Sony - High Power XB72 Speaker - Black

Sony’s new GTK-XB72 Wireless Speaker System is certainly powerful, very flashy (literally!) and with make its presence known at every party. But I was disappointed by some elements which Sony could have executed far better. The Sony GTK-XB72 system is designed to provide both room-filling sound and visual excitement to parties. It is primarily designed as a Bluetooth speaker but it can also support other sources via stereo RCA connections, a built-in FM radio and a microphone input. Here are the key features: • Powerful home audio system with multiple inputs • Two 160 mm (6.3”) woofers • Three 50 mm (2”) cone tweeters (only two active at any time) • Vertical or horizontal placement (position activates appropriate tweeters) • 30 watts per channel RMS power • Total Harmonic Distortion less than 0.7% • Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity with 33 foot range, supports up to three source devices simultaneously • NFC for easy connections • Multicolor LED line lighting on front, top, sides and speakers • Two strobe lights at the top and bottom of the main speaker pair • FM tuner: 87.5 MHz – 108.0 MHz (100 kHz steps), telescoping rod antenna, 20 preset stations available via Sony Music Center app • Extra Bass: enhances bass level • Live Sound: DSP enhances 3D spacial effect • Sony Music Center app may be used to control most speaker functions • Sony Fiestable app controls lighting effects and DJ sound effects • Party chain connectivity (to other Sony speakers) • Add speaker function to create L/R stereo speaker pair • R/L RCA analog inputs for other sources • R/L RCA analog outputs • 6.35 mm (1/4”) stereo microphone input with volume control, supports karaoke mode • USB-A 2.1 Amp input and charging power output • Built-in microphone for speakerphone function • Voice guidance system • Up/down volume buttons • Up/down FM tuning • 120v AC power only, 60 watt consumption • Dimensions: 13.6” wide x 14.9” deep x 25.8” tall • Weight: 27 pounds • Two carrying handles • One year warranty Included in the box are the speaker, AC power cord, quick start guide and instructions. Setup is very easy. Just plug in the speaker, turn on the power and press the Bluetooth button to connect to your source. You can also listen to FM radio by selecting that input. Once you plug it in, the light show begins (even before you turn it on.) LED line lights which frame the speakers cycle through various colors. The two main speakers also light up and have their own color patterns. In addition, two strobe lights begin flashing near the two handles of the unit (at the top and bottom or left and right, depending upon how you have the speaker oriented.) Sony certainly put some effort into the design of the lighting effects. They do add to the party atmosphere. Also my young niece and her friends loved them so they would be a hit for children’s rooms. For normal use of the speaker you can turn off the lighting effects. The Sony Fiestable app can provide further control over the lighting (and create DJ sound effects.) However, there does not seem to be any way to turn off the strobe light separately from the LED colored lights. That is a design flaw. Using just the LED lights the effect can be soothing but the strobe negates that benefit. Using both (LED and strobe) is fine for a party but most of the time this speaker is going to be used in calmer settings where a strobe is inappropriate. How good is the sound reproduction? Unfortunately, it is only acceptable for loud, bass-heavy music that you might play at parties. For all other music the speaker just doesn’t do justice to vocals or instrumentals. I set up a small Sony Bluetooth speaker (the new XB-22) next to the big XB72 and alternated music output