Audio speaker jbl charge 2. JBL Charge - sound that is always with you. The secret of JBL's success

The first model made a lot of noise last year, and deservedly so. The miniature Bluetooth speaker produced VERY powerful sound. Of course, the sound quality at the maximum volume level could hardly be called exemplary, which is normal in devices of this class, but for picnics, spontaneous parties or work background sound, the thing plays perfectly. In addition, it can charge portable devices from its own battery. This combination of characteristics made the Charge a popular gadget and paved the way for its successor JBL Charge 2 , in which there was more of everything, in the literal sense.

Metal, plastic and rubber

The new product is similar in shape to the previous model, but this common features in design, as well as in filling and ending. HARMAN recycled everything that could be recycled, and for a reason - the company was able to improve the device both outside and inside. She also pleased with her set, which emphasizes that this accessory is perfect for traveling. In particular, in addition to the speaker itself, a large cardboard box contained a power supply with an American plug (it is also suitable for Japan), plus two adapters - for European and for British (Hong Kong) sockets.

Pay attention to the USB→micro-USB cable - it is color-matched and performs two functions at once: it charges the speaker itself, which has a built-in battery 6000 mAh, plus is used to recharge portable devices from Charge 2 (for example, Android smartphones). The iPhone charges just like any other gadget that can replenish its energy reserves from USB:

The speaker connects to sound sources via Bluetooth 4.0, that is, the sound quality is fine - there are no hisses, crackles or any strange interruptions. If wireless module is missing in the source, then you can use a regular 3.5 mm input, however, such a cable is not included with the speakers, you will have to get it separately.

By the way, in addition to the red model, JBL has other Charge 2 options:

The speaker body is mostly made of plastic with a high-quality Soft-touch coating that does not collect fingerprints and is easy to clean from dust. A pair of 45 mm wide-range speakers with a total power of 15 watts (RMS) are covered with a metal mesh in color. Hidden on top under the rubber pad are indicators for power, Bluetooth connection, battery charge level, as well as buttons for volume control, answering/hanging up a call (aka start/pause playback) and mode activation Social Mode.

The latter is interesting if the speaker is listened to in the company of friends. By clicking on it, you get the opportunity to connect three audio sources via Bluetooth to Charge 2 simultaneously and listen to music from each of them in turn. You can organize unique mixes of your guests’ favorite compositions. I tested it by connecting my iPhone and MacBook at the same time - everything works and the speaker picks up music from different sources literally on the fly.

Since there is a button to accept/end calls, it means that there is also a microphone with a speakerphone function in addition. That is, you can use the accessory to receive calls and this feature works well, at least if the room is quiet. I haven't experienced it in a loud environment.

A compact stand is built into the bottom of the gadget, which reliably holds it in a horizontal position, easily withstanding the positive vibrations of the acoustics. maximum volume. True, on external influence it is not designed, so it is better not to test the speaker with light kicks for stability when it is standing on the edge of the table.

Let's finish studying the design of the device with the most interesting element - a pair of metal plates with a company logo along the edges of the cylinder. Let's talk about the technical part, after which we will smoothly move on to the sound. The mentioned plates are there for a reason. Firstly, they are part passive low frequency radiators. Secondly, they simply vibrate and move beautifully when the speaker sounds - there is a feeling of power and the device automatically gets +100 to its sound quality.

As for the design of the speaker, there is an acoustic chamber inside it, pumped by a pair of 45 mm speakers, and due to the pressure created, the emitters are activated, significantly increasing the level of reproduced bass. By the way, this is one of the most bassy and loud speakers in your class. I can’t believe that such a little thing produces such a powerful acoustic stream, and then you look at the dancing plates at the ends and understand: “JBL engineers and designers do not eat their bread in vain.” A great example where design and technology are intertwined.

Pay attention to the greased metal plate - these are not my crooked hands, but shooting at a low shutter speed while the speaker performs a powerful bass burst, and the plate at this moment vibrates sparklingly. Impressive sight

Acoustic cylinder

The speaker sounds good, but not all songs come easily to it at maximum volume, which is enough to powerfully sound a room of 20 meters in area. At a volume of 50–70%, the accessory copes with almost any genres and songs perfectly, surprising along the way with the powerful and detailed bass, good mids and clear highs. In general, this is an ideal gadget for creating a working atmosphere and background sound - it works very well.

