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JBL PartyBox Encore Essential 2 vs Sony ULT TOWER 9

A

Product A: JBL

PartyBox Encore Essential 2

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B

Product B: Sony

ULT TOWER 9

53 of 96 known

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Every value links to where we found it.

Only differences

AJBL PartyBox Encore Essential 2

BSony ULT TOWER 9

General

5 of 8 differ

Series

PartyBox1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026The sheet places the speaker in the JBL PartyBox line.

ULT POWER SOUND2Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2025-04-09-Sony-Electronics-Introduces-Three-New-Speakers-in-the-ULT-POWER-SOUND-Range-Featuring-Global-Superstar-Post-MaloneRead 15 October 2026The release names the ULT POWER SOUND Series.

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

JBLPBENCOREESS2AM, JBLPBENCOREESS2EP, JBLPBENCOREESS2JN3Retailer pageamazon.com/JBL-PartyBox-Encore-Essential-Battery-Powered/dp/B0DSJXBMTCRead 15 October 2026US listing gives Model Number JBLPBENCOREESS2AM. The Euronics listing gives JBLPBENCOREESS2EP and the e-earphone listing JBLPBENCOREESS2JN.

SRS-ULT900, YY7864E1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Guide cover states Model YY7864E. The parts section and contents name the speaker SRS-ULT900.

GTIN / EAN

050036411059, 49689292249753Retailer pageamazon.com/JBL-PartyBox-Encore-Essential-Battery-Powered/dp/B0DSJXBMTCRead 15 October 2026US listing gives UPC 050036411059. The Global Trade Identification Number on the same listing is a different 14-digit code that is not stored. The e-earphone listing gives the Japanese JAN 4968929224975 for JBLPBENCOREESS2JN, which is stored too. Amazon US lists Audio Output Mode Stereo and 2 audio channels while ComparisonTables lists 1.0 (mono). The maker states no channel count, so audio_channels is left out.6Retailer pagee-earphone.jp/products/612079Read 15 October 2026Listing shows JAN 4968929224975 directly after the model title for JBLPBENCOREESS2JN.

0272429319233Retailer pageabt.com/Sony-ULT-POWER-SOUND-Series-ULT-TOWER-9-Party-Speaker-Bluetooth-in-Black-SRSULT900/p/221687.htmlRead 15 October 2026US listing for Model SRSULT900 gives UPC 027242931923. The AC-only 9AC has a different UPC and is not this product.

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

6 January 20252Press releasenews.harman.com/releases/jbl-solidifies-its-spot-as-theRead 15 October 2026HARMAN press release from CES 2025, Las Vegas, dated 2025-01-06.

9 April 20252Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2025-04-09-Sony-Electronics-Introduces-Three-New-Speakers-in-the-ULT-POWER-SOUND-Range-Featuring-Global-Superstar-Post-MaloneRead 15 October 2026Sony Electronics press release dated 2025-04-09, San Diego.

Status

Available3Retailer pageamazon.com/JBL-PartyBox-Encore-Essential-Battery-Powered/dp/B0DSJXBMTCRead 15 October 2026Add to cart is active.

Available3Retailer pageabt.com/Sony-ULT-POWER-SOUND-Series-ULT-TOWER-9-Party-Speaker-Bluetooth-in-Black-SRSULT900/p/221687.htmlRead 15 October 2026Listing is live with Add to Cart and a 898 USD price for the rechargeable battery version.

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Not available

Not available

SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Not available

Not available

Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

$329.952Press releasenews.harman.com/releases/jbl-solidifies-its-spot-as-theRead 15 October 2026The model table lists 329.95 USD for the PartyBox Encore Essential 2. The release text says the new speakers retail from 299 to 799 USD, and SoundGuys' CES report gives 299 USD for this model. The text range and the table disagree, so the per-model table price is used. ComparisonTables and SoundGuys' later deal article also give 329.95 USD as the recommended retail price.8Spec databasecomparisontabl.es/bluetooth-speakers/jbl-partybox-encore-essential-2Read 15 October 2026Lists MSRP 329.95 USD. SoundGuys also gives 329.95 USD as the recommended retail price. This is a list price and not a dated launch announcement.9Press articlesoundguys.com/jbl-partybox-encore-essential-2-deal-160412Read 15 October 2026Deal article says 229.99 USD at Amazon, down from its 329.95 USD recommended retail price. The article's tweeter size of 1.75 in does not match the maker sheet and is not used.

