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Welcome to “Reviews inside tv,” where we dive deep into the latest and greatest in tech, giving you all the details you need before making a purchase. Today, we’re reviewing the JBL Tour One M3 Smart TX, a pair of wireless over-ear noise-canceling headphones that promise to take your listening experience to the next level. With features like hi-res audio, 70 hours of playback, adaptive noise cancellation, and spatial 360 sound with head tracking, it certainly sounds impressive on paper. But, how does it stack up in real-world use? Let’s find out.
The JBL Tour One M3 headphones are designed for audiophiles and frequent travelers alike. They come equipped with JBL’s legendary Pro Sound, powered by robust 40mm mica dome drivers, which are specifically tuned to deliver deep bass, balanced mids, and crystal-clear highs. Whether you’re streaming from a digital device via USB-C or using the 3.5mm jack for analog sources, you’re getting high-resolution audio that’s optimized for a premium sound experience. One standout feature is the 8-mic True Adaptive Noise Cancelling 2.0 system. With four mics in each ear cup, these headphones continuously monitor your environment and adjust the noise-canceling in real time. Add in a spatial 360 sound with head tracking, and you have a pair of headphones that promise an immersive audio experience unlike any other.
Now, let’s talk about how these headphones actually perform in everyday scenarios. First off, setup is incredibly easy. The smart transmitter included allows you to connect to any Auracast-enabled speakers or headphones nearby, giving you flexibility in how you stream your audio. If you’re on the go and need to connect to your phone, tablet, or laptop, you can simply plug in the USB-C cable. Using these headphones for several hours at a time, I found the sound quality to be excellent. The bass is deep, the mids are smooth, and the highs are crisp, but never piercing. The noise-canceling feature works wonders, especially in loud environments like cafes or busy streets. I didn’t hear much of anything other than the music, which is exactly what you want from a pair of noise-canceling headphones. However, I did notice that the 40-hour battery life with ANC on felt a bit less than expected when using them for long-haul flights, but the 70 hours of playback without ANC is definitely a plus for those who like to binge on music without constantly charging.
Speaking of charging, if you’re in a pinch, a quick five-minute charge can give you an additional 5 hours of playtime, which is a huge bonus. That said, if you’re relying on the ANC feature, you might find the battery life running down faster, so bear that in mind. Another thing I liked is the spatial 360 sound. The head-tracking feature keeps the audio anchored in space as you turn your head, which makes for a more realistic listening experience when watching movies or gaming. It’s a nice touch that adds to the immersive feel, but it’s more noticeable when you’re using the headphones for audio or video content that supports it.
When it comes to the pros, the sound quality is undoubtedly the biggest highlight. JBL Pro Sound does not disappoint, and the noise-canceling feature works beautifully. The long battery life, especially for those who need extended use, is another strong point. And the added convenience of the USB-C and 3.5mm jack for versatile connectivity gives these headphones some serious flexibility.
On the flip side, the 40 hours of ANC playback might fall short for those who do a lot of traveling or need longer-lasting noise isolation. While the spatial sound is fantastic for movies or immersive audio, it might not be as significant for music lovers who prefer a more traditional soundstage. The design is fairly sleek but not as lightweight as some other options, so it might not be the most comfortable for all-day wear. Additionally, the price point could be considered high for those looking for more budget-friendly options with similar features.
In terms of value for money, the JBL Tour One M3 definitely delivers on its premium price tag if you’re looking for top-tier sound quality, adaptive noise canceling, and the convenience of long battery life. It does feel like you’re getting what you pay for, especially when considering its high-resolution audio and spatial sound features. However, if you’re more focused on budget-friendly options, there are alternatives that offer good sound and ANC for less, though they might lack some of the advanced features like head tracking.
When comparing these to similar headphones on the market, the Sony WH-1000XM5 and Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 are some notable contenders. Both offer strong noise cancellation and excellent sound, but they don’t have the immersive spatial 360 sound and head tracking that the JBL Tour One M3 offers. Price-wise, the JBLs tend to fall in the same range as these competitors, but the addition of the spatial sound feature and longer battery life give them a unique edge.
As for build quality, the materials feel durable, and the construction seems solid. The ear cups are well-padded, and the headband is adjustable for a comfortable fit. Over time, the headphones show no signs of wear, but I’d still be cautious with long-term durability, especially with the electronic components inside.
Customer support-wise, JBL has a solid reputation for being responsive, but I haven’t had to reach out to them during my testing period. It’s always good to know they have a strong reputation for handling warranty and technical support issues promptly.
To wrap up, the JBL Tour One M3 is a solid choice for audiophiles and travelers alike, offering high-quality sound, advanced noise cancellation, and immersive audio features like spatial sound with head tracking. While it’s a bit pricier than some other options, the value you get in terms of performance and versatility makes it worth considering.
If you’re looking for something a bit more budget-friendly but still offering good sound quality and noise cancellation, there are alternatives worth exploring. But for those who want a more immersive experience, these headphones may just be the perfect fit.
Thanks for watching! If you’re interested in the JBL Tour One M3, the link to get it is in the comments box below. If you already own a pair, or if you have any questions, feel free to drop a comment. I’d love to hear your thoughts. Until next time, keep those reviews inside and the sound outside with “Reviews inside tv!”
Available to buy here: