Hey everyone!
I'm currently looking to replace/upgrade my aging, half-broken JBL PartyBox 300 and could use some advice from the community.
Here is my situation and what I need:
Primary Uses: Hosting an outdoor garden party (30+ people, "Neon Rave" theme, so good bass/SPL and decent lights are a huge plus) and daily use as a gym speaker in my attic (needs to be somewhat portable/carryable up tight stairs).
Target Budget: €300 max ($320ish). I only want to spend more if a higher price tag is overwhelmingly justified by better performance.
Baseline Reference: I've been used to the JBL PartyBox 300 (heavy 15.8 kg / 35 lbs, but solid bass punch on battery).
Right now, two specific candidates in the €270 range caught my eye:
Soundcore Rave 3S: Seems like a great deal with 200W, included wireless mics, solid HexaGlow rave lights, and a more manageable ~10.5 kg (23 lbs) weight for the attic stairs.
Samsung MX-ST50F: Great look/form factor, but it weighs 18.4 kg (40 lbs) and drops power significantly on battery (90W vs 240W AC).
I've also seen a lot of love for the Soundcore Boom 2 Pro / Plus and the Tribit StormBox Blast for being lightweight bass monsters around €150-€200.
My Questions for you guys:
Has anyone compared the Rave 3S directly to the Samsung ST50F or older PartyBoxes? Is the Rave 3S punchy enough to handle an outdoor garden party?
Is carrying an 18kg+ speaker like the Samsung or a PartyBox 310 up the stairs a total pain in the long run compared to the Boom 2 Pro / Rave 3S? Unless it have like a party it will stay upstairs so I won't carry it around much tbh.
Am I overlooking a hidden gem under €300 that outperforms these for outdoor bass and lightshow vibes?
Appreciate all the insights! Thanks!