Philips has been strengthening its portfolio of affordable audio gear, and the latest entrant, the Philips TAS2400 Bluetooth speaker, aims to deliver core performance without breaking the bank. Priced at an attractive ₹1,999 on Amazon, it boasts a 32W RMS power output, claiming to be the highest in this segment. With promises of splash resistance and versatile connectivity, we put it through its paces to see if it stands up to daily indoor and outdoor demands.
Design and Build: Rugged and Practical
Unboxing the Philips TAS2400 reveals a no-nonsense, functional design built for durability. The speaker employs a robust construction using polycarbonate and rubber, giving it a solid feel. The aesthetic is enhanced by a stylish fabric mesh on both sides. A long rubber foot at the base ensures the speaker stays firmly in place during use.
The controls feature rubberised buttons, and ports for connectivity, including the power switch, are neatly tucked under a protective rubber flap. A practical addition is the nylon carrying loop, perfect for hanging the speaker or attaching it to a backpack. Crucially, it carries an IPX4 rating, meaning it can withstand splashes of water, making it suitable for poolside gatherings or outdoor camping without worry about minor spills or rain.
Sound Performance: Loud and Clear, But Light on Bass
The headline feature is undoubtedly the 32W RMS output, and it makes a noticeable difference compared to other speakers in this price range. The sound is impressively loud, capable of filling a living room or an open balcony with ease. Audio remains clear even at maximum volume, with sound projecting evenly from both sides of the speaker.
However, the bass response is relatively subdued. You can only truly sense it when you are in close proximity to the unit. This appears to be a deliberate tuning choice by Philips, as heavier bass might have distorted the audio at high volumes. Consequently, the TAS2400 shines with genres like Bollywood, pop, and rock that are not excessively bass-heavy.
Features, Battery Life, and Verdict
On the connectivity front, Philips has kept things practical. The speaker supports Bluetooth 5.3 with a reliable range of about 10 metres, ideal for use in apartments or small offices. It also features a built-in microphone for handling voice calls. For offline playback, it supports TF card and USB input, though it notably omits a 3.5mm aux port.
Powering the device is a 2400mAh battery that promises up to 10 hours of playback. Real-world battery life will vary with volume levels, and at peak output, you might not get a full day's use. Charging is done via a USB Type-C port, but a full charge takes approximately 5 hours, making it an overnight task.
Final Thoughts
The Philips TAS2400 positions itself as a budget portable speaker that prioritises loud, clear sound and durability over flashy extras like RGB lighting or app controls. If your primary need is a reliable speaker that can deliver powerful audio for indoor settings and occasional outdoor use, and your budget is strictly around ₹2,000, the TAS2400 is a compelling contender. It's not for bass enthusiasts, but for most everyday music listening, it gets the job done effectively.
