When Sony's ULT FIELD 1 ($89.99) and the Soundcore Boom 2 SE ($99.00) hit the market in early 2024, they brought fresh approaches to portable audio. Let's explore how these speakers stack up and which might be right for you.
Modern portable speakers have evolved far beyond simple battery-powered boxes that play music. They're now sophisticated audio devices that combine durability, smart features, and impressive sound quality. The key is finding the right balance for your needs.
The Soundcore Boom 2 SE takes a decisive lead in bass reproduction. Its 50W subwoofer and BassUp 2.0 technology (which dynamically adjusts low frequencies based on the music) delivers noticeably more powerful low-end punch. In contrast, the Sony ULT FIELD 1 offers a more modest bass response, even with its ULT mode engaged. While Sony's ULT feature does enhance low frequencies, it's more about balance than raw power.
Sony's approach focuses on clarity and balance. The ULT FIELD 1's Sound Diffusion Processor (which spreads audio more evenly across a space) creates an impressive soundstage for its size. The speaker handles acoustic music and vocals particularly well, with clean mids and detailed highs.
The Boom 2 SE, with its 30W total output (expandable to 80W with BassUp), simply plays louder and fuller. Its 2.1 channel design, using dual 15W tweeters and that powerful subwoofer, creates more immersive sound. However, this comes at the cost of some subtlety in quieter passages.
Both speakers represent different philosophies in durability. The ULT FIELD 1 boasts an IP67 rating (completely dustproof and waterproof up to 1 meter for 30 minutes) plus military-grade shock resistance. This makes it virtually adventure-proof.
The Boom 2 SE takes a slightly different approach with IPX7 waterproofing (can handle immersion but isn't rated for dust) and adds flotation capability - perfect for pool parties. Its larger size houses more features but sacrifices some portability.
Battery life shows a clear distinction between these models. The Soundcore delivers an impressive 18-24 hours of playback, depending on volume and feature usage. The Sony manages about 12 hours at moderate volumes, dropping to 3-4 hours with high volume and ULT mode engaged.
This difference reflects their design priorities - Sony focused on compactness and sound quality, while Soundcore prioritized endurance and feature set.
In practical use, these speakers serve different scenarios best. The ULT FIELD 1 excels in intimate settings - think backyard gatherings, camping trips, or personal listening. Its balanced sound and rugged build make it perfect for adventurous users who prioritize audio quality over sheer volume.
The Boom 2 SE shines at larger gatherings. Its powerful output, light show features, and ability to connect with other speakers make it the life of the party. The power bank feature has saved many a dead phone battery at outdoor events.
At $89.99, the Sony offers premium build quality and refined sound in a compact package. The $99.00 Soundcore delivers more features, power, and battery life for a slight premium. Both represent good value, but for different users.
Choose the Sony ULT FIELD 1 if you:
Go for the Soundcore Boom 2 SE if you:
The decision ultimately comes down to use case. The Sony excels as a personal audio companion, while the Soundcore is built for social situations. Both represent the latest in portable speaker technology, but serve different needs within the category.
For my money, the Sony makes more sense for daily use and travel, while the Soundcore is the better choice for entertaining. The extra features on the Boom 2 SE are genuinely useful, not just gimmicks, but they come at the cost of portability. Consider your typical listening scenarios carefully when making your choice.
| Sony ULT FIELD 1 | Soundcore Boom 2 SE |
|---|---|
| Power Output - Determines maximum volume and sound fullness | |
| Standard output (exact watts unknown) | 30W standard, up to 80W with BassUp 2.0 |
| Speaker Configuration - Affects sound quality and dispersion | |
| Front-facing woofer and tweeter with dual passive radiators | 2.1 channel: 50W subwoofer + dual 15W tweeters |
| Battery Life - Critical for extended use without charging | |
| 12 hours max, 3-4 hours at high volume | Up to 24 hours at moderate volume |
| Waterproof Rating - Important for outdoor and poolside use | |
| IP67 (waterproof and dustproof) | IPX7 (waterproof only, floatable) |
| Additional Protection - Matters for durability and longevity | |
| MIL-STD 810H shock resistance | Standard impact resistance |
| Special Audio Features - Enhances listening experience | |
| Sound Diffusion Processor, ULT bass boost, Echo cancellation | BassUp 2.0, 9-band EQ, PartyCast 2.0 (100 speaker sync) |
| Extra Features - Adds versatility and value | |
| Multi-way carrying strap | LED light show, Power bank function |
| Price - Value consideration | |
| $89.99 | $99.00 |
| Best Use Case - Helps match to your needs | |
| Personal listening, travel, outdoor adventures | Parties, larger gatherings, poolside entertainment |
| Sound Signature - Affects listening enjoyment | |
| Balanced, clear mids and highs, moderate bass | Powerful bass-forward sound, higher maximum volume |
The Soundcore Boom 2 SE is notably louder with its 30W output (up to 80W with BassUp) compared to the Sony ULT FIELD 1. If maximum volume is important, the Soundcore is the better choice.
The Soundcore Boom 2 SE offers superior battery life with up to 24 hours of playback, while the Sony ULT FIELD 1 provides 12 hours maximum, dropping to 3-4 hours at high volume.
The Sony ULT FIELD 1 has better durability with IP67 rating and military-grade shock protection, compared to the Soundcore Boom 2 SE's IPX7 rating. However, both are waterproof and suitable for outdoor use.
The Soundcore Boom 2 SE delivers stronger bass with its 50W subwoofer and BassUp 2.0 technology. The Sony ULT FIELD 1 offers more modest bass, even with its ULT mode enabled.
The Soundcore Boom 2 SE is better suited for parties with its higher volume, LED light show, and ability to connect up to 100 speakers. The Sony ULT FIELD 1 is better for smaller gatherings.
The Sony ULT FIELD 1 is more compact and portable with its multi-way carrying strap, while the Soundcore Boom 2 SE is larger but includes more features.
Yes, both can handle calls, but the Sony ULT FIELD 1 has superior echo cancellation technology specifically designed for clear calling.
At $99.00, the Soundcore Boom 2 SE offers more features and power, while the $89.99 Sony ULT FIELD 1 provides better build quality and portability.
The Soundcore Boom 2 SE can connect with up to 100 compatible speakers, while the Sony ULT FIELD 1 can only pair with another ULT FIELD 1.
Both are waterproof, but the Soundcore Boom 2 SE floats and has more volume, making it better for beach/pool use. The Sony ULT FIELD 1 has better dust protection.
The Sony ULT FIELD 1 offers more balanced, clear sound ideal for acoustic and vocal music, while the Soundcore Boom 2 SE provides more powerful, bass-heavy sound.
The Soundcore Boom 2 SE includes an LED light show and power bank function, while the Sony ULT FIELD 1 features Sound Diffusion Processing and military-grade durability.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: rtings.com - youtube.com - youtube.com - soundguys.com - techradar.com - electronics.sony.com - thesonyshop.ca - bestbuy.com - electronics.sony.com - sony.ca - stereoguide.com - youtube.com - electronics.sony.com - soundcore.com - gzhls.at - youtube.com - techradar.com - support.soundcore.com - digitaltrends.com - trustedreviews.com - soundguys.com
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