JBL Charge - sound that is always with you. JBL Charge - sound that is always with you Technical characteristics of jbl charge 2 plus

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 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 wouldn’t even expect a 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).

Every music lover is familiar with JBL portable speakers. Over the past 3-5 years they have conquered the market wireless speakers and are considered No. 1. JBL are comfortable, ergonomic and with high-quality sound. A plus for buyers is that the price of JBL Charge 2 is more favorable than that of most of the company's competitors.

The JBL Charge 2 portable Bluetooth speaker is a logical continuation of the first JBL Charge speaker, which became a hit. The company developed acoustics that were new in sound, but retained the beloved design. In other words, the second series of the famous speaker acquired the sound qualities of the first and eliminated its shortcomings.

In a review of the portable sound system Charge 2 we will remember the advantages of this model and describe the technical characteristics. Let's pay attention to the deep sound and unique design of the best-selling speaker.

• Weight - 600g;
• Battery life up to 18 hours;
• Full charge within 2 hours;
• Wireless bluetooth connection with the ability to connect three devices simultaneously;
• Acoustic jack 3.5mm;
• Frequency range 75-20000Hz;
• Power - up to 80 dB;
• Two speakers each with separate emitters for low and high frequencies.

Compared to the previous JBL Charge, the Charge 2 speaker has powerful sound.

A signature bass accentuation and voluminous, colorful low frequencies appear. There are also changes in appearance - the new generation is a little longer and looks more impressive. Charge 2 has one USB input, connector for power supply, standard AUX input.

Rechargeable 6000mAh battery

A capacious battery is the pride of JBL Charge 2. This is one of the most productive batteries on the market portable acoustics. Considering the power and cost of the speaker, it seems that the company was operating at a loss.

Comes with a special Charger, with it you can easily recharge JBL Charge 2. To restore the battery, 1.5-2 hours of mains power is enough.

Autonomous operation

JBL Charge 2 at average volume levels shows an outstanding result of 18 hours of battery life. Of course, when using music center At full volume, the time without charging can drop to 8-10 hours, which is also decent.

Like any Bluetooth speaker, there are problems with low battery power - in the last hours of operation, the music becomes quieter, or even stops altogether. If desired, due to the large battery, you can use it as a PowerBank and charge smartphones from it.

So long autonomous operation Charge 2 is suitable for outdoor activities or a mobile party with a large company. Enjoying music can last up to 10-16 hours outdoors. There is a high probability that the phones will run out of charge before the Charge 2 battery runs out.

A popular method of use is to integrate the Charge 2 into a bottle holder on your bike. The size and design of the Charge 2 makes it easy to hold in this position. They also use JBL for running or hiking. Thanks to powerful speakers, the material of your bag or backpack will not become an obstacle to sound.

Speakerphone

For wireless communication Charge 2 has a specially built-in speakerphone. Users note that it transmits clear and high-quality speech sound, without crackles or interference. Such an addition is considered mandatory in the field of Bluetooth acoustics, but few implement the connection properly. The speakerphone in the Charge 2 model is of high quality, it is quite enough for talking on the phone.

It is recommended to use JBL as an alternative to the Hands Free function for drivers; it can be connected via an adapter to charging the car, and communicate calmly with the interlocutor. Communication in a confined space will be excellent, and you and your interlocutor can be clearly heard.

Using such a system at home is always convenient. For example, you are cooking, talking on the speakerphone at the same time, or doing other household chores. A regular phone will not always provide good audibility or sound capture during such a conversation, but JBL does an excellent job.

Splash protection

Like previous model JBL Charge 2 is created with basic protection from water: slight moisture, splashes. The plastic parts of the speaker are rubberized and hermetically joined together, which makes it difficult for moisture to enter. All buttons on the speakers are also splash-proof: from the power key to the volume control.

Of course, Charge 2 will not survive heavy rain or swimming in a pool - the two passive radiators on the sides are not protected from water and will easily break. But the acoustics are well protected from sand, splashes on the beach and spilled water. JBL focuses on the outdoor industry.

