Today we’re looking at the JBL Xtreme 3, which, as the name suggests, is the third version of what was once the largest portable speaker from JBL. Today he has to admit defeat to the boombox and the party boxes. But for most of them, the larger loudspeakers are no longer really portable. The JBL Xtream 3 with its well-known carrying strap is much more suitable here.
connections
To stick with the connections and go into a little more detail: In addition to the Bluetooth 5.1 connection, the JBL Xtreme 3 also provides you with a normal USB connection, a 3.5 mm jack AUX connection and a USB-C connection Via which the loudspeaker is also charged. With the appropriate adapter to 3.5mm jack, any audio-compatible device can also be connected to the box, which means that there are hardly any limits to the enjoyment of music. Despite the connections, the speaker is water and dust resistant according to IP-67. According to this standard, the JBL Xtreme 3 can also be operated near water, as it is protected against dust and brief immersion. So you can take the JBL Xtreme 3 with you to the beach or the outdoor pool without hesitation and don’t have to worry if the loudspeaker gets a little moisture.
scope of delivery
The scope of delivery includes the loudspeaker itself, USB-C power supply with 40 watts and a cable permanently installed on the power supply, as well as the carrying strap. Of course, the classic description printed on too much paper should not be missing. The cable itself is made quite nicely, because you can plug in the USB-A port on both sides. Unfortunately, as with the predecessor, there is no power supply included …
Processing and functions
As usual from JBL, the processing of the loudspeaker is at a high level. Large gaps or uncomfortable edges, protruding threads – none of that was found in our test product. The processing convinced us how very much. Unlike the JBL Charge 5, the USB-C port is now back behind a flap, which we welcomed very much. Although this port is waterproof and therefore there is no danger from water. However, it is quite possible that grains of sand could penetrate and make charging impossible. We come to the subject of design, of course that is always a matter of taste. We are definitely thrilled, JBL has dared something, a new design with the same basic structure. There are also the two distinctive bass membranes on the outside, the power button and the rest of the buttons on top of the speaker and the fabric cover. However, the speaker itself is a little curved, the large rubber base has been replaced by stylish rubber strips. And the charging LEDs became a battery indicator tape. The JBL logo on the front has also become much larger and has a two-tone design. Functionally, there is the latest Bluetooth standard and the new connection standard, which works well on its own.
JBL Partyboost instead of JBL Connect +?
With Partyboost, JBL is entering the third generation of its connection technology, which also works flawlessly. However, there is no visible advantage over the predecessor and again no downward compatibility … We used the JBL Flip 5 for the test, as Partyboost is only supported by this and the JBL Xtreme 3. We think that’s a shame.
sound
In terms of sound, the JBL Xtreme 3 is stingy in the new generation of JBL loudspeakers. Compared to its predecessor, it has made a good leap forward. The typical JBL sound has still been retained. So you still have a good mix between highs, mids and lows. With a higher power consumption of the loudspeaker, JBL was able to make the bass even more powerful. Together with the better tweeters, this gives a really nice sound. In terms of health, Jamie has done what she has to do, they have improved a lot and thus kept their distance from the competition, which is getting better and better. We can still recommend the speakers in terms of sound.
Conclusion
The workmanship, the design, the sound of the scope of delivery JBL could completely convince us this year. Ultimately, as always, the question arises for whom is the JBL Xtreme 3 the right one. JBL has long since ceased to be unrivaled by brands such as Sony LG but also by unknown brands such as Soundcore. Are there cheaper alternatives. Some of them are also better value for money. However, none of the speakers we tested came close to the JBL Xtreme 3. We can therefore recommend the product. However, if you want to spend a little less, take a look at the brands listed above. And don’t worry, we are sure to have a review as well.
