"Preparing for an outdoor soiree? Our audio specialist evaluated Bose's most potent portable sound system and awarded it almost top marks"
The Bose SoundLink Max, the latest addition to Bose's line of portable Bluetooth speakers, offers an exciting, punchy sound performance across various music genres. This speaker stands out for its robust sound and stylish design, but it comes with a higher price tag and a few compromises compared to its competitors.
Measuring 120 x 265 x 105mm and weighing 2.13kg, the SoundLink Max is larger and more expensive than the SoundLink Plus and the SoundLink Flex. It comes in three colours: Black, Blue Dusk, and Citrus Yellow, with a central Bose branding on the front and controls within a trough at the top of the speaker. One notable feature of the SoundLink Max is its rugged design, with a handle featuring rope detailing, making it more durable than some other Bluetooth speakers.
The SoundLink Max delivers a powerful sound, making it suitable for environments where loud and clear audio is essential. However, it does not have Wi-Fi connectivity, voice control from assistants like Alexa, or a built-in microphone for taking calls. It connects via Bluetooth 5.3 and charges via the USB-C port on the rear of the speaker, taking around five hours to charge it from flat to full.
In terms of battery life, the SoundLink Max offers up to 20 hours, which is moderate compared to competitors. While this is more than the Bose SoundLink Flex and the Sonos Roam 2, it falls short compared to the JBL Charge 6 and the Sonos Move 2.
The SoundLink Max stands out for its sound quality, offering big and heavy sound with good stereo presentation. It is suited for environments where powerful sound is needed. However, it lacks some features found in competitors, such as device charging via USB and smart features like voice control and Wi-Fi connectivity.
Comparing the SoundLink Max to other portable Bluetooth speakers like the Sonos Roam 2, JBL Charge 6, and the Bose SoundLink Flex, the SoundLink Max excels in sound quality but falls short in features and battery life. The Sonos Roam 2 is great for its sound quality and adaptability, while the Bose SoundLink Flex offers durability and detail-oriented sound. The JBL Charge 6, on the other hand, boasts an impressive battery life and features AI Sound Boost and a waterproof IP68 rating.
The Bose SoundLink Max is currently priced at £399.95, making it the most expensive of the portable speakers discussed. The Bose SoundLink Plus, priced at £249.95, is a cheaper alternative to the SoundLink Max. The SoundLink Max is easy to set up and connect to the Bose app, which allows EQ adjustments and programming the physical shortcut button on the top of the speaker.
In conclusion, the Bose SoundLink Max is a powerful portable speaker that delivers an impressive sound experience, making it a great choice for those seeking loud and clear audio. However, its higher price tag and limited features compared to competitors should be taken into consideration.
The Bose SoundLink Max, with its rugged design and vibrant color options like Black, Blue Dusk, and Citrus Yellow, can seamlessly blend into various lifestyle, fashion-and-beauty, home-and-garden settings. This speaker, promoting a balanced mix of aesthetics and functionality, can become a stylish addition to your artistic decor while providing punchy sound performance.
While the Bose SoundLink Max excels in sound quality, investors in art who seek more than just audio may be enticed by competitors offering additional features such as voice control, Wi-Fi connectivity, and longer battery life. In the realm of portable Bluetooth speakers, the Sonos Roam 2, JBL Charge 6, and the Bose SoundLink Flex offer their unique blend of sound, design, and smart features, catering to diverse tastes and preferences in the world of art and lifestyle.
