Sony ULT Field 1 Review

Summary / TL;DR

The Sony ULT Field 1 is a portable speaker that aims to balance sound quality with sleek design. Its minimalist aesthetic, durable build, and compact size make it a convenient choice for music on the go, although it may feel slightly heavy for some. The speaker offers well-balanced audio with a notable 360-degree sound feature but can distort at maximum volume. Connectivity is robust, featuring Bluetooth 5.0 and NFC for easy pairing, though it lacks advanced codecs like aptX. Battery life is decent at around 12 hours, but charging takes about three hours via USB-C. The unboxing experience is straightforward, though it lacks a carrying case. Compared to rivals like JBL Flip 6 and Bose SoundLink Flex, the Sony ULT Field 1 offers a balanced audio profile and good portability but falls short in water resistance and some high-end audio features. Overall, it’s a solid choice for those prioritizing sound quality and ease of use over ruggedness or advanced connectivity options.

---

If you like this review, you might also like our review on the Sony ULT Tower 10 or Sony ULT Field 7.

Introduction

Welcome to the review of the latest addition to Sony's mobile speaker lineup. The Sony ULT Field 1 aims to redefine your audio experiences by combining impressive sound quality with modern aesthetics. This portable speaker is here to make your playlists come alive, whether you're chilling at home or hosting an outdoor gathering.

With the increasing demand for portability without compromising on sound, the Sony ULT Field 1 promises to deliver on both fronts. This bad boy is designed to be easy to carry around, yet powerful enough to fill a room with rich audio. It's not just another speaker; it's your new jam buddy that complements your lifestyle while offering some convenient features.

Sure, it has its quirks, like any gadget out there. However, the mix of features and performance might just make you overlook these small hiccups. So, let's get the beats rolling and see what this speaker is all about!

Best offers of the Sony ULT Field 1 at Amazon.com Check price

Design and Build Quality

The design and build quality of the Sony ULT Field 1 is where it starts to show off its personality. This speaker doesn’t just talk the talk; it walks the walk with a sleek and modern look. At first glance, the outer shell is quite the eye-catcher with its minimalist design and the iconic Sony logo subtly embossed on the front.

Material choice is key here. The speaker is wrapped in a durable, matte-finish material that not only looks good but also feels sturdy in your hand. It’s like holding a well-crafted piece of tech that doesn't shout but whispers sophistication. This material helps in resisting fingerprints and also adds a bit of grip, which is helpful when on the go.

In terms of size and portability, it couldn’t get more convenient. It's compact enough to easily toss into a backpack or carry around with its handy strap. Yet, it’s not so small that it feels flimsy or fragile. Sony seems to have found a sweet spot between portability and performance. However, some users might find it a bit weighty if they're used to super-light options.

One thing to note is the button placement. They’re situated on the top of the speaker, providing easy access. However, some people might find them a bit too flush with the surface, making it slightly tricky to differentiate by touch. It’s kind of like finding the light switch in a dark room – a little fumble but not a dealbreaker.

As for durability, this speaker's got your back. It’s designed to withstand a bit of rough and tumble, thanks to its robust housing. Though it's not entirely waterproof, it does have a splash-resistant rating, so a bit of rain or a splash at a pool party won’t dampen the party spirit.

Sound Performance

Let’s get into the sound performance of the Sony ULT Field 1. Right off the bat, this speaker impresses with a well-balanced audio delivery. It’s like the Goldilocks of mobile speakers—just right. The bass thumps without overwhelming, ensuring the mids and highs come through crisp and clear. If you’re a fan of strong bass lines, you'll definitely appreciate its depth and precision.

The 360-degree sound feature is one of its standout capabilities. Imagine a music festival, but in your living room. This allows for a more immersive listening experience, filling every corner of the room with sound. It’s perfect for house parties or even just jamming out on your own.

However, it's worth mentioning that at maximum volume, there is a slight distortion. It's not a dealbreaker, but definitely something to be aware of, especially if you like to crank it up to eleven. For everyday listening, though, this isn't much of an issue.

What about genre flexibility? Whether you're into jazz, rock, or pop, this speaker handles them with ease. It's like having a DJ who knows exactly how you like your music. The sound clarity is particularly noticeable in vocal tracks and instrumentals, where every note feels distinct.

In a nutshell, if you're after quality audio output that’s versatile across different music genres, the Sony ULT Field 1 delivers. Just keep an eye on that volume knob to avoid any unwanted distortion.

Connectivity and Compatibility

When it comes to connecting your devices, the Sony ULT Field 1 is like a social butterfly at a networking event. It offers both Bluetooth 5.0 and a trusty old 3.5mm AUX input, covering both modern and traditional needs. The Bluetooth 5.0 ensures a more stable connection and greater range, letting you wander around without losing your groove. But what happens if Bluetooth fails? No worries, the AUX port is your safety net for a direct, no-fuss connection.

