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UE Boom speaker review - perhaps the best portable sound. Hi-fi and hi-end components (miscellaneous) - tests Portable acoustics ue boom 2

Fifteen hours of work offline, interesting body design, iOS/Android software allows you to select an equalizer, set an alarm. And finally, UE Boom even has a tripod socket (!) - if you need it, be sure to write in the comments.

Design, construction

The column looks great, the cylinder is sheathed with some kind of dense fabric, on the official website they say that the case is protected from water - apparently, from drops. Or maybe not, the kit includes a cover for USB connectors and AUX, if desired, you can close all the holes. By the way, the connectors are on the bottom, don't be surprised by the ring, there is a thread for a tripod (!). This is exactly what I'm seeing for the first time. Under the minus button is the NFC area, you can connect the column to a device that supports this technology. The column is available in several colors, and the color of the matte plastic and the fabric itself are different.

I got the white and blue UE Boom, there is also black with red accents, green with blue, pink, red and white with yellow. There are colored inserts in the volume buttons at the end, it is very reminiscent of a cross, and not for me alone. Nowhere without a nameplate with the company logo, this is already becoming a rule for manufacturers of a wide variety of equipment.







Control

Two large volume buttons bluetooth button, inclusions - that's all. Light indicators done neatly, when you turn on the UE Boom, an interesting sound is heard, something like drums (probably a bongo). The same sound when turned off and during any other actions with the column. There were no problems with pairing. If you press the volume buttons at the same time, the column will tell you the remaining time.



Program

Eat free program for iOS/Android, I downloaded the iOS version. There is a visual guide to the main functions, let's talk about some separately:

  • Two UE Boom speakers can work as a stereo pair or play the same track on their own
  • There is a microphone here, so you can use the speaker as a speakerphone (I tried it, everything is fine, but the interlocutors say that the voice volume is low)
  • Alarm clock, set in the application, you can select a track from the library, Internet radio or a built-in melody as a signal
  • The speaker firmware can be updated, for this you need to download the firmware file, there is software for both OS X and Windows, connect the device using a microUSB cable, run the utility and wait for the end. Some features cannot be used without a software update
  • Equalizer presets, four settings in total: loud (universal), bass boost, privacy (strange name), voice, best for podcasts, movies - if you decide to watch on iPad or iPhone
  • General settings columns, you can change the name, see the battery charge, select desired language notifications, equalizer settings, view software version
  • Supports Bluetooth connection to two devices at the same time. Let me remind you, in addition to Bluetooth, you can use a cable

Do I need to install a program? Yes, you need, you get additional features.

Nutrition

The column can work for about 15 hours, the operating time is sincerely surprising: it seems, small device, but you will not need an outlet soon. That is why I would recommend UE Boom to anyone who often goes out into nature, rides bicycles, goes on picnics. I can't wait for the warm weather to be able to do all this. Please note that a cheerful yellow cable is included, on the bottom of the device there is a microUSB connector.


When connected to an iPhone, the column charge indicator is displayed on the display.

Sound

For me, the standard for speakers of this form factor is the JBL Pulse. This is where they contrived and did an incredible thing both in terms of design and in terms of sound.

UE Boom doesn't have any lights, but the sound quality is good, especially if you play with the equalizer (I liked the privacy setting) and don't try to turn on bad quality tracks, you can hear very well if there is some kind of dust. At maximum volume, the bass does not break into a wheeze, there is a noticeable sound effect around, listening to electronics is a pleasure, not electronics either. The best option for trips and picnics.


Still, compared to the Pulse, there is a slight lack of low frequencies. Everything else is great. If you're interested, listen to this recording as well.

conclusions

In the USA, the speaker costs about two hundred dollars, we are asked for 10,000 rubles for it - in my opinion, this is expensive, few people know about Ultimate Ears, and even more so about UE Boom. However, if the price does not bother you, feel free to buy. Withstands being at the beach, great app for iOS/Android, possibility self update Software, preset selection, connection of any equipment via Bluetooth or cable, good sound quality, cool design. If you need special effects, JBL Pulse is worth buying. If not, pay attention to UE Boom, I liked the column.

