CMF's 'Milk Brick' Speakers Redefine Retro-Futuristic Cool

In a market saturated with generic cylinders and featureless boxes, can a portable speaker truly stand out as a piece of industrial art? CMF by Nothing, the brand known for its distinctive approach to consumer tech, confidently answers yes with its latest audio offerings. Launched on October 12, the CMF Speaker S and Speaker M aren't just devices for playing sound; they are a bold design statement, embracing a 'milk brick' aesthetic that evokes a delightful sense of retro-futurism while packing thoroughly modern capabilities.

These two new Bluetooth speakers, priced at $59 for the Speaker S and $109 for the Speaker M, immediately grab attention with their unconventional silhouette. Far from the typical utilitarian black boxes, CMF's creations appear playful and intentional, designed to be seen as much as heard. With integrated handles and a prominent, often orange, volume knob, they challenge the prevailing notion that audio hardware must prioritize discreetness over personality, or that modern tech must eschew the charms of the past.

A Bold Statement in a Sea of Sameness

What truly elevates the CMF Speaker S and M beyond mere audio devices is their commitment to user interaction and customization. The 'milk brick' form factor, available in white, dark gray, orange, and turquoise, isn't just for show; it's a canvas. CMF has engineered these speakers with interchangeable front panels and volume knobs, allowing users to swap colors and textures to match their mood or environment. This modularity takes a significant step further with CMF’s pledge to release official 3D design files, empowering enthusiasts to 3D print their own custom accessories. This approach transforms the speaker from a static product into a dynamic, user-modifiable object, fostering a deeper connection between the device and its owner.

Beyond their striking looks, these speakers are built for real-world use. Both models boast an IP68 certification, ensuring robust protection against dust and the ability to withstand prolonged immersion in water. This makes them ideal companions for outdoor adventures or poolside relaxation. Despite their distinctive designs, CMF has maintained portability; the Speaker S weighs a mere 334 grams, while the larger Speaker M comes in at 604 grams. Both promise an impressive 18 hours of battery life at 50% volume with the Ultra Bass mode engaged, powered by a 2,600 mAh battery in the Speaker S and a 4,900 mAh battery in the Speaker M.

Connectivity and Sound: Modern Capabilities for the Modern Listener

Technologically, CMF leaves little to be desired. Both speakers feature Bluetooth 6.0 with LE Audio and Auracast compatibility, enabling advanced features like multi-device connections via Bluetooth Multipoint and effortless stereo pairing (with two identical models). The integration of Auracast further allows for a 'Party Mode,' synchronizing audio across an unlimited number of compatible speakers, even from different manufacturers, creating an expansive soundscape for any gathering. For those seeking minimal latency, the USB-C port doubles as a lossless audio interface.

Audio performance is tailored to each model’s purpose. The Speaker S, the more compact option, houses a 45mm full-range driver paired with two passive radiators, delivering 10W RMS within a frequency range of 70Hz to 20kHz. The Speaker M, designed for a more robust sound, features a 70mm woofer and a 16mm tweeter, providing a combined 35W RMS and extending the bass response down to 60Hz. Both models offer an Ultra Bass mode and can be fine-tuned using the Nothing X application, which provides various EQ presets and customization options. With these offerings, CMF by Nothing demonstrates that truly compelling design can indeed coexist with advanced functionality and user empowerment, setting a new standard for portable audio.