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I tried these cheap wired earbuds from JBL, and they’re some of the best value in-ear headphones I’ve ever tested
7:00 pm | March 10, 2025
Author: admin | Category: Audio Computers Earbuds & Airpods Gadgets Headphones | Tags: | Comments: Off

JBL Tune 310C review

The JBL Tune 310C are a budget pair of wired earbuds designed to bring "hi-res" audio directly to you, for less than $25 / £15 / AU$30. At this price, you’re unlikely to be expecting a whole lot – and you're not wrong; buds this cheap can often falter with tinny audio, a flat design and limited feature-set. But this isn't the case here.

I’ll be upfront: you’re not going to get stunning sound quality out of the JBL Tune 310C. Sure, they can decode hi-res-quality files thanks to their built-in digital to analogue converter (DAC), but I rarely felt that I was getting a massively detailed listen. Despite that, I wouldn’t say the JBL Tune 310C are an unpleasant-sounding pair of in-ears.

When tuning into Black Eye by Allie X, bass displayed solidity, but the swift kick of the drum machine sounded a touch lethargic, meaning the track didn’t quite have its distinctive "bounce" – something the best wired earbuds are able to replicate. Meanwhile, vocals were clear, neither muffled nor distorted, although when switching to I Want You by Moloko, the singer’s breathiness was fairly muted, resulting in a less detailed, natural-sounding listen.

However, given their price, I’d still argue that the JBL Tune 310C offer adequate audio. The resonant bass and clean vocals alone make for a decent all-round listen, even if subtle intricacies are missing. Treble is pretty bright, too, when listening to Electric Tooth Brush by Toronto; I was struck by the snappy high-pitched percussion. While such delivery might wear you down after some time, it's suited to songs with a more excitable sound signature. And even with that brightness, I'd argue that these buds rarely become grating, inflicting tinny audio onto your ears, such as the Belkin SoundForm Wired Earbuds with USB-C connector, for example.

Note that if you’re not loving the sound of the JBL Tune 310C, you’re able to tweak it to your liking. That’s because these buds come with three built-in EQ options – something that isn't an option even in high-calibre, pricier alternatives such as the Master & Dynamic ME05. The EQ preset options included are Default, which offers a more balanced sound; Bass, for ramped up low-end power; and Vocal, for focusing on voices in podcasts, news broadcasts, or similar.

And they do all sound unique, which is a big plus point in my view. Having said that, I did mostly find myself sticking with Default. Don’t get me wrong, I’m a lover of bass-heavy bangers, but the Bass mode can occasionally sound a little bloated in the low-end. For instance, the drum machine in Black Eye hit with more depth in this mode, but in turn, also sounded less agile and a touch muddy.

Meanwhile, Vocal mode works very nicely when watching dialogue-heavy content, whether that’s a documentary on one of the best streaming services or a podcast on Spotify. It isn't the best for listening to music, however, since it sometimes casts a tinny layer over your favorite tracks; I'd use it sparingly.

One feature that improves the overall user experience is the inclusion of multiple sizes of ear gels, ensuring a comfortable listen regardless of your ear shape. Unlike the loose-fitting JBL Tune 305C, this enables you to form a proper in-ear seal, opening you up to the world of passive noise isolation. Is this super effective? Not really. I could still hear the odd nugget of speech when listening at around 50% volume. Nevertheless, it did dull excess noise – the sound of colleagues typing, for example. And far more effectively than the Tune 305C can.

One final feature worth mentioning is the JBL Tune 310C’s built-in mic and controller. The controller allows you to adjust volume, toggle play/pause, take calls or adjust EQ (by holding the volume up and down buttons simultaneously). Pretty neat! And the built-in mic is surprisingly good, too. When making a call and taking a voice recording, my speech could sound a little on the quiet side, but my voice was clear and pretty uninterrupted by static – something even the more expensive buds can suffer from.

In terms of looks, these wired earbuds are pretty middle of the road. The flat wire, despite being conveniently tangle-resistant, is pretty prone to bending, which isn’t so pretty to look at. And similarly to the Tune 305C, there’s plastic casing on the outside of the buds that looks a little cheap, in my opinion. I'm a fan of the small-sized USB-C adapter and handy controller, though – neither of which suffered any connectivity issues. The buds also arrive in some neat color options, including black, blue, red and white.

In my view, there are only a couple of hold-ups in terms of design. First, I experienced quite a lot of cable noise when on-the-go. Sure, that’s an inherent issue with many buds that have eartips; but it could become quite distracting when I was moving around. Second, there’s a lack of waterproofing – something I always like to have for added peace of mind if using these buds in the rain, for example.

Otherwise, though, I was pleased with what the Tune 310C could provide. They’re pretty comfortable in-ear and aren’t too hefty, meaning they won’t slip out all too easily. Audio, although unremarkable, is certainly solid given the Tune 310C’s budget cost, especially when you consider the tuning available through their three EQ modes.

So, if you’re looking for some cheap, feature-rich earbuds, then these JBL buds are worth considering. The SoundMagic E80D are better still, if you have a little extra cash – simply for the upgrade in sound quality. Plus the Skullcandy Set USB-C are a decent alternative, if you want some waterproof buds.

JBL Tune 310C in coil on surface

(Image credit: Future)

JBL Tune 310C review: Price and release date

  • $24.95 / £14.99 / AU$29
  • Launched in 2024

The JBL Tune 310C released in 2024 around the same time as the JBL Tune 305C. The latter are a looser-fitting variant more akin to the Apple EarPods. They have a very modest list price of $24.95 / £14.99 / AU$29, which is pretty much inline with the 305C and competitors like the Apple EarPods, for instance. That price is typically the same regardless of the color option you pick. For reference, these are available in black, blue, red and white.

JBL Tune 310C review: Specs

USB-C connector and controller of JBL Tune 310C

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the JBL Tune 310C?

Buy them if...

