JBL Xtreme 3 Review

Harman Kardon updated the Bluetooth speaker JBL Xtreme 3. The new product follows the previous generation product model, but the internal innovation is comprehensive. For example, using Harman Algorithm’s unique acoustic algorithm DSP, the total speaker power is increased to 100W, and the protection level is upgraded to IP67. As a result, Xtreme 3’s all-around upgrade can bring a better experience.

The JBL portable Bluetooth speaker product line can be divided into three different product lines according to the difference in power and size. They include Go 3, Clip 4, which pursues portability; Flip 5, Charge 5, Pulse 4, which take into account mobility and sound quality, and the pursuit of high Power output Xtreme 3, Boombox 2, and JBL Xtreme 3 is a heavy-duty speaker second only to Boombox 2.

Design

Although JBL Xtreme 3 Bluetooth speaker is not known for its size, Harman Kardon still spares no effort to make the speakers lightweight while improving the sound quality and strive to improve the portability of the speakers. Xtreme 3 measures 298.5 * 136 * 134mm with a cylindrical shape. The speaker has a metal LOGO on the front, and the surface is covered with a waterproof fabric speaker net.

Two metal hooks are reserved on the top, and a shoulder strap is attached, which is convenient for users to carry out. In addition to black color matching, there are blue and grey options.

The Driver

There are four drivers and two bass passive enhancement units in Xtreme 3. Two of them are 70mm mid-woofer speakers, and two are 20mm tweeters. The size is the same as the previous generation product. However, the magnets used in the speakers have been changed from ferrite magnets to neodymium magnets, which improves the sensitivity and power without changing the number of speakers.

As a result, the power of JBL Xtreme 3 reaches 100W, which is 2.5 times that of Xtreme 2, and the neodymium magnet is lighter in weight and occupies The volume is smaller, so the weight of Xtreme 3 is reduced by 1.96KG, which is only 82% of Xtreme 2.

In addition to the new speakers, JBL Xtreme 3 protable speaker uses the Harman Algorithm acoustic algorithm in the DSP chip. The algorithm can ensure the output volume to the greatest extent, improve the low-frequency performance of the sound, and solve some problems such as distortion.

Coupled with the enlarged acoustic cavity and the passive bass diaphragm with unique materials applied on both sides of the speaker, the frequency response range is increased from 55 Hz-20k Hz to 53 Hz-20k Hz signal-to-noise ratio exceeds 80dB.

The Battery

To provide sufficient power, JBL Xtreme 3 has a built-in 36.3Wh high-capacity lithium battery, which provides up to 15 hours of playback. It is also equipped with a USB Type-C port power adapter with a maximum output of 20V 3A, and the fastest charging time is only 2.5 hours.

If the user forgets to bring the power adapter when going out, the user does not have to worry about not replenishing the power. Xtreme 3 supports multiple charging voltages of 5V, 9V, 12V, and 20V. It can be charged with a mobile phone charger or a laptop charger, which is very convenient.

The Connections

JBL Xtreme 3’s interface is hidden under the protective rubber cover. From left to right are USB Type-A, USB Type-C, and 3.5mm audio input. In addition, JBL Xtreme 3 speaker has a reverse charging function. The USB Type-C and USB-A interfaces can output 5V 1.5A and 5V 2A separately, which can charge mobile phones, smartwatches, and other devices. If the two interfaces are used at the same time, the maximum output is 5V 2.5 A.

The Waterproof

JBL Xtreme 3 is a party-oriented speaker. Waterproof capability is naturally indispensable, and its performance is qualitatively improved compared to the previous generation product. It has reached the IP67 rating, which means that the speaker can completely prevent dust intrusion.

It can be immersed in a water depth of 1 meter for 30 minutes. , The speaker will not enter the water and is fully adapted to outdoor environments such as swimming pools and beaches.

The Bluetooth

JBL Xtreme 3 has 100W output power, and its performance is fascinating. However, the sound quality of Bluetooth speakers does not entirely depend on the hardware, and the quality of the music source input via Bluetooth is also quite critical. Xtreme 3 uses Bluetooth 5.1 technology, with a transmission bandwidth of 24Mbps, twice the Bluetooth 4.2 used by Xtreme 2.

The theoretical effective transmission distance is four times Xtreme 2, which saves power and guarantees sound quality. It also supports up to two devices. At the same time, connect to the speakers.

