This small Bluetooth speaker produces booming sound, and it’s nearly 40% off right now

What is the deal?

Forward of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, the JBL Clip 5 has been discounted by about $30, going from $80 to $50 on Amazon. This worth drop impacts all of the completely different colorways, from the easy Black to the extra elaborate Squad inexperienced.

ZDNET’s key takeaways

• The JBL Clip 5 is offered for $79 on Amazon.
• This small speaker packs a critical punch, and might simply last as long as 12 hours on a full cost.
• Its audio is usually a bit compressed, and the lows aren’t very deep.

I’ve examined loads of Bluetooth audio system over time. For essentially the most half, I discover their midrange sound to be missing, but it surely’s primarily due to the character of Bluetooth.

Certain, yow will discover audio system that produce well-defined, dynamic sound with a good sound stage, clear lows, clear mids, and crisp highs. However the majority of Bluetooth audio system stay within the center floor, the place audio high quality usually takes a again seat to options and decibels.

Additionally: One of the most immersive speakers I’ve tested is not made by Sonos or JBL (and it’s on sale)

So far as dB is worried, Bluetooth audio system are inclined to generate a degree of sound that instantly correlates to their measurement. In any case, small drivers cannot often ship massive sound. Except, in fact, we’re speaking in regards to the JBL Clip 5. This Bluetooth speaker that’s no larger than your palm can pump out some critical decibels — and with out a lot distortion.

JBL Clip 5 tech specs

• Output energy – 7 W
• Dynamic frequency vary – 95 Hz – 20 kHz
• Battery life – 12 hours enjoying time plus 3 hour with Playtime Enhance
• Dimensions – 3.4 x 5.3 x 1.8
• Weight – 0.628 lbs
• Waterproof – IP67
• Multi-speaker reference to Auracast
• Bluetooth 5.1
• Colours – Purple, Black, Black/Orange, Blue, Pink, Purple, Sand, Squad, White
• Value – Amazon – $79

I actually recognize the JBL sound. I’ve examined fairly a couple of of their merchandise lately, together with the JBL Bar 1000 soundbar, which affords a beautiful dwelling theater expertise and an unmatched readability of sound. 

I additionally perceive what to anticipate from JBL’s audio system. The signature sound curve punches up the bass, barely dips on the decrease finish of the highs, after which gently rises to the excessive finish of the frequency. It is a clear, lively sound that may precisely reproduce audio in a approach that’s usually pleasing, however not essentially ideally suited for each style. 

The Clip 5 defaults to that JBL signature sound and, in a small type issue, actually compresses the soundstage. What does that imply? There’s much less separation between devices and/or voices. To the discerning ear, that may sound a bit compressed or “muddy.” To the typical ear, it is hardly noticeable. 

Additionally: One of the most immersive portable speakers I’ve tested is not made by Sony or Bose

There’s additionally the JBL Moveable app (Android/iOS), the place you’ll be able to choose from three completely different EQ settings (sadly, there is no Customized possibility), improve the firmware, group a number of audio system collectively, and allow PlaytimeBoost.

To check out what this little speaker can do, I linked the Clip 5 to my Pixel 8 Professional, opened Spotify and pressed play on “Analog Child” by Rush (my go-to check track). To me, the sound was, certainly, compressed however nonetheless pretty thrilling. I might hear Geddy’s bass line clear sufficient and Neil Peart’s drums had been as good as ever. There wasn’t practically as a lot punch as I like on the low finish, however this can be a small speaker, so I did not count on to really feel the kick drum punch me within the chest. 

Given how difficult Rush could be for audio system of this nature, I moved on to Orbital’s “Halcyon And On” and located it surprisingly vigorous. Sure, the midrange is a bit a lot for my style, however crank that child up and you will find your self dancing, whether or not somebody is watching or not.

Additionally: One of the most comfortable earbuds I’ve tested sold me on the open-ear style

The opening of “The Highway House” (a stunning choral piece) by Stephen Paulus was a bit harsh at louder ranges and when the refrain actually got here collectively it did distort a bit.

Finally, nonetheless, the massive draw of this speaker is how loud it could actually get. Given the Clip 5’s measurement, you’d assume it’s able to possibly half the amount it could actually produce, however this child can crank. And with the built-in carabiner clip, you’ll be able to connect this to absolutely anything and carry your sounds with you, regardless of the place you go. Strolling, mountaineering, a day on the seashore, in your bike; wherever your journey takes you, the Clip 5 can grasp.

ZDNET’s shopping for recommendation

The JBL Clip 5 comes right down to this: In the event you want massive sound from a small machine whereas on the go (and earbuds or headphones will not do the job), this little speaker is every thing you want. On the speaker, you will discover a play button and quantity buttons to regulate your music and never rather more. The carabiner clip is powerful sufficient that you simply will not have to fret about it breaking. 

This little speaker is rugged, loud, and can maintain you having fun with no matter you take heed to for hours.