Deepblue3 features digital optical input while there is no digital input on the Exos-9. Also, the Bluetooth range is slightly larger on deepblue3. I have used AIWA EXOS 9 for a while now and got used to its sound. This being said, I didn't have two speakers on hand to test the full stereo setup and how it works, so I'll be describing the sound of the speaker while it is just one, and used as it is, priced at 300 USD. I have used more than one source, including my smartphone, Xiaomi Mi Max 3, and even audiophile DAPs like iBasso DX220 to test the EXOS 9. Another positive feature is the possibility to link two Aiwa Exos-9s together to enjoy stereo sound. But we couldn’t test this because we only had one unit. Sound But if you want to become nostalgic, you’ll have to take a little hit: The original manufacturer was sold to Sony in 2002 and ceased operations in 2006. In 2013, the brand rights were sold to “River West Brands”, which cooperated with “Hale Devices”. The latter company subsequently renamed itself “Aiwa” and is responsible for the device we tested.

Spoiler alert... the Exos 9 sounds significantly better. I have not found a portable, battery operated speaker that comes close. It’s easy to wonder why Aiwa hasn’t updated the speaker, but honestly it just sounds ridiculously better than all of its competitors. The dynamic range is fantastic. The sound is very powerful and natural. It gets significantly louder than the hyperboom with zero distortion and much more humph. Because of the subwoofer, the bass remains neatly beneath the mids. Also, because the mid’s aren’t responsible for pushing any passive radiators — they’re able to handle more of the vocals without relying on the tweeters (more on this later). With that all said, it isn’t water resistant and less portable than the hyperboom .Use Earplugs or Earmuffs: Wear earplugs or earmuffs to minimize the intensity of sound reaching your eardrums. These devices create a physical barrier between your ears and loud noises, effectively reducing the risk of hearing damage. You should keep in mind that the speaker has a beautiful bass, but also has very good punch and dynamics, and although you won't be able to ever take it for a trip in the park, you will be able to turn virtually any room into a true dance hall, the volume is really good, and this comes from someone who likes to listen pretty loud. In terms of desktop usage, you have a nice combination of factors that make EXOS 9 a really amazing speaker to use while sitting at your desk, or while having a party in your home. The Soundboks 3 is not very portable and is quite heavy, weighing in at 34 lbs. Although it is considered portable, it is not lightweight, making it challenging to carry around. The price tag is quite steep, but it can easily justify its cost compared to competitors. The speaker’s primary focus is loudness and the party environment, which may result in some muddiness in the treble with certain songs, depending on the production. This is primarily true for vocals that lie deeper in the mix.

Moreover, its cross-compatibility with other Ultimate Ears Boom devices enhances the sound quality and volume, ensuring an unparalleled audio experience. Additionally, the app provides extra features that can be easily controlled, adding to the device’s overall appeal. On the rear panel, there’s the AC input, Ethernet port, AUX input, and two USB ports for service purposes.The speaker also features so-called ToneMatch technology. ToneMatch is responsible for the automatic sound equalizations and allows you to have the best possible sound output, regardless of the speaker orientation and your surroundings. Example: Assuming that a speaker has 88dB sensitivity (at 1m/1W) and the peak power output is 250W, the max SPL (when standing 1m away from the speaker) is 112dB. How? Supplying 1W of power created 88dB, 2W creates 91dB, 4W creates 94dB, 8W→97dB, 16W→100dB, 32W→103dB, 64W→106dB, 128W→109dB, 256W→112dB.

Peachtree Audio deepblue3 and Exos-9 are similar in many ways – they have the same boxy design, the number (as well as the size and placement) of drivers is the same, and they have similar dimensions. They are also priced the same.This is the third version of the highly praised SOUNDBOKS speaker line. The manufacturer kept all the great features of the previous two SOUNDBOKS speakers (powerful battery, durable and rugged design), improved some things that were already very good (Bluetooth connection, sound signature, loudness), and added a few new features (wireless/wired daisy-chaining, mic inputs, app). Things we like