JBL - Authentics 300 Smart Home Speaker - Black

JBL’s Authentics line is the “by audiophiles for audiophiles“ part of JBLs consumer product catalog, and that focus comes through in spades wtih this weighty, room-filling speaker. The sound is leagues beyond even JBL‘s well-known “Xtreme” portable speaker range. Add in the apps shared across the Authentics line, support for both Alexa and Google Assistant (at the same time, if you want!), extensive connectivity options, and a strong 8 hour battery life (amazing considering the sound this thing puts out) and you have probably the single best portable speaker yet released by anyone. It is that good. The JBL One app is a must-have. It is your source for the best quality streaming music across most of the top major services (Apple Music being a notable exception— but that ends up being OK for reasons below). Because the services are built into the app that connects to the speaker over WiFi , the sound quality of each of them (provided you subscribe to the top tiers and set your streaming options accordingly) is absolutely top notch. Connectivity abounds: Airplay 2, TIDAL connect, Alexa Multi-Room Music, Spotify Connect, Chromecast — the gang’s all here, and they sound fabulous in this speaker. Bluetooth exists, and you can use it if you must — but you can do better, and you should. I’d share wifi from my phone before settling for Bluetooth audio on a device with this many better options. Build quality is superb. The handle feels great to use, materials are excellent, the bass can shake your walls, and feel of the entire device is reassuringly solid. Big knobs (thank you, JBL!) handle volume, treble, and bass. My advice: buy it. If you can get it on sale, even better — but I didn’t blink twice when paying full price, and I had zero buyer’s remorse. This is a great purchase.

I purchased this Bluetooth speaker around 8 months ago, and I couldn’t be happier with my decision. The sound quality is outstanding for such a compact device—clear highs, rich mids, and surprisingly deep bass. It easily fills a room and holds its own even outdoors. Pairing is quick and effortless, and the connection stays strong with no dropouts. I absolutely love the retro design, honestly main reason I got it. I appreciate that its durable build and it feels solid and looks great on any shelf or desk. Battery life is another win. I’ve gotten well over 10 hours of continuous playback on a single charge, which makes it perfect for day trips, picnics, or just lounging around the house. However, I mostly use it indoors, currently it is my main speaker for my turntable and Jazz just sounds exquisite on it. Overall, this speaker offers excellent value for the price for what it is. I highly recommend it.

I also bought the 500. That daddy HITS! This one is the in-between since they make a smaller 200. Make no mistake, this one is just as clear with some bass but won't fill as much space. I got this one for my room and bathroom since it's portable. THAT is what makes this one since. That fact that it has an internal battery and you can carry with around makes it a win. The handle is comfortable and rigid enough that you can hang it on a hook or latch. My new go to travel speaker!

[Employee of bestbuy] Tbh i didn’t know what ti expect. Down to the design, the textures and color, and the nearly perfect sound. This thing is everything you need for personal and room filling audio reproduction! I love the “on the fly” customization with the treble and bass knobs. I really like the aesthetics and materials used. It really is a show stopper, and when plugged in, it is a real powerhouse for filling a room with waves.

In my experience volume, sound quality, bass, midrange, treble in an open space were non existent in a small packaged Bluetooth speaker until I heard THE JBL Authentics series. Worth every penny, mind blown, spectacular. Undeniably the best of the best.