In addition, this is the first such compact acoustics in my memory that can play any heavy compositions so well at the volume level mentioned above. If you turn it up to the maximum, then be prepared for some loss in detail and depth of low frequencies. I noticed this on some songs by Beny Benassy, ​​on a number of compositions by Nero and other DubStep teams, in some songs by Samael. But pop music, trance, house, chill-out, and most of the heavy metal that I listen to, even at maximum, do not make the speaker scream - it plays perfectly and is surprisingly powerful for its size. Again, controversial songs also sound great at medium volume levels.

Among the interesting features, I also noticed the very fast connection of the speaker via Bluetooth - pairing occurs literally in a second, while with other devices the initialization process can take five seconds or even more. As for autonomy, at an average volume level the new product plays without any problems 12 hours. However, take into account the fact that if you decide to recharge your smartphone or tablet from the speaker, this will shorten the disco time.

HARMAN has not only improved the popular portable audio system, the company has created one of the best representatives in its class. Charge 2 has a unique bass response, in most cases it is able to perfectly reproduce music even at the maximum, very impressive volume level and contains capacious battery, which can be used for recharging portable equipment. The recommended retail price of the device is 6990 rub..

JBL Charge 2 Specifications:

• Bluetooth 4.0;
• power - 2 x 7.5 Watt;
• battery capacity - 6000 mAh;
• time battery life- 12 hours;
• dimensions - 180 x 76 x 76 mm;
• weight - 540 g.

You can buy Charge 2 and other JBL devices at

Wireless jbl column charge 2 is the clear leader in sales in the acoustic equipment segment. Why does it attract buyers so much? The secret of success lies not only in an adequate price, but also in technical capabilities columns.

Characteristics

Detailed introduction to portable speaker charge 2 from the manufacturer jbl, you should start by studying its technical characteristics:

• wireless connection is carried out using bluetooth technology (version 3.0), A2DP V1.3, AVRCP V1.5, HFP V1.6, HSP V1.2 protocols are supported;
• presence of 3 connectors. The device is charged via Micro-USB; the sound source can also be connected via the 3.5 mm TRS port (not only via Bluetooth). Through the USB input, the speaker can be in contact with other devices - a phone or tablet;
• one of the main indicators of capabilities portable acoustics– signal-to-noise ratio. The description of the device states a figure of 80 decibels - this is comparable to the sound of a running motorcycle or a loud scream;
• frequency range (this indicator characterizes the quality of the reproduced sound) ranges from 75 Hz to 20 kHz;
• built-in 6000 mAh battery – powerful enough for long-term operation;
• column size – about 18.5 cm in length, diameter – 76 mm;
• device weight – just over 550 grams;
• The package also includes a cable for charging the device, a power supply, and 2 replaceable plugs.

TO interesting features jbl charge 2 speakers include the Social Mode function - 2-3 users can connect to the device at the same time. Tracks from their devices will be played in order, with a minimum pause between musical compositions. You can enable the Social Mode function by pressing one button on the top of the column - it depicts three silhouettes of people. With the same button you can switch tracks without waiting for them to finish.

While playing music, a call may come from your phone - in this case, the charge 2 speaker has a microphone. It is noteworthy that the sound of a ringtone will flow from the speaker. It is possible to answer a call through the speaker, that is, it can be used as a speakerphone. When the call ends, the device will automatically continue playing audio files.

You can’t ignore one more in the review useful function– using the speaker you can charge various gadgets, for example, a smartphone or tablet. This can be done via a cable connection via a USB port. Please note that the charging process will take long time– up to several hours. If you use the speaker to recharge other devices, its battery life will significantly decrease.

Also deserves attention appearance acoustic device. The column is streamlined in shape, vaguely reminiscent of a tin can, there are no outstanding details that distract attention. The buttons are flush with the top panel, the connectors are hidden almost at the very base. The buttons are backlit, and there is also a battery charge indicator - these are 5 dots that are also illuminated. The speakers are decorated with steel-colored membranes with the manufacturer's logo, which vibrate effectively while playing low-frequency music.

Advantages and disadvantages

Like any budget or amateur equipment, portable acoustics Charge 2 from the manufacturer JBL has its advantages and disadvantages. Even with a quick study of the functionality, several advantages emerge at once.

