- Samsung debuts two Sound Tower models (ST50F and ST40F) at IFA 2025, portable Bluetooth party speakers boasting up to 240W of output with room-filling sound [1].
- Massive battery life for all-night parties – the larger ST50F runs 18 hours on a charge, while the smaller ST40F still gets 12 hours untethered [2] [3].
- Rugged, go-anywhere design – Both speakers are IPX4 splash-resistant for outdoor use and built with portability in mind (ST50F adds wheels + a telescoping handle; ST40F has an integrated carry handle) [4].
- Customizable lightshow built-in – Party Lights+ LEDs across five zones (woofer “racetrack” rings, tweeter rings, frame lines, base “crystal” lights, and even an illuminated handle) sync to the music with 5 mood presets and 6 dynamic patterns, creating a 360° light show to set any vibe [5] [6].
- Packed with party features – Both models include a DJ booth mode, karaoke mode, and even a guitar input to turn any gathering into a live gig [7]. You can also link two Sound Towers in stereo or chain multiple via Bluetooth Auracast™ Group Play for a wall of sound [8].
- Available starting September 2025 – Samsung’s Sound Tower ST50F launches at a $699.99 MSRP (around £649), and the ST40F at $499.99 (around £449), with sales on Samsung’s website and major retailers kicking off this month [9].
Overview: A New Portable Party Machine from Samsung
Samsung used the IFA 2025 tech expo in Berlin to introduce its all-new Sound Tower series, targeting music lovers who want big, party-ready sound both indoors and outdoors. The Sound Tower ST50F and ST40F are Samsung’s latest entrants into the growing “party speaker” category – large portable Bluetooth speakers designed to pump out loud, bass-rich music and dazzling light effects for gatherings. “The new Sound Tower sets a new standard in how consumers experience entertainment in both indoor and outdoor settings,” said Hun Lee, Samsung’s Executive VP of Visual Display, “with customizable lighting effects and an upgraded form factor that produces fully encompassing sound” [10]. In other words, Samsung built these as all-in-one party machines combining robust audio output, long-lasting battery power, and dynamic LED lighting to create an immersive party atmosphere.
Both Sound Tower models share a bold, tower-style design with a modern geometric shape and integrated LED accents. Standing a few feet tall, they’re meant to be focal points of your living room, backyard, or tailgate party. Samsung clearly has “party people” in mind – one tech reviewer quipped that IFA 2025 has been especially fruitful for this demographic, noting “JBL announced its first battery-powered party speaker…the PartyBox 720, and now Samsung is getting in on the action with its Sound Tower” [11]. In essence, Samsung’s new Sound Towers are built to bring the nightclub or concert vibes to your home gatherings, cookouts, and outdoor events – without needing a wall outlet or separate DJ gear.
Big Sound and Booming Bass: Specs and Audio Features
Don’t let the flashy lights fool you – these Sound Towers are serious audio performers under the hood. The flagship ST50F model cranks out up to 240 watts of sound, thanks to its dual 6.5-inch woofers and dual 1-inch dome tweeters (25mm each) built into a redesigned acoustic structure [12] [13]. Its “little” sibling ST40F still delivers a hefty 160W through dual 5.25-inch woofers and dual 0.75-inch (20mm) tweeters, plenty to get a backyard BBQ or living room dance floor thumping [14]. This significant wattage means the Sound Towers can reach high volume levels – as Stuff Magazine put it, 240W is “loud enough to drown out your neighbors, and clear enough that you’ll actually hear the bassline in your favorite track.” [15] In practical terms, these speakers can fill a large room or outdoor space with sound without breaking a sweat.
