JBL Boombox 3 and JBL Charge 5 get WLAN

Audio professional JBL launches an update for the two Bluetooth speakers JBL Boombox 3 and JBL Charge 5. Both are getting a makeover that adds a WLAN feature, allowing for high-quality audio streaming.

JBL Boombox 3 and JBL Charge 5 with WLAN upgrade

JBL is equipping its two Bluetooth speakers with an upgrade that should please those who use the speakers primarily at home. Both receive a new edition with WLAN connectivity. According to the manufacturer, this should enable music playback with a more stable connection, while the smartphone can simply be used.

At the same time, an automatic sound optimization is supposed to recognize when the speaker is in a new environment and thus adjust the sound. Thanks to the open-streaming ecosystem, many services can be used, while streaming is done via AirPlay 2, Alexa MRM or Chromecast built-in.

“WLAN not only provides additional connectivity, but also enables new audio formats like Dolby Atmos. The speakers also join our ever-growing range of eco-friendly audio products. A topic very close to our hearts,” explains Carsten Olesen, President Consumer Audio, HARMAN Lifestyle Division.

New Look

But it’s not just the sound that has changed with JBL Boombox 3 and JBL Charge 5. The manufacturer has also screwed on the design and puts the speakers in a subtle black look along with eye-catching gold details.

Both speaker housings are made of 90 percent recycled plastic and the speaker grille is made of 100 percent recycled fabric. Packaging is also kept eco-friendly with FSC-certified paper and ink made from soy.

Both speakers are also waterproof and dustproof, and can be operated and personalized using the JBL One app.

The JBL Boombox 3 Wi-Fi features

• Violent JBL Original Pro sound with deepest bass
• Built-in subwoofer, two midrange drivers and two tweeters create a premium 3-way speaker design
• WLAN 6 for stable connectivity and high-quality audio streaming
• HD audio performance with 24bit/ 96kHz playback over WLAN
• Bluetooth 5.3 (LE Audio Ready)
• 3D Dolby Atmos available through Tidal in-app via the JBL One app
• Self-optimization feature
• 24 hours of battery life
• AirPlay 2, Alexa MRM and Chromecast built-in
• Integrated power bank
• Momentary button to play playlists via the JBL One app on the speaker

Features of the JBL Charge 5 Wi-Fi

• Saturated JBL Original Pro Sound
• Long-throw driver, separate tweeter and two passive bass radiators for better volume and clarity
• WLAN 6 for stable connectivity and high-quality audio streaming
• HD audio performance with 24bit/ 96kHz playback over WLAN
• Bluetooth 5.3 (LE Audio Ready)
• Self-optimization feature
• AirPlay 2, Alexa MRM and Chromecast built-in
• 20 hours of battery life
• Integrated power bank
• Waterproof and dustproof to IP67
• Momentary button to play playlists via the JBL One app on the speaker

Prices and Availability

Both Bluetooth speakers with Wi-Fi functionality are expected to be available directly from the manufacturer starting in mid-May. The JBL Boombox 3 Wi-Fi has a recommended retail price of 599.99 euros, while the JBL Charge 5 Wi-Fi will be available for 249.99 euros.