Jbl charge 2 technical specifications. Review of portable acoustics JBL Charge. Playing cylinder. How to use a portable speaker through your phone

One of the most popular brands of audio equipment in world markets is the JBL brand, created in 1946 and owned by the Harman International concern. The company produces various devices, starting from car subwoofers and ending with headphones and portable speakers. The latest model in the line is a portable speaker JBL Charge 2.

Specifications

• Using Bluetooth 3.0 protocol for wireless connection up to three devices simultaneously.
• TRS 3.5 mm connector for wired connection.
• Possibility of working in wireless headset.
• Two passive radiators.
• Two wide range speakers.
• Maximum noise level - 80 dB.
• Frequency range - from 75 to 20 thousand Hz.
• Integrated 6000 mAh battery.
• Ability to charge third-party gadgets via USB connector.
• Small weight - 602 grams.
• Compact dimensions - 184x76x76 mm.

Scope of delivery

Together with portable speaker JBL Charge 2 only comes with a power supply, replacement plugs and instruction manual. No additional accessories are implied.

Charge 2 design

The appearance of Charge 2 is practically no different from previous model and is focused only on mobile and ubiquitous use. The original JBL Charge 2 looks like a cylinder, making it easy to attach, for example, to a bicycle frame using a standard holder.

The large battery had a negative impact on the weight of the speaker: it exceeded half a kilogram. Perhaps, this characteristic JBL Charge 2 is the only one that can cause inconvenience to the user.

The body is mostly made of rubberized plastic. One of the distinctive JBL specifications Charge 2 has a well-thought-out body shape, in which the speakers are covered with plastic grilles recessed into the base material. The full-range speakers are located on the manufacturer's logo side, while the second grille is installed only for symmetry in the design.

The grilles are separated at the top by a control panel equipped with backlit keys. The buttons are not touch sensitive, as is customary on modern devices, but pressed. This characteristic of JBL Cherge 2, such as the absence of protruding parts, is a good advantage, especially if the acoustics are used in extreme conditions. You can distinguish the buttons tactilely, blindly, the volume swings are embossed. Next to the tube there is a small hole - a microphone.

Passive radiators are located at the ends of the column. They are not protected by anything, but at the same time they are recessed quite deeply into the body, due to which, as users especially note in their reviews of the JBL Charge 2, there is no impact on them. During operation, the emitters vibrate quite noticeably.

WITH right side The housing has small legs that allow you to install the speaker in a vertical position. In the JBL Charge 2 acoustics, a distinguishing characteristic is a special indicator located under the volume buttons.

Under the grate located with back side speakers, three hidden connectors: for charging third-party devices - a high-ampere USB input, for connecting sound sources - TRS 3.5 mm and for charging a gadget - microUSB.

Due to the elongated base, the column does not have sufficient stability, which is why it easily tips over. Despite this, in the reviews, users note that this does not threaten the acoustics, since after several swings its speakers remain pointed upward.

Column measurements

Many users in their reviews conducted various tests of the characteristics of JBL Charge 2. For this class of acoustics, the uniformity of the frequency response graph is acceptable in the intervals from 75 Hz and 2 kHz and from 5 kHz to 12 kHz. It is worth noting separately that the graph reaches an acceptable level quite early.

The maximum sound pressure, which is often measured by specialists, is one of the important parameters of acoustic systems. The test is simple: the speaker is placed on a chipboard table so that the main speakers are directed towards the measuring microphone. At a distance of a meter from, a measuring microphone is mounted at the same height and connected to a spectrum analyzer.

Synchronizes with a smartphone with the maximum volume level set. During the test, average dBA readings are recorded for half a minute of sound in any so-called pink noise player.

Based on the results of the tests, we can say that the JBL Charge 2 portable acoustics are practically not inferior to their analogues in sound quality and volume.

Sound

JBL speakers have excellent sound quality: even fake JBL Charge 2 sound more open and louder than their original competitors - for example, Sound Blaster Roar. The lower and upper registers are more detailed, which allows you to convey the nuances of the sound of various musical instruments.

