

By The Tech Guy
Looking for a compact speaker that packs a punch? Meet the Bose SoundLink Revolve Series II. This portable Bluetooth speaker promises to fill any space with immersive, 360° sound. Whether you’re hosting a party, chilling by the pool, or simply enjoying some solo tunes, this speaker aims to deliver.
Let’s dive into the details of what makes this little gadget a big deal and top pick for audiophiles.
THE RECOMMENDATIONS
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THE BREAKDOWN
- Stunning 360-degree sound quality
- Robust and water-resistant design
- Long battery life and easy Bluetooth connectivity
- Versatile with built-in microphone and Bose Connect app features
- Heavier than some competitors, impacting portability
- Lacks Wi-Fi connectivity and smart features found in some alternatives
A Design That Turns Heads (And Ears)
The Bose SoundLink Revolve Series II is a sleek, cylindrical speaker. Its aluminum body feels sturdy yet lightweight, making it easy to carry around. With dimensions that fit perfectly in your hand, it’s designed to go wherever your music does in a small package. The buttons on top are intuitive, offering seamless control over playback, volume, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Plus, the IP55 rating means it can handle splashes and a bit of dust. So, you can confidently take it to pool parties, beach trips, or even use it during a spontaneous rain dance. The design is minimalistic yet sophisticated, fitting seamlessly into any setting—from your cozy living room to your bustling backyard BBQ.
The Magic Inside
The Bose SoundLink Revolve Series II packs an impressive array of features that set it apart from any other portable small speaker. Here’s a closer look at what makes this a standout choice for audio enthusiasts.
360° Sound for Immersive Audio
The standout feature of the SoundLink Revolve Series II is its ability to deliver 360° stereo sound. Unlike many speakers that project sound in one direction, this model spreads sound evenly throughout the room like a live performance. This ensures that everyone around the speaker enjoys the same rich audio experience, regardless of their position. Whether it’s in the center of the room or placed against a wall, the sound remains consistent, clear, and immersive. This makes it ideal for parties, gatherings, or simply filling a room with your favorite music. Giving you big sound from a small speaker.
Extended Battery Life for All-Day Play
One of the improvements over the original SoundLink Revolve is the long battery life. The Series II offers up to 13 hours of continuous playback on a single charge, thanks to its rechargeable lithium-ion battery. This means you can enjoy an entire day of music without needing to plug in. Whether you’re spending a day at the park, enjoying a long hike, or hosting an evening get-together, the SoundLink Revolve Series II has the stamina to keep your playlist going.
Built-In Microphone for Hands-Free Convenience
The built-in wireless microphone adds a layer of versatility to the SoundLink Revolve Series II. It allows you to take calls directly through the speaker, providing a hands-free calling experience with clear audio an limited background noise. The microphone also lets you access your phone’s voice assistant, like Siri or Google Assistant. This makes it easy to control your music or get quick answers without needing to reach for your phone. Additionally, you can pair the speaker with an Amazon Alexa-enabled device, like an Echo Dot, for even more voice control options.
Voice Prompts Make Bluetooth Pairing a Breeze
Connecting your devices to the SoundLink Revolve Series II is made simple with the help of voice prompts. As you pair a new device, the speaker guides you through the process with clear voice instructions, ensuring you get it right the first time. This feature is particularly handy if you’re not very tech-savvy or if you want to pair devices quickly while on the go. No more fumbling through settings—just listen and connect.
Bose Connect App for Easy Management
The Bose Connect app is a valuable companion for this speaker, offering an intuitive interface for managing your Bluetooth connections. The app allows you to switch between paired devices seamlessly, so you can jump from your phone to your tablet without a hitch. It also lets you unlock additional features, adjust settings, and keep your speaker’s software up-to-date. Plus, you can use the app to pair two SoundLink speakers for a stereo or party mode, creating an even bigger sound experience.
