iLounge

Joining the pack of Jawbone Jambox alternatives this week is UE Boom ($200), the latest speaker from Logitech's Ultimate Ears division. As nice as the tube-shaped speaker looks in photos, it feels even better in your hand thanks to a wrap-around fabric front grille that changes in color to match or complement the rubberized plastic frame, with contrasting accents used for a UE logo tag and giant volume buttons. Like a couple of other recent Bluetooth speakers we've tested, one UE Boom can be paired with a second unit to create a wireless stereo sound field, or operate individually as a standalone 15-hour rechargeable battery-powered audio system. Speakerphone functionality is built in, and the integrated speakers promise 360-degree sound rather than just firing forward. A flat micro-USB recharging cable and matching wall adapter are both included.