The ION Pathfinder 280 is alright for music. Vocals and lead instruments sound present out-of-the-box, though there's some unevenness in the mid and treble ranges that causes them to sound alternately honky and veiled at times. Also, it lacks a thumpy and rumbling low-bass. Fortunately, there's a graphic EQ and presets to tweak its sound to your liking. There's also a Boom Button to help bump up the bass. It gets loud enough to fill large crowded spaces, making it suitable for parties. Unfortunately, its soundstage is perceived as fairly narrow and isn't as immersive.