Extreme portable speaker black. Review of the most powerful portable acoustics JBL Xtreme. Where can you buy

One of the largest portable speakers, the JBL Xtreme, was first shown at IFA 2015 in Berlin. We have already talked about it. It's time to get to know the speaker better and how to torture the neighbors with the bass. In the review, we will plunge into the nuances of the acoustics sound, and at the same time we will dip the device itself into the water. Go!

Equipment

The first thing to know about a gadget is the size of its packaging. It comes in an impressive box (32 x 20 x 20 cm), so keep this in mind if you are walking or cycling to the store. If I were you, I would park the car nearby, because you probably still need to drop into the store for milk, beer, or whatever else you usually buy there at the grocery store. By appearance boxes it is clear that we are dealing with serious hardware. From a consumer point of view, of course.

There are many boxes inside the package, each of which hides either a power cable or Charger, and can also hide the complete shoulder strap for carrying the acoustics. By the way, it is wide, adjustable in length, equipped with carabiners for fastening and, in general, very convenient.

At the very bottom, the device itself is neatly laid. There is nothing more interesting here, so let's move on.

Design

Most of the body is covered with strong fabric. Under it is a plastic frame, to which the outer upholstery is simply glued. No nanotechnology for you. The rest of the seats are covered with rubberized plastic.

The front, right in the center, flaunts a metal insert with the brand name. And on the upper side are the device control keys. The buttons for turning on and activating the JBL Connect function were placed on a soft backing. They are highlighted in white or blue, depending on the currently running function.

The rest of the keys are convex and are located in one row already on the fabric basis of the body.

I really don't like that JBL stubbornly refuses to highlight the control keys on the speaker case.

Yes, of course, the rubber buttons look great, but you need to think of something so that you can easily control playback directly from the speaker at night or in a low-light room. After all, parties are usually not lit up with angel lights, and darkness is known to be a friend of youth.

On the sides there are metal loops for attaching a strap. So I hung the column on my shoulder and forward into the city, giving those around me positive vibrations from my audio library. The main thing is to wear comfortable shoes so that if something happens you can quickly run away. Suddenly, among the passers-by there are citizens who believe that it is necessary to share not only music, but also devices. Well, this is Russia, baby!

• dimensions: 283 x 126 x 122 mm
• weight 2112 g

On the back you can find a real fly. The impression on others is made by something else. What is there! I myself, every time I took the column in hand, constantly unbuttoned and fastened the zipper. Still, JBL has a very cool idea.

The following interfaces are available:

• two full USB ports
• audio input (AUX) 3.5 mm
• power socket
• service connector under the cover

In general, lightning is used here for a reason. After all, the most important feature of the device is splash protection.

A light rain froze - not a reason to fold blankets, hide alcohol with kebabs and get ready to go home. Light frost to the party and JBL Xtreme is not a hindrance.

By the way, equipment portable acoustics moisture protection to one degree or another is the latest trend of the season. Manufacturers have learned how to get the most out of portable audio, so you need to look for new opportunities to hook target audience... And I would not say that protection against moisture and dust is some kind of far-fetched marketing gimmick. In nature, near the pool, this functionality will definitely not be superfluous. And portable sound is still intended for the street, not for greenhouse, home conditions.

If the Xtreme has managed to fall into the mud, then its body can be rinsed under clean running water. However, you cannot completely immerse the speaker in water, so at the very beginning of the review about bathing the gadget, I simply lied.

However, I did carry out some water procedures. See how merrily the water jumps on passive radiators under such a juicy Metalcore.

The higher the volume, the more the vibrations of these emitters are visible.

On sale you can find three color variations: black (like ours), red and blue. Each color looks interesting in its own way, therefore, if you are going with a purchase, you will have to make a difficult choice.

Connection

The speaker can connect to three audio sources via Bluetooth. Of course, playback from each of them occurs in turn.

• Bluetooth 4.1 (audio profile always works)
• profiles: A2DP 1.3, AVRCP 1.5, HFP 1.6, HSP 1.2

Don't be intimidated by the blue tooth version. Streaming audio content goes smoothly even from a smartphone with Bluetooth 2.1. However, this is not the fly in the ointment.

The main drawback of the column is periodic disconnections.

I do not know what could be the matter, but several times it happened that the speaker simply fell off the sound source and again, of course, did not connect on its own. I had to force pairing devices to continue playing. If anything, the distance from the receiver to the transmitter did not exceed two meters, so that's not the point. Everything was supposed to work fine.

