Linx B-Tube Bluetooth & MP3 speaker system

When I took the B-tube out the of the box - I didn't know what to make of it!

It looked more like a relay baton than a gadget, a short silver tube with no obvious buttons or controls and two tiny holes at the back.

This is one gadget where you do need to read the instructions - so don't throw them away!

Just one button that does everything - so once I mastered that I was on my way to speakerphone heaven.

You turn it on by pressing one end, and you turn on the Bluetooth signal by pressing and holding that same end for six seconds.

After trying this and turning the phone on and off five times - I realised you have to count to six - s-l-o-w-l-y to get the Bluetooth working.

There were clear instructions how to set your mobile to Bluetooth and make a connection with the speaker.

I tested out the wireless speaker phone function by calling my sister.

The sound quality was decent, and the microphone had a good range too. My sister could still hear me as long as I was in the same room.

So to the mini hi-fi speaker bit. The sound quality is not great, slightly tinny with no bass.

One thing to bear in mind is unplug the MP3 player once you finish using it - or else it will drain the battery.

And on the subject of charging, you have to charge the battery via the computer, as the tube came with a plug for the mains, but with a USB head on the other side.

Couldn't see the USB port on the B-Tube, did I miss something?

The only place I could imagine needing this gadget is in the car - when the stereo is broken.

But it doesn't come with a suction pad to attach it do the dashboard either.

All in all - its a good present for people who value style over function.

But please don't put it in my Christmas stocking.