To tailor the audio to different environments, Samsung equipped the Sound Towers with multiple sound modes and customizable bass. There are four preset sound EQ modes – Standard, Wide, Stadium, and Outdoor – that adjust the dispersion and tone for different settings (for example, “Stadium” might simulate a live arena feel, while “Outdoor” projects farther in open air) [16]. Additionally, users can choose between Deep, Punchy, or Gentle bass modes to suit their music and preferences [17]. Samsung’s proprietary Waveguide technology on the dual tweeters helps distribute the high frequencies widely, creating a “wider, more even soundstage” with crisp treble throughout the space [18]. In theory, this means no matter where guests are dancing or mingling, they’ll hear balanced sound. “It certainly sounds like a solid perk in theory”, noted Gizmodo, though actual impact will need real-world listening to verify [19]. Still, the focus on wide dispersion and thick bass shows Samsung’s intent to keep the music powerful and enjoyable for crowds rather than just one sweet spot.
Crucially for party use, the Sound Towers are completely cordless once charged. The ST50F packs a high-capacity rechargeable battery rated for up to 18 hours of continuous playback, and the ST40F’s battery lasts about 12 hours on a charge [20] [21]. In practice, that’s enough for an all-night party or a full day at the beach or park without worrying about plugging in. Both models also feature Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity (with Samsung’s new Auracast support) to stream music wirelessly from phones or pair multiple speakers. In fact, you can link multiple Sound Towers via Auracast Group Play – great for synchronizing units across a large venue – or pair two units into a stereo left/right setup via True Wireless Stereo mode for real separation [22]. And if the single speaker isn’t hitting the volume you want, chaining a few together can create a “wall of sound” effect for larger events [23]. Audio inputs include Bluetooth streaming and a 3.5mm auxiliary jack, plus a microphone/guitar input for live performances or karaoke nights [24].
Despite their size and power, Samsung hasn’t forgotten durability and safety: both Sound Tower models carry an IPX4 water-resistance rating, meaning they can handle splashes or light rain [25]. A spilled drink or surprise drizzle won’t kill the vibe or the speaker – a must for outdoor and pool parties. It’s not fully waterproof (don’t toss it in the pool), but it provides peace of mind that a little moisture won’t stop the music. In sum, from an audio standpoint, Samsung is delivering a versatile powerhouse: booming bass, adjustable sound modes, wide dispersion, and enough volume to keep dozens (or more) of partygoers entertained, all without needing to stay tethered to an outlet.
Lights, Mood, Action: Immersive 360° Party Lighting
A signature element of the new Sound Tower series is the integrated light show. Samsung has effectively built a mini nightclub light rig into each speaker via its “Party Lights+” system [26]. The exterior of the units is lined with dozens of LED lights across five key zones: a “racetrack” LED ring that traces around the woofers, circular ring lights around the tweeters, line lights outlining the speaker edges, crystal lights at the base, and even a lit-up handle/control panel area [27] [28]. When the music plays, these LEDs can pulse, strobe, and glow in sync with the beat, effectively turning the Sound Tower into a vibrant 360-degree light column.
Users can choose from 5 preset “mood” themes and 6 dynamic lighting patterns via the companion Samsung Sound Tower mobile app [29]. For instance, you might select a “Festival” mood with energetic multicolor strobes, or a “Chill” mood with slower, softer hues – Samsung names patterns like Wave, Trail, Spark, Breeze, Flow and Flare [30] to cover a range of ambiances. The system actively analyzes the music’s beats and frequencies in real time to trigger lights that flash and change color perfectly in time with the rhythm [31]. The result is an immediate audiovisual experience: thumping bass you can feel and lights you can see pulsing to the same groove. It’s the kind of feature that can transform a living room or backyard into a dance floor at the press of a button.
Samsung clearly went all-in on the LEDs – “Samsung’s gone full disco-ball,” joked one reviewer, noting that the Sound Tower has “so many LEDs it could rival a Christmas tree.” [32] The glowing handle on top even serves a dual purpose: it not only illuminates the control buttons but also can prop up a smartphone or tablet, effectively acting as a built-in DJ stand or karaoke lyrics screen [33]. These thoughtful touches show Samsung envisioning the speaker as the centerpiece of the party, both sonically and visually.
