Skip to contentGo to Product Search
Main Content

Customer Ratings & Reviews

Model:
SRSULT10/D
SKU:
10143331
$88.00
Save $51.99
Comp. Value: $139.99
Deal ends in 15:03:57

Customer reviews

Rating 4.7 out of 5 stars with 945 reviews

Rating Filter

Rating by feature

  • Sound Quality

    Rating 4.8 out of 5 stars

  • Battery Life

    Rating 4.8 out of 5 stars

  • Range

    Rating 4.7 out of 5 stars

96%
would recommend
to a friend
The vast majority of our reviews come from verified purchases. Reviews from customers may include My Best Buy members, employees, and Tech Insider Network members (as tagged). Select reviewers may receive discounted products, promotional considerations or entries into drawings for honest, helpful reviews.
Page 3 Showing 41-60 of 945 reviews
  • Rated 5 out of 5 stars

    Nice and compact.

    |
    |
    Posted . Owned for 1 month when reviewed.
    This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.

    Someone stole the last Bose I owned that I purchased last from Best Buy. So this was a great replacement until I finish paying off the Bose on my account. I had to settle with a smaller more compact one but it was worth it. I will eventually get another Bose once again in the future.

    I would recommend this to a friend
  • Rated 4 out of 5 stars

    Looks and sounds good

    |
    |
    Posted .
    This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.

    Bought this as a speaker I can listen to while wrenching on my cars in my garage. The audio quality is impressive, but the bass is not as solid as other reviewers have made it out to be. Still though, I would definitely buy this again as it sounds good and looks good.

    I would recommend this to a friend
    • Brand response from SonyListens
      Posted .

      Hi P7000ss,


      We appreciate the feedback on the ULT FIELD 3 and are glad you find the audio quality impressive and that it works great in your garage!

      For an even stronger low-end, please ensure you press the dedicated ULT button on the speaker to activate the bass boost feature. You can also fine-tune the bass by creating a Custom EQ in the Sony | Sound Connect app.

      Thanks for choosing Sony. Best regards, Eliab. sony-global

  • Rated 5 out of 5 stars

    Sony tower speaker

    |
    |
    Posted . Owned for 2 weeks when reviewed.
    This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.

    The sound, tone and bass quality is amazing and at a great price!

    I would recommend this to a friend
    • Brand response from SonyListens
      Posted .

      Hi LoriC,

      We are immensely pleased to hear that the sound, tone, and punchy bass are hitting the mark for you! It’s fantastic to know that you're enjoying such a high-quality audio experience at a great value.

      We really appreciate you being part of the Sony family.

      Regards,
      Dominick Sony_US

  • Tech Insider Network Member

    Rated 5 out of 5 stars

    High Performance From a Small Package

    |
    Tech Insider Network Member
    Posted .
    This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.

