At CES 2025, JBL announced the latest iterations of its Horizon mini-speaker series and PartyBox party speakers. JBL Horizon 3 offers a sleek design with a frosted display which should be perfect for ambient lighting and sound, among other functionalities. Further, the PartyBox series gets the latest PartyBox 520, PartyBox Encore 2, and PartyBox Encore Essential 2 models.
JBL Horizon 3
JBL Horizon 3 features dual 1.5″ full-range transducers with dual passive radiators coupled with JBL’s signature stereo sound technology to offer deep, rich audio that could fill a room. It has Bluetooth 5.3 for wireless connectivity and Auracast support for multi-speaker connectivity.
JBL says the Horizon 3 can seamlessly blend into everyday lifestyle with its intuitive ambient lighting functionality and relaxing sounds like ocean waves. You can further adjust speaker functionalities like EQ mode, alarm setting, and FM through the JBL One App.
It comes in grey and black colorways and has a USB-C port for charging and a control knob at the top for intuitive controls.
JBL PartyBox 520, PartyBox Encore 2, and PartyBox Encore Essential 2
The top-end JBL PartyBox 520 delivers a maximum sound output of 400W, followed by the PartyBox Encore 2 and PartyBox Encore Essential 2, each with a 100W sound output.
This new lineup of PartyBox speakers features innovative technologies such as JBL Pro Sound, which optimizes audio output for dynamic bass and crystal-clear treble, and AI Sound Boost technology, which analyzes the music signal in real-time to enhance performance and push the drivers to their maximum capability.
These speakers offer symmetric and themed light shows, perfect for parties, and Auracast technology for connecting multiple speakers for an enhanced audio experience. When it comes to battery, JBL has gone with replaceable batteries for all models, that offer up to 15 hours of playback with fast charging support.
| Model | Specs | Battery Life |
| JBL PartyBox 520 |
|
Up to 15-hour playback + replaceable battery (FastCharge: 10min for 2 hours of playtime)
|
| JBL PartyBox Encore 2 |
|
Up to 15-hour playback + replaceable battery (FastCharge: 10 min for 80 min of playtime)
|
| JBL PartyBox Encore Essential 2
|
|
15 hours playback (FastCharge: 10 min for 80 min of playtime) |
Pricing and Availability
The JBL Horizon 3 is priced at 139.99 Euros / USD 129.95 (Rs. 11,145 approx.) and the rollout will begin May 2025.
The JBL PartyBox speakers will be available starting June 2025 and the pricing is as follows:
- JBL PartyBox 520 – USD 799 (Rs. 68,530 approx.)
- JBL PartyBox Encore – USD 399 (Rs. 34,220 approx.)
- JBL PartyBox Encore 2 – USD 299 (Rs. 25,645 approx.)
Regarding these new products, Carsten Olesen, President, Consumer Audio at HARMAN said,
The JBL Horizon 3 is designed to enhance any space and routine with JBL’s signature sound and thoughtful features. From customizable lighting to seamless connectivity, we’ve created a product that brings elevated sound and convenience into everyday moments.
JBL has solidified its position as the number one portable and party speaker brand by consistently delivering unmatched sound and innovation. This latest PartyBox lineup builds on that legacy, offering the advanced technology and durability that have made JBL the go-to choice for audio experiences worldwide. Whether at a large event or a small gathering, JBL continues to define what it means to bring people together through sound.