And yet, 15 hours of battery life is serious.

Sergey Kuzmin ()

UE Boom 2 Bluetooth speaker review

The UE Boom speaker has been at the top of our site's list of best portable Bluetooth speakers for over two years, and so we were quite intrigued when we learned that UE had released updated version this model. Like all similar speakers, UE Boom 2 can receive sound signal from almost any mobile gadgets (tablets or smartphones), regardless of the applications running on them and the type of operating system.

Externally, the novelty looks almost the same as base model. The two speakers are indeed very similar, although the UE Boom 2 has some minor but important changes. The new speaker, which is available in six different colors, has a thicker protective fabric, making it more durable. In addition, the flap that covers the connectors is now more accurately integrated into the panel and therefore does not protrude above the panel when closed.

Other outward change speaker is to make the UE Boom 2 completely waterproof. The previous version was only waterproof, but this model has full protection against moisture (according to the iPX7 class), that is, it can withstand immersion under water to a depth of 1 meter for 30 minutes, as well as falling water drops from a height of 1.5 meters. UE claims that even if you forget to close the valve that protects the USB connector and audio input, water will still not get inside the speaker cabinet.

All other changes in UE Boom 2 are related to its filling. UE has completely updated the driver in the speaker, so now it sounds not only a little better, but also 25 percent louder. Like other Bluetooth speakers, the UE Boom 2 has some distortion at high volumes on some tracks, but most users will be impressed by how powerful and rich the UE Boom 2 can sound given its size.

Due to the use of a different speaker, the UE Boom 2 is a bit heavier than the previous version. UE also introduced playback controls in the new model - by pressing on the top of the speaker you can pause listening, and double-tapping allows you to skip a track (in order to use this control, UE Boom 2 must be held in your hand).

Other new features include the ability to over-the-air update device firmware using special application UE, without the need to connect the speaker to a PC.

As with the rest of the company's speakers, you can connect Boom 2 to another UE speaker without cables, and in the future the total number of speakers connected in this way will reach ten. If you combine two speakers, you can choose whether they work as a stereo pair or as two separate speakers for use in different rooms.

As for time battery life, then it is 15 hours when listening at medium volume, which corresponds to the original model. Bluetooth connection range when using modern smartphones, according to the manufacturer, is up to 30 meters, but in the line of sight and without obstacles. My testing has shown that the 20m range is quite stable, and this is in any case higher than the standard 10m range of most Bluetooth speakers.

Sound quality

We first compared the Boom 2 to the original Boom, and immediately noticed that the new speaker sounded louder and more bassy, ​​and overall better quality. The difference is not too significant, but the Boom 2 does provide a richer sound than the previous version.

We then compared Boom 2 with JBL Charge 2+. JBL may not sound as loud, but its tonal balance is warmer and bass is deeper (Boom 2 low frequencies more percussive), and this sound has its fans.

If you're on a budget, the JBL Charge 2+ or Flip 3 (which is about half the price of the Boom 2) might be your best bet. Don't ignore the unusual UE Roll speaker, which is also half the price of the Boom 2. However, these speakers all have a directional sound, while the Boom 2 has a wide soundstage - UE claims this speaker has a 360 degrees) by the directivity pattern - which is confirmed by listening to it in the open air. Charge 2+ also sounds good outdoors, but has a narrower "radius" than Boom 2. By the latter, I mean that if you move away from both speakers by 5-10 meters, then the perceived sound of Boom 2 will be richer and more qualitative. .

However, even a speaker as good as the Boom 2 suffers from the same drawbacks that all Bluetooth speakers, even the best ones, have. They accurately convey mids (i.e. vocals), making songs like Sam Hunt's Take Your Time or Laura Marling's Strange sound clear and powerful. However, recordings with accentuated bass - such as Miguel's Coffee - will sound a bit rough. But in any case, Boom 2 fits very well for daily background listening.

Conclusion

Sure, the price looks high, but like the base model, it's one of the best Bluetooth speakers out there and will good choice especially if you need a protected speaker for outdoor use.

