Emphasis on compactness, in theory infinite surface area is ok but limited space-taking-up and litheness is the ideal
I have a Bose Soundlink Mini (I have the first generation one, but the new gen looks similar). Sound is clear and balanced at high volumes, though placement matters for that as well.
I have a Bose SoundTouch 10 and I really like it but I feel like there’s some truth to the “No highs? No lows? Must be Bose” saying.
I feel like the range is better on my wife’s Sony SRS-XB31.
Portable as in wireless? I think that JBL monstrosity takes the first spot, but it’s not exactly good in terms of overall sound quality. It’s just mostly amped bass.
Now if you’re looking to go really small I’ve got a Sonos Roam 2 which is pretty good. Don’t expect it to be thunderous in the bass department.
I feel like you’ve summed up my portable speaker experience pretty well: it can be loud and emphasize only bass, or loud with effectively no bass, and there’s not really a middle ground. Some have apps with basic equalizers, but that’s usually a price point thing. I’d honestly just go to Best Buy and try out what they have on the shelf to see how you like it vs how much size you’re willing to go with.
It’s discontinued, but the Bowers & Wilkins T7 is the most impressive bluetooth speaker i’ve ever heard…by a long shot. Not sure why they discontinued it, i sure love mine.