You’re looking for some inexpensive buds
EQ options, a built-in DAC and solid mic quality, all for less than $25 / £15? Oh, go on then. If you’re looking for a cheap wired option, you’ll struggle to find buds with so many features packed in. Sound quality –although not out of this world – isn’t bad either, making the 310C an excellent choice for those on a tight budget.

You’re into bass-heavy bangers
Considering the cost, I found the JBL Tune 310C offered impressively impactful bass. If you enjoy tracks with imposing low-end power, you won't go far wrong with the Tune 310C. You can even activate Bass mode by holding the volume up and down buttons simultaneously for some real low-end weight.

Don't buy them if...

You want earbuds for runs and workouts
If you want earbuds that are totally workout-ready then the JBL Tune 310C are to be avoided. They don’t have a waterproof rating to give you peace of mind for those sweaty moments, and you’ll experience quite a lot of cable noise when you’re moving about. If you want a better suited audio companion, I’d recommend checking out our guide to the best open ear headphones.

You’re an audiophile
If you value excellent, top-tier audio quality, the JBL Tune 310C aren’t going to cut it. Bass output is powerful for the price, but can get a little muddy. Vocals aren’t beautifully natural, and finer sonic details sometimes remain under wraps. Sure, they sound solid for the price, but these certainly aren’t audiophile-grade.

JBL Tune 310C review: Also consider

SoundMagic E80D
For me, the SoundMagic E80D are among the best cheap wired earbuds money can buy. Sure, they’re a little more pricey than the JBL 310C buds, but if you want a more controlled, detailed listen, they deliver with ease. They’re also comfortable in the ear and block out external noise fairly well. There really is a lot to love about the E80D, but don’t just take my word for it. Read our full SoundMagic E80D review.

Apple EarPods USB-C
Want something a bit more loose fitting? Well, the Apple EarPods USB-C are among the best budget options for you. You get decent all-round sound, a relaxed in-ear fit, and classic Apple sleekness – all for less than $20 / £20 / AU$30. Note that the open-style fit does leave you more exposed to external noise, however, so bear that in mind if you want a more focused listening experience. Read our full Apple EarPods USB-C review.

JBL Tune 310C review: How I tested

JBL Tune 310C earbuds

(Image credit: Future)
  • Tested for one week
  • Used in the office and while on walks
  • Predominantly tested using Tidal

I put the JBL Tune 310C to the test over the course of one week. When trying out these buds, I predominantly spent my time listening to music, which I did in the main through Tidal on the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE. However, I also tried them out with YouTube and Spotify on my Windows laptop.

When listening, I played through all the tracks in our TechRadar testing playlist, which contains songs from a variety of genres – read our guide on how we test earbuds for more. In addition, I spent hours tuning into songs from my personal library, while also using them in a variety of environments, including busy streets and the office at Future Labs.

I tested a cheap smart projector with surprisingly good JBL sound, but don’t get too excited
6:00 pm | February 23, 2025
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Home Theater Projectors Televisions | Tags: , | Comments: Off

The Yaber K3 is a budget smart projector that offers 1080p resolution, 1600 ANSI lumens brightness and built-in access to streaming services such as Netflix and Disney Plus. While it delivers good sound and a Google TV smart interface for cheap, its picture quality is inconsistent and there are several other issues with it as well.

A smart projector such as the Yaber K3 for $599 / £569 is a tempting prospect, especially when it can light up 40-200-inch screens. And while it’s not as well featured as the best projectors, built-in Wi-Fi and decent built-in speakers are hard to find at this price range. But some of the K3’s other main features such as its auto keystone correction and processing are sluggish and often frustrating to use. Gamers will also be better off looking elsewhere.

The K3’s picture quality is a very mixed bag. It displays natural colors and solid enough detail at times and puts in a decent showing with sports. But contrast is weak and black levels are washed out. The K3’s picture quality was never going to compete with the best 4K projectors, but even compared with some of the best portable projectors, such as the Samsung Freestyle Gen 2, the K3’s picture struggles.

Where the K3 excels is its sound, as the built-in JBL speakers are punchy and powerful, especially at this budget price range. While one of the best soundbars is still recommended, some won’t find the need to add one, especially for casual viewing.

Fundamentally, the Yaber K3 is for those who are looking for a smart projector at an affordable price for the occasional movie night. While it packs as much as it can into its budget-friendly frame, it’s not quite the bargain budget gem it could have been.

Yaber K3 projector review: Price & release date

Yaber K3 displaying orange flower

The Yaber K3 has natural enough colors but they appear washed out in some instances (Image credit: Future)
  • Price: $599 / £569 (roughly AU$942)
  • First available: September 2024

The Yaber K3 is a 1080p smart projector that follows on from Yaber’s K2 series. The K3 is priced at $599 / £569 (roughly AU$942 with direct exchange), putting it at the budget end of the projector spectrum in direct competition with portable projectors such as the Samsung Freestyle Gen 2 (also a 1080p smart projector) which has a standard price of $749 / £649.

Since its release in September 2024, there have been some discounts on the Yaber K3, with prices falling to $499 / £465 during sales events. This is similar to the discounts the Samsung Freestyle receives, as it’s regularly priced at $549 / £499 during sales events.

Yaber K3 projector review: Specs

Yaber K3 projector review: Design & features

  • 1600 ANSI lumens
  • Google TV smart interface
  • Nice fabric grill but bulky elsewhere

Yaber K3 displaying Google TV home screen

The Yaber K3 offers access to smart features and streaming via Google TV at a budget price (Image credit: Future)

The Yaber K3’s fabric front grill gives it a slightly more premium appearance than its budget price would suggest, but elsewhere it appears a little plain and oddly bulky looking. It measures 11.4 x 12.7 x 6.1 inches (290 x 3232 x 154mm) and requires a mains power supply with no battery options. There’s also a noticeable amount of fan noise after extended viewing periods.

The K3 has a specified 1080p resolution and 1600 ANSI lumens brightness. It has a 1.2:1 throw ratio and fits screens from 40-200 inches. Auto and manual keystone adjustment and object detection count among its features, but I generally found that auto keystone was frustrating and often didn’t calibrate correctly to the Optoma 80-inch portable screen I was using for my tests. Manual keystone correction can only be done via the Yaber homepage and not while watching content – another aspect I found frustrating.

