JBL Go wireless speaker review. Wireless speakers JBL GO Black (JBLGOBLK) - Reviews

The May holidays. It is very good to spend this time in nature. Well, it would be nice to take a speaker to nature to listen to your favorite music. Here's an idea for you, JBL Go for 2500 rubles ...

Design, construction

JBL has a very good team and I'm not at all surprised that even the super-budget Go looks great. The packaging is simple, made of transparent plastic, inside there is a speaker, an orange charging cable and documentation. Pay attention, they even thought about the cable, it seems like a trifle but very pleasant. The speaker body is made of rubberized plastic, at the end there is a 3.5 mm jack, a microUSB input, the front part is covered with a metal grill, a small light indicator is hidden under it. On the top of the power button, Bluetooth, volume control and call answer buttons. Surprisingly, this inexpensive speaker did not forget about the speaker to answer the call.





The column is available in seven colors already, these are black (the most boring), blue, yellow, pink, red, white, orange, mint, I recommend choosing some bright color, well, what, some kind of sadness and dullness around? Especially since it's spring.

You can see all colors in the picture. The column is small, fits in any pocket, dimensions are 68.3 x 82.7 x 30.8 mm. There is also a slot for attaching a strap on the end, you will need it to hang the speaker on the handlebars of a bicycle or somewhere else. In general, the impressions from the design and assembly are only positive. A small and beautiful device, JBL's design team needs a big thank you.

Functions

With this speaker, you can listen to music by connecting it to a smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth, in addition, there is a 3.5mm jack. Please note that there is also a speaker for conversations, and the voice quality of the Go is not bad.

Music

The speaker has one speaker and it plays very well, loudly (and there is a volume margin), clean, very good bass, but if someone doesn’t like something, then this speaker costs only 2500 rubles. When you say this, all questions fall away at once. I won’t even develop the topic of sound, because here it’s not bad and that’s the point - let’s leave the nuances and so on for the big, “adult” JBLs. It is gratifying that the company has the strength to produce both solutions like Go and serious systems for home use.

conclusions

“Based on consumer demand, we see that people increasingly need devices “for every day”: simple in functionality, easy to use, high-quality and as portable as possible. The new JBL Go audio system has all the listed advantages, and at its affordable price it will be affordable for a wide range of customers,” says Evgeny Konov, CEO of HARMAN Russia. For some time I can't help but agree with the phrase for the press release, indeed, Go is currently a unique offer on the market and the column arrived just in time. In times of crisis, these are the things that are valuable - great design, all the necessary functions, good sound quality, Bluetooth support and 2500 rubles in retail. Here's what consumers want.

Spending time in nature is especially important now, as is taking a portable audio device with you with a decent battery life. During the May holidays, I got a review of JBL Go - an inexpensive Bluetooth speaker with a speakerphone, to which this review is dedicated.

Spring view

Before us is a rectangular "brother" JBL Clip, the dimensions, materials and functionality of which are the main similarities. The JBL Go portable speaker looks stylish and feels good to hold in your hand. For review, I got a blue speaker with an orange cable included.

1 of 4

The body of the speaker is made of the usual rubberized plastic, a similar material is used in all models of portable acoustics from JBL that came to my review this year. The top panel contains control buttons: volume control, power button, call answer and Bluetooth pairing. On the left side there is a recess with a partition for the strap, and on the right side there are connectors for charging micro-USB and connecting an audio cable, as well as a microphone. The front part is covered with a metal grill that protects the speaker and a small LED indicator.

The column has a rich color palette of body design - there are seven options to choose from (see photo). The gadget is tiny, even fits in a purse: 68.3 x 82.7 x 30.8 mm. As I already wrote, the JBL team has provided a slot for attaching a strap, so putting the speaker inside a bag or pocket is not necessary, as you can hang it somewhere for your convenience. The strap is not included. The design of the device is simple and original, nothing superfluous and quite practical.