$899.992Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2025-04-09-Sony-Electronics-Introduces-Three-New-Speakers-in-the-ULT-POWER-SOUND-Range-Featuring-Global-Superstar-Post-MaloneRead 15 October 2026US suggested retail price 899.99 USD for the ULT TOWER 9 with battery. The AC-only ULT TOWER 9AC is a separate model at 749.99 USD.

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

€299.9910Press articlenextpit.de/deals/jbl-partybox-encore-essential-2-bestpreis-otto-jackpot-dealRead 15 October 2026German deal article of 22 Oct 2025 names a recommended retail price (UVP) of 299.99 EUR, including VAT. hifi.de and the Estonian Euronics listing show the same figure. This is a list price and not a dated launch announcement.

Not available

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

US, DE, EE, AU, NZ, JP3Retailer pageamazon.com/JBL-PartyBox-Encore-Essential-Battery-Powered/dp/B0DSJXBMTCRead 15 October 2026Sold in the US. Other markets come from the Telstra, JB Hi-Fi, Euronics, nextpit and e-earphone listings.4Retailer pagetelstra.com.au/accessories/speakers/jbl/encore-essential-2-partybox-speakerRead 15 October 2026Australian retailer page. It repeats the maker specification list, including 319.5 x 342 x 260.4 mm and 6.2 kg.5Retailer pageeuronics.ee/en/audio/portable-speakers/party-speakers/jblpbencoreess2epRead 15 October 2026Estonian retailer page, product code JBLPBENCOREESS2EP. Its specification tab agrees on 40 - 20000 Hz, 100 W, Bluetooth 5.4, 4722 mAh, 15 h, 3.5 h, IPX4 and 31.95 x 34.2 x 26.04 cm. It also says WiFi: No. The 8.25 kg weight on that page is the packaged weight and is not used.

US, GB, JP4Press articletechradar.com/audio/wireless-bluetooth-speakers/sony-adds-three-bluetooth-speakers-to-its-bass-hungry-ult-range-meet-tower-9-field-5-and-field-3Read 15 October 2026Launch article of 2025-04-09 names the powered Tower 9 at 899.99 USD and 850 GBP. The US market comes from the Sony press release and Japan from the NTT-X listing. No euro price is published for the battery model in the sources read, so launch_price_eur is left out.5Retailer pagenttxstore.jp/_II_SN16806247Read 15 October 2026Japanese listing for SRS-ULT900 gives release date 2025-05-16 and describes a splash-resistant top panel.

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Black3Retailer pageamazon.com/JBL-PartyBox-Encore-Essential-Battery-Powered/dp/B0DSJXBMTCRead 15 October 2026Listing offers Black.

Black3Retailer pageabt.com/Sony-ULT-POWER-SOUND-Series-ULT-TOWER-9-Party-Speaker-Bluetooth-in-Black-SRSULT900/p/221687.htmlRead 15 October 2026Listing and spec table give Black Finish. No other finish is listed.

Speaker typeiHome covers speakers made to stay in one place, including smart speakers. A speaker with Wi-Fi or a voice assistant can be of any type.

Party1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026Portable party speaker per the sheet title.

Party3Retailer pageabt.com/Sony-ULT-POWER-SOUND-Series-ULT-TOWER-9-Party-Speaker-Bluetooth-in-Black-SRSULT900/p/221687.htmlRead 15 October 2026Listing and the copied Sony page call it a party speaker with Party Lights, castors and karaoke inputs.

Audio

13 of 18 differ

Audio channelsiSound channels reproduced by one speaker. Pairing two speakers for stereo is separate.

Not available

Not available

Audio driversiPowered audio transducers in one speaker. Passive radiators are counted separately. Circular diameter and rectangular width and height have separate columns. Per-driver power must state continuous or RMS basis and battery or mains operation in the source note.

AJBL PartyBox Encore Essential 2

Driver type	Count	Diameter (mm)
Woofer	1	135
Dome tweeter	2	20

Source1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026Transducers: 1 x 5.25 inch (135 mm) woofer and 2 x 0.75 inch (20 mm) dome tweeters. No per-driver power is published.

