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2018 BLUETOOTH GOLF SPEAKER | BUYER’S GUIDE
Do you like listening to music while you play golf?
The game of golf has always upheld traditional values of etiquette for decades, but in recent years this ideology has begun to shift. Digital technology has infiltrated the golf course, creating new ways to enhance and enjoy your round. Bluetooth Speakers are a part of that shift. Love them or hate them, their popularity is on the rise, and their use is becoming more and more acceptable at many golf courses.
Regardless of whether you walk or ride, the wireless speaker can add to your enjoyment of the game. The current market includes speakers of all shapes and sizes. Some offer golf-specific features like clips for your bag or cart mounts.
If you’re considering a purchasing a Bluetooth speaker for golf, this guide is for you.
FEATURES THAT MATTER
CARABINER: While not available on every model, speakers with a properly designed carabiner can be easily attached to a cart or bag. They can also be useful if you take your speaker off the course. The size and shape of the carabiner matters and so does how it attaches to the speaker. The PUMA Soundchuck is an example of a speaker that leverages a well-designed carabiner to improve the speaker’s versatility.
SOUND: (Omnidirectional vs Directional) When listening to your favorite song, you want to hear it from every direction. Speakers that only offer directional sound are limited to whatever direction the speaker is facing. We found that omnidirectional speakers were the best-performing on the golf course. Speakers such as UE MegaBlast and PUMA Soundchuck are great examples of quality omnidirectional speakers. Directional speakers such as the JBL and Ampcaddy are not as well-suited to the golf course.
DURABILITY: Anything portable needs to be long lasting because it’s going to get dropped from time to time. This means that the speakers must be able to withstand falls and absorb impact time and time again. The LifeProof Aquaphonics AQ9 is a great example of a durable speaker. Drop it, submerge it, cover it in sand, and it will still work without a problem.
CONNECTIVITY: No matter how good a speaker sounds, it’s only as good as its connection. The best speakers for golf allow for plenty of room to wander. UE MegaBlast and the PUMA Soundchuck offer superb Bluetooth connectivity. Connections were maintained despite 40+ yards of separation. This is definitely a feature that you want to consider if you carry your phone while playing.
BATTERY LIFE: How long does your golf speaker last when it’s unplugged and paired with your Bluetooth device? The typical range is between 8-12 hours but some like the LifeProof Aquaphonics AQ9 last up to 16 hours! For a day that starts at the course and ends at the pool this extra time can come in handy.
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SEE MY RESULTS
2018 Speakers Features Chart
| Name | Price | Colors | Waterproof | Shockproof | Battery life | Warrenty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AMPCADDY | $149.99 | 1 | Y | Y | 12 Hours | 18 Months |
| BagBoy Bluetooth Speaker | $39.95 | 1 | N | N | 5 Hours | NA |
| Bose Soundlink Waterproof | $129.95 | 4 | Y | Y | 8 Hours | 1 Year |
| JBL Clip 2 | $59.95 | 5 | Y | Y | 8 Hours | 1 Year |
| Lidl Bluetooth Speaker | $7.99 | 2 | N | N | 8 Hours | NA |
| Lifeproof AquaPhonics AQ9 | $99.99 | 3 | Y | Y | 16 Hours | 1 Year |
| October golf Splash Speaker | $29.99 | 1 | Y | Y | 12 Hours | NA |
| PUMA SoundChuck Mini | $79.99 | 3 | N | Y | 6 Hours | NA |
| UE MegaBlast | $199.99 | 4 | Y | Y | 16 Hours | 2 Year |
HOW WE SCORE
We’re always fine-tuning the process to make sure we’re collecting the best data possible. Continuing that trend we’ve updated and refined this year’s analysis to bring you the best buying advice possible.
We put in hours of testing utilizing data-driven protocols to test new metrics.
Over the course of the test, we played the same song over and over again with each speaker to determine who has the best quality of sound. In other categories we found out how far the Bluetooth connectivity would reach for each speaker To limit bias, we paid careful attention to the phrasing of the questions as well as the timing of when particular questions were asked.
Durability (25) – How long will the speaker last? The speakers that do well in this category can survive being dropped, getting wet, and the slow grind of everyday use. Speakers that do well are waterproof and are built to survive getting knocked around in the golf cart.
Sound Quality (50) – How clear is the music? The sound clarity is the most important part of the test because we want to listen to whatever is playing without any muffles or breaks in the song. Speakers that do well have no issues when playing songs and are loud enough that you can hear the music while on the green. Speakers that do not perform as well tend to have breaks and crackles or don’t provide robust sound that can be heard away from the cart.
