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| The 8BitDo Retro Cube 2 Speaker - N Edition. |
For fans of retro gaming, the iconic gray and red design of the original Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) is more than just nostalgia—it's a piece of childhood. Celebrating the console's monumental 40th anniversary, accessory maker 8BitDo has just released a love letter to that era: the Retro Cube 2 Speaker - N Edition. First announced in October, this speaker is now officially available for purchase and has begun shipping to eager customers who secured their pre-orders.
Priced at a cool $49.99, this isn't just a simple refresh. It's a thoughtful successor to the company's 2016 Retro Cube Speaker, packing a suite of modern upgrades while wearing its classic inspiration proudly on its sleeve. Interested gamers should note that, for now, the speaker is an exclusive available directly through the 8BitDo eShop.
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| The Retro Cube 2 Speaker - N Edition has a wireless charging dock. |
A Design That Speaks to the Heart
At first glance, the connection is unmistakable. The speaker sports the classic gray and bold red accents of the NES controller. The top controls are cleverly designed to mimic the console's iconic D-pad, making volume adjustment and pairing a tactile, nostalgic experience. It’s a conversation piece that looks right at home on a desk next to a modern gaming PC or a vintage game collection.
But 8BitDo hasn’t just made a pretty face. Under the hood, the Retro Cube 2 Speaker - N Edition is a significant step up from its predecessor. It’s equipped with dual 5W speakers for robust, clear sound. For those craving an immersive audio landscape, you can pair two units together to create a genuine, separated stereo soundstage—perfect for reliving the chiptune classics of the '80s.
Cutting the Cord, But Adding Options
In a move that reflects our wireless present, the new model has done away with the traditional 3.5mm aux port. In its place is a versatile trio of connection methods:
- Bluetooth 5.3 for standard, high-quality streaming.
- A 2.4GHz wireless connection via an included USB-C adapter for a more stable, interference-free link—ideal for gaming on a PC, Switch, or other devices.
- Wired USB-C for when you want to eliminate latency entirely or conserve battery.
Speaking of gaming, a dedicated Gaming Mode drastically cuts down audio delay, so the on-screen action stays in perfect sync with the sound. There’s also a built-in microphone, turning the speaker into a handy hands-free device for calls or in-game chat.
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| The Retro Cube 2 Speaker - N Edition has D-Pad style controls at the top. |
The Crown Jewels: Wireless Charging & Marathon Battery
Perhaps the most luxurious new feature is the support for wireless charging. The package includes a custom charging dock that not only powers up the speaker but also has a dedicated slot to store the 2.4GHz USB-C adapter—no more lost dongles. Paired with the speaker's sizable 2,000mAh battery, you can go from empty to full in just a few hours on the dock.
And once it's charged, get ready to play. 8BitDo promises a staggering up to 30 hours of playback on a single charge. This is a massive leap forward from the original model's 8-hour lifespan, meaning this speaker can soundtrack your entire weekend without needing a trip back to the charging base.
Part of a Larger 40th Anniversary Celebration
The Retro Cube 2 Speaker is part of a trio of special products from 8BitDo honoring the NES. The lineup also includes a beautifully themed 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Bluetooth controller, which is already available on platforms like Amazon for $69.99. Rounding out the collection is the highly anticipated Retro 68 Keyboard - NES 40th Limited Edition, a mechanical keyboard set to launch in January 2026.
For anyone who grew up with the blinking lights of a NES, the Retro Cube 2 Speaker - N Edition is more than just an audio device. It’s a functional piece of art that bridges decades, combining the beloved aesthetic of gaming's past with the seamless, wireless convenience of today. At $49.99, it offers a uniquely nostalgic and feature-rich way to bring your game audio—and your memories—to life.
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| The 8BitDo Retro Cube 2 Speaker - N Edition is a successor to the 2016 Retro Cube Speaker. |