A
Portable Speaker For Smartphones, Tablets & TV’s
© 2017 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
BOB SKIDMORE
CORRESPONDENT
The sound that emanates from a smartphone, tablet or
computer is often less than desirable, especially if you’re listening to your
favorite music. World-renowned JBL, a leader in speaker technology, has an
interesting solution.
The JBL Flip 2
and 3 are small cylinder shaped portable speakers with a wide volume range.
They easily connect to Bluetooth devices wirelessly, but include a mini input
jack when Bluetooth is unavailable. On/Off, volume and an indicator LED are
mounted on the side panel. The model 3 is even splash proof. All models are
available in various colors and an optional travel case is available.
(TIP: Splash
proof means it’s protected against rain, spills and the manufacturer claims you
can even clean it with running tap water, something I have not tried.)
I tested the Flip 2 and found it to work very well for
the intended purpose. When connected with a smartphone it serves not only as a
speaker, but also as a microphone, allowing two-way communication when taking
phone calls. This is ideal for conferencing a call with a group of people,
making it a perfect small meeting room solution. As a portable speaker it
easily connects to tablets, computers, portable satellite radio receivers and
TV’s. Since some of these devices do not feature Bluetooth, a mini jack is
provided.
In a previous column, I discussed the Behringer HA400 distribution
box. http://bit.ly/2gMj7Mb Either Flip will easily connect to it making it an easy way
to provide TV sound close by without disturbing others. I used it between the
pillows while watching late night TV. I’ve also used it as an external speaker
for my laptop. The volume range and sound quality far exceeded the computer’s
built-in speaker system. Since both models include a built-in battery, the
mobility factor is greatly enhanced.
(TIP: Battery
life is about 10 hours. Charging is possible with the included wall charger. In
any power mode the speaker should not be covered up. It needs proper
ventilation to prevent possible damage caused by over heating.)
The Flip 2 and 3 are great solutions to extending and
improving the sound intensity of your devices. They are very durable, small,
lightweight and portable making them ideal for use even by sound and video
professionals. The applications are simply endless. FLIP is a sound solution to your listening experience!
GADGETEER’s RATING: ★★★★★
MSRP: $69.95 ~ $79.95 ~ Travel Case $24.95
Graphic
credits: Amazon
Bob
Skidmore is a freelance writer, who may be contacted at bob.thegadgeteer.skidmore@gmail.com, or followed at twitter.com/bskidmore for the latest gadget industry news. He does not represent,
or endorse any of the products he reviews and his opinions are solely his
points of view and not those of the manufacturer. The manufacturer generally
supplies products and press releases at no cost for the articles and no other
compensation is received. THE GADGETEER is highly selective as to products he
feels worthy of review so as not to waste the reader’s time, thus the reason
for many superior ratings.
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