Despite its budget price, it uses Google TV as a smart TV interface. This provides access to some of the best streaming services including Netflix, Prime Video and Disney Plus. For connections, it has two HDMI ports, one USB-A port, a 3.5mm audio output and Bluetooth wireless.

The K3 has a surprisingly robust built-in speaker system for such a budget projector, with dual 15W JBL speakers totaling 30W of power.

No gaming features are included on the K3. For those looking for a gaming projector, you’re better off with something like the BenQ X300G.

  • Design & features: 3/5

Yaber K3 projector review: Picture & sound quality

Yaner K3 displaying La La Land pier scene

The Yaber K3 displays details well on occasion, but textures and contrast are often inconsistent and unbalanced (Image credit: Future)
  • Inconsistent picture quality
  • Decent enough colors
  • Surprisingly punchy sound

For my testing, I used an Optoma 80-inch, 1.0 gain matte white projection screen. I first began by taking brightness measurements using a colorimeter, and the K3 yielded results of 109 nits and 93 nits in Standard and Natural picture modes respectively, putting it above 4K portable projectors such as the LG CineBeam Q (which yielded 60 nits in Filmmaker Mode).

Moving on to critical viewing, I first looked at an HD stream of Star Wars: The Last Jedi on Disney Plus, focusing on the throne room fight scene. Colors were natural enough, but they lacked any sort of dynamic punch. Characters’ skin tones also appeared washed out, even in the most accurate Natural picture mode (though there wasn’t a great deal of difference between the various picture modes). The same was true for La La Land on Blu-ray, which showed natural colors but also inaccurate textures, although in some scenes details were more refined than I’d anticipated.

Next, I watched a Blu-ray of The Batman to test black levels and contrast. While mostly acceptable, I found some scenes difficult to watch due to limited brightness (namely the opening crime scene investigation) even in blacked-out viewing conditions. In brighter scenes, details were clear and accurate enough, but there was a gray wash over the screen and textures still appeared fuzzy.

One area where the K3 did well was with sports. Watching soccer matches in Sports mode, the action was smooth and accurate enough that the games were watchable, though it won’t beat more premium projectors.

While the K3’s picture is average, its built-in sound is surprisingly good. Equipped with a JBL speaker system totaling 30W of power, the K3's sound is punchy, detailed and clear. Watching the Batmobile chase sequence in The Batman, the sound of swerving cars was accurately presented, with a strong sense of direction. The rumble of the Batmobile’s engine had a hefty amount of bass and plenty of power, especially for small built-in projector speakers.

Even La La Land’s dynamic, jazzy score was presented with real clarity, with a good balance between the horns, strings and vocals throughout. While the JBL speaker’s soundstage is limited by its size, it’s still surprisingly effective for a built-in speaker at this price range.

  • Picture and sound quality: 3/5

Yaber K3 projector review: Value

Yaber K3 remote

The Yaber K3's remote is cheap-feeling but has the buttons you need (Image credit: Future)
  • Smart projector for a budget price
  • Cheaper than most portable projectors
  • Overall performance is frustrating

The $599 / £569 Yaber K3 is good value for those looking for an affordable projector that provides access to streaming services via the Google TV smart platform. It isn’t going to beat more premium projectors and may even struggle against some of the best portable projectors, but for those looking for a casual projector, the K3 is a budget-friendly option.

Unfortunately, shortcomings in the K3’s picture quality and some frustrations with setup such as keystone correction hold it back from being a budget gem. You’ll have to make some sacrifices, particularly with sound, on other portable projectors such as the Samsung Freestyle Gen 2, but the Freestyle is likely to give you a more consistent experience for a similar price.

  • Value score: 3.5/5

Should I buy the Yaber K3 projector?

Yaber K3 displaying The Batman shot of Gotham on screen

Black levels are one of the K3's weakest areas, with pictures appearing washed out at most times (Image credit: Future)

Buy it if...

You want a smart projector for cheap
If you're looking for a projector with access to streaming services like Netflix but don't want to break the bank, the Yaber K3 ticks the boxes. View Deal

You want a projector with solid built-in sound
Yes, the K3's JBL speaker system isn't going to beat a soundbar, but at this price, it does a pretty good job.View Deal

Don't buy it if...

You want a consistent picture
Brightness and colors are OK on the K3, but its contrast, textures, detail and motion handling are all inconsistent, with not many ways to tweak or improve things.View Deal

You want a hassle-free setup
In my testing, I found both auto and manual keystone adjustments to be frustrating and time-consuming. View Deal

Also consider

Samsung Freestyle Gen 2
The Samsung Freestyle may not be as bright and its sound isn't as good as the Yaber K3s sound, but its interface is more responsive and its overall picture quality is superior. Although pricier normally, the Freestyle Gen 2 is frequently on sale. Read our full Samsung Freestyle Gen 2 projector review.

Xgimi MoGo 3 Pro
The MoGo 3 Pro is a budget, portable HD projector that's cheaper than the K3 and it offers HDR support and good picture quality. But the K3 takes the crown when it comes to sound. Read our full Xgimi MoGo 3 Pro review.

LG CineBeam Q
Pricier than the K3, the LG CineBeam Q offers 4K resolution in a compact, stylish portable design. Its interface is also more responsive. The K3 may have better sound, but it pales in comparison in all other areas. Read our full LG CineBeam Q review.

How I tested the Yaber K3 projector

Yaber K3 testing setup

(Image credit: Future)
  • Tested with an Optoma 1.0 gain, matte white 80-inch screen
  • Tested using Blu-ray, streaming sources
  • Measurements taken using Portrait Displays' Calman calibration software

To test the Yaber K3 projector, I first used high definition and standard definition sources including Blu-ray and streaming. I tested the K3's picture quality, analyzing color, contrast, black levels, detail and motion. I also evaluated its built-in JBL sound using the same reference scenes from movies and TV shows.

I used a colorimeter, test pattern generator and Portrait Displays' Calman color calibration software to record measurements for brightness, contrast ratio and color and grayscale accuracy.

The projector was primarily tested in pitch-black conditions in our testing room at TechRadar and also in full ambient light settings to see how it handled brighter viewing environments.

JBL 104-BT Compact Desktop Reference Monitors review: great, but not for their intended purpose
10:44 pm | September 19, 2024
Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Gadgets Mics & Speakers Peripherals & Accessories | Tags: | Comments: Off

JBL 104-BT: Two-minute review

JBL 104-BT speakers next to a gaming laptop on a desk

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)

The JBL 104-BT are great speakers if you get them for the right reason. If you’re looking for the best computer speakers for general use, you’ll be very happy with these, thanks to a warm-leaning yet full frequency range that lends itself well to music listening as well as gaming and streaming (as long as you don’t need any real sub-bass).

They’re not quite as immersive as the best gaming headsets, but they’re more than immersive enough. However, reference monitors they are not.

If you’re trying to put together a home studio, you want monitors that give you an accurate representation of what you’re working on. If you have speakers that have somewhat of a boost in the low-mids as these do, then when you go to listen to your music on other speakers or headphones, you’ll realize that you compensated for that boosted area and have a track that’s lacking in that same frequency range.

Keep that in mind when going through this review as these are very enjoyable to listen to, are relatively affordable, and come with the appropriate amount of features (minus one or two). That’s why you should consider them – not for music production.

JBL 104-BT: Price and availability

  •  How much does it cost? $149.00 / £199.99 / AU$289.00 
  •  When is it available? Available now 
  •  Where can you get it? Available in the US, UK and Australia 

The JBL 104-BT aren’t the cheapest computer speakers out there, but they’re pretty affordable at $149.00 / £199.99 / AU$289.00. Considering the sound quality, that’s pretty good value as well. Of course, for that price, the JBL 104-BT should include a sub out at the very least.

As far as alternatives go, the Edifier MR4 are worth a consideration. They go for slightly less at $129.99 / £109.99 / AU$179.99, and they actually work a bit better for reference speakers, but also miss out on that low-end.

If you’re looking for a pair of computer speakers for reference work, the Vigilant Audio SwitchOne I reviewed back in 2022 are still a fantastic option, since they use passive radiators on the side to fill out that low end. Of course, they retail for a bit more at $249 (£255 / AU$471).

If you want a subwoofer and are willing to spend a bit more, however, the Kanto Ora, with a price tag of $349.99 / AU$699.95 (about £287), are really, really good. They work fairly well as reference speakers as well, though they have a slightly scooped mid-range. 

  • Value: 4.5 / 5

JBL 104-BT: Specs

JBL 104-BT: Design

JBL 104-BT speaker kit, including wires, laid out neatly on a desk mat

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)

Before we dig in much more about why they’re good for certain things and not for others, let’s discuss the JBL 104-BT’s design. These speakers come in either a matte black or matte white colorway, with the one I received for testing coming in black.

They stand at a little under ten inches tall and six inches wide (they have a depth of almost five inches), which is fairly diminutive for a pair of speakers. Sure, you can find smaller, but they’re probably going to have a thinner or brighter sound.

They both contain a 4.5-inch driver and a 0.75-inch soft dome driver for the highs, though I can only see the larger one through the front grille. Both speaker boxes are ported on the back as well to improve bass response.

Since these are powered speakers, one of them is a little heavier at 4.54 lbs compared to the other’s weight of 3.81 lbs. While they connect to each other with basic red and black speaker wires, the one with the power amp also allows ⅛-inch aux, RCA, and TRS balanced inputs, not to mention Bluetooth connectivity.

Image 1 of 2

Back side port selection on the JBL 104-BT speakers

JBL 104-BT backside port selection (Image credit: Future / James Holland)
Image 2 of 2

JBL 104-BT speaker frontside controls

Controls on the front of the JBL 104-BT (Image credit: Future / James Holland)

While most of the inputs are on the back, the aux input is on the front along with a headphone out and the controls, including a backlit volume knob and an input selector. There’s also an LED indicator when you have something connected via Bluetooth.

Unfortunately, there’s no sub out – a fateful omission as we’ll discuss later. And, though far from a deal breaker, there’s no physical digital connectivity like USB. Considering the digital-to-audio converters, or DACs, that come in computers and laptops vary quite a bit, it would have been a nice inclusion.

JBL 104-BT: Performance

JBL 104-BT speakers set up on either side of a gaming laptop

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)

As far as the sound quality goes, it’s worth repeating that these are solid sounding speakers that are pleasing to listen to, but are not appropriate for music production work, podcasters possibly notwithstanding.

Since there’s no subwoofer or sub out, you’re limited on the low end. The JBL 104-BT only goes down to 60Hz (a low note on a standard bass is 41Hz for reference). This means that anything that needs that low end to really come alive – hip hop, EDM, or games and movies with massive amounts of explosions – are going to feel a bit truncated. That doesn’t mean you won’t feel some of the impact of those 808 drums or the rumble of whatever’s happening in the latest Nolan movie. You just won’t feel all of it.

That said, there’s a boost in the low-mids to compensate for that. This boost is probably the biggest deterrent for using these speakers as reference monitors. However, it adds a richness and fullness to any audio that also makes these speakers very pleasing to listen to. There’s also plenty of punch and immediacy to what you’re hearing, so that while you won’t feel your bones shaking from subwoofer-level rumble, there’s still a visceral element to the sound.

The rest of the mids sit nicely in the mix, while the high-end is present in a pleasing way. The high-end isn’t too sharp and it isn’t too muted either.

Where I’m actually most impressed with the JBL 104-BT is its sound imaging, and by extension, the soundstage. The soundstage with speakers are all about placement so you can affect how wide something sounds just by how far apart the speakers are. Still, these speakers did a good job of making you feel that separation of audio elements that are only on the left or right side, not to mention moving around.

