The JBL Tour Pro 2 earbuds redefine the audio experience by merging cutting-edge technology with exceptional sound quality. A true leap forward in the world of wireless earbuds, these premium earphones are designed for audiophiles and casual users alike. With features such as True Adaptive Noise Cancelling, Smart Ambient, Personi-Fi 2.0, and a game-changing smart case with a built-in touchscreen display, JBL has set a new standard in convenience and innovation. Priced at £199, these earbuds aim to provide exceptional value in a competitive market.
This comprehensive review will explore the JBL Tour Pro 2’s design, functionality, sound performance, battery life, connectivity, and overall value proposition, helping you decide if they’re the right fit for your lifestyle.
JBL Tour Pro 2: Design and Build Quality
A Futuristic Touchscreen Smart Case
The standout feature of the JBL Tour Pro 2 is its smart charging case, equipped with a 1.45-inch touchscreen display. This innovation eliminates the need to rely solely on a smartphone for controlling the earbuds. From managing calls to adjusting sound settings, toggling noise cancellation, and even finding misplaced earbuds, the case is a portable control hub. The user interface is intuitive, and its compact design fits comfortably in a pocket or bag.
The case’s sleek black finish, lightweight construction (73g), and Qi-compatible wireless charging make it a practical and stylish accessory. Despite its technological advancements, the case retains a robust build, ensuring durability over time.
Comfort and Fit
The JBL Tour Pro 2 earbuds feature an ergonomic design that prioritizes comfort. Weighing just 12.2g per earpiece, they feel lightweight and secure during extended listening sessions. The fit is snug, with interchangeable silicone ear tips ensuring a personalized experience. Whether you’re at the gym or commuting, the earbuds stay in place without causing discomfort.
Durability
Rated IPX5, the JBL Tour Pro 2 earbuds are water and sweat-resistant. This makes them ideal for active users who need reliable performance during workouts or in unpredictable weather conditions.
Sound Performance
JBL Pro Audio and Spatial Sound
JBL’s legacy in professional audio systems is evident in the Tour Pro 2. The earbuds deliver rich, detailed audio with balanced mids, sparkling highs, and punchy bass. This well-rounded sound profile caters to various music genres, from classical to electronic.
Spatial Sound further enhances the listening experience, transforming stereo content into virtual surround sound. This feature excels in creating an immersive audio environment, making movies and gaming sessions more engaging.
Personi-Fi 2.0: Personalized Audio
The Personi-Fi 2.0 feature customizes the sound output to match your unique hearing profile. By analyzing individual preferences, it adjusts frequencies to deliver an optimized listening experience. This level of personalization ensures that every note is heard as intended by the artist.
Active Noise Cancellation and Smart Ambient
True Adaptive Noise Cancelling
The JBL Tour Pro 2 excels in noise cancellation. True Adaptive Noise Cancelling dynamically adjusts to your environment, effectively blocking out distractions. This feature is particularly useful in noisy settings, such as public transportation or busy offices. Unlike traditional ANC systems, JBL’s implementation is intelligent, adapting in real-time to maintain consistent audio quality.
Smart Ambient and TalkThru
For situations where situational awareness is crucial, Smart Ambient allows outside sounds to filter in without removing the earbuds. This is invaluable for hearing announcements or engaging in quick conversations. The TalkThru feature further enhances convenience, reducing music volume to facilitate seamless interaction without pausing playback.
Call Quality
Equipped with a six-microphone array, the JBL Tour Pro 2 delivers excellent call clarity. The microphones effectively isolate your voice from background noise, ensuring smooth communication even in challenging environments. Whether you’re on a windy street or in a bustling café, callers will hear you clearly. This makes the earbuds a reliable choice for professionals who require high-quality call performance.
Battery Life and Charging
Impressive Longevity
The JBL Tour Pro 2 offers up to 40 hours of total playback time, with 10 hours from the earbuds and an additional 30 hours from the charging case. With ANC activated, the battery life remains robust at 8 hours (earbuds) plus 24 hours (case). This endurance easily covers a full day of use, making the earbuds suitable for long trips or busy schedules.
Fast and Convenient Charging
The earbuds charge fully in just 2 hours, and the case supports Qi-compatible wireless charging. The speed charge feature provides a quick boost for on-the-go users, ensuring you’re never caught without power.
Connectivity and Controls
Seamless Bluetooth 5.3 Integration
The JBL Tour Pro 2 uses the latest Bluetooth 5.3 technology, ensuring a stable and fast connection. With support for A2DP V1.3.2, AVRCP V1.6.2, and HFP V1.7.2 profiles, the earbuds offer seamless compatibility with a wide range of devices. Pairing is straightforward, and multi-point connectivity allows simultaneous pairing with two devices, enhancing multitasking convenience.
Touch Controls and Case Functionality
The earbuds feature intuitive touch controls, allowing users to manage playback, adjust volume, and access voice assistants. Combined with the smart case’s touchscreen, these controls reduce dependency on a smartphone app. The integration of voice assistants like Google Assistant and Alexa further streamlines interaction.
Audio Specifications
The 10mm dynamic drivers deliver a sensitivity of 100 dB SPL@1 kHz and a frequency response range of 20 Hz – 20 kHz. With an impedance of 16 ohms, the earbuds strike a balance between power efficiency and sound quality. These specifications ensure that the JBL Tour Pro 2 can handle high-definition audio with precision.
Price and Value Proposition
Priced at £199, the JBL Tour Pro 2 sits in the premium segment of the wireless earbuds market. While the cost may seem steep, the extensive features, excellent sound quality, and innovative smart case justify the investment. When compared to competitors like the Apple AirPods Pro 2 and Sony WF-1000XM4, the JBL Tour Pro 2 offers a unique combination of personalization, noise cancellation, and convenience.
Use Cases
For Audiophiles
The JBL Pro Audio sound profile, Spatial Sound, and Personi-Fi 2.0 make these earbuds a dream for audiophiles seeking a customized and immersive audio experience.
For Professionals
The superior call quality, ergonomic fit, and long battery life cater to professionals who rely on uninterrupted communication and productivity.
For Fitness Enthusiasts
The IPX5 rating, secure fit, and sweat-resistant design make the JBL Tour Pro 2 ideal for gym sessions and outdoor activities.
For Travelers
The combination of True Adaptive Noise Cancelling, Smart Ambient, and extended battery life ensures a hassle-free experience during commutes or long-haul flights.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Innovative Smart Case: Touchscreen display offers unparalleled control.
- Exceptional Sound Quality: Balanced audio with Spatial Sound and personalization.
- Effective Noise Cancelling: Adaptive ANC adapts to various environments.
- Long Battery Life: Up to 40 hours of playback.
- Durable and Comfortable: IPX5 rating and ergonomic fit.
Cons
- Premium Price Tag: £199 may deter budget-conscious buyers.
- Case Bulk: The smart case is slightly larger than standard cases.
- Learning Curve: Adjusting to the touchscreen case may take time.
The JBL Tour Pro 2 earbuds stand out as a groundbreaking product in the crowded wireless audio market. With their innovative smart case, superb sound performance, and user-centric features, they cater to a wide range of needs. While the price may be a hurdle for some, the value provided by these earbuds is undeniable.
Whether you’re an audiophile, professional, or casual listener, the JBL Tour Pro 2 is a compelling choice that blends cutting-edge technology with practical functionality. For those willing to invest in premium audio gear, the JBL Tour Pro 2 is a worthwhile purchase.