Boombox 3 vs Boombox 2: Which Should You Buy?
Are you ready to crank up the volume and experience music like never before? The battle of the behemoths is here, as we pit the JBL Boombox 3 against its predecessor, the JBL Boombox 2. These portable powerhouses promise to deliver an unparalleled audio experience, but which one reigns supreme?
Both the Boombox 3 and Boombox 2 are designed for those who demand big sound on the go. They boast impressive features, rugged designs, and the ability to fill any space with rich, immersive audio. But with upgrades and improvements, how do they stack up against each other?
In this in-depth comparison, we’ll dive deep into the specifications, performance, and features of the Boombox 3 and Boombox 2. We’ll explore everything from sound quality and battery life to design and portability, helping you decide which boombox best suits your needs and lifestyle. Get ready to discover the ultimate portable audio champion!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | boombox 3 | boombox 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth Version | 5.3 | 5.1 |
| Water Resistance | IP67 | IPX7 |
| Speaker Configuration | 3-way | 2-way |
| Frequency Response | 30 Hz – 20 kHz | 55 Hz – 20 kHz |
| Sound Modes | Indoor/Outdoor | Indoor/Outdoor |
| PartyBoost | Yes | Yes |
| USB Charging | Yes (Out) | Yes (Out) |
| Power Output (RMS) | 80W (AC) / 60W (Battery) | 60W (AC) / 30W (Battery) |
| Weight | 6.7 kg | 5.25 kg |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 482.4 x 256.9 x 197 mm | 485 x 200 x 250 mm |
| Microphone | Yes | Yes |
| App Support | Yes | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Sound Quality
- Boombox 3: The Boombox 3 features improved audio with a new three-way speaker system, offering richer bass and clearer highs. It boasts a more powerful sound output than its predecessor, making it ideal for outdoor gatherings. However, some users might find the sound signature slightly less balanced compared to the Boombox 2.
- Boombox 2: The Boombox 2 delivers a robust and balanced sound profile with deep bass and well-defined mids and highs. Its two-way speaker system still provides impressive audio quality for its size. Some users might find the bass lacks the punch of the Boombox 3, especially in larger spaces.
- Winner: Boombox 3
Power Output
- Boombox 3: With a significant increase in power output, the Boombox 3 can fill larger spaces with sound. It delivers louder volumes with improved clarity, making it suitable for parties and outdoor events. However, this increased power may lead to faster battery drain at higher volumes.
- Boombox 2: The Boombox 2 offers a respectable power output, suitable for smaller gatherings and indoor use. It provides ample volume for its size, but might struggle to compete with louder environments.
- Winner: Boombox 3
Battery Life
- Boombox 3: Battery life is rated at up to 24 hours depending on the volume level.
- Boombox 2: The Boombox 2 offers a battery life of up to 24 hours depending on volume.
- Winner: Tie
Durability & Design
- Boombox 3: The Boombox 3 retains the rugged and waterproof design, making it suitable for various environments. The updated design includes improved materials and a more modern aesthetic.
- Boombox 2: The Boombox 2 is also waterproof and built to withstand the elements, with a durable design. It features a classic boombox design that has proven to be reliable.
- Winner: Tie
Connectivity
- Boombox 3: Offers Bluetooth 5.3 for more stable and extended range. Multi-speaker pairing is supported.
- Boombox 2: Uses Bluetooth 5.1. The speaker can pair with other compatible speakers.
- Winner: Boombox 3
Portability
- Boombox 3: Despite the improved sound, the Boombox 3 maintains a similar size and weight to its predecessor, making it relatively portable for its power.
- Boombox 2: The Boombox 2 is moderately portable, with a sturdy handle for easy carrying.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- Boombox 3: Generally more expensive due to its updated features and improved performance.
- Boombox 2: Often available at a lower price point, offering a good value for its performance.
- Winner: Boombox 2
Additional Features
- Boombox 3: Features PartyBoost, allowing it to connect with other compatible JBL speakers for a larger soundstage.
- Boombox 2: Also features PartyBoost, enabling connection with other JBL speakers.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Sound Quality | boombox 3 |
| Features | boombox 3 |
| Portability | Tie |
| Value | boombox 2 |
| Bluetooth Version | boombox 3 |
| Power Output | boombox 3 |
What They Have in Common
- Portability: Both the Boombox 3 and Boombox 2 are designed for portability, featuring a handle for easy carrying, allowing you to bring your music wherever you go. Their rugged design makes them suitable for outdoor use.
- Sound Quality: Both speakers deliver powerful and clear audio, providing an enjoyable listening experience for various music genres. They both offer a well-balanced sound profile.
- Partyboost: Both speakers include PartyBoost, enabling you to connect multiple compatible JBL speakers together for an amplified sound experience, perfect for parties and gatherings.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Both models offer seamless Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to easily stream music from your smartphone, tablet, or other Bluetooth-enabled devices.
- Durability: Both speakers are built to withstand the elements, offering water resistance to protect against splashes and rain, making them ideal for outdoor adventures.
Boombox 3 vs Boombox 2 Buying Guide
Sound Quality
The Boombox 3 boasts a refined sound profile compared to its predecessor. It features improved driver configuration and a slightly tweaked digital signal processing (DSP) to deliver a more balanced and dynamic audio experience. The bass response is noticeably punchier, and the highs are clearer, resulting in a more immersive listening experience across various music genres. The Boombox 2, while still offering excellent sound, may sound slightly less refined, especially at higher volumes, with a tendency for the bass to overpower other frequencies. Overall, the Boombox 3 provides a more polished and enjoyable sound experience.
