In the summer of 2016, JBL introduced an updated version of its popular portable speaker JBL Charge 3. Its characteristics are slightly different from the previous version, as well as some features. In today's review, we will consider this device in detail, in order not only to refresh the memory, but also to talk about another important topic - how to distinguish the original column from a fake. Let's get started!
Description
JBL Charge 3 replaced the no less popular Charge 2 bell tower and immediately began to gain popularity. The main advantage of the new model was not only improved characteristics and a larger battery, but also the appearance of the IPX7 protocol, which allows you to take a column with you to the sea, pool or jacuzzi - it is not afraid of moisture and water. Now, first things first.
Contents of delivery
The JBL Charge 3 speaker is sold in a small cardboard box with a nice matte finish. On top of the packaging is a large depiction of the column itself, which floats in water. Also on the package are the characteristics of the model and its main features.
Inside the box you can find the following kit:
- Wireless speaker JBL Charge 3.
- USB-microUSB cable for charging.
- Charger adapter.
- 3 additional wiki tips for the power adapter for the desired outlet.
- Instruction
- Quick start guide.
- Warranty card.
Compared with the previous version, there is no branded cover, but, in principle, it is not needed, since now there is full moisture protection. As for the configuration, the manufacturer would like to thank for the additional plugs for the required outlet. Not every manufacturer can see this.
Design and appearance
JBL Charge 3 looks very interesting and recognizable. The traditional form of the "barrel" has been preserved, as well as a large selection of colors for every taste. The material from which the column body is made is a dense rubberized fabric that looks a bit like a metal mesh. It is this fabric that does not allow water to penetrate into the device. In addition to fabric, soft touch plastic is also used here, of which the side walls are made.
The company logo is located on the front of the device, and a charge level indicator is located closer to the bottom. The controls are on top: Bluetooth button, volume down, power on, JBL Connect, volume up and start / pause. Only 2 center buttons have a backlight.
At the back of the speaker is a rubber plug, behind which is a 3.5 mm jack, USB and microUSB. At both ends of the Charge 3 are passive silver radiators with overflows. They also have a brand logo.
Characteristics JBL Charge 3
JBL Charge 3 has a pair of built-in speakers at 10 watts, which in total is 20 watts - is already not bad. The frequency range of the speaker is quite wide, and even wired speakers for the computer - 65-20,000 Hz, may well envy it. Of the differences from the previous model, it is worth noting the appearance of a more powerful battery, which added a little weight, but now the speaker can play up to 20 hours from a full charge without problems.
The proprietary JBL Connect function allows you to combine several columns into a single whole, that is, you can easily take 3-4 JBL columns with support for the JBL Connect function, and they will play as one system. The effect is very cool, and it is difficult to describe in words. In addition, "Charge 3" supports the simultaneous connection of up to 3 control devices, and it does not matter if it is a smartphone or laptop. Thus, the company solved a popular problem when only 1 person controlled music at parties or in some other situation.
As for moisture protection, it allows you to immerse the column in water to a depth of 1 meter for a period of not more than 30 minutes. But this only applies to diving - you can swim with the speaker at least all day.
In general, the characteristics of the JBL Charge 3 are better than the previous model, which is good news.
Sound quality
The sound quality of the JBL Charge 3 is at the highest level. This is not the first time the company has confirmed that it really specializes in audio technology. Nothing causes complaints here. The bass is excellent, the middle is very well heard, high frequencies also leave no questions. In general, this model can be safely set as a standard among portable speakers. So many manufacturers should pay attention to how JBL makes their devices.
The volume margin is also there, and it is very decent. According to general feelings, the maximum volume is enough to fill the room with 35-40 "squares" without problems. What is more important, when the volume level is increased, the sound quality does not fall, and any distortions, rattles do not appear.
Reviews
The reviews of JBL Charge 3 show that the model is devoid of any significant drawbacks. Perhaps the only thing the column lacks is the NFC module, which some users write about. Otherwise, there are no complaints. The characteristics of JBL Charge 3 suit everyone, the quality of the materials, too, and the column is worth the money.
How to distinguish an original from a copy
Well, at the end of the review, I would like to talk about how you can distinguish a fake from the original JBL Charge 3.
The first thing you should pay attention to is packaging. In appearance, it may not differ from the real one, but this is not so. The original on the packaging under the JBL logo must have the inscription Harman - this is the corporation that owns JBL. If this inscription is not, then you have a fake. Also on fake packages do not have most of the characteristics of the column and, most importantly, the image on the top of the package differs markedly from the original.
But what if the box somehow turned out to be real randomly, then how to distinguish the original JBL Charge 3 from a copy? Firstly, by the logo on the column. For a fake, it will be smaller and slightly dull compared to the original. Secondly, by the control buttons. On the copy they are smaller and are located as close to each other as possible. Thirdly, the plastic at the ends of the column. The original uses soft plastic with a soft touch coating, while the manufacture of a fake JBL Charge 3 uses the usual cheap plastic.
In addition, the fake produces a poor-quality fabric, which covers the body. The original feels a certain rubberized surface, and the copy is a regular rag. It is also worth opening the rear cover. If among the available 3 slots there is another fourth for a microSD memory card, then this is 100% fake.
That, in general, is all. These tips should be enough to easily distinguish a fake column from an unsurpassed original.