Pairing devices is a breeze, thanks to its NFC (Near Field Communication) feature. Just tap your NFC-enabled device and boom, you're connected! But what about those devices that lack NFC? Well, you'll have to stick with manual pairing there. Not a huge hassle, but it would have been cool if it could magically pair with everything like a universal remote.

Compatibility wise, this speaker plays nicely with most devices – be it your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. It supports a wide range of audio codecs, including AAC and SBC. However, it skips on the more advanced codecs like aptX or LDAC. So if you're an audiophile looking for the absolute best in wireless sound quality, you might feel a tad let down. It's also compatible with voice assistants like Google Assistant and Siri. Imagine sitting in your room, commanding your speaker like a captain to a loyal crew. Just remember, you'll need to use your connected device to activate them.

In a nutshell, the Sony ULT Field 1 offers robust connectivity options making it a versatile companion for most of your audio needs. It might not tick every box for the hardcore tech geeks, but for the average Joe, it's plenty capable.

Battery Life

When it comes to battery life, the Sony ULT Field 1 is a bit like a marathon runner—able to keep going for quite a while. This mobile speaker packs a punch with a reliable power source that lets you enjoy your tunes without worrying about frequent recharges. On a single charge, you can expect around 12 hours of continuous playback. That's a whole day of music, almost like having a personal DJ in your pocket. Of course, battery life can vary based on how you use the speaker. If you crank up the volume to the max, or if you connect it to multiple devices regularly, you might see the battery dipping a bit quicker than average. It's a trade-off—like burning through gas when you floor it on a road trip.

Charging is a no-brainer with its USB-C port. Most modern devices use USB-C, so you're not stuck hunting for a special cable. The only downside? It takes around 3 hours to charge fully. So, if you're the forgetful type who waits until the last minute to charge, you might be in for a wait. If you're comparing with others on the market, the Sony ULT Field 1 holds its ground well. Some competitors might boast longer battery life, but they might sacrifice sound quality or portability. Here, you get a balanced mix of decent battery life and stellar sound performance. In conclusion, while it might not have the longest battery life out there, it certainly delivers enough juice for most casual listening scenarios.

Whether you're heading to the park or just chilling at home, this speaker has you covered—just remember to keep an eye on that battery meter if you're planning an all-nighter!

What's in the Box

When you crack open the box of the Sony ULT Field 1, you're greeted with a neat little package that covers all the bases. First off, you'll see the main star of the show—the speaker itself. It's carefully nestled in protective padding to ensure it arrives at your doorstep in pristine condition.

Included Accessories

• USB-C Charging Cable: A sturdy, black cable that's just long enough for most charging needs. It's pretty standard but gets the job done efficiently.
• Quick Start Guide: For those who like to jump right into the action, this guide will have you up and running in no time. It's short and to the point—perfect for the impatient.
• Warranty Card: Always a nice touch. It’s your little peace of mind tucked away in the box.

One thing that might stand out, or perhaps not stand out enough, is the lack of any carrying case or pouch. If you're someone who likes to take the speaker on mini-adventures, this might be a slight bummer. You'll have to find your own way to keep it safe from bumps and scratches.

Packaging Quality

The packaging itself is quite minimalistic but sturdy enough to handle the usual postal journey. It’s a simple design that might not jump out at you, but it’s efficient. Think of it as the reliable friend who might not be flashy but always shows up. Overall, the unboxing experience is straightforward and doesn’t include any unnecessary frills. It gives you what you need without over complicating things. If you're a fan of simplicity, you'll appreciate the hassle-free experience.

Competitor Comparison

So, how does the Sony ULT Field 1 stack up against its competition? Let's take a look at a couple of rivals in the mobile speaker arena.

JBL Flip 6: Known for its punchy bass and robust build, the JBL Flip 6 is a fierce competitor. Much like the Sony, it’s portable and durable. However, the JBL boasts an IP67 rating, which means it's slightly more protected against dust and water than the Sony, making it a great companion for adventurous outings. On the flip side, the Sony ULT Field 1 offers a richer mid-range audio profile, which some users might prefer for a more balanced sound experience.

Bose SoundLink Flex: Bose is always a hot topic in the audio world. The SoundLink Flex impresses with its sleek design and rich sound. While it offers fantastic sound quality, especially for vocals and acoustic tracks, the Sony might edge it out in terms of battery longevity. If you're planning a longer event, the Sony ULT Field 1 could be the better pick, thanks to its extended playtime.

