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Product Reviews

JBL PartyBox 1000 Review

If you are looking for a party speaker that is so loud that will have the police knocking at your door, then the JBL Party Box 1000 is what you need. This all in one party speaker comes with light effects, plus it includes DJ controls and effects that would make your party be the talk of the block.

This review explores in detail the different features of this speaker so that you decide if it’s a good match for you or not, plus a few tips so that you get the most out of your speaker. Let’s dive in.

Output Power and Sound Quality

First, let’s describe what’s under the hood. This speaker comes with one polymer diaphragm compression driver, two 7″ mid-range speaker, and one 12″ down-firing subwoofer. All of these components can deliver a maximum of 1100W of power.

1100W is the maximum peak power that the speaker can provide for a short period, we need to know the RMS power, which is the continuous power it can deliver. The manufacturer doesn’t say anywhere what is the RMS power of this system, but we can calculate it.

Calculating it from the maximum peak power, the RMS power of the PartyBox 1000 comes close to 800W RMS, which is an impressive wattage for a speaker this size, and very loud indeed.

The frequency response is 30Hz–20kHz, which means that the JBL PartyBox 1000 can deliver intense sounds thanks to its subwoofer, sharp mid-tones, and clear, crisp highs. This speaker uses a 3-way design because it has dedicated speakers for reproducing low, mid, and high frequencies.

In the control panel, there is a “Bass Boost” button that will expand the bass so that you get the extra low-frequency oomph. Just remember that as you increase the volume, the system automatically decreases the bass so that the system doesn’t distort, and the music sounds clean and bright.

By locating this speaker at the right spot, it can disperse the sound evenly to all your guests so that the party never stops.

The PartyBox 1000 delivers high-def JBL’s signature sound at loud levels that will make you fall in love with it when you hear it, and keep your party going strong.

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JBL PartyBox 1000 Sound Test

Design Quality and Ruggedness

The JBL PartyBox 1000 it’s made from black polypropylene material, using injection molding techniques designed to have an optimized acoustic resonance enclosure.

Polypropylene is a robust, rugged plastic perfect for this type of speaker because its resistant to scratches while hauling the speaker.

It comes with a conveniently positioned handle in the back of the cabinet for easy moving. It also has two concealed wheels conveniently located to haul the speaker around.

The Party Box 1000 is heavy, weighing 76.5 pounds / 34.7 kg, good thing it has wheels to carry it around. It’s not a portable device like other Bluetooth speakers. Still, this speaker is aimed at bigger parties where higher volume levels are required.

It doesn’t have batteries, which means that you need to plug it into an AC outlet. You can’t take it anywhere if there is no AC power, making it inconvenient for some people.

It is not water-resistant, so it’s not recommended for wet outdoors. Outdoor Bluetooth speakers need to be designed waterproof, or at least water-resistant.

This speaker is perfect for parties where you need high volume levels plus the versatility of having DJ functionalities from one device. This system is ideal for the amateur DJ.

Features

The JBL Party Box 1000 comes with a full panel lighting effect so that you have a captivating light show in your party while music is playing. It will keep your crowd engaged, providing an impressive visual experience.

It includes an “Air Gesture Wristband” that controls the light show and sound effects. By moving the hand where you have the wristband in specific gestures, the system detects and changes the light patterns, and plays sound effects.

For Example, clap two times, and the speaker plays the first pre-programmed sound effect. By shaking your hands four times, it plays the second sound effect. Rotating your hand switches the light patterns. The wristband can be wirelessly paired, and it works up to 49ft / 15m from the speaker.

Another great feature of this party speaker is the included DJ Pad. This DJ launchpad allows you to play instruments like drums, keyboard, or piano live and also record loops so that they playback. All of these features make this speaker a perfect choice for an amateur DJ.

The speaker comes with two independent inputs, one for microphone and other for guitar. It allows you to use the system as a karaoke machine to sing-along tracks, or connect a guitar or any other pluggable instrument to play along.

Next to the mic and guitar inputs, there is a USB connector to plug in your thumb drive. You can pre-program your party event with your favorite playlist and plug your flash drive and enjoy the music. It supports USB file system FAT16 and FAT32 and it can play .mp3, .wma, .wav format files.

You can easily pair two PartyBox speakers for a perfect stereo sound either wirelessly or wired. For wireless pairing up to 33ft / 10m, it uses the TWS (True Wireless Stereo) capability using a Bluetooth connection between the two speakers for pairing. For wired pairing, use the RCA out plug located at the back of the speaker.

Need to charge your phone or iPad? Use the USB port located at the back to charging your devices. The USB delivers 5V at 2.1amps, perfect for charging any USB capable device.

If you want to connect a device that isn’t Bluetooth capable such as an MP3 player, use a 3.5mm audio cable to connect it to the AUX IN. The cable is not included.

Pair up to three Bluetooth devices to play music and control the device up to 125 ft / 38 m.   

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Pros

  • Very Loud speaker specially designed for home or club parties.
  • Your audience will enjoy the captivating light show making the party also a remarkable visual experience.
  • It comes with DJ touchpads perfect for adding sound effects to the music that is playing.
  • You can record loops on the fly to playback with your music.
  • You can connect a microphone for speaking, singing, karaoke. Also, connect a guitar or any pluggable instrument to play along.
  • Connect your thumb drive to play a pre-programmed party playlist.

Cons

  • Heavy to move around, but the good thing is that it comes with handles and convenient wheels to haul it around.
  • Not battery powered, meaning that to work, you need to plug to an AC outlet.
  • As volume increases to more than 75%, the system suppresses the bass to avoid distortion, meaning that at higher volumes, music will sound flat.
  • Being that this speaker is aimed for house parties and amateur DJs, it should have come with music mixing capabilities, which is a must for DJs.
  • It’s on the pricy side for a speaker this size. You can easily get a PA system for the same amount of money.
  • Not recommended for people who live in apartments or have close neighbors, by playing this speaker at high volumes you will get in trouble, they might call the police on you — just a heads up.
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Want a More Affordable Option? Get the PartyBox 710

In 2021, JBL introduced the PartyBox 710, which is a spin-off of the PartyBox 1000 but with fewer features making it more affordable.

The PartyBox 710 delivers a whopping 800W RMS, and with its built-in lights, you can get the party started in no time. Plus, enjoy a full-range of sound thanks to its extra deep bass.

Take it to your next pool party, and don’t worry about water splashes. This is because it comes with an IPX4 splash-proof enclosure.  

Control the speaker via Bluetooth connectivity and the accompanying App. What’s more, it’s easy to take everywhere thanks to its large Handle and Built-in Wheels.

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Conclusion

The JBL PartyBox 1000 is a speaker designed specifically for parties, especially loud ones. It comes with everything you need to throw the perfect party. It delivers clear, crisp highs, toned mids, and punchy lows thanks to its 3-way speaker design. 

It delivers a maximum of 1100W peak (800W RMS), which is more than enough to get you in trouble but to throw the party of the year.

If the PartyBox 1000 is outside your budget, you can also go with the PartyBox 710, which delivers the same RMS power but offers fewer features, making it an excellent option if you want the loudness but don’t really care about the extra features.

I hope that this review helps you decide if this speaker works for you or not. If you have any questions about this or any other post, please leave a comment in the section below or use the contact us form, I will get back to you within a few days. Thank you for reading my blog.

Best Vocal Mic for Live Performance

Live performance is the most authentic way of bringing your music to your audience, and the live experience depends as much on your audio equipment as it does your skills and talent.

When it comes to live vocals, you can either chose a dynamic or condenser microphone and choosing the proper mic is crucial. Your vocals must come through a mic with the power to deliver true sound in order to reflect the correct stage presence.

Choosing the best vocal mic for live performance depends largely on personal preference, though your music genre, budget, vocal style, and sound system are all factors. This article contains our review of what we feel are the six best dynamic microphones on the market today.

Of course, finding the best mic for live vocals also requires a core understanding of the technology behind the design. So, we have included some tips at the end of the article for choosing the best mic for stage performances, as well.

The Top 6 Dynamic Microphones in the market today are:

  1. Shure SM58
  2. Audix OM5
  3. Shure BETA 58A
  4. Sennheiser e935
  5. Audio-Technica AE6100
  6. Sennheiser e945

Let’s take a closer look at each one of them in detail.

Shure SM58

The SM series is an industry-standard and an affordable price to boot. The SM58 is designed to be a vocal microphone with its cardioid polar pattern. This popular Shure model is an upgrade to Shure’s 565SD mic and improves just about all its features.

Design and Features

This Shure handheld mic has a classic design with the retro stick with a pop filter. The enamel panel and steel mesh grille are equally classic, going back to the 1960s. The ball grille protects the cartridge and keeps you from getting too close. It also filters out undesirable noises.

This mic is available in four different package variations.

  • One is the Shure SM58-LC, which comes with no cable.
  • Next is the Shure SM58-CN, which comes with an XLR cable.
  • The Shure SM58S has an On/Off switch, and
  • The Shure SM58-X2u, which comes with an XLR and a USB signal adapter.

Additional specifications include a frequency response for this model that ranges from 50Hz up to 15000Hz. The impedance rates at 150Ω (300Ω actual), and the sensitive range fall between –54.5 dBV/Pa (1.85 mV)

How Does It Sound?

The sound on this dynamic mic is excellent for vocal and speech use. The cardioid polar pattern helps stop unwanted noises from being picked up on stage.

The SM58 offers an exceptionally flat response from 100Hz to 4kHz making it perfect for vocals. The mic lacks to provide high-frequency gain. The response between 10kHz to 14kHz has a 0dB gain, and there is only about 2dB gain at 15kHz.

What this means in sound terms is that it would need to be equalized heavily for higher frequency gains. It sounds like retro microphones, remember it was introduced back in 1966.

If you want a crisp, bright sound, this mic is not for you, but if warm, natural soothing sound is what you are looking for, then this is the perfect mic for you.

Pros

Hands down, the best features of the Shure SM58 is the clarity and durability. You can knock this mic around onstage and still expect it to deliver an outstanding sound every time.

  • It has a robust dynamic range that delivers clear vocals.
  • And it’s rugged enough to take a beating during the most raucous of stage shows.
  • The quality and durability also come at a fair price, which is largely why the Shure is an industry-standard.
  • In addition, it has a unique pneumatic shock-mount system that further cuts handling noise. For these reasons, this mic is an excellent choice for live artists in particular. Though, it’s certainly suitable for recording speech and vocals.

Cons

  • Most customer reviews rave about the sound quality, though a few take issue with it when it comes to recording vocals.
  • Other users recommend purchasing the version without the On-Off switch since it’s too easy to forget to flip the switch before walking onstage. Whoever runs your soundboard won’t have to troubleshoot a turned-off mic.

I have personally used the SM58 for miking lead and backup singers. Even though this is one of the lesser expensive models in Shure’s SM line, it’s nonetheless a good choice for professional vocalists. This model has stood up to performers of all genres and venues, making it a must-have for singers.

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Audix OM5

The OM5 is a handheld hyper-cardioid condenser microphone that is gaining popularity as an excellent vocal mic. Audix designed this mic for both live lead vocals as well as background vocals. To accomplish this, the mic is natural and true in its representation of your voice.

Design and Features

The OM-5 has a hyper-cardioid pattern, which makes it above board when it comes to off-axis rejection (when compared to its standard cardioid competitors). With this mic, you experience fantastic isolation.

  • The OM5 has a frequency response range of 48 Hz to 19,000 Hz and certainly lives up to Audix’s intended reputation as an industry leader.
  • In addition, the low mass diaphragm yields a higher output combined with an extremely fast transient response.
  • It’s capable of handling sound pressure levels up to 144 dB.
  • As required of a live mic, this model is durable with a touch of design. The body is tapered and has a smooth, sleek finish.

How Does It Sound?

The sound of the Audix OM-5 is outstanding for live sound. Firstly, between 100Hz and 40Hz there is a -10dB bass roll-off which greatly helps reduce the proximity effect.

A slight gain of 2.5bB is present between 100Hz and 500Hz which delivers clear low-midrange frequencies.

