Amazon introduced its newest Echo smart speakers at a gathering in New York City, where Mashable was able to test them. The new Echo Studio and Echo Dot Max are tailored for Alexa+, Amazon’s AI-boosted version of Alexa, and can be pre-ordered ahead of their official launch on October 29.

The Echo Studio is priced at $219.99, whereas the Echo Dot Max is available for $99.99.

Introducing the Echo Studio and Echo Dot Max: What’s different?

The speakers are heavier than anticipated, likely due to enhanced drivers and woofers in their round design. Both boast a revamped mesh cover made from 3D-printed fabric that Amazon asserts won’t interfere acoustically. They promise larger, richer audio and improved processing thanks to new custom chips, the AZ3 and AZ3 Pro. A novel feature, Omnisense, enables the speakers to modify sound according to the environment and synchronize for a surround sound experience.

Amazon asserts that the Echo Studio can elevate TV audio, featuring three full-range drivers, a tailored woofer for bass, and providing spatial audio alongside Dolby Atmos. The Echo Dot Max is said to deliver three times the bass performance of existing Dot speakers.

While these features seem impressive, the ultimate evaluation will occur during in-home usage. The design bears a resemblance to the Death Star, particularly in Glacier White, evoking space warships while successfully sidestepping Disney’s legal concerns. Amazon, recognized for Star Wars-themed Echo stands, might adopt this aesthetic for future accessories.

The speakers also include LED lights, which are not seen in event images. Pre-order the latest speakers on Amazon, potentially available during the forthcoming Prime Big Deal Days. They are anticipated to feature in numerous Christmas Gift Guides in 2025, as the Echo Dot and Echo Studio range hasn’t been updated in years.