Test and review of the JBL Xtreme Bluetooth speaker: rich bass for big money

Back in 2015, at the IFA consumer electronics show in Berlin, JBL introduced the innovative JBL Xtreme portable speaker. Since then, the model has become a real bestseller, in demand among young people and outdoor enthusiasts. The JBL Xtreme speaker has several features that set it apart from its competitors. If you're looking for a quality wireless speaker, be sure to check out our review of this unique model.

A little too much of a good thing

125x285x130 mm and approximately 2 kilograms of weight - at first glance, the JBL Xtreme looks like a headless two-liter bottle. The round body offers ample space to accommodate large diaphragms and therefore provides full sound.

Especially the bass comes out of the JBL speaker very powerfully. Small models like Libratone Too cannot compare with it in this regard. However, at particularly low frequencies and high volume levels, the JBL Xtreme begins to rattle a little. When reproducing medium and high frequencies, this Bluetooth speaker does not show any particular shortcomings.

In general, the sound, although not close to our balanced leader (Dockin D Fine), can be confidently attributed to a level significantly above average. With its powerful bass, JBL Xtreme is great for parties. What’s especially cool is that anyone who owns two speakers can combine them to get stereo sound.

Deep and powerful: JBL Xtreme delivers crisp bass

Other Features

JBL has created a truly worthy product. The wireless speaker is not afraid of water, dust, high temperatures, snow or frost. She is ready to accompany you on your most daring journeys, enriching your emotions and impressions with your favorite music.

The sturdy case will withstand falls and impacts. But still, you shouldn’t take risks and test the column for strength. After all, it is made of plastic, not metal.

The documentation states that the device can withstand 15 hours of battery life. But in fact, this time is indicated for playing at medium volume. At maximum sound, the audio system will last about 10 hours.

We can't help but be pleased with the fast charging. Just 3 hours of power - and the battery is ready for long-term use again.

Unlike other models, the JBL Xtreme speaker has a Voice Logic noise-canceling microphone. Voice transmission is very clear, without interference, even in windy weather.

The only significant disadvantage of the audio system is the price. Still, not everyone is ready to pay 16-17 thousand rubles for such a device.

Equipment for pool parties and festivals

Controlling the JBL Xtreme is obviously simple: with the press of a button, you link your speaker via Bluetooth 4.1 to your smartphone, tablet, etc. You can connect up to three devices at once and use them to play music.

An AUX input is available for alternative use. In addition, the speaker can act as a power bank and simultaneously charge two devices with a current of 5 W each (current of 1 A), or one, but with a current of 10 W (current of 2 A). All interfaces are under a waterproof layer of material and can be reached through a rubberized zipper. Although this does cause some difficulties, the speaker is always protected from splashes of water.

Attention! If you are going to play loud music in a public place, try not to disturb or irritate anyone

A solid battery life is provided by a 10,000 mAh battery. During tests with pure music playback, the JBL Xtreme was able to last more than 17 hours and in this indicator is second only to the Libratone Too (about 20 hours of operation on a single charge).

In terms of the duration of the charging process, on the contrary, JBL is the undisputed leader: while this model will be fully charged after approximately three hours, Libratone will need almost twice as much time.

JBL hides all interfaces under a rubberized zipper

Design

JBL Xtreme is the largest multifunctional portable speaker in the entire brand line. The “barrel” shape looks stylish and laconic. The model is presented in 3 colors: black, blue, red. The weight of the acoustics is just over 2 kg, so you can’t easily hold it in one hand.

A distinctive feature of the speaker is the waterproof outer textile upholstery. It is securely stretched onto a plastic frame with elements of a rubberized coating. This acoustic gadget is not afraid of rain, splashes from the pool, or cocktails spilled on it.

In the center of the front panel there is a metal JBL emblem. There are rubberized control buttons on the top of the case. Alas, in the dark it will be difficult to directly control the acoustics, since the buttons are not illuminated. At the ends of the “barrel” there are movable passive diffusers with a water-repellent coating, which have long been part of the JBL design code.

There are small anti-slip feet on the bottom of the case that provide stability to the speaker. The acoustics sound best and purest when installed horizontally. There are grooves on the sides for the strap. The speaker can be hung on any convenient mount, thrown over your shoulder, or hooked onto a branch on a tree.

The manufacturer took care of the safety of the interfaces by hiding them under a zipper. Even if the speaker falls into water, not a single electronic element will be damaged when it is quickly removed. The portable speaker system is designed for active recreation, extreme sports and the most daring outdoor activities.

JBL Xtreme Specifications and Test Results

Photo: manufacturing companies

Control

Note the location of the buttons and keys. Everything is intuitive and easy to switch. The Bluetooth icon on the panel points to the button to turn on this function, which means you don't have to search around the body for it yourself.

All keys on Jbl are installed with ergonomics in mind. There is no reverse effect - to press the button you need to apply force, which means that the Xtreame speaker will not independently regulate itself in a bag or backpack.

Control of an audio speaker via Bluetooth is available on the device on which this technology is installed. You can connect not only phones to the speaker, but also players, tablets and even computers. Jbl Xtreme has a mini jack input, so you can connect a player to it via the AUX system.

