When it comes to portable speakers, the JBL Go 2 stands out as a top contender. Known for its impressive sound quality, compact design, and water-resistant features, the JBL Go 2 has become a favorite for music lovers on the go. In this review, we’ll dive deep into what makes this portable speaker a must-have, from its design and durability to its audio performance and battery life.
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Design and Build Quality
Compact and Sleek Design
The JBL Go 2 is designed for portability, fitting comfortably in the palm of your hand. It’s a small, square-shaped speaker, weighing just 184 grams and measuring 71.2 x 86.0 x 31.6 mm. Despite its compact size, the speaker doesn’t compromise on style. The Go 2 is available in a variety of vibrant colors, making it easy to find one that suits your personal taste.
Durability and Water-Resistance
One of the standout features of the JBL Go 2 is its IPX7 water-resistance rating. This means the speaker can be submerged in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes without suffering any damage. Whether you’re by the pool, at the beach, or caught in a sudden downpour, the Go 2 is built to withstand the elements. The rubberized coating adds to its durability, protecting it from accidental drops and bumps.
Audio Performance
Impressive Sound Quality for its Size
Despite its small size, the JBL Go 2 delivers surprisingly good sound quality. It features a single 40mm driver that produces clear and balanced audio across various genres. The bass response is decent for a speaker of this size, though it might not satisfy those looking for deep, thumping lows. The mids and highs are well-represented, providing a pleasant listening experience for most users.
Volume and Distortion
The Go 2 can get impressively loud for its size, making it suitable for small gatherings or outdoor activities. However, at maximum volume, some distortion may be noticeable, particularly in bass-heavy tracks. This is a common issue with compact speakers, but for everyday use, the JBL Go 2 performs admirably.
Battery Life and Connectivity
Battery Performance
The JBL Go 2 is equipped with a 730mAh rechargeable battery, offering up to 5 hours of continuous playback on a single charge. While this might not be the longest battery life in the portable speaker market, it’s sufficient for a day at the beach or a few hours of music during a picnic. The speaker charges via a micro-USB port, with a full charge taking about 2.5 hours.
Connectivity Options
The JBL Go 2 supports Bluetooth 4.1, allowing for a reliable wireless connection up to 10 meters away. Pairing the speaker with your smartphone, tablet, or other Bluetooth-enabled devices is straightforward and quick. Additionally, the Go 2 features a 3.5mm audio jack, providing an option for wired connections when Bluetooth isn’t available or when you want to conserve battery life.
User Experience
Ease of Use
The JBL Go 2 is designed with simplicity in mind. The top of the speaker houses easy-to-use buttons for power, Bluetooth pairing, volume control, and play/pause functions. The speaker also includes a built-in noise-cancelling speakerphone, allowing you to take calls directly from the speaker without having to disconnect your phone.
Portability
With its compact size and lightweight design, the JBL Go 2 is incredibly portable. Whether you’re traveling, commuting, or just heading out for a walk, it’s easy to toss the speaker into a bag or even a pocket. Its rugged build and water-resistant features further enhance its suitability for on-the-go use.
Customer Reviews
| Rating | Percentage of Users |
|---|---|
| ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 60% |
| ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 25% |
| ⭐⭐⭐ | 10% |
| ⭐⭐ | 3% |
| ⭐ | 2% |
Overall Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars
Customer feedback for the JBL Go 2 has been overwhelmingly positive, with many users praising its sound quality and durability. Most customers are impressed with the speaker’s performance, particularly considering its affordable price point. The water-resistant design is a favorite feature among users who often take the speaker outdoors.
Some users have noted that the battery life could be longer, especially for extended use. A few also mentioned minor distortion at maximum volume, but these issues are generally considered minor given the speaker’s overall performance and value.
Example Customer Review
“I bought the JBL Go 2 for a beach vacation, and it exceeded my expectations. The sound quality is great for such a small speaker, and it’s perfect for travel. I love that it’s water-resistant, so I didn’t have to worry about it getting wet. The battery life is decent, but I wish it lasted a bit longer. Overall, a fantastic little speaker that’s well worth the price.” – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Conclusion
The JBL Go 2 is a fantastic option for anyone in need of a portable, durable, and stylish Bluetooth speaker. Its compact size makes it incredibly easy to carry around, and its IPX7 water-resistance ensures it can handle the occasional splash or even a dunk in water. While the battery life might not be the longest, and some distortion may occur at high volumes, these are minor drawbacks when considering the overall performance and value of the speaker.
For those who value portability, durability, and decent sound quality in a small package, the JBL Go 2 is an excellent choice. Whether you’re heading to the beach, relaxing by the pool, or just need a compact speaker for your daily commute, the JBL Go 2 won’t disappoint.
