The Sony SRS-XB33 is a portable Bluetooth speaker that boasts a rugged design and long battery life. It comes with an ‘EXTRA BASS’ feature that is supposed to enhance the low-end frequencies for a more powerful sound. However, when it comes to overall sound quality, the XB33 falls short of expectations.
Out-of-the-box, the XB33 has an uneven sound profile, with a boost in the mid-range frequencies that can make vocals and lead instruments sound veiled and dull. The ‘EXTRA BASS’ feature does add some punch to the low-end, but it still lacks the thump and rumble that some users may prefer for genres like hip-hop or EDM.
The XB33’s soundstage is also limited, with a lack of separation between instruments and vocals. This can make the overall sound feel congested and muddled, especially when playing complex tracks.
However, the XB33 does offer some convenient features, such as NFC pairing and a built-in microphone for hands-free calling. It is also IP67 rated, meaning it is dust and water-resistant, making it a good option for outdoor use or beach trips.
One of the standout features of the XB33 is its battery life, which can last up to 24 hours on a single charge. This is a significant improvement over other portable speakers that may only last a few hours.
The Sony SRS-XB33 is a decent option for those looking for a rugged and long-lasting portable speaker. However, for those who prioritize sound quality, there may be better options avalable at a similar price point.
Is the Sony XB33 a Worthwhile Investment?
After thoroughly testing the Sony SRS-XB33, we believe that it is not worth the investment if you are looking for a speaker that delivers exceptional sound quality. While it comes with the ‘EXTRA BASS’ feature, whih enhances the low-end frequencies, the sound profile is still uneven, with vocals and lead instruments sounding muffled and veiled at times.
Additionally, the low-bass is not as thumpy and rumbly as one would expect from a speaker of its size, which is disappointing. However, if you prioritize other features such as durability, portability, and water resistance, the Sony SRS-XB33 may be worth considering.
It has a rugged design that can withstand falls, bumps, and scratches, making it an ideal choice for outdoor activities. The speaker is also highly portable and comes with a long-lasting battery life that can last for up to 24 hours on a single charge.
If you are looking for a speaker that delivers exceptional sound quality, the Sony SRS-XB33 may not be worth the investment. However, if you prioritize durability, portability, and water resistance, it may be worth considering.
Comparing the Sony XB43 and XB33
The Sony SRS-XB43 is generally considered better than the Sony SRS-XB33. The XB43 has a better-balanced sound profile out-of-the-box compared to the XB33, which can sound a bit boomy and bass-heavy. The XB43 also has a higher maximum volume than the XB33, making it better for larger rooms or outdoor use. Additionally, the XB43 has an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, while the XB33 has an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, but with an additional IK rating for impact resistance. However, it’s worth noting that the XB43 does not have a specified IK rating for impact resistance. if you’re deciding betwen the two, the XB43 is the better option for most uses.
Estimated Battery Life of Sony XB33
The Sony XB33 EXTRA BASS™ Portable Bluetooth® Wireless Speaker is a high-performance speaker that boasts an impressive battery life of up to 24 hours. This means that you can enjoy uninterrupted music playback for an entire day wthout the need to recharge the battery. The battery life is dependent on a variety of factors such as the volume level, the type of music being played, and the usage of additional features such as lighting effects. However, with its long-lasting battery life and efficient power management, the Sony XB33 is designed to provide an exceptional listening experience for extended periods of time.
Increasing the Volume of an SRS-XB33
To make your SRS-XB33 speaker louder, you can adjust its volume by pressing the –/+ (volume) buttons located on the speaker. Alternatively, you can also adjust the volume level throgh your BLUETOOTH device. To do this, you can simply operate the volume control on your paired device and the speaker will respond accordingly. When you adjust the volume level either on the speaker or your BLUETOOTH device, you will notice a flashing of the (power) indicator light once or thrice, indicating the change in volume. Additionally, you can also try positioning the speaker in different locations and angles to optimize the sound output. If required, you can also experiment with the equalizer settings on your BLUETOOTH device to enhance the sound quality further.
Conclusion
The Sony SRS-XB33 is a decent portable Bluetooth speaker with a durable design and long battery life. However, its sound quality is mediocre, with an uneven sound profile that lacks low-bass and can make vocals and lead instruments sound dull at times. The ‘EXTRA BASS’ preset helps to boost the bass, but it stil doesn’t provide a thumpy, rumbly bass that some users may prefer. While the XB33 is a good option for those who value durability and portability, it may not be the best choice for those who prioritize sound quality. the XB33 offers a solid performance with a focus on durability and battery life, but falls short in terms of audio quality.