JBL Xtreme 4 Review
Discover the JBL Xtreme 4, your ultimate outdoor party speaker with rich sound, rugged design, and impressive 15-hour battery life. Is it worth the hype? Find out now!
check best priceSummary / TL;DR
The JBL Xtreme 4 is a robust portable speaker designed for outdoor use, boasting impressive sound quality with rich bass and clear mids. Its rugged build and IP67 rating ensure durability and water resistance, making it suitable for various environments. The speaker offers up to 15 hours of battery life, though high volumes and bass-heavy tracks may reduce this. It features Bluetooth 5.1 for stable connectivity, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a USB port for charging devices, though it lacks Wi-Fi connectivity.
The design includes intuitive control buttons and a convenient carrying strap, although its 4.8-pound weight may be a drawback for those seeking ultra-portability. The sound performance is generally excellent, though highs can be sharp at maximum volume, and the speaker lacks built-in EQ customization. The package includes the speaker, a power adapter with regional plug attachments, a shoulder strap, a quick start guide, and a warranty card, but no additional cables.
Overall, the JBL Xtreme 4 offers a strong combination of sound quality, durability, and battery life, making it a valuable investment despite its higher price point and minor shortcomings. It's ideal for those who need a reliable, high-performance speaker for outdoor adventures and social gatherings.
If you like this review, you might also like our review on the JBL Xtreme 3.
Introduction
Looking for a powerful mobile speaker that can handle your next outdoor party or chill session at the beach? The JBL Xtreme 4 might just be the perfect fit for you. This speaker packs a mean punch with its impressive features and robust build. But does it live up to its hype?
Right out of the box, this beast of a speaker aims to impress. Whether you're a bass head or someone who loves crystal-clear highs, the JBL Xtreme 4 promises to deliver a rich and immersive audio experience. It's designed to be your go-to speaker for any occasion, boasting a range of features that cater to varied audio needs.
In this review, we'll break down everything you need to know about this mobile speaker, from its design and build quality to its sound performance and battery life. We'll also take a closer look at its connectivity options and durability, making sure you get a well-rounded understanding of what this speaker can do.
So, is the JBL Xtreme 4 all it's cracked up to be? Let's find out.
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Design and Build Quality
The JBL Xtreme 4 is a beast when it comes to design and build quality. It’s got that rugged look and feel, making it clear that this speaker means business. The first thing you’ll notice is its sturdy construction. This thing feels like it could survive a minor tumble or two without breaking a sweat.
The cylindrical shape with rubberized ends not only adds to its durability but also makes it easy to carry around. The fabric material covering the speaker is both sleek and practical. It’s tough enough to protect against scratches and scuffs, but also adds a bit of style to the overall look. The integrated carrying strap with a built-in bottle opener is a neat touch. It makes it super convenient for those outdoor adventures or even just a day at the park.
On the downside, the speaker is a bit on the hefty side. Weighing in at around 4.8 pounds, it’s not the most lightweight option out there. But hey, that weight comes with a reason – it’s packed with tech and has a solid battery inside. If you’re looking for something ultra-portable, this might not be your first pick. But if you can handle the extra pounds, it’s totally worth it.
The control buttons are intuitive and easy to use. They’re raised and have a nice tactile feel, so you won’t have to squint or fumble around to adjust the volume or pause your tracks. The passive radiators on both ends not only pump out great sound but also look cool when they’re in action.
Overall, the design and build quality of the JBL Xtreme 4 are top-notch. Sure, it’s a bit heavy, but you’re getting a durable and stylish speaker that’s built to last and can handle a bit of rough and tumble.
Sound Performance
Let's dive into what really matters—the sound performance of the JBL Xtreme 4. This speaker packs quite a punch, and it's not shy about it. If you’re into rich bass and clear mids, you’re in for a treat. The bass is deep but not overwhelming, making it perfect for those thumping dance tracks or your favorite rock anthems.
One of the standout features is its 360-degree sound. No matter where you’re standing, you’ll get a consistent and immersive audio experience. Ever had that moment where you move to a different spot and the sound quality changes? Yeah, that doesn't really happen here. The audio remains balanced and full-bodied, even at higher volumes.
However, no product is perfect. While the highs are generally crisp, they can occasionally come off a bit sharp at max volume. It's not a deal-breaker, but if you’re an audiophile with a penchant for pristine high notes, you might notice it.
Another great aspect is the dual passive radiators. These bad boys enhance the bass response and make every beat feel more dynamic. It’s like having a mini concert wherever you go.
For those who love to tweak their sound settings, the Xtreme 4 doesn’t offer much in terms of customizable EQ settings directly on the speaker. You’ll need to use an external app or your device’s settings for that.
Overall, the sound performance of this speaker is impressive and versatile, making it a solid choice for various music genres and environments. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just chilling in your room, this speaker delivers a robust and satisfying audio experience.
