The portable Bluetooth speaker market has evolved significantly in recent years, with options ranging from budget-friendly party speakers to premium audio devices. Today, we're comparing the recently released (mid-2024) Morel BIGGIE ($299) with the established Soundcore BOOM 2 ($129.99) to help you understand which might better suit your needs.
Portable speakers have come a long way from simple battery-powered units with basic Bluetooth connectivity. Modern speakers now incorporate advanced features like customizable EQ settings, multi-speaker pairing, and sophisticated digital signal processing (DSP) - technology that continuously adjusts audio output to maintain optimal sound quality at different volumes.
The Morel BIGGIE showcases its audiophile heritage with a sophisticated two-way driver design - that means it has separate speakers for high and low frequencies. Its 1-inch soft dome tweeter (the small speaker handling high frequencies) and 4-inch woofer (handling bass and midrange) work together to deliver remarkably detailed sound. In practical terms, you'll hear subtle elements in music that might get lost with other speakers - things like the gentle brush of drumsticks or the breath of a vocalist.
The Soundcore BOOM 2 takes a different approach, focusing on impact and volume. While it still produces clear sound, it emphasizes the kind of powerful, energetic output that makes it perfect for parties or outdoor gatherings. Its dual passive radiators (additional speakers that aren't directly powered but move in response to the main speakers) help create stronger bass without requiring more power.
Bass response is where these speakers show their different design philosophies. The BIGGIE produces what audiophiles call "tight" bass - it's accurate and well-controlled, reaching down to 60Hz without becoming boomy or overwhelming. This means bass notes stay distinct and don't blur together, even in complex music.
The BOOM 2's bass is more pronounced and powerful, which many listeners might actually prefer for casual listening or party situations. It's not as precise as the BIGGIE, but it delivers the kind of satisfying thump that makes pop and electronic music exciting.
In home environments, the Morel BIGGIE really shines. Its careful tuning and superior detail retrieval make it excellent for focused listening sessions. The speaker uses custom DSP technology to prevent distortion at higher volumes, though some users report that the dynamic EQ (automatic volume adjustment) doesn't always work perfectly.
The BOOM 2 performs admirably indoors but might be more speaker than you need if you're primarily using it at home. Its party-oriented features like the beat-synced light show are more impressive in dimmer environments.
This is where the Soundcore BOOM 2 takes the lead. Its IPX7 waterproof rating means it can handle rain or even brief submersion in water. The louder maximum volume (thanks to its 80W power output) helps it project better in open spaces, and the emphasized bass remains impactful even outdoors.
The BIGGIE, while capable of playing loudly, isn't designed for outdoor durability. Its premium components and lack of weather resistance make it better suited for protected environments.
Both speakers feature Bluetooth 5.3, providing stable connections up to about 100 feet. The BIGGIE is future-proofed with pending Auracast support - a new technology that will allow multiple people to connect their devices to the speaker simultaneously.
The BOOM 2's PartyCast 2.0 feature allows connection of over 100 compatible speakers - though realistically, most users will never connect more than two or three.
The BIGGIE's battery technology focuses on quick charging, providing 4 hours of playback from just a 20-minute charge. While its claimed 20-hour battery life often ends up closer to 16 hours in real use, the fast charging feature is genuinely useful.
The BOOM 2 opts for longer battery life (24 hours) and adds power bank functionality to charge other devices - a practical feature when you're away from power outlets.
At $299, the Morel BIGGIE represents a significant investment. You're paying for superior sound quality, premium components, and careful engineering. If audio quality is your priority and you'll primarily use it indoors, it's worth considering.
The Soundcore BOOM 2 at $129.99 offers remarkable value, especially considering its durability and feature set. For most casual users, it provides more than enough quality while adding practical features like water resistance and power bank functionality.
Consider your primary use case:
For Home Use:
For Outdoor Use:
For Parties:
For Critical Listening:
Both speakers excel in their intended use cases. The Morel BIGGIE is a premium audio device that prioritizes sound quality and refinement, while the Soundcore BOOM 2 offers impressive versatility and features at a more accessible price point. Your choice should ultimately depend on how you plan to use the speaker and whether premium audio quality or practical features matter more to you.
