JBL Charger2 is a portable wireless speaker. JBL Charger2 - portable wireless speaker Portable speaker jbl charge 2 characteristics
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 has been producing hi-fi speakers 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 elaboration of sound in the low-frequency register on trance, heavy music, etc.
Charge 2 Plus has more powerful battery than many competitors - with a capacity of 6000 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
The “trick” of Charge 2 Plus is that it protects the case 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 is a speaker with bright colors (orange, red, etc.), which is protected from moisture and equipped with a powerful battery. Moreover, you can use it not only at picnics, but also in everyday life, for example, next to the computer.
Acoustics and presented its version of “good sound at a reasonable price” JBL Charge.
A year later, the company's engineers updated the product and released new model JBL Charge 2+ with improved sound quality and new options. The line continues to improve and now another version of the device called JBL Charge 2+ has appeared on store shelves. According to the manufacturer, sound settings have been added and the case has received a waterproof design.
Equipment
The speaker itself is placed in a cardboard package with good print quality, USB cable, network adapter, removable stands and a traditional set of documentation. All accessories are made in the same color. 
The box is made well and has a division of internal space, which will undoubtedly appeal to those who like to store equipment in its original packaging.
Design
Compared to previous version Charge 2+ has undergone only minor external changes: it has lengthened a little and gained weight, but the difference at first glance is practically not felt. The shape of the body, which looks like a shaker or a beer can (the associative series can be continued), remained the same, but a whole range of color schemes was added. The surface is covered with a material that is pleasant to the touch, reminiscent of rubber.
A few words about moisture protection: according to the technical documentation, the device is IP*4, which means protection from drops and splashes, but does not allow jets of water to enter, much less immersion. However, it gives a little confidence, especially if you are in an open space and it suddenly starts to rain. , a competing model from Logitech, has the same level of protection. 
Wideband speakers are located under a protective metal mesh with the company logo. Another nameplate is located on a cylindrical surface. On the left and right there are passive radiators, that is, bass reflexes. Acoustic design elements.
Functionality and supported interfaces
Charge 2+ has three connectors:
Line input 3.5 mm for connection external source audio signal (unfortunately, the corresponding cable is not included in the kit);
mini-USB used to connect the network adapter.
USB, in this case the speaker acts as a charger.
Bluetooth is considered the most important interface, thanks to which previous models have gained high popularity. Its main advantage is the stability of the connection. The algorithm is written in such a way that when radio communication conditions deteriorate, the data transfer rate decreases, the bitrate of the audio stream decreases, but the connection is not interrupted (unless, of course, the signal source is generally higher from the network coverage area). 
One of the device’s operating modes, Social Mode, allows you to connect up to three Bluetooth sources simultaneously. Preference is given to the person who last pressed the Play button.
The stated operating time (about 12 hours) is true, but if the device was used to recharge high-capacity batteries, it can be significantly reduced.
Sound options
The speakers with a total power of 15 watts produce a pretty interesting and honest picture. Frequency characteristics portable speakers certainly live up to their claims. There are practically no obvious dips and peaks, only the upper middle is slightly raised, giving a brighter color compared to a traditional desktop stereo pair.
The low-frequency spectrum is generally not bad, but when listening to recordings with sub-bass, problems still arise: some Massive Attack tracks are generally contraindicated for listening due to overload in this area. But Bill Callahan sounds very nice. The lower midrange of his baritone is striking in its depth. The drums also sound very clear. An attempt to overload the speakers on his Drover track was unsuccessful.
Jay-Z also failed to scare sound system. Special attention deserve drum loops, very energetic and vibrant.
Classical music, and indeed all acoustic instruments, have a slight coloration in the lower middle and on high frequencies, which may not seem entirely correct for lovers of “correct” classics, but listeners without prejudices should like everything.
Stereo panorama has always been the bottleneck of compact acoustics. However, the placement of the JBL speakers greatly improves the situation. The left and right channels are distinguishable even from several meters (with the listener facing the speaker).
Bottom line
The device is 100% worth the money they ask for it. Advantages: high-quality sound, wide functionality, reliable design.
