Even though the JBL GO is only 71.2 x 86.0 x 31.6 (mm) in size, it is remarkably loud. Even if the bass response can’t keep up with the clear mids and highs, audio performance is good for its size. Although its 5-hour battery life should be longer, this IPX7 waterproof speaker is a great deal for anyone who value portability above all else. JBL has eliminated all of the sharp edges from the GO+’s predecessor, the Go 2, for the new model. Although our review sample is officially referred to as yellow, it does it a disservice because it is retro-fabulously iridescent. There are 12 colours in the range. Although the accompanying USB charger is a slightly out-of-place bright orange shade, given the price, this is a minor flaw. The Go 2 resembles a vintage soap bar in appearance. In fact, our immediate reaction is to repeat, “The first rule of Fight Club,” while holding it up to our forehead. The Go 2 has a complete waterproof IPX7 rating, continuing the soapy theme, so you could literally drop it in the bathtub. On the right side of the speaker, there is a speakerphone with built-in noise cancellation and an aux in and micro-USB port. Five tiny buttons are located across the top, yet they don’t hide the attractive design. When it comes to sound, the Go 2 really pulls its weight. Hozier’s closer, belting vocals are audible in contrast to when he approaches the mic to use his upper register. The bass punch of the Go 2 is obviously constrained by its size. Compared to its competitor, the Anker SoundCore 2, which is equally priced, the Go 2 has a little thinner sound. The high end is slightly more exposed and evident, but it gives more detail and more clearly distinguishes between notes. Overall, it sounds better than the other product. The Go 2’s battery life is the primary issue we have with it. The maximum playing time after two and a half hours of charging is only five hours. That might be sufficient for an afternoon spent by the pool, but perhaps not for a picnic or an entire day at the beach.