It may be necessary to update the acoustics firmware to fix this problem. However, you cannot do this on your own, even despite the presence of a special service connector.

Sound quality

This is by far the most interesting part of the review.

And I want to say right away that the Xtreme did not disappoint. The column is very loud, perfectly fulfills the entire spectrum of frequencies, including bass.

In order for the music to drink properly, you do not need to install the device on a wooden shelf for additional resonances. The speaker booms right in your hands.

Frankly, during testing, I even got into the habit of sending sound from iTunes directly to a Bluetooth device, ignoring the cable connected computer system 2: 1. I mean, JBL Xtreme can easily replace home acoustics, and computer ones - that's for sure. Of course, if you are not chasing some special sound.

Dilute the real listening experience JBL Xtreme specifications:

• frequency range 70 - 20,000 Hz
• signal-to-noise ratio> 80 dB
• 2 x 35 mm tweeters
• 2 woofers 63 mm each
• 40W aggregate power (2 × 20 Bi-amp)
• two passive bass radiators (Bass Radiator)

Two amplifiers with a power of 20 W each are installed inside the column. Both of them work in bi-amping mode, that is, the amplification of the low and mid frequencies occurs separately.

Let's go back to the experience of using our speaker.

I liked that the acoustics does an excellent job not only with simple, dance tracks, but also with heavy types of music, where there are many instrumental parts.

I subjected the column to a merciless test: I launched the famous vocal-instrumental ensemble Dream Theater on the sound source. In general, this group is one of the most notable bands playing Progressive Metal, and this, believe me, is far from the easiest style of music from all points of view, including for reproduction.

Of course, it cannot be said that each instrument was heard simply crystal clear, do not forget that we are reviewing a portable device after all. However, JBL works out to sound about eight out of ten. Ten, as is clear, is unattainable, nine is very, very good, and 8 points is our case.

At maximum volume, blockages, wheezing and other crime could not be detected. Plus 15 points for sound quality.

Additional functionality

This is, first of all, the ability to recharge third-party devices. Under the lightning, the JBL Xtreme has two full-fledged USB ports, each of which can charge a smartphone, tablet, camera, smart watch- whatever.

If only one gadget is put on charge, then the current strength will be equal to 2 amperes, which means that charging will go faster. When two devices are connected at the same time, the output current drops to 1A per connector.

Using JBL Connect technology, several JBL Xtreme can be connected to a sound source at once, thereby pumping an already quiet party to the level of a local concert.

Other portable devices from JBL, for example, can be connected to the same circuit.

The only thing left to do is to persuade friends to buy such devices.

Of course, a microphone with noise and echo cancellation (VoiceLogic) is built into the acoustics body. In other words, the speaker can be used as a regular Hands-Free device. I pressed the play button and answered the call. Naturally, the interlocutor's voice is heard through the speakers built into the speaker, so take care of reducing the volume immediately during a call.

In practice, I have never been able to connect the device as a Hands-Free device to the phone. I tried about four different smartphones(all on Android), but immediately after pairing, the system honestly warned "no phone" every time. Most likely, bluetooth version 4.1 has nothing to do with it, since the same OnePlus Two supports this protocol.

Battery life

The manufacturer claims 15 hours of playback on a single battery charge. Of course, it all depends on the volume level and the content being played. In my case, it turned out 14 hours 15 minutes when playing at medium volume.

The capacity of the built-in battery is 10,000 mAh (37 W * h).

Don't wait at peak great autonomy... Most likely, the acoustics will work out in 5-6 hours.

A complete charge cycle takes three and a half hours. This is provided by a complete charger with 19V, 3A power supply.

It is convenient to track the remaining charge by the indicators lit on the back side.

Outcome

The acoustics cost a lot - 16 490 rubles. However, if you once again remember all the advantages and capabilities of the device, it becomes clear that the price tag is more or less adequate.

The only thing that spoiled the impression was the disconnection and the fact that the Hands-Free function did not work. This is probably due to a specific test instance. In any case, try the device before buying in a store for the above shortcomings, if, of course, they are critical for you.

I don't know if you can buy such a device yourself. Perhaps you can. For the sake of a loved one, nothing is spared. However, it's nice to receive the JBL Xtreme as a gift. Travelers and people who cannot imagine their life without music always and everywhere will appreciate the device one hundred percent. It just can't disappoint.

The sound quality is excellent here, the speaker is very loud and bass very well even without installation on resonating surfaces. It can charge your phone (even two), play in a little rain, and it looks great. This is probably the best portable speaker I've ever had in my hand. Wasn't even that good.