    The Sony ULT FIELD 3 speaker is a recent addition to the ULT family of portable Bluetooth speakers. Sony has designed the ULT 3 for people on the go, and have made it easy and convenient to take along and share your music with others. The ULT 3 contains one tweeter, one woofer, and two passive radiators (one at each end) that provide a rich, full sound for music, yet you can turn the bass down for podcasts and phone calls so they aren’t “boomy” sounding when listening to speech. While it is not a stereo unit, it can be combined with other Sony ULT speakers to provide a true stereo experience using the Party Connect function. The “ULT” feature is an added bass boost that can be turned on or off using a dedicated button on the control panel that lights up when activated (the color changes depending on viewing angle). However, the ULT 3 does not have the “party lights” feature of the other, larger units in the series. The ULT 3 is designed to be waterproof, dustproof, shockproof, and rustproof to IP67 standards. That makes it suitable for outdoor use, including the beach. The exterior of the speaker is covered with a textured, woven, fabric-like covering that while being able to withstand water and dirt, also feels pleasing to the touch and offers a surface that is readily grippable. The width, or thickness, of the speaker is such that most people should be able to easily pick it up with one hand to carry it. There are two mounts on the top surface of the unit that allow the included shoulder strap to be easily attached and detached. This strap is slightly over one inch wide and allows for the speaker to comfortably hang from your shoulder. The ULT 3 has a bit of heft to it, giving it the feel of a quality item but is not overly weighty where it would be tiring to carry. The controls are on the top surface of the speaker and the markings are raised and colored to make them easy to see and use. The buttons have a nice amount of haptic feedback when pressed. While the ULT 3 is designed to sit with the long edge down, it can also be set on either end without causing issue to the sound quality. The passive radiators on the ends are also vented around their perimeter to allow for air movement when the speaker is set on end. Sony claims up to 24 hours of battery life with the volume set at “22”. According to the online “Help Guide” from Sony’s website, the maximum volume setting is “50”, so a setting of 22 is slightly less than 50 percent of maximum volume. The online Help Guide is 98 pages long and is well worth reading through as there is so much more information contained in it than what is presented in the rather rudimentary “Reference Guide” that is in the box. The pages are not full of text and diagrams, so it isn't as long as 98 pages implies. Besides the speaker unit, the ULT FIELD 3 comes with a paper Reference Guide, a paper Limited Warranty pamphlet, the aforementioned shoulder strap, and a 20 inch long charging cord. The included USB-C to USB-C charging cord is very thick and stiff, and does not offer much length limiting your charging locations to where you can safely place the ULT 3 while plugged in. There is no charging adapter included as is the case with just about every rechargeable device nowadays. It is recommended to use a charging adapter that outputs either 5 volts or 9 volts at 3.0 amps. That is the equivalent of 15 to 27 watts, or similar to the same amount that most modern smartphones want for charging. Sony claims a run time of 120 minutes after 10 minutes of charging, but makes no mention (that I could find) of the required adapter output to achieve this. The charging port is under a gasketed cover on the back side of the speaker along with a button to press to check the amount of battery power remaining. The USB-C port for charging also works in reverse, allowing you to charge your smartphone from the ULT 3’s battery. Be advised the output is only 7.5 watts which is way below what a modern smartphone will accept for charging current, so it will take awhile to charge your phone from the speaker. The Sony ULT FIELD 3 Bluetooth speaker is a stylish and well made product that is at home providing entertainment indoors or in other less than pristine environments and is capable of sloughing off grime and water splashes. Sound quality is subjective, but with the deep bass the ULT 3 is capable of, combined with the crisp highs, just about everyone will be more than pleased with its performance.

    I would recommend this to a friend
  • Rated 5 out of 5 stars

    Love it

    |
    |
    Posted . Owned for 3 weeks when reviewed.
    This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.

    Great speaker. So lightweight and small powerful sound. Could use more base, but when listening too quietly, it’s perfect. A perfect speaker that you can throw in your bag.

    I would recommend this to a friend
    • Brand response from SonyListens
      Posted .

      Hi Crom,

      Thank you for the 5-star review! We're very glad you're enjoying the Sony ULT FIELD 1 speaker. We designed it to be the perfect blend of portability and powerful sound, so it's fantastic to hear that you appreciate its lightweight and compact design.

      We're always looking for ways to improve, and we appreciate your feedback regarding the bass. We're happy to hear that the sound is perfect for your quiet listening sessions and that the speaker is a convenient companion you can easily take anywhere.

      Thank you for choosing Sony!

      Regards,
      Dominick Sony_US

  • Best Buy Employee

    Rated 5 out of 5 stars

    Get yourself one too!

    |
    Best Buy Employee
    Posted . Owned for 1 week when reviewed.
    This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.

    Great portable speaker with a good long lasting battery, great for personal sound around the park and when only you need to hear the music

    I would recommend this to a friend
    • Brand response from SonyListens
      Posted .

      Hi Netossa, You've made an excellent choice! We are truly happy to hear you are very satisfied purchase and you are enjoying its exceptional audio quality, amazing battery life, and overall features. Good to know your investment is worth it. Thanks for choosing Sony! -Jess Sony_US

  • Rated 5 out of 5 stars

    Sony ULT Boom

    |
    |
    Posted . Owned for 3 weeks when reviewed.
    This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.

    Great sound easy to carry for in and outdoors funs

    I would recommend this to a friend
    • Brand response from SonyListens
      Posted .

      Hi DianeD, Awesome! We are glad to hear that you are happy with your new speaker! Thank you for choosing Sony! -Carl Sony_US

  • Rated 5 out of 5 stars

    Sony the beast.

    |
    |
    Posted . Owned for 1 month when reviewed.
    This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.

    Awesome Sony speaker. Easy to carry.. very powerful.

    I would recommend this to a friend
    • Brand response from SonyListens
      Posted .

