Test and review of the Epicboom by Ultimate Ears

It’s almost impossible to talk about portable Bluetooth speakers without making a comparison starting with mentioning JBL. With successful models like Flip, Charge and Xtreme, they reign over a segment that always seems relevant, albeit seasonal.

However, we should not forget other competitors like Sony and Marshall or Bose or Bang & Olufsen a few notches higher in price. Let’s not forget Sonos, whose Roam and Move devices can also be connected to the home’s wireless network.

Andreas Bergsman

Andreas Bergsman

Andreas Bergsman

Then there’s Ultimate Ears, who have challenged the big names over the years with their Boom, Megaboom, Wonderboom, and now their latest powerhouse: the Epicboom.

Elegant and durable design

The Epicboom is available in two colours, black or white, and its design is very successful. The speaker sits firmly on a rubberised base and is wrapped in a rough fabric made from recycled polyester. Positioned high on the back, a carrying strap for easy carrying.

Comparable to the Sonos Move mentioned above, its dimensions are exactly the same (241 millimeters) and both are designed to resist dust, moisture or shocks. The Epicboom, which is IP67-rated, even beats its rival and its IP56 rating.

There are four function buttons on the top: power, play/pause, on/off and a button to activate its different sounds. The volume is adjusted with two clearly identified buttons on the front of the device, everything is intuitive.

Configuration and application

Setup is done via the Boom app, which lets you set a wake-up alarm, activate Outdoor Mode, pair the speaker with other compatible devices, and update the firmware when available. The interface is neat, and there’s little to complain about in terms of usability.

Andreas Bergsman

Andreas Bergsman

Andreas Bergsman

Boom offers an equalizer with a number of pre-programmed modes. You can create your own favorites and save them, but also activate the Adaptive EQ which, with the help of an internal microphone, automatically optimizes the sound depending on the environment.

It sounds interesting, but at the same time we don’t see any noticeable difference.

Performances

The equipment consists of a 4.6-inch woofer and two 1.7-inch elements for the mid and high frequencies. As for the sound resources, it is very strong, with a peak of 95 dB when the Open Air mode is activated (otherwise 94 dB). And the rendering is really good with a great feeling of presence.

However, at a certain point, close to maximum volume, the bass starts to crackle. An increase in treble and high mids is mainly noticeable for a more intense and wide diffusion. It is worth noting that the equalizer is disabled when the mode is activated.

Andreas Bergsman

Andreas Bergsman

Andreas Bergsman

An outdoor speaker should not only perform well, it should also be able to do so over time. The Epicboom can support up to 17 hours of continuous listening, at a decent volume. A clearly approved choice!

Price and availability

The Ultimate Ears Epicboom is available on the brand’s website and at Fnac for $379.99. In Belgium, you will also find it at Fnac for $379.69.

If you’re not convinced or would prefer to take a look at competing models before taking the plunge, don’t hesitate to consult our buying guide to the best Bluetooth speakers on the market.

Adaptation of the original test published on our sister site M3

Technical sheet

• 1 x mid-woofer, 2 x mid/high elements
• Bluetooth 5.2
• Compatible with Amazon Music and Apple Music
• No voice control support
• Battery life up to 17 hours
• IP67 rating
• 1.97 kg
• 241 x 162 x 119 mm