The Tribit MaxBoom Bluetooth speaker is one of the many wireless audio devices out there now in a crowded marketplace, which can offer replay of your audiobooks, YouTube online books, text-to-speech ebooks, and other options for the audiophilic bibliophile. This is such a congested space now that it needs some extra push to stand out from the crowd. So how does the Tribit MaxBoom fare against the competition, and what features does it have to distinguish itself in its price range?

To cover one very basic but essential point, the MaxBoom is no mean audio performer, and almost lives up to its name. The two flexible passive radiators at either end of the unit help deliver a really solid base performance, with ample volume and presence even on battery power. At 2 x 12w output, the unit is pushing plentiful watts, with an optional XBass switch. Sound clarify and tone are also more than adequate., though laying it on its back or even hanging it up by the included strap is recommended, to give the two radiators full play. The MaxBoom may be slightly larger and heavier than some speakers in its class, at 68 x 180 x 68 mm and 545g, but it certainly earns its place through sheer sound.

As for its other features, Bluetooth connectivity is prompt and problem free, with a claimed connection range of over 20 metres over Bluetooth 4.2. The device is waterproof – if you remember to close its rubber flap over the input and output sockets – enabling you to play it underwater if that takes your fancy. I certainly didn’t test that feature, but it should do fine for poolside or boating use. As well as Bluetooth (but no Wifi), connectivity includes a Micro USB socket for charging and a 3.5 mm audio input socket. The unit comes with a (short) Micro USB cable, but no charger: It will work well enough off any charger that can match its 2A specification, though.

The MaxBoom doesn’t come bundled with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, or any of the other modern audio-enabled voice command packages. However, with its speakerphone function, it’s easy enough to make the MaxBoom function as a client for Google Assistant at least. Tribit highlights the ability to daisy-chain two MaxBooms together, although I had no chance to check this feature either.

The MaxBoom has had a lot of very enthusiastic writeups for its sound, although I’m not enough of an audio expert to judge. Subjectively, though, it sounds very good. You may not rush to your local emporium to seek out the MaxBoom above any other competitor, but you absolutely won’t be disappointed if you’ve got it.