The magic happens between 4kHz and 12kHz. The frequency response has a gain of 5dB on average with a 7dB at 12kHz.

This means that this mic can deliver a very accurate sound that is crystal clear at high frequencies, with a slight mid-range boost.

Because of the well-designed polar pattern, which Audix mics are known for, your result is minimal feedback from any monitors that are close to the front of the performance area. The mic delivers a true, undistorted sound that enhances both male and female vocals.

Pros

In addition to the quality sound, the OM5 is exceptionally natural, both in the hand as well as in performance. The newer design is engineered for greater precision in the pickup pattern, as well as the frequency response.

If you’re looking for a true sound for a sound system without phantom power, which is required for condenser mics, the OM5 is your best choice. It won’t give you an unwanted bass-boost or proximity effect. Your trebles will sail through without feedback or ringing.

Also, this mic is sturdy and holds up performance after performance.

Cons

If you are a fan of Audix mics, then you’ll no doubt be pleased with the OM5. For users who are long-time users of the Shure SM58, however, you may have difficulty adjusting.

The SM58 is touted for its midrange push, while the Audix OM-5 is designed for better sound detail. It all comes down to sound taste at the end.

All in all, the OM5 is a formidable model from Audix, a company with a long-standing reputation for quality microphones. For the money, you get a mic that delivers clear sound on stage with little to no feedback. Any drawbacks are more due to user preference than they are to flaws in the design.

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Shure BETA 58A

The Beta 58A is a more expensive version of the SM58. While the SM58 is one of the best dynamic microphones ever manufactured, the Beta 58A deserves its own discussion.

While the SM58 remains a favorite, vocalists are being won over by the 58A, replacing its predecessor as the best vocal mic for live performance.

Design and Features

Think of the Beta 58A as a more sophisticated evolution of the notable Shure SM58.

  • Like its predecessor, the Beta has a sleek look with its all-metal chassis and steel mesh grille.
  • Shure took some time to make this new grille even more rugged. It’s more resistant to dents and other damage. The result is a robust microphone that keeps up with the SM58.
  • The grille features a signature blue strip where its two hemispheres meet.
  • Another major upgrade is the improved super-cardioid polar pattern as compared to the standard cardioid on the SM58. This upgrade gives the mic more focus and reduces feedback while you’re on stage
  • Next, the Beta has a far more advanced pneumatic suspension system, which houses the capsule. It better isolates the diaphragm, creating a quieter mic than its cousin, the SM58.
  • Finally, the Beta 58A has a stronger Neodymium magnet, which raises the output and significantly boosts sensitivity.

How Does It Sound?

Logically, the upgraded hardware does more than making a rugged mic. It boosts the performance of the mic as well as enhances the sound quality. The mic delivers clarity as well as a bright midrange.

This microphone was tailored to provide a condenser like sound while using a dynamic microphone topology. Of course, a condenser microphone would be much crispier at high frequencies, but this mic delivers a much brighter sound than regular dynamic mics thanks to its very sensitive membrane.

From 300Hz down to 50Hz there is a -10dB bass roll-off which controls the proximity effect. The mid and high frequencies have consistent gains between 1-5dB, delivering a crisp and clear sound, excellent for soloist singers.  

The stronger Neodymium magnet boosts sensitivity and output level response, especially the upper end of the mic’s range.

Pros

Perhaps the most significant feature of this mic is the superior sound. As legendary as the SM58 is, it can’t compete with the design of the Beta. With this mic, you get a powerful, crystal clear sound with ample gain.

Another plus is that Shure is a proven brand, so you are guaranteed dependability and quality with any model microphone bearing the name.

The super-cardioid pattern does a great job of reducing extraneous noise from surrounding instruments or other performers. While a less-experienced vocalist may have trouble staying within the pickup pattern, a more seasoned one will be able to hold the mic properly. He or she will experience solid and consistent sound.

Cons

In some cases depending on the voice, especially males with low pitched voices, the sound needs to be tweaked a bit at lower frequencies to adjust the proximity effect. Then, the mic is spot on for both females as well as male vocalists.

This mic is another mic that I have used for many years with awesome results. Overall, the Beta 58A is a formidable successor to its big brother, the SM58. All the design upgrades lead to smoother performance. Because of all the redesign, the price is higher than the popular and affordable SM58. Though, I think it’s worth the investment.

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Sennheiser e935

The Sennheiser e935 is a reliable dynamic microphone at an affordable price. In addition, it’s a good-looking microphone with a striking back chassis and dark blue mesh grille.

The design is simple, yet the look is stylish. Hundreds of well-known vocalists use Sennheiser mics and attest that the e935 is one of the best vocal mics for live performance. Here’s why.

Design and Features

True to the Sennheiser name, this mic contains standard features constructed and designed with quality in mind.

  • The e935 feels well-balanced and rugged. Sennheiser backs this claim with a 10-year warranty. The e936 contains durable hardware.
  • It’s solidly constructed with a shock-mounted capsule, a Neodymium ferrous magnet, and a hum-compensating coil. This combination creates a consistently noiseless performance.
  • The microphone comes with a stand clip mount and a zippered carry case.
  • The frequency response range is 40Hz to 18kHz, and the sensitivity comes in at -51dB. This mic has an output impedance of 350 ohms.

How Does It Sound?

The e935 is designed with a standard cardioid polar pattern that keeps the mic focused on your voice while on stage. The cardioid pickup pattern provides more than adequate insulation from other on-stage signals.

The frequency response on the e935 is practically flat between 200Hz and 2kHz. From 2kHz to 12kHz there is a gain of about 5dB. Translating this to simple English, basically, the microphone provides you with clear warm sound and just slight brightness, but not too overpowering.

With the especially smooth response range, you have room to equalize the sound to your likings. Further, the sound is balanced through the upper end. It won’t top out on you as other microphones do. Rather, it reaches its upper limit gradually which is excellent for female or male vocalists with a bright and strong voice.

While it can handle recording instruments, this mic is best used for vocals. You’ll have enough power to rise above the mix, but not so much that you’re pushing the limits of the mic’s capabilities.

Due to the internal shock mount and humbucking coil, the e935 is quiet, with low handling noise. It also has consistent off-axis rejection.

Pros

The Sennheiser mic has several advantages over the competition.

  • We concur with many of the customer reviews that state the e935 has excellent tone and clarity.
  • Along with that are the superior frequency response and balanced gain pattern.
  • It’s comfortable in your hand, and it visually attractive as well with the metallic blue windscreen.

Cons

While most reviewers have raved over this Sennheiser mic for live vocals, there are a few drawbacks.

  • There have been some complaints that the mic performs better on a stand rather than in the hand due to its sensitivity. While it’s got excellent dynamics, your mouth may need to remain at a fixed distance from the mic, making a stationary stand the better option.
  • Others have stated that they need to retune the mic to reduce pops and balance the sound. Adjusting the EQ and volume settings, along with adjusting the proximity of the singer’s mouth to the mic, solves the problem.
  • Some users report that the sound is tinny and thin, we have found that it has to do with the equalization settings. Depending on your speaker system and the venue where you are performing, some minor EQ adjustments may be necessary. By doing so, the sound is crisp and balanced.

Having used this mic for several years in my church I can say that overall, the e935 holds its own and is another quality product offered by Sennheiser. For the price, it’s a formidable mic that’s well suited for live vocals. It looks as good as it performs, making it a great choice for live singing or speaking.

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Audio-Technica AE6100

The Audio-Technica AE6100 brings studio-like features to live performance. With its unmatched sound quality, it’s like taking the best sonic characteristics of the SM58 and combining it with the crisp detailed sound of the Audix OM-5.

Plus it features an open-cell foam pop filter that’s built right in. This added feature makes this dynamic mic more expensive than other popular models, though you do get what you pay for.

If you have a need for a stage-ready mic, the AE6100 may be the best dynamic mic you can find. It’s one of the best live performance microphones.

Design and Features

The built-in pop filter pairs well with the AE6100’s hyper-cardioid polar pattern and anti-shock engineering.

  • The pop filter design consists of a steel outer grille configuration that’s lined with steel mesh against a layer of open-cell foam. At the top of this configuration is a foam disk that adds an additional layer of pop filtering.
  • It touts one of the best rates for feedback rejection. In addition, its anti-shock features cut handling noise significantly.
  • This model mic has a frequency response that ranges from 60Hz-15kHz.
  • And, the impedance comes in at 250 ohms.
  • Combined, these features enable the mic to deliver sound with high clarity, low feedback, and all with a quiet operation for live vocals as well as recorded vocals. In other words, this stage mic delivers studio-quality sound onstage.

From an aesthetic standpoint, the mic’s design is less flashy than others on the market. The look is plain. There’s no fancy blue or another color embellishment to the grille. What you get are ruggedness and superior sound quality.

How Does It Sound?

The AE6100 delivers consistently clean articulation and high-output sound on stage every time. Audio-Technica designed the polar pattern specifically for a superior on-axis response.

The AE6100 represents the full warmth and richness of your voice. Further, it filters out surrounding noise with precision, allowing you to deliver only your vocals.

On the more technical side, the response of this mic is exceptional. As most high-quality dynamic microphones, it has a -10dB bass roll-off between 50Hz and 150Hz for keeping the proximity effect in check.  

In addition, it features a linear flat response between 250Hz and 1kHz, with a subtle boost between 1kHz and 5kHz and an average of 6dB gain between 5kHz and 10kHz.  

In simpler words the sound from this mic is like combining the flat response of the SM58 and adding the slight mid and high-range boost of the Audix OM-5, delivering awesome presence with crisp highs and balanced mids and lows.

Pros

  • Sound clarity is the best advantage of this mic. The added pop filter feature adds to its performance. The mic’s construction is basic but solid, compact, and durable. It’s easy to use and easy to hold in your hand.

Cons

  • Other than the slightly higher price, there are no negatives on this mic.

Note: The hyper-cardioid pattern rejects feedback as advertised, though you must be deliberate with the proximity of your mouth to the mic.

In summary, the AE6100 by Audio-Technica delivers. You’ll experience natural, excellent sound quality with almost zero feedback, making it a fantastic microphone for stage use as well as for home studio recording.

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Sennheiser e945

Sennheiser’s handheld dynamic mic, the e945, it’s the company’s flagship model. If you’re going to buy a Sennheiser for live or recorded vocals, the e945 is the one. The e945 mic delivers clear sound on vocals, which makes sense since it was designed for live stage performances.

Design and Features

This dynamic mic capsule features a super-cardioid polar pattern that captures every detail of your vocals so that they are clear even on the most raucous of venues.

  • The mic capsule is shock-mounted to prevent impact further and handling noises. Handheld mics take a lot of shuffling and rough handling. When this happens while the mic is in use, both you and your audience will be disturbed, and your performance interrupted.
  • This Sennheiser has super-low sensitivity to the handling as well as impact noise.
  • This high-performance design is further strengthened by something called hum-compensating coils that prevent electrical interference.
  • The e945 has a Neodymium ferrous magnet fortified with boron. This type of magnet does not waver under environmental changes.
  • It has a frequency response range of 40Hz to 18kHz and an impedance of 350 ohms
  • The case is solid metal, making it durable and reliable during live performances.
  • The design includes a falcon ring, which creates a consistent sound over time.

How Does It Sound?

Having used this mic for many years I have found that it delivers an accurate reproduction of a singer’s voice. The design promotes power and clarity for live performances. Other users have agreed, stating that the mic works with no feedback or distortion from unwanted signals.

Thanks to is flat mid-range frequency response and slightly boosted high frequency response it delivers a warm sound with accentuated crisp details.

The e945 mic only picks up sound coming directly from the front and behind it. Any sounds that may be generated on stage do not interfere with the mic and, thus, your vocals. The result is a clean delivery every time.

Because it’s designed for easy handling and is shock-mounted, the mic has a low sensitivity to impact. So, you won’t have any undesirable pops and other noises interfering with your performance.

Pros

  • Time after time, users attest that this mic improves the natural quality of their vocals, from the clarity to the noise reduction and feedback suppression.
  • These same users are also pleased with the Sennheiser’s durability and long-term reliability for stage performances.