between the two. (See photo.) While the little XB22 could not match the bass of the XB72 its rendition of mid-range and high notes was far superior. This is really sad because I know that Sony can create great speakers. The XB72 should have been designed with a good three-way speaker set (bass, mid-range and tweeter) rather than the two woofers and bizarre set of three tweeters. Really, Sony, what did you save? $30? I cannot imagine why Sony went to the trouble to put in three cheap paper cone tweeters and a switching arrangement to direct output to only two at a time. The resulting stereo effect is just not worth the wiring. Why not just put in four decent small speakers at the corners, two of which would be true tweeters and two could be mid-range speakers? The XB72 has most of its controls on the top (the exception is the volume control for the microphone which is hidden on the back, just above where the mic would plug in.) All controls on the top are pressure sensitive buttons. (See photo.) I am definitely not a fan of these controls. First, none are lighted and in a typically dark party setting you would need to hold a light over them to tell them apart. Even in normal room lighting the identifying text is faint and not easy to read. The volume buttons (up/down) are really marginal. You have to press hard multiple times to change the volume level. If you had the speaker cranked up to a high volume the last time you used it (say at a party last night) and the next morning you want to listen to some music, the volume will resume at that extreme level and you have to scramble to reduce it before your neighbors pounds on your door with complaints. Why didn’t Sony just put a volume knob on the unit? It would be easier to use and you could find it in the dark. Similarly, the FM tuner uses up/down tuning buttons. Using them, it takes forever to get to your favorite station. You can use the Sony Music Center to preset 20 stations but that is a complicated solution to an easy problem. Again, why not just put an FM tuning knob on the XB72? And, while I am whining about shortcomings, I should mention that an AM tuner would make sense on this speaker system. I could see using it to tune into a sports event (which are usually on the AM bands) and broadcasting the game to a yard full of friends while you grill the food. Another solution to the control shortcomings would be to have a lighted LCD panel on the top with all controls accessible from it. It might cost a bit more but it would work and look very cool. There were a few other minor issues I had with the speaker, none of which are deal-breakers but all added to the frustrations I had with the design decisions made by Sony. • First, the power cord included is very short. It really should be at least twice as long (10+ feet, rather than the roughly 4 foot length provided.) • The FM radio uses a cheap chrome-plated telescoping antenna rather building a good FM antenna into the body. This antenna will likely be an early casualty at a party. • Given that the speaker will probably be used in large rooms there should be some way to mount it on a wall or some other support. You really should be able to get the speaker off the floo, particularly since it has no water resistance of any kind. Bottom line - the Sony GTK-XB72 audio system may be appropriate for a fairly narrow range of uses (e.g., blasting dance music at big parties) and for those who need that functionality I can certainly recommend it. But the severe flaws I noted above force me to give it no more than three stars. Sony, you could resolve every one of my issues with just a few changes – I hope you read this and incorporate the needed improvements in the next generation of this potentially outstanding product.