Frequency range (Hz) : 160-20000
Sensitivity (dB) : 80
Total power (W) : 3
Wireless interfaces
Bluetooth: 4.0
Dimensions
Dimensions (HxWxT) : 68.3x82.7x30.8
Weight (g) : 150
Battery life (h) : 5

Functionality

The column is equipped with a Bluetooth wireless interface, which will allow you to connect your device to any mobile device that supports this technology, and for the rest, a 3.5mm jack connector is suitable. The presence of a microphone will provide you with a hands-free function with acceptable voice quality. Despite the modest dimensions JBL Go works up to 5 hours without recharging.

Sound quality

The speaker demonstrates clear sound with little bass, the sound quality of this audio device can always be protected at a price of 2000 rubles. The bass reproduction of the JBL Clip seemed a little deeper to me. In turn, JBL Go gives the impression of a solid wireless speaker with a decent volume margin. The solution is still budgetary, this must be taken into account when buying.

Outcome

Due to its low price and unusual design, this model of portable wireless acoustics will become an excellent gadget not only for the younger generation, but connoisseurs of compact and functional devices will also not bypass JBL Go. Probably the best budget device in its class.

The compact JBL GO speaker is a portable wireless accessory that allows true music lovers to enjoy their favorite music.

Equipment

Both the functionality and the equipment of the JBL GO portable speaker are uncomplicated. The package in which the speaker is sold is made of a bright orange microUSB cable and accompanying documentation for the accessory.

Many users in their reviews on GO noted that an additional advantage of the device would be if the manufacturer added a lace to the kit to attach the gadget to jeans or a backpack. The column is small and portable, and therefore such an innovation would be very helpful.

Design

The JBL company in the latest line of its products uses colors aimed at a youth audience. All colors are bright, saturated, stylish and a bit toy. This fate did not spare the JBL GO column - on sale you can find an accessory in black, gray, blue, yellow, red, pink, orange and turquoise shades. Unfortunately, there is no classic white color in the series of acoustic gadgets, but you can live without it.

The owners of the device in the reviews of the JBL GO column note the soft keystrokes and their excellent response. The gadget control buttons are located on the top panel of the case and are flush with it. When pressed, they bend a little, which, judging by the reviews on JBL GO, feels very nice under the fingers.

On the right panel there is a 3.5 mm audio input, a microphone hole and a microUSB connector for charging the speaker. Many music lovers in their reviews of the JBL GO speaker considered the lack of a cable with a mini-jack at both ends, designed to connect a speaker to a sound source, to be a disadvantage. As a result, you have to buy it in addition, which is not good.

On the left side of the case there is a rather large loop for attaching a cord that facilitates the speaker transportation. The shape of the speaker body is rectangular, the corners are not smoothed by anything.

A non-standard approach to the appearance of the gadget during the period of popularity of rounded corners was to the taste of consumers: reviews of JBL GO portable acoustics emphasize the organic nature of the design, which is so out of trend. In the palm of your hand, the speaker looks more like a small Soft-Touch brick, the surface of which is very pleasantly felt under your fingers. The body is made of quality materials, not machined metal or glossy plastic, which is quite often found in Chinese counterparts.

The high-quality, strict and stylish execution of the column is brightened up by the ease and frivolity of the colors.

Technical information about the device is pushed aside on the bottom side of the case. It does not have a special effect on the general appearance, so you can ignore it.

The speaker, located on the front side of the speaker, is covered with a metal mesh, which many music lovers, judging by the reviews on JBL GO, found a very interesting solution.

Device connection

You can connect the speaker using a standard 3.5 mm cable or via Bluetooth. It makes no sense to save battery power by connecting the gadget via a wire: the operating time is practically the same. The data transmission version 4.1 indicates in advance that the power consumption of the acoustic device is very low.

To a new one - a smartphone, tablet, computer, laptop - a portable speaker connects very quickly and easily. There is no need to suffer and rush around the device with a tambourine: visibility mode is turned on on both devices, and after 10-15 seconds a connection is established. The reviews on the JBL GO portable speaker say that to turn on the visibility mode, just press the Bluetooth key on the case once.