Cons

  • As with any brand and model mic, singing style and personal preferences influence a vocalist’s opinion of a microphone.
  • Some users report a tinny sound or the opposite, a more low-end delivery than they’d like. In our experience, adjusting the EQ levels takes care of that.

In summary, the e945 by Sennheiser is the company’s best-selling model because of its craftsmanship and quality sound. The price is comparable to its competitors.

Due to the great sound with almost zero feedback, many reviewers including me state that this is the best microphone for live singing, no matter what type of voice you have.

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Tips for Choosing the Best Vocal Mic for Live Performance

When choosing a microphone for your live stage performances, you have a lot to consider beyond budget and style preferences. We’ve put together a short guide to help you choose the best microphone for your live performances.

When researching microphones, you’ll hear terms like dynamic, condenser, frequency response, and polar pattern. Most of you are familiar with these terms. If you are not, then take a look at the guide below to see how they apply to microphones and your personal preferences.

The first concept you’ll need to understand is the difference between a dynamic microphone and a condenser. Both are designed for live performance, though there are distinct differences between the two.

Condenser Vs. Dynamic Microphones

For live vocals, there are two types of mics from which to choose. Those types are dynamic and condenser. Dynamic microphones are usually best for live performances because they are less sensitive than condenser mics. Having low sensitivity means the mic is less prone to bleed and feedback during a stage performance.

Even so, many vocalists and sound engineers prefer customized condenser microphones because they deliver superior sound quality and clarity when compared to dynamic mics.

Dynamic Microphones

Dynamic mics are less sensitive than condensers. They employ a copper coil attached to a membrane which responds to sound. From there, the vibration interacts with magnets inside the coil, which creates an electrical current.

A dynamic mic picks up a higher volume of noise. Though, it can miss some of the more subtle details of the voice, which is why many professionals prefer the condenser type.

Further, dynamic mics are tougher and hold up better than condensers. Performers often prefer them for this reason alone.

Condenser Microphones

Often, professional speakers and vocalists prefer a condenser microphone rather than a dynamic one. Condenser mics pick up more details, including inflection and other nuances of the speaking or singing voice.

Of course, this also makes condensers far more sensitive to other noises in the background. During live music performances, this can create distortion.

Condensers are also more delicate when it comes to durability. Often, they are reserved for studio recording for this reason.

Overall, condensers are less versatile than dynamic mics. Though artists do use dynamic mics for studio work, and others are successful with condensers for stage work. Many vocalists take more time to fine-tune the EQ settings or pair with additional sound-enhancing equipment.

Next, let’s talk about frequency response.

Frequency Response

Dynamic and condenser mics are receptive to different frequencies. For example, a flat response mic responds to all frequencies in the same manner, which can be a drawback for live performances and other applications.

Manufacturers more often customize the frequency response to respond to certain frequencies that enhance its performance for live vocals, studio recording, or both. For instance, some mics deliberately dampen bass or treble frequencies, while other models intentionally enhance them.

Whenever possible, you should try a mic before you buy one of your own. Certain models will better suit your vocal tone and pitch. After all, your mic should showcase your range rather than muddy it.

Another essential part of your purchasing decision has to do with the microphone’s polar pattern.

Polar Pattern

When discussing the polar pattern of a microphone, understand that the polar pattern is the directional shape of the microphone’s field of sensitivity. It is the direction from which the mic either ignores or accepts sound.

When it comes to live performances always chose one of the following polar patterns to reduce feedback and noise: Cardioid, Super-cardioid, and Hyper-cardioid Patterns. To learn more about each one of these patterns read this post

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the best microphone for live vocals depends on several factors, from your own vocal style, the pitch and tone of your voice, and your preferred sound. Polar patterns are also an important consideration when it comes to the degree of sensitivity you require for your live performance or studio recording.

We have included our reviews of the six microphones we feel are the best for live vocal performances. Each is priced well and comes from industry leaders. All are designed with quality and durability in mind, though each has design specs that set them apart from the others.

Loudest Bluetooth Speaker for Outdoors

Looking for the best beach party companion? You probably need the loudest Bluetooth speaker for outdoors you can afford. I prepared an updated list of 8 of the loudest Bluetooth speakers that’ll make your party a memorable experience.

These speakers feature a tough, rugged, functional design that’s perfect for the outdoors. Some are waterproof, and others are water-resistant. In addition, they enjoy dust ingression protection to varying degrees.

So, buckle up and discover 8 of the loudest Bluetooth speakers on the market. There is a speaker for every budget in this list.

But before we dive into the list, there are a few things you need to know when choosing the best and loudest Bluetooth speaker for the outdoors. Let’s get started.

What to Look for When Choosing a Bluetooth Speaker for Outdoors

The best Bluetooth speaker for the outdoors is one that won’t get shattered to smithereens if you drop it accidentally. It’s also one that can take some rain or spill of water and still survive.

At the very least, it should withstand moisture to some extent, but that’s not to say you should start looking for ways to submerge your speaker in water to see what happens! And if there’s lots of dust or sand, you’ll need a dust-proof option.

When it comes to sound reflections you need to remember that there are no walls outdoors to resonate the sound. That’s why you should go with a choice that thunders even outdoors.

In addition, the perfect speaker should be one whose battery lasts hours. Also, it should let you pair it with other devices. That means you won’t have a single moment of awkward silence at the party.

If the speaker comes with additional features such as a flashlight, that’s a good thing, but that often means a higher price. Additional features might also mean less sound for your party.

Taking all of these guidelines into consideration, here are our top 8 picks for the loudest Bluetooth speakers that you can use indoors and outdoors.

The 8 Loudest Bluetooth Speaker

The top 8 loudest Bluetooth speakers available in the market today are:

  1. The SOUNDBOKS 3
  2. The SOUNDBOKS GO
  3. JBL Boombox
  4. UE Hyperboom
  5. Sony SRS-XP700
  6. JBL PartyBox 300
  7. Aiwa Exos-9
  8. Treblab HD Max

Let’s take a closer look at each one to find out more about their features and sonic characteristics. 

1. The SOUNDBOKS 3 – The Loudest Portable, Battery Powered, Bluetooth Speaker for Outdoors

The SOUNDBOKS 3 is an indestructible powerhouse of a speaker that is designed for outdoor use. In fact, it’s probably one of the best and loudest speakers for outdoors. This thing is rugged and LOUD. You can take it and its military-force batteries anywhere and make it a party.

The SOUNDBOKS 3 the updated version of the SOUNDBOKS 2. This version plays louder than the original and with way better sound quality. And it now comes with an improved battery with a LED light to tell you when the battery is low.

Finally, the overall construction of the third-generation speaker is supposedly more durable. Though, that was never really a weak point of the original.

The SOUNDBOKS 3 has an added indoor/outdoor mode that’s supposed to optimize performance in either setting. Though, this speaker remains a better choice for outdoor use, which I will explain later.

SOUNDBOKS 3 Design

This portable Bluetooth speaker was designed to be a hassle-free, take-anywhere speaker. It makes good on that claim with its AUX connection. The Bluetooth signal holds for reliable streaming.

The speaker is made from poplar wood and has a casing that is designed to be shockproof. While it is portable, it does weigh a hefty 34 pounds and stands over two feet tall.

Given the sound quality and construction, though, you wouldn’t want it any other way. The company touts it as virtually indestructible. It looks it. And it will perform in probably just about any climate.

It comes with military-quality, swappable batteries that go up to 40 hours. Well, 40 hours and average to low volume. The louder you play any speaker, the shorter your battery life is going to become.

Outstanding Sound Quality Outdoors

Hands down, this is probably the loudest Bluetooth speaker for outdoor parties. It was literally designed to play loud and to a max volume of 126 dB. The sound holds all the way to top volume. The louder you crank it, the better the bass. Now, that’s the ticket to a block party.

Because it’s made for outdoor use, it is less impressive at low volume. This isn’t your model speaker if you plan to use it indoors. The sound actually loses clarity at lower volumes. For outdoor use, though, you can’t beat it.

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To check out the full detailed, unbiased review of the SOUNDBOKS 3 Speaker, click here.

There SOUNDBOKS 2 or second generation is more affordable and delivers 121dB loudness. Loud enough to get the cops knocking at your door. To check the full review, click here. Click the link to check the price on Amazon.

2. SOUNDBOKS GO – Concert-Level Sound In a Small Form Factor

If you are looking for a super rugged portable Bluetooth speaker for outdoors that delivers insane volume for its size, then the SoundBoks Go is for you.

The idea behind this speaker design was to create a portable Bluetooth speaker that is perfect for the outdoor lifestyle while delivering a lot of volume for your outdoor, pool, and beach parties.

The Design

This speaker has a width of 18”, a height of 12”, a depth of 10”, and weighs 20 pounds. Of course, this speaker might not be as portable as other Bluetooth speakers, but if loud volume is what you are looking for, then size matters.

It is worth mentioning that it is smaller and lighter than its bigger brothers, the SoundBoks 2 and SoundBoks 3, also reviewed later in the article.

The SoundBoks brand is well known for its rugged speaker construction, which is what you need for any outdoor adventure.

The cabinet and front grille are made from reinforced ABS material with extruded rubber bumpers that go all around the cabinet. This means that the speaker can take some abuse without getting damaged.

It can be thrown at the back of your truck with the camping equipment, or if dropped from a few feet, you don’t have to worry about damaging it. Plus, it is dustproof and splashproof, making it perfect for your next tailgating or campout adventure.

Battery Life

The manufacturer specifies that you can play music at the maximum volume and get 10 hours of playtime. In real life, you’ll get between 8-10 hours, and as the battery gets older, the total playtime at max volume will decrease.

Now, if the volume is decreased to about half, which is still plenty, you can get up to 40 hours of playtime.

The good news is that if your outdoor party lasts longer and you need to constantly drive this thing to its maximum volume, you can get extra batteries because it has a swappable battery design. It only takes 30 seconds to swap the rechargeable battery pack and continue with the party.

It is also possible to connect it to its charger while it’s playing, but when charging and playing at the same time, don’t go past 50% of the volume to avoid problems with the audio amplifier. This is because the charger doesn’t deliver enough current to charge the battery and play at the maximum volume simultaneously.

Sound Quality and Loudness

Inside the cabinet, a 10” woofer and a 1” silk dome tweeter deliver excellent sound clarity, crisp treble, and deep bass. The speaker’s frequency response range is 40Hz – 20kHz, providing a good listening experience.

Everything is powered by 2 × 72 Watt continuous – Class D power amplifiers. Class D amplifiers are the latest technology in audio amplification, delivering more wattage while consuming less power, thus providing a longer battery life.

One specification that you need to look for when buying any speaker system is the SPL (Sound Pressure Level). SPL measures the loudness a sound system delivers, and it’s measured in Decibels. Look for loudness level instead of looking for how many watts (power consumed) it delivers.

The loudness of the SoundBoks Go is 121dB at one meter of distance from the speaker, which is the equivalent of a very loud rock concert.

Using the Optimized Sound Profile Presets

With the SoundBoks App, you can choose from 3 optimized sound profile presets – Bass+, Power, and Indoor. Each preset is fine-tuned to provide a balance between bass, loudness, and battery life.

With Bass+, you will get the deepest, loudest bass this speaker can deliver, but it comes at the cost of reducing the system’s battery life.

The Power preset provides you with a balanced sound, also fine-tuned to deliver the best loudness with a balance between performance and battery life.

Finally, there’s the Indoors preset, which reduces the speaker’s overall bass and maximum available volume. The advantage is that it will increase the battery life.

If you don’t like the presets, no problem. You can customize the EQ settings with the SoundBoks App to get the sound and performance you want.

How it Compares to Larger Speakers

The SoundBoks Go will deliver the same maximum volume as the JBL PartyBox 310 or the Sony XP700, but in a smaller form factor. But it needs to be pointed out that the mentioned speakers can deliver deeper bass.  

In some cases, depending on the EQ you have set on the SoundBoks Go you can get a higher volume, but you will lose the deep bass sound.

