Ultimate Ears Epicboom: The New Standard for Portable Speakers

After much anticipation, the Ultimate Ears Epicboom has finally arrived, and it does not disappoint. This speaker is a refreshing addition to the brand’s lineup, known for its impressive sound quality. With its bold and eye-catching design, reminiscent of multiple mug-sized Wonderbooms merged into one powerful device, the Epicboom stands out from the competition. And let’s not forget the Outdoor Boost button, a beloved feature from the Wonderboom 2, which takes pride of place on the top plate.

When it comes to sound quality, the Epicboom is one of the best Bluetooth speakers on the market. This shouldn’t come as a surprise to those familiar with the Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 2, a speaker that was hailed as one of the best options in 2019. While the newer Wonderboom 3 didn’t receive the same level of praise, largely due to its lack of significant updates, the Epicboom delivers a zealous and prominent sound that won’t disappoint.

In terms of size, the Epicboom falls between the smaller Megaboom 3 and the larger UE Hyperboom. Despite its near-2kg weight, the speaker can still be easily carried by its sides like a plant pot. And wherever you decide to place it, indoor or outdoor, you can expect a meaty and impressive sound.

The Ultimate Ears Boom app allows users to power the Epicboom on or off with their phone, adjust the EQ, engage the Outdoor Boost feature, control the volume, and even connect up to 150 other PartyUp-enabled Booms. However, it’s important to note that PartyUp is not compatible with the newest Wonderboom, Blast or Megablast UE speakers. Nonetheless, if you own the Boom, Boom 2, Boom 3, Megaboom, Megaboom 3 or Hyperboom, the PartyUp feature will take your listening experience to the next level.

While the Epicboom offers an impressive set of features, it’s essential to consider a couple of drawbacks. Firstly, the battery life, while acceptable at 17 hours, could have been better. Additionally, the speaker comes with a higher price tag compared to its competitors. Logitech, the parent company of UE, is known for its competitively priced speakers, but the Epicboom is priced at $349 / £340 / AU$499, making it a more premium option.

Speaking of competition, there are other speakers in the market that offer similar features at a lower price point. The Sonos Era 100, for example, is significantly cheaper and works seamlessly with both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi multi-room setups. Furthermore, the larger UE Hyperboom is available for just a little more than the Epicboom.

When it comes to connectivity, the Epicboom only offers Bluetooth and has a range of 55m (180ft). This raises the question of whether there is still a demand for this type of speaker in 2023. However, if you prioritize a speaker that can connect to your phone and deliver powerful, high-quality sound, the Epicboom is the perfect choice.

Despite its slightly higher price and limited wireless connectivity, the Epicboom earns its high rating due to its exceptional sound quality. It is undoubtedly one of the best party speakers available in the market today.

The Ultimate Ears Epicboom was released on September 6, 2023, and is priced at $349 / £340 / AU$499. It comes in two color options: cotton white with ‘lipstick red’ accents and charcoal black with lime. This shoe-box sized speaker bridges the gap between the larger Hyperboom and the smaller Megaboom 3.

In terms of specifications, the Epicboom weighs 2kg and measures 16.2cm (L) x 11.9cm (W) x 24.1cm (H). It boasts a battery life of 17 hours and offers Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity. The speaker features two 45mm active mid-high frequency transducers and a 120mm woofer.

When it comes to design, the Epicboom brings back Ultimate Ears’ signature fun and fresh aesthetic. Made from environmentally friendly materials, including 100% post-consumer recycled polyester fabric and a minimum of 59% post-consumer recycled plastic, the speaker is both classy and cute. The dual drivers and woofer deliver immersive sound with impressive bass clarity, reaching volumes of over 94dB without distortion.

Overall, the Ultimate Ears Epicboom sets a new standard for portable speakers. It may come with a higher price tag and limited wireless capabilities, but its exceptional sound quality and unique design make it a standout choice for those looking to elevate their listening experience.