SimpleSync Technology for Multi-Room Audio
The SoundLink Revolve Series II comes with Bose SimpleSync technology, a feature that makes it possible to pair your speaker with other compatible Bose products. This allows you to create a synchronized audio experience across multiple rooms. For example, you can play music through the SoundLink Revolve Series II in the living room and have it synced with your Bose Smart Soundbar in the TV room. If you’re moving around the house or want to keep the same vibe going in different areas, SimpleSync ensures that the music follows you seamlessly.
Setting up SimpleSync is straightforward. You just press and hold the Bluetooth button on the speaker, and it will sync up with other Bose devices. Already have a group going? Just press the Action button on your devices to link up and keep the party going.
Durable Design with IP55 Rating
The SoundLink Revolve Series II’s design is more than just aesthetically pleasing; it’s built to withstand real-life adventures. With an IP55 rating, the speaker has both dust and water resistance. It can handle splashes, light rain, and even a dusty trail without missing a beat. This makes it the perfect companion for outdoor events like beach trips, poolside lounging, or camping under the stars. It’s a speaker that’s built to survive life’s little accidents while delivering uninterrupted sound.
Micro-B USB Charging: A Familiar Connection
While many newer devices have switched to USB-C, the SoundLink Revolve Series II sticks with a Micro-B USB charging port. This might be a minor drawback for those who prefer universal cables, but it also means that you likely have a few compatible cables lying around. The charging process is straightforward, and the speaker comes with a Micro-B cable to get you started. If you want to level up your setup, Bose also offers an optional charging cradle, making it easy to keep your speaker charged and ready to go.
Multi-Connect for Seamless Switching
With the multi-connect feature, you can pair the SoundLink Revolve Series II with two devices simultaneously. This allows you to effortlessly switch between them without needing to disconnect and reconnect. Imagine you’re listening to music on your phone and want to switch to a podcast on your tablet. With multi-connect, you can do that in seconds, keeping the audio flowing without interruption. It’s a feature that’s particularly useful for families or shared spaces where multiple people might want to connect their devices.
Party Mode and Stereo Pairing
The SoundLink Revolve Series II doesn’t just stop at one speaker—it allows you to take things up a notch with Party Mode and Stereo Pairing. By using the Bose Connect app, you can link two SoundLink Revolve Series II speakers together for double the sound. In Party Mode, both speakers play the same audio, which is perfect for spreading sound throughout a larger space. If you’re after a more immersive experience, switch to Stereo Mode, where each speaker serves as a left or right channel, creating a wider soundstage. This setup is ideal for movie nights, outdoor parties or those times when you just want to feel like you’re in the front row of a concert.
Each of these features makes the Bose SoundLink Revolve Series II more than just a portable Bluetooth speaker. It’s a versatile, user-friendly, and high-performance audio companion that adapts to different listening needs. It offers impressive sound in a durable and compact design with good looks. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or just someone who loves great sound, this speaker has plenty to offer. It’s easy to see why this is one of the best Bluetooth speakers in a sea of all-in-one portable sound systems.
Does It Deliver the Goods?
Sound quality is where the Bose SoundLink Revolve Series II truly shines. True to Bose’s reputation, this speaker delivers crisp highs, balanced mids, and surprisingly deep bass for its smaller size. The 360° sound feature is not just a gimmick—it genuinely fills the room with consistent audio for a solid performance. It really makes the biggest difference when it comes to the audio experience on smaller speakers.
At higher or loud volumes, the speaker maintains clarity without distortion. Even when you push it to the limit, it remains composed. This makes it ideal for both intimate gatherings and filling a larger space with clearer sound.
Whether you’re listening to acoustic tracks, pumping EDM, or catching up on podcasts, the audio remains well-rounded and immersive. For a small Bluetooth speaker, the SoundLink Revolve Series II offers impressive output, thanks to its 25-watt power. It’s small enough to carry yet powerful enough to be the life of the party.
