JBL Boombox 2 vs Boombox here is the Differences

JBL has updated the Boombox with the release of the Boombox 2 edition added to their lineup. There are lots of questions flying around and people wanting to know what’s changed and what’s best.

And the most common question is:

“Is it worth upgrading from the Boombox to the new version or has it underscored?”.

Well, read on and see what’s new and what the differences between the previous and new upgraded versions are. This article will help you find out which of the two products is best for you.

The JBL Boombox 2 vs Boombox: there isn’t a lot of difference between these two speakers. The most significant differences are the upgrade of Bluetooth from version 4.2 to version 5.1 and an almost unnoticeable boost in volume.

Both the JBL Boombox and Boombox 2 are Loud and Clear

Both wireless speakers have plenty of power and produce a loud and clear sound experience. So, you can enjoy an all-round captivating sound that will surely shake the neighbors. The mid and high ranges as well as the bass stay distortion-free all the way through the volume range.

The JBL Boombox 2 is loud and maybe just slightly louder than the older JBL Boombox. Having said that, they are both rated at 2 x 30 watts. The only visible difference is in the specs, the Boombox 2 will provide an output of 2 x 40 watts RMS when in AC mode. This drops down to 2 x 30 watts RMS when in battery mode.

To get as much volume as this portable Boombox can make, it is best to keep it plugged into the power when using it. In saying that, the performance when running on its battery is still outstanding.

Another adjustment that was made to improve the new model is the removal of the indoor/outdoor mode from the earlier model. The Boombox 2 has been tweaked to no longer need the boost.

It just has the best power ready to go providing you with the best sound required no matter your location. An update that makes life easier and gives you the best relaxing music in any environment.

Power Bank Option Lives on Among Other Features

The changes that apply to the Boombox 2 edition are the removal of one USB plug to charge devices. Previously, with the Boombox, there were 2 of these plugs in the back of the speaker.

So, the power bank option is still available, just for one device to be charged at a time. A lifesaver, if you need to give your mobile phone a quick charge.

No change has been made to the battery life of the Boombox; it stands at 24 hours and gives you that JBL Xtreme sound to let you have the best party on the block. If this portable Bluetooth speaker is going to be played at full volume at parties, etc. then the battery life will be halved.

A difference with the battery is the Boombox 2 has a 10,000mAh battery, which is more energy-efficient than the older Boombox’s 20,000mAh battery and achieves the same amount of playtime.

In addition to that, the Boombox 2 battery is smaller in size, which also adds to the efficiency.

Any weight saving here must have been used in adding new tech or other components as the JBL Boombox 2 is slightly heavier.

Also, the Boombox 2 just like the Boombox does have a fairly slow charge time of about 6.5 hours.

You still have the 3.5 mm audio cable input plug on the back, as well as the USB Type-C jack for service and firmware updates.

Just as the Boombox, the Boombox 2 is still good for wet environments. The Boombox 2 is waterproof, which makes it perfect for the beach, lake, or even just for the pool at home.

With an IPX7 waterproof rating, this portable speaker can be fully submerged in 3 feet of water for up to 30 minutes and will still produce mind-blowing audio. 

JBL Boombox 2 and Carry Case

Dual Speaker Options Available

Dual Boombox options are still achievable, although things have changed. The Boombox 2 no longer has the JBL Connect+ option, which means that it will not pair with any JBL portable speaker that has this option.

However, it does have JBL’s new generation PartyBoost option. What this means is that your Boombox 2 will pair to another Boombox 2, Flip 5, Pulse 4, or any other JBL portable speaker that has the PartBoost option available.

Therefore, it’s still possible to run two of these portable Boomboxes in tandem with PartyBoost mode and make the party at home even louder.

Over time there will be more and more JBL Bluetooth speakers that will be able to be paired as new models roll out giving you the best audio. The best audio sound that you have come to know and love from JBL.

Lastly, to clarify this again, a Connect+ portable Bluetooth speaker will not work with the new PartyBoost speaker pairing option.

New Features of the JBL Boombox 2 at a Glance:

The JBL Boombox 2 may be a portable speaker that’s underscored with its new upgrades and features, but anyway, here they are and there are a couple of improvements.

With Bluetooth 5.1 this wireless speaker has the latest and best Bluetooth technology, which provides added clarity as well as a connection that has stability for great sound. The perfect connection for anyone who is always on the go and needs music for entertainment almost anywhere.

The Boombox 2 has an improved textured grip to allow for easy carrying of the portable wireless speaker in comfort. There is a new look battery indicator to show when power is getting low and the speaker needs to be recharged.

The logos on the woofers at each end of the tube have been upgraded to the latest JBL look, too.

A slight power boost, when the Boombox 2 is on AC power, gives an extra 10 watts, although when it’s on battery power, it is still slightly louder than the older Boombox. And, as mentioned above, with these tweaks there is no longer any need for the indoor/outdoor mode, thus giving you the best sound inside and out without the need to keep switching the modes.

How the Boombox 2 Fairs Up Against the Boombox

The overall size of the Boombox 2 has changed slightly. However, nothing that is big enough, which would have changed the overall look and style that JBL puts across their full range of portable Bluetooth speakers.

When putting them together the JBL Boombox 2 vs Boombox, it’s like this. If you want to save $100 the best option is a Boombox. If you have a JBL Boombox portable speaker then stick with it, as the sound is almost as good.

Lastly, if you don’t already have a Boombox and would like to purchase one, then the Boombox 2 could be an awesome option and would give you the latest in the range.

JBL Boombox 2 vs Boombox Full Specification Chart

Want to visualize the differences when we put these two Bluetooth portable Boombox speakers side-by-side? Well, here we go, the JBL Boombox 2 vs the Boombox, here are the changes in a side-by-side comparison:

What’s in the Box?

Conclusion

The JBL Boombox 2 is a solid choice if you’re in the market for a new Bluetooth portable speaker that makes a sound you want to hear. It is, however, on average $100 more expensive than the older JBL Boombox.

When waying up the differences and the price, compared to the older Boombox, you would most likely be better off staying with the older one, if you already have one.

There’s not really enough of a change in sound and features to warrant upgrading from your old speaker. And, the other thing is, if you do decide to upgrade, then you won’t be able to pair them together either, as they both have different pairing systems.

As an upgrade option, the Boombox 2 has underscored and isn’t worth the extra money in our opinion.

On the other hand, if you’re looking to purchase a JBL Boombox for the first time, then the Boombox 2 is quite possibly worth the extra money to get the latest model. Having Bluetooth 5.1 alone is going to be a plus in giving you the best possible Bluetooth connection.