Bose SoundLink Revolve+ (Series II) — In-Depth Professional Review
The Bose SoundLink Revolve+ (Series II) is designed for those who appreciate high-quality sound in a compact, portable form. Known for its 360° sound projection, this second-generation model refines the experience with improved durability, longer battery life, and versatile connectivity. Whether for home use, office ambiance, or outdoor gatherings, the Revolve+ II aims to blend style, practicality, and signature Bose performance into one device.
Design and Build Quality
The first thing that stands out about the Bose SoundLink Revolve+ II is its premium design. Crafted from smooth aluminum with a soft woven carrying handle, the speaker feels both elegant and functional. Its cylindrical shape is not just for aesthetics—it allows for 360° audio dispersion, ensuring that everyone around it hears the same balanced sound.
Measuring roughly 7.25 inches tall and weighing about 2 pounds, it’s compact enough to carry easily while still feeling substantial. The build is solid, and the speaker’s IP55 rating means it is resistant to both dust and water. This makes it suitable for poolside use, kitchens, patios, and light outdoor activities. While it’s not designed for heavy-duty adventure use, it can handle minor splashes and exposure to the elements without issue.
Sound Performance
Bose has long been recognized for its ability to deliver rich, detailed sound from relatively small enclosures, and the SoundLink Revolve+ II continues this tradition. The speaker provides a true 360° sound experience—clear, consistent audio that fills the room evenly, regardless of where you’re standing.
Audio balance
The sound signature is well-balanced. The bass is tight and punchy without overpowering the mids and highs. Vocals are crisp and natural, while instruments retain their clarity. Unlike some portable speakers that emphasize bass at the expense of detail, the Revolve+ II maintains a clear and natural tone across the frequency spectrum.
Volume and clarity
At moderate to high volumes, the sound remains distortion-free and rich. For small to medium spaces—like living rooms, bedrooms, or outdoor patios—the Revolve+ II delivers more than enough output. Even when pushed to maximum levels, the sound maintains coherence and balance, which is impressive for its size.
Real-world experience
The 360° coverage means that you can place the speaker in the center of a group setting and everyone will enjoy the same experience. Placing it near a wall slightly enhances the bass response due to reflection, which can make it sound fuller in enclosed spaces.
Battery Life and Charging
Bose claims up to 17 hours of continuous playback on a single charge, which is a notable improvement over the first-generation Revolve+. Real-world performance depends on volume levels and connection type, but most users can expect around 14–16 hours of consistent use—more than enough for a full day outdoors or an extended evening gathering.
The rechargeable lithium-ion battery charges through the Micro-B USB port, and Bose includes both a USB cable and wall charger in the package. While the continued use of Micro-B instead of USB-C feels outdated, charging is still reliable and efficient. A full charge typically takes about 4 hours. For those on the go, the optional charging dock (sold separately) can make topping up more convenient.
Features and Connectivity
The Revolve+ II offers multiple connectivity options and smart integrations that make it versatile for everyday use. It connects wirelessly via Bluetooth, supports voice assistants, and includes an auxiliary input for wired sources.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: The pairing process is straightforward, assisted by voice prompts that guide you through setup. The connection remains stable within a range of about 30 feet, depending on obstacles and interference.
- Auxiliary Input: A 3.5mm audio input provides flexibility for non-Bluetooth devices such as older MP3 players or computers.
- Voice Assistant Access: You can access your smartphone’s voice assistant (such as Siri or Google Assistant) directly through the speaker, which is helpful when your phone is out of reach.
- Speakerphone Functionality: The built-in microphone allows for hands-free calls. Voices sound clear enough for conversations in quiet spaces, though it’s best suited for casual rather than business calls.
- Multi-Speaker Pairing: The speaker supports Party Mode and Stereo Mode when connected with another SoundLink Revolve or Revolve+ unit, expanding sound coverage or creating a true left-right stereo setup.
Ease of Use and Controls
The control layout is intuitive, located on the top of the device. Buttons include power, Bluetooth pairing, volume up/down, multi-function (for play/pause/skip), and a dedicated button for input selection or voice assistant activation. The tactile feedback is satisfying, and each button press feels deliberate.
The speaker also remembers the last eight devices connected, making it convenient for households where multiple people share the same device. Voice prompts announce battery level and connection status, and you can mute them if you prefer a quieter experience.
Durability and Portability
Durability is another strength of the SoundLink Revolve+ II. The aluminum shell not only looks sophisticated but also protects against scratches and minor impacts. Combined with the IP55 rating, the speaker can handle most casual outdoor conditions, from garden parties to light rain showers.
The soft fabric handle adds real convenience for carrying. It’s flexible, comfortable, and feels sturdy. While some portable speakers rely on rubber coatings that wear out over time, the Revolve+ II maintains its aesthetic even after months of use.
Practical Applications
One of the key advantages of the Revolve+ II is its versatility. It fits seamlessly into different environments:
- Home Use: Perfect for living rooms, bedrooms, or kitchens. Its even sound distribution makes it ideal for background music or casual listening.
- Outdoor Gatherings: The IP55 protection and solid battery life make it great for barbecues, picnics, or poolside sessions.
- Office or Work Settings: The speakerphone and voice assistant features make it functional for remote work or conference calls.
- Travel: The portable size and durable handle allow easy transport in bags or luggage.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- True 360° sound with consistent clarity
- Durable aluminum body with IP55 water resistance
- Long battery life (up to 17 hours)
- Voice assistant and speakerphone integration
- Convenient handle and lightweight portability
Cons
- Uses Micro-B instead of modern USB-C
- Not designed for extreme rugged environments
- Premium price compared to some competitors
Final Thoughts
The Bose SoundLink Revolve+ (Series II) is a thoughtfully engineered Bluetooth speaker that emphasizes clarity, craftsmanship, and balanced audio over sheer volume. It’s ideal for listeners who appreciate natural sound and refined design. The 360° sound projection works impressively well, providing a uniform listening experience that feels immersive without being overpowering.
The extended battery life, flexible connectivity, and stylish build make it one of the most complete portable speakers in its category. While the lack of USB-C charging and its premium price tag are small drawbacks, they don’t detract from the overall experience. This is a speaker built to last—one that looks as good as it sounds, and performs consistently wherever you take it.
For music lovers seeking a portable yet sophisticated solution for everyday listening, the SoundLink Revolve+ II is an excellent choice.