      Hi SalvadorCMB, It's great to hear that you find your Sony ULT FIELD 1 an awesome speaker and easy to carry. We appreciate your review. Thank you for choosing Sony! Enjoy! -Maria Sony_US

  • Tech Insider Network Member

    Rated 5 out of 5 stars

    Great design, excellent sound, decent price!

    |
    Tech Insider Network Member
    Posted .
    This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.

    The speaker’s design immediately caught my eye. The grayish-white rubber and fabric finish, coupled with the chrome branding, exudes a stylish and elegant aura. Despite its slightly larger size compared to a mid-size portable speaker, it’s surprisingly lightweight, making it easy to hold in one hand. However, it’s not suitable for clipping to a backpack while on the go, but the included shoulder strap compensates for this. The IP67 rating ensures its water resistance, and I tested it with a light shower, which it handled effortlessly. Moreover, the USB-C charging port is cleverly covered by a rubber flap, providing protection against accidental damage. After pairing the speaker and updating the software through the app (which takes a bit of time), I was pleasantly surprised by the refined audio quality. Contrary to my expectations, I didn’t find an overbearing bass, but rather punch and deep impact. The midrange is surprisingly forward and clear, while the treble soars without any harshness. Even when the ULT bass boost is enabled, the sound remains consistent. You can always adjust the sound signature with the app’s EQ. The speaker can produce impressive volume and is easily heard in a large space. I paired it with my projector, and while it’s not a stereo speaker, it managed to create a cinematic experience. The forwardness of the midrange was particularly noteworthy, as dialogue came out exceptionally clear, sometimes even surpassing the quality of an Atmos system. The battery life is impressive. Sony claims 24 hours, and I believe this estimate is accurate. I managed to drain only 40% of the battery in a workday (10 hours), and a mere 10 minutes of charging added approximately 2 hours of playtime. Additionally, it functions as a battery bank, effectively charging my phone and tablet. However, setting up the party function can be a bit confusing. I had to update my SRS-XG300 speaker’s software through Sony’s other app and perform a series of button presses. Nevertheless, once the setup was complete, I was able to place one speaker in the kitchen and another in the living room (approximately 50 feet apart) while my phone was in an office. There are a few minor issues to consider. While the speaker looks visually appealing, I’m concerned that the white finish may get dirty and the fabric fray easily, especially during outdoor activities like camping. Additionally, it lacks USB-C audio connectivity, which is a downside for some users. Lastly, I own a ULT 1 speaker, and it’s not compatible with the Party Function, which is a shame. Despite these minor concerns, I’m quite satisfied with this portable speaker. It has a great design, excellent sound quality, and offers versatility and portability at a reasonable price.

    I would recommend this to a friend
  • Rated 5 out of 5 stars

    The best purchase!

    |
    |
    Posted . Owned for 1 month when reviewed.
    This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.

    After a long time, I bought SONY again, and I really liked its new sound technology more than the other brands.

    I would recommend this to a friend
    • Brand response from SonyListens
      Posted .

      Hi ANGELV,

      That's great to hear! We're so glad you've come back to Sony and are enjoying our new sound technology. We've been working hard to create an even better audio experience, and it's fantastic to know you're hearing the difference. We appreciate you sharing your positive feedback with us.

      Thanks for choosing Sony.

      Best regards,
      Eliab sony-global

  • Tech Insider Network Member

    Rated 5 out of 5 stars

    Solid Thump out of a Medium Sized BT Speaker

    |
    Tech Insider Network Member
    Posted .
    This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.

    The Sony Ult Field 3 is an impressive portable speaker that packs a good amount of bass in a medium sized package. I picked up the Ult Field 3 because I have the original Ult speaker from Sony and really enjoy it. The only real downside I had from the first one was it could have been louder (especially at work sometimes). So seeing a bigger Ult speaker enticed me. Quick rundown. Pros Great sound quality Good Bass for a portable speaker Waterproof Comes with a should strap (though I never used it). Great Battery Life Decently Loud Cons Bass peaks at about mid volume The build quality on this speaker I've come to really like. It has rubberized buttons and a cloth like knitted material all around it. The USB-C port has a rubber seal to keep it protected from the elements. The weakest part of this design I believe is the ends where the subwoofers are exposed. These could become damaged, but they do their best to protect them by having them sunk into the case. It comes with the typical buttons you would find on a BT speaker, but also a connect button that lets you daisy chain them together. I haven't got around to using that function yet though. The sound quality on this thing is pretty great after it did a firmware update. At first I was a little underwhelmed, but after installing the Sony software on my phone it pushed a firmware update to it and the sound became much better. The bass on this pretty good up to medium volume. After that though it becomes pretty flat while the mid/highs outpace it. Its not bad, but its noticeable that it doesn't scale as well as the rest of the range. Still very happy with the sound quality and how loud this thing is. Battery life on this is great. It lasts a full workday (so 8-12 hours), and I simply charge it when I get home. I'll have somewhere between 20-40% battery life at the end of the day. The software is pretty good. It has been updated since my first Ult speaker. Now it has full EQ control, some battery saver features as well as other miscellaneous things. Overall very happy with this speaker and look forward to what they produce next.