 Features Worth Mentioning

  • Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity protocol
  • You can wirelessly link up to 5 SoundBoks Gen. 3 together for an even louder sound system
  • Comes with a 1 × 3.5mm Stereo Input for wired audio connections

You can protect your speaker from theft with a Bluetooth signal lock, rendering the speaker unusable if stolen.

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3. JBL Boombox – Waterproof Portable Outdoor Bluetooth Speaker

If you’re searching for a loud outdoor Bluetooth speaker, look no further than the JBL Boombox. Here are some things you should know about it.

This speaker has four active transducers and two bass radiators that deliver high-quality sound. It’s IPX7 waterproof, which means it can withstand any weather, making it perfect for outdoors; the speaker can even float in water! It can go up to 24 hours without needing to be charged, and its 76.6Wh battery can be used as a battery bank, allowing you to charge your devices.

Features

This speaker weighs 13 pounds. It is 7.9 inches tall, 19.1 inches wide, and 10.1 inches deep. It has a comfortable handle on top for easy carrying. Button controls on top let you connect Bluetooth, change music soundtracks, or adjust the volume.

The JBL Boombox Bluetooth speaker has a rechargeable 76.6Wh Lithium-Polymer battery that allows you to play music for 24 hours before you need to recharge. It takes 6.5 hours for a full charge when it’s time to charge it.

It also enables USB charging, so you can connect other devices to your speaker and use its battery to charge them. It uses Bluetooth technology to pair with your Android or iPhone devices. The JBL Boombox Bluetooth speaker can deliver 60 W of power on battery or 80 W when connected to a power source. This speaker is even water-resistant in depths of up to 3.3 feet (1 meter).

Sound Quality

For its size, the JBL Boombox Bluetooth speaker is one of the loudest outdoor Bluetooth speakers in the market today. Its 80W RMS power amp provides a crisp, robust sound for your music. It has a frequency range of 50-20k Hz, producing a wide range of sound accurately, and its 80 dB signal-to-noise ratio ensures the clarity of your music. It’s excellent for playing electronic, hip-hop, rock, and bass-heavy genres.

The Good

The power output of the JBL Boombox Bluetooth speaker is one of its best aspects. Another great feature is its battery life. The speaker’s bass also has excellent depth and clarity. Vocal performances are reproduced well, and the beats sound well defined.

It is great for small to medium gatherings, and the stereo Connect+ feature helps you link several JBL speakers if you want.  

The Not So Good

The speaker is a bit weak in the mid-frequency range. Some users have complained about connectivity issues as needing some improvement, although others described it as amazing. The speaker is on the pricey side; you can get equivalent speakers of different brands for less. It’s also not a very portable speaker; the device is quite heavy, weighing over 13 lbs (5.9 kg), so it’s not easy to take it on a hike or outdoor trip.

If you want a speaker for Hi-Fi listening, then this one is not for you. Still, if you want a loud, bass-heavy system for outdoor parties or gatherings, this is the perfect one, delivering awesome JBL sound.

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To read the full detailed, unbiased review, click here.

4. UE Hyperboom – Loud, Big Bass, Water Resistant

While the UE Hyperboom might be a bit large for some tastes, this speaker can handle any party grooves you throw at it with an innovative and stylish design. It delivers a well-balanced sound and plenty of bass, all from the touch of an app on your smart device. This speaker will be the life of your outdoor or indoor party.

Lots of Bass to Keep the Party Going

The Hyperboom is UE’s loudest speaker. It comes with two 4.5″ woofers, two 1″ dome tweeters, and two massive  3.5″ x7.5″ passive radiators to expand the system’s sound pressure level.

The woofers and tweeters are fine-tuned to deliver a punchy bass while providing balanced mids and clear highs. This system has zero compromises on sound balance and audio quality. Your music will sound great at any volume.

It Features UE’s Adaptive EQ

One of the best features of this speaker is the adaptive EQ. The speaker has a built-in microphone that “listens” to the audio to adapt the equalization and provide the best sound possible, depending on where it’s placed.

If the speaker is in a small room, it will auto-adjust so the bass doesn’t sound boomy. Suppose you place it in the outdoors, like on a patio, rooftop, or poolside. In that case, it will increase the bass so that the music doesn’t sound thin, and it does it automatically.

It Connects to Different Audio Sources

You can seamlessly change between input devices with its two Bluetooth inputs by pressing a button. If instead you rather use a wired connection, it comes with a 3.5mm auxiliary input.

One cool feature about this speaker is its optical input, making it very practical to connect it to your smart TV and use it as a vertical soundbar.

Don’t forget that you can connect the Hyperboom (or any UE speaker) to other UE speakers for ultimate sound throughout your home or around the pool. The Bluetooth range is 147 ft or 45 meters.

Battery Life and Charging Port

With the UE Hyperboom you can get up to 24 hours of playtime. This feature is directly dependent on the volume at which you play the music. If the speaker will be used at full volume, the playtime is less than 12 hours. At medium volume, you can expect up to 24 hours of playtime.

This Bluetooth speaker can serve as a charging station for your smartphone. It has a USB charging port on the back. Just remember that if you use it as a charging dock, the battery won’t last as long.

Some Disadvantages of the UE Hyperboom

  • This speaker is not waterproof, meaning that it can’t be dunked in the water. It is only water-resistant, which means that it can handle liquid spills and splashes. It comes with an IPX4 rating.
  • Another drawback is that this speaker is not dust and sand proof. So, if you are taking it to the beach, you have to be careful not to place on the sand.
  • You also have to be careful not to drop it, as it can break on impact.

If you rather have a waterproof speaker, something you can take inside the pool with you and not worry about dust or sand getting inside, then go for the UE MEGABOOM 3 or UE WONDERBOOM 2.

Just keep in mind that those speakers, although they are waterproof, they are not even close to the loudness and sound quality that the Hyperboom can offer.

Features Worth Mentioning

  • It has an elegant diamond shape, two-tone fabric, and a pull-out strap for carrying
  • The BOOM App offers features like Remote On/Off, PartyUp, Customizable EQ, One Touch to Your Playlist, and more.
  • Max SPL (sound pressure level) is 100 dB. (SPL measures the perceived volume of the speaker).
  • With the One-Touch music control, you can play, pause, and skip tracks directly from the speaker without reaching for your phone.
  • By setting up the one-touch playlists, you can easily control your music from your favorite streaming platforms such as Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Music, etc.
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5. Sony SRS-XP700 – Portable Party Speaker for the Outdoors

The SRS-XP700 portable speaker is one of the loudest portable Bluetooth speakers out there. Making it one of the best Bluetooth speakers for the outdoors. Plus, it provides a good battery life.

However, what makes it stand apart is the bass it delivers and features like the two ¼” input connectors for a microphone and guitar, making it perfect for your next karaoke party or outdoor gathering.

Extra features like the light show make it more fun. An instant light show is a great way to turn a party into a dance party.

Speaker Design

This speaker has a width of 12.3″, a height of 27.2″, a depth of 14.4″, and it weighs 37lbs. Luckily, the speaker comes with a built-in handle that helps get the speaker from place to place. Sony designed the speaker for indoor and outdoor use, with an IPX4 splash and spills-resistant rating.

Remember, though, that it’s not water resistant, meaning that it can’t be submerged in water. So, if you’re using it near a pool or at the beach, be sure to keep it away from the water.

The speaker’s cabinet is made from ABS plastic and a front metal grille to make it more rugged. It is important to point out that the XP700 is not as rugged as the SoundBoks speakers, but it is rugged enough for your next outdoor adventure as long as you don’t drop it.

One of the neat design features is the Indirect illumination system which gives your party a fresh, modern look. The light bounces around in a loop that goes a long way toward transforming your space into a dance party.

Even better, if you are planning a large party, you can connect several speakers together, up to 100 speakers using Sony’s Party Connect with Bluetooth technology, and the music and lights sync up so everyone dances to the same beat. Having the music and the lights synch up makes a pretty cool show.

Control the Speaker with The Music Center and Fiestable Apps

You can use Sony’s Music Center app to fine-tune your settings. With the app, you have complete control over the speaker’s behavior, such as selecting your favorite playlists, cueing the next song, changing lighting patterns, sound modes, and more.

What’s more, installing Sony’s Fiestable App gives you even more options, like changing the color of the lights. There are some fun DJ-like effects included with Fiestable, too. You can also use motion control gestures on your smartphone screen to have fun.

Sound Quality and Loudness

Inside the cabinet, at the from, the XP700 comes with 2 x 6.7” woofers and 3 x 2.4” tweeters. There is a 2” tweeter at the back to deliver sound from all angles.

This speaker delivers a somewhat balanced tone without the MEGA BASS function active, but it is a bit weak on the mid-range frequencies. This can be fixed by fine-tuning the EQ using the app. Keep in mind that this speaker was designed to deliver a heavier sound on the bass and lower-range frequencies.

Sony doesn’t specify how many watts or the loudness this speaker can deliver, but from sound tests, the loudness was clocked at 105 dB at about 1 meter of distance. Just for comparison, a live concert is between 110 and 120 dB. So, the speaker is plenty loud.

I can’t tell you precisely what the RMS output power of this speaker is without opening it and measuring the amp’s output power because is not included in the specifications, but doing this would void the warranty.

I can give you an approximate output power, which most likely is between 180 to 240 Watts RMS. The amplifier must be Class-D, which is the latest technology in audio amplification, providing the best performance to battery life ratio.

Bass Performance

If you’re into bass, the XP700 delivers. Designed for mad basslines, this portable speaker has some serious punching power in the low-end department. The extra bass is an actual feature of this model. When you want that punch, you press the MEGA BASS button to bring on the bass.

Now, keep in mind that as the speaker pushes the woofer to its limit to provide you with a louder bass, the overall volume is adjusted to avoid distortion, so you might sense a lower volume if the MEGA BASS feature is activated. Still, it delivers a loud volume even when pushing it to its limit.

If you want insane loudness when listening to bass-heavy music, you should consider the SOUNDBOKS 3 speaker instead, which is much larger than the XP700. We review it later in this article.

Battery Life

Sony advertises the battery life of the XP700 to last up to 25 hours, but this is with some caveats. To get 25 hours, the volume needs to be set at 25%, the lights turned off, and the MEGA BASS turned On.

To give you an idea, 25% volume on the XP700 would be equivalent to having a speaker like the Treblab HD Max or the Sony XG500 at max volume. So, 25% is still a decent volume.

If you were to run the XP700 at maximum volume with the MEGA BASS active and the lights off, you can playback between 5-6 hours.

Features Worth Mentioning

  • It comes with two mic/guitar rear inputs with separate gain control
  • 3.5mm mini jack input for playing audio from wired devices
  • Integrated carry handle for easy portability
  • Two USB-A ports for charging your devices
  • You can play music using a USB flash drive
  • The speaker can be placed upright or on its side

All in all, this is one of the best Bluetooth speakers for outdoor or indoor use. It’s loud enough for your outdoor party, and it can handle your hardest bass tracks.

If the XPS700 is outside your price range, you can opt for its smaller brother, the SRS-XP500, which is a bit more than half the price while delivering a great sound.

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Related: Best Bluetooth Speaker for Tailgating

6. JBL PartyBox 300 High Power Portable Wireless Bluetooth Party Speakers with lights

JBL named this portable Bluetooth speaker right when they called it the PartyBox. It’s a Bluetooth speaker loud enough for any party and with some jazzy light effects. JBL delivers another piece of equipment with its famous sound quality.

Because it’s portable, you can take it just about anywhere and plug just about anything into it. It will take a mic or guitar as well as stream a playlist from your phone or another device.

Features and Design

Like I stated above, JBL’s signature sound is in this portable speaker. On top of that, the speaker included a full panel of lights that creates awesome visual effects that will be the hit of your next party.

The woofer lights flash on the floor to create an awesome gradient of light. It’s something you just have to see. If lights aren’t your thing, don’t worry. You can turn that feature off for more subdued atmospheres.

Although this is technically a portable speaker, it’s important to note that it’s anything but compact. At about three feet tall, it’s a bit clunky. But when you consider the fantastic sound that comes out of this thing, you won’t mind lugging it to your next party. The built-in handle helps in that department.