User Friendliness (15) – How easy is the device to use straight out of the box? Even those of us who enjoy music on the course want to focus on the next shot, not our speakers. The speakers that do well in this category are so simple that the manual isn’t required. The speakers that didn’t perform as well aren’t particularly intuitive and require a reasonable amount of time to set up and learn the various buttons and controls.
Features (10) – How easy does the speaker fit within the cart and on a golf bag? When we play golf we do not want our speaker to be rolling around the cart and potentially breaking. Speakers that performed well in this category fit in the cup holder or were otherwise secure within the cart or bag. Speakers that did not perform as well either fit in a cart, but not on a bag or vice versa.
Final grades were awarded based on total scores. Best Overall is our highest overall scoring the best Bluetooth Speaker, and awards are awarded to the top three speakers. In addition, more specific Best in Class recognitions are awarded to speakers in certain categories (like best value) that push the industry envelope.
THE BEST BLUETOOTH SPEAKERS OF 2018
UE MegaBlast
"BEST BLUETOOTH SPEAKER OF 2018"
|
Sound Quality
|
1st |
|
Ease of Use
|
1st |
|
Durability
|
3rd |
|
Features
|
4th |
|
Total
|
95 |
Shop & Support
When you shop online consider using our special link. It helps support this site and other golfers around the world. #ConsumerFirst
What We Liked
The Ultimate Ears MegaBlast is the “BEST BLUETOOTH SPEAKER OF 2018″. The stylish speaker is on the larger side but it still fits inside a normal cart cupholder. The UE provides outstanding sound quality and retains that quality at higher volume levels due, in part, to its omnidirectional design. Setup is both intuitive and quick. The MegaBlast is the most expensive product we tested but its performance and versatility justify the additional cost.
Pros
- Premium sound quality
- Stylish unit with different color options
- Simple and intuitive smart device connectivity
- Omnidirectional design
- Optional charging dock
Cons
- The largest speaker tested
- The highest price speaker tested
- Not the best for walking/carrying as it only fits in your water bottle pocket
PUMA Sound Chuck
"BEST VALUE"
|
Sound Quality
|
3rd |
|
Ease of Use
|
1st |
|
Durability
|
6th |
|
Features
|
1st |
|
Total
|
90.5 |
Shop & Support
When you shop online consider using our special link. It helps support this site and other golfers around the world. #ConsumerFirst
What We Liked
The PUMA SoundChuck Mini is the “BEST VALUE SPEAKER OF 2018”, offering plenty of bang for relatively few bucks. Sound quality is excellent for such a small speaker, and the fashion-forward will appreciate the multiple color options. It is not the loudest speaker, but it’s not the quietest either. The PUMA can clip on with ease to your golf bag or fit in your cup holder and still produce quality sound. Connectivity is excellent, which makes it ideal for golfers who play with their phone in their pocket.
Pros
- Fits easily in your cart or bag with the same sound quality
- Easy to use
- Stylish speaker with different colors available
- 360° surround sound
- Functional clip for cart and golf bag
- Outstanding Bluetooth connectivity range
Cons
- Long cable cord can be cumbersome
Bose Soundlink Waterproof
|
Sound Quality
|
2nd |
|
Ease of Use
|
1st |
|
Durability
|
7th |
|
Features
|
7th |
|
Total
|
89 |
Shop & Support
When you shop online consider using our special link. It helps support this site and other golfers around the world. #ConsumerFirst
What We Liked
The Bose Soundlink Waterproof speaker offers outstanding sound quality even with the volume turned up. The speaker has a rubberized outer coating which helps keep it from sliding around inside a golf cart. The Soundlink provides easy connectivity for those who do not want to read the manual and want instant access to their music. It’s not without some drawbacks, however. It doesn’t fit well in every cart, nor does it fit well in most bags – and when it does, sound quality depreciates.
Pros
- Great looking speaker
- Waterproof
- Offers good battery life
- Easy setup
- Multiple colors available
Cons
- Doesn’t fit well in a golf bag and the sound quality is compromised when it does
- Can be hard to secure in a golf cart
2018 Bluetooth Speaker Buyer's Guide
The Rest of the Field
LIFEPROOF AQUAPHONICS AQ9 – If you are someone who, in addition to playing golf, likes to camp, or go to the beach, you should give serious consideration to the Aquaphonics AQ9. It attaches to nearly anything, its lightweight, offers good sound, and is nearly indestructible.
AMPCADDY – This speaker was specifically created for golf, and the company has done a good job of getting the product into the hands of various “social influencers.” Unfortunately, the AMPCADDY failed to live up to the hype. Connectivity is poor; often disconnecting only 10-12 yards from the phone (the best in category stayed connected up to 40 yards away). The directional speaker limits the sound quality. The clamp is excellent for attaching to a cart but limits the speaker’s versatility in nearly any other scenario.
