LG XBOOM 360 & XBOOM Go Bluetooth Speakers Unveiled
Are Bluetooth speakers becoming a commodity where there is very little to differentiate one from the other? LG is hoping that is not the case with 2022 XBOOM 360 and XBOOM Go Bluetooth Speakers.
The Korean manufacturer is aiming for Sonos, JBL, and Bose with their new range and we are curious to find out if a stereo pair can be synched to one of LG’s OLED 4K TVs to create a more immersive experience without the need for a soundbar.
All three speakers incorporate Bluetooth ver 5.1 with SBC and AAC codec support and are rated IP67 for dust and water resistance.
In addition, the XBOOM speakers also provide a 3.5mm input for playback devices that require physical connectivity.
XBOOM 360
The LG XBOOM 360 (model X03QBK) features advanced 360 sound with a 3-Way Sound System. This provides an immersive listening experience with the promise of more accurate treble, clearer midrange, and rich/deeper bass.
The 2022 XBOOM 360 brings a lot of the same features from last year’s XBOOM 360 (model RP4B), but in a smaller size. The new 2022 XBOOM 360 is about 7-inches shorter and opts for a side strap instead of a top handle.
Both models offer a cone-shaped speaker assembly at the top that projects sound so that listener gets the same experience from every angle, including upward firing sound.
- Bass Enhancement: A 4-inch woofer provides clarity and big bass that is great for parties.
- Audio Presets: Standard, Sound Boost, and User EQ settings allow listeners to tailor their sound experience further.
- Mood Lighting: In addition to sound, three mood-lighting modes featuring nine presets are included.
- IP67 Dust and Water resistance rating allows flexible outdoor use.
- A strap is also included for maximum portability.
- Up to 24 hours of playback with one complete battery charge.
XBOOM Go Models
In addition to the X03QBK, LG has announced two new look-alike XBOOM Go models (XG7QBK and XG5QBK). They are mainly differentiated by size and battery life. The XG7QBK is 10.3-inches long with a 24 hour battery, while the XG5QBK is 1.5-inches smaller with a 18 hour battery. However, we would expect the larger model to offer fuller sound.
For better audio performance, LG has partnered with Meridian to enhance the audio quality by adding a Sound Boost EQ mode to the LG XBOOM Go speakers.
No — they do not support MQA.
The XBOOM Go also provides flashing LED lights that sync to the beat of your music for a custom light show.
LG XBOOM Go’s Bluetooth capability lets you use these speakers as a speakerphone.
With the voice command hotkey, ask your favorite voice-controlled apps like Google Assistant, Alexa, or Siri command and you shall receive—just say what to play, pause or skip (not available on the XBOOM 360).
The LG XG7 also includes a built-in power bank allowing listeners to hook up their phone with a USB Type-C port to charge it with the built-in XBOOM battery.
- XG7QBK: Up to 24 hours of playback on a complete charge.
- XG5QBK: Up to 18 hours of playback on a complete charge.
All 2022 LG XBOOM models are also IP67 Dust and Water resistance rated.
Wireless Party Link
LG’s Wireless Party Link feature allows you to wirelessly connect up to 10 LG (XG5, XG7, X03) speakers for a room or home-filling music listening experience.
XBOOM App
LG also includes access to the XBOOM app (iOS/Android). This allows users to easily use the feature and setting controls for XBOOM speakers.
Tip: Some settings and features may vary when using the app with the XBOOM 360 vs the XBOOM Go speakers.
Key Specifications
- XBOOM 360 X03QBK:
- Battery life: 24 hours
- Dimensions (WxHxD): 6.5 x 12.9 x 6.5 inches
- Weight: 7.1 lbs.
- XBOOM Go XG7QBK:
- Battery life: 24 hours
- Dimensions (WxHxD): 10.3 x 3.9 x 3.7 inches
- Weight: 2.4 lbs
- XBOOM Go XG5QBK
- Battery life: 18 hours
- Dimensions (WxHxD): 8.7 x 3.3 x 3.2 inches
- Weight: 1.5 lbs.
2022 LG XBOOM Series Availability & Prices
- LG XBOOM XG7QBK ($179.99 or less): Available at LG.com.
- LG XBOOM XG5QBK ($129.99 or less): Available at LG.com.
Tip: LG’s XBOOM 360 from 2021 remains available and is currently over half off at Amazon! Also, the portable 2020 LG XBOOM Go PL7 we reviewed is still available.