BSony ULT TOWER 9

Driver type	Count	Diameter (mm)	Width (mm)	Height (mm)
Woofer	1	Not available	320	320
Midrange	2	120	Not available	Not available
Front tweeter	2	50	Not available	Not available
Rear tweeter	2	40	Not available	Not available

Source1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Specifications: 3-way, bass reflex. Woofer unit about 320 mm x 320 mm (1), midrange unit about 120 mm diameter (2), front tweeter unit about 50 mm diameter (2), rear tweeter unit about 40 mm diameter (2). No per-driver power is published. The guide does not describe a passive radiator, so the passive radiator count is left out. The TV Sound Booster section says the 4 front components (2 tweeters and 2 midrange) are disabled while that function is on.

Passive radiatorsiPassive, unpowered bass radiators. Excludes powered drivers.

Not available

Not available

Rated audio poweriMaker-published total rated continuous audio output. Battery power is used for portable speakers when mains and battery ratings differ. Peak marketing power is separate.

100W1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026Output power 100 W RMS (IEC60268). No separate battery and mains rating is published.

Not available

Rated audio power on mainsiTotal rated continuous audio output with external power. Store a separate battery rating when the maker publishes both.

Not available

Not available

Audio output power (unspecified rating)iMaker- or reviewer-published audio output power whose continuous or peak rating basis is not stated. This is separate from rated continuous output and explicitly published peak output.

Not available

320W7Retailer pageamazon.com/Sony-Bluetooth-Powerful-Convenient-SRSULT900/dp/B0DYB1BFRBRead 15 October 2026US Sony storefront listing, Pattern Battery Powered, gives Speaker Maximum Output Power 320 watts. Sony's help guide, press release and spec tables publish no audio power. The rating basis (continuous, peak or RMS) is not stated, so the value sits in the unspecified-rating field. The 153 W in the guide is power consumption, not audio output. One Indian listing names 520 W for the AC-only ULT TOWER 9AC, and Sony says the AC model gives more powerful sound.

Peak audio poweriExplicitly published peak audio output. Never substitute for rated continuous output.

Not available

Not available

Frequency response lower limit (claimed)iPublished acoustic frequency response limit. Tolerance and operating mode belong in the source note. The Bluetooth transmission range that some spec tables and retailers label Frequency Response, such as A2DP 20 to 20,000 Hz, is not stored.

40Hz1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026Published as 40 Hz - 20 kHz (-6 dB).

Not available

Frequency response upper limit (claimed)iPublished acoustic frequency response limit. Tolerance and operating mode belong in the source note. The Bluetooth transmission range that some spec tables and retailers label Frequency Response, such as A2DP 20 to 20,000 Hz, is not stored.

20kHz1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026Published as 40 Hz - 20 kHz (-6 dB).

Not available

Signal-to-noise ratio (claimed)

80dB1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026Published as > 80 dB. 80 is stored as the lower bound.

Not available

Adjustable equalizeriUser-adjustable frequency bands. Selecting fixed sound presets alone does not qualify.

Not available

Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Guide: select CUSTOM in Sound Effect in the Sony | Sound Connect app, then adjust CUSTOM EQ. CUSTOM is not available while TV Sound Booster is on.

Equalizer bandsiNumber of user-adjustable frequency bands. Do not count sound presets.

Not available

103Retailer pageabt.com/Sony-ULT-POWER-SOUND-Series-ULT-TOWER-9-Party-Speaker-Bluetooth-in-Black-SRSULT900/p/221687.htmlRead 15 October 2026Copy of the Sony page says 10-Band Equalizer controllable through the Sony | Sound Connect app. The UK EE spec table lists Custom EQ band: 10. The help guide gives no band count.6Retailer pageee.co.uk/help/tech/device/Sony/SRS-ULT900WirelessSpeakerRead 15 October 2026UK spec table reproducing Sony data lists Custom EQ band: 10, Volume Step: 50, and the same driver sizes as the help guide. It lists water protection as Splashproof with no IP rating. It lists Bluetooth 5.3, SBC, AAC and LDAC, 153 W power consumption, 410 x 910 x 456 mm and 29.6 kg, which match the guide.

Automatic sound adjustmentiAdjusts audio to placement or playback conditions. Keep the named feature and conditions in the source note.

Not available

Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Sound Field Optimization uses microphone sensing to detect noise around the speaker and adjust the sound. It is on at purchase and is turned off in Stereo Pair or Party Connect.

Sound modesiNamed playback modes. Battery extension modes are also qualified in battery source notes.

Bass Boost8Spec databasecomparisontabl.es/bluetooth-speakers/jbl-partybox-encore-essential-2Read 15 October 2026Lists one sound mode button, Bass boost.

