Jabra Elite 8 Active Gen 2 Wireless Earbuds Review
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The ELITE 8 ACTIVE GEN 2 earbuds claim to be the world’s most durable, making them ideal for those intense workouts. With their fully waterproof construction, you can sweat it out without worrying about damaging them. The charging case is even dustproof and splash-proof, adding to their ruggedness. These earbuds have undergone military-standard testing, solidifying their reputation as the sturdiest on the market.
But it’s not just about durability – these earbuds promise a secure fit during any activity. They stay in place without EarWings, ensuring they won’t budge while you’re on the go. Whether you’re running a marathon or chasing after a bus, they are designed to stay put, giving you peace of mind.
The ELITE 8 ACTIVE GEN 2 also includes a unique feature – the world’s first smart LE audio case. Equipped with an advanced chip, this case enables seamless audio streaming from any device. You can easily connect it to your device during treadmill workouts or even link it to your TV at home to enjoy an immersive 3D audio experience.
Speaking of audio, these earbuds provide vibrant Dolby sound that goes beyond just hearing – it makes you feel like the sound is coming from outside your head. This enhanced listening experience aims to transport you into the music.
Not only do these earbuds excel in sound quality, but they also offer impressive noise control features. The new Natural HearThrough allows you to maintain environmental awareness, even during outdoor workouts. This technology is said to be twice as effective as previous iterations and includes improved wind noise detection. Additionally, you have the option to activate adaptive hybrid active noise cancelling, which helps to block out unwanted noise.
For added convenience, the ELITE 8 ACTIVE GEN 2 offers the ability to download music directly to your smartwatch, allowing you to leave your phone behind while you train. The connection is stable and reliable, ensuring you can push yourself to the limit without distractions.
While these earbuds boast a range of impressive features, it’s important to approach their claims with healthy skepticism. While they may be durable and offer advanced sound technology, potential weaknesses could include comfort issues or limitations in battery life. However, for those seeking a reliable and robust pair of earbuds for their active lifestyle, the ELITE 8 ACTIVE GEN 2 may just be worth considering.
Key Technical Specifications:
- Product: ELITE 8 ACTIVE GEN 2 Earbuds
- Intelligent Lug and Play Case: Allows for smooth audio streaming from any device
- Water Resistance: Fully IPX7 water resistant
- Secure Fit: Provides secure fit during intense workouts
- Surround Sound: Streams surround sound of the exercise team
- Immersive Dolby Sound: Provides immersive Dolby sound experience
- Natural HearThrough: Allows for environmental awareness
- Adaptive Hybrid ANC: Automatically suppresses ambient noises
- Sweat and Water Resistant: Can withstand sweat and water
- Dustproof and Splash-proof: Charging case is dustproof and splash-proof
- Military Standard Tested: Sturdiest earbuds tested to military standards
- Optimal Support and Secure Fit: Stays secure in ears all day
- Smart LE Audio Case: World’s first smart LE audio case for smooth streaming
- Vibrant Dolby Sound: Provides vibrant 3D sound with Dolby Audio
- Natural HearThrough: Twice as effective as previous generation
- Adaptive Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling: Mutes noise around you
- Smartwatch Touch: Allows music download and stable connection to smartwatch
ELITE 8 ACTIVE GEN 2: A Durable Earbud Contender or Just Another Attempt?
When it comes to workout earbuds, the new ELITE 8 ACTIVE GEN 2 touts itself as the “world’s most durable” option, but does it truly live up to this ambitious claim, especially within the competitive Australian market? Let’s dive into an analysis of key features and see how these earbuds stack up against their competitors such as Jabra Elite Active and Powerbeats Pro.
Strength in Durability: A Clear Win?
The ELITE 8 ACTIVE GEN 2 aims to capture attention with its bold assertion of military-grade toughness. Featuring comprehensive resistance against water and sweat, these earbuds promise to withstand the rigors of intense workouts. This may certainly appeal to fitness enthusiasts searching for earbuds that won’t falter under pressure. However, while its durability is impressive, competitors like the Jabra Elite Active series also offer similar water and sweat resistance. The ELITE 8’s claim to be the “world’s most durable” earbuds, therefore, might be more marketing flair than factual dominance.
Sound Innovation: Vibrant or Overplayed?
Boasting immersive Dolby 3D sound, the ELITE 8 ACTIVE GEN 2 intends to deliver a rich auditory experience. For audiophiles, the promise of feeling music rather than simply hearing it is intriguing. Yet, this feature isn’t wholly unique, as other brands like Sony WF-SP800N rival with equally sophisticated sound profiles and noise-canceling technologies. Their edge lies in consistently delivering high-quality audio without sounding over-processed, a balance which ELITE 8 seems to approach but not master.
Stay-Put Fit: Even Without EarWings?
A particular advantage for those on-the-go is the secure, no-slip fit these earbuds offer. ELITE 8 assures a comfortable fit during any activity, a benefit that Powerbeats Pro users also enjoy – often praised for ergonomic design and ear hooks. Yet, these competitors do offer EarWings, which can be a desired feature for users who need that additional security. In this arena, ELITE 8 impresses with its sleek design, appealing to those who dislike cumbersome attachments.
Innovation in Connectivity: Setting New Standards?
The standout feature is arguably the world’s first smart LE audio case, enabling seamless streaming connectivity from a variety of devices. This is a true innovation in a world where tangled wires and unreliable Bluetooth connections can disrupt your rhythm. With the added option to connect directly via USB-C/3.5 mm, the ELITE 8 aims to offer practical versatility that fitness-focused competitors might lack.
Who is the ELITE 8 ACTIVE GEN 2 for?
The ELITE 8 ACTIVE GEN 2 is clearly crafted for the dedicated fitness enthusiast who values durability and innovative connectivity over conventional sound quality. Those who navigate between active workouts and casual downtime will appreciate its robust features. Yet, audiophiles might still lean towards competitors promising unmatched auditory depth and richness. The Australian market, known for its active lifestyle, may find this a fitting companion, albeit with the acknowledgment that some features, like sound quality, might see rivals edging slightly ahead.