However, what really jumped out at me was the center channel. The JBL 104-BT is a stereo speaker system with just two speaker boxes. But, with every stereo speaker system, you really have the left, the right, and the center, even if it’s not represented by its own physical speaker.

Good speakers, along with good speaker placement, are able to make that center audio – usually dialogue or vocals – sound like it’s floating right in front of you instead of sounding like part of it is coming from one speaker and part of it is coming from the other.

With the JBL 104-BT, that center channel felt like it was right in front of me to the point that I kept checking the speakers on the laptop to make sure they weren’t also getting in on the action (they weren’t).

Considering these retail for around $150, what you’re getting is pretty remarkable as long as you use them to elevate your everyday audio experience. If you’re using them for music production, you’ll probably like the way they sound, minus that low-end, but you’re going to have a hard time creating music that sounds good on other systems. If you keep that in mind, these are an easy pair of speakers to recommend.

Should I buy JBL 104-BT Compact Desktop Reference Monitors?

Buy it if...

You want great sound for general use

The sound quality will elevate whatever media you’re consuming at least a level, if not two, as long as you don’t care about a big low end. The low-mids, in particular, are very rich sounding.

You don’t have a lot of desk space

The JBL 104-BT are able to offer quite a bit without taking up too much space, so if you have a small or cramped desk, then these speakers might be for you.

You want immersion without breaking the bank

You don’t have to spend a lot to get a great soundstage and sound imaging with these speakers, particularly the way they’re able to recreate the center audio channel.

Don't buy it if...

You need reference level audio

Despite the name, the frequency range isn’t appropriate for music production work. Besides the fact that the low-end is weak, the rest of the frequency range isn’t flat the way it should be.

You need a subwoofer

There’s no subwoofer or way to connect one, so there’s no way to get any rumble, whether you want it for movies, games, or music.

Also Consider

Edifier MR4 studio monitors

While the Edifier MR4 don’t have any digital input including Bluetooth or the ability to connect a subwoofer, they still sound great, especially for the price.

Read our full Edifier MR4 studio monitors review

Kanto Ora Reference Desktop Speakers

The Kanto Ora Reference Desktop Speakers are a bit more expensive, but they come with a subwoofer and sound fantastic. They also come with USB-C connectivity. Just be aware the mid-range is a little scooped if you plan to use them for music production.

Read our full Kanto Ora Reference Desktop Speakers review 

How I tested the JBL 104-BT

  •  Used regularly for a couple weeks
  • Tested with all sorts of games and music
  • Tested different forms of connectivity

I used the JBL 104-BT Compact Desktop Reference Monitors regularly for a couple weeks. I used them to listen to all sorts of music as well as play a number of games including Cyberpunk 2077, Hogwarts Legacy, Hitman, and Battlefield 2042.

After using these speakers, it’s clear that they are great for general use, but not ideal for reference work, i.e. music production, despite the accessible price tag.

I’ve tested a lot of tech gear over the years from laptops to keyboards and speakers, and so have been able to use my expertise towards giving an honest and fair opinion, not to mention a critical eye, to any product I test.

  •  First reviewed July 2024
Lenovo Tab Plus launches with 11.5″ screen, eight JBL speakers, integrated kickstand
9:31 pm | June 20, 2024
Author: admin | Category: Mobile phones news | Tags: | Comments: Off

Today Lenovo has unveiled the new Tab Plus, an 11.5-inch tablet that's all about entertainment. Thus, it comes with eight JBL speakers and an integrated kickstand with up to 175 degrees of "viewing flexibility", Lenovo says. It can also transform into a Bluetooth speaker if you want it to - not physically, mind you, this just means you can connect to it with your phone as if it were a Bluetooth speaker and easily play stuff on its speakers. It comes with a personalized app volume control feature, which for example can automatically crank up the volume when a specific app is open, lower the...

LG S95TR soundbar review: Dolby Atmos immersion done right
2:00 pm | May 26, 2024
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Soundbars Televisions | Tags: , , , | Comments: Off

LG S95TR Soundbar: Two minute review

LG S95TR in living room

The LG S95TR soundbar system fresh out of the box (Image credit: Future)

I’ll cut to the chase: The LG S95TR is a fantastic soundbar system. In fact, it might be among the best soundbars available right now. And that’s without considering its first-party feature set when paired with certain LG TVs – something I’ll touch on but won’t dive into too deeply.

Overall, there’s very little to dislike about the LG S95TR. Just about everything that keeps it from being perfect, besides its high price, is due to how basic the LED display is or the fact that some features require opening the app. Having to reach for the phone to turn on “Night Time” mode is a bit of an inconvenience, especially when that setting could have been made available on the remote, for instance.

However, the positives here far outweigh the cons. Even though this is a 9.1.5-channel system, for example, setup and even calibration were about as streamlined as it can get when multiple units are involved. And the feature set is about as deep as one could expect from a system competing with the best Dolby Atmos soundbars. None of that matters if the sound quality isn’t there, but the LG S95TR delivers in that regard as well with its immersive, engrossing, and engaging audio.

In the grand scheme of things, the LG S95TR’s $1,499 / AU$1,699 (about £1,200) price is actually not bad when compared to the competition. And if you were to buy a separate Dolby Atmos speaker system with one of the best AV receivers, you would spend even more. So, despite the high asking price, the S95TR’s cost does seem reasonable when you put it in perspective.

Whether the LG S95TR is for you will depend on your needs. If you’re working with a small room or setup, this system is probably too much for you. You might be happy with something that only costs a couple hundred dollars. However, if you want to match the convenience of a soundbar system with the immersive performance of a true home theater speaker setup, you can’t go wrong here.

LG S95TR in living room

The LG S95TR's front panel LED display provides insufficient visual feedback, forcing you to rely on the app for settings and adjustments (Image credit: Future)

LG S95TR Soundbar review: Price & release date

  • Released in March 2024 (US and Australia)
  • $1,499.99 / AU$1,699.01 (about £1,200)

As part of LG’s 2024 AV lineup, the LG S95TR is fairly new. It isn’t even available yet in the UK, where the previous generation, the S95QR, is still on offer for £1,699. However, those in the US and Australia can get it right away as of May 2024 for $1,499.99 / AU$1,699.01 (about £1,200).