ULT1, ULT2, TV Sound Booster, STAMINA1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026ULT button cycles ULT1 (deep bass), ULT2 (sense of power) and off. TV Sound Booster is a named mode for optical TV audio. STAMINA is a power option in the app that turns off lighting and sound effects including ULT POWER SOUND to save battery. No STAMINA playtime is published, so battery_life_boost_h is left out.

Wireless stereo pairingiTwo compatible speakers can play separate left and right channels.

Yes1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026Sheet says two speakers pair for true stereo through Auracast.

Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Guide: Stereo Pair needs 2 ULT TOWER 9 speakers. One plays left and the other right over Bluetooth.

Speaker link protocolsiNamed systems for linking compatible speakers, such as PartyBoost, Auracast or Party Connect. Linking support does not establish compatibility across all models.

Auracast1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026Sheet says the speaker links with other JBL Auracast-enabled speakers. No maximum group size is published.

Party Connect, Stereo Pair1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Guide names the Stereo Pair and Party Connect functions.

Max linked speakersiPublished maximum in a speaker group. A stereo pair is recorded separately. A figure such as 100+ is stored as 100.

Not available

1001Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Party Connect links up to 100 Party Connect compatible speakers over Bluetooth. Wireless Party Chain devices are excluded.

Max Bluetooth group speakersiPublished maximum speakers in one Bluetooth playback group, including the first speaker. Source notes name the compatible models or families, linking system and firmware requirements. Wi-Fi groups and concurrent Bluetooth source devices are excluded. A stereo pair alone does not establish the maximum when other Bluetooth linking systems are supported. A figure such as 100+ is stored as 100.

Not available

1001Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Same Party Connect statement: up to 100 speakers over Bluetooth. Whether the 100 includes the first speaker is not stated. The guide points to https://www.sony.net/partyconnect-dvc/ for compatible models, and that page returned Access Denied, so the compatible models are not named here. Each speaker needs the latest pre-installed software. Codec switches to SBC and multipoint, Sound Field Optimization and the USB, AUDIO IN and OPTICAL IN sources are off while Party Connect is on.

Connectivity

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Bluetooth audio playbackiPlays audio streamed over Bluetooth from a phone or other source. Bluetooth used only for setup or app control does not count.

Yes1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026

Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026

Bluetooth versioniVersion of the Bluetooth radio. Some Wi-Fi speakers use Bluetooth only for setup. See Bluetooth audio playback.

5.41Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026

5.31Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Supported BLUETOOTH standard version 5.3.

Bluetooth codecsiExplicitly supported receive codecs. Bluetooth version alone does not establish codecs.

Not available

SBC, AAC, LDAC1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Guide: SBC, AAC and LDAC for music playback over an A2DP connection. Party Connect forces SBC.

Bluetooth profiles

A2DP 1.4, AVRCP 1.6, TMAP 1.0, PBP 1.01Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026Published as A2DP V1.4, AVRCP V1.6(SW), TMAP1.0 and PBP1.0.

A2DP, AVRCP1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Guide lists A2DP and AVRCP. The UK EE spec table also lists SPP, which the guide does not, so SPP is left out.

Bluetooth LE AudioiExplicit LE Audio support. Bluetooth LE for app control alone does not qualify.

Yes2Press releasenews.harman.com/releases/jbl-solidifies-its-spot-as-theRead 15 October 2026Release and table list Bluetooth v5.4 with LE audio for the PartyBox Encore Essential 2. The maker spec sheet lists TMAP 1.0 and PBP 1.0 profiles.

Not available

AuracastiExplicit Auracast support. Sending, receiving and speaker-group roles belong in source notes.

Yes1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026Multi-speaker connection by Auracast. The sheet does not state sender and receiver roles.

Not available

MultipointiConcurrent Bluetooth source connections. Pairing memory and speaker-to-speaker linking do not qualify.

Not available

Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Guide describes connecting concurrently with 2 Bluetooth devices. It is not available in Stereo Pair or Party Connect.

Multipoint source devicesiMaximum concurrently connected Bluetooth source devices, not remembered pairings.

Not available

21Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Up to 2 Bluetooth devices at once. The speaker remembers up to 8 paired devices but plays from one at a time.

Bluetooth range (claimed)iMaker-claimed Bluetooth range to the source device. Test conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

30m1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Maximum communication range about 30 m (98.4 ft) in line of sight. It shortens with obstacles and 2.4 GHz interference.