The instructions for JBL Charge 2 note such a function as simultaneous synchronization of up to three third-party devices. The gadget that was connected first remains priority: the rest do not join until playback on it is completed. When you press the corresponding key, priority is transferred to the device that is currently connected to the speaker.

The disadvantage of the JBL speaker as a wireless headset is the reduced sensitivity of the microphone: in order for the interlocutor to hear anything, you need to move close to the speaker. Despite the fact that the maximum volume is low, the timbre of the voice is transmitted without any distortion.

The maximum volume level is enough to sound a room of 20 square meters. At a volume of 50-70%, the JBL speaker copes well with any genres and compositions, delighting listeners with clear high notes, detailed bass and a good midrange. This gadget is ideal for both background sound and for creating a working atmosphere.

JBL Charge 2 is perhaps the first speaker on the acoustics market capable of quite high level volume to play heavy compositions. Loss in detail and depth of low frequencies occurs only at maximum volume. Despite its compact size, the speaker clearly and accurately reproduces many genres of music. Controversial compositions are best played at medium volume levels.

Separately, it is worth mentioning such a feature of Charge 2 as fast connection via Bluetooth - a pair is created in almost a second, while analogues require five to seven seconds to connect. The JBL Charge 2 instructions indicate a battery life of 12 hours, during which trouble-free music playback is carried out. The mentioned time can be reduced several times if portable acoustics are used as charger for tablet or smartphone.

The acoustics from Harman were not just improved by the manufacturer, but completely redesigned, which made it possible to create one of best speakers in its class and at such a price for the JBL Charge 2. The gadget has good bass, plays music quite well for its category at maximum volume and is equipped with a capacious battery that allows you to charge third-party devices. Average price JBL Charge 2 is 7 thousand rubles.

Autonomous operation of the column

At an average volume level when connected to a tablet, the JBL speaker can work for 18 hours, after which the battery is completely discharged. A large, high-power battery allows JBL Charge 2 to show good battery life results in comparison with similar devices of the same price category, slightly inferior in this indicator to some other portable speaker systems.

Connection options

You can synchronize the JBL Charge 2 portable speaker with any devices and gadgets via a Bluetooth connection or using a 3.5 mm cable. Unfortunately, such a cable is not included in the kit; it will have to be purchased separately. The Bluetooth 3.0 profile is used for connection - a high-speed, high-quality connection.

Distinctive features of acoustics

As mentioned above, the main feature of JBL Charge 2 is the aforementioned Social Mode, that is, the ability to charge third-party gadgets. Using a standard USB cable, you can connect any device - smartphone, tablet, player - to the portable speaker and charge it while listening to music. This function very profitable and useful and will serve well in situations where it is difficult to access the network to fully charge the gadget.

Review results

Throughout all the years of its existence, portable acoustics from the JBL brand have made a good impression on users, impressing with their quality and excellent sound. Together with the original and unique design Charge column 2 is significantly ahead of its main competitors in the same class and price category. The ability to charge third-party devices can help the user out when traveling or long walks, as has been repeatedly noted in numerous reviews of the JBL Charge 2. The cost of the Charge 2 with such a set of functions and characteristics does not look so high: the speaker can easily compete with expensive products from famous brands. brands, bypassing many of them.

For many, JBL Charge has become a household name for any portable speaker system. This is not surprising, since JBL portable speakers combine excellent quality sound with small dimensions, add to this protection from water and a capacious battery and you will get an almost ideal acoustic system for outdoor recreation. In this review, you will learn about one of the most popular portable speakers in the JBL line - Charge 2+.

Characteristics of Charge 2+

• Dimensions: 79 x 184 x 75 mm
• Weight: 540 grams
• Sound power: 2 x 7.5 watts
• Signal to noise ratio: 80 db
• Frequency range: 75Hz – 20kHz
• Emitters: 2 x 45 mm
• Battery capacity: 6000 mAh
• Battery life: 12 hours

Equipment

• Portable speaker
• microUSB cable
• Instructions
• Charger block with replaceable plugs

JBL has already released Charge and Charge 2, the third version with the prefix + received protection against water ingress and became a laconic continuation of the line.