From Unboxing to Everyday Use
From the moment you unbox the SoundLink Revolve Series II, the experience feels premium. The packaging is sleek, and everything is well-organized. Setting up the speaker is incredibly simple—just power it on, follow the voice prompts, and pair it with your phone.
One of the standout features is the ease of switching between devices. With multi-connect, you can pair two devices at once and effortlessly switch between them. This is perfect for those moments when you want to quickly share a song without disconnecting and reconnecting every time.
The speaker’s portability is another highlight. Its lightweight design makes it easy to toss into a bag and take on adventures. It’s certainly easier to carry than bigger speakers. And with a 13-hour battery life, it keeps the music going without frequent recharges.
Ready for Real-Life Adventures
Life can get messy, but the SoundLink Revolve Series II is up for the challenge. Its IP55 rating means it can handle a little water and dust. Spilled your drink near the speaker? No worries—it will keep playing like nothing happened.
This durability makes it a great companion for outdoor activities. Whether it’s a camping trip, a day at the beach, or a picnic in the park, the SoundLink Revolve Series II stands up to the elements.
Is It Worth the Splurge?
Bose products come with a reputation—and a price tag to match. The SoundLink Revolve Series II isn’t the cheapest portable speaker out there. But considering the quality of sound, design, and extra features, it offers solid value for your investment.
Compared to other speakers in its class, it stands out with its 360° sound and sturdy build. The extended battery life and easy-to-use app add to its appeal. If you value high-quality audio this speaker won’t let you down. The SoundLink Revolve Series II is among the best speakers available and a truly worthy contender.
THE COMPETITION
- Easily connect with other Sonos speakers to create a comprehensive sound system
- Its size and battery life make it perfect for on-the-go use
- Durable, waterproof, and dustproof, ready for any adventure
- The 10-hour battery life is adequate, but for longer trips, you might find yourself needing a mid-day recharge
- As with most Sonos products, the Roam comes at a premium price point
The Sonos Roam Portable Bluetooth Speaker is a compact, versatile speaker designed for seamless indoor and outdoor use. With both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, it adapts effortlessly between home use and on-the-go listening. Its IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating makes it durable for outdoor adventures. Automatic Trueplay ensures optimal sound by adjusting to any environment, providing clear audio and deep bass. The 10-hour battery life keeps your music playing through the day, and it recharges easily via USB-C or wireless charging.
In comparison, the Bose SoundLink Revolve Series II offers 360° sound with a robust IP55 rating and up to 13 hours of battery life. While the Sonos Roam is smaller and lighter, making it more portable, the Bose speaker provides a slightly longer playtime and a more balanced sound experience for indoor settings. The Sonos Roam stands out with its multi-room capabilities via Wi-Fi, making it ideal for those in the Sonos ecosystem.
Both speakers deliver high-quality audio, but the Sonos Roam excels in portability and smart connectivity, offering a versatile option for users seeking flexible listening experiences.
- Delivers powerful, high-quality audio that JBL is known for
- Keeps the tunes rolling for hours on end
- Waterproof and dustproof, ideal for any outdoor setting
- Acts as both a speaker and a powerbank
- Slightly heavier than some might expect, which could be a downside if you prefer ultra-light devices
- The Charge 5 comes at a premium price point, which might not fit everyone’s budget
The JBL Charge 5 Portable Bluetooth Speaker offers powerful 40W sound, 20-hour battery life, and durable design. Its IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating makes it ideal for outdoor adventures. With JBL Original Pro Sound, it delivers rich audio with deep bass and clear highs. The built-in powerbank allows you to charge devices while listening, making it perfect for all-day events. The PartyBoost feature lets you pair multiple speakers for an amplified sound experience.
In comparison, the Bose SoundLink Revolve Series II features 360° sound and a slightly longer 13-hour battery life. The JBL Charge 5 offers a more robust 20 hours of playtime, making it better suited for extended outings. While both have water-resistant designs, the JBL’s IP67 rating provides higher dust and water protection than Bose’s IP55 rating.
