What are JBL Headphones?
About The Company
JBL is a company that produces audio equipment in the United States, with its headquarters in Los Angeles, California. JBL caters to the consumer, residential, and business markets.
The professional market covers the markets for studios, cars, music production, DJs, installed/tour/portable sound, and movies. Harman International, a division of Samsung Electronics, is the owner of JBL.
Due to their propensity to closely resemble the Harman curve, JBL produces feature-rich headphones that typically offer a well-balanced sound. However, despite their affordability, they have a plasticky manufacture that might feel a little cheap, and their design and fit might not always be the most comfortable.
Compared to Other Brands
Pros
Excellent sound balance. Although we haven’t tested the entire JBL headphone lineup, this company clearly places a premium on balanced sound reproduction. Given that they are a division of Harman, their headphones frequently adopt the Harman curve, which produces a balanced sound profile appropriate for the majority of audio genres.
Feature-packed. The extensive line of wireless headphones from JBL are loaded with useful features like music sharing and timers for auto-off. Additionally, you can further personalize your audio experience with their mobile app by controlling noise isolation and adjusting sound with their fully parametric equalizer.
Easy-to-use. The controls on the JBL headphones we’ve tested are typically easy to use. The majority also make pairing with Bluetooth easier by including a dedicated sync button.
Cons
Minimal comfort. Even though we haven’t tested every model of JBL’s headphone line, some of them have uncomfortable design features like ear cups that are too small or too tight to the user’s ears.
Flimsy patterns. Although the majority of JBL headphones have decent construction, the ones we tested feel cheap, especially given their price range.
No models with open backs. Although it might not be a problem for more casual listeners, JBL doesn’t provide an open-back model that can produce larger soundstages suitable for audiophiles.
Best JBL Headphones: The Top Earphones And Earbuds For You
[amazon bestseller=”JBL Headphone” items=”6″ template=”table”]JBL Vibe 100 TWS True Wireless
The JBL Vibe 100 TWS True Wireless are the top JBL headphones in our tests for the lowest price range. These earphones are sturdy and provide a good amount of stability and comfort.
Their well-balanced sound features a slight overemphasis in the bass register that gives your music a little more thunder and punch without muddying up mixes. It is adaptable enough for various genres, but unlike the other headphones on this list, it lacks a companion app and options for sound modification.
They do a good job of passively isolating against office-type noise, such as background chatter at work, despite not having ANC either.
Although the battery’s continuous use life is just about five hours, there is a case that can contain three more charges. The maker claims that they may be used for an hour after 15 minutes of charging, and you can use one bud while the other charges in the case.
[amazon box=”B095J62YQR” template=”horizontal”]Pros
- Decently comfortable and well-built.
Cons
- No EQ or presets.
JBL Tune 510BT
The JBL Tune 510BT should be purchased by listeners who do not want to spend more than $50 USD. It still has four colorway options to fit your style, and its Spartan design keeps costs down without losing function.
The battery life of this pair of on-ear headphones is impressive at 40 hours and 43 minutes. Five minutes of USB-C charging results in an additional 120 minutes of listening time. Additionally, the Tune 510BT offers multipoint connectivity, a feature typically reserved for more expensive headphones.
A 32mm dynamic driver is housed in each ear cup, and in true JBL fashion, it prioritizes low-end emphasis above precise audio reproduction. Once more, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing because most customers like this kind of sound.
Poor isolation and a less consistent fit compared to over-ear headphones are two drawbacks of an on-ear design. On the other hand, these JBL headphones can rotate flat or fold inward and are incredibly portable.
The TUNE 510BT also provides access to Siri and Google Assistant. Again, the JBL TUNE 510BT isn’t all that exceptional aside from the fact that it simply functions.
Pros
- An extended battery life.
- A simple to use control layout.
Cons
- Inadequate capacity to isolate noise.
- Poor construction quality.
JBL Tune 660NC Wireless Headphones
The best noise-cancelling headphones for bargain hunters are JBL’s Tune 660NC cordless models. The under $100 headphones feature a functional design, a small on-ear fit, a fun sound with strong bass, and effective noise reduction.
The Tune 660NC headphones also include a quick USB-C connector and a remarkable battery life of up to 55 hours between charges. Given their price, the absence of an accompanying app is not a deal-breaker. The product is available from JBL in black, white, and blue.
[amazon box=”B08WNBYQC9″ template=”horizontal”]Pros
- Long-lasting battery
- Neutral and stable sound signature
- Short spurts of great comfort
- ANC performance that is good, USB-C, and rapid charging
Cons
- Not a significant improvement over 650 Heavy construction
- Earcups may become warm with prolonged use.
JBL Endurance Peak II
The JBL Endurance Peak II, a pair of IPX7 earbuds with an ear hook design that holds the earbuds in place throughout all types of movement, is one of our favorite wireless options in JBL’s headset selection.