Battery Life
One of the key features that everyone looks for in a mobile speaker is how long it can keep the party going. The battery life on the JBL Xtreme 4 is pretty impressive. With a full charge, you can expect up to 15 hours of continuous playback. That's more than enough to power through a day at the beach, a backyard BBQ, or even a spontaneous road trip. Now, here’s the kicker: if you’re blasting your music at max volume with a lot of bass-heavy tracks, that battery life might drop a bit. It's always a good idea to have a portable charger handy if you're planning a marathon listening session.
The speaker comes with a rechargeable Lithium-ion battery that takes around 3.5 hours to fully charge. That’s relatively quick, considering the extended playtime you get in return. Plus, it has a nifty feature where you can use it as a power bank to charge your devices. So, if your phone runs out of juice, the JBL Xtreme 4 has got you covered. However, one minor drawback could be the weight of the speaker. At around 4.6 pounds, it's not the lightest option out there. This might make it slightly inconvenient to carry around all day, especially if you’re on foot. But for the battery life it offers, this trade-off seems pretty fair. In summary, the battery life on the JBL Xtreme 4 is robust and reliable, making it a solid choice for those who need their music to last as long as their adventures do.
Connectivity Options
So, let’s talk connectivity. This speaker has got you covered with a range of options that make it super versatile. First off, Bluetooth 5.1 is the star of the show. This means you get a stable connection with your devices and can wander pretty far without losing the signal. Ever had that annoying moment where your music cuts out because you walked too far away? Not happening here. Plus, pairing is a breeze; just a few taps, and you're good to go.
In addition to Bluetooth, there’s a 3.5mm audio jack if you’re old school and want to plug in directly. It’s nice to have the option, especially if you’re dealing with devices that don’t support Bluetooth. You can even connect multiple devices to the speaker, thanks to its multi-device pairing capability. So, you and your friends can take turns playing DJ without a hitch.
But, let's be real, not everything is perfect. One downside is the absence of Wi-Fi connectivity. It would have been great to have a way to stream music directly from the internet or integrate with smart home systems. If you're someone who loves voice control or smart speakers, you might miss this feature.
Another cool feature is the USB port. You can use it to charge your devices. So if your phone’s running low on juice, just plug it in and keep the party going. But remember, this will drain the speaker's battery faster, so use it wisely.
Overall, the connectivity options are solid and versatile, making it easy to use in different scenarios. Whether you’re streaming wirelessly or plugging in directly, you’ll find it pretty user-friendly.
Durability and Water Resistance
One of the standout features of this speaker is its rugged durability. It's built like a tank, which means you don't have to baby it. The exterior is covered with a tough fabric material that feels sturdy enough to take a few bumps and bruises without any issues. The ends of the speaker even have rubber caps, providing extra protection against drops.
Now, let's talk about water resistance. This speaker comes with an IP67 rating, which means it’s not just splash-proof, but it can also survive being submerged in water up to 1 meter deep for about 30 minutes. So, if you accidentally knock it into the pool or get caught in the rain, your tunes won't stop.
However, while it excels in water resistance, it’s worth noting that the fabric covering can get pretty dirty. If you’re using it outdoors a lot, you might find yourself cleaning it more often than you'd like. Also, while it can handle a drop or two, it’s not entirely impervious to damage. Constant rough handling might eventually take its toll.
Overall, though, this speaker is designed to handle the rough and tumble of life on the go. Whether you're taking it to a beach party, a camping trip, or just moving it from room to room, it’s built to last and keep the music going no matter what.
What's in the Box
Unboxing the JBL Xtreme 4 is like opening a treasure chest. You get more than just the speaker itself, which is always a plus. Let’s break it down. First up, the speaker. It’s front and center, looking sleek and ready to rock. Along with it, you’ll find a power adapter. This is essential for juicing up that big battery, and yes, it includes various plug attachments for different regions. No need to hunt down an adapter if you're traveling. You’ll also discover a shoulder strap. This might seem like a small thing, but trust me, it's a game-changer for portability. Just clip it on, sling it over your shoulder, and you're good to go. Plus, the padded part makes it comfy to carry around, even for extended periods. There’s also a quick start guide and warranty card. The quick start guide is pretty straightforward, giving you the rundown on how to get everything up and running. The warranty card is your safety net - make sure to register your product for that extra peace of mind. Here's a quick list of what's inside:
- The speaker
- Power adapter with plug attachments
- Shoulder strap
- Quick start guide
- Warranty card
However, it’s worth noting that there aren’t any additional cables for aux input or USB charging. If you’re someone who loves those extra accessories, you might feel a little let down. In a nutshell, the box includes everything you need to get the party started right out of the gate, minus a few extras that some users might miss.