Equipment

The Xtreame kit includes:

• Charging or power supply;
• A set of replaceable adapters for different types of sockets;
• Belt with carabiners or other accessories;
• Instructions for use and product warranty.

If you bought an original Jbl speaker, then immediately pay attention to the branded box with a complete set. It is large in size and has a plastic handle attached to the top for easy carrying.

Inside, each product lies in its own section. This box is convenient to use when moving if you take Xtreame Bluetooth speakers with you.

A set of plugs will come in handy when traveling - in European countries the standard of sockets does not fit our plugs, the same goes for the USA and other Western countries.

The Jbl power supply is the most short-lived item in the box. Please handle this device with care as a faulty power supply could damage your Xtreame speaker. It is recommended to change the charger for acoustics every 1.5-2 years.

In the Jbl documentation you will find detailed information about speaker control methods and connection methods. If you are unable to pair your Xtreame Bluetooth with your phone, please follow the given instructions first. Learn about safety precautions when using wireless speakers near water and how to protect your Xtreme from excess moisture.

Top 3. JBL Go 3

Rating (2021): 4.90

869 reviews taken into account from resources: AliExpress

Best price The device costs less than any Bluetooth speaker manufactured by Jibiel sold on AliExpress.

The most compact portable model fits easily into the palm of your hand thanks to its weight of 209 grams and minimal dimensions.

• Characteristics

  Average price: 2264 rub.

• Total power: 4.2 W
• Frequency range: 110–20000 Hz
• Water protection: IP67
• Battery: 730 mAh
• Autonomy: 5 hours, charging time – 2.5 hours
• Dimensions and weight: 87.5*75*41.3 mm, 0.2 kg

JBL Go 3 is the most compact and budget speaker on AliExpress. It is not very powerful, but it is quite suitable for listening to music outdoors or in an apartment. There is only one speaker, its diameter is 43 mm. The frequency range of the portable speaker is modest, so you shouldn't expect impressive bass. The signal to noise ratio is about 80 dB. This is one of the older models, so it has not only Bluetooth, but also a classic connector for a 3.5 mm plug. Reviews praise the sleek design and nice materials, as well as the good build quality of the case. Water protection is present, there are plugs on the buttons and ports. For its size, Jibiel sounds perfect, although there is a lack of bass.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Quick connection to any audio sources
• Pleasant to the touch body
• Complete moisture protection of all elements
• Minimum dimensions and weight

• Lacks bass richness
• Relatively low volume

Buy on AliExpress.com

Sound quality

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

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

In order for the music to boom 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 audio from iTunes directly to the Bluetooth device, ignoring the 2:1 computer system connected via cable. What I mean is that JBL Xtreme may well replace home speakers, and computer speakers, that’s for sure. Of course, if you are not chasing any special sound.

Let's dilute the real listening experience with the technical characteristics of JBL Xtreme :

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

Inside the speaker there are two amplifiers with a power of 20 W each. Both of them operate in bi-amping mode, that is, low and mid frequencies are amplified separately.

Let's return to the experience of using our speaker.

I liked that the acoustics cope well not only with simple dance tracks, but also with heavy types of music with a lot of instrumental parts.

I subjected the speaker to a merciless test: I launched the famous vocal and instrumental ensemble Dream Theater at 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 playback.

Of course, we cannot say that every instrument was heard simply crystal clear; we should not forget that we are, after all, reviewing a portable device. However, JBL delivers about an eight out of ten sound. Ten, as is clear, is unattainable, nine is very, very good, and 8 points is our case.

At maximum volume, it was not possible to detect rubble, wheezing, or other crime. Plus 15 points for sound quality.

Popular models

Jbl Xtreme 3 – good sound quality

The model is produced in five color options: red, blue, black, gray, camouflage. The body is made of durable plastic. At the top there are fastenings for a belt. With its help, the speaker can be carried on the shoulder.

View on Aliexpress

Technical specifications:

• acoustic type – subwoofer;
• power supply – built-in battery;
• power – 20 W;
• number of channels – 2;
• noise reduction – passive;
• acoustic design – closed;
• remote control – no;
• number of speakers – 1;
• Memory card support – yes;
• sensitivity – 96;
• voice assistant – no;
• frequency range – 20-58 Hz.

Connection and charging – via USB. Network – Bluetooth: 5.0. Supplied with belt in cardboard box. Delivery from China takes 2-5 weeks.

JBL CHARGE 4 – with power bank option

The model is popular on Aliexpress due to its versatility and high sound quality. Options include: charging other mobile devices, the ability to connect several speakers/devices simultaneously.

View on Aliexpress

Technical specifications:

• acoustics – portable;
• protection – IPX7;
• power supply – built-in battery 7500 mAh;
• power – 30 W;
• number of channels – 3;
• number of speakers – 3;
• dimensions – 22x9.5x9.3 cm;
• built-in microphone - no;
• noise reduction – passive;
• signal to noise ratio – 80 dB;
• frequency range – 60-20000 Hz.

The product is delivered in a cardboard box with instructions. The package contents are meager; a USB cable and power supply must be purchased separately.

