Tribit, known for crafting some of our favorite Bluetooth speakers, has unveiled the StormBox Blast 2. This upgraded version of their popular rugged portable speaker delivers an impressive 200 watts of output, features enhanced dust and water resistance, and introduces dual karaoke inputs and functionalities that cater to partygoers.
Boosting its power significantly from the original StormBox Blast’s 90 watts, the Blast 2’s 200 watts (180 watts on battery) comes from five newly engineered drivers, including an 80-watt woofer, two 45-watt midrange drivers, and a pair of 15-watt tweeters.
The system is driven by what Tribit refers to as two “advanced Ti amplifiers” designed to provide a “balanced and dynamic sound.” Similar to other barrel-shaped Bluetooth speakers like the Soundcore Boom 2 Plus and Skullcandy Barrel, the StormBox Blast 2 incorporates passive bass radiators on either end, which enhance the low-end sound.
However, the Blast 2 stands apart from similar boombox-style Bluetooth speakers by incorporating karaoke features, making it comparable to party models like the JBL PartyBox Stage 320, albeit in a more compact, less powerful design. It comes with two 1/4-inch microphone inputs for wired mics, allowing users to sing duets with friends. Additionally, it supports two wireless Tribit microphones, one of which is included with the Blast 2 at launch while supplies last. Each microphone input features its own volume controls, allowing for a balanced mix of vocals and music, and a reverb effect can be added for an enhanced experience.
Wireless connectivity is provided by Bluetooth 5.4, enabling easy pairing with phones, laptops, and other devices for seamless streaming from platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. Alternatively, there’s a 3.5mm aux input on the back for wired connections.
The Blast 2 is significantly larger than its predecessor, measuring 18.7 by 7.6 by 10 inches and weighing 20 pounds, compared to the original Blast’s weight of 12 pounds. This increased size not only boosts its volume output but also enhances the light show feature, with LED strips lining both sides that can be customized through the Tribit app.
Though the Blast 2 has seen an upgrade from the IPX7 rating to a now dustproof IP67, there was no need to enhance its battery life, which remains a robust 30 hours per charge—ample time for pool parties or karaoke sessions, although it’s worth monitoring battery performance during the latter.
The Tribit StormBox Blast 2 is priced at $299, and Tribit is offering an early bird special that includes an $80 discount and a complimentary wireless microphone until October 27.