JBL CLIP 2 – For the size of this speaker, the Clip 2 is one of the best tested. For only $59 this is overall a solid speaker option. Great for walking the course, the design of the carabiner limits functionality inside the cart.
BUDGET SPEAKERS – If you are just looking for something that makes a little noise, the 3 budget speakers (LIDL | $7, BagBoy |$25 and OctoberGolf | $29) tested are adequate though not remarkable.
Stu Innes
2 months agoWow – pretty refreshing to hear from all the folks who are concerned about politeness and etiquette on the course. I really want to be able to hear everything on the course like wind, birds, club striking the ball so I can enjoy my 4-5 hour investment of time, money and energy. I am always horrified by those who think nothing of blaring their noise into other peoples space.
Albert Eng
3 months agoI purchased the UE Megaboom 3 and I love it. I was the first of my golf group to buy it and two months later 6 more people have purchased it. It’s 360 degree sound, battery life, and durability is amazing. It’s rugged, waterproof it floats on water and you can drop it from the golf cart and it’s like nothing happened. I don’t play a round of golf without it.
Steven
5 months agoI’m 66 years old and been playing for about 35 years and I enjoy the relative peace and quiet during the round. I mute my phone and wish others would do the same. I have to say I have never heard music on the course. I like the serene feeling of a”Good walk spoiled”
Brian Valdez
10 months agoGreat article here, I use the Solar Bluetooth Speaker/Power Bank, ZeroLemon SolarSound found on amazon! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071KW889R/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_U_x_DcU.BbBAF2MPC It’s a great speaker that charges in the sun also!
Steven
5 months agoI’m 66 years old and been playing for about 35 years and I enjoy the relative peace and quiet during the round. I mute my phone and wish others would do the same. I have to say I have never heard music on the course. I like the serene feeling of a”Good walk spoiled”
Kyle
10 months agoThanks, your review is really helpful! Much appreciated.
And sorry, but I can’t help myself…”…standout of the pact” should read “standout of the pack”.
Brad
1 year agoSeriously? What the…
If you want to listen to music while you play golf, then feel free stick a set of wireless earbuds into your ear holes and dance your way down the course if you want to. Just don’t pollute the air for everyone else on the course, please.
Andrew
1 year agoSeems like the “pro”s are on here mostly discussing the article, while alot of the “anti”s are getting really upset about the mere thought of hearing music on a golf course- or even seeing a speaker- with more than a few threatening violence and one mention of a handgun. Seriously- if my tinitus makes silence unbearable at times and a little light music distracts my brain just enough, I think a simple shh or quiet down sign should be all you need- if you can even hear it. That would be respectful.
Dave
1 year agoHow about some headphones?
Andrew
1 year agoYou’re skirting the question, but here’s why- headphones and moreso ear buds close your ear canal and in doing so can really exaserbate the problem…
Bruce
1 year agoGuys – you can at least mention Decision 14-3/16 in this round up.
Tunes between shots are fine, but prolonged listening or during your swing eg. song at a good tempo is a breach of the rule.
Will you add non-conforming drivers to future most wanted tests? Or best leather wedges? Obviously those are extreme examples but to gloss over a potential rule breach of the rules is a bit cavalier.
Gordon
1 year agoI generally have no issues if someone wants to play some music on the course. But it needs to be kept at a low level, so its basically only audible at or near the cart, or ones bag IMO.
Now, during a legit competitive round, I don’t want to have it in my group or any groups near me, because it is actually a violation of the rules, and it can be distracting. I was recently in a competitive event, with a member who was not playing in that event, (just paired up) he played music… I let it go, but wasn’t thrilled about it. I also did not play to my normal handicap that round…not the music’s fault. He did keep it very low however.
Jimmy
1 year agoOMG! Encouraging music on the golf course no less. I hate it.
One of the joys of golf is getting away from the music that inundates us every time we go out in public.
It’s not music I hate, as I have an extensive collection, go to concerts, and enjoy it thoroughly. But there is a time and place for everything.
And your music may not be my music. It reminds me of the song “FM” by Steely Dan–“Somebody else’s favorite song.”
Joekelli
1 year agoYou guys need to test the UE wonderboom. Excellent speaker for it’s size.! Best purchase I have made in a long time! They can be found under $70 as well. Went to buy a jbl clip and walked out with the wonderboom. No comparison! Plus it is waterproof and floats!
