What makes an already fun water activity such as jet skiing even more fun? Music, especially when played on the best jet ski speakers in the market! Aside from making the sport more exciting, music also engages our brain areas that involve paying attention, making predictions, and updating events.
Exactly what we need when riding the jet ski – enhancing our focus, improving decision-making while on the waters, and keeping a tab of how fun the ride is. But how do we enjoy music on a jet ski?
Jet skiers have two options: headphones or jet ski speakers. However, headphones don’t count as a safe option considering you shouldn’t have anything to impair your hearing. Your best bet is sound systems fit for a jet ski. Read on to find out the best jet ski speakers to enjoy your rides with.
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How Can You Listen to Music on a Jet Ski?
Most of the newer models of PWCs are now equipped with Bluetooth speakers strategically positioned so the rider can enjoy the music. Then, there are also those jet ski speakers that you can carry with you and conveniently attach and remove from your jet ski.
Note that these aftermarket jet ski speakers and sound systems usually require an additional battery to your PWC. More importantly, these sound devices will all need to be waterproof.
Top 5 Best Jet Ski Speakers Reviewed
Since not many jet ski models come with factory-installed speakers, finding out an alternative is something many riders do to listen to music while jet skiing. We picked out five of the best jet ski speakers you can consider to be part of your jet skiing adventures.
- JBL CLIP 3 – Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker
- Braven BRV-Pro Portable Bluetooth Speaker
- Boss Audio Systems ATV25B ATV UTV Waterproof Sound System
- Sea-Doo New OEM PWC BRP Premium Audio System
- Ultimate Ears BOOM 3 Portable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
1. JBL CLIP 3 – Waterproof Portable Bluetooth Speaker – Best Over All
Specifications:
- Bluetooth Version: 4.1
- Max Playing Time: 10 hrs
- Output Power (W): 3
- Dynamic frequency response range (Hz): 120 Hz – 20kHz (-6dB)
- Dimensions: 3.8” x 5.4” x 1.8” / 0.46 lbs
- Battery Type: Lithium-ion polymer (3.7V/1000mAh)
- Charging Time: 3 hrs
Many water sports enthusiasts love this speaker because it can be easily attached to almost anything. Jet skiing is one of those water activities where the JBL Clip 3 can be used suitably. It has an integrated carabiner clip, so you won’t worry about losing it when traveling at speed.
The JBL Clip 3 is fully waterproof with an IPX7 rating. This means it can survive being dunked in and splashed with water. The IPX7 rating indicates that it can be submerged in depths of one meter for periods of up to 30 minutes.
This jet ski speaker comes in an excellent array of colors – black, blue, green, gray, pink, white, and sand. It comes with a built-in echo and noise-canceling speakerphone and playback and volume control buttons on top of the speaker.
When fully charged, the battery can last up to ten hours at moderate volume levels. That is up two hours from its predecessor, Clip 2, which lasts only eight hours. Clearly, it features a more improved battery life and better sound.
All of these features and more are housed in a durable casing. Its durability comes from the integrated carabiner framing the entire perimeter of the speaker that serves as a bumper. Overall, the JBL Clip 3 is a remarkable little speaker perfect for those whose life is on the waters.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Improved sound and battery life | A bit larger and heavier than its predecessor |
| Easy to carry around | |
| Fully waterproof and durable | |
2. Braven BRV-Pro Portable Bluetooth Speaker – Best Mounted Jet Ski Speaker
Specifications:
- Max Playing Time: up to 18 hrs
- Dimensions: 8.28″ x 3.18″ x 3.46″ / 2.5 lbs
- Dynamic frequency response range (Hz): 90Hz – 20kHz
- Battery Type: Rechargeable lithium ion
- Charging Time: 3 hrs
- Wireless range: 100’
Equipped with an integrated noise-canceling microphone for taking and making calls hands-free, the Braven BRV-Pro is more than just a waterproof jet ski speaker. Taking Bluetooth speakers to a whole new level, it is designed to mount on almost anything you can think of.
Built like a tank, this jet ski speaker can work with solar power adapters and regular power outlets. They are waterproof, rugged, and powerful. Its intimidating design appears like a military instrument meant to withstand explosions and is available in all black (with red highlights) or black and silver (with blue details).