The nozzles were oriented by JBL so that they follow the natural shape of the human ear canal, making the earbuds comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
The earbuds’ battery life is above average, lasting about 6 hours before needing to be recharged in the USB-C case, which does not enable rapid charging.
For a snug, comfortable fit, JBL offers listeners a variety of wing and ear tips, as we’ve seen with other training earbuds. Since genuine wireless workout earbuds are more difficult to locate when they fall out due to an inadequate fit, this is crucial.
While exercising, onboard controls are simple to use because there is enough of room for your fingertips to tap the touch-capacitive screens. Either earbud can be utilized in full mono mode, and the earbuds support AAC and SBC streaming. The inbuilt control capabilities are nevertheless restricted when listening in mono.
[amazon box=”B08LQTJHLL” template=”horizontal”]Pros
- Powerful, bass-forward sound signature
- Fully waterproof design
- Secure fit
Cons
- No app
- Sound signature isn’t accurate and can’t be adjusted with EQ
JBL Live Free NC+ TWS True Wireless
The JBL Live Free NC+ TWS True Wireless are the best JBL wireless headphones for exercising that we’ve tested. They employ stability fins to help keep them in place, in contrast to the other earbuds on our list. They fit significantly more securely as a result and shouldn’t come loose even during vigorous exercise.
They are sturdy and have an IPX7 rating for resistance to submersion in water, so they can withstand accidental drops or a rainy outdoor run. Additionally, they offer a sound profile that is neutral and well-balanced and suited for a variety of content and genres.
Unfortunately, their battery life is only 5.7 hours on continuous use. Although the JBL Live 660NC Wireless has a longer battery life for lengthy runs, their case can contain a few extra charges. They offer decent stability, are fairly breathable, and have a little more bass punch to keep you energized.
Additionally, they contain an adequate degree of noise cancellation (ANC) technology, and most importantly, they have a lengthy battery life of roughly 25 hours. Since over-ear headphones trap more heat than earbuds do, not everyone will enjoy them for exercises.
Pros
- Comfortable and well-built.
- Barely leak audio.
Cons
- Sub-par noise isolation.
JBL LIVE 650 BTNC
For a lot less money than similar ANC headphones, the JBL LIVE 650 BTNC is a fantastic noise-canceling headset. Low-cost materials keep costs low and a body’s weight low. Don’t be fooled by the construction’s predominance of plastic; a metal-reinforced headband guarantees durability for everyday usage.
Air conditioners, subway rumbles, and other low-frequency noises are effectively blocked by the headset. These sounds are reduced to about half their original volume. Even though it can’t compete with the Apple AirPods Max or the Sony WH-1000XM4, it’s among the top options you can find for under $150.
The quality of the microphone is good. Because a headset microphone mutes low frequencies, where many of the fundamental notes of human voices are located, when you’re on a call, the listener may tell that you’re using it. Your voice may so appear “muffled” or “remote.” It also won’t assist if the microphone can’t isolate the voice of the speaker from outside noise.
[amazon box=”B07W6RVQ8Q” template=”horizontal”]Pros
- Dynamic, punchy sound
- Supports Google Assistant + Alexa
- Extremely comfortable
Cons
- MicroUSB charging
- Good, but not class-leading ANC
- Non-adjustable ANC
JBL CLUB PRO+ TWS True Wireless
The JBL headphones we’ve tested that cost less than $100 are the CLUB PRO+ TWS True Wireless. These earbuds provide an amazingly well-balanced, pleasant, and adaptable sound profile.
Although it may be adjusted using a parametric EQ and presets in the headphones’ companion app, it is suited for a variety of content. Additionally, they offer an ANC feature that does a respectable job of muffled noises like background talk and rumbling engines.
Although their approximately seven-hour continuous battery life might not last through an entire workday, they come with a case that can contain three additional charges, allowing you to recharge them as needed. Their microphone performs well enough for phone calls as well.
However, because of their high latency with iOS and Android devices, they may cause audio syncing issues, making them less than ideal for watching films on your phone. Other than that, the JBL earphones with microphone in this flexible pair are the best ones we’ve tested.
Pros
- Good noise isolation.
Cons
- Mediocre noise handling performance.
- High PC latency.
JBL Tour ONE
Try the JBL Tour ONE if you’re looking for the greatest JBL headphones. You get tactile buttons and a touchpad for almost all functions with a subtle metal and plush construction. In addition to Bluetooth 5.0 with AAC and SBC codecs and multipoint, it also comes with a useful headphone jack.
Active noise cancellation (ANC) is used by the JBL Tour ONE, and it has two modes: adaptive sound ANC (to adapt to your environment) and a regular ANC that operates continually. It also has presets for ambient sound so you may block out or let part of the outside world in.
