Short answer: the Sony ULT Tower 5 for inputs and tuning, the JBL PartyBox 130 for wheels. The Tower 5’s balanced XLR and RCA inputs plus 10-band app EQ make it the better wired-source or DJ rig, and AudioTribe’s first impressions call its bass deep for the price. The PartyBox 130 adds wheels and a handle for frequent moves, while the Sony relies on carry handles alone, and the two are closely priced.
These are closely priced portable party-speaker alternatives. The Tower 5 brings a removable 20-hour battery, a 9-inch woofer, 10-band EQ and RCA, XLR, USB-C and microphone inputs. The PartyBox 130 emphasizes JBL’s familiar PartyBox controls, battery operation and wheels.
Choose the Tower 5 for inputs and tuning: Its balanced XLR input, RCA input and custom app EQ are meaningful advantages for a DJ setup or a wired source. AudioTribe’s first impressions also describe its bass as deep for the price, but do not substitute for controlled output measurements.
Choose the PartyBox 130 for easier rolling transport: Its wheels and handle suit frequent moves, while the Sony relies on carry handles alone.
Buy the Sony ULT Tower 5. It is rated higher for sound quality than the JBL Partybox 130 and costs less, which makes it the one to get unless you need something the other one does better.
Still deciding? The full Portable Bluetooth rankings cover every ranked option.
A powerful party tower with deep bass, a removable long battery, and mic and XLR inputs for karaoke or DJ use.
A manageable party speaker with balanced, powerful sound, deep bass, a removable battery and a light show.
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Specifications Side By Side
| Sony ULT Tower 5 | JBL Partybox 130 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $348.00 | $399.95 |
| Ranked | #5 of 51 in Party Size Portable Bluetooth Speakers | #7 of 51 in Party Size Portable Bluetooth Speakers |
| App | Yes (Sony Sound Connect) | Yes |
| Aux Input | RCA input | Yes |
| Battery Life | 20 hours (manufacturer specified) | 15 hours (Manufacturer specified) |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth Codecs | SBC, AAC, LDAC | SBC |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.3 | 6.0 |
| Built-in Microphone | No | - |
| Digital Aux Input | Yes (USB-C) | No |
| Dimensions | 14.1” x 21.1” x 11.1” (358 x 536 x 282 mm) | 22.6”H x 11.7”W x 11.9”D (575 x 298.4 x 303 mm) |
| Drivers | 3 drivers: 1x 9” woofer, 2x 2.4” tweeter | 2x 5.2” woofers, 2x 1” tweeters |
| EQ | Yes (10 band; ULT1 / ULT2 / Flat) | Yes (7 band) |
| Guitar Input | No | Yes |
| IP Rating | IPX4 | IPX4 |
| Microphone Input | Yes | Yes (Karaoke mode with echo effect) |
| Omnidirectional | No | No |
| Amplifier Power | 300W | 200W |
| Party Mode | Yes (Auracast) | Yes (Auracast) |
| Power Bank | Yes (USB-C charging) | Yes (USB-C) |
| Power Input | AC power cord | AC Power cord |
| Removable Battery | Yes | Yes |
| Stereo | Yes | Partially |
| TWS | Yes (Stereo Pair) | Yes |
| USB Playback | Yes (USB-A and USB-C) | Yes |
| Weight | 28 lbs (12.7 kg) | 24.9 lbs (11.3 kg) |
| Wi-Fi | No | - |
| Lights | Yes | Yes |
| Strap | No | No |
| Charging Time | - | 3 hours |
| Frequency Response | - | 40Hz - 20kHz (Manufacturer specified) |
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