Bose SoundLink Micro 2: Big sound from a compact design
With double the battery life, IP67 water resistance, and signature sound quality, the second-generation Bose SoundLink Micro offers significant upgrades over its predecessor.
In the market for ultra-compact portable speakers, the second-generation Bose SoundLink Micro stands out as a noteworthy option at $129. This product not only focuses on portability but also delivers superior sound quality for its size, along with significant improvements in durability and battery life, addressing the weaknesses of its predecessor.
The core upgrades of the second generation.
Compared to the first version released in 2017, the SoundLink Micro 2 has been comprehensively upgraded by Bose, focusing on user experience and durability during daily use.
New battery life and charging standards
One of the biggest improvements is battery life. Bose has doubled the usage time from 6 hours to 12 hours on a single full charge. This allows users to comfortably use the speaker all day long without worrying about constantly recharging. Real-world testing showed that after more than an hour of listening to music at 50% volume, the speaker's battery barely decreased, indicating that the manufacturer's estimate is quite accurate. In addition, the switch from the outdated microUSB port to the modern USB-C port facilitates compatibility with newer technology devices and offers greater convenience.
Military-grade durability with IP67 rating.
Bose has upgraded the durability of the SoundLink Micro 2 to IP67. This means the speaker is completely dustproof and waterproof to a depth of 1 meter for up to 30 minutes. Users can confidently take the speaker on picnics, to the beach, or to the pool without fear of damage from dirt or water. The outer silicone casing also feels sturdy and can withstand normal impacts.
Sound quality: A Bose hallmark
Despite its modest size, the SoundLink Micro 2 delivers Bose's signature sound. The sound is reproduced in a balanced way, with a powerful, punchy bass that doesn't overpower the mid and high frequencies. This allows vocals and instruments to be rendered clearly and in detail, suitable for a wide range of music genres from jazz and rock to ambient.
However, due to physical limitations, the speaker still has certain drawbacks. At high volume levels, distortion may occur. Additionally, in some recordings, the treble range is sometimes slightly harsh. Despite this, compared to competitors in the same ultra-portable segment, the sound quality of the SoundLink Micro 2 is still highly rated.
Smart design and features
The SoundLink Micro 2 retains the convenient Velcro strap design, but this time it's detachable and replaceable. The strap allows users to easily attach the speaker to backpack straps, bicycle handlebars, or belts. However, a minor drawback is that this design causes the speaker to project sound outwards, not directly towards the listener.
Another notable change is the removal of the built-in microphone, meaning users can no longer use the speaker for hands-free calling or to activate the virtual assistant. In return, the speaker gains a programmable "shortcut" button via the Bose app. This button is used by default to connect two Bose speakers together (Party Mode) or can be customized to quickly access Spotify playlists.
Market position and consumer choice
In the market, the direct competitor of the Bose SoundLink Micro 2 is the JBL Clip series. While JBL speakers often have a louder volume, the SoundLink Micro 2 excels in the subtlety and balance of its sound. Priced approximately $30 higher than its competitor, Bose's product targets users who prioritize sound quality over sheer volume.
In summary, the second-generation Bose SoundLink Micro is a solid and worthwhile product in the ultra-portable speaker segment. With significant improvements in battery life, durability, and excellent sound quality in a compact form factor, it's an ideal choice for those seeking a speaker for outdoor activities without sacrificing too much in terms of audio experience.