KP
1 year agoBose Revolve+. Great speaker. I play 50 plus rounds a year and always ask the foursome I am with if they are ok with tunes. If not it stays off. Otherwise having some great music to be play by is very enjoyable. For the people who can hear music all over the course, I not sure what type of goat track where you are playing but the courses I play, no matter how busy I rarely can tell that there is anyone out there. And if we happen to catch another group it always gets turned down out of respect for the other players. Tunes are here to stay. Rock on baby.
"Mr. 72"
1 year agoI a 56 year old single digit hdcapper and have been playing golf for more than 40 years. I’ve been listening to music on the course for the past five years or so. I have a UE Boom which lools a lot like the UE in this review except maybe a tad smaller. It’s has excellent sound quality with very good battery life at 12 hours. After 4 or 5 hours it will still have 80% battery life left. It fits in a cupholder of a catt or Sun Mountain speedcart… or I can use the carbiner to clip it to my bag when I carry.
Fortunately, I haven’t run into any of these “get off my lawners”, so no one has ever asked me to turn the volume down or off. How about reviewing best music apps next, Harry. I’ll nominate Slacker – 18 holes without repeating a song.
Nocklaus
1 year agoThank you for a really nice test.
It’s got some comments and some pros and cons. I wish you would do something like that when you test clubs
B
1 year agoI concur. I love the quick paragraph and pros/cons with some tests, but omitting it on the critical items (like clubs) is noticeable and missed.
Tommy
1 year agoFirst we are loosing so many public golfers as it is, now you want music out on the course to chase away three foursomes for everyone with music blaring out of their carts. In my area 70% of the golfers are over 60 during the weekday rounds…90% of them enjoy golf and do not come out to hear Taylor Swift or worse Rap music blaring all over the golf course…want to see a few more public courses closed for lack of play…bring on the speakers…..just as private coolers are not allowed music devices should not be allowed…
Kevin
1 year agoNO GOD NOT THE RAP MUSIC!!!!!!!!
Oweno2
1 year agoREALLY…. I guess I’m an old fuddy duddy does not belong on the golf course. Put down your speakers your phone and enjoy the game and the course unless of course your the guy that yells out YOU DA MAN at every pga tour stop. I just missed that birdie putt because some yo yo just cranked up “Who let the dogs out”
CT Birdieman
1 year agoI’m in a foursome that enjoys having some light rock on, and if we go a few holes without it someone will speak up and ask for the tunes. Its on at a respectful volume and if we pull up to another group we ask them if it bothers them. We’re all 50+ years old.
I get people wanting quiet, especially if you’re walking a nice remote course. I don’t get the anger of those that call for smashing or shooting speakers because they don’t care for it themselves. Respect goes both ways and if you don’t care for it then ask them to turn it off, don’t get violent. If we want to grow the game we should be flexible about people enjoying it differently than we choose to. Its like the cigars and drinking comment – if one enjoys a beverage and smoke on the course and doesn’t infringe on others, its all good. Some of my best days on the golf course have included good friends, good music, a good cigar, and a good beer. What’s wrong with that?
Gorden
1 year agoNothing, Nothing is worse then a foursome playing music in front of you or behind you…or even in the fairway next to you…if you want music stay home…if golf is not enough fun for you try something else….
Jim
1 year agoBah Humbug Gorden. I am a similar age as CT. My group plays music all the time. It is never loud enouh so it can be heard 10 yards from the cart. It just fills the background.
ChrisK
1 year agoIn all honesty, just my humble opinion, but you’ve got your music on and you ask another group if it’s OK. Of course the majority of people are going to say it’s OK, they don’t want to take a chance of confrontation. And in their eyes (and mine too), they probably feel like it’s a 50/50 proposition to say please turn it off without you guys having snide comments or possibly getting angry.
Just my own experience: I was playing in a Monday evening dogfight at my home course, and our A player asked if it was OK if he played music. I didn’t want him too, but i didn’t want to come across bad either —so i said ” i suppose i can live with it” and he acted genuinely surprised that i even came close to asking him to turn it off.
I just want to say that I feel like all of you guys that like music on the course, you’re probably big time in the minority. The proper way to go about this is to NOT have the music on, and ask if anyone wants to hear any. That way you MIGHT get a straight answer (but still unlikely, because most golfers have etiquette at the front of their minds and don’t want to offend anyone in any way if they can help it). Otherwise, you’ve just got to believe you’re aggravating everyone around you.
MacJazz
1 year agoThat last paragraph is probably the most sensible I have seen in this entire thread besides the ratings of the “golf” speakers. That is why it didn’t get any responses. Dittos.