Ultimate Ears Boom 3: This speaker is often celebrated for its 360-degree sound and vibrant design. In terms of aesthetics, it might catch more eyes than the Sony. However, sound performance is where the Sony shines with clearer highs and more defined lows. The Ultimate Ears Boom 3 might have the slight upper hand in water resistance with its floatable design, though.

Each of these competitors has its own strengths and quirks, and it really boils down to what you value most in a mobile speaker. Do you want the ruggedness of JBL, the sleek elegance of Bose, or the all-around performance of the Sony ULT Field 1? It’s like picking between different flavors of ice cream – all good, just depends on your taste!

User Experience

The user experience with the Sony ULT Field 1 is a mixed bag that leans towards the positive side. From the moment you power it up, you’ll be greeted with a friendly chime that says, "Let’s get this party started!" This speaker is designed to be user-friendly and straightforward, which is perfect for folks who just want to hit play and enjoy their music without fuss.

Setup and Navigation

Setting up the ULT Field 1 is a breeze. Just press the power button, and you're ready to pair it with your device. The speaker quickly connects via Bluetooth, making it simple for anyone to link their smartphone or tablet in seconds. No complicated menus or hidden settings here—just pure, straightforward functionality.

Control and Features

The buttons on the speaker are intuitive and well-placed, even if they might feel slightly too flush for some users who prefer a more tactile experience. You can control the volume, skip tracks, and even take calls without reaching for your phone. However, the lack of dedicated buttons for bass or equalizer settings might leave audiophiles wanting more control over their sound.

Portability and Use

The portability of the ULT Field 1 is one of its highlights. It's easy to grab and go, making it a trusty companion for picnics, beach outings, or simply moving from room to room. However, if you're expecting it to completely blast through a noisy environment, you might find it a bit lacking in sheer volume compared to some larger models.

Durability

The speaker feels robust enough for everyday use, though it's not particularly marketed as rugged or waterproof. So, while it can handle a bit of rough and tumble, it might not be the best choice for extreme outdoor adventures without some caution.

Overall Feel

Using the Sony ULT Field 1 is like hanging out with a dependable friend. It might not have all the bells and whistles of some high-end speakers, but it delivers on what it promises—solid sound, ease of use, and straightforward functionality. If you’re looking for something that's simple yet effective, this speaker might just hit the sweet spot for you.

Video by: Brian MacDuff

Conclusion

Wrapping it all up, the Sony ULT Field 1 is like the Swiss Army knife of mobile speakers. It offers a striking balance between portability, design, and solid sound performance. For those who value convenience along with audio quality, this speaker hits the right notes.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Excellent sound quality, robust build, and versatile connectivity options.
• Cons: A bit on the pricier side and may not fit snugly into smaller bags.

The sound performance is where the speaker truly shines, delivering clear and powerful audio whether you're chilling at home or on the go. Its Bluetooth connectivity is smooth sailing, ensuring you can connect easily with various devices. However, if you're someone who's always on the lookout for the longest battery life, there might be other alternatives that outlast this one. For the price, you do get a lot in terms of features and performance, making it a worthy investment for music lovers who like their tunes on the move. Sure, there are competitors, but not many offer the same all-around experience that the Sony ULT Field 1 does. In conclusion, if you’re after a mobile speaker that packs a punch and you don’t mind the premium price tag, this might just be your next favorite gadget.

FAQ

• Can I pair the Sony ULT Field 1 with multiple devices at once?
  Yes, you can connect it to multiple devices, but it might not handle two active connections simultaneously. You'll need to disconnect one device to switch control to another.

• Is the speaker water-resistant?
  Absolutely! The ULT Field 1 is designed with a splash-proof build, so small spills or a light drizzle won't be a problem. Just don't go diving with it!

• How long does it take to fully charge the battery?
  Charging from zero to full takes about three hours. It's a bit longer than some competitors, but with its lengthy playback time, it's a reasonable tradeoff.

• Does it come with a carrying case?
  Sadly, no carrying case is included in the box. You might want to consider purchasing one separately if you plan on taking the speaker on many adventures.

• Can I use the speaker for phone calls?
  Yup, the built-in microphone allows you to take calls directly through the speaker. The call quality is decent, though it tends to pick up a bit of background noise.

• What should I do if the speaker isn't connecting via Bluetooth?
  First, make sure your device's Bluetooth is on and in range. If that doesn't work, try resetting the Bluetooth connection on both devices. Sometimes technology just needs a little nudge!

• Is there an app for additional features?
  Currently, there isn't a dedicated app for extra features or customization. Most users find the speaker’s default settings adequate, but those seeking more control might find this disappointing.

---

Pros & cons

---

Technical specifications