Social Mode Feature

By pressing the Social Mode button on the case, you will enable the multi-user connection function to the JBL Charge 2 speaker. You can connect 3 devices via Bluetooth as a player. It’s convenient when you don’t want to trust only one DJ with the music for a party - you and your friends can switch the playlist alternately.

At the time of creation of JBL Charge 2, the function was little tested - the likelihood of an unstable connection when connecting several audio speakers is high. One or more phones may suddenly lose Bluetooth connection and experience interference. Typically, the problem occurs in technical stuffing columns.

JBL was one of the first to try shared control features via Bluetooth. Further development This technology in the form of connecting multiple speakers was developed from this service.

Sound

The sound in JBL Charge 2 is the main advantage. The second model was clearly improved by the company's engineers - they worked not only with the bass line, but also with the quality of low and mid frequencies. The lows are traditionally loud and voluminous.

Thanks to two passive radiators, an additional stereophonic effect is created. Charge 2 features bi-amping technology, where separate speakers are responsible for two different sound ranges.

The volume of Charge 2 is enough to fill the entire apartment with powerful sound. When relaxing outdoors, the speaker can be heard at a distance of up to 20 meters. The bass plays clearly, which allows you to organize parties in the open air. It is possible to create an entire composition from JBL speakers.

Additional speakers create a stereophonic stage. During the experiment, it was found that the main sound is filled by the speaker connected first, regardless of the volume level of the others.

JBL Bass Passive Radiators

JBL Bass technology is distinguished by the correct location of the speakers: the bass radiators in the Charge 2 are located on the sides “at the ends” of the speaker cylinder, and the rest are built into the body. With the right JBL location the sound will be great.

Design

Already a classic appearance in the form of a tube, it sets standards for the market of portable audio devices. Thanks to the shape of the Charge 2 speaker, you will not only get the correct placement of the speakers, but also feel the strength and reliability of the speaker.

Thanks to its round shape, the JBL audio speaker can withstand falls from low heights. Rubberized plastic parts soften the fall and prevent the inside of the speaker from being damaged.

Among the disadvantages of this form, we note the mobility of the speaker - it rolls on a table or other surface if installed incorrectly. This can be easily prevented by installing special feet. Sometimes they come bundled with the main device.

The materials from which JBL Charge 2 is made have a strict and laconic appearance. The front part is covered with a special mesh, the body is covered with plastic. The speaker looks stylish and powerful. The product has color options: red, black, blue. In our opinion, black column is the most preferable option in terms of appearance.

The buttons on the model are illuminated - convenient when you need to switch the speaker in the dark.

Despite larger size than the first model, JBL Charge 2 is convenient to transport. Thanks to the design and shape of the speaker, it is convenient to hold in one hand. The case material does not allow fingers to slide on the surface, which protects the speaker from unexpected falls.

Equipment

The standard Charge 2 JBL speakers include the following items:

1. The speaker system itself;
2. Power supply for charging, USB cable;
3. Set of forks for different types sockets;
4. Adapter;
5. Instructions, product warranty.

JBL's box is medium in size, no frills. It perfectly fits all the parts and the product itself. Each Charge 2 device has its own section.

When working with a Bluetooth speaker, there are nuances that may be incomprehensible to a beginner: connecting via Bluetooth, charging rules and safety precautions when working with the speaker. Some suppliers write that the speaker is waterproof, but this is not entirely true. Throwing the JBL Charge 2 into deep water is not recommended.

Monitor the condition of the power supply, try to change it every 2 years. This will avoid problems with your JBL speaker in the future.

Conclusion

JBL Charge 2 is a hit among portable Bluetooth speakers. There are advantages to each point - there are advantages, excellent bass, design, cost.

Today Charge 2 costs an average of 2-3 thousand rubles. Unfortunately, there are many fake JBL products on the market. This is due to the fact that there is a demand for speakers from this company.

An audio speaker with the JBL logo can be found at every seller who sells Bluetooth speakers. But not all of these devices are made under the control of a trademark.

