Ultimate Ears EPICBOOM review portable waterproof Bluetooth speaker with big bass and 17hr battery

Description

Big Sound Meets Rugged Design

Testing the Ultimate Ears EPICBOOM, I quickly noticed how solid and well-built the speaker feels in hand. The charcoal black finish gives it a sleek, modern look, and it’s compact enough for easy portability. The attached strap is a thoughtful touch, making it convenient to carry around, especially during outdoor adventures. The IP67 waterproof rating is no joke—this thing can survive a dunk in the pool, a dusty hike, or even a shower jam session without breaking a sweat.

Its dimensions (6.38”D x 4.7”W x 9.5”H) make it slightly larger than some competitors, but this size contributes to its robust sound quality. I’ve taken it to the park, the beach, and even used it in my kitchen while cooking. Whatever the environment, the EPICBOOM feels like it belongs there.

Sound That Packs a Punch

What truly sets this speaker apart is its 360-degree booming bass. With a 94 dB woofer and adaptive EQ, the sound is rich, loud, and immersive. Testing the Outdoor Boost mode, I noticed how it adjusts the audio to cut through ambient noise—perfect for outdoor gatherings. The bass isn’t just loud; it’s deep and nuanced, which is rare for portable speakers.

The customizable EQ in the BOOM app is a game changer. I played around with settings like Podcast Mode and Deep Relaxation Mode, and they genuinely enhance the listening experience for specific content. Music, podcasts, and even gaming audio sound incredible on this device.

Key Benefits

• Waterproof and dustproof for worry-free use in various environments.
• 17-hour battery life keeps the party going without frequent interruptions.
• PartyUp mode allows syncing with other Ultimate Ears speakers for a massive soundstage.
• One-touch NFC pairing simplifies connecting multiple devices.

Downsides to Consider

Even with all its strengths, the EPICBOOM isn’t perfect. While testing, a few things stood out:

• Its weight (4.36 pounds) makes it less travel-friendly for some users.
• The USB-C charging port is a bit awkwardly placed, making it tricky to connect at times.
• Lack of built-in MP3 player functionality may deter users who want standalone playback.

Battery Life That Impresses

One of my favorite features is the 17-hour battery life. I’ve used this speaker for long gaming sessions, outdoor picnics, and even during house cleaning marathons, and it never quit on me. The 3130 mAh battery capacity ensures you won’t need to carry a charger everywhere. While the USB-C charging cable is included, I wish charging were faster for such a powerful battery.

Competing Brands

Comparing this to JBL Flip 6 and Bose SoundLink Flex, the EPICBOOM stands out for its bass depth and waterproofing. JBL’s Flip 6 is lighter and more compact but doesn’t deliver the same bass-heavy soundstage. On the other hand, Bose offers exceptional clarity in vocals and mids, but its speakers are pricier and lack the rugged durability of the EPICBOOM.

Where the EPICBOOM excels is its ability to pair with other speakers using the PartyUp feature, creating a surround sound effect that neither JBL nor Bose currently matches. However, if weight and portability are your priorities, you might lean toward the JBL Flip 6.

Worth Every Penny

Despite its few flaws, this speaker offers exceptional value for its price. The combination of rugged durability, long battery life, and customizable sound settings makes it feel like a premium device without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a casual listener, a party enthusiast, or someone who loves outdoor adventures, this device delivers a lot for what you pay.

I’ve tested several Bluetooth speakers over the years, but this one feels like a true all-rounder. It’s not just a speaker; it’s a portable sound system that can adapt to almost any situation. The waterproofing, booming bass, and versatile pairing options make it a strong contender for anyone in the market for a Bluetooth speaker.

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