Remember, the best speaker isn't always the most expensive one - it's the one that best meets your specific needs and use cases.
Morel BIGGIE ($299) | Soundcore BOOM 2 ($129.99) |
---|---|
Audio Power - Determines maximum volume and dynamic range | |
60W total (45W woofer + 15W tweeter) | 80W total with BassUp 2.0 technology |
Driver Configuration - Affects sound quality and clarity | |
1" soft dome tweeter + 4" woofer | Dual 20mm tweeters + 90x120mm woofer |
Frequency Response - Range of sound reproduction | |
40Hz-20kHz (detailed, balanced sound) | 45Hz-20kHz (bass-emphasized) |
Battery Life - Important for extended use | |
20 hours claimed (16 real-world), 2-hour full charge | 24 hours, 5.5-hour charging time |
Fast Charging - Convenience for quick top-ups | |
20 min charge = 4 hours playback | No fast charging feature |
Durability Rating - Critical for outdoor use | |
No water resistance rating | IPX7 (fully waterproof, can float) |
Weight - Affects portability | |
5.7 lbs (heavier, less portable) | 4.4 lbs (more portable) |
Bluetooth Range - Connection stability | |
165 feet (Bluetooth 5.3) | 328 feet (Bluetooth 5.3) |
Multi-Speaker Features - Party and expanded sound | |
TWS stereo pairing only | PartyCast 2.0 (100+ speaker connection) |
Additional Features - Extra functionality | |
Future Auracast support, premium build | Beat-synced lights, power bank function, app EQ |
Best Use Case - Primary intended purpose | |
Indoor audiophile listening, detailed sound | Outdoor parties, versatile everyday use |
The Morel BIGGIE ($299) offers superior sound quality with more detailed audio reproduction and balanced frequencies. The Soundcore BOOM 2 ($129.99) focuses on louder volume and enhanced bass, making it better for parties than critical listening.
The Morel BIGGIE costs $299, while the Soundcore BOOM 2 is priced at $129.99, making it less than half the price.
The Soundcore BOOM 2 offers 24 hours of playback, while the Morel BIGGIE claims 20 hours but typically achieves around 16 hours in real-world use.
The Soundcore BOOM 2 is IPX7 waterproof and designed for outdoor use. The Morel BIGGIE lacks water resistance and is better suited for indoor environments.
The Soundcore BOOM 2 is more portable at 4.4 lbs with a rugged design. The Morel BIGGIE is heavier at 5.7 lbs and less suited for frequent moving.
The Soundcore BOOM 2 offers PartyCast 2.0, connecting up to 100+ speakers. The Morel BIGGIE only supports basic TWS (True Wireless Stereo) pairing between two units.
The Soundcore BOOM 2 produces stronger, more emphasized bass, while the Morel BIGGIE offers more accurate, controlled bass response.
The Soundcore BOOM 2 has a longer range at 328 feet, while the Morel BIGGIE reaches 165 feet. Both use Bluetooth 5.3.
The Morel BIGGIE features fast charging (20 minutes for 4 hours playback), while the Soundcore BOOM 2 doesn't offer fast charging.
The Soundcore BOOM 2 is better suited for parties with its louder volume, light show features, and multi-speaker connectivity. The Morel BIGGIE is designed more for high-quality listening sessions.
The Soundcore BOOM 2 has a full-featured app with EQ controls and light show customization. The Morel BIGGIE doesn't require an app for operation.
For home use, the Morel BIGGIE is better if you prioritize sound quality and don't need portability. Choose the Soundcore BOOM 2 if you want a versatile speaker that can also be used outdoors and at parties.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: theabsolutesound.com - ecoustics.com - crutchfield.com - techradar.com - crutchfield.com - tpdhifi.com - audioxpress.com - nlp.stanford.edu - eisa.eu - muzix.eu - soundcore.com - audioholics.com - community.anker.com - trustedreviews.com - soundcore.com - manuals.plus - soundcore.com - youtube.com - community.anker.com - soundandvision.com