Beyond pure aesthetics, the Sound Tower’s lighting features have practical party uses. Want to elevate your karaoke night? Switch on Karaoke Mode, kill the room lights, and let the Sound Tower’s LEDs make you feel like you’re on stage – the lights will “transform a party into an immersive audiovisual experience,” Samsung says [34]. Throwing a pool party? Set the mood lighting to an ocean blue “breeze” pattern and let the music sync up the splashes. The built-in DJ sound effects mode can also trigger cheering crowd noises or scratching effects through the speaker, accompanied by matching light flashes, to hype up the crowd between tracks [35]. While LED strobes and color fades are not new to party speakers, Samsung’s implementation is notably comprehensive and customizable. As Gizmodo wryly noted, reacting lights are “not groundbreaking for a Bluetooth speaker, but still pretty fun if you’re half a keg deep and into the sloppy karaoke part of the night.” [36] In short, the Sound Tower’s lightshow is all about fun and personalization – it can be as subtle or as over-the-top as you like, ensuring your speaker looks as exciting as it sounds.
Portable Design for Indoor/Outdoor Use
Despite their high output, the Sound Towers are built with portability and flexibility in mind. Samsung calls the design philosophy “Grip & Roll”, indicating how easy it should be to grab the speaker and take the party on the go [37]. The ST50F, being the larger unit (~37 lbs, according to one report), comes with a set of built-in wheels and a telescoping luggage-style handle, much like a rolling suitcase [38] [39]. This allows users to tilt and roll the speaker around – a useful feature given its size and heft (no one wants to carry a 240W speaker very far!). In a humorous aside, The Verge quipped about the ST50F’s wheels: “The ST50F may have wheels, but can it do a kickflip?” [40] – highlighting the almost boombox-meets-travel-case form. The ST40F, being smaller and lighter (~25 lbs), forgoes wheels but includes an integrated top handle molded into the unit [41]. According to Samsung, that handle is shaped and lit such that you can sling the ST40F over your shoulder to tote it to the next party [42]. Both models have a recessed groove or grip at the bottom as well, aiding in lifting them. The overall aesthetic is a bold, monolithic tower with angular accents – equal parts functional and attention-grabbing.
The idea is that these speakers can move easily from living room to backyard to tailgate. They operate wirelessly on battery, so you can set one on your apartment balcony for a sunset gathering, then throw it in the trunk and bring it to a friend’s house party later. Their durable build and water-resistance mean they can handle outdoor environments – whether it’s beach sand, park grass, or a bit of rain at a campground. Samsung even markets them for both indoor and outdoor settings in the same breath [43]. Use-case scenarios include everything from “backyard barbecues to packed dance floors,” as Samsung put it [44]. With power to entertain a crowd yet the ability to be carried or wheeled by one person, the Sound Towers fill a niche for large-format sound in a semi-portable package. They’re not tiny by any stretch, but compared to needing a full DJ PA system, they are extremely convenient.
The speakers also integrate with Samsung’s Sound Tower mobile app (available on iOS/Android), which serves as a remote control for both audio and lighting settings [45]. Through the app, you can queue up playlists, adjust the EQ or bass modes, and trigger different lighting patterns or DJ effects on the fly. This is part of Samsung’s effort to make the experience seamless – rather than fiddling with buttons on the unit’s back panel, you can tweak the party ambiance right from your phone on the dance floor. Overall, the design of the Sound Tower series shows Samsung balancing power, portability, and ease-of-use. From the grab-and-go handles and wheels to the splash-proof casing and simple app controls, these speakers are built to go wherever the party goes, and keep it going strong.
Release Date, Pricing, and Availability
Samsung’s Sound Tower ST50F and ST40F made their official debut at IFA 2025 (which took place in early September 2025), with Samsung confirming that the speakers would roll out globally starting that month. In fact, the company announced the units would be “available this month” (September 2025) via Samsung’s own website and select retailers [46]. True to that promise, by the first week of September the Sound Towers were appearing for order in regions like North America and Europe. According to Samsung, both models are available in the United States and Europe now, and will reach other markets on a rolling schedule. (One report noted that in some regions like Australia, the Sound Tower might not hit stores until early 2026 [47], but for the major markets the launch is aligned with the IFA announcement.)