    I would recommend this to a friend
  • Rated 5 out of 5 stars

    Best bang for the buck.

    |
    |
    Posted . Owned for 1 month when reviewed.
    This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.

    This is the best small speaker that I’ve purchased so far that has great sound period.

    I would recommend this to a friend
    • Brand response from SonyListens
      Posted .

      Hi Samsung4life, Thanks for the feedback. We're glad you like the speaker. Enjoy and thanks for choosing Sony. -Carl Sony_US

  • Rated 5 out of 5 stars

    Wireless speaker

    |
    |
    Posted . Owned for 1 month when reviewed.
    This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.

    I really like the speaker very loud. Able to use it everywhere around the house and if I take it out doors

    I would recommend this to a friend
    • Brand response from SonyListens
      Posted .

      Hi JACKIEM,

      We're so glad to hear you're enjoying the power and portability of your new ULT FIELD 1 speaker. It's fantastic to know that you can enjoy your music wherever you go, both in and out of the house. We appreciate you sharing your experience!

      Thanks for choosing Sony.

      Best regards,
      Eliab Sony_US

  • Tech Insider Network Member

    Rated 5 out of 5 stars

    Powerful and excellent sound

    |
    Tech Insider Network Member
    Posted .
    This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.

    Sony ULT FIELD 3 is a powerful portable wireless speaker. While it leans on the larger side at 10 inches long, it's surprisingly lightweight and easy to hold in one hand. The adjustable shoulder strap enhances its portability, making it convenient for on-the-go use. Designed for durability, it boasts an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance, giving me peace of mind when using it outdoor. Straight out of the box, the sound quality impresses with punchy bass and crisp highs. The ULT (Ultimate) sound mode adds extra depth to the bass, though it can sometimes overpower mids on bass-heavy tracks. Bluetooth connectivity is seamless - once paired, the speaker instantly reconnects when powered on. The built-in microphone allows for hands-free calls, adding to its versatility. The top control strip includes dedicated buttons for play/pause, volume adjustments, and the ULT mode, which lights up and changes color when activated. The recessed strap connectors are cleverly designed; they sit flush with the speaker when not in use, maintaining a sleek aesthetic. With the Sony Sound Connect app, users can personalize their listening experience using a 7-band customizable equalizer and also enjoy DJ control effects like robot sounds, vinyl scratching, and reggae horn effects. Battery life is remarkable, promising up to 24 hours of playtime, an estimate that feels entirely realistic after using it for a few days. Charging is convenient via USB-C, and the speaker doubles as a power bank for other devices. Overall, I am happy with this speaker.

    I would recommend this to a friend
  • Tech Insider Network Member

    Rated 5 out of 5 stars

    Another fantastic Sony speaker

    |
    Tech Insider Network Member
    Posted .
    This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.

