LG is expanding its xboom speaker range with the Stage 501, a portable Bluetooth model that puts karaoke at the centre of the experience without relying on dedicated backing tracks or subscription services.
The key feature is AI Karaoke Master, which can process regular songs in real time and reduce or remove vocals for sing-along sessions. A built-in Key Changer can also shift the pitch of a track, giving users some flexibility if the original key is uncomfortable to sing. Both controls can be handled directly from the speaker or through LG’s companion app.
That approach makes the Stage 501 more interesting than a conventional party speaker with a microphone input. Traditional karaoke setups usually depend on pre-made instrumental versions of songs. LG is instead trying to make the user’s existing music library usable on demand, although the quality of AI vocal removal will likely vary depending on how densely a track is mixed.
Audio hardware is another major part of the pitch. The Stage 501 delivers up to 220W when connected to mains power and up to 160W while running on battery. LG says the speaker uses acoustic components developed by Peerless, with tuning carried out as part of the wider xboom by will.i.am collaboration.
The speaker also includes AI Sound, which adjusts playback according to the type of content, and Space Calibration Pro, which changes the output based on the surrounding environment. AI Lighting can synchronise the built-in lighting system with music, adding dual-bar LEDs, strobe effects and illuminated controls for a more traditional party-speaker look.
Battery life is rated at up to 25 hours, which should make the Stage 501 suitable for longer gatherings without needing constant access to a power outlet. LG has also opted for a replaceable battery design, potentially extending the practical lifespan of the speaker compared with products that rely on permanently sealed batteries.
Portability appears to have received similar attention. The Stage 501 includes a dual-handle design and can be positioned vertically, horizontally or at an angle. It can also be mounted on a pole, making it potentially useful for larger rooms, outdoor events and more performance-oriented setups. The design has already received Red Dot and iF Design awards for 2026.
The Stage 501 joins LG’s broader xboom lineup alongside models including the Mini, Rock, Grab, Bounce and Stage 301. Its positioning, however, is more focused on social entertainment than straightforward portable listening.
That makes AI Karaoke Master the feature that will define whether the Stage 501 stands out. If LG’s vocal separation works reliably across different genres and recording styles, the speaker could offer a genuinely convenient alternative to traditional karaoke systems. If it struggles with complex mixes, the Stage 501 may end up being judged more conventionally on sound quality, battery life and raw output.
