Bose SoundLink Revolve+ II Bluetooth Speaker Review Portable Design with 360° Sound and Durability

Description

An Impressive Portable Audio Experience with the Bose SoundLink Revolve+ (Series II)

Testing the Bose SoundLink Revolve+ (Series II) Bluetooth speaker was a rewarding experience, though not without its quirks. As someone who values high-quality sound and versatility in a portable speaker, I found this device had plenty to offer. At the same time, there are a few caveats to consider before diving in. Here’s my take after using it in various settings, from casual home listening to outdoor gatherings.

Sleek Design and Portability

One of the first things that struck me about this speaker was its cylindrical, minimalist design, which feels sleek and modern. The flexible fabric handle is a standout feature because it makes carrying the speaker around so effortless. Whether I was moving it from the living room to the patio or taking it to a friend’s backyard barbecue, the portable design lived up to its promise.

The material feels sturdy, and the aluminum body gives it a premium vibe. Plus, its IP55 water- and dust-resistance rating made me feel confident using it outdoors, even when there were slight splashes near the pool. However, I did notice that the speaker’s matte black finish tends to pick up fingerprints, so frequent cleaning might be necessary if you want it to look pristine.

Outstanding 360-Degree Sound Quality

Sound is where this device truly shines. The 360-degree sound projection ensures that no matter where you place it, the audio fills the space evenly. I tested it by placing it in the center of a room during a small gathering, and everyone commented on the balanced, immersive sound. The bass was rich but not overpowering, and the mids and highs were crystal-clear.

Another test involved setting it near a wall, which allowed the sound to radiate and reflect, creating a deeper sense of immersion. Whether I was streaming music or listening to a podcast, the dynamic sound made every experience enjoyable. Compared to other portable speakers I’ve tried, this one felt more refined and detailed.

Battery Life That Keeps Up

The 16-hour battery life is one of the device’s biggest selling points. I never had to worry about it dying during long listening sessions. Charging it via the Micro-B USB port was straightforward, though I do wish it supported USB-C, as that has become the standard for faster charging.

Voice prompts made Bluetooth pairing hassle-free, and the connection remained stable within its 9-meter range. It’s worth noting that the speaker comes with a lithium-ion battery included, which adds to its convenience.

Key Benefits

• 360-degree sound projection ensures uniform audio throughout the room.
• Durable and portable design with a convenient fabric handle.
• Water- and dust-resistance makes it ideal for outdoor use.
• Long battery life supports extended listening sessions.
• The ability to pair two speakers for Stereo or Party Mode enhances versatility.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its many positives, the speaker isn’t without its flaws:

• The Micro-B USB charging port feels outdated compared to USB-C.
• Its matte finish attracts fingerprints and smudges.
• While the sound quality is superb, the bass could feel slightly underwhelming for those who prefer heavier low-end tones.

Other Options

In a crowded market of portable speakers, this one has to contend with several market rivals. For example, the JBL Charge 5 offers similar portability and water resistance but leans more toward bass-heavy sound. On the other hand, the Ultimate Ears Boom 3 excels in vibrant, colorful designs and a fully waterproof build.

What sets the Bose SoundLink Revolve+ II apart is its refined audio balance and 360-degree sound coverage, which neither of these competitors quite matches. However, its lack of USB-C charging and slightly higher price point make it feel a bit behind in some areas.

True Value

Talking about the value proposition, this speaker delivers a premium audio experience that’s hard to beat. While it may cost more than other options, the build quality, sound performance, and battery life justify the investment. It feels like a speaker designed for those who appreciate high-end audio but also need portability and durability.

My overall experience with this device was both satisfying and insightful. It’s a speaker that combines style, substance, and durability, making it a fantastic choice for audiophiles and casual listeners alike. The thoughtful touches, like the Bose Connect app and the ability to pair with other Bose Smart Family devices, make it even more versatile. However, a few minor drawbacks, such as the outdated charging system, prevent it from being perfect.

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