Considering that the LG S95TR is a 9.1.5-channel system, its price tag is not as exorbitant as it might seem. After all, a regular home theater audio setup can get much more expensive when you take into account the need for at least five quality speakers, a subwoofer, and an AV receiver. And, that’s even before accounting for the upward-firing Dolby Atmos speakers (the “5” in 9.1.5).

LG S95TR Soundbar review: Specs

LG S95TR in living room

Dual HDMI 2.1 ports with 4K 120Hz support are provided on the soundbar (Image credit: Future)

LG S95TR Soundbar review: Features

  • Some features meant specifically for LG TVs
  • Wi-Fi streaming and voice assistant support
  • AI Room Calibration is a revelation

Let’s first discuss the LG S95TR features that owners of the LG B4, LG C4, and LG G4 Series OLED TVs may enjoy. These include WOW Orchestra (uses the TV’s built-in speakers in conjunction with the soundbar system for an even fuller sound), WOW Interface (lets you use one remote for both the TV and soundbar, with setup available on the TV), and WOWCAST (lets you pair the soundbar with the LG TV wirelessly). I didn’t have access to an LG TV during my review and could not dig into those features. But even so, I found the LG S95TR soundbar still very feature-filled.

For instance, even if you can’t take advantage of WOWCAST, the rear speakers and subwoofer still pair wirelessly to the soundbar. So, outside of the power cables, the only wire you’ll see is the HDMI or optical cable connecting the soundbar to the TV.

The LG S95TR is also plenty room-filling without WOW Orchestra. Not only do you get full surround sound, but five upward firing speakers that work with both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X soundtracks. It should also be noted that you can listen to stereo content as if it’s in surround sound. That’s not to say that the soundbar’s processing will remix the music so that a saxophone (if you listen to music with a saxophone) only comes from the back left speaker, but, you will get an immersive sound presentation.

Some other critical features include Wi-Fi streaming so you can play music from your favorite streaming service without having to use a lower-quality Bluetooth connection (though you can do that as well). You can also use Alexa or Google Assistant for voice control. 

My favorite feature, however, is LG’s Advanced AI Room Calibration. Speaker placement is critical for getting good sound, and a feature that can adjust how sound is projected based on speaker placement is key, especially when one of your rear speakers is literally sitting on an old chest. It’s a quick process as well that is available through the app.

My neighbor’s favorite feature, though they don’t know it, is the Night Time mode, also only available in the app. This feature makes everything sound a bit flatter as the audio gets compressed to keep sound peaks from getting too loud. It’s a useful feature for when you’re worried about waking someone up when watching a movie late at night.

  • Features score: 5 / 5

LG S95TR rear speakers on floor in living room

The LG S95TR's rear-channel speakers feature up-firing drivers for immersive Dolby Atmos sound (Image credit: Future)

LG S95TR Soundbar review: Performance

  • Clear sound, even at low volume
  • Very good Dolby Atmos immersion
  • Slightly forward mid-range response

With 810 watts of power, the LG S95TR has more than enough volume on tap. Loudness doesn’t necessarily equal good sound, but thankfully the LG S95TR sounds very good.

When testing, I watched movies and shows including Everything, Everywhere, All At Once, Shogūn, and Psych, and listened to plenty of music. Also during testing, I used different audio modes including the AI mode from the room calibration feature.

When watching Everything, Everywhere, All At Once, the LG S95TR was in Cinema mode. Not only did I feel the rumble from the subwoofer every time there was some low-end information, but it came through clearly (some cheaper soundbar subs often produce a flabby bass response). And the same held even when I lowered the volume.

In fact, I did a lot of listening on this soundbar at a lower volume. Why? Because at lower volumes, TV audio is often uneven and tinny with some sound getting swallowed up. But the LG S95TR soundbar reproduced everything in a way that I could have the volume just above audible and still make out every sound and nuance.

The system’s surround and Dolby Atmos capabilities are very robust. Shogūn has a lot of dialogue inside traditional Japanese homes overlooking gardens. Watching it, I at first wasn’t sure if I was hearing anything, but when I put my ears to the rear speakers, I realized that there actually was a lot going on because I heard the ambient sounds of a garden and pond. The ambient sound also had a sense of dimension thanks to the upward-firing Atmos drivers in the rear speakers.

Night Time mode was effective in that if flattened the sound (it’s compressing the audio after all) but in a way that made everything still very audible. I had no issues hearing anything even with the feature on and the volume low. Compared to similar modes on TVs when using the TV’s built-in speakers, the S95TR’s Night Time mode was superior.

Lastly, the LG S95TR’s stereo up-mixing is a treat when listening to music. You still get a stereo image, but all of the speaker drivers on the soundbar and rear speakers are engaged. It’s not as detailed as what you would hear with audiophile speakers, but unless you’re deep down that rabbit hole, you’ll be very happy. As far as its overall frequency response, LG’s soundbar has a slightly forward mid-range, and it’s a profile that lends itself better to audio from movies, TV shows, and games.

  • Performance score: 5 / 5

LG S95TR subwoofer on floor in living room

LG's wireless subwoofer adds real low-end rumble to soundtracks (Image credit: Future)

LG S95TR Soundbar review: Design

  • Discreet and mostly wireless design
  • LED indicators don’t provide enough information
  • Many features and controls require app

 The LG S95TR soundbar’s looks aren’t going to wow anyone. It looks like a basic matte black soundbar with a subwoofer and two slightly strange-looking wedge-shaped rear speakers, all with some extra upward-facing grilles (well, except the sub). But even though it doesn’t have the mid-century chic of a Bang & Olufsen soundbar, which would cost almost twice the price, it fits in discreetly enough – something helped out by the wireless subwoofer and rear speakers.