The battery life on the JBL holds for hours of play at top volume, which is good because this speaker is loud and has a phenomenal bass. While the manufacturer states 18 hours of battery life, that’s not entirely true.

Like any speaker, the louder you play your music, the shorter the battery life. Not an issue if there’s a place to plug it into an outlet. But you do want to plan for that if you’re using it outdoors and away from electricity.

Super easy to connect and play, you can even connect two PartyBoxes together – wirelessly. Hardwiring using the RCA outputs is an option, too. I already mentioned the connections for a mic. The speaker does double duty as a mini PA system or DJ booth.

Outstanding JBL Sound

The PartyBox has the crisp, balanced sound you’d expect from the JBL brand. What’s more impressive is that it’s from a portable speaker. And the bass is amazing as well. It punches without distortion. The sound remains clean and clear at any volume level, even the treble.

All in all, the PartyBox speaker by JBL is worth the money. It’s one of the best portable party speakers you can buy. You won’t be disappointed between the crisp sound, volume, and light effects.

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To read a full detailed, unbiased review, click here.

There is a smaller version of this speaker, the JBL PartyBox 100. It is an excellent speaker that delivers a powerful sound. To read the full detailed review, Click Here.

7. Aiwa Exos-9 Portable Bluetooth Speaker

The Exos-9 is advertised as a portable, indoor/outdoor Bluetooth speaker with the sound and volume of a home stereo speaker. Believe the hype. This speaker is LOUD. Even more, it has an impressive bass that keeps the party going without distortion. In short, it’s a Bluetooth speaker loud enough for any outdoor party.

Five-Band Equalizer

What gives this portable Bluetooth speaker its awesome clarity is its design, which includes a five-band graphic equalizer. Choose from the four precise pre-sets or tune it yourself, your choice. The design also includes five powered drivers and a killer 6.5-inch subwoofer.

Five Speaker Drivers and Subwoofer

The Exos-9 is the only portable Bluetooth in its class with these five speaker drivers and subwoofer in its category. Of course, this means the speaker is on the hefty side. But, if you want a big sound, you’re going to need a big speaker.

Power

If you do a little research, you’ll find that other speakers in the same category don’t actually have an active subwoofer. Nor are they built with the power of the Exos-9, which has a whopping 200 watts of continuous power. Most competitors’ speakers max out at only 40 watts or less.

Even though the bass on this speaker can shake the ground, you can keep the music going for up to nine hours on battery power alone.

Easy to Connect

You can stream your music source easily, whether you have an iPad, Android, Kindle, whatever. The speaker also includes jacks that make setup a breeze.

You can even connect two Exos-9 speakers together and choose your configuration. You can connect them in a dual-stereo configuration or separated.

Sound Performance

As I stated already, this is probably one of the loudest Bluetooth speakers you can get for the outdoors. Along with that volume is crystal clear sound. None of the tones is lost because it’s a portable unit. You can feel the bass in your feet and hear all the highs in full stereo as you would on an indoor home system. The sound is simply incredible.

If you bring this to an outdoor event, expect people to ask questions about the price and where you purchased your portable speaker.

One Downside

Probably the only actual drawback to this powerful speaker is that all this power weighs a good 13 pounds. Still, if you want this kind of sound and clarity from a portable speaker, you have to put a little muscle into it. If you want the best Bluetooth speaker for your next outdoor party, definitely go with the Exos-9.

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To read a full detailed, unbiased review, click here.

Related: Best Sounding Portable Bluetooth Speaker

8. Treblab HD Max

One thing that stands out about the Treblab HD Max Bluetooth speaker is its quality build, price, and the handful of features it delivers.

It’s not as loud as the other speakers presented in this list but still delivers a good bang for your buck. For its size, it provides a decent volume for your indoor or outdoor parties. What’s more, you can pair two HD Max and get True Wireless Stereo sound (TWS) and even louder sound.

Design and Build Quality

This speaker is designed with the outdoors in mind. For starters, it is IPX6 water-resistant, which means that it can resist heavy rain and water splashes. Just keep in mind that this doesn’t mean waterproof, don’t dunk it in the ocean or pool no matter how crazy the party gets!

It looks similar to the JBL Xtreme 3 but delivers almost the same features at a fraction of the price.

Carrying the Treblab HD Max is very easy. At only 5.6 lbs (2.55 kg), it is ideal for taking it to your next hike or outdoor party with confidence.

Its carrying strap is made from heavy-duty nylon, and the metal clips will keep the speaker secured to your shoulder. Plus, it comes with a bottle opener in case you need one.

When it comes to the build quality, it stands out thanks to its PVC chassis and heavy-duty outer fabric that protects the speakers.

The passive radiators are ionized aluminum which adds a nice touch to the overall build.

Sound Quality

The HD Max delivers crisp, detailed highs and deep full bass for a speaker this size. It offers three sound modes: outdoor, indoor, and bass boost.

If the outdoor mode is selected, the system enhances the high frequencies and reduces the low frequencies. That way, you can get higher volumes and no distortion.

With the indoor mode selected, the bass is boosted, and treble is dialed down a bit to provide you with a better listening experience.

Instead, if you rather have a bass boosted listening experience with almost no treble, select the bass boost mode. But keep in mind that this mode delivers lower volume because compression kicks in when the volume is at max to avoid distortion.

What We Like

  • Easy to carry it around
  • Water-resistant device
  • Good build quality
  • Great price
  • Deep bass and clear highs
  • You can get up to 20 hours of play from a single charge – only at 30% volume and not using it as a power bank
  •  It can be used as a power bank to charge your device
  • It comes with a 3.5 to 3.5 mm audio cable for connecting devices that are not Bluetooth capable.

What We Don’t Like So Much

  • It is not as loud as other speakers in the same price range
  • The actual battery life is around 8 hours at 50% volume – which is good if your outdoor trip lasts only one day
  • It doesn’t include a charger. It only comes with a USB Type-C charging cable

If you are looking for a portable Bluetooth speaker that delivers beautiful sound and gives you a lot of bang for your buck, look no further than the Treblab HD Max. It’s the perfect companion for your next outdoor adventure.

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Best Loud Bluetooth Speaker Overall

Each of the products described above is great in its own way. But the Soundboks 3 stand out from this crowd of the loudest Bluetooth speakers. Of the 8 speakers examined, it’s the loudest, most rugged, and most durable.

With this deal, you’ll easily become the guy who throws the most exciting parties in the neighborhood. You might even attract some attention from the local authorities. But is there anything like bad publicity?

Well, it is expensive, but shouldn’t superior sound cost considerably more than good enough or average sound? Can’t afford it? No worries. Decide which among the other seven loudest Bluetooth speakers should be the second-best bet for you.

Soundboks 2 Review

The SoundBoks 2 is on of the loudest Bluetooth speaker for outdoors. With two 10″ woofers, a tweeter, and three 75W amps, it’s a terrific companion for various kinds of uses.

It’s great for street-side busking, beach parties, wedding receptions, backyard parties and lots of other needs.

Before we continue with the review, it’s worth mentioning that the SoundBoks 2 is a second-generation speaker. There is a newer, updated version of this speaker. Here is the link to the review of the more recent, updated version, the SoundBoks 3.

Features

  • Dimensions: 12.6″ x 26″ x 17″
  • Weight: 35.8 lbs.
  • Volume: Up to 122 dB
  • Battery: Military-grade; delivers 40 hours playtime on average volume.
  • Battery charging time: 4 hours
  • Super durable
  • Two 10″ woofers
  • Three 75W amplifiers with boost converters
  • One soft dome tweeter
  • Battery indicates the current charge
  • Knob for either indoor or outdoor mode
  • Loud and clear
  • DC charging input: Charge the speaker directly or its battery
  • Combo AUX/3.5mm mini jack
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The Design

The Soundboks 2 features a super -solid, rugged design that makes the product extremely durable. Weighing in at 35 lbs. and with handles on each side, the speaker is one you’ll haul around with relative ease. It’s massive — not the kind of thing you’ll want to carry for long.

Various materials including wood, metal, aluminum, and plastic come together into an incredibly durable product. There’s a metallic grate covering your cones so you can enjoy great parties for years into the future.

Also, the design features metal ball corners coupled with metal piping. These details easily make the speaker one of the most durable deals on the market today. This thing is built to last. In fact, you can sit on it as a stool or even use it as an end table. And doesn’t that make it versatile?

There’s a simple yet effective control panel that displays two useful knobs. One knob helps control volume. The other helps you switch between indoor and outdoor mode.

Here’s one more thing. The bottom of the Soundboks 2 is designed in a way that allows you to mount your speaker on stands.

Sound Performance

With a max volume of 122 dB, the Soundboks 2 is one of the world’s no #1 loudest battery-powered Bluetooth speaker.

When Soundboks conceived this product, they thought of everything you’d ever want in a speaker for both indoor and outdoor use. The speaker has two knobs, one of which helps you choose either the indoor mode or the outdoor one. Without this knob, this speaker would be overkill for indoor use.

In terms of loudness, the Soundboks 2 isn’t anywhere near average. You’d be hard-pressed to find a portable Bluetooth speaker that pumps such levels of sound. I think of this speaker as a monster boombox. It’s a real beast, and the sound you get justifies its high price.

The speaker’s three 75W class-D amplifiers, two 10″ woofers, and one tweeter ensure you get powerful, loud sound throughout the party.

Things get even better when the integrated boost converter jumps in and takes the volume to a whole new level. With the indoor mode, you’ll see a volume of up to 100 dB while the outdoor mode delivers a max volume of 122 dB.

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What about sound quality?

You may be a puritan when it comes to audio resolution, but you’ll still love this speaker. Honestly, though, the Soundboks 2 isn’t the greatest option there is in that regard.

Note: the speaker doesn’t have an equalizer. But that doesn’t mean you won’t get clear, balanced sound — you actually will.

Bluetooth Connectivity

There have been some complaints that sometimes there are some connectivity issues with the Soundboks 2. Certain older phones have difficulty connecting to this speaker. Examples include the OnePlus 5 and OnePlus 3 smartphones.

But a smartphone such as the iPhone 6 should easily find your speaker, connect, and remain connected without issues. Connectivity is optimal within the 50-feet range.

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Ruggedness

When it comes to ruggedness, I can’t think of a speaker that comes even close. The Soundboks 2 is an extremely tough option that can take pretty much anything you may fling at it. The solidly built exterior makes sure your system stays looking good for years.

Battery Life

One thing I really like about the Soundboks 2 is its military-grade battery (LiFePO4). The battery looks like a rectangular box with a handle. At full volume, one full charge should give you about 7 or 8 hours of playtime.

Going with a considerably lower volume (mid volume) may give you up to 40 hours of playtime. But it’s a good idea to buy an extra battery. That ensures you’ll never ever worry about having to end your party earlier. The battery is rechargeable and easy to replace.

You may choose to charge the Soundboks 2 directly (without the battery). You may also opt to charge the battery while it’s in there. If you charge it without the battery, you’ll probably not get all the volume it’s got.

Pros

  • Great for both indoor and outdoor use
  • Loudest portable Bluetooth speaker
  • Rugged design
  • Extremely durable
  • Military-grade battery
  • Relatively easy to haul around

Cons

  • Big
  • Quite expensive
  • Connectivity issues with certain phones
  • No USB port for charging devices
  • No equalizer
  • Not weatherproofed

Honestly, not being able to charge the phone isn’t exactly a minor quibble. But aren’t you more interested in the beast’s thunder than you’re in making calls during the party?

Concerning connectivity, you’ll have to decide if buying a compatible phone makes sense for you. The presence of a metallic grille on the front of the Soundboks 2 could account for the connectivity issue. But the grille offers full protection to your speaker. And that’s a really good thing.

While the product is tough and durable, the manufacturer doesn’t provide an IP rating. That means the product won’t survive a dunk in water. Luckily, taking care of something one loves often doesn’t feel hard.

What’s in the Box

  • The Soundboks 2
  • The AUX cable
  • Charger
  • User’s manual
  • Rechargeable battery
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Warranty

Soundboks provides a 2-year limited warranty for the product. The warranty only applies to those who buy from authorized retailers or directly from the manufacturer.