Appearance

As I already said, the main difference between the Charge 2+ and other models in the line is its water protection, which allows you not only to use it in the rain or in the shower, but also to wash it with running water. For a wearable device, this feature is really useful.

And, although the speaker can be washed, it cannot be immersed in water, so you are unlikely to be able to listen to music under water.

Despite all the tests under running water, the speaker plays great. It’s not clear what will happen to the connectors, since they are not covered with anything - time will tell.

At the ends of the speaker there are two bass reflex ports, covered with a metal plate with the company logo printed on it, which vibrates to the beat of the music. It looks very cool.

A total of 8 different colors of JBL Charge 2+ are available.

Bright colors and a matte rubberized surface that does not leave fingerprints leave only a pleasant feeling.

Connectors for charging and connecting external sound sources are located at the bottom, control buttons are at the top.

Autonomy

The speaker confidently fulfills the 12 hours of continuous playback declared by the manufacturer. Acoustics can also be used as external source power to recharge other devices, but keep in mind that this will shorten the operating time.

Connection

There are two ways to connect a portable speaker:

1. Via a 3.5 mm jack using an aux cable, which unfortunately is not included.
2. WITH using bluetooth. Column supports bluetooth version 3.0, with the ability to simultaneously connect up to 3 devices thanks to Social Mode technology.

Sound quality

JBL Charge 2+ is loud, you don’t even expect strong sound from such a size, but the speaker is quite capable of filling a room with sound - just what you need at a party. Moreover, the sound is dense with enough bass. The only thing missing is the mid frequencies, but for the music this device is aimed at, this is not critical.

Dance and electronic music sound great.

Thanks to the built-in microphone, the speaker can be used as a speakerphone, and the built-in SoundClear noise reduction system will improve sound quality in noisy places.

Conclusions

It’s up to you to decide whether to take it or not, but for me, the speaker is worth the money (at the time of writing, you can buy JBL Charge 2+ on the contact website for 7,190 rubles). Which manufacturer will still offer you great sound in a housing protected from water and dirt, and even powerful battery with powerbank function.

Now there are many analogues from Chinese manufacturers, which offer identical options at prices several times lower. An example in the screenshot below (the picture is clickable, follow the link for a description).

with a high-capacity battery for charging external devices

The JBL brand, created in 1946 by American James Bullough Lansing, has been part of the Harman International concern for most of its history. JBL products are present in many segments of the audio equipment market - from in-ear headphones to car subwoofers. In 2003, we became acquainted with JBL products using the example of a 2.1-format speaker system. Today we will turn our attention to the portable solutions segment and take a closer look at the JBL Charge 2 device.

Specifications

• Wireless connection via Bluetooth 3.0 protocol supporting A2DP 1.3, AVRCP 1.5, HFP 1.6 and HSP 1.2 (up to three devices simultaneously)
• Wired connection via 3.5 mm TRS connector
• Working in wireless headset mode
• Two full-range speakers, two passive radiators
• Claimed signal-to-noise ratio: >80 dB
• Stated frequency range: 75 Hz – 20 kHz
• Built-in battery (3.7 V, 6000 mAh) with the ability to charge external devices via USB connector (5 V, 2.1 A)
• Size: 184 × 76 × 76 mm
• Weight: 602 g

Equipment

Only instructions and a power supply (5 V, 2.3 A) with a pair of replaceable plugs are supplied with the speaker system. The box is not burdened with any additional accessories.

Design

JBL Charge 2 differs from its predecessor only in small details and is still focused on mobile use. Due to the fact that its shape is similar to a beer can, the acoustics can be easily mounted, for example, using a standard holder on a bicycle frame.

Due to the large battery, the weight of the device exceeded half a kilogram, and this is perhaps the only characteristic that can cause inconvenience.

The main part of the body is made of rubberized plastic. The shape of the JBL Charge 2 is designed to protect the speakers: the plastic grilles for the full-range speakers are recessed into the body. They are both placed on the side of the manufacturer's logo, the other grille only maintains symmetry in the design.