I have even confronted my boss about talking on the phone while at a scramble tournament where I am usually the “A” player. She expects me to make a good shot while the phone is ringing or she is talking. If it is not exemplary, she will mark the birdie anyway. I just told her it is not necessary for me to get out of the cart if the pencil is hitting the shots.
JimmyTim
1 year agoI have a few friends who, for some reason, can’t do anything without music or a tv blaring in the background. I mean, literally, I think they would have an anxiety attack if they had to spend 10 minutes in total silence. I know a few golfers with the same disease . . . just don’t understand it. A round of golf is one of the few times we get to put the regular daily noise of the world on hold for a few hours and really enjoy the serenity of nature while playing a game we love. Why spoil that?
Scott King
1 year agoCertainly there are rounds that need to be quite and peaceful and without music. But my Saturday game with the boys at my local is perfect for a few tunes.
Scott King
1 year agoThanks for the giants. My old Radio Shack speaker has given me 6 good years of service. It is dying and won’t last a full round. Need to find a new one
mackdaddy
1 year agoI have a JBL portable bluetooth speaker not designated a golf speaker and a velcro strap that I strap to the cart window pole and the sound is wicked awesome. It only cost me $16
William J
1 year agoGreat Article! A couple of my buddies were down at Streamsong and we were listening to music and having a good time. No issues!
Gary
1 year agoI Love listening to music, quite loud at times for hours on end actually, but not a fan on the course….I mean seriously, how am I gonna hear the birds, and screeches of joy, as well as the obscenities, if tunes block them out? 😉
How about “Forrrrrrre” WT!
I’ve heard tunes a few times…I’m all set.
Thanks
DJ Shack
1 year agoThe number 1, best choice speaker should have been NONE. Maybe I’m just an old grumpy guy but no f-ing way do I want to hear some moron playing music on the golf course. I do however suggest golfers do choose the smallest speakers available. They will be much less painful when shoved where the sun don’t shine.
Doug Nasur
1 year agoI agree with you!!!!!!
Caroline
1 year agoNO PERSONAL COOLERS< NO PERSONAL MUSIC SPEAKERS..and turn down the cell phones while your at it…..
Emery
1 year agoI really enjoy listening to college football or music “sometimes”, but it is never loud enough to hear close to the green if others are playing. Many interactive golf carts already come with music and video so you old guys need to prepare yourselves as the times they are a changing! I am 52 and walk/ride 50/50. I bet most of you carry a cell phone on the course.
ChrisK
1 year agoYou could be right, but as long as tour players get their caddy to chew people out for making racket, i don’t see this as anything more than a fad
Max Johnson
1 year agoI do carry my cell on the course, and my Wife hates that I dont pay attention to it. Its on silent and I check every couple holes to make sure there arent any emergencies. Other than that, the world does not exist while Im golfing
Gary
1 year agoSame here, the minute I get out of my truck, I shut the ringer off and stuff it in the velvet pocket. If I check it twice, it’s a miracle…. checking once is rare, and I’ve never actually talked on it while playing.
I did send an email once while waiting I think..
I have asked folks to turn their ringer off B4.
ChrisK
1 year agoThat’s me too. I carry it with me on silent, and i’ll hear a very small buzz when it vibrates due to a text or a phone call, but that’s it.
Dave
1 year agoI don’t understand all the anger of an article. If you’re not a fan of a speaker review, don’t read!
I appreciate the review and love the site
Leo Noordhuizen
1 year agoI am shocked. At first I thought that the title of this article was a teaser. I am very happy I have never encountered a ‘golfer’ feeling the need to disrupt the mostly quiet environment on a golfcourse. I would surely refuse to play with somebody with such behaviour.
P.J.
1 year agoAbsolutely not a fan of music on the course. I’ve played in a group, or even on a hole next to a group with music going. In the middle of my swing, I can hear a song change – then it changes my focus for a split second. If you’re thinking about it, then it’s bothering you – even if your thought is ‘that doesn’t bother me’.
Takes me back to my thoughts on inconsiderate, loud music in a car ‘did it ever occur to you that if I wanted to hear that song, I’d play it myself’?!?
I’d echo the sentiment that ‘most’ of the golfers with music are usually on the lower end of the skill meter.
HardcoreLooper
1 year agoI’ve played in my dad’s member-guest with some low single figures that were playing music. And no, I wasn’t about to call rule 14-3 on them because that’s just petty.
I personally don’t listen to music when I play, but I have no problem with people that do. And I’ve never heard music from another hole.
Stephen
1 year agoI agree with the many other comments. People playing music on the golf course disrupts others. R&A should bring back the long putter and ban speakers!
