JBL is a brand that needs no introduction, because when it comes to speakers of any kind, like this new JBL Charge 4, fame usually precedes the product.
But it is also true that in a market where Bluetooth speakers are booming, standing out is not a trivial matter: JBL Charge 4 focuses on the number of functions available, which for travelers are a godsend, all concentrated in one single point.
JBL Charge 4, the review
Differently light
JBL Charge 4 is presented in a box slightly larger than the speaker itself, where inside we find, in an extremely synthetic way, the speaker and the USB-C charging cable with symmetrical USB-A connector, which is no small feat for those who work in the dark.
In addition to this, the canonical and useless booklet explaining the operation while missing, a pity, a power supply that makes it independent in the office.
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The weight is not insignificant and touches one kilogram (965g) but if you have a generous hand it holds well thanks to the texture of the surface: the construction is in plastic with rubberized edges and a part, where the connectors stop, closed by a flap that protects them in case of water
The option is far from unusual as JBL Charge 4 is IPX7 certified (meaning it can end in water up to one meter, it is not suitable for diving but if it falls in the pool or gets wet it is not a problem, but be careful because it does not float).
A battery with the speaker around
The integrated battery is lithium-ion 27 Wh and allows not only to power the speaker, also to correctly charge a smartphone if necessary, in our case an iPhone 8, an option more than recommended for those who go to the beach all day with a battery that never seems to be enough.
The battery lasted a lot for us: JBL says it can play music for 20 hours (with a full 4-hour charge), a figure that we can validate, given that we have well exceeded 16 continuous, still having residual charge (with a charge indicator just below the logo).
Also good holding when turned off, since it goes through the week in complete tranquility.
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Wireless or wired
The connection to the various devices is guaranteed by the Bluetooth 4.2 chip, therefore with a very wide range of products, but if desired, it can also be used analogically, thanks to the Jack connector located on the back, next to the USB charging connector.
Interesting is the JBL Conenct + function, which we have not been able to try, which allows you to associate multiple JBL Charge 4 in sequence for multi-channel audio.
On the other hand, the microphone is missing, so it cannot be used to answer the phone (but it recognizes calls and blocks music).
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JBL is music
So here we are at the focal point of the review: how does the JBL Charge 4 sound? Because if from a smart point of view we have found that it is very good, practical and think the right (for what it proposes), sound is still the first reason to buy.
Nominally, JBL Charge 4 features a 50 x 90mm translator with 30W RMS rated power, 60Hz – 20kHz frequency response and> 80dB signal-to-noise ratio.
In the Italian language it means a very full-bodied and low sound present in practically all the songs, with a good definition even of the most medium frequencies, a fact certainly helped by the curious side outputs that “vibrate” in a very modest way.
In some songs the higher frequencies are slightly less protagonist than the others, but we are considering the cut of the speaker in the market, which is certainly not designed for the sought-after vocal songs and instead gives the best of itself with pop, rock and with live.
The smartphone control obviously depends on the App used, while the upper controls are practical (volume and playback control) even if perhaps a little too rigid.
Considerations
The dimensions are generous (22 x 9.5 x 9.3 cm), but the JBL Charge 4 is a great product both from a smart and a musical point of view, although in this case we have to keep in mind what the range is to which it is addressed.
Something here and there could be improved, such as the presence of a hook, which would increase portability and safety in places at risk (such as on a boat for example).
For the rest, a young and successful product proposed in ten colors, which is not afraid of water and is the son of a brand that is synonymous with music.
Pro:
• Convenient and practical, excellent battery • Designed for Pop and Rock music • Completely waterproof
Cons:
• A hook is missing • No microphone (and no phone calls)
Price:
• € 165.00 Euro (with small variations based on color)
JBL Charge 4 is distributed in Italy by Attiva.it and is available in major Italian stores, including Apple Premium Resellers, or online at Amazon.it in ten colors of your choice.