Wi-FiiBuilt-in Wi-Fi, for audio streaming, setup or control.

No11Reviewtest-aankoop.be/hightech/draadloze-speakers/vergelijker/jbl-partybox-encore-essential-2/461/121090Read 15 October 2026Public spec rows list Wifi verbinding as Nee.

No3Retailer pageabt.com/Sony-ULT-POWER-SOUND-Series-ULT-TOWER-9-Party-Speaker-Bluetooth-in-Black-SRSULT900/p/221687.htmlRead 15 October 2026Quick Specs list Wi-Fi: No. The Sony help guide describes Bluetooth only.

Wi-Fi standardsiOne 802.11 name per item, such as 802.11ax. A Wi-Fi generation is written as its standard, so Wi-Fi 5 is 802.11ac and Wi-Fi 6 is 802.11ax. Older standards are listed only when a source names them.

Not available

Not available

Network audio protocolsiNamed systems that stream audio to the speaker over the home network. AirPlay is written as AirPlay 2. Chromecast built-in is written as Google Cast. Other names follow the maker, such as Spotify Connect.

Not available

Not available

USB audio inputiPlayback from a connected computer or phone through USB. Charging, service ports and USB flash-drive playback do not qualify.

Not available

Not available

USB drive playbackiPlayback of audio files on a connected USB storage device.

Yes1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026Sheet lists USB format FAT16 and FAT32 and supported USB formats.

Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Guide describes playback from a USB Mass Storage Class device formatted FAT (not exFAT) on the PLAY/CHARGE OUTPUT port. iPhone over USB is not supported. USB audio from a computer is not described.

USB audio file formats

MP3, WAV, FLAC1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026Sheet lists .MP3, .WAV and .FLAC and marks them not for the EMEA region. Japan lists WMA as well, which is not retained.

MP3, WMA, WAV1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Supported audio file formats are MP3, WMA and WAV.

PortsiPhysical speaker connectors. Record charging, audio input, power output and service roles separately. A shared microphone and guitar jack is one port. A combo jack that takes XLR and 6.35 mm plugs is 6.35 mm audio, and the role names XLR. Optical is a TOSLINK digital audio socket.

AJBL PartyBox Encore Essential 2

Connector	Count	Role
AC power	1	Mains power and battery charging
USB-C	1	USB drive music playback and power-bank output
3.5 mm audio	1	AUX audio input
6.35 mm audio	1	Shared microphone and guitar input

Source1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026Sheet lists AC power input, a USB port (charge out and playback), a 3.5 mm Aux-In and Mic-In and Guitar-In inputs.8Spec databasecomparisontabl.es/bluetooth-speakers/jbl-partybox-encore-essential-2Read 15 October 2026Lists one USB-C port for playback and power-bank output, a 3.5 mm AUX input, one shared guitar and microphone TRS input and an AC charging port. The maker sheet gives no connector type for the USB port. The Amazon product photo of the rear panel shows one USB-C port, one AUX IN jack and one microphone and guitar jack with a selector and gain knob.

BSony ULT TOWER 9

Connector	Count	Role
AC power	1	AC power input
USB-A	1	USB storage playback and charging output for other devices
3.5 mm audio	1	Audio input
6.35 mm audio	1	MIC1 microphone input
6.35 mm audio	1	MIC2 and GUITAR input
Optical (TOSLINK)	1	Optical digital audio input (PCM)

Source1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Parts list: AC input jack, PLAY/CHARGE OUTPUT USB port (Type A in the specifications), AUDIO IN jack (3.5 mm), OPTICAL IN connector (PCM, fs 32/44.1/48/96 kHz), MIC1 jack (6.3 mm) and MIC2/GUITAR jack (6.3 mm). The USB port and the optical, audio and mic jacks sit behind caps. The 6.3 mm connectors are counted as 6.35 mm.

Controls and software

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SpeakerphoneiBuilt-in microphone and call support, through a connected phone or a voice assistant's calling. A microphone used only for voice commands does not count. Microphone inputs for karaoke are separate.

No8Spec databasecomparisontabl.es/bluetooth-speakers/jbl-partybox-encore-essential-2Read 15 October 2026Lists no built-in microphone. The microphone input is for karaoke.