ChrisK
1 year agoI’ve noticed an uptick in guys playing with music going on at my own club. I was actually in a tournament a few months ago, and the two guys we got paired with played music. They arrived on the first tee, with the music going, and politely asked if the music bothered anybody. Of course at that point you feel like you might offend them by being truthful, and right on the first tee to boot!
So i said i’d be OK with it, and as the round wore on, it bothered me more and more. And I KNOW there were times during their own swings where the beat suddenly changed to some commercial and it screwed up their own shots. Heck, they would talk to each other and have to raise their voices just to hear each other over the music. It wasn’t booming or anything, but that’s just the way sound works. And don’t get me wrong here, these were some genuinely nice guys that were otherwise very friendly to be around.
I’m 47, and i don’t consider myself some old fogie, but maybe i am. Put me in the camp of folks that DO NOT LIKE MUSIC WHILE THEY’RE PLAYING GOLF.
Stu
1 year agoThis is definitely a tough topic to find a lot of support with.. obviously..
Me personally I’ve grown to enjoy some light background music on the course on occasion. Now let me preface that course etiquette and playing partners preferences hold 1st priority ALWAYS. Music is not a necessity by any means. The same goes for music preferences. To echo other comments, I would never bring music to a tournament (NOTE: charity events and tournaments are 2 different things). Playing by myself when course conditions allow, or with good buddies under leisurely circumstances only. That’s about it.
One of the most discussed topics today is “growing the game”. To us old schoolers, time on the course alone in silence with nothing but our own golf thoughts and nature is a welcomed moment. We know how to occupy 4+ hours with nothing but “thoughts of playing”. To a newby or potentially interested newcomer, music on the course might add to the appeal of the game.. or at least help with the relaxation piece that can still take years to master. With the growing age of technology, and the new age of youngster that will eventually be introduced to the game, what will allow the game to continue to gain appeal with the younger audience? Music may be one of those things. BTW, It’s inevitable that younger kids will be golfing. We can’t exclude the next generation or else the sport will become extinct.
I carry a speaker that was not on the list but I feel would have been a great candidate. It’s the ION Clipster Active. It’s small enough to fit in a cup holder, has a built in carabiner that clips nicely to a bag strap and is quite discrete when not inuse, and even comes with an piece that allows it to be attached to a golf cart beam or OS handle, AND sounds great considering its stature.
For all of those who think that this was the worst review ever posted on MGS, consider the direction that golf my need to go in order to stay relevant as a sport. I’m just saying that being opened to the idea that it can happen isn’t such a bad thing. 100 years ago, music in a car was probably a ridiculous thought too 🙂
HardcoreLooper
1 year agoI’m sure walk-up music at baseball games made some purists blanch, but now it’s part-and-parcel of the game.
Cap
1 year agoHow about the best wireless earbuds? Why in the world are we legitimizing imposing ones music on others when there is a way to listen to music without disturbing others? I’ve already been bothered 2 or 3 times by someone playing DJ on the course and this speaker movement hasn’t even gained traction yet–MyGolfSpy is now officially complicit in helping it along.
DJF
1 year agoThis. This is the correct question and take. Luckily my track forbids music on the course but if you’re so determined to listen to Welcome to the Jungle while you slice it off the 1st tee box after your second tranfusion of the day, you can keep it to your own ear drums.
jsilva
1 year agoMust we be always plugged in? Yeah, times are changing but always for the best. It’s going to get into a pissing match to see who’s speakers are loudest. Every golf course should ban speakers, it’s getting out of hand. Golfers always have the option to wear ear pods or headsets, that way you’re not bothering anybody. Call me a dinosaur but I enjoy the sounds of birds, water, wind, and even the mowers.
Glftips
1 year agoI have noticed that guys who play music are often the worst golfers in the group. Annoying.
Divot
1 year agoI bet you also said that about cell phones. Now everyone in your group has one and uses them during a round.
This technology is going to continue to grow and will become more prevalent on the golf course
steve cousineau
1 year agoear buds are great for listening to music. folks don’t play music quietly either…it carries, forces those who don’t want to listen to your music, or prefer sounds of nature or peace and quiet. music outside or to-go isn’t new–cellphone or smartphone comparisons are inaccurate.
Dave
1 year agoEveryone I play with puts their phone on silent. Music has no place on the course and I’m a Disc Jockey.
Jeff Franke
1 year agoI think music on the course has a time and place. Like having the radio on in your car. If I’m playing by myself, or casual game with the wife or a buddy, I like a little low volume tune to spark up the mood. If you can hear a cart on the next hole, or being a group away, its too loud and not considerate. Thanks for the review.
