
Sony adds three new speakers to its ULT line, featuring a built-in bass boost button.
Two medium-sized portable options and a new party sound tower will soon be added to Sony's Bluetooth speaker lineup.
Last year, Sony rebranded its portable speaker line under the ULT name, introducing new models classified as Field or Tower. The former corresponds to more "traditional" Bluetooth options, while the latter are designed for parties and karaoke machines. For 2024, the company has launched three new models in the ULT range: the ULT Field 3, the ULT Field 5, and the ULT Tower 9. The first two fill the mid-range gap between the ULT Field 7 and the ULT Field 1, while the latter serves as a more compact alternative to the ULT Tower 10.
The ULT Field 3 replaces the SRS-XE300. This model includes the ULT button, which allows immediate access to ULT1 mode for enhanced bass. Customizable equalization has also been expanded, along with sound optimization. Inside, it features a slightly tilted woofer and tweeter in the center, as well as two passive radiators at the ends. Unlike the XE300, which only functioned in a vertical position, the ULT Field 3 can be used in both vertical and horizontal orientations. It includes a new Party Connect button for easy synchronization with other Sony speakers and a USB-C port for charging devices. Battery life is maintained at 24 hours, the same as the XE300, but the fast charging feature has been improved to provide two hours of use in just 10 minutes. Additionally, this speaker is water, dust, and shock-resistant, and is also rustproof. Another addition is a detachable shoulder strap, while the price remains at $200, the same as its predecessor.
The ULT Field 5 is smaller than the ULT Field 7 but is still robust. This model replaces the SRS-XG300 and is priced at $330, which is $20 less than its predecessor. It has a woofer and two angled tweeters in the center, along with passive radiators at each end. It also includes a second ULT mode, ULT2, which "emphasizes powerful sound," in addition to the ULT1 bass boost. A 10-band equalizer and sound optimization help maintain sound quality, and the Party Connect button is also present on this larger model. Like the ULT Field 3, it can be used vertically or horizontally and features a detachable shoulder strap. Battery life is up to 25 hours, similar to the XG300, and the fast charging is improved to provide an additional 30 minutes with just 10 minutes of charge. This speaker features lights at the ends, which may affect battery life. According to Sony, you will achieve 25 hours using ULT modes with the lights off, but this drops to 10 hours if both are used. It also offers three lighting modes, along with several inputs and ports on a protected rear panel.
The ULT Tower 9 joins the ULT range by replacing the SRS-XV900. This model features expanded equalization, sound optimization, and two ULT modes. New features include a redesigned handle and wheels for easier transport, as well as an improved lighting system for 360-degree projection. In addition, the top control panel is splash-resistant and offers a Party Connect button. This model also allows the use of Sony's TV Sound Booster feature, which enhances room audio. The driver configuration includes four tweeters, two of which are directed towards the rear, along with two mid-range units and a single woofer. The price for the wireless version remains at $900, the same as its predecessor, while there is also a wired option priced at $750. Battery life is up to 25 hours in ULT mode and up to 10 hours with the lights on.
Lastly, Sony introduced the ULT Mic, a set of two wireless microphones and a transmitter designed for use with its party speakers, at a cost of $150. This new accessory is compatible with the latest ULT Tower speakers and the ULT Field 7, as well as older speakers that have a microphone input and receiver. The microphones are rechargeable, offer up to 20 hours of battery life, and feature a shockproof design. Additionally, they are equipped with a noise reduction system for hands, breathing, and wind, and come with a Duet Assist tool to compensate for uneven vocal volumes.
The ULT Field 3, ULT Field 5, ULT Tower 9, and ULT Mic models are already available on the market.