Rating - 8.4 out of 10

BEHIND

The UE Boom 2 is a compact, rugged Bluetooth speaker that sounds louder and slightly better than the base Boom. It has a waterproof shockproof case, and the battery provides up to 15 hours of operation of the device. In addition, UE Boom 2 can be combined with another such speaker for stereo sound.

AGAINST

The price is high

Conclusion:

UE added one of our favorites to the design wireless speakers small but important changes made it waterproof and improved sound quality.

During the summer holidays, travel, vacations and other entertainment events, you want to have high-quality acoustics at hand. For example, you came to the beach, to a stream or lake with a large company, fry a barbecue, you want to turn on some kind of musical accompaniment for all this happiness. Apparently, recently travel and leisure became very popular, as portable acoustics began to be sold many times more actively. It has always been nice to have a cool speaker in your backpack that can play your favorite tracks loud and clear, and now you have a lot of options in terms of choosing and buying even not very expensive portable acoustics. Almost all manufacturers that are at least somehow connected with electronics began to produce their own acoustics and it pleased us not only with the build quality, but also with the sound quality, design and the ability to use it not only on hikes and travels, but also at home. No one is stopping you from taking portable speaker, connect it to power and use at home instead of speakers. Today we will tell you about the most popular and interesting models that caught our eye. There may be a lot of options, in the future they will also fall into the selection, but today these options will decrease.

Beats Pill

It's no secret that Beats acoustics have always been different. high quality and stylish design. This time, the manufacturer also decided not to surprise us too much - the same case shape, the same color options. Acoustics has acquired an NFC chip that allows you to quickly connect your device to the speaker. The device works via a wireless connection, there is a line output, so you can connect the device both at home and on a hike. Works Beats Pill at a distance of up to 30 meters via a wireless connection, the sound quality is excellent. Both the upper and lower frequencies and the middle are well heard, there is a bright and clear bass, without noise and rattling. The device is ideal for those who want to carry a cool and stylish device with them on walks around the city. True, it was not without drawbacks. For example, a speaker is often faked and the sound quality is noticeably lower there. So try to verify the authenticity of the device. It is also worth noting that you cannot install a memory card here, battery life is at the level of 5 hours, and 30 meters in fact will turn out to be no more than a dozen. Nevertheless, the cost is low, the column is definitely worth its money.

Logitech Ultimate Ears Boom 2 Phantom

Logitech has introduced a new generation of its legendary portable acoustics. Previously, Logitech Ultimate Ears Boom received a lot of awards and simply conquered the market in 2013, now the second generation has come out and it is much more attractive than many competitors. Logitech Ultimate Ears Boom 2 comes in a special case that allows you to easily transport the speaker and all accessories, inside there will be a speaker with a plastic case. In total, the manufacturer presented five options for the color design of the case. The column is protected from immersion under water - you can lower it 1 meter under water for 30 minutes and everything will be fine. In addition, the column is not afraid of shock - it can be transported in a backpack, fixed in place of the bottle on a bicycle, and so on. Naturally, the sound of the speaker is excellent, it perfectly transmits all frequencies and basses, there is a proprietary application for a smartphone, there is a long battery life of the product without connecting to a network. Although, at home, in front of the computer, the device looks good. And the cost is adequate, you can give money for such power and quality.

Samsung Level Box Pro Black

The Korean company has long been a favorite in many markets and Acustic systems Samsung also turned out very good. A novelty called Samsung Level Box Pro Black has a very high power - as much as 20 watts. This is enough to throw a real party on the street or make the neighbors of your apartment nervous. Despite the high volume, the sound turned out to be very clear, all instruments, upper and lower frequencies are easily heard, there is a bright bass, which cannot but rejoice. In terms of sound quality, this speaker is one of the best on the market. In addition, the manufacturer has tried to make the design as versatile as possible - you can use the Samsung Level Box Pro Black at home, near your TV or laptop, and on a walk with friends. Although, there is no protection from water here, and in heavy rain, we would not recommend using this particular option. The novelty wins due to its stylish design, high-quality sound and a well-known brand. One of best solutions for most users, so if you were looking for something versatile, then this is the best gadget in its category. The cost is 9900 rubles.

