The acclaimed JBL speaker reaches unprecedented low pricing, yet a stipulation applies.
The JBL Charge 6, the latest addition to JBL's line of portable Bluetooth speakers, brings significant improvements and new features that make it a more advanced and versatile option for music enthusiasts.
One of the key enhancements of the Charge 6 is its durability and protection. The speaker now boasts an IP68 rating, making it both dustproof and waterproof, capable of being submerged in up to 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes. This is a marked improvement over its predecessor, the Charge 5, which has an IP67 rating, offering more resistance to dust but less waterproofness. Additionally, the Charge 6 features a detachable handle for easier carrying and a more stable base for improved placement and portability.
In terms of audio quality, the Charge 6 introduces AI Sound Boost technology, which analyses music in real-time to deliver optimised sound, resulting in less distortion, richer bass, and clearer vocals. The speaker also supports Hi-Res Audio, a feature not present in the Charge 5, and offers a slight increase in power for more punch and clearer highs.
The Charge 6 also boasts improved wireless connectivity, with Bluetooth 5.4 offering more stable and reliable connections compared to the Charge 5’s Bluetooth 5.1. The speaker also features Auracast technology, replacing Party Boost, enabling a wider soundstage and the ability to connect multiple Charge 6 or other Auracast-compatible JBL speakers. However, it's worth noting that this new technology lacks backward compatibility with older JBL models that use Party Boost.
The Charge 6 offers an extended playtime of up to 28 hours with the Playtime Boost feature, though audio quality may diminish when enabled. The speaker also continues to allow charging of external devices via USB port.
Lastly, the Charge 6 comes with the JBL Portable App, providing access to a seven-band EQ for extensive sound customization, a feature available on newer JBL models including the Charge 6.
Compared to the Charge 5, the Charge 6 is a clear step up in durability, audio quality, connectivity, and flexibility, though it comes at a higher price point and loses backward compatibility for multi-speaker setups with older JBL products.
Meanwhile, for those on a tighter budget, the JBL Charge 5 remains a solid choice. Despite being a few generations old, the Charge 5 continues to impress with its sound quality, offering delicacy and nuance, as well as oomph and bass clout. The speaker is suitable for outdoor use due to its IP67 rating, making it resistant to rugged conditions, water, and dust.
In related news, Sevenoaks is offering discounts on Audiolab, Bowers & Wilkins, and NAD products. The JBL Charge 5 is currently available at Amazon for £90, a significant discount from its original price, and the JBL Flip 6 is also available at a discounted price of £79 at Amazon (save £50).
For more detailed information about the JBL Charge 5, you can read our JBL Charge 5 review on our website.
- The JBL Charge 6 showcases its durability and protection, with an IP68 rating, making it capable of being submerged in water.
- The Charge 6 introduces AI Sound Boost technology for optimized sound, supporting Hi-Res Audio with a slight increase in power for better audio quality.
- Auracast technology in the Charge 6 enables a wider soundstage and the ability to connect multiple speakers, though it lacks backward compatibility with older JBL models.
- The Charge 6 offers extended playtime of up to 28 hours and continues to allow charging of external devices via USB port.
- Meanwhile, for those on a tighter budget, the JBL Charge 5 remains a solid choice, offering impressive sound quality and suitable for outdoor use due to its IP67 rating.