And the PartyBoost mode of Xtreme 3 provides streaming, stereo, and two functions. In the beginning, the Bluetooth speaker was used as a standalone speaker, equivalent to a mono amplifier. However, the streaming function allows JBL Xtreme 3 to copy the sound to another device through Bluetooth technology with streaming and stereo functions. Thus, extend the coverage of music, very suitable for large-scale live use.

The stereo function combines two Xtreme 3 sets into a left and right channel stereo speaker system, which is suitable for use with notebook computers and desktop computers, significantly increasing the range of speakers. To facilitate users to use the two functions of streaming and stereo, users can set it in the mobile APP “JBL Portable” and through the “∞” button on the top of the speaker.

To start the Partyboost mode, press the “∞” button on one speaker. The Bluetooth indicator will light up. Then, press the “∞” button on additional speakers to add them to the session. They will play a rising or falling tone to indicate success or failure. Additional speakers don’t need to be paired with the same Bluetooth source device to join a session.

Sound Performance

The overall sound performance of the third-generation Xtreme is good, with excellent treble end expansion and sufficient mid-to-high frequencies, so the human voice is very clear when listening to podcasts. Although the low frequency and bass are lacking, the sub-frequency effect is perfect.

The frequency response of the speakers is very suitable for listening to music and podcasts in almost all of our usage scenarios (before going to bed, in friendly gatherings, in the bathroom, kitchen, outdoors), and also suitable for watching movies.

There is still room for an increase in volume dependence. Although the score is good at the nominal volume, we find that the sound balance is brighter. At a soft volume, the treble and bass are slightly insufficient, while the high frequency is particularly prominent at the maximum volume. But the bass fidelity is solid.

JBL Xtreme 3 Bluetooth speaker has a perfect sense of space overall. Although the lack of mid and low frequencies may slightly weaken the sense of intimacy with the sound source, the sense of distance is still in line with reality. The balance between the left and right channels is also outstanding, which can center the human voice. Although the position of the sound source is slightly fuzzy, it is still above average.

Conclusion

JBL’s Xtreme series of ultra-rugged portable speakers once again shocked people. The latest generation of speakers can provide rich and vivid sound and has excellent treble end expansion, clear, centered vocals, excellent dynamics, and a pretty good sense of space.

It is particularly suitable for watching movies, listening to podcasts, and listening to music outdoors or in a complex acoustic environment (such as a bathroom or kitchen). For the next generation of Xtreme, what can be improved is that regardless of the listening volume, there is better tonal balance and consistency, a more natural volume gradient, and better mid and low frequencies.

What Buyers Say About JBL Xtreme 3?

I got 2 of these for my pool party. They can be paired to stereo, and the sound filled up my backyard like it a pair of heavy DJ speakers. Took one of them to the river as well over in Guerneville for the weekend, the sound is superb, full and plenty of bass, drowned out the other speakers on the river bank. I would recommend to all my friends.

I’ve always been a fan of JBL gear, and the JBL Xtreme 3 did not disappoint. Premium audio quality, pretty good battery life, and a nice durable water resistant body. Its a bit lighter than you would expect for its size, which makes it great for taking on outdoor adventures or just hanging out by the pool.

For the price, it’s worth every penny! Definitely one of the best purchases I’ve made for an everyday, go on vacation box! Love the battery life and the fact you can use some of that life to charge your phone too! Would seriously recommend the JBL Xtreme 3 to anyone!

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JBL Xtreme 3 Specifications

• Bluetooth version: 5.1
• Output power (W): 2 x 25W RMS woofer + 2 x 25W RMS tweeter
• Bluetooth profiles: A2DP 1.3, AVRCP 1.6
• Bluetooth frequency: 2400MHz – 2483.5 MHz
• Bluetooth transmitted modulation: GFSK, π/4 DQPSK, 8DPSK
• Bluetooth transmitter power: ≤ 12dBm (EIRP)
• Battery Type: Li-ion 36.3Wh
• Charging time (hrs): 2.5
• Dynamic frequency response range (Hz): 53.5 Hz – 20k Hz
• Dimensions (cm): 29.8 x 13.9 x 13.4
• Dimensions (in): 11.75 x 5.35 x 5.28
• Weight (kgs): 1.97
• Weight (lbs): 4.34
• 3.5 mm audio cable Input: Yes
• Bluetooth: Yes
• Charging cable: Yes
• Powerbank: Yes
• Waterproof: Yes
• Wireless: Yes
• Rechargable battery: Yes
• JBL PartyBoost: Yes
• IP67: Yes