JBL Charge 2 Plus- an updated version of the 2014 hit model Charge. The advantages of the first version are complemented by protection of the case from moisture and splashes. Also, Charge 2 Plus has noticeably improved bass sound.

The secret of JBL's success

JBL has been producing hi-fi speakers and studio monitors for over 60 years. And portable acoustics with Bluetooth appeared in its assortment several years ago. The Charge 2 Plus and other models have received good press and customer reviews for their excellent functionality and sound. The speaker plays loudly and at the same time with high quality - for its size and price category. And it especially surprises with the sophistication of sound in the low-frequency register on trance, heavy music, etc.

The Charge 2 Plus has a larger battery than many competitors, with a capacity of 6,000 mAh. The speaker can work up to 12 hours without recharging, that is, 2 hours more than its competitor Denon Envaya Mini. At the same time, two speakers with a diameter of 45 mm produce power up to 15 W.

JBL can also work as Power Bank for gadgets and hands-free system for mobile phones. A special feature of this model is the Multipoint mode for connecting three Bluetooth devices to the speaker simultaneously.

Acoustics for hikes and picnics

"Chip" Charge 2 Plus- protection of the housing from splashes and dirt. This model can work not only in drizzling rain, but also in heavy rain. But it is worth remembering that the acoustics will not withstand more extreme conditions, such as immersion under water.

Charge 2 Plus owners consider the speaker good option for listening to music while traveling and outdoors. Buyers make complaints about the fact that there are no plugs at the connectors, and the kit does not include a carrying case. Interestingly, some of them even place the device on a bicycle - in a holder for a water flask.

JBL Charge 2 Plus- a speaker with bright colors (orange, red, etc.), which is protected from moisture and equipped with a powerful battery. Moreover, you can use it not only at picnics, but also in everyday life, for example, next to the computer.

Additional functions and capabilities of the portable JBL acoustics Charge 2 Plus:

• Social Mode - ability to connect to 3 devices simultaneously
• Passive radiators enhance low frequencies

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 on their own. 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 been transformed. 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 to 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 operating time, up to 12 hours of playback time.

JBL is a well-known brand with more than 50 years of history, originating in America. Its creator is American James Bullough Lansing.

The company itself has long been part of the large concern Harman International and has been developing audio equipment in all its forms: from headphones to car speakers.

This development of the company belongs to the segment of portable equipment and will be of interest to those people who want to accompany their life with high-quality and loud sound of their favorite music.

It’s spring now - the weather is warm and light, and I want to finally get out of my apartment and into the fresh air, enjoy the parks, the beach or walks in the forest with friends. Or ride a bike, climb a mountain or walk along the streets of the city?

If you are a music lover and want to not be separated from your favorite music even when the environment changes, and want to enjoy clear and loud sound whenever and wherever you want, then this article is for you.

JBL once again pleases us with a high-quality development - these are speakers JBL Charge 2+ - universal, portable and with a lot of interesting and useful functions, which is suitable not only for listening to music.

Read below to see what else the new development offers you.

Everything is as in the photo - a neat cardboard box with a description of the main characteristics and color of the speaker being purchased.

If you buy a speaker in a different color, it will be shown exactly like this on the box:

This is what you will see when you open the box:

Inside you will find the boom box itself, as well as instructions with a mandatory part in Russian, a warranty card for recharging or connecting to other devices, and a power adapter with a plug for a European socket.

If you have a speaker that is not black, but, for example, red, the components will also match its color - which has already become traditional and pleasant, especially for perfectionists. Please note that if parts are lost or replaced, it is still easier to find another black one.

Design, materials

A classic and familiar to the eye design a la “cola bottle”, or as it is also called “audio sausage”.

There are many speakers of this shape, both from the company itself and from competitors.

The surface is made of pleasant-to-touch rubber-like plastic and metal.

Together with its convenient shape, it fits comfortably in your hand, you can place it anywhere, vertically or horizontally, and it won’t take up much space.

On the side there is a metal circle on which the company logo is indicated.

It is attached to a membrane that vibrates with sound- vibration is transmitted to the membrane itself, which looks very beautiful from the outside.