It won’t be better than, for example, a Bose QuietComfort 45 or a Sony WH-1000XM4, but it will undoubtedly assist. The Tour ONE’s battery life is exceptional, lasting 25 hours with ANC turned on and 50 hours without.
You may top it off for 120 minutes in 10 minutes using the USB-C charging method. JBL also included a four-mic array in the headset for all your Zoom call requirements.
JBL has made significant improvements to its app support, and the Tour ONE is a prime example. Like most JBL products, it tends to favor an underemphasized treble response, but you can actually alter the sound to your taste in any direction with the equalization (EQ) in the JBL Headphones app.
[amazon box=”B0B7XZN3GK” template=”horizontal”]Pros
- Excellent noise and sound cancellation
- Fantastic battery life
- Elegant style
Cons
- Battery life is strongly impacted by noise cancellation.
JBL CLUB 950NC Wireless
The JBL CLUB 950NC headphones are the greatest JBL models we’ve tested. These well-made Bluetooth over-ears are somewhat adaptable and feature a sturdy, comfortable fit.
With the help of the JBL Headphones app’s parametric EQ and presets, you may alter its well-balanced sound profile. Since they have a 25-hour continuous battery life and don’t make a lot of noise, your music shouldn’t disturb coworkers at the office.
They can aid in reducing workplace distractions by successfully canceling out mid-range and higher-pitched sounds like voices or a running computer fan thanks to their ANC feature.
They may not be the best for your daily commute, though, as it suffers more with low-frequency sounds like rumbling motors. They are also not very suitable for phone calls due to the poor performance of its inbuilt mic.
Pros
- Strong bass
- Play audio
- Fair noise-cancelling
Cons
- Needs additional padding
- Lack of nuance
- Rivals more sophisticated
JBL Live Pro+ TWS True Wireless
The best JBL ANC earphones we’ve tried are the JBL Live Pro+ TWS True Wireless. The adjustable ANC feature on these earbuds performs admirably. They may cancel out a variety of background noises when set to the “Everyday” setting, including the deep rumble of bus and airplane engines.
Several other settings are available, such as “Active” for outdoor noise and “Ambient Sound,” which enables you to hear your surroundings without removing the earphones. They fit snugly and comfortably and are well-built.
They offer a bass-heavy sound profile right out of the box, which gives your audio more thud, punch, and boom. They have the best bass of any JBL wireless earbuds we’ve tried, and they work especially well with hip-hop and EDM music.
Their software features a parametric EQ and presets for sound customization if you prefer a different sound. They have a battery life of little under seven hours on a single charge, which might not be enough time to get through an entire workday. However, you can always top off the battery in the case, which can contain roughly three additional charges.
[amazon box=”B08LT8HJXJ” template=”horizontal”]Pros
- Perky, energetic sound
- Good control app Wide range of finishes
Cons
- Avoid using the words “relaxed” or “insightful.”
- Heavily built earbuds
How Do I Choose the Right JBL Headphones For My Needs?
The audio quality of all JBL headphones and earbuds is among the best in their price range. There are a few things you should be aware of before committing to a pair.
Design
There are three different physical configurations for headphones, and JBL produces versions for each. Earbuds or in-ear headphones cinch into the ear. They often come with a variety of soft tips to match various ear canal diameters. They are particularly good at reducing outside noise.
On-ear headphones lay comfortably on the ear and contain ear cups that are joined by a flexible band. Even with the greatest models, after wearing for an hour or more, the persistent pressure on the ears might become painful. This design doesn’t do a great job of blocking ambient noises, which depending on your situation can be a positive or a drawback.
The most comfortable headphones for extended listening sessions that also provide superb sound isolation are around-ear models. Because the drivers are larger, they often offer the best audio quality. These are the most common kinds of headphones for audiophiles.
What about “pure wireless?”
The Bluetooth protocol is used by each of the headphones we tested to connect to a computer or mobile device. Accordingly, the headphones and host device can be connected wirelessly without the use of a cable (though several models also provide one as an option).
But some headphones come with a headband and a wire joining the left and right earpieces. The only components of “true wireless” phones are the two earpieces; there is no connecting connection. Being without a cable, which can get in the way and eventually fail, can be great. However, if the small earpieces are not always maintained when not in use, it is simpler to lose one of them.
Sound Quality
Let’s start with the minute variations in sound quality between JBL Signature and JBL Pro. The former offers a strong and enjoyable listening experience with slightly enhanced bass. The JBL’s Pro sound is more balanced and detail-rich, which I found to be more suited for listening to higher-quality content. It is available in the brands’ top-tier headphones and earbuds.
