JBL is a well-known brand with more than 50 years of history, originating in America. Its creator is American James Bullough Lansing.

The company itself has long been part of the large concern Harman International and has been developing audio equipment in all its forms: from headphones to car speakers.

This development of the company belongs to the segment of portable equipment and will be of interest to those people who want to accompany their life with high-quality and loud sound of their favorite music.

It’s spring now - the weather is warm and light, and I want to finally get out of my apartment and into the fresh air, enjoy the parks, the beach or walks in the forest with friends. Or ride a bike, climb a mountain or walk along the streets of the city?

If you are a music lover and want to not be separated from your favorite music even when the environment changes, and want to enjoy clear and loud sound whenever and wherever you want, then this article is for you.

JBL once again pleases us with a high-quality development - these are speakers JBL Charge 2+ - universal, portable and with a lot of interesting and useful functions, which is suitable not only for listening to music.

Read below to see what else the new development offers you.

Everything is as in the photo - a neat cardboard box with a description of the main characteristics and color of the speaker being purchased.

If you buy a speaker in a different color, it will be shown exactly like this on the box:

This is what you will see when you open the box:

Inside you will find the boom box itself, as well as instructions with a mandatory part in Russian, a warranty card for recharging or connecting to other devices, and a power adapter with a plug for a European socket.

If you have a speaker that is not black, but, for example, red, the components will also match its color - which has already become traditional and pleasant, especially for perfectionists. Please note that if parts are lost or replaced, it is still easier to find another black one.

Design, materials

A classic and familiar to the eye design a la “cola bottle”, or as it is also called “audio sausage”.

There are many speakers of this shape, both from the company itself and from competitors.

The surface is made of pleasant-to-touch rubber-like plastic and metal.

Together with its convenient shape, it fits comfortably in your hand, you can place it anywhere, vertically or horizontally, and it won’t take up much space.

On the side there is a metal circle on which the company logo is indicated.

It is attached to a membrane that vibrates with sound- vibration is transmitted to the membrane itself, which looks very beautiful from the outside.

The lower part is rubberized, and a small “stand” is made of rubber to provide stability in a horizontal position.

On the side of the rubber is the name and type of model.

Ergonomics

Thanks to its portability, it is perfect for any place - it will complement your laptop and improve the quality of sound, watching videos, will be instead music player on a walk, while riding a bike or having a picnic in nature.

One of the individual advantages of this new product is JBL Charge 2+ moisture resistance - the manufacturers hint at this even in the design of the product box (on it the speaker seems to be dipped in water).

Of course, you shouldn’t experiment and completely immerse the speaker in water - it may not survive this.

Manufacturers provide a guarantee for the uninterrupted operation of the device in elevated conditions - i.e. when caught in the rain, or listening to music in the bath or swimming pool, you can also take it with wet hands after exercising.

It fits very comfortably in your hand, is compact - it will fit in an average bag and will not cause problems with transportation.

Weight 600 grams (slightly heavier than a half-liter bottle of water).

Control

Manufacturers have taken care to make the controls clear to the touch - the buttons are convex and easy to feel.

They allow you to decrease and increase the volume, stop, change and start a new song.

Supports Connect function- if you have a compatible speaker, then the sound will be even more powerful!

In the photo you can see from left to right: the on/off button, volume down, volume up, Connect function and answering calls via speakerphone.

On the bottom side, on the side of the rubberized base, you will find MicroUSB connectors (the speaker is charged through it), a microphone connector and a full-size USB for charging gadgets.

A noise-canceling microphone can be used, for example, when answering a call while on the move, such as in the pool or on a bicycle.

Connection, controls

Music is played in two ways: when synchronized using Bluetooth technology or using a mini-jack cable.

Via Bluetooth you can synchronize with three devices simultaneously- very convenient in a group to change the music to suit everyone’s wishes.

Please note that the device that was connected first will be played in priority; when playback ends, then the next one. Thus, several participants will not be able to join at the same time - they will wait for their turn.

Sound

The sound of the speakers will be written about because this manufacturer has proven itself very well and all of its previous products had excellent sound.

Therefore, there are no major discoveries here.

The boombox has two 45 mm speakers - the sound is beautiful, high-quality and clear.