You should immediately let whoever delivers the speaker know about any manufacturing defects. The item comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee. However, you’ll have to shell out the shipping costs.

Conclusion

Ever wondered what’s the loudest, battery-powered, portable, Bluetooth speaker on the planet? The Soundboks 2 is, the speaker thumps ears so hard that people remember it for years.

Whether you’re having a house party or having fun outdoors, you won’t go wrong with this one. It amplifies the sound like nothing else, and its military-grade battery lasts forever. It’s way better than anything you’ve ever heard about the Soundboks 1.

If you think that the SoundBoks 2 is too big for your taste but still want an insanely loud but more portable speaker, you need to check out the SoundBoks GO, which is the smaller brother of the SoundBoks 2 but produces the same loudness.

I hope this review helps you decide whether this speaker is a good fit for your next outdoor adventure.

JBL PartyBox 300 Review

The JBL PartyBox 300 offers a characteristic JBL sound along with stunning light effects. It uses a rechargeable battery that makes it possible to hold a party anywhere you like. Like most JBL speakers, this is an impressive product that delivers clear, balanced sound. The speaker features light shows as it blasts out powerful tunes beats. With the JBL PartyBox 300, you’ll get an immersive sound experience that makes your party unforgettable. Great for use at home and outdoors.

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Features

  • Weight: 35.3 lbs
  • Dimensions: 32.4″ x 15.5″ x 15.6″
  • Power source: Battery powered (by 2 lithium-ion batteries)
  • Connectivity: USB, Bluetooth, wireless, wired
  • Bass boost
  • Mic and guitar outputs
  • Battery charge time: 5 hours
  • Battery playtime: roughly 18 hours*
  • Frequency response: 45Hz to 20kHz
  • TWS and RCA
  • USB port for charging
  • USB playback
  • Full panel light effect
  • Two 6.5″ woofers
  • Three 2.25″ tweeters
  • Frequency response:45Hz to 18 kHz
  • Power source: 12 V DC or built-in battery
  • Power output: 120W

Design

The design of the JBL PartyBox 300 speaker brings to mind the image of a loaf of bread. It’s about 3 feet tall and seems quite tall when you stand it on a surface. The design isn’t compact. Since it weighs in at 35 lbs, the thing is still portable. But it’s much heavier than the JBL boom box. The speaker also features integrated carrying handles, making moving it around more manageable.

The PartyBox offers a full panel lighting effect so you can give your audience a stunning visual experience. The speaker also comes with Bluetooth capability, so you can stream your favorite tracks.

In addition, the design allows you to plug in a guitar. Even a bass guitar. It’s 100% safe to plug in your bass guitar.

You can wirelessly connect to two compatible speakers to the PartyBox. The TWS feature is the wireless option for that. The other option is through the RCA output of one speaker to the one you need to pair.

Sound Performance

Looking for a speaker that’ll make your ears bleed? You won’t find a more powerful product than this one at that price.

The speaker comes with two 6.5″ woofers. It also features three 2.25″ tweeters. The tweeters and woofers deliver a combined 120W of RMS power. Throw in the product’s Bass Boost function and get extra punch for your party.

The sound can get very loud, but here’s what surprised me: the sound is unbelievably clean. The lows are great; the mids too, and the highs terrific. There’s nothing to hate as far as sound is concerned.

Believe me; you’ll want to have the speaker playing at much lower volume. With the volume low, the bass comes out super deep, clear, and well defined. I’m talking earthshaking bass here! Whether it’s Motown, EDM, or rock, the JBL PartyBox 300 got you covered.

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Ruggedness

As one of the best portable Bluetooth speakers for outdoor use, the JBL PartyBox 300 features a rugged design. It’s rubberized and looks like it can take pretty much anything else you might throw at it. The plastic material used to make the product’s enclosure is tough and durable. And the grille that covers the two subwoofers and tweeters seems strong and doesn’t dent easily.

Battery Life

The manufacturer indicates 18 hours. But from what I’ve seen, you’re unlikely to get 18 hours of playtime. Think of 6 or 8 hours of playtime if you’ve not set the speaker to the highest volume. And the lights aren’t blinking the whole time. But isn’t 6 to 8 hours enough time for a party?

Pros

  • Deep, rich bass
  • Clear, loud, crisp sound
  • Great lows and highs
  • Product well designed
  • Great lighting effects
  • Easy to pair with Party Boxes for amazing stereo sound

Cons

  • You’ll want to buy a second one!
  • Relatively pricey
  • Questions from neighbors and even strangers

JBL products are known for their superior quality. But they often seem a little too expensive. Thankfully the price is (often) justifiable. I’m certain you won’t have regrets after buying this speaker.

In fact, your neighbors will to own a JBL once they see yours. You’ll become a trendsetter in your neighborhood. But is that such a bad problem to have?

What’s in the Box

  • A Warranty card
  • A quick start guide
  • AC power cable
  • 12-volt DC cable

Warranty

You’ll get a limited 1-year warranty.

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Conclusion

Anyone who craves deep, well-defined bass coupled with great lows and highs should consider buying the JBL PartyBox 300.

The speaker’s design is rugged as they come, but it isn’t weatherproofed. It produces terrific sound both indoors and outdoors. At its price, you’re getting every ounce of value that your money is worth.

Sony GTK XB90 Review

There’s no better way to thrust everyone into party mode than firing up the Sony GTK XB90. The speaker’s Sony music center app lets you offer great lighting effects that light up the party like nothing else.

The Fiestable app means great DJ effects that add to the overall excitement of the party or event. Thanks to the speaker’s EXTRA BASS technology, the bass is always deep and punchy. And the 16-hour playback rechargeable battery ensures the party never stops.

Unfortunately, the speaker isn’t waterproof. So, don’t dunk it in salty ocean water no matter how crazy the party gets!

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Features

  • Weight: 36.5 lbs
  • Dimensions: 29.1″ x 15.9″ x 16.3″
  • Infinity mirror lighting
  • Rechargeable battery that delivers 16 hours of playtime
  • EXTRA BASS technology
  • Sony Music Center app & Fiestable app
  • Mic input
  • 2-way design + built-in handle
  • NFC and Bluetooth capabilities
  • USB ports
  • Three 2″ tweeters
  • Two 7″ subwoofers
  • Wireless party chain
  • Stamina Mode
  • Output: 60watt

Design

The Sony GTK XB90 features a two-way design that gives you flexibility regarding how you use the speaker. You may stand the speaker or place it sideways and still get amazing sound. The manufacturer decided not to make the speaker waterproof even though it’s marketed as an outdoor option. But you can be sure the product is water-resistant to some extent.

The design positions stunning infinity mirrors around the speaker’s lights. The mirrors bounce back and forth throughout the party, energizing everyone and keeping them dancing the whole time.

Another important feature the design offers is the Stamina Mode. At maximum volume, the speaker delivers only 3.5 hours of continuous playtime. But when you activate the Stamina Mode, the volume subsides a bit. As a result, you’ll end up with up to 1.5 hours of extra playtime.

One more thing. The design features a phone cradle and a USB port to make sure you never run out of charge.

Join Up to 10 Compatible Speakers

The design supports NFC and Bluetooth connectivity, so your audience won’t see a single moment of boredom. If it’s a large party and you want to have several speakers working for you, leverage the speaker’s Wireless Party Chain.

The Bluetooth capability allows you to chain together up to 10 compatible speakers for your outdoor party. The speaker pairs well with the XB60, XB40, SX30, and XB20 via Bluetooth. After you link them, be sure to synchronize the music and lighting. That way, everyone gets to dance to the same harmonious beat.

Sound Performance

If you equalize the sound correctly, you’ll get to enjoy the full bass spectrum. The speakers are powerful and produce bass that’s deep and punchy enough for an outdoor party or event. It’s not called XB (EXTRA BASS) for nothing. But if you seek bone-shaking sound, buy something else.

The speaker’s mids and highs aren’t exactly terrific. But chaining several compatible speakers solves the problem. Be sure the distance between the speakers doesn’t exceed 3 feet.

Users have said that by adding two XB31s and two XB60s to this speaker results in a sound that will blow you away. Note: if you’re experiencing connection problems with your phone, you’ll encounter synchronization issues between the speakers. But you can’t blame your speaker there, can you?

Thanks to its twitters and subwoofers, the speaker delivers a decent sound that’s quite loud. For the price, the speaker’s sound quality will meet your expectations. Here’s good news: you can pair two XB90s, organizing them into a left/right stereo system.

The Sony app works, but I’d say it does so seamlessly. In fact, it sometimes appears like the app has a zilch effect on lights and equalizer settings.

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Ruggedness

While the speaker’s rugged design is great for outdoor use, the speaker isn’t waterproof. Honestly, there are quite a few comparable speakers that are waterproof and dustproof. I’m not saying don’t buy it. It’s still one of the loudest Bluetooth speakers out there. I’m simply saying I don’t like the fact that the speaker isn’t weatherproof.

Battery Life

Even though the manufacturer says the battery delivers 16 straight hours of playback, the reality is different. No one who plays the speaker at max volume while streaming music should expect more than 6 hours of playtime.

If you want more playtime so you won’t stop the party halfway through, crank the volume down a bit. Also, activate the speaker’s Stamina Mode. With the Stamina Mode on and your built-in rechargeable battery full, you’ll have up to 8 hours of dance time. You’ll also want to turn the lighting effects off.

Note: if you press and hold the Stamina Mode, the speaker tells you how much battery life remains. And pressing the stamina button just once automatically engages the power-saving mode.

Pros

  • Pretty loud and decent bass
  • Portable
  • Stunning lighting effects
  • Quick NFC and Bluetooth pairing
  • Stamina Mode
  • Can link up to 10 compatible speakers
  • Can act as a small PA system
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Not weatherproof
  • Speaker grille dents easily
  • Not very good highs and mids
  • Lights can be somewhat annoying

The manufacturer should have added the weatherproof feature to this speaker. You don’t want to buy this option if there’s a likelihood of getting a splash or two. Buying a waterproof cover would be a good idea.

Also, the grille that covers the tweeters and subwoofers seems somewhat delicate. It’s not very hard to dent it. But as long as you don’t bash the thing against rocks and trees, it should be fine.

The mids and highs are good enough, but I’d not say they’re perfect. But for outdoors you need bass and loudness. Also, the Sony Music app enables one to handle EQ settings and control the lights. Good news: if you don’t like the Sony app you can replace it with a third-party equalizer app for better performance.

As for lights coming back on without your input, you’ll just have to learn to set them right.

These negatives are noteworthy, and you should certainly choose something else if you’re not ok with them. Still, the speaker does what the best loud Bluetooth speaker does — it thunders throughout the party.

What’s in the Box

  • Power cable
  • Instruction manual
  • Warranty card
  • Quick setup guide
  • Sony GTK-XB90
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Warranty

One-year limited warranty. It covers labor and parts.

Conclusion

The speaker’s sound quality is good, but it’s not spectacular. In addition, the speaker isn’t weatherproof, and that’s a significant omission. But as far as portable outdoor speakers with Bluetooth go, the Sony GTK XB90 performs satisfactorily.

If you live in a climate that’s almost always wet, choose a different speaker. But if deep, punchy bass is what you are looking for, then go for it.

Altec Lansing ALP-XP850 Xpedition 8 Review

Looking for a waterproof, dustproof, portable, wireless Bluetooth outdoor speaker that looks great? Don’t look further than the Altec Lansing ALP-XP850 Xpedition 8.

The speaker is quite loud. It’s unlikely you’ll want to couple it with another Xpedition 8. There’s one thing I don’t like about the speakers though. The manufacturer is too optimistic when reporting how long the battery actually lasts.

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Features

  • Weight: 24lbs
  • Dimensions: (28″W x 13″H x 15″D)
  • Bluetooth and NFL enabled
  • Rugged design with an IP rating of IP67 — waterproof and dustproof
  • Battery life: About 14 hours with lights off (50% volume)
  • Two 8″ subwoofers
  • Three 1″ tweeters
  • Strobe lights and multicolored speaker lights
  • Output: 420W peak
  • Bluetooth range: 100 ft
  • Connections: Aux. and Bluetooth
  • Recharge time: Roughly 5 hours
  • Powering options: AC, DC input

Design

The speaker looks similar to the Sony XB90. However, it doesn’t seem as sophisticated. So, let’s dive deeper and learn more about the Xpedition 8’s design.

Protective Grille

The speaker’s angled up enclosure translates into great sound dispersion. The speaker’s 3, 1″ tweeters and two 8″ subwoofers stay protected by the speaker’s black grille.

Control Panel

The control panel is positioned in the middle of the front panel. There are strobe lights around the right and left part of the front panel. Also, there are lights that surround each speaker. These lights greatly enhance the overall attractiveness of the design, adding vitality to your night parties.

In the middle of the control panel sits a large polygon-like knob that helps you do two things. One: adjust the volume. Two: check how much battery life you still have left. To use the knob, simply press it just a little bit.

Top Panel

The top panel carries the NFC logo. Does your smartphone or tablet supports NFC pairing? Lucky you! Pairing takes only 2 seconds, and you’re streaming beautiful tracks like there’s no tomorrow. Simply hover the device around the NFC logo and tap it once (with the device) and voilà! you’re paired.

6 Buttons

There are 3 buttons above the knob and 3 below it. The first set comprises the power, speaker lights, and strobe lights buttons. Below the knob sits the Link, Beast, and Bluetooth buttons.

The link button helps you wirelessly link two speakers (Xpedition 8) together for louder sound. The so-called Beast button helps you get an enhanced bass response. And the Bluetooth button lets you pair your speaker to some other device, so you can stream music.

Handles

The unit features 3 handles. One of the handles is on the top panel, the other on the right, and the last one on the left one. Weighing in at only 25 lbs, the speaker is so easy to carry.

Rear Panel

At the rear panel, you’ll see 2 passive bass radiators sitting on either side of a waterproof cap. The plastic cap protects the DC and AC input, aux input, and the USB port. The waterproof cap completes the speaker’s rugged design.

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Sound Performance

The Xpedition 8 is a veritable beast when it comes to sound generation. In fact, you won’t want to use the speaker indoors. It’s just going to be too loud for your liking. The bass is where it should be — deep and punchy.

You’ll love the speaker’s mids, but they’re far from detailed. The highs are more than noticeable, but clarity needs a bit more work.

Another thing is you can easily pair two Xpedition 8 speakers for louder sound. Bad news: you won’t leverage the stereo mode because it’s nonexistent with this product. If you go with this option, don’t expect to see a great stereo separation. But then expecting perfectly refined sound from an outdoor speaker would be asking for too much.

Ruggedness

With an IP rating of IP67, the speaker is both waterproof and dustproof. It’s the sort of speaker you want for the perfect beach, pool, and outdoor party. This speaker is a great option, and you’ll want to give it a thought.

Did you know that this waterproof speaker would actually float if you tossed it into a freshwater pool? It really does, and nothing will happen to it. Don’t go on a speaker-slinging spree though!

Battery Life

According to the manufacturer, consumers may expect 24 hours of playtime for each full charge. But at what volume level? Will you keep the lights on and still get 24 hours? The answer is emphatical no.

The best you can hope for is 12 hours if you set the speaker to less than max volume and keep the lights turned off. But if you prefer to keep the speaker lights and strobe lights on, you won’t see a minute more after 5 hours.

Pros

  • Pairs with other Xpedition 8 speakers quickly
  • Pairs with external sound sources in seconds
  • Waterproof
  • Dustproof
  • Portable
  • Great sound

Cons

  • Battery life overestimated
  • Not great for indoor use
  • No stereo mode

Honestly, though, 5 hours of playtime doesn’t sound that bad to me. And yes, the product doesn’t crank out a perfect sound in closed spaces. But you’re interested in the loudest Bluetooth speakers for outdoor use, aren’t you?

Lack of stereo mode kind of peeves me. However, for outdoor use where loudness matters more than anything else, that may not be such a big deal.

What’s in the Box

Here’s what you’ll get:

  • User’s manual
  • 1 DC cable
  • 1 AC cable
  • The speaker itself
  • Warranty card
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Warranty

The speaker has a 1-year warranty. The warranty covers workmanship and materials defects.

Conclusion

Altec Lansing ALP-XP850 Xpedition 8 is easy on the eye. In addition, it can survive an accidental dunk in water. The product also enjoys full protection against the ingression of dust.

A black grille protects the unit’s three tweeters and two 8″ subwoofers. The speaker completely fills large spaces with loud sound punctuated by deep, punchy bass. Also, the vocals sound great.

While the mids are sweet, it’s not what you’d call detailed. The highs don’t deliver superior clarity, but they’re good enough. I wouldn’t buy the product for indoor use though. But it’s a great option for the outdoors.

Aiwa Exos-9 Review

Whether you’re partying at the beach, pulling weeds in your garden, or tailgating, you’ll crave music, and the Aiwa Exos-9 portable Bluetooth speaker is among the finest options out there.

It pumps out 200 watts of powerful, continuous stereo sound thanks to its five drivers which include a 6.5″ dual-voice subwoofer. The product is among the loudest Bluetooth speakers the manufacturer produces (actually the loudest).

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Features

  • Weight: 13 pounds
  • Dimensions: 7.5″ x 11.7″ x 19.4″
  • 5-band adjustable graphic equalizer +4 presets
  • Up to 10 hours of battery life
  • Power: 200 watts
  • 5 powered speaker drivers: One 6.5″ subwoofer
  • Two 1″ silk dome tweeters
  • Two neodymium midrange woofers
  • Frequency: 40kHz to 20kHz
  • Bluetooth: 50 feet radius, A2DP
  • Wireless NFC pairing
  • Handle: easy to carry
  • Playback controls
  • Max SPL: 100 dB
  • 3.5mm aux. input
  • Class-D bi-amplification
  • A micro USB port for firmware updates
  • A USB port for charging
  • Supported codecs: AAC, APTX, and SBC
  • Touch-sensitive control panel + LCD screen
  • Removable grille to protect your drivers
  • 1-year limited warranty

Design

At only 13 lbs., the Aiwa Exos-9 is quite light. It also features a carrying handle at the top of its rear panel. Moving it to and from your car’s trunk will always be a breeze.

The Aiwa Exos-9 is sort of like a “new school” boombox. It combines the familiarity of easily recognizable design with the awesomeness of modern engineering. Whether you’re a teen or much older, you’ll love this speaker.

The unit arrives with a removable aluminum grille that serves to protect the system’s 5 drivers. You can leave the grille on during use or remove it.

On the front side (at the top), the unit features an LCD screen. There’s also a volume knob just next to the LCD screen which even a visually challenged person won’t miss.

At the back of this portable Bluetooth speaker, you’ll find input ports and a battery compartment. There’s also a large bass reflex port.

You’ll also see the power switch and an AC input. In addition, there’s an aux input so you can pair your speaker with various audio sources.

It gets better: there’s a USB port so charging your mobile or tablet won’t be a problem. Finally, you’ll get a micro USB port that supports firmware updates.

Sound Performance

The Aiwa Exos-9 packs a hefty punch in the sound quality and loudness department. Is it the loudest speaker in the world? Probably not, but it’s certainly one of the loudest Bluetooth speakers on the market.

In fact, pairing two speakers like these ones easily get you noticed by your neighbors. The local authorities might also show up and ask a few questions!

People buy speakers for their sound, and this product doesn’t disappoint. It pumps out powerful, punchy, but still clear bass. The mids are surprisingly detailed and the highs are amazingly clear. However, that only happens when the equalizer stays turned off.

Want to add a bit of bass or make the midrange distinct? No worries. Tinker a little with the product’s 5-band adjustable equalizer and 4 presets. You’ll easily crank out the sound you crave.

Here’s something I really like about this speaker. Even at the highest volume and deepest bass, the mids never get drowned out. Best of all, there’s very little distortion.

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Sound Test Outdoors

Video Credits: oluv’s gadgets

Combine Two Speakers for Louder Sound

Want louder sound for a once-in-a-lifetime party? Simply bring together two Aiwa Exos-9 speakers, and everyone at the party will go wild. The unit’s Link buttons (found on the speaker) make that possible. Make sure to place the two speakers not more than 20 feet away.

The Link buttons enable you to link up your speakers easily, quickly, and wirelessly. The paired speakers can do either of two things. You can have them play the same audio for louder sound. Or, you can have them unite into a wonderful stereo pair. One of them in such an arrangement would play the left and the other one the right.

But how do I pair up the speakers? Simply press the Link button on one speaker and then quickly press the one on the second speaker. Then, kick the party off. And believe me, it does get loud.

It’s not possible to fire up this speaker and not have someone inch closer to ask where you bought it! Who wants to repeat the same boring story every time they have a party?

Ruggedness

Is the speaker rugged? Yes, but not as much. A textured plastic material is used to construct the speaker’s external parts such as the back, sides, and top.

Now given the material used, you’ll have to be careful while handling the speaker. Dropping it certainly isn’t a good idea.

But the toughness of the material allows you to haul the product around without any issue. In addition, the product comes with two protrusions (feet) growing out from its bottom. The feet keep the speaker stable throughout the party.

Battery Life

The unit delivers up to 10 hours of continuous sound thanks to its rechargeable lithium-ion battery. But if you’re playing at max volume while streaming music via Bluetooth, don’t expect 10 hours of playtime.

Instead, expect something like 6 hours. Good news: you can always buy Aiwa’s18+ hour battery. The battery makes sure you won’t have to suddenly terminate your beach party.

Pros

  • Lots of useful features
  • Loud sound and deep, rich bass
  • Easy to pair
  • Relatively cheap
  • Bluetooth connectivity

Cons

  • Not waterproof
  • Control buttons sometimes not sensitive
  • You’ll keep marketing the product for free because everyone will ask you about this Bluetooth speaker

The buttons on the control panel may sometimes misbehave. That’s something to keep in mind as you use the product. But touching twice solves the problem. Still, that’s a bit of a bummer and seems out of sync with the product’s overall awesomeness.

What’s in the Box

  • Battery pack
  • Bluetooth portable speaker
  • AC power cable
  • A stereo minijack cable
  • A quick user’s guide
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Warranty

The speaker comes with a 1-year limited warranty. Good news: Aiwa will extend the warranty to up to 2 years if you make a request. To do that, you’ll have to register your speaker with the manufacturer here.

Conclusion

If you derive lots of fun from throwing things into water, don’t buy the Aiwa Exos-9! Its IP rating for water is 0, so keep it away from moisture.

Buy the Aiwa Exos-9 if you desire deep, rich bass with crystal clear highs and prominent midranges. Given the price, the product is arguably the best loud Bluetooth speaker on the market.

Samson Expedition XP150 Review

The Samson Expedition XP150 is a simple, compact, clever designed system that effortlessly delivers a powerful stereo sound. The PA system packs up into a single easy to carry unit weighing just 24 lbs. The PA solution is perfect for conferences, classrooms, and presentations of various kinds. It’s also great for professional musicians and speakers.

A removable 5-channel mixer leverages two 75W class D amplifiers, a titanium tweeter, and 6″ woofer to power this solution. Result: clean, dynamic stereo sound for your audience. Best of all, this portable sound is surprisingly affordable.

Here is the full Samson Expedition XP150 Review

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Features and Specifications

Features

  • A removable 5-channel mixer: 3 mic/line inputs, 2 additional line inputs, Phantom power.
  • Components come together into a light, portable product.
  • 2 internal 75W class D amplifiers.
  • Built-in digital effects processor.
  • Dual 2-way speakers.
  • 6″ woofer.
  • 1″ titanium tweeter offering 60x 90coverage.
  • 2-band EQ for every channel (bass and treble).