If I choose between the JBL Xtreme and the Infinity One, then I would buy the first one. She has protection against moisture and dirt, and this is for portable device important. In addition, it sounds a little more powerful, despite the fact that the "date" copes with this task by five.

Already on sale Price: 16 490 rubles

The JBL Xtreme speaker is the flagship speaker of its brand, unveiled at the 2015 EISA Consumer Electronics Show.

The model is equipped with 4 speakers and allows you to get a fairly loud and high-quality sound.

And, thanks to a special case, it is great for use at home and outdoors, and in extreme conditions, without fear of dirt and water.

According to representatives of the manufacturer, the company, JBL Xtreme is a worthy continuation of the brand's powerful portable speakers, suitable for picnics and noisy parties.

At the same time, the sound quality should not disappoint even true connoisseurs of music (although for this you should listen to music with a high bitrate).

A additional benefits is an possibility autonomous work acoustics for 12-15 hours.

Model parameters

Unpacking and packaging

Already on the branded box of the gadget, you can see the work of the designers who created the speaker system - although the box with the handle will only be used once, in order to bring the gadget home after purchase in a store (or delivery to the post office).

Inside the package you can find:

• column;
• two power cords with different sockets - American and European;
• power unit;
• strap for carrying the speaker system.

The supplied power supply unit resembles in appearance and weight.

This is done in order to reduce the charging time of the speaker system - a regular low-current adapter will charge it for at least 10 hours.

Design

The acoustics are available in 4 colors - although the sides of all variants are equally gray.

The easiest and most popular option- black, suitable for all users and conditions.

The khaki-style colors may seem more original, and the red and blue speakers are intended for the youth audience.

Thanks to its original design, the gadget attracted attention even at the IFA exhibition.

Although popularity came to him not only because of the colors (which is repeated in different models of the company's portable acoustics), but also thanks to a unique product demonstration.

At the stand, it was periodically watered with water, showing a high level of protection.

Looking at the gadget up close, the following can be noted:

• the shape of the "barrel" is combined with a column with massive dimensions - it is rather difficult to hold it in one hand (especially, taking into account more than two kilograms of weight);
• in the lower part there are rubber feet, on which the acoustics are usually installed;
• the body is completely covered with black or colored mesh fabric;
• at the back there is an orange (for all versions) lightning, behind which there are two USB ports at once (with which you can recharge other gadgets - but you cannot), a headphone jack, a service connector and a power connector;
• on the back of the device there is also information about it, including the logos of the technologies used in the development of technologies.

The sides of the speaker have a rather original look, on which the membranes of low-frequency emitters with large brand logos are located.

Rubber on the protruding edges of the case reliably protects these elements from damage during a fall.

Although you should still be very careful when using a column - membranes can be called the most fragile part of it.

Another characteristic detail for the speaker system is the orange metal nameplate, on which the company logo is located.

In addition to this element, there are no identification marks and signs of the presence of speakers (which are located under the cover) on the front of the device.

But at the top you can see two rings to which the carrying strap is attached, here are the buttons with which you can control the sound volume, turn on wireless communication and switch tracks.

You should know: Switching the operating modes of the column is accompanied by a corresponding signal. So, for example, when turned on, the device emits a sound similar to starting a car engine.

Sound

Already only one device specification ( range 70-20000 Hz 80 dB noise-to-signal ratio) shows that the sound will be loud enough and of high quality.

The sound test in practice confirmed the power of 63 mm membranes, the sound of which is so powerful that it is not recommended to listen to them at full volume in a small closed room (apartment and, moreover, a room).

Although at the middle level, the system is quite capable of replacing the conventional 2.1 audio system.

Sometimes, when listening to music, you may notice that the sound is too "dry" - especially when playing a classical melody.

However, rock music, hip-hop or jazz (the main styles for which the system is intended for fans) are played on the very high level... Sometimes you can even hear tones that are not reproduced by conventional speakers.

A small disadvantage of the audio system can be called not very effective selection of individual instruments.

Sometimes the notes just merge, which may not be very pleasant for.

However, all these problems disappear when the speaker is playing outdoors - there is much less distortion, the volume increases and can even be set to the maximum level (at least in nature or on a sports field, it will look more natural than in an apartment).

Battery

Considering the autonomy of the gadget, we can draw conclusions about a slight exaggeration made by the manufacturer when specifying the characteristics of the JBL Xtreme.

