JBL RallyBar Outdoor Soundbar Review Powerful Bluetooth Audio with LED Lights and Waterproof Design

Description

A Rugged Companion for Outdoor Sound Adventures

I recently tested the JBL RallyBar – 21″ Bluetooth Universal Outdoor Vehicle Soundbar (Model JBLPWSRALLYBARAM), and it quickly became an integral part of my outdoor escapades. This waterproof and dustproof soundbar, designed for everything from UTVs to boats, is packed with features that cater to thrill-seekers and sound enthusiasts alike. With a built-in 150-watt RMS amplifier, dynamic LED lights, and an IP66 rating, it seemed like the perfect choice for rugged adventures. But, as with any product, there are some things worth noting.

Design and Build Quality

The RallyBar’s robust build immediately caught my attention. It feels solid in hand, thanks to its rubberized and plastic construction, which seems tailor-made to withstand the abuse of outdoor environments. At 21 inches wide and weighing 12 pounds, it’s not exactly compact, but the size ensures a powerful and immersive audio output. The innovative mounting kits included in the box make installation a breeze, whether you’re attaching it to a UTV, golf cart, or a boat. I appreciated the multiple mounting position combinations, which allowed me to tailor the setup to my vehicle’s layout.

One feature that stood out was the IP66 rating, meaning it’s both water and dust resistant. I tested it on a particularly muddy trail, and despite being pelted with grime and water, the soundbar didn’t miss a beat. This ruggedness is a huge plus for outdoor enthusiasts who need gear that can keep up with their adventures.

Sound Performance and Features

The 150-watt RMS Class-D amplifier is the heart of this soundbar, delivering powerful, crisp, and dynamic sound. Whether I was blasting music on a rocky trail or cruising along a serene lake, the JBL Original Pro Sound filled the space effortlessly. The sound clarity was impressive, particularly the balance between the 2.75-inch subwoofers and 25.4-millimeter tweeters, which ensured that both bass and treble were well-represented.

I also appreciated the automatic audio source detection. The RallyBar prioritizes USB, Bluetooth, and AUX inputs seamlessly. For instance, plugging in a USB drive instantly overrode the Bluetooth connection, which was incredibly convenient. The support for Broadcast Mode was another highlight, allowing me to sync multiple JBL RallyBars to create a more immersive sound environment. It’s a feature that’s perfect for larger gatherings or multi-vehicle setups.

Positives

The RallyBar delivered several key benefits that kept me impressed throughout testing:

• Dynamic LED lights that sync with the music added a fun visual element to the sound experience.
• IP66 water and dust resistance ensured the soundbar survived even the harshest conditions.
• The remote control compatibility (with the optional JBL Click) offered effortless track and volume management.
• Compact but powerful sound output, making it ideal for open-air setups like boats or UTVs.

Negatives

Despite its many strengths, there were a few less favorable aspects to consider:

• The Bluetooth range of 100 meters, while generous, sometimes suffered from signal interruptions in dense areas.
• The overall weight of 12 pounds might be a challenge for some installations, particularly on smaller vehicles.
• Lack of an MP3 player built into the system, limiting onboard media playback options.

Dynamic LED Lights: More Than Just a Gimmick

The LED lighting system on the RallyBar isn’t just for show—it’s a genuine mood-setter. By pressing the controls on the bottom panel, I could sync the lights to the beat of the music, creating a mini light show that added excitement to nighttime rides. While some might see this as a novelty, I found it surprisingly enjoyable, especially when paired with the soundbar’s deep bass and crisp highs. It’s worth mentioning that the LED feature can be turned off if you’re aiming for a more understated look.

Competing Products

In comparison to other outdoor soundbars on the market, the RallyBar holds its ground well. For example, I’ve tried the Wet Sounds STEALTH-10 Ultra, which offers great sound quality but lacks the dynamic LED lighting and Broadcast Mode that the RallyBar brings to the table. Another contender, the BOSS Audio ATVB95LED, includes lights but doesn’t quite match the JBL’s sound clarity and build quality. Where the RallyBar excels is in its combination of rugged durability, high-quality sound, and fun features like the LED lights.

Bang for the Buck

While the RallyBar isn’t the cheapest option out there, it offers excellent value for its price point. Features like the IP66 rating, built-in amplifier, and Bluetooth connectivity justify the investment for anyone serious about outdoor sound systems. Compared to pricier alternatives, the RallyBar strikes a balance between affordability and premium performance, delivering a product that feels worth every penny. Given its versatility and durability, I’d say it’s a smart choice for adventurers who don’t want to compromise on audio quality.

The JBL RallyBar has proven itself as a reliable and feature-packed soundbar that can handle the rough and tumble of outdoor activities. While some minor tweaks could enhance the experience further, the dynamic sound, rugged design, and fun LED features make it a standout option for UTVs, boats, and more.

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