Sound quality: JBL's PartyBox Encore Essential had Good overall sound quality - this model reproduces music and dialog reasonably well despite the obvious shortcomings in its sound. With the EQ settings in the JBL PartyBox app set for the most even tonal balance, bass has good impact and goes deep, but depending on the program material can vary from a bit to somewhat prominent and boomy. Midrange is even but is a bit grainy and hazy. Treble is extended but is a bit sizzly and smeared. Does a decent job of recovering room ambience but sounds a bit congested. There is no significant difference between Bluetooth, Aux and USB inputs. When two units are combined to form a stereo pair the sound stage can be made wider depending on placement. Provides a decent volume level in a large sized room.