The lower part is rubberized, and a small “stand” is made of rubber to provide stability in a horizontal position.

On the side of the rubber is the name and type of model.

Ergonomics

Thanks to its portability, it is perfect for any place - it will complement a laptop and improve the quality of sound, watching videos, and will be used instead of a music player while walking, cycling or having a picnic in nature.

One of the individual advantages of this new product is JBL Charge 2+ moisture resistance - the manufacturers hint at this even in the design of the product box (on it the speaker seems to be dipped in water).

Of course, you shouldn’t experiment and completely immerse the speaker in water - it may not survive this.

Manufacturers provide a guarantee for the uninterrupted operation of the device in elevated conditions - i.e. when caught in the rain, or listening to music in the bath or swimming pool, you can also take it with wet hands after exercising.

It fits very comfortably in your hand, is compact - it will fit in an average bag and will not cause problems with transportation.

Weight 600 grams (slightly heavier than a half-liter bottle of water).

Control

Manufacturers have taken care to make the controls clear to the touch - the buttons are convex and easy to feel.

They allow you to decrease and increase the volume, stop, change and start a new song.

Supports Connect function- if you have a compatible speaker, then the sound will be even more powerful!

In the photo you can see from left to right: the on/off button, volume down, volume up, Connect function and answering calls via speakerphone.

On the bottom side, on the side of the rubberized base, you will find MicroUSB connectors (the speaker is charged through it), a microphone connector and a full-size USB for charging gadgets.

A noise-canceling microphone can be used, for example, when answering a call while on the move, such as in the pool or on a bicycle.

Connection, controls

Music is played in two ways: when synchronized using Bluetooth technology or using a mini-jack cable.

Via Bluetooth you can synchronize with three devices simultaneously- very convenient in a group to change the music to suit everyone’s wishes.

Please note that the device that was connected first will be played in priority; when playback ends, then the next one. Thus, several participants will not be able to join at the same time - they will wait for their turn.

Sound

The sound of the speakers will be written about because this manufacturer has proven itself very well and all of its previous products had excellent sound.

Therefore, there are no major discoveries here.

The boombox has two 45 mm speakers - the sound is beautiful, high-quality and clear.

Let's add something special for fans of rock and metal - the low frequencies are well-developed and sound great, the volume is enough for a company of more than 10 people outdoors.

Those who were familiar with the previous portable speakers from this company, you will notice that the speaker has become a little larger in size - however, this was done to improve the sound and increase the volume (instead of the previous 15, we now have a power of 20 watts). In addition, there has been an increase offline time work - up to an incredible 12 (!) hours at moderate volume; at maximum it can safely last up to 8 hours.

In addition, you can charge yours directly from the speaker - this is a huge plus if you climb further into the fresh air - i.e. In addition to the speaker, you also get a Powerbank.

Moisture resistance

Moisture protection - designed to work in conditions of high humidity and when exposed to rain. Cannot be completely immersed in water.

Functionality

The main purpose is a speaker, but now you won’t surprise anyone with monofunctional devices.

There is an additional function when connecting a microphone - you can act as a speaker.

There is a function to recharge your phone or tablet from the speaker via USB port.

Price

The average manufacturer price is $150.

The price is considerable, but it is also a price to pay for branded quality and functionality, and even with a large number of competitors, this purchase is desirable for true connoisseurs of pure sound.

Autonomy

A 6000 mAh battery is built-in - this provides a battery life of up to 12 hours at medium volume, and up to 8 hours at maximum volume.

If you use it in parallel and as a recharge for mobile devices, the operating time will be reduced somewhat.

Main technical characteristics

Available colors: indigo blue, red, white, lilac and classic black.

Unusual color solutions - lilac and white colors look beautiful.

All colors are matte due to the top coating being plastic.

conclusions

This device is a combination high-quality sound, ergonomic and attractive design with a wide range of colors.

It will please for a long time work, additional functions and will definitely justify itself in its main purpose - as a company with half a century of production experience.

At the beginning of the season of picnics, beaches and outdoor recreation, this can be a pleasant gift for yourself and your loved ones.