Robert Dwyer
1 year agoIf you can’t hit with a stick it’s not golf equipment! Please remember why you exist, If you want to be a music source go to XM radio, and leave us in peace and quiet the way it’s always been.
Harry Nodwell
1 year agoTimes are changing and we cover everything that is up and coming within golf. Golf speakers are one of them and we test according
Max Guajardo
1 year agoMusic while playing isa direct violation of the Rules of Golf…14-3 and decision 14-3/16….
If it’s friends hacking around, then turn the speakers down-no one else wants to hear your stuff if it’s a competition, at whatever level, it’s grounds for disqualification.
Dave
1 year agoGolf Speakers??? They were not made for golf. They have just been brought in to a game were they don’t belong. Heck they stop playing music in all sports when the action begins. Why should we have to put up with inconsiderate people that don’t respect the game. Leave the speakers at home where they belong.
Robert Dwyer
1 year agoHarry,
Times are changing yes, golf is still golf and music has no place in golf. If you insist on this foolishness do it with ear buds not speakers. Have some consideration for the true traditions of the game. To your point speakers are electronics not golf equipment, if you want to feature speakers maybe you should seek employment at Best Buy!
Matt Aamold
1 year agoWorst article you’ve ever had on your site. Hopefully courses will start banning speakers\music on the course.
Hughie Graham
1 year agoThanks for the timely review. I have been looking at upgrading my BT speaker and almost bought into the ampcaddy hype. Will check out the UE and Bose
ex007
1 year agoHow much do I have to donate to cancel all future testing of speakers and similar equipment that don’t belong on the golf course?
Glock
1 year agoI second this, I think this is the worst trend in golf. A sport where you see players stop and wait for fans to stop making noise with their loose change yet you guys are promoting to blast music on the golf course? This article doesn’t help to stop this trend nor encourage proper golf etiquette.
Harry Nodwell
1 year agoUnfortunately, the average golfer is not a professional and tends to play for fun with their buddies. They tend to relax after a long week at work and if music helps and no one else can hear it then there is no problem for those who do not like hearing music.
jsilva
1 year agoYou said the magic words Harry, “and no one else can hear it” good luck with that…
RSO
1 year agoI always find it interesting that the “THERE MUST BE SILENCE” idea is so entrenched. I guess crowd noise is why batting averages aren’t at .500+ in baseball, etc.
A little background noise can cover up the coughs/farts, crinkling snack wrappers, beer can top-popping and actually promote LESS surprise noise in your backswing.
Lighten up, Francis.
PS: Courses that outlaw all speakers will be off my play list. Why would they cheese off one customer group to appease another if there is no issue? Unless it is too loud, ask for a turndown or call a ranger to explain the etiquette to those that aren’t courteous.
jsilva
1 year agoRSO, “unless it is too loud”. What’s too loud to you might not be too loud for someone else. We can avoid all that, golfers who want to hear music have the option of using ear pods or a headset, that way everyone’s happy.
Jaxgolfer
1 year agoThe speakers on a phone is more than enough volume for a golf course. I’m there to enjoy golf not hear someone else’s music.
Martien Schwencke
1 year agoBeing a musician myself, I don,t se the relation with golf
i play with clubs and balls in the nature …,,,
John Muir
1 year agoEnjoyed the article. After quite a bit of research this spring, I bought the JBL Charge 3 for it’s quality sound, battery life, and it’s waterproof design. It fits into the ClubCar space behind the golfball holders which enhances the sound a bit (like a large speaker cabinet). Our course has quite a bit of distance between greens and tee boxes so nobody else can hear it and use it mainly during casual couples rounds/scrambles and for cruising around the subdivision.
NVW55V
1 year agoCheck out the Ultimate Ears (UE) Roll. The strap on the back makes it easy to hook to the golf cart’s windshield/roof support or the grab handle on your golf bag, you won’t leave it behind. Great for walking or riding. Water-resistant with huge volume controls. $99! It’s lasted 3+ tough years and has seen plenty of rain. Lasts 2 rounds on a single charge.
Mark Harr
1 year agoAn interesting metric to measure on these is if a 7-iron or sand wedge does more damage to each one.
Because if I see (or hear) any of these on the course, that will be the unavoidable result.
Golfer138547
1 year agoI’d say the wedge, because the clubhead is heavier. But bring the 7-iron, just in case.
ChrisK
1 year agoI’m not so sure — yes, the wedges are heavier, but the 7-iron is longer. With the additional clubhead speed the 7-iron will have, you’ll probably get better distance. Although it’s possible the chunks flying off the crap might be smaller, whereas the wedge might send larger parts flying, but shorter distances.
Boyo
1 year agoBeing an audiophile makes no difference, I am with you on this one.