Let's add something special for fans of rock and metal - the low frequencies are well-developed and sound great, the volume is enough for a company of more than 10 people outdoors.

Those who were familiar with the previous portable speakers from this company will notice that the speaker has become slightly larger in size - however, this was done to improve the sound and increase the volume (instead of the previous 15, we now have a power of 20 watts). In addition, there has been an increase offline time work - up to an incredible 12 (!) hours at moderate volume; at maximum it can safely last up to 8 hours.

In addition, you can charge yours directly from the speaker - this is a huge plus if you climb further into the fresh air - i.e. In addition to the speaker, you also get a Powerbank.

Moisture resistance

Moisture protection - designed to work in conditions of high humidity and when exposed to rain. Cannot be completely immersed in water.

Functionality

The main purpose is a speaker, but now you won’t surprise anyone with monofunctional devices.

There is an additional function when connecting a microphone - you can act as a speaker.

There is a function to recharge your phone or tablet from the speaker via USB port.

Price

The average manufacturer price is $150.

The price is considerable, but it is also a price to pay for branded quality and functionality, and even with a large number of competitors, this purchase is desirable for true connoisseurs of pure sound.

Autonomy

A 6000 mAh battery is built-in - this provides a battery life of up to 12 hours at medium volume, and up to 8 hours at maximum volume.

If you use it in parallel and as a recharge for mobile devices, the operating time will be reduced somewhat.

Main technical characteristics

Available colors: indigo blue, red, white, lilac and classic black.

Unusual color solutions- lilac and white colors look beautiful.

All colors are matte due to the top coating being plastic.

conclusions

This device is a combination high-quality sound, ergonomic and attractive design with a wide range of colors.

It will delight you with a long operating time, additional functions and will definitely justify itself in its main purpose - as a company with half a century of production experience.

At the beginning of the season of picnics, beaches and outdoor recreation, this can be a pleasant gift for yourself and your loved ones.

Charge 2 is a high-quality, stylish and generally glamorous thing for lovers of portable audio. The latter is always a compromise, mainly between sound quality and portability. In this case, in addition to all this, JBL also offers a stylish appearance, as well as additional functionality. Which one? We'll talk about this in the review.

Equipment

The bright packaging made of thick cardboard with high-quality printing hides, of course, the speaker itself, as well as an impressively sized power supply (5V, 2.3A), cable Micro USB one meter long and a bunch of accompanying documentation. Where would we be without this? By the way, all accessories are made to match the gadget. For example, the red column comes with adapters and wires of the same color.

The kit included another adapter for English sockets. You never know who might find this useful.

Design

Barrel! This is one word that can describe the appearance of the gadget. Of course, this is almost a standard form factor among similar devices. This is primarily due to the nuances of sound extraction. Therefore, manufacturers can only play up the appearance of their creations through the materials of the body, various inserts and frills.

Let's start with the materials. The speakers here are covered with a metal mesh, and the rest of the body is made of plastic with the familiar soft-touch coating. The speaker is pleasant to touch and hold in your hands. You can feel the quality of the item and the glamor it exudes.

On the sides there are passive radiators that are responsible for transmission low frequencies. When playing audio, their vibrations are very noticeable to others and this especially impresses everyone. By the way, it is strongly not recommended to touch the surface of radiators.

In the video below you can clearly see what it looks like in real life.

On the top plane are all the controls with their own icons. First things first (from left to right).

The first is the power button. Like the other keys, it is not touch sensitive, but simply bends under pressure until it clicks. The ride is soft and precise.

Next comes the activation key Bluetooth connections. And after it are minus and plus, of course, responsible for adjusting the volume. Of course, the sound power is adjusted either on the Charge 2 itself or on the sound source. Everything is synchronized.

There is also a strip of LEDs located here, which are an indicator of the remaining charge. By default, they light up in white, lunar color, and when there is a minimum charge remaining, the outermost one is illuminated with a red light.

Next comes an icon of three men. This key is responsible for activating Social Mode. Later I will tell you more about this feature.

The last key is responsible for accepting (rejecting) calls. At incoming call the speaker starts playing something like a MIDI melody to the paired device. Such a cheerful and cheerful anthem.