JBL Flip 5 – one of the top sellers

The speaker runs on battery power. Autonomous mode – 4-12 hours. The body is made of polymer material and is reliably protected from splashes and dust. The seller offers more than 10 color options.

View on Aliexpress

Technical specifications:

• acoustics – portable;
• protection – IPX7;
• power supply – built-in battery 4800 mAh;
• power – 20 W;
• number of channels – 1;
• number of speakers – 2;
• weight – 540 g;
• dimensions – 18.1x7.4 cm;
• signal to noise ratio – 80 dB;
• frequency range – 65-20000 Hz.

If you have any difficulties with the settings, you can use the voice assistant. Control is carried out using a remote control. The product is delivered in a cardboard box. The packaging is rarely damaged during transportation. Delivery time is 2-5 weeks.

JBL Go 3 – ultra-compact body

The model with a miniature body will not cause any trouble while hiking or walking. The connection to a smartphone or player is wireless using Bluetooth. The sound is powerful with deep bass.

View on Aliexpress

Technical specifications:

• acoustics – portable;
• protection – IPX5;
• power supply – built-in battery;
• power – 4 W;
• number of speakers – 1;
• weight – 220 g;
• dimensions – 8.7x7.5x4.3 cm;
• sensitivity – 80;
• remote control – no;
• voice assistant – no;
• frequency range – 100-20000 Hz.

Autonomous operation – up to 5 hours. The seller offers a detailed review of the model on the website. The product has a European quality certificate.

JBL Rock – mini subwoofer

The speaker runs on battery power. One charge lasts up to 8 hours. Recharging requires 3.5 hours. The sound is high-quality with a predominance of bass. The body is made of polymers and aluminum alloy.

View on Aliexpress

Technical specifications:

• acoustics – portable;
• protection – IPX5;
• power supply – built-in 700 mAh battery;
• power – 5 W;
• number of channels – 1;
• number of speakers – 1;
• weight – 200 g;
• dimensions – 9x9x4.3 cm;
• sensitivity – 80;
• frequency range – 160-20000 Hz.

Connection with playback devices is via Bluetooth (version 4.2). The product is delivered in cardboard packaging. Delivery – 2-6 days.

JBL Boombox 2 – outdoor stereo system

The model was included in the ranking of the best portable speakers of 2022. Its popularity is due to its excellent performance and clear sound with deep bass. Battery life – up to 5 hours.

View on Aliexpress

Technical specifications:

• acoustics – portable;
• protection – IPX7;
• power supply – from mains/battery;
• power – 60 W;
• number of channels – 2;
• number of speakers – 2;
• weight – 1750 g;
• dimensions – 25x49.5x19.5 cm;
• Memory card support – yes;
• sensitivity – 80;
• frequency range – 50-20000 Hz.

The body is made of polymer material with a metal finish. Supplied in a cardboard box. The goods are not damaged during transportation.

JBL CLIP 3 – compact and powerful

Despite its small size, the speaker has high power. Foram – round. At the top of the case there is a carabiner mount. The product is protected from dust and moisture.

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Technical specifications:

• acoustics – portable;
• protection – IPX7;
• power supply: 1000 mAh battery;
• power – 3 W;
• built-in microphone – yes;
• number of speakers – 1;
• weight – 220 g;
• dimensions – 13.7x9.7x4.6 cm;
• number of Bluetooth connections – one;
• frequency range – 120 Hz.

In offline mode the device operates for up to 10 hours. The speaker is ideal for walking and traveling. When connected to a smartphone, calls are received handsfree.

JBL Pulse 4 – with color music option

JBL produces the best acoustic devices. The Pulse 4 speaker is no exception. The model is in great demand on Ali. Sound travels 360 degrees. The response distance to a smartphone is up to 10 meters.

View on Aliexpress

Technical specifications:

• Memory card support – yes;
• protection – IPX7;
• power supply – from a 7260 mAh battery;
• power – 20 W;
• built-in microphone – yes;
• number of speakers – 1;
• connections – Wi-Fi, Bluetooth;
• weight – 1260 g;
• adjustments - volume, backlight, track switching.

In offline mode, the speaker operates for up to 12 hours. It takes 3-4 hours to recharge. Supplied in a cardboard box along with instructions.

PARTYBOX 100 RU – legendary JBL sound

A model with clear sound and lighting effects will decorate any party. The built-in battery does not tie the event to a place equipped with an electrical network. In offline mode, the speaker operates for up to 12 hours. Two built-in LED strobe lights flash to the beat of the music. You can connect a smartphone, guitar or microphone to the device. It is possible to combine two units to create a speaker system. There is a power bank option.

View on Aliexpress

Technical specifications:

• Memory card support – no;
• protection – IPX7;
• power supply: 2500 mAh battery;
• power – 160 W;
• built-in microphone – no;
• number of channels – 2;
• number of speakers – 4;
• connections – Bluetooth;
• range often – 45-18000 Hz;
• remote control – yes;
• weight – 1260 g.

To buy a JBL portable speaker on Aliexpress, you need to fill out an order and make an online payment. Delivery time is from two weeks to two months.