Bluesound Pulse Flex Revamp: A Decade Waited, Yet Old Sound at a New Price

After 10 years, Bluesound’s Pulse Flex returns with familiar sound, but its price tag might leave fans scratching their heads.

A Long-Awaited Comeback That Feels Like Déjà Vu

If you're anything like me, you remember the excitement when Bluesound first dropped the Bluesound Pulse Flex wireless speaker back in 2015. It was a compact, punchy little wireless speaker that promised big things. Fast forward a decade, and Bluesound has decided it's time for a refresh. But rather than a revolutionary leap forward, the updated Pulse Flex feels more like a polite nod to the past than a bold step into the future.

The original Pulse Flex was praised for its energetic bass and vibrant character, earning a solid four-star rating at the time. Yet, it never quite overtook stronger rivals like the Audio Pro Addon C10. So, what does the new Pulse Flex bring to the party?

The updated Bluesound Pulse Flex showcases a sleek, minimalist design with rounded edges.

Tech Specs That Sound Good on Paper

Bluesound claims the update’s mission was simple: to "make the signature sound more accessible without sacrificing detail and quality." The new Pulse Flex packs a specially designed 50W SmartDSP amplifier, a 10-centimeter woofer, and a 19-millimeter tweeter. It supports high-resolution audio up to 24-bit/192kHz, including DSD256 and MQA files—features that audiophiles will appreciate.

Connectivity hasn’t been left out either. With dual-band Wi-Fi, Gigabit Ethernet, AirPlay 2, and Bluetooth featuring aptX HD, you can stream from almost any device or service. The BluOS app runs the show, managing multi-room systems and streaming from giants like Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect.

What’s nice is the addition of USB-C for wired connection and a combined optical/analog input, broadening your setup options. For home theater buffs, the Pulse Flex can function as a rear speaker paired with other Bluesound equipment.

Design and Usability: Classic with a Touch of Elegance

Bluesound hasn’t reinvented the wheel with the Pulse Flex’s design—instead, it embraces a minimalist aesthetic with soft, rounded edges. It comes in three tasteful finishes: Black Charcoal, White Pebble Grey, and White Tan. For customization enthusiasts, there’s an optional wall mount, adjustable stand, and swap-out fabric grilles to match your space’s vibe.

This flexibility is thoughtful, especially for those who want the speaker to blend in or stand out subtly without screaming “tech gadget.”

Price Point: Old Tricks, New Sticker Shock

Here’s where things get tricky. The refreshed Pulse Flex is slated to drop on December 16 at a price of £279 (roughly $350). To put it bluntly: that’s a steep tag for what is, at its core, an updated version of a speaker that first hit shelves ten years ago.

Back then, the Pulse Flex was already facing stiff competition and never quite reached the top of its class. Now, with a price bump but little in the way of groundbreaking upgrades, it feels like Bluesound is banking more on brand loyalty than innovation.

The Verdict: Familiar Sound, Questionable Value

To sum it up, the Bluesound Pulse Flex wireless speaker update is a mixed bag. While it offers solid specs and retains the brand’s signature sound quality, it doesn’t quite push boundaries or redefine what wireless speakers can do in 2025.

As a fan who’s followed Bluesound’s journey, I can’t help but feel a bit underwhelmed. Ten years is a long time to wait for a refresh, and it’s disappointing that the new Flex doesn’t offer something truly fresh—especially for the price.

"Bluesound Pulse Flex rips Sonos: smart streaming and cool design."

(Original Article Highlight)

FAQ

• How does the updated Pulse Flex compare to the original?
  The new model features a 50W SmartDSP amplifier and improved support for high-res audio formats, but the overall sound signature remains similar to the original.
• What streaming services are supported?
  Thanks to BluOS, the Pulse Flex supports popular platforms like Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, and also works with AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth aptX HD.
• Can the Pulse Flex be used for home theater setups?
  Yes, it can serve as a rear channel speaker when paired with other Bluesound products, enhancing your surround sound experience.
• What color options are available?
  The speaker comes in Black Charcoal, White Pebble Grey, and White Tan finishes.
• Is the price justified for the updates?
  Given it’s an update of a decade-old model without major innovations, many may find the £279/$350 price tag a bit steep.

If you’re nostalgic about the Pulse Flex or looking to spruce up your audio space with something familiar yet refined, consider shopping for your favorite album cover posters to complement your setup. Check out our collection at Architeg Prints for stylish, music-inspired art that pairs perfectly with your sound system.