There were no disconnections or errors during the operation of the device. The maximum distance to which the sound source can be removed is no more than 5 meters. There should be no obstacles in the path of the signal in the form of walls or other wireless connections - in this case, the sound quality and communication will be ideal.

Periodic switching on and off of the column signals a low charge of the built-in battery. Discharging the battery is also accompanied by a flashing red LED located on the front side of the case under the metal mesh of the speaker. When music is playing, the LED is solid blue.

hands free

The portable speaker can be used as a Handsfree device. The main and only speaker reproduces the subscriber's speech, the voice of the gadget owner is recorded by the built-in microphone with noise reduction function. The voice is perfectly captured by the microphone at a distance of 30 centimeters. You can communicate at a greater distance from the speaker, but the voice of the owner of the speaker will sound muffled and quieter.

You can connect the speaker to only one sound source. Unfortunately, the gadget cannot work with two or more devices at the same time.

Playback sound quality

The power of the sound stream emitted by a speaker with a diameter of 40 mm is 3 watts. It is quite enough to notify the whole street about their own musical preferences, as stated in the reviews on JBL GO. The music played will also be perfectly audible in a room ranging from 120 to 150 square meters.

A huge advantage is the absence of whistles, wheezing and other noise at maximum volume, which usually accompanies the converter voltage.

Music lovers in their reviews on JBL GO say that the column is perfect for playing simple and medium-sized music genres and styles.

Unfortunately, dubstep, metal or hard rock is not worth listening to in such a gadget: portable devices are not capable of playing such genres.

When the speaker is placed on resonating surfaces, low frequencies can be heard. Of course, you should not expect normal bass from acoustics, but you can get something similar from JBL GO.

Offline work

The manufacturer claims that the column is capable of working for 5 hours of continuous music playback. The device is charged for 1.5 hours.

Based on the reviews on JBL GO, it can be judged that the maximum operating time of the speaker when connected to a sound source via a Bluetooth channel at the maximum volume level is 2 hours 38 minutes. After this time, the connection breaks and the gadget turns off. After that, the speaker can play music through a cable, but the quality suffers greatly, and the audio playback time is very short.

The speaker is fully charged in 1 hour 39 minutes. The speaker is connected to a desktop computer or laptop using a USB cable. The charging time increases significantly if the speaker is powered through the AC adapter.

The battery life declared by the manufacturer is confirmed only if the music is played at medium volume.

The cost of the new JBL GO speaker is 1990 rubles. The cost is slightly higher than the average price of such portable gadgets, however, it is worth paying for a bright design, a recognizable brand, functionality and good characteristics. The sound quality is maintained at a high level, not inferior to many expensive analogues of acoustic devices from world famous brands, and significantly outperforms cheaper Chinese speaker models.

JBL Charge waterproof speaker

The JBL Charge speaker is one of the manufacturer's budget models, which has become a kind of bridge between Micro, Clip and JBL GO Black. Reviews on the columns of these models confirm their similarity in functionality.

For the average buyer and music lover, among the entire line of JBL portable acoustics, the Charge model will be the most attractive. Other series have very dubious advantages noted in reviews on JBL GO Teal - carabiners or LEDs, while Charge is more practical and has acquired a large battery that can be used to charge any other portable devices. JBL recently introduced a new, fourth model in the speaker line - Charge 3.

Specifications

• Support for A2DP 1.3, HFP 1.6, HSP 1.2 and AVRCP 1.5 with the ability to connect up to three devices simultaneously via Bluetooth protocol.
• Wired connection via cable with minijack connector.
• Operating mode in the form of a wireless headset.
• Two 50mm wide range drivers and two passive radiators.
• Speaker power - 10 watts.
• The range of reproducible frequencies is from 65 Hz to 20 kHz.
• Noise/signal ratio - more than 80 dB.
• Waterproof protection according to the IPX7 standard - the gadget can be under water for half an hour at a depth of one meter.
• Built-in battery, from which you can charge any other external devices via USB-connector.
• Relatively small weight - 800 grams.
• Dimensions - 213x87x88.5 mm.

