Imagine this: you’re heading out for a much-anticipated beach trip or resort getaway, and a lively soundtrack is non-negotiable. The dilemma? Lugging a bulky speaker is out of the question.
This is precisely the scenario where a device like the WOW! Audio MyMove portable boutique speaker steps into the spotlight. Initially priced at over ₱12,000, it’s recently seen a significant price drop to under ₱10,000, making it an even more intriguing proposition.
We took a closer look (and listen) to see if this speaker lives up to the hype, focusing on three core pillars: portability, sound quality, and the often-overlooked aspect of local support.
WATCH: WOW! Audio MyMove review video (TechKuya / YouTube)
Support and design
Perhaps one of the most compelling arguments for the MyMove, especially for consumers in the Philippines, is its pedigree. The WOW! Audio MyMove is designed and supported by AV Solutions Corporation, the company behind well-known local brands like Grand Videoke and W-Fiesta.
This isn’t some faceless entity shipping directly from an overseas factory; AV Solutions has a tangible presence, with showrooms (including a large one along EDSA) and service centers across the Philippines. This means that should you encounter any issues, accessing after-sales support is considerably more straightforward than with many international online brands.
Impressively, the company was reportedly involved in the design process itself. This local touch is a strong selling point, offering a degree of accountability and accessibility that’s rare in this segment.
Sound quality
When it comes to audio, the MyMove aims to punch above its weight class. In side-by-side comparisons with several other portable speakers, the MyMove held its own, particularly in terms of sheer power and bass response for its size.
The sound signature of the MyMove is characterized by a wide dynamic range, delivering clarity and a surprising amount of oomph, especially from its internal subwoofer. At times, the bass is potent enough to cause the speaker’s casing to vibrate noticeably – a testament to its low-end capabilities.
However, the default sound profile leans towards the brighter side, with a pronounced higher audio range. While some may appreciate this crispness, listeners who prefer a warmer sound might find it a bit sharp. Thankfully, WOW! Audio has included physical knobs to adjust treble and bass levels, offering a welcome degree of manual equalization.
While a single MyMove unit offers limited stereo separation, it does support pairing with another MyMove speaker for a true stereo experience, similar to the feature found in the WOW! Audio Drive.
In terms of loudness, the MyMove is a strong contender. It reportedly outperforms the JBL Pulse 5 in both overall volume and bass output. While larger, more powerful speakers like (presumably) bigger WOW! Audio Jive or the JBL PartyBox series will naturally deliver more thunderous sound, the MyMove offers an impressive balance for its compact dimensions.
Portability and design
True to its name, the “MyMove” excels in portability. Measuring roughly less than a handspan and weighing just over a kilogram, it’s incredibly easy to pack into a napsack, piece of luggage, or even carry by hand.
The speaker comes with a default black handle and casing, but also offers a trendier gray version. For those who like to personalize, the handles and cases can be mixed and matched – for instance, a gray case with a black handle for a sportier look. A thoughtful design touch is the easily removable handle, useful if you prefer a cleaner look or need to loop it through an attachment point that isn’t an open hook. This adaptability also led to an interesting discovery during testing: its suitability as a car speaker, further enhancing its versatility.
Limitations
As a first-generation product, the MyMove, while impressive, has areas where future iterations could shine even brighter:
Software Support & EQ: Currently, there’s no dedicated app for the MyMove. An app would be invaluable for more granular equalization control beyond the physical knobs, allowing users to fine-tune the sound profile to their exact preferences.
Connectivity for performers: The addition of a larger line-in or dedicated microphone input would be a boon for buskers, live performers, or anyone wanting to use the MyMove as a compact PA system.
Ingress Protection (IP rating): For a speaker designed for on-the-go use, especially to beaches or resorts, an official IP rating (even a splash-resistant IP65) would provide much-needed peace of mind against accidental splashes or light rain. The current “trendy color case” offers minimal protection against the elements.
Battery Life & charging: The official claim is up to 8 hours of playtime. However, under strenuous testing conditions (max volume, max bass and treble, playing bass-heavy party tracks), the unit lasted around 4 hours. Improvements in both battery endurance and charging speed would be welcome.
Aesthetics: While the MyMove sports a classic, clean look, the market trend often leans towards more eye-catching designs, including RGB lighting. While not a performance factor, visual appeal can be a significant draw for many consumers, especially when placed side-by-side with flashier competitors in a retail environment.
Verdict
The WOW! Audio MyMove makes a compelling case for itself, particularly for users in the Philippines who value local support alongside performance. Its blend of potent sound (especially bass) in a highly portable package is its core strength. The ability to customize its look with different handles and cases is a nice bonus.
While it’s not without its limitations – the lack of an IP rating and app-based EQ, and a battery life that might fall short for all-day heavy users – its current sale price of under ₱10,000 significantly boosts its value proposition.
If you prioritize portability, surprisingly robust sound for its size, and the reassurance of local after-sales service, the WOW! Audio MyMove is definitely worth auditioning. As always, the best advice is to experience the product firsthand. Given WOW! Audio’s retail presence (e.g., in SM department stores), a personal listening test should be easy to arrange.
Is it the ultimate portable speaker? Perhaps not for every niche. But for its target audience seeking a blend of convenience, power, and local backing, the MyMove hits a lot of high notes, especially at its current discounted price.
Hit the play button to watch our WOW! Audio MyMove review video or visit TechKuya on YouTube for more tech reviews!
Grab it from Lazada: https://c.lazada.com.ph/t/c.1Cs8Eq