Since we are talking about challenges, it is worth talking about the following.

Let's return to design. We ended up with white acoustics and this is not the best color option. Yes, the appearance is very nice.

Pure white adds a special charm and airiness, but it is completely impractical. Quite quickly the body becomes covered with stains of unknown origin.

Actually this is normal. Don't keep the gadget under a glass.

On other colors, this will most likely be much less noticeable. Actually, the following palette is available: black, white, red, blue and purple.

On the bottom of the acoustics there are connectors: Micro USB port, standard 3.5 mm audio input, as well as regular USB. Why the last exit is installed here, I will tell you in the section about power.

The speaker should be installed either on a rubber edging stand located below, or vertically. Especially for this purpose, small ribs are provided at one of the ends. The position does not affect the playback quality in any way.

Inside the edging stand there are various Technical information. It's nice that the manufacturer took care of partial Russification of the text here.

JBL Charge 2 Specifications:

• 2 x 45 mm (1.75 in) speakers
• total power 7.5 W
• reproduced frequency range 75 - 20,000 Hz
• signal/noise ratio 80 dB
• Bluetooth 3.0 with the following profiles:
• A2DP V 1.3, AVRCP V 1.5, HFP V 1.6, HSP V 1.2
• Bluetooth transmitter power is 0 - 4 dB/mW
• battery (lithium polymer)
• dimensions 185.2 mm in length and 79 mm in diameter
• weight 540 g

Pairing

Connection via Bluetooth is clear and fast. No additional codes are needed to establish a connection. On the speaker, just hold down the “blue tooth” key, and on your smartphone (tablet) just start searching for devices.

That's not all.

Charge 2 has support for connecting to three devices at once and playing music from each of them in turn (Social Mode).

In fact, it turned out that three devices located in close proximity interfere with each other, so playback from some devices causes noticeable stuttering and interference. Two gadgets in a grid do not have any mutual influence on each other.

I almost forgot to tell you something else. If a call is connected to one of the connected devices, playback from the other stops and the speaker starts working in Hands-free mode.

Playback and sound quality

The most important and interesting.

Firstly, the speaker is very loud. It is very difficult to communicate in a room with the volume turned up to maximum - you have to shout.

In addition, such a seemingly miniature contraption can pump up a rather impressive-sized apartment.

Secondly, the low frequencies are really present here. Moreover, if some similar speakers need to be installed on a resonating surface (wooden shelf, parquet floor) to extract bass from them, then Charge 2, in principle, does not need this. The acoustics can deliver bass right out of your hands.

However, the speaker is not very well suited for deep and rich music.

For example, the same AC/DC sound quite good, but the acoustics can no longer cope with something faster, for example, with Nightwish. The instruments merge into a continuous viscous audio mush. However, it is worth paying tribute: squeaks, whistles and various wheezing do not appear even at the highest volume.

The gadget copes well with other melodies that are simpler in terms of richness. It plays, it rumbles, and it doesn't hurt your ears in any way.

Battery life

The built-in is responsible for power supply lithium ion battery capacity 6000 mAh (3.7 V). On the one hand, this is not much, on the other hand, the manufacturer promises 12 hours of continuous audio playback. Of course, this will vary depending on the volume level and quality of the content.

Practical tests have shown that the device is completely discharged in less than 9 hours of playing music at maximum volume. Of course, the content was broadcast to the speaker via Bluetooth. Full charging takes about 3.5 hours at a current of 2.3A.

There is another nice functionality. The acoustics can recharge third-party devices using any Micro USB cable. I tried this trick with Sony Xperia Z3 (3100 mAh battery). The gadget gave all its charge to the smartphone in less than an hour, while the phone was charged only 67 percent. In theory, the charge volume should have been enough for almost two full charging cycles of the Sonya. Most likely the reason is that the output current power is 2.1A, which provides uneconomical consumption of the power supply capacity, but a fairly fast rate of energy replenishment.

In other words, gadgets charge quickly, but Charge 2 consumes its capacity, so to speak, irresponsibly.

Bottom line

IN this moment official JBL Charge 2 price settled at around 6,990 rubles. For this money you can get a cool, loud and bassy sound that will not let go for half a day. And here the body is stylish and pleasant both to the eye and to the touch.

