Sony is revitalizing its Bluetooth speaker collection, announcing today that three of its portable models are receiving the upgraded ULT Power Sound series branding introduced last year. These new speakers boast a modern design, dedicated bass-boost buttons, dazzling LED lighting effects, and enhanced battery life. Prices for these models range from $200 to $900, and they vary in size from compact options to large party speakers. To top it off, Sony has joined forces with Post Malone to celebrate their launch.
At the entry-level, we have the Sony ULT Field 3, a $200 cylindrical speaker that’s versatile enough to be used upright or on its side. It includes a shoulder strap for easy transport. The Field 3 replaces the older Sony SRS-XE300 and acts as a more advanced version of the ULT Field 1. Equipped with a single woofer, a tweeter, and two passive bass radiators, the speaker emphasizes powerful low-end sound. The bass boost feature, dubbed ULT1, promises deeper low-frequency performance.
Sony claims the ULT Field 3 “offers powerful sound without sacrificing clarity.” In addition to its ULT1 bass boost functionality, users can customize their audio experience with a 7-band equalizer and link multiple speakers for an expanded sound experience, including a stereo pair. With a battery life of up to 24 hours per charge (slightly reduced with bass boost), the speaker is also IP67 certified, meaning it can withstand dust and water. The Field 3 aims to compete with the newly released JBL Flip 7, which generated buzz recently.
Moving up the range, the ULT Field 5 is a $330 Bluetooth speaker that shares a similar form factor with the Field 3, capable of standing or laying on its side. However, the Field 5 features a central woofer and dual tweeters for superior sound, as well as dual passive radiators for enhanced bass. This model includes the ULT1 bass boost button plus an additional ULT2 button for "powerful punchy bass."
The Field 5 also incorporates LED lighting, making it a fun addition for parties, which can be controlled via the Sound Connect app. It has three extra bands on the adjustable equalizer, accessible through the app, and boasts up to 25 hours of battery life (which will decrease with bass boost and lighting usage). Like its counterpart, the Field 5 supports party and stereo pairing and is also rated IP67 for dust and water resistance.
Finally, we have the heavyweight, the ULT Tower 9 party speaker, which is the most powerful of the new offerings. This model replaces the Sony SRS-XV900 and is designed specifically for a party environment, competing with models such as the JBL PartyBox Stage 320 and the Soundcore Rave 3S.
Featuring a large 12.6-inch woofer for robust bass, four tweeters for clear treble, and two mid-range drivers for vibrant vocals and instruments, the Tower 9 is built to make a statement with its substantial sound. Measuring 16 x 35.8 x 17.9 inches and weighing 65 pounds, it comes equipped with sturdy wheels for portability. Both the ULT1 and ULT2 bass boost options are available, along with a 10-band equalizer and app support.
Beyond music, the ULT Tower 9 supports wireless karaoke microphones and can connect to your TV through its optical input. This feature offers a TV Sound Booster option for enhanced audio during viewing, all controllable via the Sound Connect app. As expected from a party speaker, it also includes an impressive LED light show.
The ULT Tower 9 is priced at $900, and for those looking to save a bit, there is an AC-powered variant available for $750, branded as the Tower 9AC.
Sony’s ULT Field 3, Field 5, and Tower 9 speakers are available now through various online retailers and on Sony’s official website.