However, any complaints I have about the LG S95TR will be in this section. Three LED indicator lights near the right side of the soundbar take the place of an LED display. You’ll see a red light when you power down, some green lights when adjusting the volume, and three blinking white lights when trying to pair with a Bluetooth source. Considering how many features are on hand here, there just isn’t enough information on the soundbar that's visible at a glance.

The remote, for instance, has a button to toggle through different sound modes such as Cinema, Music,Game, etc. But not only do you not know which mode you’re on, but you don’t know which one you’re switching to just by looking at the soundbar or remote, and the same goes for the volume level. 

The only way to get that information is to download, pair, and open LG’s control app – my second bone of contention. The app itself is perfectly fine. However, some features, such as Night Time mode are only available in the app, when they could have had their own button on the included remote control. Overall, these are far from dealbreakers, but they still are little annoyances.

As far as ports go, the selection is pretty minimal, with two HDMI ports (one with eARC), a USB port, and an optical digital input. The HDMI ports at least support 4K 120Hz and HDR10 passthrough, something PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X gamers will appreciate.

  • Design score: 4 / 5

LG S95TR packaging on chair

LG's packaging for the S95TR is mercifully free of styrofoam, using mostly recyclable paper and cardboard (Image credit: Future)

LG S95TR Soundbar review: Setup & usability

  • System is well packaged
  • Setup is quick and easy
  • App is intuitive to use

The LG S95TR is a soundbar system and not just an all-in-one soundbar, so getting it out of the box is somewhat overwhelming. The box is big, but that’s partially because of how well-packaged everything is. I also appreciate that LG didn’t use styrofoam for its packaging.

Once everything is unboxed, you need to scope out where to place the rear speakers and plug in the various speakers in the order specified in the manual. Interestingly, when I first plugged everything in, the soundbar announced via a voice prompt that the rear speakers were on the wrong sides. Plugging everything in took five or ten minutes, which is quite convenient compared to a standard home theater system.

With everything set up, using the system is very easy. With the soundbar connected to the HDMI ARC port, I could use my TV’s remote to control volume. The app is also very easy and intuitive from adjusting volume, switching modes and sources, to setting up the various features. You can even manually adjust sound settings per speaker, which is a nice touch.

  • Setup & usability score: 5 / 5

LG S95TR on table top surface shown

Three up-firing Atmos drivers are located on the LG S95TR's top surface, with the center driver also helping to elevate dialogue to screen-level (Image credit: Future)

LG S95TR Soundbar review: Value

  • Pricey
  • Reasonable compared to high-end competition
  • Stiff competition from Samsung and JBL

Although the LG S95TR is pretty expensive, this is a 9.1.5-channel system, so you’re getting much more than just a soundbar. If you want detailed sound with some dimension but don’t care about a true surround sound experience, you can get a standalone soundbar and save money. Even the Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar, which is still relatively pricey at £899 / $899 / AU$1499, will set you back much less (and take up less space). 

Of course, if you want the rumble of a subwoofer and real surround sound – basically, the home theater experience – you’re going to have to spend more. For instance, the flagship Samsung HW-Q990D, a 11.1.4-channel soundbar system, retails for even more than the LG at $1,799 / £1,699 / AU$1,995.

Or consider the JBL Bar 1300X with its rechargeable rear speakers. At $1,699 / £1,299 / around AU$2,570, it also costs just a little more than the LG system but doesn’t have 4K 120Hz HDMI passthrough for gaming.

  • Value score: 4 / 5

Should I buy the LG S95TR Soundbar?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

LG S95TR Soundbar review: Also consider

How I tested the LG S95TR Soundbar

LG S95TR on table with subwoofer on floor

(Image credit: Future)
  • I used the LG S95TR Soundbar for a few weeks
  • Tested with both TV, movies, and music

I used the LG S95TR Soundbar regularly for a few weeks with TV, movies, and music. I compared it to just my TV’s speakers alone, listened to the different sound modes, and tested the various features.

As expressed in the review, this is a powerful, immersive system that delivers a true home theater experience in a convenient soundbar package.

I’ve tested a lot of tech gear over the years from laptops to keyboards and speakers, and use my expertise to give an honest, fair, and informed opinion on any product I test.

Read more about how we test

  • First reviewed: May 2024
Anker Soundcore Space One review: a bargain Beats alternative with ANC
4:00 pm | September 1, 2023
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets | Tags: , , | Comments: Off

Anker Soundcore Space One review: Two-minute review

Anker is that name you seek out when your budget is a little tighter than ideal but you still want something good quality with a few neat features. The Anker Soundcore Space One reflect that ethos perfectly. While they don't offer sound as meaty as the best headphones, they're clearly punching above their weight at just $100/£100. 

A quick glance instantly shows you that the Anker Soundcore Space One are trying to be like Beats. They have a very similar build and they're about the same kind of weight. Outside of people like us, most people wouldn't immediately notice the difference visually. Available in a few different colors, that attitude is even more obvious. While these are more on a par with the best cheap headphones, the Anker Soundcore Space One still offer some key features.

There's powerful ANC with easy to use options via the Soundcore app. Up to 40 hours of listening time is possible here with ANC enabled while a massive 55 hours can be achieved with it switched off. In our time, that proved accurate too. A quick five-minute charge gives back four hours working out a pretty useful backup.

The 40mm dynamic drivers aren't great out of the box but spend some time with the HearID function via the app and you'll soon get the Anker Soundcore Space One sounding just how you want them to. As is often the way with cheaper headphones, bass is the highlight here but sound on the whole is crisp and clear. 

LDA support is available for Android phones while there's Hi-Res audio certification for both wired and wireless use. All the key boxes are ticked here. The only main one that the Anker Soundcore Space One falters on is wear detection. 

During our time testing, it was very patchy. Sometimes it would work and other times, you'd realise too late that you'd missed a half a song to interact with the world. With a strong transparency mode, this is less relevant when talking to people but if you're pausing while relaxing at home, it's a bit of an irritant to not be able to rely on it.

