Thinking about amplifying your next outdoor gathering? The choice between the Soundboks 2 and the newer Soundboks 3 can be a tough one, especially when you’re after that powerful, portable sound experience.
Both speakers are designed for serious volume and durability, but the Soundboks 3 brings some notable upgrades to the table. We’re diving deep into what sets these two giants apart.
From sound quality and battery life to connectivity and overall user experience, this comparison will help you decide which Soundboks is the perfect fit for your parties and adventures.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | soundboks 2 | 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Woofer Size | 10 inches | 10 inches |
| Amplifier Type | Class D | Class D |
| RMS Power | 72W RMS | 72W RMS |
| Peak Power | 126 dB SPL | 126 dB SPL |
| Frequency Response | 40Hz – 20kHz | 40Hz – 20kHz |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 4.0, 3.5mm Aux | Bluetooth 5.0, 3.5mm Aux, 2x XLR/Jack Combo |
| Battery Type | 2x 12.8V LiFePO4 | 2x 12.8V LiFePO4 |
| Battery Life | 40 hours (at 50% volume) | 40 hours (at 50% volume) |
| Charging Time | 3.5 hours | 3.5 hours |
| Weight | 15 kg | 15.5 kg |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 66 x 35 x 43 cm | 66 x 46 x 37 cm |
| Water/Dust Resistance | IP65 | IP65 |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Battery Life
- Soundboks 2: Features a 12.8V, 10.4Ah, 133Wh Lithium Iron Phosphate battery. This provides up to 40 hours of playtime on a single charge, depending on volume and music type. The battery is swappable, which is a significant advantage for extended use.
- 3: Uses a 12.8V, 7.8Ah, 100Wh Lithium-ion battery. It offers up to 40 hours of playtime, similar to the 2, but the battery chemistry is different. While still swappable, the capacity is slightly lower.
- Winner: soundboks 2
Sound Quality & Volume
- Soundboks 2: Delivers a powerful sound with a 90W RMS amplifier and a maximum output of 116 dB. It’s known for its deep bass and clear mids. While very loud, some users find the treble can be a bit harsh at maximum volume.
- 3: Boasts a 72W RMS amplifier but achieves a higher maximum output of 122 dB thanks to improved driver and amplifier technology. It offers a more refined sound profile with better clarity across all frequencies and less distortion at high volumes.
- Winner: 3
Connectivity
- Soundboks 2: Connects via Bluetooth 4.0 and has a 3.5mm AUX input. It supports pairing with another speaker for stereo sound through a cable.
- 3: Features Bluetooth 5.0 for a more stable and longer-range connection. It also includes a 3.5mm AUX input and supports wireless stereo pairing (SKAA) with other SOUNDBOKS 3 units, offering more flexibility.
- Winner: 3
Build Quality & Durability
- Soundboks 2: Constructed with a robust plywood cabinet and a metal grill, making it very durable for outdoor use. It’s designed to withstand bumps and spills.
- 3: Maintains a similar rugged build with a reinforced plywood cabinet and a sturdy grill. It’s engineered for even greater resilience and has an IP65 rating for dust and water resistance, making it more suitable for harsher environments.
- Winner: 3
Portability & Design
- Soundboks 2: Weighs 15 kg (33 lbs) and has a top handle for carrying. The design is functional and rugged.
- 3: Weighs 15.2 kg (33.5 lbs), making it slightly heavier. It retains the top handle and the overall aesthetic is similar, but with subtle design refinements.
- Winner: soundboks 2
App Control & Features
- Soundboks 2: Lacks dedicated app control. Features are managed directly on the unit.
- 3: Introduces the SOUNDBOKS app, which allows for EQ adjustments, firmware updates, and battery monitoring. This adds a layer of customization and control not present in the previous model.
- Winner: 3
Bass Response
- Soundboks 2: Known for its strong and impactful bass, which is a signature of the SOUNDBOKS line. It can shake a room and is excellent for bass-heavy music.
- 3: While still delivering powerful bass, the 3 offers a more controlled and nuanced low-end. The bass is punchy without overpowering the mids and highs, providing a more balanced listening experience.
- Winner: 3
Price & Value
- Soundboks 2: As an older model, it can often be found at a lower price point, offering excellent value for its sound output and durability if available.
- 3: Being the latest model, it comes with a higher price tag. However, the advancements in sound, connectivity, and app features justify the increased cost for those seeking the best performance.
- Winner: 3
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Sound Performance | SOUNDBOKS 3 |
| Connectivity | SOUNDBOKS 3 |
| Portability | SOUNDBOKS 2 |
| Value for Money | SOUNDBOKS 2 |
| Durability | Tie |
| Battery System | Tie |
What They Have in Common
- Design and Portability: Both the SOUNDBOKS 2 and 3 share a robust, road-ready design built for outdoor use and easy transport, featuring durable casings and integrated handles. They are engineered to withstand the elements and the rigors of frequent movement.
- Sound Quality and Power: Both models deliver impressive volume and a powerful, bass-heavy sound profile suitable for large gatherings and outdoor events. They utilize similar Class D amplification to achieve high SPL levels.