    Bluetooth speakers are a dime a dozen nowadays. It’s a crowded market with lots of solid options. Honestly, very little seems to separate the various speakers you can purchase - at least on paper. I’ve owned dozens of Bluetooth speakers, and the Sony brand speakers are consistently some of the best. They are durable, loud, reliable, with long battery life. Sure, there are others that fit the bill, but they’re brand name and legacy carries a lot in my book. I have several Bluetooth speakers that I use depending on what I’m doing. When I’m going outside to be with friends and not moving around, I’ll bring a larger speaker. In my house, I have one that’s not battery powered that stays plugged in. But when I’m traveling, I don’t want to carry a large speaker and I want one that has a long battery, water/sand resistant, small and light - and with enough power. The new Sony ULT Field 1, like its previous models, fits the bill and is worthy of your consideration. In the box you’ll find a small stylish speaker with a short USB-C charging cable. It’s charged via USB-C. I plugged it in after I bought it and it was fully charged within an hour or two. I haven’t drained it and timed the length it takes to get to a full charge, but that shouldn’t be much of a concern. Setting it up is like any other Bluetooth speaker. I use a Pixel 7a, and when I turned it on, a notification appears asking me to pair it. Now, I had a little issue connecting it, but my Pixel 7a, as much as I love it, has some Bluetooth issues now and then - so I chalked it up to an issue with my phone. Once it was connected I started immediately playing music. I played a mix of classic rock, pop, hip-hop and even some podcasts. It sounded pretty good. There’s a ULT button on the speaker that replaces the “EXTRA BASS” buttons of Sony products’ past, and there’s a marked difference in Bass with it on and off. With it off the sound is a little hollow, but when on, the bass is surprisingly deep in such a small package. The buttons are simple - which is appreciative and easy to understand. They basically speak for themselves. The buttons themselves are durable with a good amount of depth so you have some physical feedback when you push them in. This speaker is surprisingly loud for its small size. I was using it in my garage while I worked out in the yard and it was plenty loud - without even getting to 100% volume. The battery life seems more than adequate to get you through a long day of use. It’s rated 12 hours and while I didn’t time it, I’ve been using it off and on for several days now and the battery is still over 50%. I have no concerns taking this out somewhere fully charged and knowing that I will choose to turn it off before needing to recharge it. I don’t use my Bluetooth speakers for calls, but I did make one call to my wife using it and she reported no sound issues. She said I sounded loud and clear, although she could tell if I moved too far away from it. I don’t purposefully test the durability of my speakers. But I do have some experience with other Sony speakers made from similar materials (the fabric material that encases the speakers). And this seems similarly made. This is a great speaker to take to the beach or pool, in fact, it can get dunked in the water and still keep on going. The ends of it are made of durable rubber that will help absorb any drops. In short, this is meant to be taken with you on your travels and adventures and is up for anything. I did, however, accidentally drop it in my garage and it was no worse for the wear - no scuffs, no dents, nothing. As a side note, a comment unrelated to the performance of the speaker itself; I wanted to add that I really like the handheld strap. It’s a unique take on the handle of the speaker. I like how it doesn’t add a lot of bulk and has some flexibility. You can pull the strap out and carry it like a small purse on a handle. You can hook a carabiner in it to attach to the outside of the bag. Now, this cord comes with a knot already tied. I haven’t tried to “untie” it, although it looks possible. So you could always take it off, but honestly I like both the aesthetics and utility of it. While I haven’t tugged on it to purposefully see if the knot would come apart, it seems pretty strong.

    I would recommend this to a friend
    • Brand response from SonyListens
      Posted .

      Hi callmeageeth, thank you for taking the time to write such an in-depth review of your experience with the all-new ULT FIELD 1. We are extremely pleased it suits your needs. Your assessment is spot on, the ULT FIELD 1 was designed with people like you in mind. Thank you very much for the perfect star review and for commending Sony! - Romeo Sony_US

  • Tech Insider Network Member

    Rated 5 out of 5 stars

    Solid portal speaker

    |
    Tech Insider Network Member
    Posted .
    This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.

