Most Helpful Positive Review
Gen 2 Micro SoundLink
I actually have two of the Gen 1 Micro Soundlink speakers, so when they asked if I wanted to try the new one, of course I said yes! The first thing I noticed is that it is slightly larger. The strap is completely different, instead then the tight silicone strap that just unsnaps and snaps (with effort) once wrapped around anything, it is now a webbed strap that feeds through and loops back around, securing with velcro. While this does give more options of things you can secure it to, it is harder to get a snug fit, and the silicone strips on the back of the strap are ineffective in keeping it from sliding out of position, and rethreading the strap into the slot is challenging if you have stiff fingers. The old silicone strap had more give after repeated uses, which ultimately makes it pop open too easily if not strapped to something. I had found the perfect spot to strap the old one to and the new strap does not hold it as securely and often migrates / pivots instead of staying put like the old strap did. The button configuration has also changed, and I have mixed feelings, as they have inverted the power and Bluetooth buttons, and I had gotten used to the old placement. The buttons on top are completely different, and are labeled clearly, which might be the best change the buttons have, as it is more functional. There are now two small lights to indicate power and connection, with both staying on while in use. The power pulses during charging and stops and stays on when fully charged, vs the four lights that indicate power on the first version, which do not stay lit when in use. I use this speaker mostly at night, so I preferred the single light during use which was easier to block, and the placement of the second light, which is also the bluetooth indicator, is on the top, and not easy to block at night. The power announcement is brief on the new one, which I appreciate because, having it talk so long when turning on at bedtime was disruptive, so this is better, and not quite as loud. The battery itself has a longer life and holds charge better and longer, which is the best improvement by far. I no longer have to charge daily, and it uses 10% per night on average (to keep it playing all night long) so I can go several days between charging which is fantastic. I also like that it is now a USB-C input instead of the micro USB for charging. Overall, the new generation is an improvement and I really like the new version. I miss the old strap, for my purposes, but on the whole, the new version is pretty great.
