JBL Flip 7: A Portable Speaker That Punches Above Its Weight

JBL’s pursuit of the perfect speaker may be an unattainable goal, but with each new iteration, they seem to be making significant strides. The JBL Flip 7 is a prime example of this progress. While it might initially appear to be just another run-of-the-mill portable speaker, a closer look reveals a device that surpasses its predecessor in several key areas. It’s lighter, more durable, and boasts enhanced bass and redesigned tweeters, resulting in a speaker that delivers exceptional audio quality for its size and price.

Design and Durability

The Flip 7’s design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. It’s available in a range of six colors, from the understated white to the more vibrant camo, red, and blue. The speaker’s exterior is primarily constructed from a grayish-white fabric that is made entirely from recycled materials. The plastic components, both on the exterior and within, are composed of 75% post-consumer recycled plastic, highlighting JBL’s commitment to sustainability.

The endcaps of the Flip 7 are a silvery white with a metallic exclamation point at the center, adding a touch of visual flair. The JBL logo, a silver emblem outlined in red, is prominently displayed on the front of the speaker. The buttons for volume control and play/pause are subtly integrated into the fabric lining, while a small console behind them houses the power, Bluetooth, and Auracast buttons.

One of the standout features of the Flip 7 is its exceptional durability. It’s IP68 certified, meaning it’s waterproof for up to 30 minutes in 1 meter of freshwater, as well as dust and drop-proof from heights of up to 1 meter onto concrete or hardwood. This robust design makes the Flip 7 one of the most durable portable speakers on the market, capable of withstanding the rigors of outdoor adventures and everyday use. The speaker also features a USB-C charging port and a gray lanyard that can be easily exchanged for a carabiner using JBL’s new PushLock system. This system allows for quick and secure attachment of accessories, providing added convenience and versatility.

The Flip 7 is also remarkably lightweight and compact. It weighs in at just 58.4 ounces and measures 7.2 x 2.7 x 2.6 inches, making it easy to slip into a bag or carry around. It is lighter than the Anker Soundcore Boom 2, the Beats Pill, and the Bose Soundlink Flex. While it is slightly heavier and larger than its predecessor, the Flip 6, the enhancements in performance and durability more than make up for the slight increase in size.

Sound Quality

The JBL Flip 7 truly shines when it comes to sound quality. Despite its compact size, it delivers a surprisingly powerful and clear audio experience. The upgraded bass and redesigned tweeter dome contribute to a significant improvement in overall sound performance. JBL’s proprietary AI Boost technology analyzes music in real time to optimize performance and minimize distortion.

The Flip 7 excels at producing a generous soundstage with clean, balanced audio. The sound quality remains consistent regardless of the listener’s position relative to the speaker. The soundstage is full regardless of location in a space like a living room. The app offers several EQ presets, most listeners will be more than satisfied with the default JBL Signature setting. While there may be occasional instances of mild distortion or weak bass on certain tracks, these are rare occurrences.

The speaker has been tested with a wide range of music genres, including Hip-Hop, Rock, R&B, Country, Jazz, and Alternative. The Flip 7 consistently delivers impressive results, with warm, vibrant audio that brings music to life. It is fun to watch the endcaps vibrate as the bass radiators push air through them. However, it’s important to position the speaker properly to prevent it from moving due to the vibrations.

Features and Performance

The Flip 7 offers a range of features that enhance its usability and versatility. These features can be accessed through the free JBL Portable app. The app includes an equalizer with four presets, as well as the option to create custom sound profiles. It also offers PlaytimeBoost, a feature that extends battery life by disabling the EQ while boosting volume.

One of the most exciting features of the Flip 7 is Auracast technology. This new technology allows for audio sharing across multiple devices. With Auracast, the Flip 7 can connect to an unlimited number of compatible devices, enabling users to create a wider stereo soundstage or broadcast music to a larger group. The PartyTogether feature can be used to connect two Flip 7 speakers, or to bridge the Flip 7 with the Charge 6.

The Flip 7 offers a battery life of up to 14 hours on a single charge. Enabling PlaytimeBoost can extend battery life by an additional two hours. The Flip 7 comes with 70% battery life so it is ready to play right out of the box.

Value and Conclusion

The JBL Flip 7 is a fantastic Bluetooth speaker that offers premium sound quality at a mid-tier price. It’s durable, portable, and packed with features that make it an excellent choice for a variety of settings. The Flip 7 is a compelling option for anyone looking for a portable speaker that delivers exceptional sound quality, durability, and value. The JBL Flip 7 is a winner. With redesigned tweeter domes, upgraded bass, and JBL’s proprietary AI Boost technology, it produces a warm, vibrant audio with a generous soundstage and long battery life.