Weddings can put your mental state and budget to the test, yet for a product tester, they’re exceptional for audio equipment evaluation. This year, I tied the knot with my wife at a relative’s residence, a stunning and unforgettable location. However, this required us to arrange everything on our own, including a speaker for the event.
As seasoned hosts and product evaluators, we own various Bluetooth speakers, but they’re ideal for gatherings of 10 to 20 attendees, not 150. We required a party speaker with wireless microphone support for the ceremony and cocktail reception. That’s when I came across the new JBL PartyBox 520.
The 520 is JBL’s newest and priciest party speaker, substantial yet wireless and portable. From our bachelorette celebration to our outdoor nuptials, the JBL PartyBox 520 ensured the atmosphere remained lively all weekend.
The audio quality is clear and powerful, whether inside or outside. The JBL PartyBox 520 provided excellent sound in the bar’s back room or amidst my mother-in-law’s gardens. Regardless of its placement, the audio was distinct and well-balanced. In the low-ceilinged bar for our bachelorette event, the volume filled the area without sounding tinny or distorted. Outside, the speaker still provided smooth audio.
In the garden, the sound was exquisite, pairing well with classic tracks like “God Only Knows” by the Beach Boys and contemporary hits like “Love You For A Long Time” by Maggie Rogers. Even with 150 guests conversing during cocktail hour, the speaker was loud enough for everyone to enjoy the music. It features adjustable treble, bass, and echo for serious audiophiles and a bass boost for enthusiasts. You can connect multiple 520 speakers using Auracast for larger gatherings.
It operates wirelessly for hours and is waterproof. For our outdoor wedding, we required a wireless speaker to prevent tripping hazards and one sufficiently powerful to fill the space without overwhelming sound. The PartyBox 520 fulfilled all those requirements, serving as the largest Bluetooth speaker I’ve encountered. It lasts up to 15 hours on a complete charge, offering reassurance that it wouldn’t cut out during the vows. Its IPX4 waterproof rating means it’s splash-proof, capable of handling light rain.
With wireless microphones, it transforms into the ultimate karaoke system. We needed a speaker that could accommodate wireless mics for our ceremony and karaoke session. JBL’s PartyBox mics connect effortlessly to the PartyBox speakers, though these must be purchased separately. The JBL PartyBox 520 comes with auxiliary inputs for a receiver, making mic usage easy without feedback issues. During our ceremony, the audience heard our officiant distinctly. Multiple mics can be utilized at once, ideal for karaoke at our bachelorette celebration. Occasionally, there was sharp feedback, so take care when using them close to each other.
Enhanced lights and sound effects create a real festive atmosphere. The PartyBox 520 includes a built-in light display that synchronizes with the music, putting on a light show. If you find it distracting, it can be turned off. It also features three built-in sound effects for added entertainment.
Despite having wheels, it’s a hefty lift. The PartyBox 520 isn’t a lightweight portable Bluetooth speaker. It stands 30 inches tall and weighs 64.8 lbs. With wheels and a handle like a suitcase, it rolls easily on smooth surfaces but can struggle on grass or uneven ground. Moving it can be difficult.
The price represents an investment. Priced at $879.95, the PartyBox 520 is indeed an investment. There are cheaper alternatives if you’re in the market for a large Bluetooth speaker. However, if you’re looking for a party speaker that also acts as a sound system, it’s a worthwhile investment.
Is the JBL PartyBox 520 worth the cost? If you’re aiming to invest in a sound system for celebrations, the JBL PartyBox 520 is an excellent choice and the finest party speaker I’ve evaluated. It features an impressive light display, mic compatibility, and outstanding sound with customizable settings. If you don’t require a heavy-duty solution, more affordable and portable options like the JBL PartyBox 320 are available, weighing 36 pounds as opposed to 64.