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JBL has announced the BassPro Go2, a new version of its unusual two-in-one product: a powered subwoofer that docks into a vehicle, then pops out as a portable Bluetooth speaker. This one is built for boats as well as cars and trucks, with marine-grade protection and JBL’s app for the first time on a marine product.
- A docking powered sub (140 mm driver plus passive radiators) that doubles as a portable speaker with two full-range drivers.
- Rated 100 W, or 200 W peak in subwoofer mode, with up to 8 hours of battery.
- IPX4 splash resistance plus UV and salt-spray protection and a coated circuit board for marine use.
- Bluetooth 5.4, Auracast, JBL ONE app with three bass-boost settings and stereo pairing.
- JBL didn’t list pricing or a ship date in the announcement.
How the two-in-one idea works
In the vehicle, the BassPro Go2 sits on a 12-volt base plate that powers and charges it, and it acts as a compact subwoofer fed from your audio system. Lift it off the quick-disconnect dock and it switches to a full-range portable speaker for the beach, campsite or tailgate. JBL includes a remote bass control and an AC adapter for charging at home.
What’s new on the Go2
- Marine toughening: IPX4 splash rating, UV and salt-spray resistance and a conformal-coated board.
- App control: JBL ONE switches between full-range and subwoofer modes and offers three bass-boost levels.
- Modern wireless: Bluetooth 5.4 with a claimed outdoor range of around 98 feet, plus Auracast broadcast to other compatible speakers.
- USB-C: plays MP3/WAV from a stick, charges a phone, and handles firmware updates.
One naming note: JBL already sells a model called the BassPro Go V2. The new BassPro Go2 is a separate announcement aimed at marine use, so check the exact name and features when it appears at retailers.
How much bass should you expect?
A 140 mm (about 5.5-inch) driver with passive radiators is small for a subwoofer. In a car cabin, where the small space naturally boosts bass, it will add useful weight to factory speakers. On an open boat deck, with nothing to reinforce low frequencies, expect a fuller sound rather than deep, physical bass. If maximum bass in a car is the goal, a dedicated under-seat or trunk sub will do more. See our under-seat subwoofer picks, such as the JBL BassPro SL2.
Who it’s for
- Boat, side-by-side and truck owners who want one device for the vehicle and the campsite.
- Renters and leasers who don’t want a permanent install.
- Anyone adding modest bass to a factory system without wiring a separate amp. Our guide to adding a sub to a factory stereo covers the connections.
Our take
It’s a clever, practical product rather than a bass monster, and the marine protection and app control fix two common complaints about this kind of device. We’ll update this post with pricing and availability when JBL confirms them.