JBL Go 5 Squad

The JBL Go is a handy little speaker that I take with me everywhere. The speaker can play at high volume, which means I also use it when I'm with friends. Unfortunately, the sound at high volume is less full.

Small and handy size The speaker is small and has a handy rectangular shape. It weighs 230 grams and feels very light. Thanks to its small, handy size, it fits comfortably in the hand. It is a good ‘grab and go’ speaker that I take with me everywhere. Thanks to the loop, I attach it to my bag with a hook or carry the speaker with one finger.

Built-in lights The built-in light strips are a new addition to the JBL Go line. I think it gives the speaker a futuristic look. The top light strip changes when I adjust the volume. I think it's a fun addition, but I can't clearly see what the volume level is. In the JBL Portable app, I choose from various light themes. For example, I choose the Loop, which makes the light move in a circle. Personally, I like Freeze the best, because the lights stay on constantly.

Loud Sound Given its size, I didn't expect the speaker to produce so much sound. At two-thirds of the volume, I can already hear the music loudly throughout my entire living room and kitchen. Because of this, I also use it when I'm having drinks with friends at home. The sound quality varies greatly depending on the equalizer setting. For instance, I choose Energetic when I place the speaker further away from me. In this setting, the bass is louder and I can hear the vocals clearly. However, I do notice that the sound is less full than at a lower volume. When I place the speaker on my desk while working from home, I choose Chill. With this, I hear a more balanced sound with a slight emphasis on the highs and mids. I find this pleasant to listen to, as there is no heavy bass. I hear the most balanced sound with the JBL Signature setting. I use this when I want to listen to music for a long time while being comfortable. The Vocal setting makes vocals very clear. I only use this setting when listening to podcasts. With music, it results in a slightly tinny sound.

For a small speaker, it performs very well! Sufficient bass; it is of course just a small device, so don't expect deep bass. But definitely enough to balance the sound. It handles the mids and highs very well too!

You can adjust the sound to your own taste using the equalizer via the app. Highly recommended if you are looking for a small speaker, ideal for the garden, camping, by the water, etc.

PS: The light effects can be changed and/or turned off in the app.

The go5 is perfect for use on a balcony/in the garden

Pure sound without causing a nuisance