The market for portable Bluetooth speakers is crowded, with many options vying for the attention of consumers who want quality sound on the go. Among these contenders is the DOSS SoundBox Plus, a speaker that promises a mix of portability, sound quality, and a splash of fun with customizable RGB lights. In this DOSS SoundBox Plus Speaker Review, we’ll delve into every aspect of this speaker, from its design and features to its performance and usability, and provide a comprehensive recommendation at the end.
Design and Build Quality
The DOSS SoundBox Plus is a visually appealing device, featuring a sleek and modern design that is accentuated by its customizable RGB lights. These lights offer five different lighting patterns, allowing users to match the ambiance to their mood or activity. The speaker itself is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around for various outdoor and indoor activities.
The build quality is solid for a speaker in its price range. The DOSS SoundBox Plus boasts an IPX4 rating, which means it can withstand splashes of water from any direction, although it is not fully waterproof. This makes it a good companion for poolside parties or sudden rain showers, though it’s best not to submerge it in water.
Sound Quality
Highs and Mids
One of the standout features of the DOSS SoundBox Plus is its ability to reproduce clear highs and mids. The dual full-range drivers, combined with a passive radiator, deliver a 16W stereo sound output that ensures crisp highs and accurate mids. This clarity makes it a suitable speaker for genres that rely heavily on vocals and lead instruments, such as pop, classical, and jazz.
Lows and Bass Performance
Where the DOSS SoundBox Plus falls short is in its bass performance. Like many small speakers, it struggles to reproduce the deep, thumping bass that is characteristic of bass-heavy genres like EDM or hip-hop. While the bass is present, it lacks the punch and depth that audiophiles might crave. However, for casual listeners, the bass performance might be sufficient, especially considering the speaker’s size and price point.
Volume and Soundstage
The speaker’s volume is adequate for small gatherings and personal use, but it doesn’t get very loud. This limitation means it might not be the best choice for larger outdoor events or parties. Additionally, the soundstage is not particularly open or spacious, which can make the audio feel somewhat confined. Despite this, the audio is reproduced clearly, with minimal compression even at maximum volume, ensuring a pleasant listening experience.
Features and Usability
Touch Control
One of the user-friendly aspects of the DOSS SoundBox Plus is its sensitive touch control. The touch buttons allow for easy navigation, enabling users to play music, change tracks, adjust volume, and activate their mobile phone’s voice assistant with simple touches. This intuitive control scheme enhances the overall user experience, making it easy to operate even for those who are not tech-savvy.
RGB Lighting
The customizable RGB lights are a fun addition, particularly for nighttime use. With five different lighting patterns, the lights can create a lively atmosphere that complements the music. This feature makes the DOSS SoundBox Plus not just a speaker, but also a mood enhancer for social gatherings or personal relaxation.
Wireless Stereo Pairing
For those looking to enhance their audio experience, the DOSS SoundBox Plus offers wireless stereo pairing. This feature allows users to pair two SoundBox Plus speakers via a single device, providing a more immersive stereo sound and doubling the volume. This capability is particularly useful for larger spaces or when a more dynamic music experience is desired.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial factor for any portable speaker, and the DOSS SoundBox Plus does not disappoint. With a built-in 3200mAh rechargeable battery, it can provide up to 20 hours of playtime at 50% volume without the lights. When the RGB lights are in use, the battery life is reduced, but it still offers several hours of enjoyment. The speaker can be recharged in 3-4 hours using the included micro USB cable, ensuring it is ready for use whenever needed.
Connectivity
The DOSS SoundBox Plus supports Bluetooth connectivity, allowing it to easily pair with mobile phones, tablets, and computers. The Bluetooth range is up to 66 feet, providing ample freedom of movement without losing connection. Additionally, the speaker has a built-in microphone, making it convenient for taking conference calls or group chats directly from the speaker.