In fact, the indicator of 14-15 hours of sound can be reached only at the very beginning of use - over time, the capacity decreases, and after a while the column is able to work without recharging for only 7-10 hours.

However, even a battery that has already been in operation provides the acoustics longer than almost any other analogue.

In addition, its owner does not need to worry about the need to recharge the column for the whole day (it is enough to do this in the morning).

Moreover, the gadget does not support- although you can do the opposite, that is, charge the portable charger from JBL Xtreme.

The device only needs 3.5 hours to replenish the battery charge.

However, its owner should know that the battery is not protected from overcharging (this, by the way, is one of the reasons for the rapid decrease in its capacity over time).

Therefore, when connecting the speaker to the network, it should be turned off exactly 3.5 hours later.

Functionality

The number of functions of the column is quite consistent with its cost (not too high, but far from low).

Among them are:

• possibility of placement in any position- the acoustics works great when placed vertically and horizontally, when installed on a surface or suspended);
• charging other devices- for example smartphones, mp3 players, regular phones(with a suitable adapter) and even power banks, although, for example, tablets cannot be charged from acoustics;
• Bluetooth connection of 3 other devices at once- for example, 3 phones or computers, laptop and tablet;
• audio playback using a wired connection(while the sound quality does not get better or worse);
• combining two identical speakers using the JBL Connect function- this allows not only to get a high volume, but also to provide additional sound effects;
• use as a speakerphone for a smartphone- with the help of such a column and almost any technology supporting Bluetooth phone you can, for example, hold conferences.

A large speaker system for 16 490 rubles with water protection, two USB ports for charging smartphones and tablets, a speakerphone, JBL Connect function for connecting several speakers and other chips ...

Design, construction

At JBL, they consistently create solutions in a wide variety of segments, and it's increasingly difficult for me to talk about positioning. For example, HARMAN has the Infinity brand and the One speaker, which is similar in size to the Xtreme. Can you replace one with another? Probably not, because the Xtreme is water resistant. But if this is not critical, both systems are similar in size, and in the way they sound.

By the way, Infinity One is somehow bypassed by the press and consumers, it seems to me, in vain, the system plays great for its size.

But back to Xtreme. The speaker is available in three colors: blue, black and red. There is protection against splashes, but at IFA representatives of the company poured water on the Xtreme with might and main from a bucket, we will prepare our own video, the column easily survived a short-term immersion in water entirely, the main thing is not to forget to close the zipper on the back. I really liked this very lightning, under the sealed fastener there are two USB connectors for charging two gadgets at once (a 10,000 mAh battery is installed in the column), a network connector, AUX and microUSB for software updates.

As in the updated Flip and Charge, the velvety rubberized plastic is used, and I also really like the fabric with a special treatment. Looks great. By the way, if you run your hand over the photo of the column on the package, then you will also feel the fabric, a small detail, but it shows the attention of designers to the little things.

There are strap mounts on the top of the speaker, it is a pity that it is not included in the package. The column is rather difficult to hold in one hand, weight - 2112 grams, dimensions - 126 x 283 x 122 mm.

At the ends there are movable passive diffusers, they have long been part of the JBL design code, other manufacturers are adopting the solution. It looks very impressive if the column is at the end and you pour water onto the diffuser, it splashes back. But, in general, it's better not to indulge in this.

Here is what Evgeny Konov, director of the Russian representative office of HARMAN, says about the speaker: “JBL Xtreme successfully continues the balanced line of portable speaker systems of the brand: now the assortment has“ its own ”speaker for large companies that sometimes do not mind throwing noisy parties with ultra-loud music. At the same time, the reproduction quality will not disappoint even sophisticated music lovers: the engineers have done everything to ensure that you recognize the legendary JBL sound from the first note. Combine that with the water and dust protection of the case and the 15 hour battery life, and you have the recipe for the perfect speaker for a big outdoor party. "

In general, this is how you can define the positioning of the device, a large speaker for large parties. Well, Xtreme can be simply used at home as the only one. music Center and for a computer, and for a smartphone / tablet, and even for a TV, if you do not have expensive acoustics or soundbar.

Control

On the bottom are hidden indicator lights showing the remaining battery life, at the top is a typical set of buttons, very good that they are made convex. These are Play / Pause, volume control, power buttons and activation of pairing mode (Bluetooth icon). A strange button with a symbol that looks like an hourglass will help you connect multiple speakers and play the same music simultaneously on all devices. I have not tried this function, but I tried another one, when you connect three smartphones, tablets or computers at once and play the sound alternately from each. When you connect the second smartphone, the first one turns off, then he finds himself, after that you start the music from one or from the second - at a party you can thus interrupt a friend trying to put Igor Nikolaev. More details in our video, we will soon add here. The chip works great, I highly recommend using it when the company is going.