At first glance, the $350 launch price seemed a bit daunting to me, but I quickly realized that this speaker is a much better value than a lot of the smaller counter-top Bluetooth speakers offered by companies such as Bose or Marshall.  This speaker is a true beast!  Not only does it offer monstrous sound and thumping bass, but it is truly versatile.  The speaker looks great standing next to an entertainment center and also works very well as a party speaker. The speaker is easy to set up and simple to use.  While Sony tries to force the use of their Music Center App, it seems at least some of the time the typical Bluetooth pairing will get you up and running.  But, if you are having trouble pairing - you will want to connect specifically through the Sony app (which does work quite well).  The app is also the easiest way to control the various lights - providing color & flash/strobe options. It is worth noting that this speaker is not made for mounting.  If you are a DJ, or are purchasing this speaker for use at events, there is no easy way to mount to a pole or hang on a wall.  This speaker will either be standing vertically, or laying horizontally (having rubber feet for both options).  Multiple speakers can synch via Bluetooth, but the shape of the speaker tilts upwards and is not a perfect box - meaning that speakers are not easy to stack (vertically or horizontally).  Outdoor use can be cumbersome as the speaker is not water resistant and as the cord is only 5 feet long.  The volume is loud enough to set the speaker anywhere, but because this speaker puts on a light show - you actually want it to be seen.  I suggest having an extension cord handy. Interestingly, while the cabinet appears to have a tweeter in all 4 corners, there are actually only 3 (each 2 inches in size).  The 4th tweeter is non-functioning and simply makes the speaker look balanced visually.  When the speaker is standing vertically, only the top two tweeters play audio.  When the speaker is laid down horizontally, the speaker automatically adjusts moving the audio to what then becomes the top two tweeters. I tested the speaker outdoors - as I intend to use it for summer BBQs and block parties.  The speaker had absolutely no trouble filling our entire cul-de-sac with clear audio and decent bass. I truly am impressed by how well this speaker works both indoors and out.  (Just keep in mind that it is not waterproof.)  It functions well at both low & high volumes.  The live music function is a noticeable change, but can leave the vocals sounding hollow & distant.  I appreciate that it is an option, but I would assume that most people will want to leave the audio unaltered. While the Bluetooth is generally convenient, the connection quickly cuts out if it does not have direct line of sight.  30 feet of wireless range may seem like plenty of space, but at a block party, on a dance floor, or even inside the house - this is fairly limited.  Keep in mind that you will not be able to wander away from the speaker - the phone will need to stay near by.  And, this model does not have any slot to hold your phone/tablet.  The speaker also does not have a standard 3.5mm audio input.  Instead, it has the red & white component input (and output).  You may be able to use the 1/4" microphone input (if you have an adapter), but that is probably not the best option as your main audio input.  …If you don’t want to worry about wireless range (or worry about your phone ringing through the speaker in the middle of a party), using the radio is also an option that works well. The colored LED lights work well and look quite nice.  I appreciate that the LED strips are no longer located behind the wire mesh.  They are now unobstructed & nicely frame the speaker.  By default, the lights continue to cycle even when the audio is not playing, but the lights can be controlled with both a physical button and also within the app.  The white strobe lights are less impressive as they are really not all that bright.   I do wish the speaker could be powered by an internal battery – even if it was only a couple of hours, but overall I think this speaker is a great value and is conveniently versatile.  If its physical bulk does not bother you, it is worth purchasing.  And, if you want to save some money, previous models are still sold for a lot less. Pros: + Works well both indoors and out + Audio remains crisp & clear even at high volumes + Noticeably rich bass boost + NFC (Near Field Communication) feature makes pairing (via Bluetooth 4.2) very easy + Speaker automatically adjusts which two tweeters are used to play audio (depending on if the speaker is standing vertically, or lying horizontally) + 1/4" inch Microphone Input allows the speaker to be used for karaoke, or to make announcements at an event + Microphone has its own volume knob + Built in pin-hole microphone works decently for answering phone calls + Two built in Handles (top & bottom) aid in carrying + Lights are easily controlled via Sony Connect App (both color & flashing options) + Multiple speakers can connect wirelessly via Bluetooth + Light colors sync up when multiple speakers are linked + Can play via Bluetooth or from files on a USB memory stick + Multiple audio sources (phones/tablets) can be linked simultaneously Cons: - No optical input - No battery - No bracket or attachment to aid in mounting - Heavy (about 26 lbs) - No slot for holding phone, or tablet - No Remote Control (which was included in previous models) - Not water resistant or water proof - White Strobe Lights are not very bright - Speaker's shape does not allow them to be easily stacked - Cord is only 5 feet long (which can make it difficult to use outdoors) - Bluetooth range is problematic. 30 feet is only with perfect line of sight. - Live Music mode (at times) leaves music sounding hollow and vocals sounding distant & muted - Fiestable App is slow, unimpressive, and not worth using