No3Retailer pageabt.com/Sony-ULT-POWER-SOUND-Series-ULT-TOWER-9-Party-Speaker-Bluetooth-in-Black-SRSULT900/p/221687.htmlRead 15 October 2026Spec table lists Built-In Mic: No. The help guide has no call function. The microphone sensing of Sound Field Optimization is not for calls.

Voice assistantsiVoice assistants explicitly usable through the speaker, such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri or Sonos Voice Control. State whether a connected phone is required.

Not available

Not available

Controls

Not available

Power, ULT sound mode, Bluetooth pairing, Optical input select, TV Sound Booster, Audio input select, USB input select, Party Connect, Stereo Pair, Lighting on and off, Lighting color selectors, Multi color lighting, Volume up and down, Play, pause and skip, Key control, Echo, Guitar mode, Microphone level knob, Microphone and guitar level knob, Battery level and Battery Care1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Parts list: power button, ULT, CHARGE indicator, direct function keys (Bluetooth, OPTICAL IN, TV SOUND BOOSTER, AUDIO IN, USB), MULTI COLOR, CONNECT, STEREO PAIR, lighting color selectors, KEY CONTROL flat and sharp, ECHO, LIGHT, volume minus and plus, play, MIC level knob, MIC and GUITAR level knob, GUITAR button and the BATTERY and BATTERY CARE button behind the rear cap.

Companion app

JBL PartyBox1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026Sheet names the JBL PartyBox App for music, EQ settings and light show.

Sony | Sound Connect1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Guide: Sony | Sound Connect app for updates, sound settings, equalizer, lighting, TV Sound Booster and party functions.

App platforms

Android, iOS11Reviewtest-aankoop.be/hightech/draadloze-speakers/vergelijker/jbl-partybox-encore-essential-2/461/121090Read 15 October 2026Public spec rows list an Android app and an iOS app. The Euronics listing says the app is on the App Store and Google Play.

iOS, Android1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Guide: download from the Google Play store or the App Store.

User firmware updates

Not available

Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Guide has a section on updating the speaker software through the Sony | Sound Connect app.

Built-in lightingiDecorative or ambient lighting. Status, battery, connection and microphone indicator LEDs alone do not qualify.

Yes1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026Dynamic light show with glowing light patterns and strobe effects.

Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Guide: the speaker lights up with the music. Lighting is on at purchase.

Lighting modes

Not available

Multi color, Red, Yellow, Green, Blue, Purple1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Guide: five lighting color selectors (red, yellow, green, blue, purple) and MULTI COLOR for the default multicolor mode. The app has a Lighting Mode function and Party Light functions that are not listed here.

Smart home

None of 3 known

Matter controlleriCan add and control Matter devices. Being a Matter device alone does not count.

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Thread border routeriConnects Thread smart home devices to the home network.

Not available

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Zigbee hubiA built-in Zigbee radio that controls Zigbee smart home devices.

Not available

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Battery and charging

8 of 17 differ

Built-in battery

Yes1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026

Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Guide: the speaker runs on AC power or on the built-in lithium-ion battery.

Playback time (claimed)iMaximum maker-claimed music playback on one charge in normal playback mode. Battery extension or reduced-bass boost modes belong in battery_life_boost_h. Record volume and lighting conditions in the source note.

15h1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026Up to 15 hours. The sheet says playtime varies by volume level and audio content and gives no volume or lighting conditions.

25h1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Guide: about 25 hours at volume level 18 with ULT1/2 on and lighting off over a Bluetooth connection, not in Battery Care mode. About 12 hours with lighting on at volume 18 and about 2.5 hours at maximum volume 50 with ULT1/2 and lighting on. Measured with a Sony specified music source.

Playback with battery extension (claimed)iTotal claimed runtime with the named battery extension mode enabled. Store the total, not only the extra hours. Keep sound and lighting restrictions in the source note.

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Battery energyiPublished battery pack energy. Do not calculate from an assumed voltage.

34Wh1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026Li-ion battery, 34 Wh (7.4 V / 4722 mAh). The sheet gives both figures. 7.4 V x 4.722 Ah is 34.9 Wh, a little above the stated 34 Wh. Both are stored as published.

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Battery capacityiPublished pack capacity at the voltage in battery_voltage_v. Do not substitute power-bank output capacity. A figure written per cell, such as 5000mAh*2, is not a pack capacity unless the maker states the pack figure.

4,722mAh1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026Li-ion battery, 34 Wh (7.4 V / 4722 mAh).