As a portable battery, the speaker did not perform well. Its capacity is not enough for a full charge modern smartphone, where 3000 - 3500 mAh have already become the norm. However, such functionality will definitely not be superfluous.

It is unlikely that such a thing is bought for a loved one. Again, almost all such electronics are an excellent and cool gift. Of course, music lovers will be most pleased with the gift. However, you should not give it to fans of hard and intense rock for the reasons I mentioned above. People are capricious because they like to distinguish between rhythm and bass guitar playing by ear. Or something like that. Do you need it, then to be the object of secret insults from the gifted?

One of the most popular brands of audio equipment in world markets is the JBL brand, created in 1946 and owned by the Harman International concern. The company produces various devices, ranging from car subwoofers to headphones and portable speakers. Latest model The JBL Charge 2 portable speaker has joined the line.

Specifications

• Using Bluetooth 3.0 protocol for wireless connection up to three devices simultaneously.
• TRS 3.5 mm connector for wired connection.
• Ability to work in wireless headset.
• Two passive radiators.
• Two wide range speakers.
• Maximum noise level - 80 dB.
• Frequency range - from 75 to 20 thousand Hz.
• Integrated 6000 mAh battery.
• Ability to charge third-party gadgets via USB connector.
• Small weight - 602 grams.
• Compact dimensions - 184x76x76 mm.

Contents of delivery

The JBL Charge 2 portable speaker only comes with a power supply, replacement plugs and instruction manual. No additional accessories are implied.

Charge 2 design

The appearance of Charge 2 is practically no different from the previous model and is focused only on mobile and general use. The original JBL Charge 2 looks like a cylinder, making it easy to attach, for example, to a bicycle frame using a standard holder.

The large battery had a negative impact on the weight of the speaker: it exceeded half a kilogram. Perhaps, this characteristic JBL Charge 2 is the only one that can cause inconvenience to the user.

The body is mostly made of rubberized plastic. One of the distinctive characteristics of JBL Charge 2 is the thoughtful shape of the case, in which the speakers are covered with plastic grilles recessed into the base material. The full-range speakers are located on the manufacturer's logo side, while the second grille is installed only for symmetry in the design.

The grilles are separated at the top by a control panel equipped with backlit keys. The buttons are not touch sensitive, as is customary on modern devices, but pressed. This characteristic of JBL Cherge 2, such as the absence of protruding parts, is a good advantage, especially if the acoustics are used in extreme conditions. You can distinguish the buttons tactilely, blindly, the volume swings are embossed. Next to the tube there is a small hole - a microphone.

Passive radiators are located at the ends of the column. They are not protected by anything, but at the same time they are recessed quite deeply into the body, due to which, as users especially note in their reviews of the JBL Charge 2, there is no impact on them. During operation, the emitters vibrate quite noticeably.

On the right side of the case there are small legs that allow you to install the speaker in a vertical position. In the JBL Charge 2 acoustics, a distinguishing characteristic is a special indicator located under the volume buttons.

Under the grille located on the back of the speaker, three connectors are hidden: for charging third-party devices - a high-ampere USB input, for connecting sound sources - TRS 3.5 mm, and for charging a gadget - microUSB.

Due to the elongated base, the column does not have sufficient stability, which is why it easily tips over. Despite this, in the reviews, users note that this does not threaten the acoustics, since after several swings its speakers remain pointed upward.

Column measurements

Many users in their reviews conducted various tests of the characteristics of JBL Charge 2. For this class of acoustics, the uniformity of the frequency response graph is acceptable in the intervals from 75 Hz and 2 kHz and from 5 kHz to 12 kHz. It is worth noting separately that the graph reaches an acceptable level quite early.

The maximum sound pressure, which is often measured by specialists, is one of important parameters speaker systems. The test is simple: the speaker is placed on a chipboard table so that the main speakers are directed towards the measuring microphone. A measuring microphone is mounted at a distance of a meter at the same height and connected to a spectrum analyzer.

Synchronizes with a smartphone with the maximum volume level set. During the test, average dBA readings are recorded for half a minute of sound in any so-called pink noise player.

Based on the results of the tests, we can say that the JBL Charge 2 portable acoustics are practically not inferior to their analogues in sound quality and volume.

