Short answer: the JBL Partybox Encore Essential. It ranks #8 of 112 boombox speakers by sound quality (rated 4.2/5) at $299.95 and is still sold new; the Demerbox DB2 ranks #74 (rated 2.8/5) and is discontinued, so it is only an option used.
The JBL Partybox Encore Essential is the better-sounding pick. A compact stereo party speaker with great sound, strong output, and splash resistance for backyard parties. It links with other speakers (PartyBoost up to 100 speakers), which the Demerbox DB2 cannot. It has an adjustable EQ, which the Demerbox DB2 lacks.
The Demerbox DB2 is the longer-running, lighter option. A nearly indestructible waterproof speaker built from a Pelican case, with a 40 hour battery and dry storage. It is rated for 40 hours of battery against 6 for the JBL Partybox Encore Essential. At 5.4 lbs (2.47 kg) it weighs much less than the JBL Partybox Encore Essential at 13 lbs (5.9 kg). It is rated IP67 against IPX4 for the JBL Partybox Encore Essential. The catch: Bass is not as deep as better speakers.
Buy the JBL Partybox Encore Essential. It is rated higher for sound quality and still sold new, while the Demerbox DB2 is discontinued.
Looking for alternatives? See the complete Portable Bluetooth rankings.
A compact stereo party speaker with great sound, strong output, and splash resistance for backyard parties.
A nearly indestructible waterproof speaker built from a Pelican case, with a 40 hour battery and dry storage.
Prices on this page were last checked October 31, 2026 at 7:11 PM UTC. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date/time and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
As an eBay Partner, we may be compensated if you make a purchase.
Specifications Side By Side
| JBL Partybox Encore Essential | Demerbox DB2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $299.95 | $400 Discontinued |
| Ranked | #8 of 112 in Boombox Size Portable Bluetooth Speakers | #74 of 112 in Boombox Size Portable Bluetooth Speakers |
| App | Yes (JBL PartyBox app) | No |
| Aux Input | Yes | Yes |
| Aux Latency | 17ms | - |
| Bass Extension (-10dB) | 38Hz | - |
| Battery Life | 6 hours (Manufacturer specified) | 40 hours (Manufacturer specified) |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth Codecs | SBC | SBC |
| Built-in Microphone | No | No |
| EQ | Yes (3 band App EQ) | No |
| IP Rating | IPX4 | IP67 |
| Bluetooth Latency | 100ms | - |
| Party Mode | Yes (PartyBoost up to 100 speakers) | No |
| Power Bank | Yes (USB-A, 5V/0.5A) | Yes (USB-A + USB-C) |
| Power Input | AC Power cord | AC Power brick |
| Stereo | Yes | Yes |
| Omnidirectional | No | No |
| TWS | Yes | Yes |
| USB Playback | Yes | No |
| Weight | 13 lbs (5.9 kg) | 5.4 lbs (2.47 kg) |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.1 | - |
| Amplifier Power | 100W RMS | 22W RMS |
| Dimensions | 10.9” x 12.9” x 11.5” (276 x 327 x 293 mm) | 10.6” x 9.7” x 6.9” (270 x 246 x 175 mm) |
| Drivers | 135mm woofer + 2x 44mm tweeters | 2x 3” (76mm) aluminum cone full-range drivers |
| Maximum SPL | 110dB (measured by Alan Ross Reviews) | - |
| Digital Aux Input | No | No |
| Strap | No | - |
| FM Tuner | - | No |
Related Speaker Comparisons
How JBL Partybox Encore Essential compares with other leading options: