iLive Bluetooth Speaker System Review

Photo of author

If you need a Bluetooth speaker system for your desk, TV, game console, or music, you’ll want something that packs a punch. Most Bluetooth speaker systems come with a left and right channel speaker. Want more bass? Consider an upgrade to a 2.1 speaker system that includes a subwoofer.

The iLive Wireless Bluetooth Speaker System is a 2.1 channel sound system that features a subwoofer and LED lights. This speaker is small enough to fit into most places, but sounds large enough to fill a room with sound.

In this article, I will be reviewing the iLive Bluetooth Speaker System. The review will cover the specifications, features, sound quality, and a list of likes and dislikes. Finally, I’ll let you know if I recommend this product or not.

Note: This article may contain affiliate links for the products mentioned

iLive Bluetooth Speaker System (iHB23B) Overview

#CommissionsEarned

The iLive Bluetooth Speaker System (Model # iHB23B) is a wireless 2.1 channel sound system. Everything you need is included in this integrated system. Simply connect your devices with Bluetooth to start streaming audio. You can also hook up to your devices with the included 3.5mm headphone cable for a wired connection.

What’s In The Box

  • Left channel speaker
  • Right channel speaker
  • Subwoofer
  • 3.5mm to RCA audio cable
  • Warranty card
  • User guide

Specifications

BluetoothYes
Bluetooth Versionv2.1
Bluetooth Range33 feet
Number of Channels2.1
Audio InputsBluetooth, RCA
Equalizer ControlBass, Treble
Subwoofer Dimensions7.28″ x 8.86″ x 7.68″
Left/Right Speaker Dimensions2.95″ x 3.74″ x 9″

iLive Bluetooth Speaker System Review

This iLive speaker system is small, easy to use, and looks great. But don’t be fooled by the size. Since this 2.1 system has a subwoofer, you get a lot of sound and volume for your money. If you have a room that you need to fill with sound, the iLive system can be a great option.

Volume

The left, right, and subwoofer channels of this 2.1 sound system do a great job of delivering enough volume for a single room. If you need sound for your TV, shop, or bedroom, it works quite nicely for those purposes.

Clarity and Distortion

Since this is a 2.1 channel system, the low bass frequencies get handled by the subwoofer. That leaves just the mids and highs for the left and right channel. Because of this, you get excellent clarity, even at higher volumes. There is no noticeable distortion even at those louder listening levels.

Sound Quality

The small subwoofer is able to deliver surprising bass, although you can’t expect a speaker system of this size and price to rattle your neighbors windows! The left and right channel have good stereo separation and do a good job of delivering crisp mids and highs. Overall, the sound quality is better than expected for a speaker system in this price range.

Controls

On the side of the subwoofer you will find audio controls for volume, bass, and treble. On the top of the subwoofer you will find the power button, source selector, and Bluetooth paring button.

I found the controls to be easy and straightforward to understand and access. If I could change one thing, I would have preferred that the volume control be located on one of the main speakers instead of on the subwoofer. I think most people will simply pair with Bluetooth and control the volume with their device, so it may not be a concern for you.

Connectivity

Bluetooth pairing is super easy with the pairing button on top. My iPhone and other devices were able to detect the Bluetooth signal from a good distance away without an issue. You can also connect a device with RCA or a 3.5mm audio cable.

What’s really nice is that they include a 3.5mm to RCA audio cable. Any device with a headphone output jack can be used with this speaker system.

Looks

The blue LED lights are a great accent for any room. If you are fan of LED lights, this is the speaker system to get. If you aren’t a fan, I would look elsewhere, since the lights can’t be turned off when the speaker is in use.

The speakers are made of wood and plastic. The quality is acceptable for this price range. The smooth gloss plastic can be susceptible to finger smudges.

What I Liked

  • Multiple connection options, Bluetooth or RCA/3.5mm
  • Blue LED accent lights
  • Subwoofer adds bass that most speaker systems lack
  • Wood speaker cabinet construction
  • Bass and treble controls to fine tune the sound

What I Didn’t Like

  • Blue LEDs cannot be turned off while the speakers are in use
  • Volume control is on the subwoofer
  • The only color for the LED is blue

Bottom Line: Do I Recommend the iLive Bluetooth Speaker System?

For this price, it’s hard to beat the iLive Bluetooth Speaker System on sound or looks. The 2.1 channel system delivers more bass thanks to the subwoofer. That leaves the mids and highs for the left and right channel speakers, which do a great job at delivering crisp, clean sound to any room.

If you need a wireless speaker system for your desk, shop, or TV, this is a great option. The wood cabinet and blue LED accent lighting make a statement in terms of looks. Even if your device doesn’t have Bluetooth, you can connect it with the included 3.5mm to RCA audio cable.

Overall, I recommend the iLive Bluetooth Speaker System if you need a small system with big sound for one room.

Leave a Comment