Good dynamic range and a reasonable amount of compression detectable at higher volumes (although most audiophiles know compression is a loudness and power-consumed type of calculation). I bought this product in hopes of putting it in the bottle cage of my bike. Sadly, it is too small for most cages. If I had known that, I would have perhaps purchased the Megaboom. I still might, but I digress.I would recommend the Boom 2 for the college student looking to get others to appreciate music. As some of the other reviews had mentioned-one can only pack so much into a confined space. The smaller the cone and driver, the worse the sound quality. For the size, Logitech has definitely hired the right engineers on the UE line of products.Some genres really pop with this unit, especially if they stick around the mid range-soft rock, rock, jazz, and motown are good examples. Saxophone and acoustic guitar sounds unbelievably crisp and clear. Genres with lower frequencies I would stay away from- metal and R&B especially. If you're a Five Finger Death Punch or Snoop Dogg fan, this is not really the speaker for you...that is, if you haven't heard songs in that genre on an actual stereo (LCR,SW). Having my own THX Pioneer system to compare this speaker to, lots of high and low noises are almost ignored by the Boom 2. But if you've never had an actual stereo to compare to, you will be thoroughly happy. It's better than any Bose Headphone or cheap soundbar out on the market. If this speaker is in your financial lane, pick it up and you'll be happy. If you possess the ability to demonstrate self-control to save your money, get the Megaboom. Although I have not physically heard it first hand, the unit is larger and based on the same technology as the Boom and Boom 2. For $100 more, I'd say it would be worth it. Who knows, if you're even more attentive to self-control...there might be a Megaboom 2 soon...You know, if you are really about getting into quality sound and experiencing music, check out Bowers & Wilkins. I am sure there is a display somewhere local that you can find a setup to listen to. They are THE comapany all other companies try to aspire to when it comes to sound production. When studios are mixing the audio tracks for movies and theatrical music, they use B&W. Just a thought. It never hurts to know what is out there, especially to get a frame of reference.EDIT:I just bought a second Boom 2 and paired them together. Money well spent. Double stereo is super cool and the dynamic range is much better than in just a single speaker. I can just hook them anywhere and get the sound that turns heads...because it sounds like the music is whispering in your ear. Indescribable.