JBL Wave Buds 2 Review | A Great Evolution Over The Previous Gen

Summary

In this review, the JBL Wave Buds 2 are put to the test, highlighting key improvements over the previous generation. The reviewer discusses build quality, features like active noise cancelling, and the unique Voice Aware feature, which JBL is known for. A focus on sound quality reveals a slight difference in bass depth compared to the stem-style version. The review also touches on durability with water and dust resistance, praising the earbuds for their evolution. With a detailed breakdown of performance, the JBL Wave Buds 2 are recommended for anyone looking to upgrade from the first generation.

Takeaways

• 😀 The JBL Wave Buds 2 are the second generation of JBL's Wave Buds, following the first generation released around 1-2 years ago.
• 😀 The unboxing experience includes standard items: earbuds, case, charging cable, literature, and ear tips in large, medium, and small sizes.
• 😀 The build quality of the JBL Wave Buds 2 has been improved with a matte finish, which is more durable compared to the glossy finishes on some other products.
• 😀 The Wave Buds 2 follow a bud-style design, but JBL also offers stem-style earphones (Wave Beam) for those who prefer that design.
• 😀 The JBL Wave Buds 2 offer a variety of features, including an equalizer (EQ) mode for custom sound tuning and a voice-aware feature that allows users to hear their own voice during calls.
• 😀 The active noise cancelling (ANC) feature on the Wave Buds 2 is well-executed, with two microphones per earphone to improve noise isolation, especially in noisy environments like a beach or city.
• 😀 The Wave Buds 2 offer good passive isolation and improved active noise cancellation, which performs well in various settings, including at a noisy beach.
• 😀 The earphones also include environmental noise cancelling (ENC), which helps isolate the user's voice during phone calls, even in noisy environments.
• 😀 The sound quality of the Wave Buds 2 is considered superior, with an emphasis on bass depth and overall well-tuned high frequencies that are not shrill even at high volumes.
• 😀 The JBL Wave Buds 2 are praised for being a solid evolution over the previous generation, offering not just cosmetic upgrades but also improvements in performance and features.
• 😀 The Wave Buds 2 are durable, with an IP rating for water and dust resistance, and the reviewer highlights the longevity of previous models that have withstood challenging conditions, like a washing machine cycle.
• 😀 At a price point of around 3,499 to 3,999 rupees, the JBL Wave Buds 2 are a great option for users looking to upgrade from the first generation or get a new pair of reliable, feature-rich earphones.

Q & A

What is the main focus of this review?

The review primarily focuses on the JBL Wave Buds 2, their features, build quality, sound performance, and improvements over the previous generation of JBL earphones.

How does the build quality of the JBL Wave Buds 2 compare to the first generation?

The build quality of the JBL Wave Buds 2 is similar to the first generation, featuring a matte finish that offers durability. The reviewer mentions preferring matte finishes over glossy ones as they last longer.

What are the key features of the JBL Wave Buds 2?

Key features include active noise cancellation (ANC), passive isolation, an EQ mode for customization, voice aware feature, and a relaxing sound option for unwinding with calming audio.

What did the reviewer think about the active noise cancellation (ANC) in the JBL Wave Buds 2?

The reviewer found the ANC to be highly effective, stating that it does a good job at isolating noise in various environments, including a noisy beach. The ANC system includes two microphones per earbud, improving its performance compared to the first generation.

How does the voice aware feature in the JBL Wave Buds 2 work?

The voice aware feature allows users to hear their own voice while using the earphones, preventing the discomfort of not hearing their own speech during calls. The level of voice feedback can be adjusted (low, medium, or high).

What kind of sound experience can users expect from the JBL Wave Buds 2?

The JBL Wave Buds 2 deliver a sound profile with good bass, well-tuned high frequencies, and overall detailed sound. The reviewer found the earphones to offer depth and clarity, making them enjoyable for casual listening across various genres.

Is there a difference in sound quality between the JBL Wave Buds 2 and the JBL Wave Beam?

Yes, the reviewer suggests there is a slight difference in sound between the Wave Buds 2 and the Wave Beam, despite having similar internals. The Wave Buds 2 seem to offer more depth and a stronger bass presence.

What are the options for tuning the sound on the JBL Wave Buds 2?

Users can customize the sound using the JBL headphones app, which provides an EQ mode. The reviewer emphasizes that personal preferences vary, and users should tune the earphones based on their individual hearing rather than relying on presets.

What is the 'relax sound' feature, and how does it enhance the user experience?

The relax sound feature allows users to play calming sounds such as waves, a fireplace, or a forest to help unwind. This feature is found in the app and can be set with a timer, making it an ideal option for relaxation after listening to music.

How does the JBL Wave Buds 2 handle phone calls in noisy environments?

The JBL Wave Buds 2 are equipped with environmental noise cancellation (ENC), which helps isolate the user's voice during phone calls. The review includes a demo in a noisy beach setting, showing that the earphones effectively filter out background noise for clear calls.