Bose Lifestyle Ultra: Smart Audio's New Contender

Bose's new Lifestyle Collection, including the Lifestyle Ultra Speaker, shifts towards an open ecosystem using Google Cast and Apple AirPlay. This approach allows seamless integration with existing Google Cast-capable wireless speakers, a departure from Bose's proprietary app dependence.

The Lifestyle Ultra Speaker, priced at $299, is a compact bookshelf speaker measuring 7.3 by 4.8 by 6.6 inches. It features a height driver utilizing "direct reflecting" technology for enhanced presence, potentially serving as an Atmos channel when paired with the Ultra Soundbar.

Setup through the Bose app is straightforward, though software updates can take approximately 10 minutes per speaker. The speaker supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a 3.5mm auxiliary input, but it requires AC power, precluding portable use.

Sound quality is a strong point, with the Ultra Speaker offering a tighter, punchier bass than the Sonos Era 100, and a wider soundstage due to its height driver. While it streams CD-quality audio (16-bit/44.1kHz), it doesn't natively support Hi-Res 24-bit/192kHz audio at launch.

As a standalone unit, it fills smaller rooms effectively, but a stereo pair is highly recommended for a significantly more impressive sound experience, offering true stereo separation. This makes it a compelling alternative to the Sonos Era 100, despite being more expensive.