JBL Flip 6 Review: Best Waterproof Speaker for Outdoor

The JBL brand has released the sixth version of the HIT portable waterproof speaker. The device received two speakers with a total power of 30 W, protection against water and dust, a powerful battery, and an interesting design. The JBL Flip6 outdoor speaker is very similar to its predecessor, the Flip 5 (REVIEW), and delivers the same great sound – few wireless outdoor speakers in this segment can boast of such powerful bass. Let’s take a look at the JBL Flip 6 review and know what the device is capable of?

JBL Flip 6 Review: Best Waterproof Speaker for Outdoor

Design

Externally, the Flip 6 looks similar to the previous model in the line. There are passive sound emitters on either side, the JBL logo is located on the front, and the speaker grille covers the rest of the case. There is a strap at the back for easy carrying of the device. The outdoor wireless speakers are available in black, gray, blue, green, pink, teal, white, and red colors, dimensions are 17.8 × 6.8 × 7.2 cm and weigh 550 grams. Our JBL Flip 6 review units are in blue and red color.

You get the same cylindrical design and, for the most part, the same dimensions as its predecessor, with a slight reduction in height. IP67 water resistance means the portable waterproof speaker isn’t afraid of water and dust, the JBL Flip 5 was IPX7. Now it can not only submerge in water but also withstand submersion in 1-meter deep water for up to 30 minutes.

JBL Flip 6 Review: Best Waterproof Speaker for Outdoor

Most of the rest of the exterior updates on the Flip 6 are aesthetic changes, such as a big JBL logo on the front and more textured body fabric. The rubber band at the bottom that keeps the speaker from rolling has changed a bit and got tilt as well. The best outdoor speakers now direct the sound upwards to create a more voluminous sound profile.

JBL Flip 6 specifications

  • Speakers: Woofer 45×80 mm, tweeter 16 mm
  • Output power: 20W RMS for the woofer, 10W RMS for the tweeter
  • Frequency response: 63 Hz – 20 kHz
  • Signal to noise: >80dB
  • Bluetooth version: 5.1
  • Audio codecs: AAC and SBC
  • Bluetooth profiles: A2DP 1.3, AVRCP 1.6
  • Bluetooth frequency range: 2400 MHz – 2483.5 MHz
  • Transmitter power: ≤10dBm(EIRP)
  • Modulation: GFSK, π/4 DQPSK, 8DPSK
  • SRD frequency band 2.4 GHz: 2407 MHz – 2475 MHz
  • SRD transmitter power: <10 dBm (EIRP)
  • Max. working temperature: 45°C
  • Protection: Water and dust resistant IP67 (30 minutes to 1 meter)
  • Battery life: Up to 12 hours (varies by volume and content)
  • Battery: Li-ion polymer 17.28 Wh (3.6 V/4800 mAh)
  • Charging time: 2.5 hours (5V/3A), USB-C
  • Dimensions (W x H x D): 178×68×72 mm
  • Weight: 0.55 kg

Control

JBL hasn’t changed the layout of the controls, using the same raised buttons, which are non-illuminating, easy to feel, and precise to act. On the top of the speaker are the volume buttons and multi-function control keys. They are also responsible for playback and transition to the next track (you cannot switch from column level to the previous melody). There’s a party boost key on the left for connecting the JBL Flip6 to other compatible JBL speakers.

JBL Flip 6 Review: Best Waterproof Speaker for Outdoor

On the back of the case is a button for turning on and connecting via Bluetooth and the latter, once the connection is established, is highlighted. Nearby, you will find a USB-C connector for charging via the included USB-C to USB-A cable.

Connectivity

JBL Portable (formerly called JBL Connect) for Android and iOS is designed for all outdoor wireless speakers from the company. The equalizer, user manual, software update, and some settings are available in the application. Connecting the Flip 6 via Bluetooth is super easy, with it automatically entering pairing mode when you first turn it on. To put the speaker back in pairing mode, press and hold the Bluetooth button until it flashes.

JBL Flip 6 Review: Best Waterproof Speaker for Outdoor

The JBL Flip speaker connects to one source at a time, and since JBL hasn’t equipped it with a microphone, the Flip 6 doesn’t have a speakerphone feature. Party Boost is back, though not without its limitations. You can also use Party Mode to wirelessly connect with other compatible JBL speakers to play the same tunes at the same time. But, we only managed to pair a stereo with another Flip 6, the Mode does not work with the previous Flip 5.

Sound

It’s amazing how the developers managed to fit this loudspeaker system into such a compact package! The rated power of the speaker is 30 W – one and a half times more than the previous model. And both the wireless outdoor speakers are comparable in size. In addition, the JBL Flip 6 works in conjunction with full-range and high-frequency speakers, while the Flip 5 had only one driver.

All improvements have benefited the sound. The waterproof speaker is very loud, with more than enough power for a large room or outdoor gatherings. The maximum volume of 30-50% in the apartment is sufficient, if this limit is exceeded, it will be difficult to talk near the speaker system. Audio extends 360 degrees, which gives the music an extra volume. Like other representatives of the brand, it has a powerful bass. However, the device is not only suitable for listening to hip-hop and rap – the brand has done a great job of bringing out the sound across all spectrums. The system maintains a fine balance between low and high frequencies. Dynamic basses do not overlap vocals, and instrumental parts affect a wide range of frequencies.

Interestingly, Mid and High now have a huge impact on the sound signature than on the Flip 5. The new Flip feels loud, which is normal for a design like this. We were also impressed by the resonance at the highest volume levels, the distortion, cracking of the high or low frequencies are almost absent here. The speaker’s sound remains stable and gets more and more likable over time.

The sound is surprisingly clear and of high quality for a portable device. At maximum volume, there is no unpleasant distortion or wheezing. If you do not take into account connoisseurs of high-end audio, then the JBL Flip 6 can be used as the main speaker system for the home.

Battery life

JBL claims the Flip 6 can last up to 12 hours on a single charge, though we never hit that mark in our JBL Flip 6 review testing.

A lot depends on how loud you listen to music, at 70% volume we got 8 to 10 hours of battery life, which isn’t bad. This time is certainly enough for swimming in the pool or beach with a column.

Connect it to a portable power source with a USB-C cable, and you can continue playing music. It takes 2.5 hours for the battery to be fully charged.

Final line

The JBL Flip 6 is a good choice not only for listening to music in the background but also for small parties. The speaker is pleased with loud and high-quality sound, good battery life, and lightweight. The portable format is great for summer walks and picnics. A bonus is a high level of protection against water and dust, which will help the device survive heavy rains.

Price and availability

The JBL Flip 6 waterproof outdoor speaker costs $129.99, and it can be purchased via Amazon.com, Bestbuy.com, and Amazon.co.uk websites. The compact outdoor wireless speakers deliver great sound with impressive bass. It is a great device for listening to music on the street or at a party with friends. What do you think about this JBL Flip 6 review? Do let us know in the comment.

About Ankeet Solanki

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