Introduction
The Ultimate Ears Epicboom represents the pinnacle of portable Bluetooth speaker design, combining powerful audio performance with rugged durability in a waterproof package. As the successor to the popular Boom series, the Epicboom delivers room-filling sound, an impressive 17-hour battery life, and the robust construction that Ultimate Ears has become known for. Whether you’re hosting a pool party, heading to the beach, or simply enjoying music in your backyard, this speaker is engineered to deliver exceptional audio in any environment.
Design and Build Quality
The Epicboom maintains the cylindrical shape that has become synonymous with the UE brand, but with refined proportions that optimize both acoustics and portability. Measuring approximately 7.3 inches tall with a 3.5-inch diameter, the speaker fits comfortably in backpack side pockets while still delivering substantial sound output.
Construction Features:
- Premium fabric covering: Available in a range of colors including blacks, blues, and earth tones, the acoustic fabric mesh provides both protection and style
- IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating: Can be submerged in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes
- Floats on water: Unlike many competitors, the Epicboom actually floats, making it perfect for pool parties
- Drop-tested durability: Built to survive drops from up to 1 meter, though the construction suggests it could handle more
The speaker features large, easy-to-press volume buttons on the front for quick adjustments without reaching for your phone. The top houses power, Bluetooth pairing, and the Outdoor Boost button, while the bottom includes a built-in mounting loop for attaching to bikes, backpacks, or other gear.
Audio Performance
The Epicboom’s audio capabilities truly set it apart from the portable speaker competition:
Drivers and Output:
- Two 45mm full-range drivers
- Two 80mm x 65mm passive radiators for enhanced bass
- Maximum sound level of 93 dBC (louder than the Boom 3)
- Frequency range of 60 Hz to 20 kHz
Sound Profile:
The speaker delivers well-balanced audio that handles various music genres admirably. Bass is punchy and present without overwhelming mids and highs. The midrange clarity ensures vocals and instruments remain distinct, while the highs are crisp without becoming harsh at high volumes.
Outdoor Boost Mode:
A dedicated button activates Outdoor Boost, which adjusts the EQ for open-air listening. This mode increases midrange projection and overall volume, compensating for the acoustic challenges of outdoor environments. The difference is noticeable and valuable when listening in large outdoor spaces.
360-Degree Sound:
True to UE tradition, the Epicboom delivers 360-degree omnidirectional audio. This means everyone around the speaker gets the same listening experience—no dead zones or sweet spots.
Battery Life and Charging
The Epicboom boasts an impressive 17 hours of battery life at moderate volume levels. Real-world testing suggests this estimate holds true, with the speaker easily lasting through full-day beach trips, pool parties, or camping weekends.
Battery life varies with volume and features:
- Moderate volume with standard EQ: 17 hours
- Maximum volume with Outdoor Boost: Approximately 8-10 hours
- Charging time: Approximately 3 hours via USB-C
The USB-C charging port supports faster charging than previous generations, getting you back to music more quickly.
Connectivity and Features
Bluetooth Performance:
- Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity
- Range of approximately 55 meters (180 feet) line of sight
- Can connect to two source devices simultaneously
- NFC tap-to-pair for Android devices
PartyUp Feature:
Like other UE speakers, the Epicboom connects with up to 150 UE speakers via the BOOM app. Create synchronized sound systems for massive parties or spread speakers throughout your home for whole-home audio.
BOOM App Features:
The free Ultimate Ears BOOM app unlocks additional functionality:
- Customizable EQ with preset options (Signature, Bass Jump, Crab Oven, Game/Film/Custom)
- PartyUp pairing management
- Remote on/off control
- Timer settings
- Firmware updates for future improvements
Built-in USB Charge-Out:
A USB-A port on the speaker allows you to charge your phone or other devices from the speaker’s battery—valuable when you’re away from power outlets.
Durability Testing
The Epicboom is built for adventure:
Water Resistance:
The IP67 rating means complete protection against dust and water ingress. Users report using the speaker in showers, during rainstorms, at pool parties, and even fully submerged in hot tubs without issues. The floating design ensures it won’t sink if it goes overboard.