Some cheaply priced JBL headphones and earbuds feature a Pure Bass sound in addition to the aforementioned sound options. This feature, as its name implies, keeps the bass bouncing and offers a much improved low range. Although enjoyable, the audio quality is less accurate than JBL Signature and Pro sound.
Companion App
It’s also important to note that the top JBL wireless earbuds and headphones come with a complimentary app that lets you adjust the sound and controls. The app is useful for updating the goods’ features and firmware.
What Does IP Rating Mean?
The manufacturer rating system known as IP, or ingress protection, describes how effectively a device will withstand contamination from either solid or liquid particles.
Its tolerance to dust is indicated by the first digit, with 0 denoting no protection and 6 denoting total dustproof ness. The second value, which ranges from 0 (zero protection) to 9, shows its resistance to liquids (sweat, rain, etc). (extremely waterproof). If a “X” appears in place of a digit, it has not been tested.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth technology is used by JBL wireless headphones to communicate with your host devices. The majority of models have Bluetooth version 4.2 installed. Version 5 is used by one of the models examined, which offers a few benefits. It often pairs with a host more rapidly and can transmit at a faster rate but with a shorter range.
Dust and Water Resistance
The ability of headphones or earbuds designed for sports or outdoor use to withstand dust and water is typically tested before receiving an IP classification.
JBL-specific Features
JBL has created a number of technical breakthroughs that enhance performance. As mentioned in our reviews, some headphone models might or might not include these functions.
The microphones are used by ambient-aware technology, which combines outside ambient sound with the program content you hear. You can turn it on or off. This is particularly helpful if you’re in a public setting where you need to be aware of your surroundings, such as when jogging on a street.
TalkThru Mode lowers the volume of the music so you may converse with friends while still wearing your headphones.
The internal battery can be partially charged quickly with Speed Charge. A complete charge often takes several hours.
The feature known as “Multi-Point Connection” enables the headphones to alternate between two Bluetooth devices. This is helpful if, for instance, you’re using a laptop or tablet to watch a video when your phone rings.
On the other hand, JBL Pure Bass is primarily simply a catchphrase. To mimic the sound of enormous speakers, many JBL headphones, particularly in-ear models, increase the lowest bass frequencies.
How to Pair JBL Headphones
Follow steps below to pair your JBL headphones with other devices:
- Power on your JBL headphones. This is usually done by holding down the power button for a few seconds.
- The LED light on the headphones will flash indicating that they are in pairing mode.
- Open the Bluetooth settings on your device. This can be done by going to the settings menu and selecting Bluetooth.
- Your device will now search for any Bluetooth devices in range.
- Select your JBL headphones from the list of available devices.
- Your JBL headphones are now paired and you can begin using them.
How to Reset JBL Bluetooth Headphones
If your JBL Bluetooth headphones won’t connect, won’t turn on, or are playing audio inconsistently, you may be able to fix the problem by resetting the headphones. To reset JBL Bluetooth headphones, press and hold the power button for 10 seconds. If that doesn’t work, remove the headphones from your device’s Bluetooth list and then pair them again.
FAQs
Are JBL Headphones Worth It?
JBL headphones are definitely worth the money. They have great sound quality, are comfortable to wear, and are very durable.
How Do I Know If My JBL Headphones Are Authentic?
There are a few ways to tell if your JBL headphones are authentic. One way is to look for the JBL logo on the headphones. Another way is to look for a serial number on the headphones. If you cannot find either of these, it is likely that your headphones are not authentic.
How Do I Clean My JBL Headphones?
To clean your JBL headphones, start by removing the ear cushions and wiping down the ear cups with a soft, dry cloth. Next, use a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to clean the mesh grille on the back of the ear cups. Finally, wipe down the headband and control panel with a dry cloth.
How Can I Extend the Battery Life of My JBL Headphones?
There are a few things you can do to extend the battery life of your JBL headphones:
- Make sure that the headphones are turned off when not in use.
- Keep the headphones away from heat sources.
- Avoid exposing the headphones to direct sunlight.
- Do not store the headphones in extremely cold or hot environments.
What Should I Do If My JBL Headphones Are Lost or Stolen?
If your JBL headphones are lost or stolen, you should contact JBL customer service as soon as possible. They will be able to help you file a claim and potentially replace your headphones.
How Do I View the Warranty Information For my JBL Headphones?
The warranty information for JBL headphones can be found in the product manual or on the JBL website.
What Should I Do If I Have A Problem With My JBL Headphones?
If you have a problem with your JBL headphones, you should contact the company’s customer service department.
How do I Store My Headphone Not In Use?
Headphones should be stored in a dry, cool place out of direct sunlight. They should be stored in a case or pouch to protect them from dust and other debris.
Conclusion
There are a lot of great headphones out there, but JBL is one of the best. They have great sound quality and are very comfortable to wear. If you’re looking for a new pair of headphones, definitely check out JBL.
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