The grilles are separated at the top by a control panel with illuminated buttons. They are not touchable, but pressable. The lack of prominent parts is definitely an advantage in "extreme" use cases. The buttons are distinguishable by touch, and the volume keys are embossed. The hole next to the tube is the microphone.

At the ends of the speaker system we see passive radiators. There is no additional protection for them, but they are located at a sufficient depth to minimize the likelihood of physical impact. During operation, the emitters vibrate effectively.

To install the speaker in a vertical position, small legs are provided on the right side (they can be seen in one of the photos). An indicator below the volume buttons shows the Charge 2's battery level.

In the recess under the rear grille there are three device connectors: Micro-USB for charging, TRS 3.5 mm for wired connection of a sound source and high-ampere USB input for charging external devices.

The elongated base of the speaker does not provide much stability; the speaker is easy to tip over. But this will hardly harm her - after a few swings, the main speakers will simply be directed upward.

JBL Charge 2 turned out to be both a stylish and convenient device, perfect for active use. In addition to black, this speaker system is available in white, blue, red and purple.

Measurements

We measured the frequency response of the acoustic system on the axis of the main speakers.

Acceptable for this class of acoustics, the uniformity of the frequency response graph is ensured in the range from 75 Hz to 2 kHz and then from 5 kHz to approximately 12 kHz. These segments are separated by a decline in amplitude, which drops below −6 dB over a short interval. Among the positive aspects, we note the early achievement of the schedule at an acceptable level.

With this review, we begin to measure such an important parameter of portable speaker systems as maximum sound pressure. Measurements take place in an acoustically isolated room. The device under test is installed on a chipboard table so that its main speakers are directed towards the measuring microphone (unless otherwise specified in the table). The measuring microphone is fixed at the same height at a distance of 1 m from the acoustic system and connected to a sound level meter-spectrum analyzer.

Then the speaker system is paired with a smartphone via Bluetooth. The speaker system and smartphone are set to maximum volume levels. Through a standard Walkman player with “enhancers” disabled, it is launched in repeat mode, and the average value in dBA for about half a minute of playback is recorded in the table.

As you can see, according to measurements, JBL Charge 2 is slightly louder than the Sound Blaster Roar. When preparing the article, an inexpensive Philips portable speaker also turned up at the right time and in the right place, and in its main position, in terms of sound pressure level, it turned out to be almost identical to our hero (which, by the way, cannot be said about the sound quality, where the difference is significant).

Sound

Comparative listening of the JBL Charge 2 and the reference one revealed the competitive advantages of each speaker system. The JBL sounds noticeably more open and, in many cases, louder than the Sound Blaster Roar. The Creative product responds with better detail in the lower and upper registers, which allows the Sound Blaster to better convey the nuances of the sound of many instruments.

An additional feature of the JBL Charge 2 is the ability to pair up to three devices simultaneously. According to our observations, when working together priority is given to the one that was connected first: until playback on it is paused, other “party participants” will not be able to join. When you press a button on the speaker, priority goes to the currently connected device.

JBL Charge 2 was tested as a wireless headset. The main disadvantage in this scenario The sensitivity of the microphone became low: in order for the interlocutor to hear us, we had to move almost close to the speaker. But the timbre of the voice was reproduced practically without distortion, although the maximum volume was low.

Autonomous operation

We have connected speaker system to the tablet and continuously played music, varying the volume around the average value. In this mode, the column lasted until completely discharged for about 18 hours. Starting with this review, for convenience, we will summarize the data on measurements of the autonomous operation of “decorative acoustics” into a single table.

Conclusions

Just like a dozen years ago, JBL products made a very good impression on us. For portable acoustics, it offers great sound, while having an interesting and thoughtful design. When traveling, being able to charge other devices can be very helpful. With this set of advantages, the price of JBL Charge 2 no longer looks overpriced, as is often the case with portable speakers from well-known manufacturers.

The new portable speaker is an absolute novelty on the electronics market and, without a doubt, we can classify it as the highest premium class among similar systems. The device has successfully replaced the system of the previous model JBL Charge and can please us with its excellent characteristics, both external and internal. In addition, you can use the speaker in any weather, because it is equipped special protection. Reviews of the JBL Charge2 confirm the manufacturers' statements; the acoustics reproduce very high-quality and clear sound. And you can enjoy your favorite music for 12 hours.

