Ultimate Ears BOOM 4: Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

Category: Outdoor Adventures

Key Features

360-Degree Crystal-Clear Sound
15-Hour Battery Life
Floating Design
Waterproof (IPX7)
True Wireless Stereo Pairing
Bass Boost Functionality
Extensive Bluetooth Range (45m/147ft)
Rechargeable Battery with Fast Charging Time (3 Hours)
Shockproof Design
Includes USB-C Cable and Quick Start Guide

Overview and First Impressions

The Ultimate Ears Boom 4 is a premium portable waterproof Bluetooth speaker that offers an impressive array of features designed to make it a versatile companion for outdoor adventures, parties, and everyday use. With its crystal-clear sound quality and advanced connectivity options, the BOOM 4 delivers a standout audio experience that sets it apart from many other similar products on the market.

Design and Build Quality

The BOOM 4 is built with a sleek and modern design, featuring a black color that makes it both stylish and discreet. The speaker's dimensions are compact at 2.87"D x 2.87"W x 7.25"H, making it ideal for travel and storage. However, the build quality could be improved as some users have reported issues with the speaker getting damaged during transport or accidental drops.

Setup and Ease of Use

Setting up the BOOM 4 is straightforward thanks to its intuitive app-based control system. The "PartyUp" feature allows you to pair multiple BOOM speakers for a surround sound experience, which can be particularly useful in larger groups. The app also includes easy-to-use controls for volume adjustment, playlist creation, and hands-free calls. The speaker itself is simple to connect via Bluetooth, though the initial setup might require some patience as it needs to be placed within range of your device.

Sound Quality

The BOOM 4 delivers impressive sound quality with its 360-degree audio capability, providing clear and detailed bass that adds a powerful depth to music. The speaker's crystal-clear sound is enhanced by the inclusion of a bass boost feature, which can be useful for boosting the low end in certain genres or environments. However, some users have reported that the higher frequencies are not as pronounced compared to more expensive speakers.

Bluetooth Performance

The BOOM 4 boasts an impressive Bluetooth range of up to 45 meters (147 feet), which is more than sufficient for most outdoor use scenarios. The speaker can easily connect to multiple devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers, making it a versatile choice for various audio sources. However, the performance may be affected by interference from other wireless devices in close proximity.

Battery Life

The BOOM 4's rechargeable battery lasts up to 15 hours on a single charge, which is an impressive feat for a portable speaker. The fast charging time of just 3 hours allows you to top up the battery quickly when needed. However, some users have reported that the actual battery life may be slightly shorter than advertised in certain conditions.

Durability and Weather Resistance

The BOOM 4 is rated for IPX7 water resistance, meaning it can withstand being submerged in up to 1.5 meters of water for up to 30 minutes without damage. The floating design adds an extra layer of durability by allowing the speaker to float if dropped into water. However, some users have reported that the speaker may not perform as well when exposed to extremely cold temperatures or prolonged exposure to moisture.

Features and Extras

The BOOM 4 comes with several useful features, including a Magic Button for quick control of playback, PartyUp for group listening, and USB-C charging. The included Quick Start Guide is helpful for first-time users, but some may prefer more detailed instructions or tutorials. Additionally, the speaker has a shockproof design and a built-in microphone for hands-free calls.

Performance in Use

During my time using the BOOM 4, I found it to be an excellent companion for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and camping. The crystal-clear sound and bass boost provided a satisfying audio experience, while the long battery life allowed me to enjoy music throughout the day without worrying about recharging. The floating design made it easy to set up and transport, adding to its convenience.

Pros and Cons Summary

Pros: - Excellent crystal-clear sound quality - Impressive 15-hour battery life - Floating and waterproof design for durability - True Wireless Stereo Pairing with PartyUp feature - High Bluetooth range (45m/147ft) - Fast charging time (3 hours) Cons: - Build quality could be improved in terms of durability - Some users reported higher frequency limitations - Battery life may be slightly shorter than advertised under certain conditions

Final Verdict and Recommendation

Overall, the Ultimate Ears Boom 4 is a highly recommended portable waterproof Bluetooth speaker for those looking for an impressive audio experience with advanced features. Its crystal-clear sound quality, long battery life, and durable design make it well-suited for outdoor adventures, parties, and casual listening. While some users may find its build quality lacking, the BOOM 4's performance in terms of sound quality and functionality far outweighs these minor drawbacks. If you're looking for a premium portable speaker that can handle both indoor and outdoor use, the BOOM 4 is definitely worth considering.

Overall Rating

4.5

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