1. High-quality sound – the device copes with its main task perfectly. In any situation, be it an apartment party, an outing or a corporate event in the office, loud and clear sound is guaranteed everywhere. Of course, it will be difficult to compete with professional charge 2 speaker systems, but due to the modest price, you can turn a blind eye to this.
2. Acceptable price. You can purchase acoustics from JBL for about 5,000 rubles, and if there are promotions in the store, the cost will barely exceed 3,000 rubles. This sets Charge 2 apart from its closest competitors - the price of similar speakers from other brands is approximately 20% higher;
3. Long working time. Play music at medium volume wireless speaker Can up to 17 hours without recharging! If you increase the volume, the operating time will decrease by a couple of hours. But even at full volume, the speaker will work for at least 12 hours!
4. Stylish and ergonomic design. The elegant shape of the speaker has already been mentioned above; now it’s worth paying attention to the ease of use of the Charge 2. The device is pleasant to hold in your hands - the body is made of dense rubber with a velvety matte surface. Dust, minor dirt and scratches are almost invisible. During operation, the column can be placed horizontally - there are several elevations at the end. In a vertical position, the device is less stable, but such placement is also acceptable. The speaker is available not only in black, but also in blue, red, white and violet colors.
5. Compactness. Its light weight and size allow you to take the device on trips or simply carry it in your pocket. Adherents of a healthy lifestyle will certainly appreciate the ability to attach the speaker to a bicycle bottle holder.
6. Practicality. In addition to its main function, the speaker will help recharge a dead phone or tablet in “hiking” conditions.

The JBL Bluetooth speaker has far fewer disadvantages than advantages. Minor shortcomings are revealed only when comparing the functionality of charge 2 with more expensive models.

1. Long recharging. It's about both about the device itself (the speaker can be recharged in about 3-3.5 hours), and about charging other gadgets, such as phones, via a USB connection.
2. The column is not universal. In very small or large rooms, the sound may not be ideal, and errors may occur when playing chamber music.
3. The case is not protected from moisture. It means that sound system It is not advisable to use outdoors in damp weather or in damp rooms.

Comparison with charge and charge 3

The popular charge 2 speaker has a predecessor - the charge model. Compared to the first version, there have been big changes in the appearance and contents of Charge 2:

• the two-color body in a sporty style was transformed into a plain one with soft outlines;
• The sound quality has improved when connecting the speaker via Bluetooth. In the first version, mid-frequencies caused complaints; the Charge 2 model has no such problems;
• acceptance function appeared incoming call from the phone, since there was no microphone before;
• The duration of work increased from 8 hours to 14-18 hours. According to many consumers, this was the most anticipated change;
• The weight of the device has also changed - previously the speaker weighed more than 650 grams.

According to the subjective feelings of some users, even the quality of the plastic and rubber coating of the case has improved!

If we compare the charge 2 and charge 3 models, then latest version There have also been significant improvements:

• the case has become waterproof - the device is not afraid of rain, humidity and even full immersion in water;
• sound quality has improved. If in earlier versions In the JBL Charge line, picky music lovers were dissatisfied with the reproduction of low frequencies, but now the sound is recognized as almost flawless;
• The design is dominated by recognizable features, but the color range of the speaker body has expanded to 11 shades. On sale you can find devices of unusual turquoise or burgundy color;
• The battery charge capacity has also increased - up to 20 hours. Even if you use the speaker every day for several hours in a row, you will need to charge it once every 8-10 days;
• The size and weight of the speaker have become larger, but the ergonomics have remained at the same comfortable level.

Changes in the Charge 3 device could not but affect the price. Now the cost of a speaker starts from 8,000 rubles and can fluctuate up to 12,500 rubles. But even this cost allows Charge 3 to successfully compete in the market with other speaker systems.

Having compared the advantages and disadvantages of the Charge 2 speaker from the JBL brand, we can conclude that this model successfully combines full set necessary functions and a reasonable price. A a nice bonus for the buyer is the luxurious appearance of the speaker and the proven reputation of the JBL manufacturer over the years.

Once again we can write that the time has come for beaches and outings into nature. But this has already been written, and it doesn’t look much like beaches yet. In this article we will talk about an interesting universal speaker that is great for listening to music in different situations.

The device was provided by the Portativ store

Traditionally for JBL, acoustics are packaged in a neat box. Inside is the boombox itself, an AUX cable, micro USB and a power adapter with a European socket attachment.

Design, materials

Charge 2+ has a classic JBL design - a kind of “audio sausage”. Both JBL and other competing companies have plenty of identically shaped speakers. The design is made of pleasant soft-touch plastic and a metal “grill”.

The lower part is rubberized for better fixation on the surface. Large woofers are placed on the sides to provide spacious bass.