Charge2

Waterproof wireless speaker JBL Charge2 – This is a very successful and smart technological solution that has excellent stereo sound. And who has in stock capacious battery at 6000 mAh. The battery reserve is enough for 12 hours of continuous listening to music, and in addition, you can also charge your smartphone or tablet from the speaker, if necessary.

Wireless speaker specifications

• Power - 15 W
• Power - batteries, USB
• Operating time - 10 hours
• Features - built-in microphone
• Dimensions - 185Х79Х79
• Weight - 600 gr.
• Material - metal, plastic, rubber
• Additional characteristics - 2 passive radiators.

The speaker system comes with an AUX cable, a Micro-USB cable, and a warranty card for the device. The manufacturer provides a 1-year warranty.

Speaker colors

The following colors are available to customers:

• black;
• grey;
• beige;
• blue;
• turquoise;
• red.

You can easily choose exactly the color that suits you perfectly.

Main features of a JBL portable speaker

Charge2 acoustics can completely replace two powerful speakers both in quality and sound power. In addition, the device is lightweight and small in size, making it quite compact. You can easily carry the speaker with you and use it at any time you need.

You can also use the device as a microphone and talk on the phone with it.

On the side panel of the column there are control buttons that are equipped with color indicators:

• on/off;
• Bluetooth;
• volume control;
• answering a call;
• volume and charging indicator.

In addition to everything, the device has USB connectors for connecting devices.

Comparison with analogues

There are other speaker systems on the market with similar characteristics to the Charge2 wireless speaker:

• Nude Audio Move S;
• Creative Muvo Mini;
• JBL Flip 3;
• UE Roll 2;
• Marshall Kilburn.

Nude Audio Move S is a budget speaker system whose main advantage is its compact size. The disadvantages include a quiet sound, which, if you want to increase it, becomes hoarse and rattling. Another disadvantage of the device is that it cannot be used in rainy weather.

The Creative Muvo Mini is around the same price level as the JBL Charge2 waterproof wireless speaker. Its price ranges from 3-4 thousand rubles. The device is compact, but produces poor sound and is not equipped with moisture protection.

JBL Flip 3 is waterproof, has a built-in speakerphone, and can operate for 10 hours on a single charge. But the price-quality ratio is not justified. The speaker costs more than 5 thousand rubles, but the buyer will receive poor quality sound, which is also distorted when the volume is increased.

The UE Roll 2 is waterproof, has a good and loud speaker, and lasts 9 hours on a single charge. The disadvantages include the high cost, about 7 thousand rubles, and the lack of speakerphone.

Marshall Kilburn boasts autonomous operation for more than 10 hours and high-quality stereo sound. However, such a system costs more than 15 thousand rubles and due to its large dimensions, you will not be able to take it with you.

The main advantages of the JBL Charge 2 system

Let us highlight the main advantages that successfully distinguish the JBL Charge2 speaker system from its analogues.

• multifunctionality;
• waterproof;
• accessibility;
• compactness;
• light weight;
• large battery capacity;
• clear, powerful, spacious sound.

The wireless speaker is equipped with all the necessary functions and technical capabilities to please any user and fits easily into a backpack.

This speaker was presented at IFA, but I have been using the production model for about two months now and would be happy to tell you what the differences are in the second version of one of the most popular portable speakers on our market.

Design, construction

The most important thing is that there are holes on the left and right, something like bass reflexes, and they are designed in the same way as in a number of Harman/Kardon products. A metal circle with a logo is fixed on a movable rubber membrane; the vibration of the speakers causes the membrane to vibrate. You can watch this for hours, it looks very cool. Moreover, this also affects the sound quality - with low frequencies everything is just fine here.