    Great Solid build quality Includes carry strap Clean attractive design Straps attach very securely IP67 water rating Clear vocals Can be linked with other Sony speakers with party mode Can connect to a second Field 3 for stereo mode Surprisingly good as a speakerphone in calls Supports multipoint Bluetooth USB-C charging doesn’t require special cables Custom EQ option Battery care option extends battery lifespan Works well for resonating bass Works as a power bank to charge your phone Good battery life Not so great Occasional Bluetooth stability issues when using Prioritize Sound Quality Sound can be a bit boxy Attractive white design also shows dirt easier No stereo jack EQ doesn’t offer as much bass as Ult Mode Straps are hard to remove once attached Turning off ULT mode seems to turn off all bass The Sony ULT Field 3 has a simple, clean design. The finish of white textured cloth looks elegant, but over time it will likely collect dirt quicker than darker colors. In the box are the speaker, carry strap, and USB-C charging cable. The speaker feels solid and well built. It has a slight heft to it but is not excessively heavy. The included carry strap almost feels overbuilt and includes metal clips on the ends to attach to the straps on the speaker. The strap attaches via straps hidden behind rubber plugs on the speaker. The clips are easy to install and stay secure very well. However, removing the strap is more challenging due to barbs on the clips. While difficult, it does mean they are unlikely to ever come loose accidentally. There is a USB-C charging port and battery mode button behind a rubberized door on the back of the speaker. The battery button is for changing battery care mode and checking battery charge status. When care mode is enabled, it stops charging the battery at 90% to extend the lifespan of the battery at the cost of some runtime. There is no stereo jack, and playback is only via Bluetooth. The speaker supports party mode where it can be connected to other compatible Sony speakers. I do not have another to try this feature out. For setup you can connect as a standard Bluetooth speaker without the app. However, the core features of editing Bluetooth connection profiles and creating custom EQs will not be available. You also lose the DJ function. For Android phones you can pair via a quick tap on the speaker. If you have a second Field 3 you can connect them as a Stereo pair. You can also connect it to other compatible Sony speakers with Party Connect. First, with the ULT mode off it sounds as if the speaker has no bass at all. It can save battery life but would drastically reduce the quality of music. One place where it could be useful is if you are listening to podcasts or other speech as the bass doesn’t matter. In ULT mode the speaker is surprisingly good at producing resonating bass such as what is produced by a bass guitar. No surprise that it struggles to reproduce punchy bass with its small woofers. The overall sound is clean and precise even at high volume with no perceivable distortion. Vocals are crisp and clear, slightly bright, but not harsh. The sound is also slightly boxy but not over the top. The sound is very directional and you can tell exactly where the music comes from. From a distance, it sounds more like you are standing in front of a stage with the performer versus being in an auditorium. If you are thinking of using custom EQ to try to tweak out the boxy quality, you will find it comes at the cost of bass. While Custom EQ does offer 7 bands, it seems as though Sony has opted to limit the maximum bass to the preset ULT setting. It’s a bit of a shame as it would be nice to have the extra tunability. That said, most people would like the standard ULT profile as it makes the music feel lively and lets the vocal stand out without being offensive. Periodically while using the speaker, it would start to have issues with having a solid connection to my phone while playing music causing stutters. This is the Bluetooth profile that favors audio quality. While I could have changed Sony Connect to use the profile that prefers connection stability over audio quality the issue was not very common. It might seem strange for a Bluetooth speaker to offer speakerphone capability, but it comes in handy. If someone calls while you are listening to music, you don’t have to worry about stopping the music or disconnecting from the speaker. You can answer the call straight from the speaker and the music is paused automatically. Audio quality from the person speaking was clean and clear and people reported the echo cancelling mics sounded good. They said it sounded like a good quality speakerphone. It did pick up some background noise but not enough to interfere with the call and it made talking on speakerphone feel more natural than on the phone itself. Part of the reason is the voice of the person you are speaking to sounds far higher quality than the little speaker built into the cellphone. It seemed like a gimmick at first. It may not be required but it is surprisingly nice to have. Overall, the Sony ULT Field 3 is a solid small portable speaker and the departure from the flashy speakers from the past is appreciated. If you are looking for a small to midsize portable speaker the Field 3 is worth considering.

    I would recommend this to a friend
  • Tech Insider Network Member

    Rated 5 out of 5 stars

    Bass, Bass, baby!

    |
    Tech Insider Network Member
    Posted .
    This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.

    The ULT Field 1 was 80 percent charged right out of the box and paired very easily so I was able to start using it right away. The Sony Music Center app is not required for play, but I highly recommend it to help keep the speaker’s software up to date and for the additional performance and control functions. With the app, you can equalize the output to your liking, let it serve as ‘one-stop’ access for your music and music apps, and control the speaker remotely. This speaker does get quite loud, but I’d mostly use it in small to medium sized rooms with ceilings no taller than 12 feet, and intimate outside areas. The sound quality isn’t as loud at its loudest settings in larger rooms or too wide of an outside range, but that’s what I’d expect from what I consider a personal speaker. With its signature Sony bass, sharp midi-tones and clear treble, if you paired two of these speakers together, then that’d be a whole other story! When depressed to on, the “ULT” button definitely gives you that bass that you can really feel, especially with certain genres of music. As for battery life, I left the speaker playing music overnight starting around 7pm and at 8:30am the next morning, it was at 20 percent. I didn’t start with a full charge, so I’d say Sony’s 12-hour claim is a valid one. Standing vertically, the Sony ULT Field 1 is the same height as my 24-ounce insulated water bottle and just barely wider so I can hold it in my hand easily. In its horizontal position, it’s no wider than the width of a standard letter envelope and no taller than the average bottle of nail polish. The included adjustable (and removable) nylon cord is thick, sturdy and securely knotted so there’s no worry that it’ll wear thin or snap anytime soon. And it supports the speaker’s weight without stretching whether it’s being used as a carrying strap or hanging from a hook. Though I’d have preferred the Field 1 in black, the forest gray color looks very nice with the speaker’s design. The construction seems very durable with solid endcaps and a rubberized material protecting the radiators, the USB-C charging port, and the control buttons that I believe helps the claim that the speaker is waterproof, shockproof, and dustproof. Final verdict: I think the ULT Field 1 is a great portable speaker that’s aesthetically pleasing and well-constructed with a more than decent battery life. And the best part for me is that Sony didn’t skimp on the Bass!

