technology
Fender ELIE 6 Bluetooth Speaker Functions as Speaker and Guitar Amplifier
Fender introduced the ELIE 6 Bluetooth speaker at CES 2026, which serves as both a portable speaker and an amplifier for guitar and other instruments. The device features a three-way driver system with 60 watts of power. An accompanying app for controls is planned but not yet available.
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Fender, a company known for guitars and amplifiers since the 1940s, debuted its first in-house Bluetooth speakers in January at CES 2026. The ELIE series, which stands for Extremely Loud Infinitely Expressive, includes the ELIE 6 and the larger ELIE 12 models.
The ELIE 6 measures about the size of a lunch box and supports playback via Bluetooth while also amplifying instruments such as guitars and vocals.
The ELIE 6 incorporates a three-way driver system, including a tweeter, midrange driver, and rubberized woofer in the base. This setup delivers 60 watts of power for audio output. The design features a minimalist industrial frame with a rotating metal handle covered in textured vinyl and a cedar block on the top panel.
The front mesh grille covers the tweeter and midrange drivers, similar to Fender's traditional guitar amplifiers. The base woofer handles low frequencies. Testing of the ELIE 6 occurred over several weeks in home and portable settings.
Fender has expanded its brand presence with a flagship store in Tokyo, which displays guitars, amplifiers, and apparel. The store's layout resembles retail experiences for consumer electronics. This development follows Fender's history with models like the Telecaster and Stratocaster guitars.
Currently, the ELIE 6 lacks a dedicated mobile app for functions such as equalizer adjustments or effects for guitar distortion and vocals. Fender has stated that an app is in development. Without the app, users access basic controls directly on the device.
The ELIE 6 joins other portable speakers that double as instrument amplifiers, including products from Marshall. Its driver layout resembles that of the Brane X speaker from Brane Audio. The device's portability suits on-the-go use for musicians and general audio listening.
