Review of BOSS Audio Systems Tube Portable Weatherproof Bluetooth Speaker for Outdoor Adventures

Description

Compact and Rugged Design for Outdoor Use

The BOSS Audio Systems TUBE Portable Weatherproof Bluetooth Stereo Speaker caught my eye with its sleek and durable build. Its compact dimensions of 11.2″ x 4.3″ x 5.1″ make it easy to carry around, whether you’re heading to the beach or setting up for a backyard party. The black composite material feels sturdy, giving me confidence that it can handle being tossed into a bag or even a few accidental bumps. I was particularly impressed by its weatherproof design, boasting an IPX5 rating, which means it can handle splashes or light rain with ease. This was a lifesaver when I accidentally left it outside during a sudden drizzle.

The addition of blue LED illumination is a surprisingly fun touch. It makes the speaker easy to locate in the dark, and honestly, it just looks really cool when you’re using it at night. It’s a small detail, but it adds a lot to the overall experience.

Sound Quality and Performance

For a speaker of its size, the 3-inch woofer and dual cone full-range driver deliver surprisingly robust sound. The first thing I noticed was how clear and balanced the audio was, even at higher volumes. Whether it was bass-heavy tracks or acoustic melodies, the sound never felt tinny or distorted. I tested it with a variety of playlists, and it handled everything from podcasts to electronic dance music exceptionally well.

The True Wireless Stereo feature is a game-changer. Pairing two of these speakers creates a true left and right channel audio experience, which is fantastic for small gatherings or even just chilling in the backyard. I didn’t expect such immersive sound from a portable setup, but this feature exceeded my expectations.

Bluetooth Connectivity and Controls

The Bluetooth range of 30 feet works flawlessly. I could leave my phone in one corner of the room and move freely without any interruptions in the connection. Pairing the speaker was seamless, and the auto-reconnect feature made life easier by remembering previously paired devices.

The button controls on the speaker are intuitive and responsive. Adjusting the volume, skipping tracks, or pausing music is straightforward. I also appreciated the built-in microphone, which allowed for hands-free calls. It’s not something I use often, but it was handy when my mom called while I was cooking and streaming a podcast.

Battery Life and Power Management

The 8-hour battery life is solid, though I did notice it drains a bit faster at maximum volume. For most uses, though, it holds up well. I appreciated the power-saving feature, which automatically turns off the speaker after 15 minutes of inactivity. It’s a thoughtful addition that helps conserve battery when I forget to turn it off.

Charging is simple with the included USB cable, though I wish it came with a wall adapter. That said, I just plugged it into my phone charger, and it worked fine.

Key Benefits

• Weatherproof design makes it ideal for outdoor activities.
• True Wireless Stereo feature provides excellent sound depth when paired with a second unit.
• Compact and portable, perfect for travel or small spaces.

Areas for Improvement

• The battery life diminishes slightly at high volumes, which may be limiting for extended use.
• No included wall adapter for charging, which could be inconvenient for some users.

Rival Brands

Comparing this BOSS portable speaker to alternatives like the JBL Flip series or the Ultimate Ears Boom, I found some notable differences. While the JBL Flip offers slightly punchier bass, the True Wireless Stereo capability of the TUBE gives it an edge for stereo sound enthusiasts. The Ultimate Ears Boom speakers, on the other hand, boast a higher waterproof rating, but they come at a higher price point. The BOSS speaker’s affordability, combined with its robust features, makes it a strong contender in the market.

Affordable Quality

For its price, the BOSS Audio Systems TUBE Portable Speaker delivers impressive value. The combination of weatherproofing, solid sound performance, and useful features like Bluetooth connectivity and built-in mic makes it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers. While it might not have some of the premium features of higher-end models, it’s a reliable and versatile option that punches above its weight class.

Additional information