JBL - famous trademark with more than 50 years of history, originates 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.
What else does it offer you? new development, read below.
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 a laptop and improve the quality of sound, watching videos, and will be used instead of a music player while walking, cycling 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 withstand up to 8 hours.
In addition, you can charge yours directly from the speaker - this is a huge plus if you get further away into 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 this is also a price to pay for branded quality and functionality, and even if available large number competitors, this acquisition 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 of 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.
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 receiving a 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 hold 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.
Having retained only the outwardly similar outline and the ability to recharge any smartphones and tablets, the second version of the JBL Charge 2 portable speaker system began to sound more powerful and bassy. How else does this sequel differ from the popular original, Vesti.Hitek found out
The products of JBL, part of Harman International Industries - speaker systems and related electronics - probably do not need any special introduction. Among the audio solutions from JBL, a natural interest at the IFA 2014 exhibition in Berlin was caused by the update of the JBL Charge portable system, which has already gained many fans, including in Russia. Let us remind you that mobile music lovers revere these wireless speakers for good quality sound (in its class, of course), high level volume, long time battery life, as well as the ability to recharge other gadgets from its large battery. In all these respects, JBL Charge 2 also does not disappoint. But what's new about it?
Specifications
- Speaker size: 2x45 mm
- output power: 2x7.5 W
- Signal-to-noise ratio: no less than 80 dB
- frequency range: 75 Hz to 20 kHz
- Interface: Bluetooth 3.0
- Support Bluetooth profiles: A2DP V1.3, AVRCP V1.5, HFP V1.6, HSP V1.2
- Power supply: 5V/2.1A (for charging gadgets)
- Battery: lithium-ion, 6,000 mAh (3.7 V; 22.2 Wh)
- Battery charging time: 4 hours at 1.8 A
- Music playback time: up to 12 hours (depending on volume level and audio content)
- Overall dimensions: 79x185.2 mm
- Weight: 540 g
- Body color: black, white, red, blue and lilac
Contents of delivery
The JBL Charge 2 portable speaker system is supplied with: a 5 V/2.3 A USB power adapter with a replaceable plug, a USB-microUSB cable for charging the battery, a quick user guide and recommendations for safe use. Unlike the JBL Charge, a convenient carrying case is no longer included here, and, unfortunately, the cable for the 3.5 mm audio output (AUX) jack did not appear.
Appearance
Although the new product has retained its recognizable outlines, a number of significant changes have occurred in its design.
The JBL Charge 2 speaker system still resembles a cylinder, most of the surface of which is occupied by two metal mesh grilles for the built-in speakers, one of which has the JBL logo on it. At each end of this “musical” cylinder there is now a bass reflex with a passive radiator, which is part of a low-frequency loudspeaker without a coil and a magnetic system. When the membrane of a passive radiator vibrates almost in phase with the diffuser of the main speaker, effective reproduction of low frequencies is ensured. It is believed that one of the advantages of a passive radiator over a conventional bass reflex is the absence of air flow noise in the resonator pipe.
Silver discs with the JBL logo are fixed on movable membranes - diffusers.
Since it is no longer recommended to place the device on its end, a special stand has been provided on its cylindrical body, made of soft-touch plastic, pleasant to the touch. Thanks to the rubberized coating, it does not slip on almost any surface.
And in a small recess next to this stand there are microUSB connectors (for charging the built-in battery) and USB (for charging gadget batteries), as well as a 3.5 mm audio output connector.
In the upper part of the case (relative to the stand) on an elongated plate there are icons of backlit control buttons lined up in a row, including: for turning on the power, pairing with Bluetooth, adjusting the volume (separately “+” and “-”), going to the so-called “ social" Bluetooth mode, as well as for answering a voice call. The hole for the built-in microphone is also located here, according to the manufacturer, which is a speakerphone with echo and noise absorption technology. For five LED indicators of the charge level of the built-in battery, a place has been allocated just below the volume rocker. Now this indicator has become more informative than the one (of three LEDs) used in the JBL Charge.