In terms of pricing, the Sound Towers are positioned at the premium end of the Bluetooth speaker market – these are high-end party systems, and the prices reflect that. The ST50F carries a suggested retail price of $699.99 in the U.S. (approximately £649 in the UK or around €748 in Europe) [48] [49]. The smaller ST40F is priced at $499.99 (roughly £449 or about €517) [50] [51]. Samsung’s official announcement pegged the U.S. MSRPs at $700 and $500 respectively [52], and those have been corroborated by multiple tech news outlets. For example, Engadget noted the new Sound Towers “go big on noise and lighting,” retailing at $700 and $500 for the ST50F and ST40F [53].
These price points put Samsung’s offerings in competitive territory. At $699, the ST50F is considerably more expensive than many mid-sized Bluetooth speakers but is also more powerful and feature-rich. (For context, Samsung’s previous generation Sound Tower models from 2022 were priced much lower – around $279 – but those lacked the battery and advanced lighting of the new series [54].) It’s clear Samsung has upsized the specs and the price to target serious buyers who want a no-compromises party speaker. Both models are sold through Samsung’s online store and major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and electronics outlets, so availability is broad. By aligning the launch with the huge IFA tech show, Samsung ensured the Sound Towers garnered global media coverage right as they hit store shelves.
For early adopters, the timing is convenient – units shipping in September means they’ll be in consumers’ hands in time for fall gatherings and holiday parties. “They’ll be ready for Halloween and other fall parties,” Tom’s Guide observed, noting Samsung deliberately said “available this month” without a specific date [55]. The good news is there appears to be no long waiting period; Samsung is effectively launching and shipping these simultaneously. As of the first week after IFA, tech reviewers in the US and UK reported that the Sound Towers were already listed for sale (with some sites showing “In Stock” status). Samsung’s strategy here seems to be: announce with fanfare at IFA, and make the impulse purchase available immediately while excitement is high.
In summary, September 2025 marks the retail debut of the Sound Tower series in core markets, with pricing at $699/£649 for the ST50F and $499/£449 for the ST40F. This positions the new Sound Towers as premium, feature-packed party speakers that come at a premium cost. Samsung is effectively betting that consumers will pay top dollar for the combination of big sound, big lights, and big battery – especially as the holiday season approaches. Early coverage suggests the speakers are indeed available on schedule, so those eager to elevate their next party can already place orders.
Early Impressions and Expert Commentary
The announcement of Samsung’s Sound Tower series at IFA 2025 has generated plenty of buzz in tech media, with early commentary highlighting both the strengths and the over-the-top nature of these party speakers. Samsung’s own executives emphasize how the Sound Towers fit into consumer lifestyles. Hun Lee of Samsung stated that with their fully encompassing sound and light effects, the new Sound Tower “underscores Samsung’s commitment to providing innovative audio solutions for the diverse lifestyles of customers.” [56] In other words, Samsung sees these as part of a broader strategy to deliver audio for every scenario – from audiophile soundbars for home theaters to party speakers for social gatherings. This corporate line signals that Samsung is proud of adding such a product to its lineup, focusing on the fun factor as much as technical prowess.
Tech reviewers, for their part, have been intrigued (and at times amused) by the Sound Towers’ audacious party-focused design. Many noted that Samsung has fully embraced the party aesthetic this round. “Samsung may be partly to blame for unleashing the party speaker upon the world… Not so with its two new Sound Towers, which add LED lights that would be impossible to miss,” wrote The Verge, contrasting the new models’ flashy look to more “restrained” past designs [57]. Indeed, the five-zone lighting and glowing rings make these hard to ignore. Some experts lauded the extensive features: “The ST50F throws out 240W – loud enough to drown out your neighbours – …Dual dome tweeters spread sound around any sized room, while woofers let you pick your bass flavour,” noted Stuff magazine, who called the Sound Tower “the ultimate pick” if you need a party speaker [58]. That suggests audio enthusiasts are impressed by the spec sheet – especially the wattage and sound customization.
