The Bose SoundLink Revolve Plus II (858366-5310) arrived on my desk promising 360° sound and a rugged build. Having spent several weeks putting it through its paces – from backyard BBQs to impromptu listening sessions in the office – I’m ready to share my comprehensive review. This Luxe Silver beauty certainly looks the part, but does it deliver on the audio performance and durability promises?

The Revolve Plus II boasts a sleek, aluminium design that feels premium in hand. Its portability is undeniable; it’s surprisingly light given its size and power. Key features that stood out include the IP55 rating (water and dust resistance), the incredibly long battery life (I consistently got close to the advertised 17 hours), and the seamless Bluetooth pairing process. The Bose Connect app adds extra functionality, allowing for stereo pairing and other customizations. The multi-connect feature is also a welcome addition, letting me easily switch between my phone and laptop.

The 360° sound is genuinely impressive. Music radiates evenly in all directions, creating an immersive listening experience, regardless of where you’re standing relative to the speaker. The bass is surprisingly deep and punchy for a speaker of this size, without overpowering the mids and highs. I tested it with various genres, from classical to electronic music, and it handled each with grace. Even at higher volumes, the sound remained clear and distortion-free. The built-in speakerphone also performed admirably, delivering crisp and clear calls.

However, there was a slight noticeable drop in volume when the battery level got below 20% indicating the battery management system is kicking in to ensure consistent playback. But this minor detail didn’t detract significantly from the overall excellent sound quality.

Pros:

• Exceptional 360° sound quality
• Long battery life (up to 17 hours)
• Durable and water/dust resistant (IP55)
• Premium build quality
• Easy Bluetooth pairing
• Bose Connect app functionality

Cons:

• Micro USB charging port (USB-C would have been preferred)
• Slightly noticeable drop in volume at very low battery levels.
• Price point might be a deterrent for some

The Bose SoundLink Revolve Plus II (858366-5310) is a fantastic portable Bluetooth speaker. Its exceptional sound quality, long battery life, and rugged design make it a top contender in its class. While the price is on the higher side, the overall experience justifies the cost for those who prioritize premium sound and durability. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a versatile and high-performing portable speaker. The minor drawbacks are easily overshadowed by its numerous strengths.