Equipment

In the box at Gharge 3, everything is standard and resembles the JBL GO Black reviews: a bright orange power supply, coupled with interchangeable plugs and a microUSB cable. The cover of this model is not required, thanks to IPx7 protection technology.

Design

Early Charge models looked very much like beer cans. The design of the new Charge 3 is in many ways similar to the JBL Xtreme.

Users in their reviews on GO Black jblgoblk note that all the company's products are available in bright and saturated colors - black, red, gray, blue and turquoise.

In the center of the Charge column is the JBL logo, a little lower - a five-position charge level indicator, very convenient and bright. The charge level is easily determined, even if you look at the gadget from above - the glow of the indicator is reflected on the surface of the table.

The control keys are located symmetrically on the top panel. From right to left are the keys to pause the composition, increase the volume, connect via JBL Connect, turn on the device, decrease the volume and connect via Bluetooth.

All speaker connectors are firmly closed with a solid rubber plug. With careful use, the likelihood that it will start to leak is unlikely.

As in the previous speaker model, the connectors are standard - microUSB, 3.5 mm audio output, USB port for charging other gadgets. The output amperes in the Charge speakers are very high, for which we can say thanks to the manufacturer.

Passive radiators are located in recesses at the ends of the column. They do not pass water, like other elements.

The texture of the base of the gadget is embossed, the lower surface itself is small. You can not worry about the stability of the column - due to its weight, it is firmly held in one place.

In Charge 3, not only the charge indicator is illuminated, but also the power button: when synchronizing via Bluetooth, the blue LED is lit, and when it is on, it is standard white. When the JBL Connect mode is running, the corresponding key is lit.

The manufacturer did his best by creating an acoustic device with a unique and unusual design. The case of Charge 3 is symmetrical, made of high-quality material with an original textile coating without unnecessary additions in the form of touch buttons. Some of the manufacturer's other speakers outwardly strongly resemble this model.

Sound quality

The sound in comparison with the previous model has become more balanced, which is especially noticeable when listening to vocals in musical compositions: in many speaker models it comes out on top, while in Charge 3 it harmoniously merges with the ensemble. The openness of the sound, characteristic of this series, has remained unchanged - the main speakers look straight ahead, so there is no need to cheat with their installation.

Charge 3 speakers can work with three different connection schemes. An acoustic device can be connected to the output of a computer audio card via a cable to play music, via a Bluetooth connection to any gadget, transferring tracks to it in high quality through any streaming service.

You should not refuse to use portable systems: the sound quality, depending on the specific type of connection, changes dramatically. The dynamics and sound of individual instruments almost disappear and overlap with vocals when connected via a Bluetooth connection. The sound of better quality tracks is greatly improved.

The JBL Connect mode implemented in the Charge 3 allows you to synchronize several speakers from the same manufacturer at the same time. All devices can be connected using the JBL Connect app. Also, the portable speaker can be used as a wireless headset: this mode is very easy to turn on and, of course, very convenient when traveling or jogging.

Offline work

When connecting a portable Charge speaker via a Bluetooth connection, the device turned off 40 minutes before the time specified by the manufacturer, trying to save the last remaining battery power. However, the column can work for a few more minutes after being turned on again.

If we compare the Charge 3 with the previous version of the same model, we can note an increase in the charging time of the device and a decrease in battery life. When the battery is low, the gadget stopped notifying the owner with sound signals, interrupting the playback of musical compositions - now only the red charge indicator notifies the battery when the battery is low.

The Charge series, like the GO, is constantly being improved by JBL. The manufacturer's priority is the design of the speakers and sound quality. A distinctive feature of Charge portable acoustic devices has become a high class of protection against moisture. As a result, JBL has created a versatile portable device that can be used at any time of the year without fear of failure.

