Sony ULT Field 1 Review: Compact, Rugged, and Powerful Speaker with Impressive Features
One standout feature is the ULT Power Sound bass boost button, designed to deliver an intense bass experience.
The Sony ULT Field 1 portable speaker marks a fresh addition to Sony’s line-up of audio products, bringing together durability, portability, and powerful sound in one compact package. This battery-powered speaker offers up to 12 hours of playtime and comes equipped with Bluetooth 5.3 for seamless connectivity. Designed for on-the-go use, the ULT Field 1 boasts an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance, making it ideal for outdoor adventures, beach trips, or even just chilling by the pool.
Design and Build
At just 650 grams and measuring 20.6 x 7.6 x 7.5 cm, the ULT Field 1 is lightweight and compact, making it highly portable. It features a rugged, cylindrical shape with a woven fabric finish available in four colours: black, forest grey, orange, and off-white. The textured surface not only adds grip but also gives it a sleek and modern aesthetic. Designed for versatility, the speaker can be positioned upright or laid flat for a broader soundstage, thanks to its contoured elements.
The build quality is impressive, with rubberised edges that provide shockproofing—perfect for those inevitable drops and bumps. The speaker also includes a sturdy carrying strap, making it easy to take on hikes, road trips, or wherever your adventures lead. The USB-C charging port is smartly covered with a rubber cap to prevent water ingress, ensuring durability even in wet conditions.
Performance and Features
The ULT Field 1 comes loaded with features that enhance its usability and sound quality. It supports Fast Pairing with Android devices, allowing for quick and easy Bluetooth connections. The hands-free calling feature ensures you can take calls without reaching for your phone, and the DSD sound diffusion technology provides rich and immersive audio, filling any room with high-quality sound.
One standout feature is the ULT Power Sound bass boost button, designed to deliver an intense bass experience. When activated, it replicates the feel of a nightclub sound system, adding a significant bass punch that’s ideal for hip-hop, electronic music, or any genre that benefits from extra low-end oomph. Tracks like "Big Dawgs" by Hanumankind come alive with this feature, although it can be a bit much for older, more subtle recordings.
In addition, the Stereo Pair function allows you to link two ULT Field 1 speakers for a true stereo sound experience, creating a wider, more dynamic soundstage—perfect for parties or larger gatherings. The speaker is also compatible with the Sony app, which lets you customise the sound profile to match your preferences. While the app’s user interface could use some improvement, it does offer valuable customisation options.
Real-World Usage
During testing, the ULT Field 1 proved its resilience. I took it to Europe, including Samsung’s Galaxy Unpacked event in Paris, and used it extensively in Delhi's recent heavy rains. The IP67 rating truly came into play, as the speaker handled exposure to water and dust without any issues. It dried quickly and showed no signs of damage, underscoring its ruggedness.
The speaker's battery life is advertised at up to 12 hours, but in real-world conditions, with the volume turned up high, I achieved around 7-8 hours—a reasonable performance for a portable speaker of this size. The USB-C fast charging is a boon, allowing for quick top-ups, so you are never without your tunes for long.
Audio Quality
The audio quality of the ULT Field 1 is surprisingly good for a speaker in its size and price range. It handles a wide range of genres—from classic rock (like Derek & The Dominos, Cream, Pink Floyd, and Led Zeppelin) to contemporary pop and electronic music (such as Karan Aujla's "Tauba Tauba" and Sabrina Carpenter’s "Espresso"). The sound is rich and clear, with a pronounced bass that doesn’t distort at higher volumes. The speaker also excels in enhancing video content, whether you're watching Netflix, Apple TV+, or listening to podcasts and sports broadcasts.
Verdict
At approximately Rs 11,000, the Sony ULT Field 1 is a compelling choice for those looking for a portable speaker that combines design, durability, and powerful sound. It is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, offering a blend of features that cater to diverse listening preferences. While the Beats Pill and JBL Flip 6 may offer slightly better sound quality, the ULT Field 1 stands out for its ruggedness, portability, and solid all-around performance, making it a great value-for-money option.
