JBL Tour Pro 2 Review: The Smartest Earbuds on the Market?
In a crowded market of true wireless earbuds, standing out requires more than just great sound. Today, we’re reviewing the JBL Tour Pro 2 – True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds with Smart Charging Case, 6-mic Perfect Calls with Voice Control, Up to 40hrs of Playtime, Immersive Spatial Sound (Black), a unique offering that aims to revolutionize how we interact with our earbuds thanks to its innovative smart charging case. Let’s dive deep and see if these earbuds live up to the hype.
Detailed Review
The JBL Tour Pro 2 immediately differentiates itself with its standout feature: the smart charging case. This isn’t just a battery pack; it’s a mini-control center. The integrated touchscreen allows you to manage playback, adjust volume, answer calls, control noise cancellation, and even set alarms, all without needing to reach for your phone. This is particularly useful when you’re on the go and want quick control without unlocking your device.
Beyond the smart case, the core earbud performance is equally impressive. JBL’s True Adaptive Noise Cancelling (ANC) works exceptionally well, utilizing 4 noise-sensing mics to dynamically adjust to your surroundings. Whether you’re on a noisy commute or trying to focus in a bustling office, the ANC effectively silences distractions, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your music or podcasts. The Smart Ambient feature is also well-implemented, letting you stay aware of your surroundings without removing the earbuds.
Call quality is another strong point. The 6-mic system delivers clear and crisp voice transmission, even in challenging environments. The VoiceAware feature is a welcome addition, allowing you to adjust how much of your own voice you hear during calls, preventing that muffled or disconnected feeling that can plague some earbuds.
Sound quality lives up to JBL’s reputation. The 10mm dynamic drivers provide a balanced and detailed sound signature, with deep bass and clear highs. The spatial audio feature adds a sense of immersion, making music and movies feel more engaging. With up to 40 hours of playtime with the charging case, battery life is excellent, ensuring you won’t be caught short on long journeys.
The JBL Headphones app provides further customization options, allowing you to fine-tune the sound profile, adjust ANC and Smart Ambient settings, and personalize the earbud controls. The app is intuitive and easy to use, making it simple to get the most out of your earbuds.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Innovative smart charging case with touchscreen control | Price point may be higher than some competitors |
| Excellent True Adaptive Noise Cancelling | Smart case adds bulk to the charging case size |
| Clear call quality with 6-mic system and VoiceAware | Some users might find the earbud shape slightly uncomfortable for extended use |
| Immersive spatial audio and legendary JBL Pro Sound | The Smart Case display, while innovative, might be prone to scratches |
| Long battery life (up to 40 hours) |
Excellent Alternatives
If the JBL Tour Pro 2 isn’t quite right for you, here are some excellent alternatives:
- Sony WF-1000XM5: Renowned for their exceptional noise cancellation and sound quality.
- Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II: Another top contender in noise cancellation, offering a comfortable fit.
- Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation): Seamless integration with Apple devices and excellent overall performance.
Final Verdict
The JBL Tour Pro 2 is a compelling package that combines excellent sound quality, effective noise cancellation, and a genuinely innovative smart charging case. While the price point may be a barrier for some, the unique features and overall performance make these earbuds a worthwhile investment for those seeking a premium and convenient listening experience. If you value having control at your fingertips without reaching for your phone, the JBL Tour Pro 2 is definitely worth considering.
Our Rating
★★★★☆ 4.5/5