- Battery System: The interchangeable battery system is a hallmark of both generations, allowing for continuous playback by swapping out depleted batteries for fresh ones. This ensures uninterrupted music for extended periods.
- Durability and Weather Resistance: Both SOUNDBOKS speakers are built to be tough and feature an IP65 rating, meaning they are protected against dust ingress and low-pressure water jets. This makes them ideal for outdoor parties and events in various conditions.
- Connectivity Options: While the SOUNDBOKS 3 introduces newer Bluetooth, both models offer essential wired and wireless connectivity, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of audio sources.
Soundboks 2 Vs 3 Buying Guide
Portability and Design
The Soundboks 3 boasts a more refined and arguably more rugged design compared to its predecessor. While both are built for durability and outdoor use, the Series 3 features updated grille protection and a slightly more compact footprint. Consider your primary use case: if you’re frequently moving it across uneven terrain or need it to withstand more accidental bumps, the Series 3 might offer a slight edge in robustness. However, the Soundboks 2 remains a very capable and portable unit. (See Also: Demeyere 5 Plus Vs Atlantis )
Sound Quality and Features
The most significant upgrade in the Soundboks 3 lies in its audio performance. It offers improved clarity, a wider frequency response, and a more powerful bass output. The Series 3 also introduces the TeamUP and SKAA functionality, allowing for seamless wireless synchronization with multiple Soundboks speakers. If audio fidelity and advanced wireless connectivity are paramount, the Soundboks 3 is the clear choice. The Soundboks 2 still delivers a robust sound, but lacks these modern enhancements.
Battery Life and Power
Both generations are renowned for their exceptional battery life, capable of powering a party for extended periods. The Soundboks 3, however, has seen minor optimizations in power management, potentially offering slightly longer playtime under similar usage conditions. The replaceable battery packs are a common feature, ensuring you can always swap in a fresh one for continuous operation. For most users, the battery performance of either model will be more than sufficient for a full day’s event.
Connectivity and Durability
The Soundboks 3 significantly enhances connectivity with its new wireless capabilities, including the aforementioned TeamUP and SKAA. This makes setting up a multi-speaker system incredibly straightforward. In terms of durability, both are built to last, with robust enclosures and weather-resistant designs. The Soundboks 3’s updated grille and internal components might offer marginal improvements in long-term resilience, but the Soundboks 2 is by no means a fragile device. (See Also: Nikon 50 1 8 Vs 1 4 )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy soundboks 2 If…
- You are looking for a powerful and durable portable speaker and want to save some money compared to the latest model.
- You prioritize a proven track record of reliability and a slightly more compact footprint.
- Your primary use case involves outdoor parties, camping trips, or any situation where high volume and portability are key.
Buy 3 If…
- You want the absolute latest in SOUNDBOKS technology, including improved Bluetooth connectivity and potentially a more refined audio experience.
- You value the added input options, such as the XLR/Jack combo inputs, for more professional or versatile audio setups.
- You are willing to invest a bit more for the newest features and the peace of mind that comes with the most current iteration of the product.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main sound quality differences?
The Soundboks 3 offers a noticeable improvement in sound quality over the Series 2. It delivers a more refined audio experience with better clarity across all frequencies, especially in the mid-range. The bass is also punchier and more controlled on the Series 3. While the Soundboks 2 is still very loud and capable, the Series 3 provides a more immersive and detailed listening experience.
Is the Soundboks 3 significantly louder than the Soundboks 2?
While both are incredibly loud speakers, the Soundboks 3 generally feels a bit more powerful and can reach higher volumes with less distortion. The improvements in driver technology and amplification contribute to a more impactful sound at maximum output. However, the difference might not be night and day for everyone; both will easily fill a large space with sound.
What is the TeamUP feature on the Soundboks 3?
TeamUP is a proprietary wireless synchronization technology exclusive to the Soundboks 3. It allows you to wirelessly connect multiple Soundboks 3 speakers together, creating a powerful stereo or multi-room sound system. This feature uses SKAA technology for reliable, low-latency audio transmission, making it ideal for larger events where you need consistent sound coverage. (See Also: Samsung Pro Vs Evo 850 )
How does battery life compare between the two models?
Both the Soundboks 2 and 3 are celebrated for their impressive battery life, often lasting 30-40 hours on a single charge depending on volume. The Soundboks 3 has seen some minor optimizations, potentially offering slightly longer runtimes in certain scenarios. Crucially, both models feature easily swappable battery packs, allowing for continuous operation by simply replacing a depleted battery.
Is the Soundboks 3 worth the upgrade if I already own a Soundboks 2?
If you prioritize the absolute best sound quality, enhanced wireless connectivity for multi-speaker setups, and the latest features, then the Soundboks 3 is a worthwhile upgrade. However, if your Soundboks 2 still meets your needs for loudness and battery life, and you don’t require advanced wireless linking, it remains a very capable speaker.
Final Verdict
The Soundboks 3 represents a significant evolution over its predecessor. With its enhanced audio clarity, improved bass response, and the game-changing TeamUP wireless connectivity, it offers a superior user experience, particularly for those looking to create larger sound systems. While the Soundboks 2 remains a formidable portable speaker, the Series 3 pushes the boundaries of what a portable party speaker can achieve.
Winner: Soundboks 3