The SOUNDBOKS (Gen. 3) Portable Speaker is renowned for its ability to deliver an impressive audio experience, particularly in outdoor and party environments. This review covers various aspects of the speaker, from its design and build quality to its performance, connectivity options, and battery life. We’ll also delve into the speaker’s sound profile and customization options, examining how it fares in different use cases. Lastly, we’ll provide some recommendations for potential buyers.
Design and Build Quality
The SOUNDBOKS (Gen. 3) boasts a robust and rugged design, ideal for outdoor use. Its body is constructed with high-quality, durable materials, ensuring it can withstand harsh conditions, including rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. The speaker features a dent-proof steel grille and shock-absorbing silicon ball corners, providing additional protection against accidental drops and impacts.
The overall aesthetic of the SOUNDBOKS (Gen. 3) is functional yet stylish. While it is only available in black, the package includes an Allen key that allows users to swap out the grille for different colors and designs, offering some degree of customization.
Portability and Usability
Despite its large size, the SOUNDBOKS (Gen. 3) is designed with portability in mind. It weighs approximately 34 pounds, making it relatively easy to transport for a speaker of its capacity. The speaker’s built-in handles and the option to mount it on a floor stand enhance its portability and usability in various settings.
Setting up the SOUNDBOKS (Gen. 3) is straightforward, thanks to its simple and intuitive interface. The speaker can be up and running within seconds, making it an excellent choice for impromptu gatherings and outdoor parties.
Audio Performance
Loudness and Sound Quality
One of the standout features of the SOUNDBOKS (Gen. 3) is its ability to get incredibly loud. With a maximum output of 126 dB, this speaker can easily fill large outdoor spaces with sound. The default sound profile is V-shaped, emphasizing both the bass and treble frequencies. This makes it particularly well-suited for bass-heavy music genres, delivering deep and punchy bass that can be felt as much as heard.
However, there are some trade-offs at high volumes. Users may experience significant compression, especially in the bass and treble ranges, which can lead to a loss of clarity in the audio. This issue is more pronounced at maximum volume, where the sound may become muddy and distorted.
Customization and Tuning
To address potential sound quality issues, the SOUNDBOKS (Gen. 3) comes equipped with a graphic EQ and various presets available through its companion app. This allows users to tweak the sound to their liking, enhancing or reducing specific frequencies to suit different types of music and listening environments. Whether you prefer a more balanced sound or want to emphasize certain elements, the customization options provide a level of flexibility that can significantly improve the listening experience.
Connectivity and Features
The SOUNDBOKS (Gen. 3) supports Bluetooth connectivity, enabling wireless streaming from various devices. Unfortunately, it does not include Wi-Fi or smart features such as a built-in voice assistant or speakerphone capabilities. This omission might be a drawback for users who prefer the convenience of integrated smart functionalities.
Despite this, the speaker offers a unique “TeamUp” feature, allowing multiple SOUNDBOKS speakers to be wirelessly connected using SKAA technology. This is particularly useful for large events where a more extensive sound coverage is needed. Additionally, the ProPanel on the back of the speaker provides inputs for microphones, mixers, and instruments, making it a versatile choice for live performances and public speaking events.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life is another area where the SOUNDBOKS (Gen. 3) excels. The speaker is equipped with a rechargeable battery that can last up to 40 hours at mid-volume and around 5 hours at full volume. This longevity ensures that the music can keep playing long into the night without the need for frequent recharges.
For users who require even more extended playback times, the battery is designed to be easily swappable. This means you can have a spare battery on hand and quickly switch them out, ensuring an uninterrupted audio experience. The convenience of this feature cannot be overstated, particularly for outdoor events and parties where power outlets may not be readily available.
Performance in Different Scenarios
Outdoor Events
The SOUNDBOKS (Gen. 3) is particularly well-suited for outdoor events. Its robust build quality, water resistance, and high volume output make it an ideal choice for parties, festivals, and other gatherings. The ability to connect multiple units wirelessly further enhances its appeal for large-scale events, providing comprehensive sound coverage across wide areas.
Indoor Use
While the SOUNDBOKS (Gen. 3) is primarily designed for outdoor use, it also performs admirably indoors. However, the speaker’s high output can be overwhelming in smaller spaces, so it’s important to adjust the volume and EQ settings accordingly. For indoor use, the speaker’s deep bass and clear treble can provide a rich and immersive listening experience, especially when fine-tuned to suit the acoustics of the room.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Exceptional Loudness: With a maximum output of 126 dB, the SOUNDBOKS (Gen. 3) can fill large spaces with sound, making it ideal for outdoor events and parties.
- Robust Build Quality: The speaker is built to withstand harsh conditions, with water and dust resistance, a dent-proof grille, and shock-absorbing corners.
- Long Battery Life: The rechargeable battery provides up to 40 hours of playback at mid-volume, with the option to swap batteries for extended use.
- Customizable Sound: The graphic EQ and presets available through the companion app allow users to tailor the sound to their preferences.
- Versatile Connectivity: The ProPanel offers inputs for microphones, mixers, and instruments, enhancing its utility for live performances.
Cons
- Audio Compression at High Volumes: At maximum volume, users may experience significant compression, leading to a loss of clarity in the audio.
- Lack of Smart Features: The absence of Wi-Fi, voice assistant, and speakerphone capabilities may be a drawback for some users.
- Large and Heavy: While portable, the speaker’s size and weight can make it cumbersome to carry for extended periods.
Conclusion
The SOUNDBOKS (Gen. 3) Portable Speaker is a powerful and versatile audio device designed to meet the demands of outdoor events and large gatherings. Its exceptional loudness, robust build quality, and long battery life make it a standout choice for party enthusiasts and event organizers. Despite some limitations, such as audio compression at high volumes and the lack of smart features, the speaker’s customizable sound and versatile connectivity options ensure it can cater to a wide range of use cases.
Recommendations
If you’re in the market for a portable speaker that can deliver impressive volume and durability, the SOUNDBOKS (Gen. 3) is an excellent option. It’s particularly well-suited for outdoor events, thanks to its water and dust resistance, long battery life, and the ability to connect multiple units for extensive sound coverage.
For those who prioritize audio clarity at all volumes, it may be worth exploring additional EQ settings and presets available through the companion app to minimize the effects of compression. Additionally, if smart features are important to you, consider pairing the SOUNDBOKS (Gen. 3) with a separate smart device to enhance its functionality.
Overall, the SOUNDBOKS (Gen. 3) Portable Speaker offers a compelling blend of power, durability, and customization, making it a top choice for anyone looking to elevate their audio experience at parties and outdoor events.