User Experience
Using the JBL Xtreme 4 is like having your personal concert on the go. The controls are super intuitive, with big, easy-to-press buttons that let you play, pause, and skip tracks without any hassle. If you’re like me and your phone is always buried in your bag, you’ll appreciate the built-in voice assistant integration; just say the magic words and you’re good to go. Pairing it with your device is a breeze. You can connect via Bluetooth or go old-school and use the AUX input. And guess what? You can even link multiple speakers together for a more immersive sound experience. It’s perfect for those massive beach parties or backyard barbecues. One thing I did notice, though, is that it can be a tad heavy. Weighing in at over 4 pounds, it’s not something you’d want to lug around in your backpack all day. But for short trips, it’s totally manageable and the built-in strap definitely helps. The app interface is another notable feature. Through the JBL app, you can customize sound settings to your preference, update firmware, and even switch between different sound modes. That said, the app can sometimes feel a bit clunky and slow to respond. Charging is quick and hassle-free, thanks to the USB-C port. You can even use it as a power bank to charge your phone in a pinch. That’s a lifesaver during long outings when your phone battery is dwindling. All in all, the user experience is straightforward and makes enjoying your favorite tunes ridiculously easy. Just be prepared for a bit of extra weight if you’re planning on carrying it around all day.
Price and Value
Price and Value can be a big deciding factor for many folks when looking at mobile speakers. So, how does the JBL Xtreme 4 stack up? Well, it sits in the mid-to-high price range for portable speakers. It's not exactly cheap, but you're definitely getting a solid bang for your buck. First off, let's talk about what you get for the price. The sound quality is stellar with deep bass and clear highs, and it can easily fill a room or outdoor space with music. The battery life is impressive too, clocking in at around 15 hours of playtime. That's more than enough for a full day of tunes without needing a recharge.
Now, let's consider the build quality and durability. The Xtreme 4 is rugged and designed to withstand the elements. It's got an IP67 rating, meaning it's both dustproof and waterproof. So, you can take it to the beach, pool, or even camping trips without worry. On the downside, the price might be a bit steep for some, especially if you're on a tight budget. There are cheaper options out there, but they often lack the same level of sound performance and durability. You might be making a trade-off between cost and quality.
If you're someone who values strong connectivity options, robust sound, and a tough build, investing in the JBL Xtreme 4 makes a lot of sense. Think of it as a long-term investment; you’re paying for something that will last and perform well in various settings. In summary, while the initial cost may seem high, the quality and features you get make it a worthwhile purchase. It's like buying a reliable car; it might cost more upfront, but it will serve you well for a long time.
Conclusion
The JBL Xtreme 4 delivers a powerful sound experience, solid build, and robust features, making it a strong contender in the portable speaker market. Its rugged design and water resistance make it ideal for outdoor use. The sound performance is impressive, with deep bass and clear highs that can fill any space. However, no product is without its flaws. The size and weight might make it a bit cumbersome for some users, especially if you're looking for something ultra-portable.
Also, the price might seem high for those on a budget, but it reflects the quality and features packed into this device. If you're after a speaker that combines durability, high-quality sound, and multiple connectivity options, this one is well worth considering. It offers excellent battery life and can withstand various environmental conditions, making it versatile for different settings. In conclusion, the JBL Xtreme 4 is a solid investment for anyone serious about their audio experience. It ticks most boxes for a portable speaker and then some.
While it may not be perfect, its strengths far outweigh its shortcomings. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or heading to the beach, this speaker is bound to elevate your music game.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Rich and immersive audio
- 360-degree sound
- 15-hour battery life
- Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity
- IP67 water resistance
Cons
- Heavy at 4.8 pounds
- Highs can be sharp at max volume
- No Wi-Fi connectivity
- Fabric can get dirty
Technical specifications
Product Name | JBL Xtreme 4 |
---|---|
Brand | JBL |
Model Number | Xtreme 4 |
Type | Portable Bluetooth Speaker |
Dimensions (W x H x D) | 136 x 288 x 132 mm |
Weight | 2.39 kg |
Bluetooth Version | 5.1 |
Bluetooth Range | Up to 15 meters (49 feet) |
Battery Type | Li-ion Polymer 36.3Wh |
Battery Life | Up to 15 hours |
Charging Time | Approximately 3.5 hours |
Power Supply | 19V 3A |
Output Power | 2 x 25W RMS (Woofer) + 2 x 25W RMS (Tweeter) |
Frequency Response | 53.5 Hz – 20 kHz |
Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 80 dB |
Waterproof Rating | IP67 |
Speakerphone | Yes |
Voice Assistant Integration | Yes |
USB Ports | 1 x USB Type-C (charging), 1 x USB Type-A (power bank) |
Aux Input | 3.5 mm |
Colors Available | Black, Blue, Red, Camouflage |
Included Accessories | Power Adapter, Strap, Quick Start Guide, Safety Sheet, Warranty Card |
Warranty | 1 Year |
Where to buy
More JBL reviews
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