Big Jambox by Jawbone Review

Overview:

Portable audio that replaces your boom box and maybe even your stereo shelf unit.  Jawbone first released the Jambox a wireless speaker with built-in rechargeable battery.  It connected to your device via auxiliary cable or wirelessly through Bluetooth connection.  The Big Jambox is just that it is a bigger version of the Jambox about 2x the size and about C-note more costly.

Sound:

This unit pumps out the volume.  Many people would be surprised to find this was a portable audio device and not a full fledged stereo unit based on volume alone.  The quality of this sound is great considering the small form factor.  It does leave a bit desired on the low end.  Bass is present but not thumping.  The mids and highs however come across clear and pronounced on nearly everything I played through the unit.  Also works a speaker phone when paired with you phone.  Voice comes across loud and clear and is great for speakerphone situations.  Also you have to option of LiveAudio  which gives you a simulated surround sound effect .  It works well only if you are direct in front of the unit providing 3d sound-shapes   For most situations you will want to keep this feature off.  As it takes some of the overall punch away from the sound.

Design:

The unit is amazingly portable weighing in about as heavy as a ultrabook 2.7 lbs.  Its has metal mesh over the unit minus the sides and 8 feet on the bottom of the unit for stability which are made of a rubberized soft material.  Located on the top you have Play/pause, skip and volume buttons.  It comes in three colors and designs; Graphite Hex, White Wave, and Red Dot.  You have on one side of the unit the power and pairing buttons.  Also located on the same side you have a mini usb for firmware  updates and a DC charging port.  This unit is unable to charge via USB like its predecessor (maybe due to the larger battery).  The battery will last up to 15 hours when connected through a auxiliary cable and around 9 to 12 when connected via blue tooth.  Overall it’s a rugged and durable feeling design while still maintaining a sleek and modern look.

Conclusion:

The unit with is incredible battery and loudness is the ultimate portable speaker system.  At $300 the unit is definitely pricey but is the best in the $300 and under category.  The sound could use some more rounded fullness.  Considering the small form factor I don’t believe more speaker could have been packed in.  

Score:  9/10 Amazing

Pros:  Amazing battery life, easy connectivity, Cool design/form factor, Clear undistorted sound at incredibly high volumes.

Cons:  Lack of bass, Costly($300).