The House of Marley Get Together

Portable acoustics The House of Marley stands out in the market and it is immediately noticeable even on appearance devices. The column was created in the spirit of the famous Bob Marley, and this can be seen in the design of the gadget, and in the materials, and in the sound. Pulverized bamboo wood is used to make the front and back panel, which will not deteriorate over time. There are a lot of edgings of the main panel - many designers and the manufacturer himself are constantly releasing something new, but there is a feature that unites all these styles. The material is fabric and plastic, which are obtained from recycled plastic bottles and other garbage. Thus, you saved nature from pollution, and got a cool design. Four speakers are responsible for the sound here - two with a diameter of 1 inch and two with a diameter of 3.5 inches. In addition, there is quite a powerful amplifier, which ultimately gives 16 watts of power to the column. It looks great, sounds loud and clear, and there are plenty of ways to use the product. The cost, however, is 16 thousand rubles and this is a little expensive for portable acoustics.

Marshall Portable Speaker Stockwell Black

The Marshall Portable Speaker Stockwell Black is the most advanced speaker on the market. When compared to competitors, you will notice advantages in terms of frequencies, and in terms of battery life, and in terms of case materials. Covered with vinyl, it looks very expensive and stylish, it does not get dirty and is very pleasant in the hand. The output power of the speaker is 27 watts - enough for a small disco, not to mention home use or work on the beach or lake. The sound is clear and bright, frequencies from 50 to 20,000 Hz are supported, there is a decent bass, so that all modern Pop-compositions sound generally cool. The column works both from the battery and from the network, so if you want to connect the system at home, no problem. From its own battery column works up to 25 hours. It's just a huge amount of time that no other speaker can afford. The only significant disadvantage is the cost of the product - 21 thousand rubles. For the money you can get a lot of other gadgets, but this one is without a doubt the best.

In the fall of 2014, we got acquainted with an excellent, but rather expensive portable Bluetooth speaker UE Boom, which was one of the best in quality at that time (of course, from the range available to us). At the end of last year, the company announced the second version, but it got to us with a long delay. The Logitech UE Boom 2 has just arrived in our stores.

What is this?

Logitech UE Boom 2 - portable waterproof acoustics with Bluetooth modules, NFC and 3.5 mm jack mobile application with tons of features and functionality.

At first glance, the differences from the first version are minimal: the construction and design of the speakers are almost identical. In fact, there are quite a few and significant differences. Firstly, now the acoustics are protected from water according to the IPX7 standard and can withstand immersion in water to a depth of one meter for up to 30 minutes (the previous version was only splash-proof, IPX4 protection standard) and can withstand drops from a height of up to 1.5 m. Secondly , with similar dimensions, the UE Boom 2 uses larger speakers and passive radiators with more power (they promise an increase of + 25%). Of the smaller, but pleasant features: the range has increased to 33 meters (of course, in ideal conditions, in open areas) and the software component has been significantly updated.

What is in the box?

The packaging has not changed significantly: UE Boom 2 was again stuffed into a plastic cylinder with an outer cover, although now everything inside is organized a little differently and the cylinder itself has become shorter, but larger in diameter:

The speaker itself is fixed on a stand, and all accessories are hidden in a special compartment of the top cover:

The kit is similar previous version. In the box: UE Boom 2, bright yellow MicroUSB-to-USB noodle cable, matching power supply, two detachable plugs for different sockets and instructions.

What does UE Boom 2 look like?

The design of the column has not changed much, and why change an already successful and beautiful design. The UE Boom 2 is still the same small cylinder with rubberized elements, large volume buttons on the side and a "skin" made of dense, high-quality fabric that does not let water through. The column is available in six new colors.

