Walking away from the speaker with a phone can often disrupt the Bluetooth connection, a common inconvenience in the modern wireless era. However, with a range of up to 150 feet when in line of sight, and a significant distance even with obstacles such as walls or windows, one would need to move quite far to cause notable interruptions in connectivity.
The UE app enhances functionality by offering a multiband EQ and the capability to pair the speaker with up to 150 other Ultimate Ears speakers, which could be beneficial for large outdoor events. Additionally, it includes an Alarm feature that allows users to wake up to the last song played. A newly introduced megaphone feature enables users to speak through the speaker directly from their phone, reminiscent of intercoms from the 1980s, useful for summoning family members.
A notable feature is the ability to wake the speaker from standby mode without needing to leave a comfortable spot, akin to the convenience typically associated with Wi-Fi speakers, such as those from Sonos, but without requiring a local network. However, it’s important to note that this feature accelerates battery depletion even when the speaker is not in use, so it should be used judiciously during regular listening periods.
Regarding battery life, Ultimate Ears claims the device can last up to 15 hours on a single charge, though testing has shown a maximum of around 12 hours, with actual performance dependent on the volume level.
In terms of sound quality, the Boom 4 speaker, while compact, delivers a highly satisfactory audio experience within its physical limitations. Its dual drivers are engineered for 360-degree sound, providing a consistent auditory experience regardless of orientation, whether the speaker is placed on its side or resting on its end caps.
The speaker’s sound profile captures instrumental textures well, especially excelling from the midrange upward. Instruments like snares and percussion have a warm and robust quality, vocals and acoustic instruments have a firm presence, and there is notable clarity in the treble, particularly with foundational synths and effects.