Sound

JBL speakers have excellent sound quality: even the JBL Charge 2 fakes have a more open and loud sound than their original competitors - for example, the Sound Blaster Roar. The lower and upper registers are more detailed, which allows you to convey the nuances of the sound of various musical instruments.

The instructions for JBL Charge 2 note such a function as simultaneous synchronization of up to three third-party devices. The gadget that was connected first remains priority: the rest do not join until playback on it is completed. When you press the corresponding key, priority is transferred to the device that is currently connected to the speaker.

The disadvantage of the JBL speaker as a wireless headset is the reduced sensitivity of the microphone: in order for the interlocutor to hear anything, you need to move close to the speaker. Despite the fact that the maximum volume is low, the timbre of the voice is transmitted without any distortion.

The maximum volume level is enough to sound a room of 20 square meters. At a volume of 50-70%, the JBL speaker copes well with any genres and compositions, delighting listeners with clear high notes, detailed bass and a good midrange. This gadget is ideal for both background sound and for creating a working atmosphere.

JBL Charge 2 is perhaps the first speaker on the acoustics market capable of playing heavy compositions at fairly high volume levels. Loss in detail and depth of low frequencies occurs only at maximum volume. Despite its compact size, the speaker clearly and accurately reproduces many genres of music. Controversial compositions are best played at medium volume levels.

Separately, it is worth mentioning such a feature of Charge 2 as fast connection via Bluetooth - a pair is created in almost a second, while analogues require five to seven seconds to connect. IN JBL instructions Charge 2 shows time battery life- 12 hours of trouble-free music playback. The mentioned time can be reduced several times if the portable acoustics are used as a charger for a tablet or smartphone.

The acoustics from Harman were not just improved by the manufacturer, but completely redesigned, which made it possible to create one of best speakers in its class and at such a price for the JBL Charge 2. The gadget has good bass and plays music quite well for its category. maximum level volume and is equipped with a capacious battery that allows you to charge third-party devices. The average price of JBL Charge 2 is 7 thousand rubles.

Autonomous operation of the column

At an average volume level when connected to a tablet, the JBL speaker can work for 18 hours, after which the battery is completely discharged. A large, high-power battery allows JBL Charge 2 to show good battery life results in comparison with similar devices of the same price category, being slightly inferior in this indicator to some other portable speaker systems.

Connection options

You can synchronize the JBL Charge 2 portable speaker with any devices and gadgets via a Bluetooth connection or using a 3.5 mm cable. Unfortunately, such a cable is not included in the kit; it will have to be purchased separately. Used for connection bluetooth profile 3.0 - high-speed high-quality connection.

Distinctive features of acoustics

As mentioned above, the main feature of JBL Charge 2 is the aforementioned Social Mode, that is, the ability to charge third-party gadgets. Using a standard USB cable, you can connect any device - smartphone, tablet, player - to the portable speaker and charge it while listening to music. This function is very beneficial and useful and will serve well in situations where it is difficult to access the network to fully charge the gadget.

Review results

Portable acoustics of the JBL brand have been impressing users throughout all the years of their existence. good impression, striking with its quality and great sound. Together with its original and unique design, the Charge 2 speaker significantly outperforms its main competitors in the same class and price category. The ability to charge third-party devices can help the user out when traveling or long walks, as has been repeatedly noted in numerous reviews of the JBL Charge 2. The cost of the Charge 2 with such a set of functions and characteristics does not look so high: the speaker can easily compete with expensive products from famous brands. brands, bypassing many of them.

Appearance

JBL Charge 2 has a cylindrical shape, which is familiar to us from the first model. It is worth noting that the new column is slightly longer and wider.

Now it has 2 full-fledged bass speakers, which are visible on the sides of the device.

At the front there are mid- and high-frequency speakers, which are hidden under a metal mesh.

Additional column control buttons appeared on top, which were not present in the previous generation.

All connectors are now located at the rear. These include a micro-USB connector, a 3.5 mm jack and a USB connector.

If we talk about the quality of plastic, then it is at its best! It is immediately clear that the designers and engineers tried to create a truly high-quality device.

Absolutely all plastic parts have a rubberized surface.