Dust and Dirt Protection:
Sealed ports and connections prevent dust and sand from damaging internal components. Beach use is explicitly supported, making this an excellent choice for coastal vacations.
Shock Resistance:
While Ultimate Ears doesn’t publish specific drop-test specifications, the robust construction and fabric covering suggest good protection against impacts. The speaker should handle the occasional knock or tumble without damage.
Portability Considerations
Weighing approximately 2 pounds (0.9 kg), the Epicboom strikes an excellent balance between audio performance and portability:
Carrying Options:
- Built-in mounting loop for straps or carabiners
- Fits in standard cup holders
- Compact enough for beach bags and backpacks
- Lightweight enough for extended carrying
The Perfect Portable Speaker:
The Epicboom successfully achieves what many portable speakers struggle with—delivering powerful, high-quality audio in a genuinely portable package. It’s equally at home at a backyard BBQ, on a hiking trail, or in a hotel room.
Comparison with Competitors
Versus JBL Boombox 3:
The Epicboom is more portable while still delivering comparable bass response. The JBL offers higher maximum volume but at the cost of significant weight.
Versus Bose Portable Home Speaker:
Bose provides Wi-Fi connectivity and voice assistant integration, but the Epicboom offers better waterproofing and floatation.
Versus Sonos Move 2:
The Sonos delivers superior sound quality and Wi-Fi integration but costs significantly more and isn’t as rugged.
Versus UE Boom 3:
The Epicboom provides meaningfully better bass, longer battery life, and USB charging capability while maintaining similar portability.
Sound Quality Deep Dive
For a portable speaker, the Epicboom produces remarkably full sound:
Low Frequencies:
The dual passive radiators deliver bass that you can feel, not just hear. Bass guitars, kick drums, and low synth notes come through with impact and authority. It’s not quite the bass of a dedicated subwoofer, but impressive for the size.
Midrange:
Vocals remain clear and present across all volume levels. The speaker handles acoustic tracks, podcasts, and vocal-heavy pop equally well. No muddiness or distortion even at high volumes.
High Frequencies:
Cymbals, high hats, and string instruments have sparkle without harshness. The speaker avoids the brittleness that plague cheaper portable options.
Volume and Dynamics:
The Epicboom gets significantly louder than most portable speakers, easily filling large rooms or outdoor spaces. Dynamics remain intact even at maximum volume—you won’t notice compression or distortion as the speaker reaches its limits.
Price Point and Value
The Epicboom typically retails for approximately $199-229, positioning it in the premium portable speaker category. While not the cheapest option, the combination of features, durability, and audio performance justifies the investment.
Value Considerations:
- Replaces need for multiple speakers (portable + outdoor + shower)
- Built to last years, not months
- Premium materials and construction quality
- Excellent warranty support from Ultimate Ears
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Outstanding 17-hour battery life
- Powerful, balanced audio with strong bass
- IP67 waterproof and floats on water
- Excellent range and connectivity
- PartyUp feature for massive sound systems
- USB-C charging with USB-A charge-out
- Outdoor Boost mode for outdoor listening
- Durable, adventure-ready construction
Cons:
- Premium price point
- No Wi-Fi connectivity
- No built-in voice assistant
- Relatively heavy compared to smaller portable options
- Companion app required for some features
Conclusion
The Ultimate Ears Epicboom represents the complete package for anyone seeking a premium portable Bluetooth speaker. It successfully combines the durability and waterproofing that outdoor adventures demand with the audio quality that music lovers expect.
Whether you’re a beach regular, pool party host, outdoor enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates good sound anywhere, the Epicboom delivers on its promises. The combination of 360-degree audio, 17-hour battery life, waterproof construction, and floating design makes it the most versatile premium portable speaker available.
For those willing to invest in quality audio gear, the Epicboom provides years of listening pleasure through countless adventures. It’s not just a speaker—it’s a passport to better sound wherever your travels take you.
Rating: 4.8/5
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products we have thoroughly researched and believe will provide value to our readers.