Because of its two-tone coloring (white in combination with grey, green or blue), the first generation of this acoustic system looked very frivolous, if not frivolous.
But the plain (black, white, red, blue or lilac) cases of JBL Charge 2 have become more “technological” and stylish look. True, the complication of the filling led to an increase in the overall dimensions of the device (diameter - from 74 mm to 79 mm, length - from 175 mm to 185.2 mm) and its weight (from 470 g to 540 g).
Filling and functionality
The effective diameter of the two speakers has changed upward - from 38 mm to 45 mm. The power of the built-in amplifiers has also increased - from 5 W to 7.5 W. Thus, the rated electrical power of the JBL Charge 2 speaker system is now 15 W. Thanks to the use of phase inverters with passive radiators, the operating frequency range has increased due to low-frequency components and has shifted from 150 Hz to 75 Hz. At the same time, the upper limit of the spectrum remained unchanged (20 kHz). The signal-to-noise ratio has not improved either (at least 80 dB). However, there are, of course, acoustic differences between the devices of the two generations. It is especially noticeable that the bass of the JBL Charge 2 sounds richer and more powerful.
The capacity of the lithium-ion battery of the JBL Charge 2 remains the same and is 6,000 mAh. According to the manufacturer, this is quite enough for continuous audio playback for 12 hours. Of course, a lot here depends on the volume level and the type of content (after all, most energy is concentrated in the low frequencies). To fill such a capacious battery, you will have to spend about 4 hours with a current of at least 1.8 A. The possibilities for recharging gadgets (for example, smartphones and tablets) from the battery built into the speaker system have also expanded. In particular, when rated voltage 5 V charging current via a USB port can reach 2.1 A (versus 1 A in JBL Charge), this can significantly speed up the charging process. By the way, the charging process itself does not interfere with listening to music.
In addition to the 3.5 mm audio jack (the cable must be purchased separately), the main interface for connecting smartphones, tablets and other gadgets with audio content to JBL Charge 2 is Bluetooth 3.0. To start pairing, you need to click on the button with the icon of this interface, while the flashing light will indicate that the device has entered pairing mode. Selecting "JBL Charge 2" from the list of available devices on the screen of the connected mobile device marks the completion phase of this process.
One of the significant differences wireless acoustics The second generation JBL Charge is to support the so-called “social” Bluetooth mode, to switch to which you must select the appropriate button (the “three men” icon). In this case, by wireless connection You can connect up to three to the speaker system at once various devices(smartphones, tablets, players or computers), alternately playing music tracks and other audio files from them. At the same time, it is impossible to set any preferences for a specific device, and premature start new composition from the next device will simply interrupt and replace the previously launched one.
In addition to control and streaming profiles (A2DR, AVRCR), the Bluetooth interface also supports calling and receiving profiles (HSP, HFP). Therefore, the presence of a call button and a built-in microphone in the JBL Charge 2 easily turns this speaker system into a speakerphone device, thereby replacing wireless headset. That is, when it arrives incoming call, you just need to press the button with the handset icon and answer the incoming call. Note that the hands-free option is missing in the first generation of devices (JBL Charge).
Purchase, conclusions
The starting price of JBL Charge 2 is 6,990 rubles. At the same time, for a similar first-generation speaker system in large retail chains they are now asking 3,790 rubles. But the new product is probably worth the money - after all, it retains all the advantages of JBL Charge, including the ability to recharge gadgets from the built-in battery. In addition, the new acoustic system, having a more attractive exterior, has improved sound quality. We also note that the built-in microphone will help when receiving incoming phone calls, and the “social” mode of the Bluetooth interface allows you to combine the efforts of several amateur DJs during a party.
It’s a pity, of course, that the kit does not include a carrying case for the new speaker system, and the audio cable was never included in it. By the way, for faster and more convenient pairing via Bluetooth, an NFC interface would be useful in the device. It would also be useful to protect the case from moisture and dust for actively traveling music lovers. Nevertheless, JBL Charge 2 leaves a very pleasant impression - everything is quite functional, simple and even stylish. Therefore, this speaker system can be recommended, for example, for outdoor trips or organizing small home parties.