We are accustomed to the fact that if the JBL nameplate is visible on the device, then this is something expensive and at the same time of no less quality. But recently, the American manufacturer decided to expand its audience and began to slowly release affordable portable speakers. Last year, JBL Clip appeared on sale, and this year their continuation is Clip +. But today we will talk about the most affordable wireless speaker from JBL. Ladies and gentlemen, please love and favor - GO, just JBL GO.

JBL GO comes in a translucent package, inside which you can find documentation and a charging cable.

Design

The column is small and neat, made in a rectangular form factor. The main body material is soft-touch plastic, but do not be afraid of fingerprints, they are almost invisible. The front grill is metal and has the JBL logo on it.

In appearance, the GO resembles a miniature guitar cabinet, with legs even placed on the bottom. On the left, there is an eyelet for a lace, you can attach a carabiner and hang the column to something.

Available for sale are 8 colors that emphasize the youthfulness of the device.

Ergonomics

The model is compact (68.3×82.7×30.8 mm) and weighs only 130 g, it will be appropriate in places where there is no access to large speakers.

With such weight and size parameters and shape, you can attach a smartphone to the speaker and watch videos from YouTube, which is very convenient.

The speaker is closed, it is difficult to damage it, so you can safely throw the mini-acoustics into a bag and not worry about safety. The case is not waterproof, this should be taken into account when listening to music on the beach.

Connection, control

The main interface for connection is Bluetooth 4.1, only one device can be paired at a time. You can also see 3.5 mm mini-jack connectors for wired connection of audio sources and Micro USB for charging.

The buttons on top are responsible for control: volume control, pairing, answering a call, on / off.

sound

In terms of sound quality and volume, we are the leader in its price range (of course, we did not take into account the Chinese noname). The speaker plays many times better than the recently reviewed Xiaomi Square Box and approaches the more expensive solution from the Chinese manufacturer - Mi Bluetooth Speaker. But in the latter, in truth, more voluminous bass. JBL GO boasts sound clarity and evenness, even at maximum volume, which is quite high.

My speaker was the main music system at home for a whole week. And the conclusion is this: for an apartment with an area of ​​40 m2, such a solution is quite enough to create a background - you can hear it anywhere. It’s a pity that JBL Connect’s proprietary technology is not supported, which allows you to combine two speakers into one stereo system, but that would be too cool for such a price.

Functionality

The most interesting thing is that with a price tag of $30, the model has a microphone for use as a speakerphone. Also, the functional features include the presence of a 3.5 mm mini-jack, not all competitors can connect wired and wirelessly.

autonomy

The built-in 600 mAh battery allows the speaker to play at medium volume and connect via Bluetooth for about 5-6 hours. Yes, this is not a record figure, there are models that work quietly for 10 or more hours. Charging from a computer lasts 1.5 hours.

Results

Unexpectedly, but JBL has released one of the most worthy contenders among inexpensive wireless speakers. At a price of $30, the model looks nice, is made of good materials, plays well for its size and has good functionality. The only thing you can complain about is the autonomy of 5-6 hours, but this is not a significant drawback, and for many this time will be enough.

Liked:

Appearance, body materials, bright colors

sound

Functionality

Price

Compact dimensions

Did not like:

- Not a record autonomy

The editors would like to thank the Portativ store for the JBL GO speakers provided for review

		1
Speaker power, W	3
Subwoofer power, W	—
Frequency range, Hz	180-20000
Signal-to-noise ratio, dB	80
Amplifier	built-in
Phase inverter	—
USB	Micro USB x1 (for charging)
Bluetooth	Bluetooth 4.1
Airplay	—
NFC	—
mini Jack 3.5mm	x1
Nutrition	USB, battery
Autonomy, hours (battery capacity, mAh)	5 hours / 600 mAh
Housing material	plastic
Finishing material	no data
Dimensions, mm	68.3×82.7×30.8
Weight, kg	0,13
Color	Red
Equipment	micro USB cable
Additionally	Built-in microphone

On the eve of the summer season, the JBL brand announced the Go youth ultra-compact speaker. This model, according to the developer, is the best fit for schoolchildren and students. In which case, you can take it on a picnic, on a hike or to the beach. Well, the price of 2,000 rubles looks very high for this category of consumers. Let's figure out if JBL Go is worth the attention and money?