The JBL Charge 5 excels in outdoor durability and battery life, while the Bose SoundLink Revolve Series II offers more balanced, immersive sound. Both deliver quality audio, but JBL’s rugged design and extra features make it a great choice for those on the go. Overall, the JBL Charge 5 offers excellent value for its price.
THE FINAL VERDICT
The Bose SoundLink Revolve Series II is a fantastic blend of style, performance, and practicality. It’s a speaker that’s as at home in your living room as it is at a beach bonfire. It’s small, but it brings big sound, making it a versatile choice for music lovers who want their tunes to follow them everywhere.
It’s the best choice for those who refuse to settle for less when it comes to portable sound. Yes, it has a premium price tag. But you’re paying for a top-tier audio experience and a name you can trust. Whether you’re listening indoors or outdoors, this speaker delivers an audio experience that’s truly worth listening to. With everything it offers, this is clearly one of the best smart speakers available with high quality sound output.
Are you in the market for a durable, portable speaker that doesn’t compromise on audio quality? The Bose SoundLink Revolve Series II should definitely be on your list.
THE FAQ
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How do I pair my device with the SoundLink Revolve Series II?
To pair your device with the SoundLink Revolve Series II:
1. Turn on the speaker by pressing the power button.
2. Press and hold the Bluetooth button until the Bluetooth indicator blinks blue, indicating it’s in pairing mode.
3. On your smartphone, tablet, or computer, go to Bluetooth settings and select “Bose Revolve SoundLink II” from the list of available devices.
4. Once connected, the speaker will emit a tone confirming successful pairing.
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Can I connect multiple devices to the SoundLink at the same time?
Yes, the Bose SoundLink supports multi-point connectivity, allowing you to connect two devices to the speaker simultaneously. This makes it easy to switch between devices to play music without needing to disconnect and reconnect.
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What is the battery life of the SoundLink and how do I charge it?
The SoundLink Revolve Series II offers up to 13 hours of playtime on a full charge. To charge the speaker, use the provided USB cable to connect it to a power source or an optional charging cradle (sold separately). A full charge takes approximately 4 hours.
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Is the SoundLink waterproof?
The SoundLink Revolve Series II is water-resistant with an IP55 rating, meaning it’s protected against dust ingress and low-pressure water jets from any direction. However, it’s not fully waterproof and should not be submerged in water.
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How do I use the speakerphone function on the SoundLink?
When connected to a smartphone via Bluetooth, the SoundLink Revolve Series II can be used as a speakerphone. Incoming calls will automatically pause your music, and you can answer the call by pressing the multi-function button. You can also reject a call by pressing and holding the multi-function button.
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Can I use the SoundLink with voice assistants?
Yes, when connected to your smartphone via Bluetooth, the SoundLink Revolve Series II can access your phone’s voice assistant (e.g., Siri, Google Assistant). Press and hold the multi-function button to activate the voice assistant and issue commands through the speaker.
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How do I update the firmware on the SoundLink?
Firmware updates for the SoundLink Revolve Series II can be done through the Bose Connect app, available for iOS and Android devices. The app will notify you of available updates and guide you through the update process.
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Can I stereo pair the SoundLink with another Bose speaker?
Yes, you can use the Bose Connect app to pair the SoundLink Revolve Series II with another Bose Bluetooth speaker that supports Stereo or Party Mode for an enhanced audio experience.
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What accessories are available for the SoundLink?
Accessories for the SoundLink Revolve Series II include a charging cradle for convenient charging and storage, wall chargers, protective covers, and carrying cases.
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Is there a warranty for the SoundLink Revolve Series II?
Yes, the SoundLink comes with a limited warranty, which can range from 1 to 5 years, that covers defects in materials and workmanship. The specific duration and terms of the warranty may vary by region. For warranty claims and information, contact Bose customer service with your proof of purchase.
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