JBL has launched its latest flagship earbuds, the JBL Tour Pro 2, which feature a touch-screen case that allows users to access various settings and functions without using their phone or an app. The earbuds also offer adaptive noise cancellation, long battery life, and Bluetooth LE Audio support. However, they are not cheap and their sound quality may not justify the price tag.
A novel interactive case
The most distinctive feature of the JBL Tour Pro 2 is the 1.45-inch touch-screen on the front of the charging case. The screen displays information such as battery level, connection status, and firmware updates. It also lets users switch between different noise cancellation modes, set alarms, activate spatial audio, and even use a flashlight.
The touch-screen case is fun to use and adds convenience and value to the earbuds. Users can easily accept calls or adjust settings without taking out their phone or tapping on the earbuds. The screen also enhances the design and look of the case, making it stand out from other earbuds.
Impressive noise cancellation and battery life
The JBL Tour Pro 2 earbuds have adaptive noise cancellation, which adjusts in real time based on the loudness of your environment. The noise cancellation is strong and comparable to the upper tier of competition. Users can choose from four ANC modes: travel, indoor, outdoor, and silent now. The latter mode disconnects Bluetooth and turns on ANC for maximum isolation.
The battery life of the JBL Tour Pro 2 is another highlight. The earbuds can last up to eight hours of continuous listening with ANC on or 10 with it off. The case provides another 24 or 30 hours of charge, respectively. The case can be charged via USB-C or Qi wireless charging.
Good but not great sound quality
The JBL Tour Pro 2 earbuds have 10-millimeter drivers that follow the Harman response curve, which is considered a reference for accurate sound reproduction. However, JBL has added some extra bass to the sound signature, which may appeal to some listeners but not others.
The sound quality of the JBL Tour Pro 2 is good but not great for the price. The earbuds lack depth, dynamic range, and definition compared to some of their rivals such as the AirPods Pro, Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, and Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3. The sound quality also varies depending on the genre of music.
Other features and drawbacks
The JBL Tour Pro 2 earbuds have some other features that make them attractive and versatile. They support Bluetooth LE Audio, which is a new standard that promises better sound quality, lower latency, and multi-streaming capabilities. They also have voice-aware technology that lets users adjust how much of their voice they hear during calls.
However, the JBL Tour Pro 2 earbuds also have some drawbacks that may deter some potential buyers. They are expensive at $249.95 and may not offer enough value for money compared to other options in the market. They also have a mediocre transparency mode that sounds unnatural and tinny.