Specs

  • Speaker drivers: 1 x 6″ and 1 x 1″ HF
  • 2-band channel EQ
  • Mixer channels: 5
  • Dimensions: 13.9″ (Height) x 8.6″ (Width) x 15.6″ (Depth)
  • Weight: 24 lbs
  • Frequency response: 40Hz-20 kHz
  • Total power: 150W Class-D amp
  • Inputs: 3 x XLR, 2 x 1/4” plugs
  • Outputs: 1 x ¼” and 3.5mm for keyboards, MP3 players

Design and Build

Samson didn’t just wake up one morning and say, “Hey, let’s cobble together one more speaker. Professional musicians need variety and we just have to give them a new product.”

Hard thinking, sound engineering knowledge, and boundless creativity went into the design process that culminated in the Samson Expedition XP150.

Made of ABS Plastic

The enclosure material is made of ABS plastic. For starters, ABS is tough and durable. That means you’ll still have your PA system in pretty good condition years down the road.

What’s more, using products made from ABS helps Mother Earth in some way because ABS plastic is recyclable.

A Clever, Compact Design

Lots of people use the word “clever” when describing the system’s design. Why is that so? It’s because a lot of thought went into the design.

One of the two speakers has ample room in its back. The removable 5-channel mixer sinks into this space and fits perfectly.

The other speaker provides ample housing for the unit’s wiring. After a live performance, these two powerful speakers interlock into a clean, compact, portable unit.

Samson’s Sound Engineering Expertise

Samson’s innovativeness and engineering expertise goes back to the 1980s. Throughout the 80s and 90s, the company tinkered with various technologies, producing different useful products in the process. They made wireless mics, mixers, wired mics, power amps, signal processors and more.

The company’s sound engineering expertise and resourcefulness come together into a clean design that delivers loads of fidelity and reliability.

Carrying the unit is pretty much like hauling around a suitcase. It’s small and light. And that means hassle-free transportation. This PA system is always ready to help you give your audience a memorable sound experience.

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Sound Quality

As long as the room isn’t too large, you can be sure your XP150 will deliver. The PA solution works perfectly for solo and duo acts. One might even say it’s more than enough for such needs. You might also use the product to entertain larger audiences, such as quiet concerts.

Not Good for Background Music, Though

You really don’t want to rely on this solution to provide background music. An example would be a small crowd that’s chatting excitedly while celebrating happy hour. In such a situation, don’t count on this unit to drown out the din in the bar. It just won’t.

Great Sound for a Concert-ready Audience

But you should get great results if it’s a larger crowd and they’re there for a quiet concert. How many people? 50 is the ideal number.

Small Speakers, Big Sound

The speakers are small. But they crank out a significant amount of sound. In fact, the sound feels much louder than the speakers that spit it out.

Whether it’s low or high notes, the sound does really get heard. Someone who stands in the far end of the room will still get a clear, powerful stereo sound.

That happens because this PA system is a hard taskmaster to its dual 2-way vented speakers. Also, the tweeter works alongside the 6″ woofer to disperse the bass covering 60 degrees vertical and 90 degrees horizontal.

Let Each Vocalist Stand Out

The Samson XP150 helps professional musicians achieve two huge goals. First, it lets the crowd savor Samson’s professional live sound experience.

Second, the unit’s built-in digital effects processor ensures every vocalist gets precisely the level of reverb they need to shine. Adding some reverb to the overall live sound experience is effortless. Simply flip a switch on the vocal channel you want and voilà — it’s done.

Display Flexibility

This portable PA solution comes with high-impact ABS plastic enclosures. The enclosures showcase a tilt-back design that can be used as floor monitors.

Samson also incorporated integrated 1 3/8″ speaker mounts into this product. The mounts demonstrate great compatibility with LS2 Lightweight Speaker Stands. These are top-notch stands sold separately by Samson. Yes, that’s an additional cost. But anyone who wants to get the most of this PA should be willing to incur the extra expense.

Value and Price

Here’s what you’ll find in the box:

  • 2 PA speakers.
  • 5-channel mixer.
  • 2 speaker wires with each end featuring a right-angled connector (1/4″).
  • AC power cord with an IEC 3-prong plug.
  • User’s manual.

Whether you’re a 3-person ukulele band, motivational speaker, or musician who plays small concert venues, you’ll love the XP150. The product easily and quickly packs up into a compact easy-to-carry package.

With the product, you’ll get tons of ease of use, portability, and speaker power. You’ll get all the sound you need to entertain small to medium-sized audiences in relatively quiet venues. The product is a high-quality and affordable sound generator for crowds not exceeding 50 people. You really should give it a chance.

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Pros

  • Plenty of power for small venues.
  • Ideal for small church or chapel.
  • Amazing sound quality.
  • Clever, compact design.
  • Easy to carry.
  • Quite affordable.

Cons

  • Fan in the amp a little noisy.
  • Not very good for noisy venues.

Final Thoughts

Seeking a PA solution that’ll work for a large happy-hour crowd and make them go wild for you? You’ll want to pick something else. But if you play small venues such as banquet rooms and coffeehouses, you’ll really love the Samson Expedition XP150.

Does a cheap 5-channel PA that powerfully fills small spaces with beautiful clear sound seem like a great deal? That’s because it is. If you’re a small band, speaker, or solo entertainer, grab this product and get to work.

Bose S1 Pro Review

The Bose S1 Pro is a grab-and-go PA system for event speakers, musicians, and other performers. It does not matter whether you seat your system, tilt it, or mount it you’ll always get a rich sound. Plus, the sound evenly covers the entire room.

Don’t let the unit’s compact dimensions mislead you. The Bose S1 Pro may not be the best portable PA system ever made, but it delivers stunning performance. It’s super light, highly effective at sound processing, and reasonably affordable.

Here is the full Bose S1 Pro review:

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Specs and Features

  • Weight: 15.5 lbs
  • Included: 1 pre-mounted Lithium-ion battery
  • Product dimensions: 11.1″ x 9.4″ x 13.1″
  • Power Source: Power cord and Battery-powered
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • 1 convenient carry handle
  • Mixer: 3-Channels
  • ToneMatch Technology
  • 35mm pole mount
  • Auto EQ
  • Unique multi-position design
  • Wireless range: not beyond 30 ft.

Design and Build

The name Bose is synonymous with top-notch audio products. But what drives this company? It’s their passion for excellence and focused desire to surpass yesterday’s successes.

Bose’s innovativeness didn’t stop when the company gave the world the first-ever noise-canceling headphones, or when they designed a seat suspension system that revolutionized the way long-haul drivers experienced their journeys.

The Bose S1 features a compact design that doesn’t take away one ounce of greatness that Bose’s products are famous for. The system stays housed in an enclosure that’s comparable in size to a typical home stereo or large Bluetooth speaker. The enclosure’s design allows for different setup configurations, and that means flexibility for users.

Unique Multi-position Design

The unit features a unique multi-position design. One can choose any one of 4 different positions to configure their system.

One might choose to put the unit on the ground. Second, they might opt to place it on its side. Third, they might tilt it back. Finally, they might elevate or mount it using a speaker stand.

Bose’s Smallest PA System

The unit happens to be Bose’s smallest PA system. However, that doesn’t make it the least powerful. It’s designed to work perfectly in a multiplicity of social and formal events. Where accessing power outlets might be a challenge, this product becomes a natural choice. While it’s the smallest Bose PA system, it also counts as the best powered PA speakers for the money.

Bose is an Industry Leader

Bose is among the leading companies when it comes to building speakers. Every speaker they ever release packs a massive punch. And the Bose S1 Pro is no exception.

Psychoacoustics is the solid science behind the brilliance of Bose’s audio products. Audio companies in the past only cared about measuring how their speakers made music sound. But Bose started focusing on how people heard or perceived sound.

For over 50 years, the company has been researching, implementing, testing and repeating the cycle. Result? The world can now access stunning speakers such as the Bose S1 Pro at a reasonable cost.

Ultra Portability

The unit is pleasantly light at just 15 lbs. Just grab it by its convenient handle, get in the car and fly to the venue. Everyone’s counting on you. Luckily, this system never disappoints. Upon arrival, carry your system inside. Then, set it up and fire up your eager audience. With this product, you’re never going to need a helping hand.

Professional musicians and music enthusiasts love the system’s “take me wherever you want” design.

Rechargeable, Factory-Installed Battery

Are you worried that there might be power issues later in the night? You can always count on the Bose S1s system’s rechargeable lithium-ion battery. The battery delivers 10+ hours of usefulness so you won’t disappoint your audience. Whether it’s a get-together or a party that’s happening outdoors, this compact speaker system got you covered.

Sound Quality

Consumers heap this PA system with endless praise due to how it reproduces sound. The unit disperses sound via the front of its enclosure. But some of the sound exits via the sides. Its efficient auto EQ feature enables the speaker to generate clear, evenly distributed whole-room sound. The auto EQ fine-tunes the sound’s tone automatically.

As a result, the unit consistently produces refined sound no matter its current configuration. The sound stays consistent and even throughout the performance. Whether a person remains in one place or keeps walking around the room, sound quality doesn’t change.

The Bose S1 Pro also features built-in ToneMatch processing. The technology provides one-touch presets for acoustic and vocal guitars. This capability ensures that your guitars and mics sound perfectly natural. Simply flick a switch, and you’ll instantly access the feature’s power.

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3-Channel Mixer

The Bose S1 Pro contains a built-in 3-channel mixer. The mixer supports guitars (acoustic-electric), vocal mics, and an axial source. It also offers the ToneMatch feature (discussed above).

The user turns the functionality on by operating a simple switch. As long as this feature stays turned on, your audience gets to enjoy perfectly optimized mic and guitar sound.

The mixer also contains auto EQ and reverb controls. And one of the channels allows you to enjoy sounds and music from either wireless or wired sources.

The Bose-Connect App

To leverage the app, download it first. Once you do that, you’ll easily access the Party Mode of the system and other amazing additional options.

Thanks to this capability, you can seamlessly stream audio to another PA system. You’ll get a lot more sound than your audience needs to stay happy, interested, and yearning for more.

Bluetooth Connectivity

Through one-touch pairing, the unit enables users to stream audio from sources such as tablets and smartphones. Once the connection completes, announcements made via your mic to your audience become super clear. The feature also supports music playback. It’s also useful for providing music between sets.

Pros

  • A super clear sound that evenly covers a wide area.
  • Very light: portable.
  • Completely hassle-free setup.
  • Built-in battery: great versatility.
  • Sound optimization.
  • Wireless speaker.

Cons

  • Reasonably expensive.
  • The battery may not last 10+ hours if used at its highest volume constantly.
  • For the price, the sound volume is not high enough.
  • No master volume.

The majority of people who have experienced the Bose S1 Pro are happy with the product they received. But there are a couple of concerns that Bose should examine and resolve.

First, the price seems a little too high. But the quality of the unit does speak for itself. And it delivers exceptional performance.

second, some users complained that the battery lasted less than 10 hours. But even then, it seems good enough to have a PA system that would run uninterrupted for less than 10 hours with a single charge.

Third, it’s true that sound volume feels a little lower than what one would expect at that price point. Honestly, this is a negative that’s best resolved by buying something else. Still, most users were 100% happy with this PA system.

Finally, no master volume. Let’s say you plug your instrument, microphone, etc. and set the volume for each one to the desired setting. If you want to increase or decrease the volume of your mix you can’t because there is no master volume knob in this system, you would have to increase or decrease the volume of each channel separately.

These negatives notwithstanding, the product is undoubtedly one of the finest smallest portable PA systems out there.

Price and Value

When your product arrives, here’s what you’ll find. An AC cord and an S1 Pro PA system with a pre-mounted rechargeable battery that lasts hours. There’s also a quick setup guide so you can immediately start enjoying the famous Bose sound.

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Without a doubt, the unit is an all-in-one deal that delivers massive portability, flexibility, convenience, and terrific performance. It’s probably the greatest portable PA system for musicians who perform for relatively small audiences, say, 50 people.

Final Thoughts

Does the idea of a light, powerful and smart PA system that doesn’t use tons of wires appeal to you? If yes, go for the Bose S1 Pro. Lots of people love the product. You’ll most likely fall for it too.

It’s a hassle-free deal that has you entertaining your audience almost immediately you arrive at the venue. If you’re a traveling musician/soloist who performs for relatively small audiences, grab this product as soon as you can. Almost everything about the product will blow you away.