Milwaukee Bluetooth Speaker with PACKOUT Compatibility

When you're on the jobsite, music can be a great motivator, and having a reliable Bluetooth speaker that integrates seamlessly with your existing tools is a game-changer. Milwaukee's Bluetooth Speaker with PACKOUT Compatibility, model 2955-20, promises to deliver just that. As a devoted Milwaukee user, I was eager to test this speaker and see if it lives up to the brand's reputation for durability and performance.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing you notice about this speaker is its robust build. Weighing in at 23 pounds, it’s not exactly light, but its heft gives a reassuring sense of durability. The speaker is designed to integrate with Milwaukee's PACKOUT modular storage system, which means you can easily stack it with other PACKOUT gear. This feature is incredibly convenient for those who already use the PACKOUT system, as it eliminates the need for separate storage or transport solutions.

The speaker features a 3.5” woofer and a high-frequency tweeter, which are protected by sturdy wire frames. However, I did find myself wishing for some additional protection for the speakers during transport. Given the rugged environments these tools are often subjected to, a bit more shielding would have been a welcome addition.

Sound Quality

Sound quality is a critical aspect of any speaker, and Milwaukee doesn’t disappoint here. The audio output is clean and crisp, with a good balance of bass and treble. The volume can get impressively loud, making it suitable for noisy job sites. I found that even at higher volumes, the sound remained clear without significant distortion. However, it's worth noting that the lowest volume setting is still quite loud, which might not be ideal for quieter environments or early morning starts.

Functionality and Features

One of the standout features of this speaker is its ability to double as a battery charger. When plugged into an AC outlet, it can charge both M18 and M12 batteries, which is a fantastic feature for anyone already invested in Milwaukee’s battery ecosystem. The built-in USB port is also handy for charging your phone or other devices.

The Bluetooth connectivity is straightforward and reliable. Pairing my phone was a breeze, and the connection remained stable even when I moved around the job site. The speaker also includes an auxiliary port for those who prefer a wired connection, and it comes with an auxiliary cable.

The control panel is user-friendly with large buttons that are easy to operate, even with gloved hands. However, the preset radio station functionality could use some improvement. It only has a single button to cycle through stored stations, which can be cumbersome if you have multiple presets.

Performance

In terms of performance, the speaker delivers on its promise of durability and reliability. It withstood the rigors of a busy job site without any issues. The battery life is impressive, and a 5.0 Ah battery lasted all day on a single charge, even with continuous use. The built-in antenna did a good job of pulling in FM stations, though AM reception was less impressive.

One minor inconvenience is the location of the backup battery compartment, which is secured with a very tight screw. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it does make changing the batteries a bit of a hassle.

Portability

While the speaker is quite heavy, its integration with the PACKOUT system makes it relatively easy to transport. If you already use PACKOUT storage solutions, you’ll appreciate how seamlessly this speaker fits into your setup. However, if you’re looking for a lightweight, highly portable speaker, this might not be the best option due to its weight.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Excellent sound quality with clear audio and good bass
• Durable and rugged build
• Integrates seamlessly with the PACKOUT system
• Doubles as a battery charger for M18 and M12 batteries
• Reliable Bluetooth connectivity and easy pairing
• User-friendly controls and large buttons

Cons:

• Heavy and not very portable
• Lack of additional protection for speakers during transport
• Preset radio station functionality could be improved
• Backup battery compartment is difficult to access

Final Thoughts

Overall, Milwaukee’s Bluetooth Speaker with PACKOUT Compatibility is a solid choice for anyone looking for a durable, high-quality speaker that integrates with their existing Milwaukee tools. It offers excellent sound quality, reliable performance, and some very useful features like battery charging and USB ports. However, its weight and the need for better speaker protection are minor drawbacks.

Would I recommend this speaker? Absolutely, especially if you’re already invested in Milwaukee’s PACKOUT system and need a reliable, durable speaker for your job site. Its performance and features make it a worthwhile addition to any Milwaukee toolkit. However, if portability is a primary concern, you might want to consider other options.