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Nominal battery voltage

7.4V1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026Li-ion battery, 34 Wh (7.4 V / 4722 mAh).

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Battery chemistry

Lithium-ion1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026

Lithium-ion1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Guide specifications and power section: built-in lithium-ion battery. Capacity in Wh or mAh is not published.

User-replaceable batteryiBattery that the maker documents as replaceable by the user. Service replacement does not qualify.

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Full charge timeiTime from discharged to full under the maker conditions. Adapter rating and simultaneous use belong in source notes.

3.5h1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026Published as < 3.5 hours with the speaker off. 3.5 is stored as the upper bound.

3h1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Guide: charging completes in about 3 hours from empty to 100 percent with the speaker turned off. Battery Care mode limits the charge to about 90 percent.

Quick charge duration

10min2Press releasenews.harman.com/releases/jbl-solidifies-its-spot-as-theRead 15 October 2026Release says a quick 10 minute charge delivers an additional 80 minutes of playback for the Encore 2 and Encore Essential 2.

10min1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Guide: 10 minutes of charging provides about 180 minutes of music playback.

Playback after quick chargeiClaimed music playback after quick_charge_min of charging. Source conditions apply.

1.33h2Press releasenews.harman.com/releases/jbl-solidifies-its-spot-as-theRead 15 October 202680 minutes of playback after 10 minutes of charging is stored as 1.33 hours, which is 80/60 rounded to two decimals. The release gives no volume or lighting conditions, and the spec sheet does not repeat the figure.

3h1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026180 minutes is stored as 3 hours. Conditions are volume level 18, ULT1/2 on and lighting off.

Charging input ratingiPublished speaker input voltage and current. An adapter rating alone does not establish device input.

100-240 V AC, 50/60 Hz1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026Power input 100 - 240 V ~ 50/60 Hz.

AC 120 V, 60 Hz in North America. AC 120 V to 240 V, 50/60 Hz in other regions1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Specifications, Power: AC 120 V, 60 Hz for North America. AC 120 V to 240 V, 50/60 Hz for other countries and regions. Power consumption is about 153 W and is not a charging figure. The battery charges only from the AC input jack.

Max charging inputiPublished maximum charging input. USB audio power requirements and adapter output are separate.

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USB Power Delivery charging

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Charges other devices

Yes1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026USB charge out 11 V / 2 A (max) with the speaker off. No watt figure is published on the sheet.

Yes1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Guide: a smartphone or other USB device charges from the PLAY/CHARGE OUTPUT port, also from the battery with no AC connected. It does not work when the battery is low.

Max power-bank outputiPublished power delivered by the speaker to another device. Output voltage and current belong in the source note.

22W8Spec databasecomparisontabl.es/bluetooth-speakers/jbl-partybox-encore-essential-2Read 15 October 2026Lists the power-bank function as one USB-C output at 22 W. This equals the 11 V / 2 A maximum on the maker sheet. The same page lists the USB port as USB-C, as does the e-earphone listing, while Euronics calls it USB-A.

7.5W1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Specifications, DC OUT: Type A USB port, DC 5 V and MAX 1.5 A. 5 V x 1.5 A is 7.5 W.

Wireless chargingiThe speaker battery can be charged wirelessly. Wireless power output to another device is separate.

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Durability

2 of 5 differ

Dust and water ratingiExact published IP rating. Keep separate ratings, such as IP68 and IP69, as separate entries.

IPX41Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026IPX4 splash proof.

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Floats

Not available

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Drop resistanceiExplicit maker claim or defined drop test. Do not infer from rugged wording.

Not available

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Drop test heightiMaker-published tested height. Surface and conditions belong in source notes.

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Carry featuresiPublished handles, straps, carabiners or wheels.

Grab-and-go handle1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026Sheet and features list a grab-and-go handle.

Carry handle, Caster wheels1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Guide: a handle and caster wheels. The wheels work on flat surfaces only. On uneven surfaces two people lift the speaker by the handle.

Measured

None of 6 known

Playback time (measured)iReviewer-measured playback per charge. Volume, lighting, sound mode, firmware and connection belong in the source note.

Not available

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Max sound pressure (measured)iReviewer-measured maximum SPL. Distance, test method and power source belong in source notes.

Not available

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Low-frequency extension (measured)iReviewer-measured low-frequency limit. Threshold and test method belong in source notes.