On the flip side, there’s a tongue-in-cheek skepticism about just how extreme these speakers are. T3 magazine ran the cheeky headline, “Samsung’s Sound Tower could terrify pets and traumatize neighbours – but boy, will you have a party.” [59] Writer Carrie Marshall humorously noted, “I suspect that what you think of the Sound Tower very much depends on whether you’re the person who’ll be buying one, or if you’re the person who lives downstairs or next door.” [60] This captures a common sentiment: if you’re the party host, the Sound Tower’s earth-shaking volume and light show will delight you, but if you’re an unwitting bystander, it might be less welcome. Gizmodo’s James Pero similarly quipped that the reactive lights are “pretty fun if you’re half a keg deep and into the sloppy karaoke part of the night” [61], emphasizing the product’s clear target audience of late-night partygoers. In short, the expert commentary acknowledges that Samsung built these speakers unapologetically for “party animals”, as Gizmodo’s headline put it [62].
In terms of performance, full reviews are still pending (since units are just now hitting the market), but initial hands-on impressions at IFA were positive. Many journalists tried the demo at Samsung’s booth, noting the impressive loudness and bass. The 18-hour battery also drew praise as a standout feature versus many competitors. On the lighting, Tom’s Guide commented that with all the presets and LEDs, “it definitely seems like [an immersive experience] would be the case” in transforming a party atmosphere [63]. There is also curiosity about the real-world audio quality: Samsung’s claims of a “wider soundstage” and tailored modes sound great, but reviewers are eager to test if the clarity holds up at max volume and if the bass stays punchy without distortion.
Notably, Samsung’s move into this space is seen as building on its audio credibility. The company has dominated soundbar sales for over a decade [64], and experts view the Sound Tower as Samsung leveraging its audio tech expertise in a more lifestyle-oriented direction. Audio experts have pointed out that Samsung’s ownership of Harman (which includes JBL) likely influenced the Sound Towers – Samsung now has access to acoustics engineering know-how that JBL itself uses for its PartyBox speakers. “Samsung is expanding its audio product line with a new Sound Tower series… a portable ‘partying’ audio solution,” wrote AndroidHeadlines [65], framing it as a natural expansion of Samsung’s portfolio.
Overall, early commentary paints Samsung’s Sound Towers as exciting and feature-packed, though perhaps a bit extravagant for some tastes. They have been called “flashy” and “less subtle than ever” [66], but also “party-ready” and “fun”. For Samsung, the gamble seems to be paying off in buzz: the Sound Tower announcement stood out amid many IFA product launches, precisely because it appeals to the joyful, experiential side of tech. As one audio reviewer summed up on social media: “These Samsung Sound Towers are basically a party in a box – might be overkill for a quiet home, but if you love hosting, they look insanely cool.”
How Sound Tower Fits into Samsung’s Audio & Lifestyle Strategy
Samsung’s launch of the Sound Tower series signals the company’s broader ambition to cover every corner of home and personal audio, reinforcing its reputation as a one-stop-shop for consumer entertainment tech. For years, Samsung has led the market in home theater sound (its soundbars have been #1 in global sales for 11 consecutive years as of 2024 [67]), and it produces everything from true wireless earbuds to smart speakers. So where do the new Sound Towers fit in? Essentially, Samsung is extending its audio ecosystem into the domain of large-format lifestyle speakers – the kind of device that isn’t just about quietly enjoying music, but about creating a social experience.
Strategically, this aligns with Samsung’s push into “lifestyle” electronics that blend design and experience. Similar to how Samsung’s The Frame TV or Freestyle projector cater to lifestyle use-cases (art display mode, outdoor movie nights, etc.), the Sound Tower speakers cater to a lifestyle of entertaining and gatherings. They are products you buy not just for yourself, but to enhance parties, family events, and community get-togethers. Samsung explicitly noted that the Sound Towers support “diverse lifestyles” – hinting at consumers who have active social lives, love outdoor activities, or frequently host events [68]. By offering a party speaker, Samsung fills a gap in its lineup and keeps customers within the Samsung ecosystem for all their audio needs (no need to go to a competitor for a party speaker if you already trust Samsung for your TV and soundbar).
