Big sound, big fun

Listening to music is something I do to an addictive level. Having audio systems connected to my computer, game consoles and mobile phones is necessary to get me through the day. But this is the first time I've had a party-oriented speaker blast my stress away. I loved it, but my neighbours might not.

I'm sure you've come across a few pocket-size Bluetooth speakers. The LG XBOOM XL7S is just like one of those, but 10 times bigger, 10 times louder, and with RGB lights to make things more fun.

This XBOOM has ample volume and bass. I found it too loud to blast music in shophouses (like where I live) at more than 40% volume as going higher may cause the walls to rattle and drive neighbours insane.

The XBOOM has an 8-inch woofer and two 2.5-inch dome tweeters that give out crisp sound with plenty of emphasis on low frequencies, delivering deep and bold sound.

There is a button that pushes the bass even further which may be perfect for late-night EDM parties. I personally prefer pop and easy-listening music, so I usually turned this "extra-bass" mode off because those kinds of songs do not really go well with too much. It is always good to have a choice though.

The RGB light effects are very chic and will suit teens and young-at-heart partygoers. There are around six presets to choose from on top of the speaker.

Normally you will connect the XBOOM to your phone to stream music, but LG also provides an optional companion app that you can download for equalising and light controls.

You can even connect a microphone or a guitar to join in the music if you choose.

This speaker can play up to 20 hours straight from full charge and it auto-shuts down in 15 minutes after not being used to save its battery. It will take 3.5 hours to fully charge the thing from dead to full.

Moving this speaker is a little awkward due to its enormous size and heavy weight, but having wheels on its base helps a little. And do not be a fool like me and carry the speaker home on the underground. It is way too heavy to transport long distances without a car. The thing weighs more than 15kg. This speaker can withstand water splashes and slight rain, so having a party in the open is doable.

I love this speaker for night parties, mini concerts, karaoke parties and events, but it is best to have a single house of your own separated from neighbours to take full advantage of its sound power.