Best Bluetooth Speaker (2026): JBL, Sonos, Marshall, and More Leave a comment
A part of LG’s xboom collaboration with producer, Black Eyed Peas star, and tech obsessive will.i.am, the Stage 501 is a mighty 25.8-pound occasion starter. Its 2.2-channel setup combines twin 5.25-inch woofers with two 2.5-inch full-range drivers. Collectively they’re able to 160 watts on battery or 220 watts plugged in. In easier phrases: It simply crammed an enormous workshop area with rave-ready bass, and sufficient quantity for a correct occasion.
What shocked me greater than the occasion capabilities was that it additionally sounds acceptable at low quantity in my workplace. I used to be anticipating a pint-sized PA system, however dialled again to informal listening quantity and it remained composed. Typically, audio system designed for loud actually battle with quiet, and simply sound muddy, however that wasn’t the case right here. Sure, it prefers it when persons are dancing, however it manages nicely whenever you’re chilling out too.
The xboom app is superb, with EQ, AI Karaoke, synchronized lighting, and a few tacky however irresistible DJ punch buttons. LG has additionally included two very smart smartphone/pill stands that place your machine on the excellent angle for karaoke nights. It comes with two mic inputs, however you will have to purchase microphones individually.
Battery life is “as much as” 25 hours, and the battery itself is replaceable. It’s huge, and never as grown-up sounding because the Soundbox Combine, however it’s cheaper and has a surprisingly good LED mild present characteristic that I anticipated to hate, however didn’t. Celebration on dudes.
Honorable Mentions
Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 (Gen 3) for $399: Gorgeously designed, flawlessly completed, and one of the covetable Bluetooth audio system round. The brushed aluminum puck has barely modified since 2016, which says lots concerning the power of Cecilie Manz’s unique design. The newest model provides a richer, extra highly effective 360-degree sound from its 3.25-inch woofer, 0.6-inch tweeter, and 60 watts of amplification. It’s IP67 rated, lasts as much as 24 hours, and is appreciably extra repairable and upgradable. I adore it, however it’s just a bit too costly when the KEF Muo exists and sounds nearly as good because it does.
Soundboks Combine for $799: The 21.4-pound Soundboks Combine is tremendously loud, with a 10-inch woofer, 1.2-inch tweeter, and 40-hour replaceable battery. WIRED author Parker Corridor measured 111 decibels from a meter away, and was shocked at how musical it remained quite than simply battering you with quantity. IP65 safety, sturdy handles, and rubberized tennis-ball type corners make it significantly nicely suited to outside events. It’s costly and heavy in comparison with the brand new breed of occasion audio system from manufacturers like LG and Sony, however it’s very good at what it does.
JBL Cost 6 for $150: It’s simply too huge to be our absolute favourite Bluetooth speaker, however it was an in depth run factor between two very good JBL choices. The nice sound and portability of the Flip 7 gained out, however the 40 watts from the Cost 6 ship extra bass and scale, whereas sustaining element. Battery life stretches to 24 hours, and also you additionally get IP68 safety, Auracast, app EQ, USB-C lossless playback, and reverse charging. At the moment on sale too, making it an actual cut price at $150.
