LG has launched its portable Bluetooth speaker, the xboom Stage 501, in the US at $499.99. First previewed at CES 2026, the speaker targets home parties, karaoke enthusiasts, and mobile performers. The standout feature isn’t just the 220-watt output or flashy lighting – it’s the AI Karaoke Master, which removes vocals from songs in real time.
The xboom Stage 501 is part of LG’s new xboom line pitched as a more music-focused, stage-ready range of portable Bluetooth speakers. It’s squarely aimed at established contenders like JBL’s PartyBox series, Sony’s ULT lineup, and Soundcore’s Rave models. The $499.99 price point places it mid-tier, where buyers weigh power output, battery life, and party-friendly features.
LG xboom Stage 501 key specs and features
The headline feature is the AI Karaoke Master system, which can strip vocals from ”almost any” song on the fly and adjust pitch. This means you can instantly turn a regular streaming track into a karaoke backing track without needing separate karaoke versions or subscription services. All of this is managed through LG’s proprietary app.
Sound tuning was done in collaboration with will.i.am, and the speaker uses Peerless audio components inside. Power-wise, it delivers up to 220 watts when plugged in and up to 160 watts on battery. The removable battery provides up to 25 hours of playback – unusual for large party speakers where built-in batteries are more common.
- Up to 220 watts power when plugged in
- Up to 160 watts on battery power
- Up to 25 hours of battery life with removable battery pack
- AI Sound auto-adjusts based on content
- Space Calibration Pro adapts sound to the room environment
- Dual LED light strips with strobe effects
- Flexible placement options: vertical, horizontal, angled, or on a stand
Design-wise, the Stage 501 looks more like a compact PA system than a typical home speaker. It features dual handles for easy transport, integrated lighting on both the enclosure and control panel, and a rugged enclosure designed for versatile setups. LG clearly aims beyond the living room to garage rehearsals, outdoor picnics, and small gigs.
At $499.99 in the US, LG is positioning the xboom Stage 501 in a competitive arena where Bluetooth speakers are judged not just on audio quality but also on lighting effects, mic inputs, and karaoke readiness. The company’s AI-powered vocal removal and app-based feature set aim to carve out a unique spot versus rivals that rely more heavily on hardware features.
Financing options include a three-month interest-free plan at $166.66 per month, with longer terms costing more due to added fees. The release underscores LG’s bet on an increasingly software-enhanced party speaker niche where intelligent audio processing might tip the scale.
The AI Karaoke Master technology could reshape how casual users approach karaoke, challenging traditional hardware solutions and subscription-dependent platforms. If LG expands this feature across its speaker line, it may push other brands to invest more aggressively in real-time AI audio processing. Watch for follow-up models or app updates that refine vocal separation and pitch control, which remain significant challenges even for advanced algorithms.