Upon closer acquaintance, I noticed that the fabric became much denser, better quality and (visually) much more durable. The column is pleasant to hold in hands:

The top controls remain unchanged: the gadget's power button with a built-in LED and the Bluetooth pairing button:

The large control buttons remain the same. They are large and are pressed quite tightly. When pressed simultaneously, a voice is heard that notifies the state of the battery charge (there is a Russian language):

Separate playback control buttons are still not provided, but there is such an opportunity and we will talk about it a little later, when we move on to the software features. On the lower part there is a metal mount for a carabiner and connectors that are protected by a rubber plug, as in the previous model, but now this very plug is "fitted" into the speaker body:

Under the cover are MicroUSB with a small LED to indicate the charging process and a 3.5mm AUX jack for connecting the source with a cable. By unscrewing the carabiner mount, you can screw the column onto a tripod, there is a corresponding hole with a 1/4" thread. In this regard, the UE Boom repeats its predecessor:

As for the water resistance of the column, the switched-on UE Boom 2 really does not feel any problems and discomfort after being completely immersed in water:

The fabric (if you can call it that) repels most of the water and only the rubberized part of the column remains wet after removal:

The UE Boom 2 has withstood a couple of human-height drops to the floor without any marks, so the manufacturer's claim about shock resistance is also absolutely true. The first UE Boom looked great and, accordingly, the second version is no worse. Moreover, subjectively, it is assembled even better, plus a denser and more durable fabric is used.

What about the connection, working distance and proprietary software?

As in the previous version, the Bluetooth version is not specified, the manufacturer limited itself to mentioning A2DP support, the HFP1.5 profile, up to 8 devices and stated that UE Boom 2 operates at a distance of up to 33 meters (twice the previous one). In real conditions, the column worked for me without problems through two walls at a distance of about 10 meters, in open space I moved 20 meters (by eye), again, the signal was stable. There was no particular desire to measure 33 m with a tape measure, but in the conditions of a summer cottage, everything works fine. There is an NFC module that also works properly, it is located in the area of ​​the volume control buttons. There is a normal quality microphone for hands-free calls.

The branded application has been significantly updated, although the general logic and functionality have remained similar, something new has appeared, and the design has become more concise and pleasant. UE Boom 2 supports Bluetooth Smart (Bluetooth LE) and any device (of course, also supporting the corresponding specification) can remotely turn the speaker on and off. At the moment when the smartphone detects the UE Boom 2 is turned off, the power button and the battery indicator appear in the application. When turned on, the speaker emits characteristic sounds, and the schematic image on the screen is painted in the color of the connected speaker. There are four main menu sections at the bottom of the screen:

The first point is responsible for simultaneous connection to the source of two pieces at once. Interestingly, you can use not only two identical UE Boom 2. It is also possible to connect the first generation Boom or Megaboom:

The second tab is the equalizer. There are four preset modes for different cases(the "i" button in the upper left corner opens a window with tips on how to use them) and a custom one that you can customize yourself:

There is still an alarm. Functions and settings are standard: one-time or daily, volume and track. Ringing with increasing volume, you can put it off ("snooze" mode) or turn it off with a slide on the screen:

In the last tab, you can see the column serial, software version, launch a visual user manual and go to the settings. In the settings, you can change the name, notification language, notifications, enable or disable Bluetooth Smart and Tap Control:

Tap Control is a new "feature" that allows you to switch the track with a double tap on the top of the UE Boom 2 in your hand, or pause / turn playback back on with one tap. Another one new opportunity- Block party. You can switch to it with a swipe from the main screen of the application. The function allows you to connect to three sources at the same time and "twist" the music in turn:

How does it sound?

The drivers have increased in size compared to the first version: 2x45 mm (1 3/4") drivers and two passive low-frequency radiators measuring 45x80 mm (1 3/4" x 3"). For comparison, the first UE Boom had 1.5" drivers with 2" passive radiators. Frequency response: 90 Hz - 20 kHz. Maximum sound level - 90 dBa (in the previous one - 88 dBa). It is claimed that the column has become 25% louder. Unfortunately, the ability to compare with the UE Boom was not, so I will not confirm or deny this statement.UE Boom 2 still sounds great (as for this class of devices) on everything frequency range, the bass is really there and quite saturated. UE Boom 2 sounds 360°, which is especially important in nature. The volume margin was also very pleasing: the acoustics are enough for listening to music in the country without any problems, and in the room it makes sense to set it to maximum only with a very large area. For any standard apartment with an excess of stock, you should not turn it on to the maximum. Of the competitors, only the JBL Charge 2+/3 can be distinguished. They can compete in sound quality, but the JBL produces a directional sound, while the UE sounds "all-round". Plus the JBL is bigger and heavier.