Ergonomics

The speaker is convenient to use in almost any place - as an acoustic system for a laptop, outdoors, when riding a bicycle, etc. JBL Charge 2+ is not afraid of moisture, which means the model can be used even in the rain. But the speaker will not survive immersion in water, so there is no point in experimenting. The model fits perfectly in the hand and allows you to transport it in any bag or backpack. The acoustics weigh 600 grams.

Connection, controls

You can play music using Bluetooth technology or via a mini-jack cable. Display of battery charge in the notification shade is supported. Up to three devices can be connected via Bluetooth at the same time, which is very helpful in a company where everyone shouts: “oooh, now I’ll play this track.”

On the top there are speaker control buttons: power, volume up/down, and Bluetooth pairing.

Sound

Here the little one from JBL does not surprise us, since everyone knows that the speakers from this manufacturer play very cool, even the smallest and frail-looking ones. With Charge 2+ there are absolutely no discoveries - two 45 mm speakers produce very high-quality and loud noise. I was pleased with the elaboration and the amount of low frequencies. Personally tested - the speaker coped with the sound of a picnic for 15 people, everyone noted the detailed sound and volume.

Functionality

In addition to its main purpose, JBL Charge II Plus has a built-in microphone for use as a speakerphone. On high quality You shouldn't expect voice transmission, but in a quiet environment it's quite good. I would also like to note the possibility of recharging portable devices like smartphones and tablets from the built-in battery.

Price

$150. At this price, the speaker has a lot of competitors, but the Charge2+ holds its own and is desirable even with its price tag, which for many is not very attractive.

Autonomy

The built-in 6000 mAh battery allows you to play music for up to 12 hours. As already written above - passed USB port for charging portable devices. The latter is very important in nature, where there is no way to recharge a smartphone, and the battery is about to run out.

Site evaluation

Pros: Sound, design, ergonomics, autonomy, ability to charge portable devices, simultaneous connection of three devices via Bluetooth

Minuses: Built-in microphone quality

Conclusion: JBL Charge 2+ is a good symbiosis high-quality sound, beautiful design, long operating time and good functionality in sufficient compact body, which you can take with you anywhere. And the cost is not at the level to shout: “it’s very expensive!” On the eve of the beach and barbecue season, it's time to take a closer look at such devices. And the hero review certainly will not disappoint you.

Specifications

Contents of delivery

• Column
• USB cable
• Replacement forks
• power unit
• Documentation

It was the JBL Charge that became the first portable speaker for many people in Russia. People like that it’s inexpensive, can charge a smartphone, and has, as they say, “good bass.” The second version of Charge is even better. And here's Charge 2+, with water protection...

Design, construction

The main difference from Charge 2 is protection from water, I won’t torment you with repetitions from the review. Or rather, I will, but I’ll say the main thing right away. The speaker can be washed under running water; it can easily withstand rain in the forest if water from the pool suddenly gets in or something similar happens. It cannot be completely immersed in water. These are some strange recommendations. The photographs show how I mocked the column. How will the contacts in the connectors behave? good question. It’s a pity that the column will be taken away from me after the test. Maybe the next journalist will tell about her fate. But so far it’s working as expected and doesn’t seem to be going to die. In addition to water, the speaker is not afraid of dust, sand, and, in principle, dirt too. Then you can wash it.

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 eight colors: black, blue, grey, orange, pink, red, mint and yellow.

The selection is unusual, orange and yellow look great, there have never been anything like them before. 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, and 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 light indicators, these are the power button, activating Bluetooth (it is also responsible for pairing), adjusting the volume, and 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 great music. This is true in the summer. In general, this is true at any time of the year.

There are light indicator dots on the top part; they will tell you what is happening with the speaker’s battery. Please note that it takes a long time to charge, since it uses a capacious battery.

Connection methods

You can connect any device to 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 his 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

Below I almost completely repeat the chapter from JBL review Charge 2, there are no special changes here. What bothered me a little was that when used with the iPhone 6 Plus, there were some interruptions in playback after the phone left the coverage area and was then connected again (auto-connection). And I tried different programs to play music. It seems like the problem is on the speaker side. Perhaps this is a glitch of my particular sample; after rebooting the speaker and smartphone, this behavior did not recur. If you are already using Charge 2+ and encounter a similar problem, write to me. 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. The Charge 2+ added the SoundClear function, essentially a noise reduction system for using the device as a speakerphone. It seems to me that talking has become even better now.

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, they are perceived completely differently low frequencies compared to the first generation column. In general, 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

JBL Charge 2 Plus - updated version hit model of 2014 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. "Chip" JBL - a speaker with bright colors (orange, red, etc.), which is protected from moisture and equipped with 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

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