Performance in Different Scenarios
Indoor Use
Indoors, the DOSS SoundBox Plus excels in delivering clear and balanced audio. Its compact size makes it easy to place in any room, whether it’s a living room, bedroom, or office. The RGB lights add a fun element to indoor gatherings, and the touch controls make it simple to adjust settings on the fly. The speakerphone feature is particularly useful for conference calls or virtual meetings, providing clear audio for both music and voice.
Outdoor Use
For outdoor use, the DOSS SoundBox Plus’s IPX4 water resistance rating ensures it can handle light rain and splashes, making it suitable for picnics, poolside parties, and camping trips. Its portability and long battery life are significant advantages for outdoor activities. However, its limited volume and bass performance might be less satisfying in open, noisy environments.
Travel and On-the-Go
The lightweight and compact design of the DOSS SoundBox Plus make it an excellent travel companion. Whether you’re going on a road trip, hiking, or spending a day at the beach, this speaker can easily fit into a backpack or travel bag. The long battery life ensures you have continuous music for the duration of your trip, and the durable build can withstand the rigors of travel.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Clear Highs and Mids: The dual full-range drivers deliver crisp and accurate sound.
- Touch Control: Sensitive touch buttons provide easy and intuitive control.
- RGB Lighting: Customizable lights enhance the mood for any occasion.
- Wireless Stereo Pairing: Pairing two speakers for a more immersive experience.
- Long Battery Life: Up to 20 hours of playtime at moderate volume levels.
- Portability: Lightweight and compact, ideal for travel.
- Water Resistance: IPX4 rating for protection against splashes.
Cons
- Bass Performance: Lacks deep, punchy bass.
- Volume: Does not get very loud, limiting its use in larger spaces.
- Soundstage: Somewhat confined and not very spacious.
- No Sound Customization: Lacks features for adjusting sound profiles.
Comparisons with Competitors
JBL Flip 5
The JBL Flip 5 is a well-known competitor in the portable Bluetooth speaker market. It offers a similar compact design and IPX7 waterproof rating, making it more durable for outdoor use compared to the DOSS SoundBox Plus. The Flip 5 also delivers better bass performance and louder volume, but it lacks the customizable RGB lights and touch controls of the DOSS SoundBox Plus.
Anker Soundcore 2
The Anker Soundcore 2 is another strong competitor, known for its robust build and impressive battery life of up to 24 hours. It features IPX7 waterproofing and better bass performance. However, like the JBL Flip 5, it does not have the RGB lighting feature, which makes the DOSS SoundBox Plus unique in its ability to enhance the atmosphere with lights.
OontZ Angle 3
The OontZ Angle 3 is a budget-friendly option that offers decent sound quality and IPX5 water resistance. It is lightweight and portable, similar to the DOSS SoundBox Plus. While it offers a more affordable price, it lacks the superior sound clarity, touch controls, and RGB lighting of the DOSS SoundBox Plus.
Conclusion and Recommendation
In conclusion, the DOSS SoundBox Plus is a well-rounded portable Bluetooth speaker that offers a mix of clear sound quality, user-friendly features, and a touch of fun with its customizable RGB lights. While it may not satisfy audiophiles seeking deep bass and high volume, it excels in providing a balanced and pleasant listening experience for casual users. Its portability, long battery life, and water resistance make it a versatile option for both indoor and outdoor use.
The DOSS SoundBox Plus is particularly recommended for users who value ease of use and aesthetic appeal. The touch controls and RGB lighting make it a standout choice for those looking to add a bit of flair to their music experience. Additionally, its ability to pair with another speaker for a more immersive sound makes it a flexible option for various listening scenarios.
For those who prioritize bass performance and volume, options like the JBL Flip 5 or Anker Soundcore 2 might be more suitable. However, if you’re looking for a portable speaker that combines good sound quality with unique features like touch controls and customizable lights, the DOSS SoundBox Plus is a compelling choice.
Ultimately, the DOSS SoundBox Plus offers great value for its price, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious consumers looking for a versatile and enjoyable portable speaker.