The BRV-metallic Pro’s housing, which measures 1.5 by 2.8 by 6.4 inches and weighs about 1.5 pounds, is IPX7 waterproof—it can withstand splashes, water jets, and rainfall, but it’s not a good idea to submerge the speaker for long periods.
Another thing you’ll love about this jet ski speaker is how it comes with an integrated 5200 mAh power bank charger that lets you charge anything that will plug into the USB port behind its sealed cover. Also, its lithium-ion battery can handle 12 to 18 hours of wireless playtime.
It makes sure the rider feels convenient of not having to hold the phone to control music. Its waterproof controls for power, play, and volume are located on the exterior of the speaker. Overall, Braven BRV-Pro’s sturdy design makes an appealing jet ski speaker because of its ability to handle a beating.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Impressive audio output for its size | Digital signal processing impacts dynamics |
| Long wireless range | |
| Works with a wide array of outdoor-focused accessories | |
3. Boss Audio Systems ATV25B ATV UTV Waterproof Sound System – Best Semi-Permanent Jet Ski Speaker
Specifications:
- Bluetooth Version: 3.0 w EDR
- Power: 450 Watts Max Built-in Amp and 3.5mm Aux Input
- Dynamic frequency response range (Hz): 45Hz – 25kHz
- Dimensions: 9.5” x 26” x 7.5” / 12.45 lbs
For years, BOSS has been a prominent name in high-end speakers and stereos. They incorporated the same high-quality audio they’re known for into this rugged, water-resistant Bluetooth speaker – the BOSS Audio ATV25B ATV Speaker System.
This jet ski speaker is designed to withstand harsh dirt track conditions like dust, mud, water, heat, and impact. It is an all-terrain and all-weather speaker ideal for jet skis, ATVs, side-by-sides, and golf carts. It comes protected from heat, snow, dampness, muck, knocks, and rust by robust housing.
A built-in amplifier with a peak power output of 450 watts is included in this jet ski speaker. It’s a quality-sounding Class A/B amplifier. The secret comes from its unique linear circuitry that reduces distortions while improving power output and audio performance.
Install it to your jet ski using the adjustable straps that come with it. These nylon straps are used to secure the speakers. They are flexible enough that you can tighten or loosen them if needed. Its easy removal makes them a perfect non-permanent jet ski speaker system.
The ATV25B comes with a 3-year platinum dealer warranty. Overall, it is a pretty decent sound system you can use with your jet ski. The only drawback is that they aren’t entirely waterproof. It can be splashed with water but may completely stop working if submerged.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Weatherproof ATV speaker tube with built-in 450-watt Class A/B amp | Not entirely waterproof |
| Supports input from a wide range of Bluetooth and non-Bluetooth gadgets | |
| Produces high-quality music with plenty of bass and sweet highs | |
4. Sea-Doo New OEM PWC BRP Premium Audio System – Best for Sea-Doo
Specifications:
- Bluetooth Version: 4.1
- Output Power (W): 50
- Dimensions: 17” x 8” x 8” / 5.6 lbs
- Detailed fits on: Sea-Doo RXT, RXT-X, GTX, WAKE PRO (2018 and up) / FISH PRO (2019 and up)
If you own a Sea-Doo, the best option is to install an aftermarket OEM sound system. These after-sales jet ski speakers are built for saltwater use, featuring waterproof titanium tweeters and a 6.5” pressure washer-resistant subwoofer.
The Sea-Doo Premium Audio System connects to your iPhone or Android effortlessly through its BRP remote via Bluetooth. From this remote, you can pick your music and adjust the volume without needing to have your phone stuck in your hand.
Having said that, where do you put your phone, then? Since it is Bluetooth-connected, it should be that far away from the jet ski speakers. No worries, as you can stash it in the dedicated waterproof and shockproof glovebox between the supplied sheets of foam.
Mount it in the forward ends of the footwells to make the angles produce the best sound quality. The stereophonic sound is returned to your and your crew’s sitting positions. There is no significant loss of sound to the sides, nor does it cause undue inconvenience to other waterway users.