Another aspect of Samsung’s strategy is to leverage synergy between its devices. While not directly stated in the Sound Tower announcement, Samsung has been integrating features across its products – for example, its TVs and soundbars use Q-Symphony to play sound together, and its phones can easily cast audio to Bluetooth speakers. It wouldn’t be surprising if Samsung enables some SmartThings app support or quick pairing with Galaxy phones for the Sound Towers, making them play nice in a Samsung-centric smart home. This is part of providing a seamless ecosystem: imagine getting a notification on your Samsung phone that your Sound Tower battery is low, or controlling the Sound Tower’s lights via a Samsung smart home app to sync with Philips Hue lights – such cross-device integration could be on the horizon, given Samsung’s ecosystem approach.
Additionally, launching the Sound Tower at IFA (a major international stage) shows Samsung positioning itself as an innovator in the audio entertainment space, not just a follower. Party speakers have been around, but Samsung’s entry (especially with features like Auracast Bluetooth LE Audio support for multi-stream) indicates it wants to be seen at the cutting edge of audio tech. The inclusion of Bluetooth Auracast is noteworthy – it’s a new standard that allows one source to broadcast to many receivers (or one receiver to play from many sources) in a more flexible way than traditional Bluetooth. By incorporating this, Samsung is future-proofing its speaker for new use cases, like broadcasting music to guests’ earbuds simultaneously or linking dozens of speakers in a public venue. This plays into a larger lifestyle scenario of shared experiences, which is a buzzword Samsung frequently uses.
From a branding perspective, the Sound Towers also capitalize on Samsung’s credibility but venture into a bit more playful territory. Samsung’s audio products historically have had a somewhat utilitarian image (e.g., soundbars that are technically excellent but not “fun”). The Sound Tower injects youthful, party-friendly energy into Samsung’s brand. It can attract younger consumers or just those young at heart who might otherwise gravitate to brands like JBL or Sony for flashy speakers. By showing that Samsung too can make a speaker that lights up and encourages karaoke, it broadens the brand’s appeal. It’s similar to what we saw with Samsung’s “K sport” audio systems (the old Giga party systems) in the past decade – except now in a more refined, portable package. In fact, Samsung’s Giga Party Audio line a decade ago was a precursor to these Sound Towers [69], and now Samsung is revisiting that success in a modern way with batteries and app control.
Finally, in terms of market strategy, introducing the Sound Tower series allows Samsung to compete in the growing segment of premium portable speakers (sometimes called “party boxes” or “party speakers”) where margins can be healthy. Given Samsung’s global reach, it can distribute these widely and perhaps bundle them in promotions (imagine getting a discount on a Sound Tower when buying a Samsung TV, encouraging consumers to think of Samsung for all home entertainment needs). The move also complements Samsung’s dominance in other categories – for instance, a customer who bought a Samsung outdoor TV (The Terrace) might naturally look at a Samsung Sound Tower to provide audio for their patio events. It’s a cohesive approach: offer a full lifestyle portfolio from screens to sound to appliances, all under the Samsung umbrella, to keep consumers within its product family.
In summary, the Sound Tower launch fits neatly into Samsung’s strategy of diversifying its audio lineup and emphasizing lifestyle-centric tech. It leverages Samsung’s audio engineering prowess and market presence to enter a niche dominated by others, potentially undercutting competitors by offering a one-brand solution. And it reinforces Samsung’s message that it has something for everyone – whether you’re a cinephile wanting a soundbar, a commuter with Galaxy Buds, or a party host who needs to rock the block, Samsung now has a product tailored for you.
