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| The Be@rbrick Audio x Maneki Neko Bluetooth speaker produces 360-degree sound through four drivers. |
In a fusion of collectible art, cultural iconography, and serious audio engineering, two powerhouse brands have joined forces to create something truly unique. Medicom Toy, the legendary Japanese creator of the iconic Be@rbrick, and Rinaro Isodynamics, an innovator in speaker technology, have officially unveiled the Be@rbrick Audio x Maneki Neko Bluetooth speaker (BB4L2). This limited-edition device is more than just a speaker; it's a statement piece designed for the discerning collector and audiophile alike, set to launch on January 31, 2026, with a price tag of $999.
The announcement comes with a perk for dedicated fans: subscribers to the official newsletter will gain exclusive early access to ordering, starting 24 hours before the public on January 30. For those quick enough to secure one, all shipments are slated to begin in early February 2026, making this lucky cat a potential Valentine’s season centerpiece.
From Toy Shelf to Tech Showpiece: The Design Heritage
The speaker’s form is instantly recognizable to any design or toy enthusiast. It is based directly on the Be@rbrick 400%, a figure first released by Medicom in 2001 that became a global canvas for artists and brands. Translating that beloved, minimalist bear shape into a functional audio device is a stroke of genius. The chosen variant is the auspicious Maneki Neko, or "beckoning cat," a classic Japanese symbol of good luck and prosperity.
Crafted in a stunning high-gloss metallic gold, the speaker is both a modern art object and a nod to tradition. It measures a substantial 132 x 280 x 70 mm (5.2 x 11 x 2.7 in.) and has a satisfying heft at 0.87 kg (1.91 lbs.), assuring owners of its premium build quality.
The Science of Sound Inside a Legendary Shape
Where this collaboration truly transcends from collectible to groundbreaking is in its audio performance. Rinaro Isodynamics has packed the golden form with its proprietary QUAD’360 sound technology. The interior houses two tweeters and two woofers arranged to produce genuine omnidirectional sound. This means the room-filling audio is rich and consistent no matter where you are in relation to the speaker, eliminating "sweet spots" and creating a truly immersive experience.
The speaker delivers sound across a frequency range of 90 Hz to 20 kHz with a total output of 20 watts. For those seeking a stereo setup, a key feature is the ability to pair two units together, effectively creating a wide, dynamic soundstage from two iconic lucky cats. It’s a setup designed to be as impressive to the ears as it is to the eyes.
For more detailed specifications and to prepare for the launch, you can visit the official product page.
Interactive Charm: Twisting Paws and Lasting Power
The user interaction has been thoughtfully designed to be intuitive and playful. In a clever design twist, users control music playback and adjust volume simply by twisting the speaker's front paws. This tactile interface maintains the piece's sculptural integrity without adding unsightly buttons.
Powering the experience is a 10.36 Wh battery that provides up to 6 hours of continuous playback. The speaker supports fast charging, reaching a full charge in approximately 1.5 hours. In a welcome move for longevity and sustainability in a luxury product, the company confirms that the battery is user-replaceable. Connectivity is handled by modern Bluetooth 5 technology.
The Verdict: A Collector’s Dream Meets Audiophile Grade
The Be@rbrick Audio x Maneki Neko speaker represents a pinnacle in the growing "audio toy" or designer tech segment. It successfully bridges the gap between a limited-edition art collectible—sure to appreciate in value among Be@rbrick communities—and a genuinely high-performance audio device engineered by Rinaro.
Priced at $999, it is an investment. But for the target audience, it offers a unique value proposition: unparalleled design credibility, cultural resonance, and audio technology that refuses to compromise. When it launches on January 31, 2026, expect this golden, beckoning cat to not only summon good fortune but also to attract a wave of collectors and tech enthusiasts eager to own a piece of crossover history.
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| Be@rbrick Audio x Maneki Neko Bluetooth speaker rear view. |
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| Be@rbrick Audio x Maneki Neko Bluetooth speaker. |