I was hesitant to purchase because I seen a few people say the sound was bad or not loud at all. Clearly, we didn’t purchase the same item. I haven’t even tried it on MAX yet and my house shakes!!! I love it. I wish is was wireless but I got it on sale for $200. I really can’t complain for this quality. I bought this to anger my neighbors off because they’re rude. Tested it out two days ago and I LOVE all the dirty looks l get! It’s worth every penny y’all!!

I live in an 2bdr apartment. I have never played this super-loud at any time. I needed a speaker that was clear, and had great sound at low volumes. I think it has decent bass with the BassBoost button activated, as I expect a punch when I have hip-hop & rap on. I cant speak on the louder, party-like capabilities, but for the few seconds I “cranked” it, definitely loud highs, and the bass is respectable. For the price, if you can score it for $220 or less, its a no-brainer- I have realistic expectations.Looks premium, fair sound for the $$...I would buy again. Make sure to download the Sony MusicPlayer app to control the lights, power & other functions from your phone. My bluetooth played fine through walls anywhere in my apartment too. Android phone had a supereasy connection, iPhone was slightly irritable, but worked eventually. You will need aux cord to connect to tv as well. Very short power cord, which was surprising. Easy operation & well-made. It’s cool overall.

Overview: The XB72 is a more than competent portable speaker. The Good: Sound quality on this thing is tremendous. There are 6 speakers on the unit: 4 tweeters and 2 medium size ones. The bass is “extra”, as advertised. Set up is relatively easy, but be prepared to download a Sony app on your smartphone if you want to use Bluetooth. Other input options are FM radio, USB, Mic in. The LED and strobe lights on this are a nice touch and can be configured to be used with about 8 or 9 different modes, ranging from “rave” (which is crazy as the name implies) to a much more relaxed “chill” setting. The speaker is also relatively light for its size. It does need a power source, though, so be prepared to plug the 3 pronged power cord into an outlet of some type. You can party chain multiple units of this model together to create a larger soundscape, which is a great future. The Bad: The UI on Sony’s app for this device isn’t that well designed. Recommended? Yes.

When there's a party this is the speaker to have, one sounds impressive and with party chain multiple ones would rock! The “extra bass” designation definitely fits with this one, because you can definitely feel the bass. It won’t knock pictures off the wall, but if you live in an apartment your neighbors will probably complain! I haven’t heard another Bluetooth speaker at this price with this kinda bass. This speaker has no problem with rap, R&B or other bass heavy music. It’s big and it’s a little heavy but the handle makes moving it easy. I love the fact that it has a radio tuner, something that makes this more of a whole home audio system that’s easy to move. You access the fm radio thru the Sony app, which you use also to control the lights and other functions. The lights have 12 different settings or can be turned off completely. The speaker feels well built and solid. With the app you can turn the speaker off, but you can’t turn it on, this would be my one knock. Portable Bluetooth speaker...or home audio system, this one definitely blurs the line. As long as I had a power source I’d have no problem taking this one with me. Very good sound, nice bass and cool lights, this is my speaker for summer cookouts and party’s on the deck!

Great speaker! Play music pretty loud if you’re in the partying mood! It’s definitely gonna be a hit when we have people over at our house. Only downside is I wish it didn’t have to be plugged in to play music

Setup is quick and easy for GTK-XB72 Wireless Speaker with EXTRA Bass Sound from SONY. It is latest addition to SONY's EXTRA BASS range of speakers. GTX-XB72 is bigger and more powerful speaker. I was able to connect my iPhone using Bluetooth. I was amazed with sound quality from this speaker and it is very clear and filled the entire room. This speaker can be used horizontal as well as vertical mode. The built-in sensor optimizes the sound. LIVE SOUND button is superb feature and it cleverly angled speakers and DSP technology send your music to a wider area. It brings the party to life with a unique three-dimensional sound experience, creating festival vibes. The GTK-XB72 has built-in multi-colored LED line lights on the front, sides and top, pulsing speaker lights within the main body, and a flashing strobe light for added impact. The perfect way to create a club-like atmosphere. I have downloaded the SONY Music center app from app store. There are lot of nice features to adjust audio settings, select your favorite playlists from your phone or a USB, and cue the next song without being tied to the sound system. Anther awesome feature is Fiestable app puts you in charge of the light colors and lets you activate DJ and karaoke modes using your smartphone. After installing the app, just tap Party Light via Fiestable and your phone's display will even start to mirror the sound system's lighting effects, flashing and changing color in time with the music. I have connected 3 different phones and it worked flawlessly. There is no limit to the number of smartphones. It is possible to connect multiple GTX-XB72 speakers to add extra power to your sound system with Wireless Party Chain via Bluetooth® technology. with one device to be the ‘Party Host’ and music can be synced in other speakers. GTX-XB72 has built-in FM radio tuner. USB port can be used to connect USB devices with audio files which can be played. It supports MP3 and WMA formats. The built-in microphone is very useful for hands-free calls. It will automatically divert the call from the phone to speaker using Bluetooth. The built-in handle is very useful to take this speaker anywhere inside home or outdoor parties. I have tried Karaoke on this speaker and quality is pretty good. The audio input allows you to connect portable MP3 players without Bluetooth connectivity. GTX-XB72 is definitely a great addition to any house and it will pump up the party mood with beautiful LED lights and outstanding sound.