Bose SoundLink Max Review: Powerful Sound, Robust Design

The robust, go-anywhere wireless speaker offers a bold and assertive sound. Its performance is impressive, making its few minor shortcomings easy to overlook. If you want a portable party with a bang, look no further.

A quick review of the Bose Soundlink max

The Bose SoundLink Max is the biggest and toughest model in the SoundLink series. This well-reviewed speaker boasts a rugged design and impressive battery life, nearly lasting 24 hours.

Its IP67 rating ensures durability, while silicone construction adds resilience against knocks. A carry handle can be swapped for a shoulder strap, making it highly portable.

Outdoors, the SoundLink Max proves to be an enjoyable companion. Its sound is powerful yet agile, offering a slightly stereo experience. It delivers a punchy performance without being overly blunt.

It would be near perfect and among the best Bluetooth speakers available if it could reveal more fine details.

Bose Soundlink max review: price and launch date

Released on June 4, 2024
Priced at $399 / £399 / AU$599

The Bose SoundLink Max hit the market in early June 2024, priced at $399 / £399 / AU$599.

While it’s a hefty price for a speaker without smart features or Wi-Fi, the SoundLink Max offers other significant benefits. Its impressive performance and rugged design compensate for the lack of advanced functionalities.

Bose Soundlink max review: specifications

Weight: 2.13 kg
Dimensions: 120mm (H) x 265mm (W) x 105mm (D)
Battery Life: Up to 20 hours
Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3, supports SBC, AAC, and aptX Adaptive codec
Drivers: Two 89mm transducers, one 23mm transducer, two 104x79mm passive radiators
Aux-In: Yes
Charger Port: USB-C
Microphone: None
Waterproof Rating: IP67

The Bose SoundLink Max offers impressive features and performance in a durable, portable package.

Sose Soundlink max review: key features

The Bose SoundLink Max features two 89mm transducers, one 23mm transducer, and two 104x79mm racetrack passive radiators. It supports Bluetooth 5.3 with compatibility with SBC, AAC, and aptX Adaptive codec.

This Bluetooth speaker includes Class D amplification for powerful audio output. While it primarily uses Bluetooth 5.3 for wireless audio, it also has a 3.5mm analog input for wired connections.

Audio is amplified by Class D power and delivered through a front-facing driver array. This array includes two 89mm transducers and a 23mm transducer. Additionally, two 104x79mm passive radiators are positioned at each end, behind perforated aluminum grilles.

With Bose’s SimpleSync technology, the SoundLink Max can integrate into a multi-room system with other compatible Bose speakers. It connects effortlessly with Bose soundbars or smart speakers.

The rear USB-C port charges the battery and can also power your phone if the speaker has enough charge.

Bose Soundlink max review: design overview

IP67 Dust and Moisture Protection
20-Hour Battery Life
Available in Two Finishes

The SoundLink Max measures 120 x 265 x 105mm and weighs 2.13kg, making it larger and heavier than most portable wireless speakers. However, its combination of aluminum and silicone materials, along with a rope-and-silicone carry handle, makes it easy to move. You can swap the handle for different colors (£25, $31, AU$47) or an over-the-shoulder strap (£45, $58, AU$85).

The silicone design helps the speaker absorb shocks but tends to collect dust and fingerprints. Cleaning it can be challenging. The battery lasts up to 20 hours unless played at maximum volume. Charging from flat to full takes five hours via the USB-C port.

The SoundLink Max’s IP67 rating ensures durability in various environments. Controls on top include power, Bluetooth pairing, play/pause, volume, and a shortcut button. The Bose control app lets you assign the shortcut button to switch to the 3.5mm input or resume Spotify playback.

The app also offers EQ adjustments, volume control, connection management (connecting up to two devices simultaneously), and access to software and firmware updates.

Bose Soundlink max review: audio performance

Punchy, Full-Scale Sound
Agile Performance
Could Use More Detail

Bose has prioritized low-frequency power and presence in the SoundLink Max, anticipating its primary use outdoors. This speaker delivers robust, assertive bass that stands out.

Despite its power, the SoundLink Max is not just about brute force. For example, it handles Aphex Twin’s “Isoprophlex (Slow)” with precision, ensuring the bass stays in its lane and doesn’t muddy the midrange. The bass is controlled and accurate, adding complexity to its performance.

The midrange is open and distinct, capable of holding its own against the powerful bass. The high frequencies have an authentic bite and shine, matching the low end in attack without becoming harsh, even at high volumes.

The SoundLink Max offers a tonally consistent experience across the entire frequency range. It creates a convincing soundstage, although true stereo separation is minimal. It handles dynamics well but could better distinguish between quiet and loud passages.

Where the SoundLink Max could improve is in detail retrieval. While it captures significant details in recordings, finer nuances can get lost. This doesn’t affect the overall enjoyment, but listeners familiar with specific tracks might notice missing subtleties. For instance, in The Flaming Lips’ “The Spark That Bled,” some intricate details may not come through.

Bose Soundlink max review: value for money

Priced just under £400 / $400 / AU$600, the Bose SoundLink Max might seem expensive for a Bluetooth speaker without smart features. However, it offers excellent value when evaluated on its own merits.

The SoundLink Max is well-built and finished with high-quality materials that promise durability and a premium feel. It is designed to perform reliably in various environments.

This speaker delivers powerful, convincing sound and can play for hours on end. If you can overlook its limited functionality, the SoundLink Max is indeed a great value.