How long does the battery last?

The declared 15 hours can be obtained at a low volume, but in real conditions it turns out about 11-12 hours, which is also a lot.

In the dry matter

Logitech has made excellent Bluetooth speakers even better: UE Boom 2 sounds great (of course, within the class of devices), now it is not afraid of immersion in water and falls within reasonable limits. The radius of action has become larger, while the dimensions, weight and battery life have remained at the same level (the weight has increased by only 10 g, and the diameter has increased by 2 mm). The speaker looks great, is very well made and has a number of useful features. additional features. The main disadvantage of UE Boom 2 remained unchanged. The price tag on the official website is similar to the first generation (while they were on sale): $200. In Europe, they are traditionally transformed into 200 euros, which, at the current exchange rate, amount to about 5550 UAH. The real price tag in stores is a little less than 5900 UAH.

Make it louder!

5 Reasons to buy Logitech UE Boom 2:

  • Excellent sound quality;
  • water protection according to the IPX7 standard (full immersion to a depth of 1 meter);
  • cool design and workmanship;
  • convenient application with useful features;
  • large range.

1 reason not to buy Logitech UE Boom 2:

  • High price.

It is unpleasant when progress and all sorts of trends pass by. For example, a tangible boom in secure wireless speakers. Perhaps, had it not been for the company that was acquired 10 years ago, we would not have known that we needed things like UE BOOM 2. On vacation, at sea, at parties with skateboards, graffiti, BMX, horses and midgets. In general, in places of cultural pastime, where there is a chance to drop, drown and trample your column to death.

Video review Ultimate Ears BOOM 2

Market positioning

With the positioning of BOOM 2, everything is ... interesting, let's say so. Its recommended cost is 3999 hryvnia, or $142. And she has serious competitors. The Harman Kardon Onyx Mini is unprotected and less portable, but sounds like a choir of angels. JBL Flip 4 is more affordable, but less durable and without an NFC chip. Finally, the light and music Sony SRS-XB20 is noticeably cheaper, but almost unprotected. The choice, as we see, is large and wide. BOOM 2, by the way, is the most premium option.

Equipment

The presentation column pleasantly reminds me of . There charisma flowed from every cap, here it starts with the packaging. The paper wrapper with the funny people and feature descriptions comes off to reveal a tight box of "Mr. Hipster and Ms. Abstract" art. Stylish, fashionable, youthful, as Sun Tzu said in his famous book “The table etiquette of Germany in the 18th century”.

Inside the box we see the speaker itself, fixed in place with thick suede.


The other side of the coin… that is, the box, is occupied by ancillary equipment, or rather, a microUSB cable and a three-component charger. Yes, you heard right, but I did not misspoke. Not only are all parts of the memory device made in rich yellow, but the system also fits almost all sockets in the world. Or rather, under two - European and British flat. Yes, even flatter than my jokes...

To assemble this charging puzzle, you need to fix the plug on the dedicated contact of the charger module itself until it clicks. Changing the plug is also relatively easy, the module is removed in the same way.

Appearance

Ultimate Ears BOOM 2 looks adorable. The rubberized surface blends harmoniously in color with the fabric braid, and this applies to any color, of which there are four pieces. Their names are also sonorous - Yeti White, Brainfreeze Blue, Cherrybomb Red and Phantom Black.

On top of the case is the power button, slightly pressed inward. Next to it, like a mosquito bite, there is a microphone hole with a dedicated button. A wide rubberized line stretches along the body with the UE logo and giant plus / minus, highlighted by dark slots. These are the volume control and song switching buttons.

At the bottom of the case, in addition to information about the manufacturer, there is a removable black ring for attaching to a carabiner. The name of the fastener on the official website is tripod mounting set, if anyone is interested. Nearby are two connectors - for a mini-jack and microUSB charging. They are tightly sealed with rubber plugs, and it is advisable to leave them so for a maximum of time if you want to keep the column moisture-proof.