    I would recommend this to a friend
    • Brand response from SonyListens
      Posted .

      Fabulous! You've certainly made a great choice, MzRose! We're extremely pleased to learn about your satisfaction with the amazing performance of your ULT FIELD 1. Thank you very much for sharing your excellent experience and for commending Sony! - Romeo Sony_US

  • Best Buy Employee

    Rated 5 out of 5 stars

    Best small portable speaker on the market

    |
    Best Buy Employee
    Posted . Owned for 3 weeks when reviewed.
    This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.

    I absolutely love this speaker it is small compact and portable. Perfect for a day at the beach or sitting by the pool. I don’t travel without this speaker.

    I would recommend this to a friend
    • Brand response from SonyListens
      Posted .

      Hi mgraham,

      Great! We're thrilled that you like the size and portability of the speaker. Thank you for choosing Sony!

      -Ralph Sony_US

  • Tech Insider Network Member

    Rated 5 out of 5 stars

    Packs a good punch!

    |
    Tech Insider Network Member
    Posted .
    This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.

    My first impression was that this speaker is built like a tank. The rubber sides make it seem bigger than it actually is, and I wondered how portable it would be. Actually, it is slightly bigger than my 16oz coffee tumbler and fits in my bookbag’s water bottle pocket, albeit a bit tight. The adjustable string allows for carrying in one hand and can be hanged virtually on any peg. I was a bit afraid to get it wet, but I tested it and am happy to report that it is safe to do so. The tactile controls are easy to figure out and the covered USB-C charging port is well protected. My Android phone immediately recognized it and was ready to go. Using the Sony app, which I strongly suggest downloading, adds more options and features, in addition to controlling the speaker remotely. Initially, the sound is pleasant and full. The speaker can get quite loud, and at its highest may lose some fidelity. I found that 40-60% is good enough for small-medium rooms. I wouldn’t recommend it for a large park gathering, but in an intimate setting, it’s great. The speaker can be placed horizontally or vertically, and this does not seem to affect sound quality much. On default, the bass has some impact, the mids are sharp, and the treble clear without being harsh. Now, this being from the “ULT” series, which I assume means “ultimate bass”, once the button is pressed, the bass becomes deeper and has that subwoofer feel. It certainly makes certain genres like hip-pop, R&B, and pop rock much more exciting. However, it does drown some tracks a bit which may require clarity such as classical, live, and ballads. In these situations, simply deactivate “ULT” and it becomes much more enjoyable. The speaker does not provide stereo sound on its own. However, you can pair two of them if stereo is needed. The battery life is pretty good. I’ve been using this for a few days and haven’t had the need to charge it. Sony says 12 hours, and I am inclined to believe it. In the end, I am very pleased with this portable speaker as it provides enough punch for small, casual outdoor and indoor settings. In addition, it is very well priced in my opinion.

    I would recommend this to a friend
    • Brand response from SonyListens
      Posted .

      Fabulous, insomniak1! You've certainly made a great choice! We are extremely pleased that it suits your needs and expectations. Thank you very much for sharing your excellent experience with your ULT FIELD 1 and for commending Sony! - Romeo Sony_US

  • Tech Insider Network Member

    Rated 5 out of 5 stars

    Amazing sound, compact and rugged design

    |
    Tech Insider Network Member
    Posted .
    This reviewer received promo considerations or sweepstakes entry for writing a review.

