JBL extends its lineup of speakers once again with JBL Flip 6
JBL Flip 6 builds on the framework laid out by previous entries in the company’s portable pill-shaped Bluetooth speakers lineup but with a few improvements over past devices. Of course, it keeps the PartyBoost mode, letting users pair multiple JBL speakers in stereo. And it keeps the “racetrack-shaped” driver as well. Offering great response in both bass and highs. This time around though, JBL is splitting the tweeter from the dual passive radiators. That should, according to the company, improve high-frequency extension. As well as improving the split between highs, mids, and lows. In effect, broadening and deepening the sound stage. All without hampering what makes these JBL speakers great, to begin with. Such as 12-hours of playback on a single charge, Bluetooth 5.1 support, and an IP67 dust and water resistance rating.
JBL PartyBox 110 and 710 take the company’s premium party lineup to the next level
Building further on that, JBL is also introducing the JBL PartyBox 110 and PartyBox 710 to this year’s fall portable audio lineup. As the branding implies, these are larger-than-life, more expensive entries following on a number of previous devices. And they bring the specs to the table to match the price. To begin with, both JBL PartyBox 110 and PartyBox 710 offer a splashproof IPX4 rating. Each supports syncing up to two PartyBox speakers for true wireless stereo audio. And for synced lighting via the figure 8 RGB animation and strobe light at the front. That’s via the JBL PartyBox App, allowing for control over music, light show, and other attributes. JBL also says the large PartyBox 710 supports adding “DJ sound effects” via the app. Similarly, both devices are larger than might be expected. With full support not just for USB or Bluetooth input. But also with support for Guitar and mic inputs. Supported further, as might be expected, by massive audio output ratings. The 12-hour battery life of the JBL PartyBox 110 delivers audio projected via its cabinet — with an angled-back design for better sound projection — at up to 160W. JBL hasn’t specified a battery life for the JBL PartyBox 710. But that speaker is larger in all regards, with audio output at up to 800W RMS via two 2.75-inch low distortion tweeters, two improved high sensitivity 8-inch excursion drivers, and an improved bass reflex port. And, of course, due in part to its larger size, the JBL PartyBox 710 comes complete with a ruggedized handle and wheels to help users lug it around.
Pricing and availability
Now, as noted right at the beginning, these speakers are effectively the JBL fall lineup. Typically, they’d have been announced in conjunction with IFA but this year, that event isn’t happening. In terms of pricing and exact availability, though, the company has provided those details. The JBL Flip 6 will be available in the US in December in Grey Stone, River Teal, Ocean Blue, Midnight Black, or Squad colorations. And pricing in the region will start at $129.95. Pricing in Europe, conversely, will start out at €139 with sales starting in November. The most powerful of the new offerings from JBL, the PartyBox 710, will start out at $799.95 in the US in November. It’ll sell for €749 in Europe when it goes on sale in October. JBL PartyBox 110 starts out at $399.95 or €359, depending on the sales region. It’s also available right now and, as with the other products here, at JBL.com or other retailers.