How It Stacks Up Against the Competition
Samsung is jumping into a crowded party speaker arena with these Sound Towers, so how do they compare to similar offerings from major competitors like JBL, Sony, LG, and Bose? Each of those companies has its own take on large portable speakers, and Samsung’s strategy seems to be delivering a well-rounded contender. Here’s a look at how the Sound Tower series stacks up:
- JBL PartyBox Series: JBL is one of the pioneers of the party speaker genre, and notably at IFA 2025 it also announced its biggest battery-powered model, the JBL PartyBox 720. The PartyBox 720 is a beast: it pumps out a whopping 800W of JBL Pro Sound through dual 9-inch woofers (far eclipsing the Sound Tower’s 240W max) [70] [71]. Uniquely, it runs on swappable dual battery packs (JBL’s 600 series batteries), allowing up to 15 hours playtime and the option to hot-swap for continuous play [72]. It too has an intense light show and IPX4 splash-proofing [73]. However, the JBL 720 is significantly larger and heavier (it’s almost three feet tall and very bulky) and much pricier – it’s listed at around $1,099 MSRP [74], considerably more than Samsung’s ST50F. In terms of sound quality, JBL’s reputation for strong bass and clarity is a big draw, and the PartyBox likely hits harder in sheer volume. That said, Samsung’s Sound Tower is more portable (wheels, slightly smaller footprint) and integrates things like karaoke and app features similarly. For consumers, JBL’s name is synonymous with party speakers (the smaller PartyBox models are extremely popular), so Samsung will compete on features per dollar. The Sound Tower ST50F undercuts JBL’s flagship on price while offering a comparably robust feature set (lights, battery, water resistance). In short: JBL’s new PartyBox 720 is louder and built for the biggest parties, but Samsung’s Sound Tower aims to offer nearly as much fun for a few hundred dollars less, making it a strong value proposition in this high-end segment.
- Sony X-Series (XV800/XV900): Sony has a line of hefty wireless party speakers, with the SRS-XV900 being its top-tier model. The Sony XV900 is known for its “omnidirectional party sound” – it uses multiple drivers (including side and top tweeters) to spread audio 360° – and it boasts an enormous 25-hour battery life on a single charge [75]. That battery endurance easily beats Samsung’s 18 hours, making Sony king if you need multi-day usage. The XV900 also features 360° LED lighting (though generally a bit more understated than Samsung’s kaleidoscope of LEDs) and similarly has wheels and a handle for transport [76]. In raw output, Sony doesn’t quote wattage, but reviewers note it’s extremely loud (the “highest sound pressure in Sony’s wireless speaker range” by their own claim) [77]. Sony’s focus is often on sound quality and stamina – the XV900 received praise for punchy bass and clear sound at high volume, and it also can pair with up to 100 other Sony speakers (Party Connect feature) for huge setups. The catch? Price and size. The XV900 launched around $899 price point [78], putting it above the Sound Tower ST50F. It’s also quite hefty (~58 lbs, much heavier than Samsung’s ~37 lbs ST50F). Sony has a slightly smaller model, the SRS-XV800, which might be closer to the ST50F in size and cost, but that one still costs around $650. For consumers, Sony’s brand appeals to those prioritizing audio fidelity and battery longevity – e.g., someone who wants to use the speaker for an all-weekend camping trip or as a PA substitute. Samsung’s Sound Tower may not last as long or have the multi-tweeter array of the XV900, but it holds its own with competitive loudness, a more aggressive light show, and a lower price. If anything, the Sound Tower’s design with the handle light and app might actually seem more “fun” oriented than Sony’s relatively sober styling. Bottom line: Sony’s flagship party speakers play longer and arguably with a bit more audiophile finesse, but Samsung is challenging them with a feature-packed alternative that’s easier on the wallet.