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High-frequency extension (measured)iReviewer-measured high-frequency limit. Threshold and test method belong in source notes.

Not available

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Audio latency (measured)iReviewer-measured source-to-speaker latency. Source device, app, codec, firmware and connection belong in source notes. App compensation may affect results.

Not available

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Full charge time (measured)iReviewer-measured time from empty to full. Power adapter and method belong in the source note.

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Dimensions and weight

3 of 3 differ

DimensionsiSpeaker body width, height and depth on explicitly identified axes. Unlabeled tuples do not establish axis meanings. Handle, strap and orientation conditions belong in the source note.

Width319.5Height342Depth260.4mm(12.6 × 13.5 × 10.3 in)1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026Product dimensions (W x H x D) 319.5 mm x 342 mm x 260.4 mm. Some other published sheets give a different height and weight. See the Amazon listing note.3Retailer pageamazon.com/JBL-PartyBox-Encore-Essential-Battery-Powered/dp/B0DSJXBMTCRead 15 October 2026Listing gives 10.25 in D x 12.58 in W x 13.46 in H and 13.7 lb, which matches the spec sheet. Another US retailer page (electronicsexpo.com) shows 319.5 x 338.6 x 263 mm and 6.4 kg for the same product, so the maker data is not consistent across sheets.

Width410Height910Depth456mm(16.1 × 35.8 × 18 in)1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Specifications: about 410 mm x 910 mm x 456 mm (W x H x D) including projecting parts and controls.

WeightiSpeaker mass including its battery. Excludes packaging, charger and removable carry accessories unless the source states otherwise.

6,200g(13.7 lb)1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026Net weight 6.2 kg. Gross weight with packaging is 8.25 kg.3Retailer pageamazon.com/JBL-PartyBox-Encore-Essential-Battery-Powered/dp/B0DSJXBMTCRead 15 October 2026Listing gives 13.7 lb (6.2 kg), which matches the spec sheet.

29,600g(65.3 lb)1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Specifications: mass about 29.6 kg including battery. Retailers list 65.26 lb. This is far above the peer median because the product is a floor-standing party tower on caster wheels.

Body materials

Post-consumer recycled plastic1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026Sheet says the speaker incorporates post-consumer recycled plastic.

Plastic (partly recycled)3Retailer pageabt.com/Sony-ULT-POWER-SOUND-Series-ULT-TOWER-9-Party-Speaker-Bluetooth-in-Black-SRSULT900/p/221687.htmlRead 15 October 2026Copy of the Sony page says recycled plastic originally developed for Sony is partially used for the body. Other body materials are not published.

Certifications

None of 1 known

FCC IDs

Not available

Not available

Other certifications

Not available

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In the box

1 of 1 differ

In the box

JBL PartyBox Encore Essential 2 speaker, AC power cord, Quick-start guide, Safety instruction and warranty card1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026Speaker, quick-start guide, safety instruction and warranty card, and an AC power cord whose quantity and plug type vary by region.

ULT TOWER 9 speaker, AC power cord, Optical digital cable, Reference Guide1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Guide names the supplied AC power cord, the supplied optical digital cable and a Reference Guide included with the product.

Links

Not compared

Product page

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Spec sheet

static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdf1Maker spec sheet (PDF)static.pcrichard.com/docs/PBENCORE2_Specifications-Sheet_01.pdfRead 15 October 2026JBL (HARMAN) product spec sheet, copyright 2025. The file is hosted on a US retailer server because the maker site is not readable here. The same sheet is hosted by a Russian retailer.

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Manual

Not available

helpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdf1Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/speaker/7864/v1/en/print.pdfRead 15 October 2026Sony English help guide for ULT TOWER 9, full print PDF read. Copyright 2025 Sony Corporation, 104 pages.

EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

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Warranty

0 of 1 differ

Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

1year3Retailer pageamazon.com/JBL-PartyBox-Encore-Essential-Battery-Powered/dp/B0DSJXBMTCRead 15 October 2026US listing: 1 Year Manufacturer warranty. Other markets are not covered.

1year3Retailer pageabt.com/Sony-ULT-POWER-SOUND-Series-ULT-TOWER-9-Party-Speaker-Bluetooth-in-Black-SRSULT900/p/221687.htmlRead 15 October 2026US listing gives a 1 year limited parts warranty and a 1 year limited labor warranty. The UK EE spec table gives 24 months. Other markets are not covered.

Both are also in the API. Back to all wireless speakers.