If you're looking to buy a new pair of earphones without breaking the bank, JBL's new Wave Beam 2 might be just what you're looking for.
Despite a RRP of under $90 NZD, the Wave Beam 2 earphones pack a punch and boast features like JBL's Pure Bass Sound and Active Noise Cancelling with Smart Ambient.
On top of this, they offer IP54 water and dust resistance, a total of 40 hours playback time, along with four microphones to allow for crystal clear calls.
First impressions and setup
Available in either Black or White, the Wave Beam 2 consists of a slim charging case which houses the two earbuds.
A single LED light sits at the front of the case to indicate how much charge remains, and this can be topped up via the USB-C input at the bottom.
Connecting via Bluetooth 5.3 couldn't be easier – once you open the case for the first time, the LEDs on the earbuds will flash to indicate they're in paring mode, then you connect as normal on your device.
To customise your listening experience, the next thing you should do after connecting is download JBL Headphones app. This allows you to flick between the different Ambient Sound Control modes, decide what gesture controls you want, and play around with the equaliser. You can also access the 'Find My Buds' feature and toggle over to 'Relax Mode' – a neat addition that allows you to listen to a variety of ambient sounds to help you relax (or sleep)!
The Wave Beam 2 don't fit quite as comfortably as other, more expensive, products on the market, but this can be helped via the two pairs of additional ear tips that come in the box.
Performance
The real strength of the Wave Beam 2 is their price and how much bang you get for your buck. Gone are the days where budget headphones were just plugged into your device, and that was that - playing around on the app allows you to get the most out of your music, and it's hard to comprehend just how good these earphones sound for what you pay.
The presets – Studio, Bass, Club, Extreme Bass, Vocal, and Jazz – all offer significant difference in sound. You can even customise the equaliser fully to tailor your listening needs.
Features like Active Noise Cancelling and Ambient Aware, while not as effective as what's found on more premium products, both work well. TalkThru, a feature which allows you to speak to others while wearing both earbuds, does what it's meant to, though it's almost impossible to hear what's on your device while this mode is activated. If you want to make a call, the four microphones (two on each earbud) allow for clear calls whether you're at home or outdoors.
The battery life is another key selling point of these earphones – the earbuds hold 10 hours' worth of juice, and the case holds a further 30 hours. A quick 10-minute charge will give you a boost of around three hours playback time.
Another noteworthy feature is the IP54 water and dust resistance of the earbuds, allowing you to use the Wave Beam 2 in wet and windy conditions. The case has an IPX2 rating, so there's a bit of protection on that too.
Verdict
Wave Beam 2 are designed as budget earphones, but don't let that fool you – they sound great considering they're available to buy for well under $100 NZD.
JBL now offers audio listening devices across various price points, and these are a great way to experience the company's signature bass sound and customisability - the JBL Headphones app allows you to get the best out of your music.
Not only do they sound good – they're reliable, robust and easy to connect and use. Perfect for casual listeners, or for anyone wanting a second pair of wireless earbuds that they can throw in their work or gym bag.
