The Brane X’s frequency response accuracy is okay. It features Brane’s proprietary Repel-Attract-Driver (RAD) technology in its subwoofer that uses magnets to cancel out air pressure within the speaker’s enclosure, intending to increase the bass-range output. This is evidenced by a whirring noise you hear upon powering up the speaker, indicating an air pump equalizes the internal air pressure. Speakers of this size, like the Sonos Move 2 and Ultimate Ears EPICBOOM, usually struggle to reproduce these frequencies, but the Brane punches above its weight. The dedicated sub lends boom and punch to kicks and basslines, especially when listening to club-ready tracks in genres like techno and house, and the bass will rumble whatever surface you place it on. The bass level is also adjustable with the press of a button, and you can see a comparison of the different presets here. The mid-range is well-balanced, rendering vocals and lead instruments with plenty of detail.

This speaker is let down by its veiled treble response, which lacks detail compared to competitors like the Sonos and Ultimate Ears. Lead instruments lack high-end shimmer, and sibilants, like cymbals, sound a little muted. It also results in the upper harmonics of vocals losing some presence. It’s possible to adjust the sound profile via the in-app EQ to tailor it to your liking. However, there’s no room correction feature available to adjust the sound to the unique characteristics of your space.