This time, our editorial staff included one of the smallest speakers available on the market. It's about JBL Go. This is an inexpensive Bluetooth speaker with speakerphone. Target audience - youth. Actually, for this reason, there are already 8 color options for the case on sale: black, white, red, yellow, blue, blue, orange and pink. I tested the most boring version - black.

First impressions. Dimensions and scope of delivery

id="sub0">

Since the JBL Go belongs to the cheapest price category (the speaker retails for 1990 rubles), the packaging here is uncomplicated. This is a transparent plastic box in which the column is placed. Inside the cardboard lining, you can find a charging cable that connects to the computer. It also comes with instructions and a warranty card.

Contents of delivery:

• JBL Go
• USB cable for charging
• Documentation

In terms of dimensions JBL Go is very compact. Dimensions are 68.3 x 82.7 x 30.8 mm, weight 130 grams. In terms of mobility, the performance is just excellent. The gadget is so light that you can carry it with you all the time.

Appearance and controls

id="sub1">

JBL Go has a minimalist look. The speaker is a kind of box, the body of which is made of rubberized plastic.

The top panel contains control buttons. There is a volume key, a power button, call answer and Bluetooth pairing. On the left side there is a recess with a partition for a strap. This will allow you to mount the column on the handlebars of a bicycle or somewhere else.

On the right side of the JBL Go, you can see the connectors for charging micro-USB and connecting an audio cable, as well as a microphone. The front part is covered with a metal grill that protects the speaker and a small LED indicator.

Functionality

id="sub2">

With this speaker, you can listen to music by connecting it to a smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth, in addition, there is a 3.5mm jack.

I tested the speaker with Samsung Galaxy S6 edge, iPhone 5S, MacBook Pro 13. The gadget is quickly detected and starts playing music.

To start pairing, you need to press the Bluetooth button on the top of the speaker. A beep will sound. Next, you need to find the column in the list of available wireless devices and confirm the connection.

In addition, the speaker can be used for hands-free phone calls. There is a built-in microphone here. The voice quality is not bad, but you can't call it ideal. There is no noise cancellation, so the voice is not as good as it usually happens during phone conversations. However, as an option - it's a plus.

Sound quality

id="sub3">

If we talk about technical characteristics, then JBL Go is capable of reproducing sound in the range of 180 Hz - 20 kHz. Signal/noise ratio - 80 dB.

The sound quality is not bad, but it lacks the power that more advanced models have. This is especially pronounced at maximum volume. The volume itself is high, but the quality suffers. The column begins to rattle and rattle. It is necessary to reduce the volume a little, as everything returns to normal.

The lower frequencies are transmitted weakly. Apparently it's a matter of size. A compact and miniature model cannot convey the "bottom".

Along with this, I can not say that JBL Go is bad. It is suitable for listening to music while cycling, it is nice to take it on a country trip or watch a movie on a tablet if the standard volume is not enough. Just the range of use of the gadget is limited.

Battery Life

id="sub4">

The manufacturer claims 5 hours of music listening time. In practice, I got something about that - 4.5-5 hours. This is a decent level for a speaker with such a compact size. For charging, in addition to the original cable from the kit, you can use a USB cable. It takes 2 hours to fully charge via microUSB. Indicators will tell you the level of charge.

Results

id="sub5">

For its audience JBL Go is good. It is compact, well-built, inexpensive, and has a built-in speakerphone. The sound, of course, is not ideal (no low frequencies), but as a hiking option, cycling, picnics, it is 100% suitable.

Advantages

• Small size, compact
• Quality build
• Bright appearance
• Built-in speakerphone

disadvantages

• flat sound
• Whirring at maximum volume

On the day the test review was published, the JBL Go column could be bought at a price of 1,990 rubles.