Mat Davis
1 year agoI understand getting heated if you hear one, but SEEING one gets you upset?! Relax, dude.
Paul
1 year agoamen,keep this crap off the course
Name
1 year agoWhy would you ever think that other people on the golf course would want to hear YOUR music? Use headphones or turn it off. I hope a lot of golf courses ban these devices.
Mark
1 year agoWish there was a “like” button on this comment. I just think it is rude to assume everyone wants to hear your music. That is why they make headphones.
There was a guy at the range the other day playing his speakers and I just thought it was annoying.
Mat Davis
1 year agoThe one I’ve been using has not been tested, but I love it. It’s the Braven 405. It’s relatively inexpensive to buy, anywhere from $30-$80 depending on color and sales. I’m no audiophile so I can’t vouch that it’s the best quality sound, but it’s good enough (and gets loud enough) for my novice ears. But the BEST part about it is the battery will last forever. They advertise 24 hours and I’d say it gets pretty darn close to that, depending on listening volume. I use it around the house and on the course and charge it every week or so.
Harry Nodwell
1 year agoThank you for your comment Mat Davis. We go over each comment at the end of the year to see what we can add to the test for next year. We will keep this brand in mind for future tests.
Mat Davis
1 year agoI don’t believe it’s billed as “golf” speaker, but it is waterproof and all that. The size/shape can be a little awkward. I either throw it in my pushcart netting or in the golf cart cubby.
George
1 year agoI’ve been using the Bose for 5 years and it is great!!
Spitfisher
1 year agoMy sound chucks have two cylinder speakers, rather than the one pictured, great sound, they’ll play for 7+ hours, drop-able with the rubber coating shell. and they can be looped on the bag or golf cart with ease.
D.A.
1 year agoI have been involved in music all my life. Music is my first love with golf running second. Music takes the backseat on the golf course. Turn that sh t off!! Respect other players and most of all the game. All I’m asking for is a little RESPECT!! Go get em Aretha….
KM
1 year agoNo shite!
Mat Davis
1 year agoI get the criticism, you’ve probably been on a course where someone is blasting music that you can hear 2 fairways away. That is disrespectful.
I think you can be respectful with a small speaker though. Keeping the volume at a reasonable level is the first step. When I start approaching other golfers or get near another group, I turn the volume way down or just pause it until there is a safe distance. It doesn’t hurt anybody. Obviously, I only play music during casual rounds, generally when there aren’t a whole lot of people on the course.
thebigdad
1 year agoSorry. Not on the golf course. That is a place for golf not grooves. Well, you know what I mean.
Duffer E
1 year agoI have a Fugoo Sport. Works really well, great sound. It has everything MGS has said a good BT speaker should have, except the carabiner. However, the design of the Fugoo allows a carabiner to be attached to one of the cross bars at the ends of the shell.
Kent
1 year agoWow! Very surprised to not see the JBL Charge-3 up there. Waterproof and charges your phone with it’s amazing battery. Sound quality as well as able to connect multiple speakers. We usually have one in each kart. The range is awesome and supports us swinging clubs on opposite sides of the fairways lol! But I may take a look at the MegaBlast now. Thanks GolfSpy
Ben
1 year agocompletely agree. JBL charge 3 is solid.
Armando
1 year agoCHarge 3 is MONEY! I can play 4 rounds on one charge, it can charge your phone, syncs with other JBL speakers, Waterproof and takes a beating with excellent sound.
MikeDaTyger
1 year agoMusic on the course is certainly a love or hate topic. The key is RESPECT other golfers … keeping the volume to an “local” sound level/area. Blasting across the course does not accomplish anything but pissing other golfers off.
The JBL Flip 4 is outstanding. Waterproof and great sound. Multiple units can be synced in the home.
Fwiater
1 year agoThis is a good review but I don’t plan on using a bluetooth speaker for golf until I see them in use on the PGA tour.
HitTheHighdraw21
1 year agoNow you can start having fun on the course
https://youtu.be/Q6jY2psngGs
Fwiater
1 year agoThat’s not music BTW…lol There is a reason I still keep my .45 auto in the golf bag though. If all people want to do is make some noise I can join in with the fireworks.
mw
1 year agojust chill out, man
Paul
1 year agonope, shows lack of respect for other players, same idiots drinking beer (or worse) and stogies at 8am.
Fwiater
1 year agoI believe golf should be fun, but until the entire planet decides on one kind of music this will surely be disruptive to the other 75% of the planet, let alone disrespectful of the game. “Golf: A good walk spoiled” now comes with a soundtrack….not. I work in noise all day I like the peace and quite of golf as it was designed.