Sound

First, a few characteristics:

• Transducer: Woofer 2 x 63mm
• Tweeter: 2 x 35mm
• Rated power: 2 x 20W Bi-amp (AC mode)
• Frequency response: 70 - 20kHz
• Signal-to-noise ratio:> 80dB

And I must also say that there is a microphone with a noise canceling system, it is very comfortable to talk in a quiet place, I did it in the bathroom while I was shaving and water was flowing in the sink. This had little effect on the quality of communication.

Bluetooth 4.1 profile, the firm does not say whether the aptX codec is supported. But there are two amplifiers operating in “bi-amping” mode (separate amplification of low and mid frequencies), thanks to which the sound is not only incredibly energetic and deep, but also surprisingly clear even at the peak of volume. Two passive diffusers will allow you not only to hear, but also to feel and even see the bass ”. What is JBL's signature sound, I don't really understand, but the speaker sounds good with a wide variety of music. I, of course, mostly had electronics, fortunately, they celebrated a housewarming and there was a reason to use just this column - it's not scary to pour it over with wine, it's easy to move it from room to room. Here's an example of music.

As I said, there is a lot similar to the Infinity One, the volume is large, the bass is energetic, there is no dip in the middle frequencies - in general, the sound is dense, especially if the track is of high quality. The difference when used with the iPhone 6 Plus is noticeable when using different players. If you have a FLAC selection, I advise you to try Xtreme with a Vox player, passive radiators can not only move beautifully from side to side here, but also cool and violently convey you the emotions of both the techno track and Tchaikovsky's compositions. Once I advised you the DG Discovery (Deutsche Grammophon) program, where there are collections of classical music for every taste, I will advise you at the same time again.

All in all, the JBL Xtreme sounds very good.

Working hours

It takes 3.5 hours to charge from your power supply, while the claimed operating time is about 15 hours. An excellent result for a column of this size. Well, let me remind you again that there are two USB ports for charging your gadgets.

conclusions

If you need all the features of JBL Charge 2 +, the ability to charge gadgets, a microphone, JBL Connect, but also need serious sound for your home, summer cottage or outdoor party, then here is the Xtreme. At the end of the day, we figured out the positioning. It seems that JBL really tried to make a big Charge and offer users a completely democratic price, RRP 16 490 rubles. It seems to me quite fair. Like all the latest JBL products, I highly recommend this interesting device. I hope to tell you about the updated Pulse soon, it’s really something.

The JBL Xtreme 2 is a full-featured portable Bluetooth speaker that effortlessly reproduces stunningly powerful stereo sound through four active transducers and two JBL passive radiators.

The column is equipped with four drivers, two visible passive radiators, a rechargeable lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 10,000 mAh, supporting up to 15 hours of playback. Have portable speaker there is also a convenient USB connector for charging external devices. The Xtreme 2 has an IPX7 water resistance rating, making it resistant to any weather and even the most ambitious pool parties. Together with JBL Connect +, the speaker can wirelessly connect over 100 JBL Connect + devices to enhance your listening experience and make your party even louder. Do not forget that it is perfect solution for any home. JBL Xtreme 2 delivers quality sound anywhere, whether in the living room, by the pool or in the backseat of your car.

There are sturdy metal lugs around the edges, to which a carrying strap attaches. If desired, you can use it to fix the column on the wall. Or hang it on the door in the shower, in general, the belt can be useful not only for carrying, but also for everyday use.

In work

The Xtreme has the largest and most powerful subwoofer of any JBL portable speaker, so bass is strong, expressive and rich. Electronic music lovers will appreciate it. But in general, I would not say that Xtreme is clearly "sharpened" for any genre. Classical compositions sound no less pleasant, as well as clear vocals. And even the classic guitar solos on Iron Maiden's songs sounded great.

The volume reserve is enough for a room measuring 10x10 meters. On the street in a quiet place, you can count on normal audibility at a distance of 7-8 meters - more than enough for a small party in the fresh air. At maximum volume, the Xtreme does not wheeze at all. The only thing you can find fault with is a small jump in volume at the beginning of playback via Bluetooth. And, most likely, this occurs due to the difference in the volume level on the speaker itself and on the smartphone.