Fender, the legendary name synonymous with electric guitars and amplifiers for 80 years, is expanding into the consumer audio space with the launch of Fender Audio. Making its CES debut, the brand introduces the ELIE series portable Bluetooth speakers (ELIE 6 and ELIE 12) and the MIX over-ear wireless headphones—a sophisticated lineup blending iconic heritage with modern, high-performance design.
Note: While referred to in some previews as the “Elite” series, the official naming is ELIE (standing for Extremely Loud Infinitely Expressive), reflecting the bold, expressive sound Fender aims to deliver.
These products mark Fender Audio’s first serious foray into wireless personal audio, operated under license by Riffsound Pte. Ltd., and target discerning listeners who demand versatility, longevity, and premium sound without compromise.
ELIE Portable Speakers: Multi-Source Versatility Meets Powerful Sound
The ELIE lineup redefines portable audio with innovative multi-input mixing—allowing up to four simultaneous audio sources (Bluetooth, wired XLR/¼-inch combo jack for instruments/mics, and two proprietary low-latency wireless channels via accessories). This makes them ideal for impromptu jam sessions, parties, or layered playback.
- ELIE 6 ($299.99): Compact at 7.7 inches tall, with a subwoofer, full-range driver, and tweeter delivering 60W output. Up to 18 hours battery life; quick-charge for 90 minutes in 15 minutes.
- ELIE 12 ($399.99): Wider and more powerful at 120W, doubling the drivers (two subs, two full-range, two tweeters) with added bass/treble controls. Up to 15 hours battery life.
Both models feature Waves SoC processing for cleaner, louder sound; stereo pairing; multi-unit sync (up to 100 speakers); and a sleek, monolithic design in Olympic White or Skyscraper Black. They support hi-res audio (up to 24-bit/48kHz) and include a 3.5mm line-out.
Competing with premium portables like JBL Xtreme, Brane X, and Marshall models, the ELIE series stands out for musician-friendly inputs and expansive scalability.
MIX Wireless Headphones: Modular Design and Exceptional Battery Life
The MIX over-ear headphones ($299.99) emphasize customization and endurance. Modular components allow swapping ear cups and headbands for personalized style, while a user-replaceable battery promotes sustainability.
Key highlights:
- 40mm graphene drivers for balanced, high-fidelity sound
- Hybrid active noise cancellation (ANC)
- Up to 100 hours playback (ANC off) or 52 hours (ANC on)—class-leading
- Bluetooth 5.3 with SBC/AAC; included USB-C transmitter for lossless LHDC, low-latency LC3, and Auracast
- Wired mode support
Also available in Olympic White or Skyscraper Black, the MIX challenges Sony WH-1000XM series and Bose on battery life while offering unique modularity.
A Premium Entry Rooted in Heritage
Fender Audio’s debut aligns with the company’s 80th anniversary, bringing amp-inspired clarity and power to everyday listening. The clean, sculptural aesthetics and thoughtful features—like phantom power on the XLR input and replaceable parts—appeal to high-end enthusiasts seeking gear that blends form, function, and longevity.
All products will be demonstrated at CES 2026 (January 6–9, Las Vegas) and available shortly after launch.
In a crowded market, Fender Audio distinguishes itself with pro-grade versatility and enduring design—proving the iconic brand’s sound can rock beyond the stage.
