Makita Cordless/Corded Bluetooth Job Site Speaker

The Makita XRM08B Bluetooth Job Site Speaker has redefined my expectations for portable audio on the job site. As someone who spends a significant amount of time in various work environments, having a reliable and high-quality speaker is crucial. This Makita speaker has quickly become an indispensable part of my toolkit, thanks to its blend of robust features, sound quality, and durability.

Design and Build Quality

One of the first things that struck me about this speaker is its construction. Makita has a reputation for building durable tools, and this speaker is no exception. It features a water and dust-resistant design, which is essential for job site conditions. The protective bumpers add an extra layer of durability, making it capable of withstanding the occasional knock or drop.

The speaker is compact and lightweight, measuring 8-5/16" x 8" x 7-7/8" and weighing in at 7.4 lbs with a battery. This makes it easy to carry around from one job site to another. The handle is ergonomically designed, making it comfortable to carry even over long distances.

Connectivity and Features

The Makita Bluetooth Job Site Speaker is incredibly versatile in terms of connectivity. It supports Bluetooth for wireless connection to mobile devices and has an auxiliary port for MP3 compatibility. Additionally, it includes a USB port for charging mobile devices, which is a convenient feature when you're on the go and need to keep your phone or tablet powered up.

Pairing the speaker with my phone was a breeze. The Bluetooth connection is stable and reliable, although the range is somewhat limited. I found that the music would cut out if I moved more than 15 feet away from the speaker. This is a minor inconvenience, but it does limit the flexibility of wireless connectivity.

Sound Quality

The sound quality of this Makita speaker is impressive. For a speaker of its size, it delivers a rich, full sound with exceptional bass. The clarity and fidelity are top-notch, making it enjoyable to listen to both music and podcasts. I was pleasantly surprised by how well it performed even in noisy environments. The speaker has its own volume controls, separate from your mobile device, which allows you to fine-tune the sound to your liking.

However, it's worth noting that while the sound quality is excellent, the speaker may not be loud enough for some outdoor settings. If you're working in a particularly noisy environment or need to cover a large area, you might find the volume lacking. Indoors, the volume is more than sufficient, but outdoors, it could use a bit more punch.

Battery Life and Power Options

One of the standout features of this speaker is its flexibility in power options. It can run on Makita's 12V max and 18V LXT Lithium-Ion batteries or be powered using the included AC adapter. This versatility is fantastic because it means you can use the same batteries that power your other Makita tools, reducing the need to carry multiple chargers and batteries.

In terms of battery life, the speaker performs admirably. Using an 18V battery, I was able to get nearly two full workdays of continuous use. This is particularly useful for long projects where access to power outlets might be limited. The ability to swap out batteries ensures that the music never stops, which is a big plus in my book.

User Experience

The Makita speaker is incredibly user-friendly. The control panel is straightforward and easy to navigate, even with gloves on. The buttons are well-placed and responsive, making it simple to adjust the volume, change tracks, or switch between Bluetooth and auxiliary modes.

One feature I particularly appreciate is the small compartment in the back of the speaker, designed to hold and protect your phone while it's charging. This thoughtful addition keeps your device safe from dust and debris, which is a common issue on job sites.

Visual Appeal

While not a critical factor, the design and color scheme of the Makita speaker are worth mentioning. It sports the classic Makita blue and black, which matches the rest of my Makita tools. This might not matter to everyone, but for those who appreciate a cohesive look in their tool collection, it's a nice touch.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its many strengths, there are a few areas where the Makita speaker could improve. The Bluetooth range, as mentioned earlier, is somewhat limited. Extending the range would make the speaker more versatile and user-friendly.

Additionally, while the speaker supports MP3 compatibility through an auxiliary port, it would be even better if it could read MP3s directly from a USB device. This would provide more flexibility in how you play your music, especially if you prefer to keep your phone free for other tasks.

Conclusion

Overall, the Makita XRM08B Bluetooth Job Site Speaker is a robust and versatile addition to any job site. Its combination of durable construction, excellent sound quality, and flexible power options make it a standout choice for those who need reliable audio on the go. While it has a few minor shortcomings, such as limited Bluetooth range and volume, these are outweighed by its many strengths.

I wholeheartedly recommend this speaker to anyone who values high-quality sound and durability in a portable package. Whether you're working indoors or outdoors, this Makita speaker will keep you entertained and motivated throughout the day.