We previously tested both Geneva Touring L and Touring S, where the letters indicate size. Now is their little brother’s turn, a speaker that falls into the travel category. Besides the size, the features are different. The larger models also have radio, while the XS must make do with only Bluetooth. The design hails back to the travel radios of the past. The imitation leather can be obtained in red, cognac, white or black. Very sober, but not particularly practical in this context.
Somewhat surprisingly, Touring is the only test participant that is not protected from wind and weather. In other words, the speaker is better suited for a hotel room or a balcony, rather than the beach. It’s extremely easy to use. The speaker has a volume knob that also turns it on and off. That’s all. No voice assistants, stereo connections, playback controls, or apps. There is a wireless extension for the music on a mobile phone. That’s all.
It shares many of the problems with the Touring S regarding sound, but they are pronounced. Firstly, the bass is very modest, despite a passive driver on the back. It also sounds like it was latched on at the end, and it doesn’t interact with the rest of the range. Second, the amount of volume is limited and if you try to push it to max, the audio image begins to break up. However, the mid-range is warm and rich, with a clarity that is perfect for acoustic pieces and voices.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a sporty speaker that you can take along on an adventurous trip, it is best to look elsewhere. It is not particularly robust, and can neither withstand dirt nor water. Geneva Touring XS is a sober mobile table speaker that is better suited for the balcony or the desk. Also, there are no features other than playing your music wirelessly. It doesn’t play particularly loud, and the bass has problems. However, it works good for podcasts and more low-key music.