    This Sony ULT Field 3 portable bluetooth speaker has amazing sound, long battery life, convenient features and is rugged enough to keep you entertained at the beach, by the pool when washing your car or anywhere else where it might get wet or dirty. Highlights: * Easy power button- tap on, tap off. * Amazing sound for its size. * Great battery life (up to 24 hours) and quick charging (10 minutes for 2 hours). * Completely dust-proof and splash/water-proof. * USB-C charging. * Convenient detachable shoulder strap. * Useful features in the app. * Can synchronize multiple speakers for larger, wider sound. Room for Improvement: * ULT button is backlit when on but its iridescent label looks on when off, too. * Have to open a sealed door to charge. * An additional shorter strap would be nice for hand-carrying or hanging. * Battery status should be announced when turning on of off - currently have to open the sealed door and press the button to hear the battery level. Setup: Like most speakers of this type, setup is basically two steps; charge it up and then pair it via your device’s bluetooth settings. Unlike many other BT devices, the power button is a simple tap on, tap off versus having to hold it to turn on or off, which is both different and more convenient. You can optionally install the free Sony Connect app to see live battery status, adjust various settings, use a DJ mode to apply sound effects on top of the music and update the speaker’s firmware when available. Usage: Once charged and paired, it works like any other similar device. The bass radiators are either side and the main speakers fire out of the front, so you can position it on its bottom (sound forward and wide), on its back (sound up) or on either side (sound forward but tall). In addition to the dedicated power button, there are distinct buttons for volume up, volume down, play/pause/answer/end, Bluetooth/Sync pairing, connecting to other compatible speakers, and turning the ULT sound tuning on/off. There is audio feedback when turning the speaker on or off, but there is no battery level display. To see how much power is left, you have to either connect it to the app or open the charge door on the back and press the Battery button to have it speak the battery level. I think a useful improvement might be to speak the power level every time you turn the speaker on or off. That way, you always know how much power is left without having to do other stuff. There is a small LED above the power button (to indicate when the speaker is on), above the Bluetooth button (to indicate when the speaker is connected or pairing), above the Connect button (to indicate when it is connected to other compatible speakers to sync the music), and the ULT button (for when the ULT sound tuning is on). Unlike all the other buttons, the ULT button is flat, shiny and has the ULT logo in an iridescent color that almost looks on even when off. There is an optional setting to have the speaker remain in standby so that when your phone (or other supported music device) starts playback, the speaker will “wake up” and start playing the music. Otherwise, you have to turn on the speaker first. This optional feature is convenient but it does reduce the overall battery life of the speaker. The included carrying strap has substantial metal buckles that fit into looks on the top. The loops are behind a cool tab that is normally flat and unobtrusive but can be rotated to allow a loop out that connects with the strap’s buckles. The strap is long enough to carry the speaker on your shoulder or hang it from something like a tree, but I’d also like a shorter strap (this one doesn’t get very short even when adjusted) to carry the speaker by hand more easily. By the way, the buckles do come off if you need to remove the strap for cleaning or anything else, but it is a tad tricky to get them off (by design, I’m sure). The optional app shows the current battery level, allows for firmware updates when available, and has various other settings. There is a setting to either prioritize sound quality or bluetooth stability. When prioritizing sound quality, the sound is really epic, but you really need to keep your source device close. I had mine about 10 feet away with some metal in between and the audio kept cutting out. Even when set to prioritize Bluetooth stability, the sound is truly amazing so you can’t go wrong either way. There’s even this interesting “DJ” feature in the app where you can use your phone’s touchscreen to add sound effects on top of the music that’s playing. Scratches, voices, various sounds, etc…. Not sure I’d use it often, but it was fun to play with for a bit. With the built-in microphone, you can accept speakerphone calls on this and they really sound amazing. Great for a group of people to get on the call! The entire speaker is IP67 rated. This means that with the battery flap closed, it is essentially impervious to sand, dust and dirt. Still with that door closed, you can submerge the speaker in water up to 3 feet deep for up to 30 minutes. Get it dirty or wet with saltwater? Just hose it off and let it dry. I tried some electronic music, classical, jazz, R&B and Americana music - all sounded nuanced and clear with emphasized bass that didn’t overwhelm. Overall: This speaker truly sounds amazing, has great build quality, useful features, and is rugged enough to use just about anywhere.

    I would recommend this to a friend