Battery Life and Charging
Both Boombox models offer impressive battery life, but the Boombox 3 edges out the Boombox 2 in this category. The Boombox 3 provides a slightly longer playback time on a single charge, allowing for extended listening sessions. Both speakers feature a power bank function, allowing you to charge external devices using the speaker’s battery. However, the charging time for the Boombox 3 might be a bit faster, ensuring you spend less time waiting and more time enjoying your music. This makes the Boombox 3 a better companion for outdoor adventures.
Durability and Design
Both speakers are built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, boasting a rugged and waterproof design. The Boombox 3 maintains a similar design aesthetic to the Boombox 2, but with subtle refinements. The materials used feel robust and capable of enduring bumps, splashes, and even submersion in water. The Boombox 3 might have slightly enhanced water resistance. The build quality of both speakers is exceptional, ensuring they can handle various environmental conditions, making them ideal for pool parties, beach trips, and camping adventures. Both are highly durable.
Connectivity and Features
Both speakers offer Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to stream music wirelessly from your smartphone or other devices. The Boombox 3 adds some enhancements to the connectivity options, such as Bluetooth 5.3 for a more stable and efficient connection. The Boombox 3 also includes PartyBoost, which lets you connect multiple JBL speakers together for a more powerful and immersive sound experience. The Boombox 2, while still supporting PartyBoost, might not have the same level of refinement. Both speakers offer convenient features for seamless music playback.
Portability and Size
Both models are relatively large and heavy, making them more suited for portability than true portability. They are designed to be carried around easily. The Boombox 3 maintains a similar size and weight to the Boombox 2, ensuring that it is still easy to transport. The size and weight are a trade-off for the powerful sound and long battery life. While not ideal for backpacking, they’re perfectly suited for carrying to the beach, a backyard barbecue, or a friend’s house. Both are easily manageable.
Price and Value
The Boombox 3 typically comes with a higher price tag than the Boombox 2, reflecting its improvements in sound quality and features. However, the Boombox 2 remains an excellent value, offering impressive performance at a more affordable price point. The best choice depends on your budget and priorities. If you prioritize the latest features and the absolute best sound quality, the Boombox 3 is worth the investment. However, if you’re looking for a great-sounding, durable speaker at a more competitive price, the Boombox 2 is still an excellent choice. Both offer great value.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy boombox 3 If…
- You want the latest Bluetooth technology (5.3) for improved stability and range.
- You prioritize slightly better sound quality and a more refined audio experience.
- You want a speaker with a more robust power output, especially when plugged in.
- You prefer a more modern design with updated features.
Buy boombox 2 If…
- You’re looking for a more affordable option.
- You don’t need the absolute latest features and are happy with excellent performance.
- You are satisfied with the excellent audio quality and battery life of the Boombox 2.
- You are already invested in the JBL ecosystem and want to expand your PartyBoost setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference in sound quality?
The Boombox 3 offers a more refined sound profile. It features enhanced drivers and DSP, delivering a more balanced and dynamic audio experience. The bass is punchier, and the highs are clearer. The Boombox 2 is still great, but the Boombox 3 provides a more immersive listening experience across various music genres.
How does the battery life compare?
The Boombox 3 provides slightly longer playback time on a single charge. Both offer impressive battery life, but the Boombox 3 has a small edge. Both speakers also function as power banks, allowing you to charge your devices. However, the charging speed for the Boombox 3 might be faster.
Are they both waterproof?
Yes, both Boombox models are waterproof. They are designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including splashes, rain, and even submersion in water. The Boombox 3 may have slightly improved water resistance, but both are built to handle various environmental conditions. This makes them ideal for outdoor adventures.
What connectivity options do they offer?
Both offer Bluetooth connectivity for wireless music streaming. The Boombox 3 has Bluetooth 5.3 for a more stable and efficient connection. Both also feature PartyBoost, allowing you to connect multiple JBL speakers. The Boombox 3 has the latest features and enhancements for better connectivity.
How portable are they?
Both are relatively large and heavy, making them more suited for portability rather than true portability. They are designed to be easily carried around. They’re perfect for the beach or backyard, but not ideal for backpacking. The size and weight are a trade-off for powerful sound and battery life.
Which is better for outdoor use?
Both are excellent for outdoor use due to their durability and waterproof design. The Boombox 3 is slightly better due to enhancements in sound quality and features. However, the Boombox 2 is still a fantastic option. Both are built to withstand outdoor conditions, making them ideal for various activities.
Which is the better value?
The Boombox 3 has a higher price, but the Boombox 2 remains an excellent value. The best choice depends on your budget. If you want the best sound, the Boombox 3 is worth it. If you want a great speaker at a lower price, the Boombox 2 is still a fantastic choice.
Final Verdict
The JBL Boombox 3 improves upon the already impressive Boombox 2, offering refined sound, extended battery life, and enhanced features. While the Boombox 2 remains a strong contender, the Boombox 3’s superior sound quality and added features make it the superior choice for those seeking the ultimate portable audio experience. The Boombox 2 is still a great option for the budget-conscious.
Winner: Boombox 3