At this week’s iconic IFA trade show in Berlin, audio technology enthusiasts are about to be delighted by a series of new releases. Among the most eagerly awaited announcements, JBL unveiled two new affordable noise-cancelling headphones, promising an immersive sound experience at an accessible price. But that’s not all, as JBL also surprised visitors with three retro-inspired connected speakers, combining classic style with cutting-edge audio technology. For their part, Jabra caused a stir with two new pairs of ultra-rugged True Wireless earbuds, redefining durability and audio quality in their category.
Two affordable JBL noise-cancelling headphones
Good news! In addition to the JBL Tune 670NC and JBL Tune 770NC headphones, the JBL Live 770NC and JBL Live 670NC models have been added to the brand’s catalog. They are specially designed for those looking for a high-quality audio experience at an affordable price. Successor to the JBL Live 460 NC and positioned between the affordable JBL Tune series and the premium JBL Tour range, these new headphones offer over-ear and on-ear options to suit all users.
One of the most remarkable features of these headphones is JBL’s exclusive adaptive noise-cancelling and Smart Ambient technology (Transparent mode). With 1.6″ transducers, the JBL Live 770NC and 670NC promise to deliver the brand’s exceptional sonic signature, while allowing users to personalize their sound profile with Harman’s Personi-Fi function via the companion app. What’s more, these JBL 2023 headphones are compatible with spatial audio and support the new Bluetooth LE Audio protocol. These headphones also have an extended battery life, offering up to 65 hours of playback without noise reduction and up to 50 hours with.
The JBL Live 770NC headphones are priced the same as their predecessor, at €179, and the 670NC, the on-ear version, is due to go on sale at €129.
Two pairs of ultra-rugged Jabra True Wireless earbuds
Jabra also made a grand entrance at IFA 2023 with its two new pairs of high-end True Wireless earbuds: the Jabra Elite 8 and Jabra Elite 10.
The Jabra Elite 8 wireless earbuds are exceptionally rugged, complying with military standards for tropicalized electronics (810H) and certified IP68, making them resistant to humidity, high temperatures, rain, dust, perspiration and more. These earbuds feature Jabra ShakeGrip technology for a secure fit in the ear.
What’s more, these Jabra 2023 IEMs offer 3D Dolby sound, adaptive ANC tailored to your surroundings, and HearThrough technology (Transparent mode) to keep you aware of what’s going on around you. Packed with features, the Jabra Elite 8 earbuds boast 6 microphones for crystal-clear calls, 8 hours of battery life (and up to 56 hours with the case) and compatibility with voice assistants.
The Jabra Elite 8 wireless earbuds will be available at €229 in a range of finishes.
For their part, the Jabra Elite 10 True Wireless earbuds mark a significant step forward by offering a spatial audio experience with support for Dolby Atmos technology and Dolby Head Tracking. This allows listeners to remain at the center of the sound despite head movements, offering a more natural listening experience.
These earbuds also feature ANC with automatic adaptation to the environment, as well as Jabra ComfortFit technology for a comfortable fit and less occlusion. They offer 6 hours of autonomy (27 hours with the case), come with a pocket holder optimized for wireless charging, and are compatible with a Bluetooth multipoint connection.
The Jabra Elite 10 earbuds will be available for €249 in a range of colors.
Three retro JBL connected speakers
IFA 2023 was also the opportunity for JBL to announce its new range of retro-style speakers, called JBL Authentics. This range comprises three distinct models: the Authentics 200, Authentics 300 and Authentics 500.
The JBL Authentics 200 is equipped with two 0.8″ tweeters, a 4.7″ full-range driver and a 6″ passive radiator, offering high-quality sound in a compact format. The JBL Authentics 300 connected speaker, meanwhile, comes with a practical handle and a battery offering up to 8 hours of autonomy, making it ideal for use on the go.
Finally, the flagship of the range, the JBL Authentics 500, offers a superior sound experience thanks to three tweeters, three 2.7″ drivers and a downward-firing 6″ woofer. This speaker supports Dolby Atmos technology.
The distinguishing feature of these JBL Authentics speakers is their ability to work simultaneously with two voice assistants, namely Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Users can activate either assistant at any time using their respective voice commands. What’s more, they can even be used in tandem, making it possible, for example, to ask Alexa to start music, then Google Assistant to stop it. These retro smart speakers therefore offer exceptional versatility to meet user needs.
The JBL Authentics connected speakers will go on sale in mid-September, priced at €299 for the Authentics 200, €399 for the Authentics 300 and €599 for the Authentics 500.