This jet ski speaker is a step forward of Sea-Doo in the PWC world. For starters, when compared to other manufacturers, this sound system choice has the most modest price tag.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fully submersible | It does not come with installation instructions |
| Two powerful 50 watts speakers for music clarity | |
| Remote control pad on left speaker to quickly and easily change songs and volume | |
5. Ultimate Ears BOOM 3 Portable Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
Specifications:
- Bluetooth Version: 4.1
- Max Playing Time: up to 15 hrs
- Dynamic frequency response range (Hz): 90Hz – 20kHz
- Dimensions: 3.5” x 3.5” x 8.9” / 0.46 lbs
- Battery Type: Lithium-ion polymer (3.7V/1000mAh)
- Charging Time: 3 hrs
Another set of speakers that is great for water adventures is the Ulitmate Ears Boom 3. They are lightweight, watertight, and shockproof. They have an incredible 360-degree sound quality and a powerful bass scream.
It is waterproof to IPX7 standards, which means it can withstand submersion in water up to 1 meter deep. It floats in water, so you won’t have any trouble finding it if it falls into the ocean as you speed up with your jet ski.
This jet ski speaker’s build quality is excellent, and the design has been completely revamped. Although the UE BOOM 3 is instantly recognizable as a UE product, there are a few differences between it and prior generations.
For one, the plus and minus buttons were removed from the soft plastic bumper that ran along the center of the jet ski speaker. Instead, a narrower plastic strip runs the length of its spine. The edges of this jet ski speaker come to a sharp point, and the entire speaker is fashioned more like a big soda can, unlike the previous model.
Among all the jet ski speakers on this list, the Boom 3 is the only one that does not have a microphone. If you are used to answering your calls via a speaker, you may want to take note of this. Although, it’s doubtful that you’ll tend to a call while on an exciting jet ski ride.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Portable bottle-shaped design | Separate app needed to control the speaker |
| Wireless charging available with the purchase of a dock | |
| IP67 certification and floats | |
Factory Installed vs. Portable Jet Ski Speakers
When it comes to jet ski speakers, the main drawback is the price. Because of Bluetooth speakers’ current popularity, the major players in the jet ski industry offer factory-installed speakers on their newer models.
However, the price tag that comes with it is crazy for a sound system. This is why most jet ski owners prefer portable jet ski speakers and aftermarket sound systems over factory-installed ones.
Aside from avoiding more significant expenses on factory-installed jet ski speakers, there are many other factors why jet ski riders prefer portable jet ski speakers. These include:
Portability – They are portable and handy that you can take them with you when you head to the beach and keep the music playing.
Size and color – These jet ski speakers come in several sizes and colors based on your preference. Because they are primarily pocket-sized, you can easily store them in the storage bin.
Waterproof – Most of today’s portable jet ski speakers are completely waterproof. They can be submerged in the waters, get splashed, and will still give the best sound. These models can really work suitably with a jet ski.
Sandproof – We all hate when the sand gets stuck in our belongings. Bluetooth portable speakers are built to repel that.
Easy installation – It is effortless to install portable Bluetooth jet ski speakers. Most of the time, you don’t even have to do any drillings. You can just clip and go.
Volume – Contrary to what most may perceive, these tiny jet speakers are loud. Most of them sound really good, even at speeds of up to 30 to 45 mph. But, it’s a totally different thing if you ride faster than that.
Safety and Legal Concerns with Jet Ski Speakers
For pull sports, certain states require you to have working mirrors on your jet ski, and since some individuals replace the mirrors with speakers, you might want to take a mental note of that. If you decide to add speakers to your jet ski, I recommend mounting them below the mirrors or to the side.
Moreover, keep in mind that loud music can be distracting. So, when playing music, be sure that you are aware of your surroundings. While listening to music in the car is common, it is totally different when out in the open waters.
Conclusion
Nothing beats having music with you when you’re out on the water and then being able to take it off your jet ski and listen to it later. This flexibility is what makes Bluetooth speakers the best jet ski speakers for many riders.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Are speakers on a jet ski worth it?
A: A jet ski speaker takes a lot more effort than a motorcycle or ATV speaker. Despite the disadvantages, many individuals consider them to be worthwhile.
Q: Which jet skis have pre-installed speakers?
A: Yamaha, Sea-Doo, and Kawasaki all considered the popularity of speakers so much that they have incorporated them in most of their newer models.
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Torsten Bird is a talented and adventurous waterman from Western Australia, passionate about surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, hydrofoiling, skimboarding, snowboarding and skateboarding. Torsten has spent countless hours mastering his skills and his dream is to one day represent Australia as an Olympic athlete. Follow Torsten’s adventures on Instagram.
