CES 2024 begins next week and we are already starting to see a flood of announcements. JLab are not well known within the high-end earbud and headphone segment, but they have just announced two affordable noise cancelling models that caught our attention.
The new JBuds Lux ($79.99 USD) and JBuds ANC 3 TWS Earbuds ($59.99 USD) have a few features that stand out at their respective price points.
Bluetooth Multipoint
Both models support Bluetooth Multipoint, which allows allows a headphone to maintain connections to two devices and seamlessly switch between them without pairing again. For example, one set of earbuds could stream audio from a computer and then quickly take a call from a phone.
Tip: JBuds Lux support Bluetooth 5.3 and LE Audio while the JBuds ANC 3 support Bluetooth 5.2. Both models use the SBC codec, and neither model supports any version of aptX, AAC, or LDAC.
JBuds Lux
JLab is calling the JBuds Lux their first “luxury” over-ear wireless headphone. Priced at only $79.99 that may be a stretch, but we’ll withhold any judgetment until we get them in for review.
The specifications and features of the JBuds Lux do look quite promising. They feature the same size 40mm drivers found on more expensive competitors and include Bluetooth 5.3 with multipoint and LE audio capabilities.
Combine that with active noise canceling, spatial audio support (Dolby Atmos, Tempest 3D AudioTech and Windows Sonic), 70 hours of battery life, and customizable EQ through the control app — and these could be a solid value below $80 USD in a rather competitive segment of the market.
“Everyone deserves to experience the magic of exceptional audio quality. However, not all music lovers have $300 to spend on great headphones. We took that as a challenge,” says JLab CEO Win Cramer. “The JBuds Lux ANC wireless headphones redefine the category, demonstrating how much is possible at a relatively low entry point. We integrated the best Bluetooth technologies, exceptional noise canceling capabilities, an incredibly comfortable platform, and all the bells and whistles to produce exceptional sound. Lux offers an unparalleled listening experience for sub-$100 headphones and we can’t wait for you to try them on for size.”
Where to buy: $79.99 at JLab will be available mid-February 2024 in cloud white, graphite, sage and mauve. Pre-order now.
JBuds ANC 3
The JLab JBuds ANC 3 are the company’s latest ANC true wireless earbud, but not their most expensive ones (Epic Lab, $199). However, this 3rd generation model replaces JBuds Air ANC and adds Bluetooth Multipoint and USB Type-C charging along with better ANC and longer battery life.
Improved adaptable noise cancellation includes “Be Aware” mode which lets just enough outside noise through to keep wearers safe when running outdoors, riding bikes, working out with friends, or operating in a co-working environment.
“Usability is a huge factor when discussing true wireless earbuds and it’s the main attraction with our newest JBuds ANC 3 true wireless earbuds,” said Win Cramer, JLab CEO. “Not only did we add active noise canceling technology to improve the overall listening experience, but we did so in a way that it can be used in a variety of situations. With JBuds ANC 3, it’s possible to get just enough listening privacy and access to the world around you with just a few taps.”
Battery life is said to range from 7 to 9 hours per earbud, which enables up 42 hours total use when recharged in the case. Fast recharging provides 2 hours of use from a 10 minute charge, which is double the rate of the previous model.
The earbuds are also IP55 rated, which means they’re suitable for repelling sweat and splashes during intense workouts.
Not much bigger than a USB flash drive, the JBuds ANC 3 case is a demure 2.45-inches long, 1-inch wide and 1.64-inches tall, weighing in at less than 40 grams with the earbuds—roughly the weight of a deck of playing cards.
This makes the JBuds ANC 3 incredibly small and portable for everyday use.
Another unique feature to JBuds ANC 3 is a low latency “Movie Mode” setting when paired with a TV or computer for watching shows. This feature should keep voices in sync to video by reducing lag that’s a common issue with standard Bluetooth connections.
Where to buy: $59.99 at JLab
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