Protection

By the way, about the birds. Ultimate Ears BOOM 2, like the entire BOOM line, is positioned as a kind of manifestation of Koshchei the Deathless in a singing form. IPX7 moisture protection is good and even excellent, the speaker can be dropped into a pool or aquarium, sharing a hot bit with the fish. The speaker also withstands impacts on the floor, asphalt, sand and other hard surfaces.

Actually, at the presentation, surviving specimens were shown, along which the car passed, and they were dropped from the bridge, and the child was allowed to play against the wall. The assembly contributes to the strength of the UE speakers - its quality is impeccable, as if you are taking an army accessory, and not a means of consuming audio content. Do not hope, however, that in the process of extreme operation it will retain its presentation - especially in white. But hey, you only live once. As, however, and the column.

Characteristics

Dimensions Ultimate Ears BOOM 2 in our physical world - 180 x 67 x 67 mm, weight in the same place - 0.548 g. This half-kilo in speaker equivalent covers frequencies well, from 90 to 20,000 Hz, signal-to-noise ratio - 90 dB. Power - 18 watts, impedance - 4 ohms, AUX impedance - 9 kOhm. There are two speakers, 45 mm in diameter, and, of course, they give out the most honest stereo sound. In addition to them, there is a pair of passive low-frequency radiators measuring 45x80 mm. Li-ion battery 3200 mAh capacity is enough to listen to music up to 15 hours. It charges in two and a half hours.

The speaker is connected via Bluetooth 4.1 or an AUX cable - which, by the way, is not included in the kit, which I attribute to the cons of the bundle. Bluetooth Hands-Free Profile is supported for calls, which is why a microphone is needed. The speaker can work with Android and iOS, but it connects to a PC only via AUX.

But it works perfectly with smartphones, remembers up to eight paired devices, can be connected to two at the same time, and one smartphone can send a signal to two BOOM 2 at once, for even more honest stereo sound. Ultimate Ears BOOM 2 has NFC support for quick pairing, the module is located near the volume buttons.

Working moments

Turning on the column is simple - click on the small button on top. BOOM 2 will say "Chiu-boo-boo-boom" and turn on. By pressing it again, she will say “Pew-boo-boo-m” and turn off. To start the pairing process with a smartphone, you need to hold down the button above the power button. The speaker will say “Tu-Tu-Tu-Tuk” twice and enter the music partner search mode. When found, she will say “Tu-tuk” and will be ready to go.

For Ultimate Ears BOOM 2, as well as for some other speakers in this series, there is a proprietary application that allows you to control the volume, adjust the five-band four-preset equalizer with manual control, set an alarm (!) and update the speaker firmware. There's also a Party Up feature that lets you chain up to 150 BOOM speakers together, including the MEGABOOM and the original BOOM. And the Block Party function allows you to have three sources connected at once and receive music from any of them in turn.

sound

How does the speaker sound? Pretty! The bass is powerful, the mids are good, the highs are crystal clear. Distortion at maximum volume is barely audible, but this is an 18-watt speaker, so you will turn up the maximum volume only in a very large company. Even at an average volume level, enough to get high to the music with barbecue in nature or by the pool.

Flaws

But I have complaints about management. Before the firmware update, Ultimate Ears BOOM 2 did not allow you to pause a song or switch to the next / previous song! Just change the volume. The power button, which should ideally have been made responsible for the pause, was reassigned to turn off from a single press. And when you press the volume buttons, nothing happens at all.

I am glad that after one of the updates, a tap on the column above pauses the track, and a triple tap switches the track. But I still don’t understand why these functions can’t be set to a single press on the power button and long presses on the volume buttons.

Results for Ultimate Ears BOOM 2

Suddenly, like a downpour of smoked herring, UE BOOM 2 burst into the world of portable acoustics, and straight into the premium sector. And this column has every chance to firmly gain a foothold there. Still, the volume, endurance, sound quality and software do their thing. In this product, only the high price, the lack of an AUX cable in the kit, and some kind of alternative-intelligent control system upset. Unfortunately for these shortcomings, they are...not enough to not hand our recommendation.