The buttons are protected from moisture, which makes it possible to operate the device outdoors or, for example, in the bathroom.

In terms of weight, JBL Charge 2 exceeds the column of the first series. Apparently this is due to the reinforced built-in battery.

Principle of operation

Let's take a look at how this thing works. For this we need a speaker and a sound source. This source can be any device that supports Bluetooth or has a headphone output. The most standard option is a smartphone. The “Bluetooth” button on the speaker must be turned on. The column becomes available to all devices. The smartphone must be connected to the JBL Charhe 2 device.

After successful pairing, all devices are ready to use. Now all sounds will be transmitted to the speaker.

Functional

In addition to playing sound, JBL charger 2 is capable of charging other devices via a USB socket. Hence the name “Charge” - charge. Thanks to a capacious 10,000 mAh battery, the speaker can produce sound and charge the device at the same time.

In technical terms, the difference between the first and second models, in addition to size and appearance, is a whole set of new features. Among the main ones we can highlight the reception phone call directly from the speaker, i.e. Hands-Free. Plus, in addition to volume control, you can now pause music. Also, it became possible to connect to three devices at once.

Autonomy

There are no complaints about autonomy. Thanks again for the powerful battery. JBL Charge 2 works quietly for 8-10 hours at medium volume. The supplied charger is used for charging. Charger at 2.4 A.

Conclusion

After using the speaker for a long time, I had an ambivalent impression. On the one hand, you are holding in your hands a high-quality thing that makes a great sound. But on the other hand, there is one big drawback to this sound. Dear readers, look carefully at the production date of the speaker, it is indicated on the box! The fact is that when playing bass, the sound begins to wheeze a lot. All speakers in 2014 will be defective!

Agree, it will be very disappointing to hear the wheezing of the speakers when buying such an expensive thing. Therefore, it is worth looking carefully at the date. In the new 2015, this problem was solved, so take devices released since 2015!

The device I'm reviewing was released in 2014 and it wheezes. There is a lot of information on the Internet about this problem. And if you encounter this defect, then you should contact service center, where everything will be fixed for free.

In conclusion, I would like to add that despite this controversial drawback, I was delighted with the JBL Charge 2. I have never heard better quality portable sound.

JBL Charge 2 Plus - updated version hit model of 2014 Charge. The advantages of the first version are complemented by protection of the case from moisture and splashes. Also, Charge 2 Plus has noticeably improved bass sound.

The secret of JBL's success

JBL releases Hi-Fi speakers class and studio monitors for over 60 years. And portable acoustics with Bluetooth appeared in its assortment several years ago. The Charge 2 Plus and other models have received good press and customer reviews for their excellent functionality and sound. The speaker plays loudly and at the same time with high quality - for its size and price category. And it especially surprises with the sophistication of sound in the low-frequency register on trance, heavy music, etc.

The Charge 2 Plus has a larger battery than many competitors, with a capacity of 6,000 mAh. The speaker can work up to 12 hours without recharging, that is, 2 hours more than its competitor Denon Envaya Mini. At the same time, two speakers with a diameter of 45 mm produce power up to 15 W.

JBL can also work as Power Bank for gadgets and hands-free system for mobile phones. A special feature of this model is the Multipoint mode for connecting three Bluetooth devices to the speaker simultaneously.

Acoustics for hikes and picnics

"Chip" Charge 2 Plus- protection of the housing from splashes and dirt. This model can work not only in drizzling rain, but also in heavy rain. But it is worth remembering that the acoustics will not withstand more extreme conditions, such as immersion under water.

Charge 2 Plus owners consider the speaker good option for listening to music while traveling and outdoors. Buyers make complaints about the fact that there are no plugs at the connectors, and the kit does not include a carrying case. Interestingly, some of them even place the device on a bicycle - in a holder for a water flask.

JBL Charge 2 Plus- a speaker with bright colors (orange, red, etc.), which is protected from moisture and equipped with powerful battery. Moreover, you can use it not only at picnics, but also in everyday life, for example, next to the computer.

Additional features and functionality portable acoustics JBL Charge 2 Plus:

• Social Mode - ability to connect to 3 devices simultaneously
• Passive radiators enhance low frequencies