The speaker is available in five colors: blue, red, white, lilac and black. The selection is unusual, white looks great. All colors are matte, since the main material of the case is very hard rubber, which is pleasant to hold in your hand. Dust does not accumulate on the surface. The grilles are made of metal, there is a rubber stand at the bottom; even when playing at full volume, the speaker does not slip. On the bottom there are USB connectors, 3.5 mm, microUSB input for charging.

During playback, it is best to place the speaker on a stand, but if you wish, you can put it on its end, although I would not do that. On the top there are control buttons and indicator lights, this is the power button, activating Bluetooth (it is also responsible for pairing), adjusting the volume, answering a call. The hole next to the handset is a microphone; JBL Charge 2 can be used as a speakerphone. Icon with figures of people - Social Mode, three people can connect their smartphones and tablets and start their tracks one by one. It turns out to be a sort of mix, one includes Sinatra, the second house, the third Igor Nikolaev. And everything was done almost without pauses, stutters, interruptions, without the need for painful pairing - we tried everything, quickly and clearly. For young people and parties, the function is simply excellent.

Speaker dimensions - 79 x 184 x 75 mm, weight - 540 grams. It doesn’t take up much space in a suitcase and doesn’t particularly affect the weight; if anything happens, you can put it in your hand luggage. But in the hotel you will have excellent music; in Berlin this was very important, since you had to spend a lot of time sitting in the room and preparing materials - without music it would be completely boring.

On the top there are light indicators - dots, they will tell you what is happening with the speaker battery. Please note that it takes a long time to charge, since it uses a capacious battery.

Connection methods

You can connect any devices to the JBL Charge 2 via Bluetooth or using a 3.5 mm cable; it’s a pity that this is not included in the kit; the user will have to look for the cable themselves. Bluetooth 3.0 profile, there were no problems with connection.

Peculiarities

This is the already mentioned Social Mode, well, and let’s not forget that the name itself suggests the purpose of the device, it is charging other gadgets. You take any USB cable, connect it to the speaker connector and charge any smartphones, you can even charge your tablet. The function is very good and will be useful to you on a picnic, during gatherings in a hotel room or on the street near the entrance.

Supported protocols are A2DP V1.3, AVRCP V1.5, HFP V1.6, HSP V1.2.

Nutrition

The stated operating time is about 12 hours in sound playback mode at full volume; in reality, these figures approximately correspond to the stated ones. Just keep in mind that if you connect other devices to Charge 2 for charging, the operating time will decrease.

The battery capacity is as much as 6000 mAh, if you are interested.

Sound quality

Let me remind you that the speaker can be used as a speakerphone, the quality of speech transmission is not bad, the interlocutors did not particularly complain, but I spoke in quiet places - I don’t know how it will be in noisy places.

As for the music, here are some official specs:

• Transducer: 2 x 45mm
• Rated power input: 2 x 7.5W
• Frequency response: 75Hz – 20kHz
• Signal-to-noise ratio: >80dB

In principle, these numbers are of no use - the speaker sounds great. JBL put excellent speakers here and seriously worked with internal device. The round edges on the ends are needed not only for beauty; low frequencies are perceived completely differently compared to the first-generation speaker - in general, the Charge has changed. If you can’t see what exactly is playing, you can think about some kind of large speaker. But in fact, this is a little Charge 2.

Like any other portable device, JBL Charge 2 cannot be called universal, it is more suitable for electronic music - due to its specifics, everything is fine here with low and high frequencies, but the same cannot be said about the middle. However, for target audience it doesn't matter. The first Charge was chosen for “Oh, she’s so loud! It also charges your smartphone.” The second one is even louder and can take even longer to charge.

Conclusions

The speaker is already on sale in Europe, the price is about $150, the first version in Russia costs about 4,000 rubles, for JBL Charge 2 they will ask about 5,500 rubles, so far these are just my guesses, the official price tag has not been announced. What can I say? Better design and the movable membranes at the ends look very cool, I think all the owners will periodically glance at them while the music is playing, this is a cool feature. Very good materials housing, recognizable design. And in general, a pleasant combination, metal and rubber. Convenient controls, excellent Social Mode function, built-in microphone, excellent sound quality, ability to charge any smartphone via USB port, long time work, up to 12 hours in playback mode.