The iLive ISB172B is an inexpensive Bluetooth speaker featuring a 17-inch, soundbar-style design. Because it is powered by a battery, users can easily move it between different rooms or take it on the go. It supports both wireless Bluetooth and wired audio connections. Additionally, it features colored lighting that can be switched off when desired. This unit was purchased from Family Dollar in the United States.
Music Listening Performance
The iLive ISB172B is quite disappointing when it comes to playing music. Its sound signature is noticeably uneven, featuring exaggerated upper mid-range and treble frequencies that cause vocals and instruments to sound harsh. There is also a complete lack of deep bass performance. Furthermore, because it is a front-facing speaker, audio sounds muffled if you listen from behind. On the positive side, it can play stereo content and gets loud enough to fill a small room, though it lacks any in-app EQ features to adjust the sound profile.
Video and Movie Playback
When used for watching videos and movies, the iLive ISB172B performs poorly. Its high Bluetooth latency frequently results in noticeable lip-sync issues, particularly when paired with Android devices. While certain apps manage to compensate for this delay, the uneven audio tuning still renders dialogue harsh and unnatural. Moreover, the absence of deep bass robs cinematic sound effects like explosions of their necessary impact. Fortunately, the device includes a wired audio input to connect compatible hardware directly, which successfully bypasses Bluetooth-related delays.
Podcast and Voice Clarity
The iLive ISB172B is mediocre for listening to podcasts. Its emphasized upper mid-range helps voices stand out clearly, but this uneven tuning can also make spoken words sound piercing and unnatural. It gets loud enough for listening in a quiet, small room, although voices lose significant detail if you position yourself off to the side of the unit. It is also lightweight and very easy to carry around. Notably, the speaker lacks an integrated microphone, meaning users cannot issue voice commands directly through it.
Outdoor Use and Build Quality
The iLive ISB172B is disappointing for outdoor use. Although it is lightweight and simple to carry with one hand, its sub-par build quality raises concerns. The volume knob on the tested unit wiggles, and its protective cover detaches easily. There is also no official rated protection against water or dust intrusion, rendering it a poor choice for outdoor environments like the beach or poolside. Its battery lasts for less than six hours, and it simply does not get loud enough to entertain larger outdoor gatherings.
