Portable speakers that can handle a more demanding lifestyle is becoming increasingly common. Some of these speakers may even have features and functionality that make them stand out even more in this plethora of brands and models. JBL Xtreme is one of them and distinguishes itself in several ways.
JBL Xtreme
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Sound Quality - 88%88%
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Features - 80%80%
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Ease of Use - 90%90%
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Build Quality - 88%88%
SUMMARY
JBL Xtreme is a portable Bluetooth speaker with nice design and a lot of good features. And it sounds really good!
Good sound.
Splashproof.
Possibility to connect multiple units.
A bit pricey.
Firstly, it has a well thought-out design. The shape itself is nothing special, but the material that the Xtreme is covered in seems both new and different. The cover and the rubber parts gives it a maritime feel, and it seems to be the perfect speaker to bring on a boat trip. It is available in three different colors: Black, Blue and Red.
Splashproof Build Quality
Build quality is high and the two 2.5 inch (63mm) passive radiators on each end of the beer can shaped housing indicates that bass performance is high on the agenda. Xtreme is also splashproof and it is even possible to wash it under running water (don´t submerge it) if it gets really dirty. The speaker also comes with a shoulder strap for added portability.
As with most bluetooth speakers these days, the setup is very simple. One press on the button with the Bluetooth logo is all that is needed and your phone will find it instantly. It has no NFC, but it connects quickly nonetheless. At the back, hidden behind a zipper, you´ll find the inputs for the power supply, AUX in, and dual USB ports for charging external devices. The 10,000 mAh battery provides an operating time of up to 15 hours depending on how loud you play, and it takes about 3.5 hours to fully charge it.
Clever Stereo Options
An attractive design and extensive features is however not enough to appease any potential buyers in the fierce bluetooth speaker market. Ultimately, it is still sound quality that determines if the JBL Xtreme will fall by the wayside or not. Fortunately, it sounds really good throughout the whole frequency range, while the bass, which is usually a problem area for most small bluetooth speakers, is more than adequate with a full-grown and powerful character.
If you want to extend the listening experience you can add additional units, and by using the JBL Connect app (iOS, Android) you can wirelessly connect the units and select a true stereo sound and use the speakers as a traditional stereo setup. You can also choose to play the same sound on all units and spread them out in your listening area. The latter option is a good choice at parties for example.
Conclusion
JBL Xtreme is a really stylish speakers with a dynamic and crisp sound and plenty of power and weight in the bass. It is splashproof, and although the bass radiators on the sides looks alarmingly unprotected, the Xtreme lives up to its name and can withstand a lot of rough treatment.
The JBL Connect app may be simple, but allows you to expand the functionality of the speaker considerably. Being able to get a true stereo sound is a function we like, and we wouldn´t mind seeing more manufacturers jump on this train. A suggested retail price of $299.95 per unit is however a bit on the steep side, and the price is really the only concern we have.
GET IT ON eBay!
- FEATURES
- SPecIFICATIONS
- IN ThE bOX
Wireless Bluetooth Streaming
Wirelessly connect up to 3 smartphones or tablets to the speaker and take turns playing earthshaking, powerful stereo sound.
High-capacity 10,000mAh Rechargeable Battery
Built-in rechargeable Li-ion battery supports up to 15 hours of playtime and charges devices via dual USB ports.
Speakerphone
Take crystal clear calls from your speaker with the touch of a button thanks to the noise and echo cancelling speakerphone.
Splashproof
Splashproof means no more worrying about rain or spills; you can even clean it with running tap water. Just don’t submerge it.
JBL Connect
Build your own ecosystem by connecting multiple JBL Connect enabled speakers together to amplify the listening experience.
Lifestyle Material
The durable fabric material and rugged rubber housing allows your speaker to outlast all of your adventures.
JBL Bass Radiator
Hear the bass, feel the bass, see the bass. Dual external passive radiators demonstrate just how powerful your speakers are.
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