- LG XBOOM Party Speakers: LG has been in the party speaker game too with its XBOOM lineup. A comparable model is the LG XBOOM XL7, a tower speaker rated at 250W output (similar ballpark to Samsung’s 240W) and featuring a distinctive pixelated LED panel on the front for light animations. The XL7 has an 8-inch woofer plus tweeters and also supports up to 20 hours battery life [79], which actually edges out the Sound Tower by a small margin. It’s also IPX4 water-resistant and has wheels and a handle – so on specs, LG and Samsung are very closely matched. One unique aspect of LG’s approach is that pixel LED display, which can show custom text or pixel art – a different take on party lighting compared to Samsung’s more ambient lighting. In terms of sound, LG’s XBOOM series is well-regarded for strong bass (some models even have a “Bass Blast” feature) and clarity, though perhaps not as refined as Sony’s. LG’s XL7 launched around the $600 price range, but it’s often on sale (indicating maybe a slightly lower demand or just aggressive pricing). Samsung’s advantage over LG could be brand ecosystem and software polish – the Sound Tower app and integration might be more seamless than LG’s software. Also, Samsung’s lighting is more comprehensive around the speaker body, whereas LG’s is front-firing. Consumer appeal might differ: LG’s pixel display is great for a personalized touch (like showing “Happy Birthday” in lights), whereas Samsung’s is about immersive mood lighting. Both being Korean tech giants, it’s interesting to see them compete here. In summary: LG’s comparable party speakers match Samsung closely in specs (power, battery, ruggedness), but Samsung brings a fresher design and arguably a higher-profile launch. The Sound Tower’s edge might lie in its all-around lightshow and the Samsung brand’s momentum, while LG’s XBOOM might attract those who love the customizable LED panel or find a better deal.
- Bose and Others: Bose approaches this space from a different angle – rather than “party speaker with lights,” Bose offers products like the Bose S1 Pro+ which are essentially portable PA systems. The S1 Pro is much smaller and lighter than the Sound Tower (it’s a 16-pound wedge you can put on a speaker stand), and while it has a battery (around 11 hours at moderate volume) and great sound quality, it lacks any LED lighting or flashy effects – it’s designed for musicians, buskers, or small gatherings where sound clarity is key. It outputs about 160W peak and has built-in mixing for microphones/instruments. So Bose’s offering is more about performance and audio fidelity than raw party spectacle. At ~$699 for an S1 Pro+, you’re paying for the Bose sound and portability, but if someone specifically wants a high-energy lightshow and booming bass for dance music, the Sound Tower or its aforementioned rivals are more suitable. Bose might be considered a competitor in the sense that a buyer with ~$600-$700 to spend on a portable speaker might cross-shop the S1 Pro and the Samsung ST50F – one giving a refined, no-frills audio experience, the other giving a full party package. Additionally, brands like Ultimate Ears (Hyperboom) or Soundcore (Rave series) cater to the party speaker market at smaller scales, but at the top end where Samsung is now playing, the main competitors remain JBL, Sony, LG, and to an extent, Bose. Samsung’s Sound Tower finds a middle ground: it’s both entertainment-focused (like JBL/LG with lights and party modes) and backed by a reputable audio pedigree (approaching the sound quality expectations one might have from Bose or Sony). This combination could make it particularly appealing.
In conclusion, Samsung’s new Sound Tower series enters the fray strongly – it may not overwhelmingly out-spec every rival, but it doesn’t have to. The ST50F and ST40F present a very compelling mix of high power, long battery life, vibrant lighting, and features at a competitive price point. They undercut the ultra-premium giants (JBL 720, Sony XV900) in cost while delivering an experience that is, for most party enthusiasts, more than sufficient to rock the night. Against more similarly priced units (like LG’s offerings), Samsung brings the cachet of the Samsung brand and the buzz of a brand-new release in 2025. Importantly, Samsung also leverages the latest tech (Auracast Bluetooth, etc.) which some competitors have yet to adopt.
For consumers, the upshot is that the party speaker market in late 2025 is hotter than ever – with Samsung’s entry, you now have another top-tier option to consider alongside the established players. If you’re someone who loves to host and wants a one-stop solution for music and atmosphere, Samsung’s Sound Tower seems designed with you in mind. As one early hands-on report gleefully summarized, “Look no further than Samsung’s new Sound Tower… these speakers pack a punch” [80] – and they’re here just in time to light up every gathering from now into the holiday season.
Sources: Samsung Newsroom [81] [82]; The Verge [83]; Stuff Magazine [84] [85]; Gizmodo [86]; T3 [87] [88]; Homecrux (JBL) [89] [90]; LG Product Info [91]; Sony Official Info [92].
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