In today’s rapidly evolving technology landscape, consumers have come to expect more from their devices, even when it comes to something as simple as a wireless speaker. The new Ultimate Ears Epicboom speaker, priced at $349.99, may not offer all the bells and whistles that some competitors do, but it still has several appealing features that make it worth considering.
One of the standout features of the Epicboom is its ruggedized and waterproof build. This makes it the perfect companion for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, or beach trips. You won’t have to worry about accidental drops or getting caught in the rain with this speaker by your side. Additionally, the speaker boasts a powerful 360-degree sound that fills the entire room, creating an immersive listening experience. Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying some music on your own, the Epicboom delivers clear and powerful audio.
Battery life is another area where the Epicboom excels. With up to 17 hours of playtime on a single charge, you can enjoy your favorite tunes all day without worrying about running out of power. And with the inclusion of a USB-C port, the speaker is able to charge quickly and conveniently. This is actually the first UE speaker to feature a USB-C port, which is a welcomed addition in today’s world of fast charging and universal connectivity.
In terms of design, the Epicboom is very similar to a Sonos Move 2 in terms of size and shape. However, it is noticeably lighter, making it easier to transport and carry around. The speaker is coated in the same fabric mesh that is found on other UE products, giving it a sleek and modern look. The sturdy rubber base provides some drop protection, ensuring the speaker can withstand accidental falls or bumps. There is also a convenient carrying strap on the back, held in place by a magnet to prevent it from flopping around.
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While the Epicboom may not offer all the fancy features that some higher-end speakers do, it still holds its own in terms of audio quality. In side-by-side comparisons with the more expensive Sonos Move 2, there were instances where the Epicboom’s output was preferred. However, overall, the Sonos speaker was found to be more detailed, distinct, and better balanced. The Epicboom tended to veer into boomy and ill-defined territory, particularly when listening to certain tracks.
UE’s Epicboom does include some additional features that enhance the overall experience. There is an “outdoor mode” button that increases the speaker’s loudness for use in wide-open spaces. Additionally, the speaker features a “magic button” that allows you to play a preset playlist from your chosen music service. The USB-C port on the back is covered by a protective flap, making it waterproof and ensuring no water can get through if the speaker is submerged in a pool. While the speaker does not include Wi-Fi connectivity or support for higher-fidelity music streaming, it does support quick tap-to-pair via NFC for Android phone owners.
One area where the Epicboom falls short is in its price point. At $349.99, it may be too expensive for what it offers. There are several features that are notably missing, such as AirPlay 2, Amazon Alexa, Chromecast, and Spotify Connect. For the price, consumers may expect more comprehensive functionality and connectivity options. Additionally, the fabric mesh on the white speaker can become dirty over time, requiring regular cleaning to maintain its aesthetic appeal.
In conclusion, the Ultimate Ears Epicboom is a solid wireless speaker that delivers on durability, sound quality, and battery life. It may not have all the extra features that some competitors offer, but it still holds its own in terms of performance. For those looking for a reliable and portable speaker for outdoor activities, the Epicboom is a worthy option. However, the price tag may deter some consumers who expect more comprehensive functionality for the premium price. Ultimately, the value of the Epicboom will depend on individual preferences and priorities.
