JBL is cranking up the volume in several ways with its flagship party speaker: The new PartyBox Ultimate 2 delivers 1,500 watts, features larger 10-inch woofers, and is the first PartyBox to include a touchscreen. It also features AI-powered karaoke, a more elaborate light show, and extensive Wi-Fi streaming capabilities. Starting October 6, the XXL speaker will cost 1,599 euros.
Even its predecessor, introduced in 2023, was anything but understated, with 1,100 watts, two 9-inch woofers, and a weight of 39.5 kilograms. The JBL PartyBox Ultimate 2 now boasts an amplifier output increase of 400 watts—a solid 36 percent. In contrast, the price has risen by a relatively modest 100 euros compared to the original MSRP of the first PartyBox Ultimate.
JBL PartyBox Ultimate 2 with a new three-way system
To achieve this performance boost, JBL didn’t just upgrade the amplifiers. The completely redesigned three-way architecture combines two 30-millimeter PEN tweeters with sound guides from the JBL Professional lineup, two 12.4-centimeter midrange drivers, and two 26.4-centimeter woofers. Two bass-reflex ports support low-frequency reproduction. The specified frequency response ranges from 28 hertz to 20 kilohertz at minus 6 decibels; the previous model’s range was 30 hertz.
AI Sound Boost continuously analyzes the music signal and is designed to maximize the available volume while minimizing distortion. Naturally, the best way to assess how well the algorithm manages the balancing act between deep bass, volume, and compression is through a listening test. In the significantly smaller JBL PartyBox 520, AI Sound Boost already impressed with rich, controlled bass and high volume stability.
Weighing nearly 48 kilograms and still without a rechargeable battery
The term “portable” should be interpreted broadly when it comes to this new top-of-the-line model. The PartyBox Ultimate 2 measures approximately 46.7 × 105.3 × 49.3 centimeters and weighs 47.7 kilograms. This makes it a good eight kilograms heavier than its predecessor. Larger, sturdier casters and an ergonomic handle are designed to make it easier to transport.
The flagship model still doesn’t have a rechargeable battery. It’s powered by a power cord. If you really want to party far from a power outlet, you’ll find a less powerful but significantly more portable alternative within the JBL family—such as the PartyBox 520, which features a replaceable battery. The Teufel Rockster 2 we tested takes a completely different approach: This competitor, which also weighs over 40 kilograms, features a removable battery and is geared more toward mobile sound reinforcement applications.
The volume control becomes a touchscreen
The most striking new feature on the top panel is the volume control with a built-in touchscreen. It allows you to control music, sound, lighting, and main settings right from the speaker. The display also shows the currently playing track and the selected lighting effect. JBL calls it the first PartyBox with a built-in touchscreen.
For karaoke nights, the Ultimate 2 features EasySing AI Vocal Removal. This feature uses AI to reduce the lead vocals in any song while preserving the backing vocals. This means you aren’t limited to a specific karaoke catalog. In addition, JBL has integrated several party games into the user interface.
Light show now features floor projection
JBL also takes it up a notch visually. Ripple-wave effects stretch across the entire front, while multi-layered lighting is designed to add depth and movement. A new feature is a floor projection that extends the light show beyond the speaker enclosure into the room. Effects, colors, and other features can be controlled via the JBL One app.
The enclosure is splash-proof according to IPX4. It can withstand brief splashes, but the speaker is not designed for prolonged heavy rain or use right next to a pool. According to JBL, the company uses, among other things, recycled plastic and a tweeter magnet made from recycled material; the packaging is made of FSC-certified paper and is printed with soy-based ink.
Wi-Fi 6, Auracast, USB-C, and XLR
When it comes to connectivity, the PartyBox Ultimate 2 is practically a streaming and sound system hub. Via Wi-Fi 6, it supports AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Roon Ready, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, and Qobuz Connect. Bluetooth LE Audio and Auracast enable wireless connection to mobile devices and other compatible speakers.
Music can also be streamed losslessly via USB-C. There’s an optical digital input for TVs and karaoke setups, and an XLR line input for DJ equipment. According to the technical specifications, analog aux, microphone, and guitar inputs are also included. This makes the selection of inputs much more practical than on many speakers that rely solely on Bluetooth.
And what about Dolby Atmos?
There’s one notable omission in the announcement: With the previous model, JBL prominently highlighted Dolby Atmos via Wi-Fi. In the press release and the detailed feature list for the PartyBox Ultimate 2, however, the 3D audio format is no longer mentioned. JBL leaves it open as to whether Dolby Atmos has actually been omitted or is simply missing from the current documentation. For this reason, we are not listing it as a feature of the new model for the time being.
Technical Specifications of the JBL PartyBox Ultimate 2
| Characteristic | Specification |
|---|---|
| Output Power | 1,500 watts |
| Speakers | 2 × 26.4-cm woofers, 2 × 12.4-cm midrange drivers, 2 × 30-mm PEN tweeters with sound guides |
| Frequency response | 28 Hz to 20 kHz (−6 dB) |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth LE Audio, Auracast |
| Streaming | AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Roon Ready, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz Connect |
| Inputs | USB-C, optical, XLR line-in, aux-in, microphone, guitar |
| App | JBL One |
| Protection Class | IPX4 |
| Dimensions (W × H × D) | 46.7 × 105.3 × 49.3 cm |
| Weight | 47.7 kg |
| Power supply | Mains power, no battery |
| Price | 1,599 euros / 1,599.95 CHF |
| Availability | Starting October 6, 2026 |
Price and Availability
The JBL PartyBox Ultimate 2 will be released on October 6, 2026, for 1,599 euros or 1,599.95 Swiss francs. This clearly positions it above the typical battery-powered party boxes and more as a portable all-in-one sound system for large rooms and events. Only a review will reveal whether the extra power, the new three-way system, and AI Sound Boost justify the hefty price tag in terms of sound quality.
Further information: JBL
More on this topic in STEREO GUIDE:
- JBL PartyBox 520 Review: Loud, Portable, and Surprisingly Balanced
- Teufel Rockster 2 Review: How Much Party Is in This Monster Speaker from Berlin?
- The Best Large Bluetooth Speakers and Party Boxes
