JBL Vibe Beam 2 True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds Review
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Introducing the JBL Vibe Beam 2 earbuds: Quality sound just got easier—and more fun with these earbuds. Featuring JBL Pure Bass Sound, Active Noise Cancelling, and Smart Ambient technology, these earbuds allow you to control the outside noise you hear. Manage hands-free calls easily with a tap. However, keep in mind the 4 mics may struggle in windy environments.
The JBL Vibe Beam 2 earbuds offer 40 hours of playback time but remember, this is with ANC off. Great for everyday use, these earbuds boast 8mm dynamic drivers delivering the exciting JBL Pure Bass sound. The ability to customize your sound using the JBL Headphones app adds a personalized touch.
Connect seamlessly with multiple Bluetooth® devices and enjoy the flexibility to switch between them effortlessly. It’s important to note that fast recharging is possible with a USB type-C cable, powering up your earbuds quickly for more listening. Voice Prompts in various languages provide helpful notifications, ensuring you don’t miss anything important. Relax with five peaceful sounds available when needed.
Key Technical Specifications
- JBL Pure Bass sound: 8mm dynamic drivers
- Active Noise Cancelling: Smart Ambient technology
- 4 mics for crisp, clear calls: Two mics on each earbud
- 40 total hours of playback: 10 hours playtime + 3 full charges (30Hrs)
- JBL Headphones app: Customize EQ, Voice Prompts in multiple languages
Are JBL Vibe Beam 2 Earbuds the Right Choice for Your Everyday Audio Needs?
In a market saturated with wireless earbuds, the JBL Vibe Beam 2 emerges as a versatile contender. It brings to the table a mix of attractive features like JBL Pure Bass Sound, Active Noise Cancelling (ANC), and an impressive playback time of up to 40 hours. But when stacked against industry heavyweights like Apple’s AirPods Pro and Sony’s WF-1000XM4, how does it truly fare?
JBL Pure Bass Sound, delivered by 8mm dynamic drivers, provides a spirited audio profile. Yet, audiophiles might find that the bass-heavy sound lacks the nuanced precision offered by Sony’s WF-1000XM4, which excels in delivering a more balanced and detailed audio experience. Nevertheless, bass enthusiasts and casual listeners who enjoy punchy low-end might appreciate what JBL has crafted here.
Meanwhile, the Active Noise Cancelling feature does an admirable job but isn’t quite industry-leading. It effectively reduces background chatter but doesn’t quite match the fierce performance of ANC in buds like the AirPods Pro. JBL’s Smart Ambient technology is a noteworthy addition, offering a degree of versatility for those needing to stay aware of their surroundings, an area where it objectively competes well.
Connectivity and Customization are robust with the JBL Vibe Beam 2. The ability to connect with up to eight devices might intrigue tech aficionados, highlighting a seamless multi-device experience. In contrast, many competitors limit the number of paired devices. The integration with the JBL Headphones app adds a layer of tailoring seldom seen at this price point, offering custom EQ settings and multipurpose voice prompts—a significant advantage for users seeking personalized control.
However, when it comes to call clarity, while the four-mic setup offers clear sound in many environments, it may not outperform the superior noise isolation mic systems found in the AirPods Pro, which tend to excel in challenging conditions.
As for battery life, up to 40 hours of playback time with ANC off is commendable. A convenient fast-charge facility adds to user ease, enabling quick top-ups for those on the go. Yet, real-world performance with ANC on might result in reduced playback time, one area where users might need to weigh their priorities.
The JBL Vibe Beam 2 is designed for those who value versatility and immersive sound without breaking the bank. Its ideal users are casual listeners and bass lovers who operate across multiple devices and want reasonable noise cancellation. While not the outright leader in all technical categories, it offers a compelling balance of features at a competitive price point, making it a practical choice for many everyday listeners in Australia and beyond.
