Overview

The PM0.1BD is an ultra-compact active speaker featuring a 3-inch full-range driver and a 15W+15W Class-D amplifier. It supports Bluetooth 5.0 (SBC) and analog AUX inputs and began shipping in June 2024 for personal/desktop scenarios [1][7][2].

Scientific Validity

\[\Large \text{0.5}\]

Manufacturer specs indicate a 110Hz–20kHz response and 15W+15W amplification [1][2]. The 110Hz lower limit omits much of the musically important bass range, and the single 3” driver plus small enclosure inherently constrain maximum output and low-frequency extension. Bluetooth codec support is SBC only (no aptX/LDAC) [1]. No independent lab measurements (THD, SNR, max SPL) are published yet.

Technology Level

\[\Large \text{0.4}\]

Implementation is competent but conventional: single full-range driver, entry-level Class-D power, Bluetooth 5.0 with SBC only [1][2]. The wooden enclosure and separated amplifier section are thoughtful touches, but there is little in terms of cutting-edge engineering.

Cost-Performance

\[\Large \text{0.5}\]

Comparator rule: pick the cheapest product with equal-or-better user-visible functions and performance.

Chosen comparator: M-Audio BX3BT—Bluetooth input, analog I/O, two-way design (3.5” woofer + 1” tweeter), 80Hz–22kHz response, rear-panel EQ; these are equal-or-better vs PM0.1BD [4][5].

Market prices: PM0.1BD 249.99 USD [3]; BX3BT 129 USD [5].
Resulting CP score: 0.5.

Reliability & Support

\[\Large \text{0.7}\]

Fostex has longstanding pro/consumer experience and typical warranty/service coverage. While long-term field data is not yet available for this model, the simplified architecture can reduce potential failure points [1][7].

Rationality of Design Philosophy

\[\Large \text{0.3}\]

The design prioritizes size and convenience for near-field listening. However, a single full-range driver with a 110Hz low-end limit is a clear trade-off against high-fidelity goals—important bass fundamentals (e.g., kick/bass) sit well below this cutoff [1][2]. SBC-only wireless further limits fidelity potential.

Advice

If you need a tiny, wireless-capable stereo setup on a desk, the PM0.1BD is practical. For better accuracy and bandwidth at a lower price, the M-Audio BX3BT (129 USD) is a stronger choice given its two-way design and wider response [4][5].

References

[1] Fostex, “PM0.1BD | Active Speaker” (specs: 110Hz–20kHz, SBC, etc.), https://www.fostex.jp/en/products/pm0-1bd/ (accessed 2025-08-19)
[2] Fostex, “PM0.1BD Owner’s Manual” (110Hz–20kHz, 15W+15W, features), https://www.fostex.jp/cms/wp-content/uploads/PM0.1BD_Manual_ENG.pdf (accessed 2025-08-19)
[3] B&H, “Fostex PM0.1BD Active 3 inch Monitor Speakers with Bluetooth” (price 249.99 USD), https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1842317-REG/fostex_pm0_1bd_active_7_5_speakers.html (accessed 2025-08-19)
[4] M-Audio, “BX3 BT Bluetooth® Monitors” (80Hz–22kHz, 2-way, EQ), https://www.m-audio.com/monitors-headphones/bx3bt.html (accessed 2025-08-19)
[5] B&H, “M-Audio BX3BT 3.5 inch 120W Studio Monitors (Pair)” (price 129 USD), https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1695071-REG/m_audio_bx3pairbtxus_bx3bt_3_5_120w_studio.html (accessed 2025-08-19)
[6] Sound House (JP), “Fostex PM0.1BD” (domestic reference price), https://www.soundhouse.co.jp/products/detail/item/349247/ (accessed 2025-08-19)
[7] Fostex Topics, “PM0.1BD will be released in late June.”, https://www.fostex.jp/en/20240605/18403/ (accessed 2025-08-19)

(2025.8.20)