Still, we'll let that one go a little bit as we eye up the price of the Anker Soundcore Space One and enjoy other options like Multi-point that you may not get elsewhere at this price. Overall, the Anker Soundcore Space One are a bit of a bargain. The kind of headphones to make you question spending hundreds on more premium brands, Anker's got things ticking along nicely here.

Anker Soundcore Space One review review: Price and release date

Anker Soundcore Space One

(Image credit: Future)
  • Released August 2023
  • $99 / £99

The Anker Soundcore Space One are shrewdly priced at $99 / £99. Currently available in the US, UK, and Europe, they're available direct from Soundcore as well as from third-party retailers. 

Colors wise, you have three options – black, blue, and a white that's more like cream. One of their nearest rivals is the Sony WH-CH520 at $59 / £50. There's no ANC though. 

For ANC, consider the JBL Tune 750BTNC at $99/£99. Battery life is way lower at 15 hours with ANC on and they're showing their age with Bluetooth 4.2 support, but they sound great. 

Anker Soundcore Space One review: Specs

Anker Soundcore Space One review: Features

Anker Soundcore Space One

(Image credit: Future)
  • ANC is good for the price
  • Hi-res audio support
  • Multi-point pairing 

The Anker Soundcore Space One is a veritable checklist of everything you'd likely need or want from headphones. There's Hi-res audio support along with LDAC for Android users -- something you don't always see in this price range. 

Alongside that, there's the Soundcore companion app that isn't overwhelming nor too basic. You'll need to dive in for a few minutes to set up HearID to get the most from these cans' audio but it's worth it. It's like an eye test for your ears with you simply choosing the option that sounds best for you before a new EQ is devised for your needs. 

Elsewhere in the app, you can adjust the ANC. For the most part, leaving it on adaptive ANC is the best move. It adjusts fairly well based on your surroundings but there's also a custom option for times when you need to crank it up even further. Transparency mode can also be enabled here allowing you to easily converse with others without taking them off. Delve further and you can use Easy Chat options to allow you to lower the volume at the touch of the ear cup for when you need to speak to someone, or even use speak to enable so no input is needed from you.

The latter is in beta and much like wear detection, it's not to be relied on. In our time of reviewing it, the Anker Soundcore Space One has already been updated to improve wear detection but more work needs to be done.

Wobble aside and the Anker Soundcore Space One smashes it out the park with its ANC. At this price, you rarely get ANC that feels much better than passive noise isolation but these are special. Whack ANC on and you won't hear conversations nearby you. You'll hear traffic as you walk but it's still blocked out sufficiently so that it doesn't disrupt your listening experience. While the Anker Soundcore Space One may not be perfect, they're more than good enough for blocking out all the most irritating sounds that life brings with it.

  • Features score: 4/5

Anker Soundcore Space One review: Sound quality

Anker Soundcore Space One

(Image credit: Future)
  • Strong bass 
  • Hi-res support
  • Mostly crisp and clear

Dive into the Anker Soundcore Space One and expect the sound quality of a $350/£350 pair of cans and you'll be disappointed. When it comes to the finer touches like detailed mids and the right amount of treble, the Anker Soundcore Space One doesn't really hit the spot. It's fine but nothing special.

However, when it comes to a strong level of bass and a wide soundstage, you can't go wrong with these cans. Focusing on bass is a familiar concept for many budget headphones but when Daft Punk's Around the World kicked in on our 90s playlist, we were delighted at how thumping it felt and what a wide soundstage experience there was. 

For more vocal-heavy songs like John Legend's All of Me, you still get a crisp experience. Similarly, podcasts and other types of spoken word sound just fine and suitably clear.

If you're more of a nuanced music listener, the Anker Soundcore Space One won't hit the spot in quite the same way, but for cans to wear on your commute or walk, they're just right. 

There's always Hi-Res audio with LDAC support for Android users too if you want something a little richer.

One quick note – bear in mind that the sound quality is based on you spending the time setting up your HearID profile. Out of the box, the Soundcore Space One doesn't sound anywhere near as good so it makes a crucial difference. 

  • Sound quality score: 3.5/5

Anker Soundcore Space One review: Design

Anker Soundcore Space One

(Image credit: Future)
  • Look a lot like Beats
  • Comfy headband
  • Folding design 

Glancing at the Anker Soundcore Space One next to a pair of Beats and it's surprisingly hard to tell the difference. They're clearly influenced by them right down to the logo on each earcup looking similar. They're not quite as stylish with fewer curved edges but there's not much in it.

Crucially, the Anker Soundcore Space One are well-padded. The ear cups get a bit warm when it's hot but they keep your ears comfy for however long you use them for. Similarly, the headband feels great with no clamping force wrecking your day. Extending the headband makes a kind of crunch noise but it doesn't sound worrying and it's simple enough to find the right fit for you. 

Both ear cups fold in so you can easily store these headphones without them taking up any more room than they have to. A small travel pouch is included for a bit of extra protection but solely in your bag folded should keep them safe. 

  • Design score: 4/5

Anker Soundcore Space One review: Value

Anker Soundcore Space One

(Image credit: Future)
  • Very well-priced
  • Likely to be new leader
  • Always hope for more discounts 

The Anker Soundcore Space One are excellent value for what they offer. Better than the always tempting Sony WH-CH520 thanks to offering ANC, and far better than the ageing JBL Tune 750BTNC, there's not much out there at this price that could currently beat the Anker Soundcore Space One. 

To do so, you'd need to spend a lot more money to compete and that's hardly the point here, is it? 

The Anker Soundcore Space One's temperamental wear detection is an irritant but we're hopeful that future updates rectify it. You never know, that could be in time for a price cut too given Soundcore gear is often in sales.

  • Value score: 5/5

Should I buy the Anker Soundcore Space One?

Buy them if...

Don't buy them if...

Anker Soundcore Space One review: Also consider

How I tested the Anker Soundcore Space One

Anker Soundcore Space One

(Image credit: Future)
  • Tested for two weeks
  • Compared against Beats Studio Pro, JBL 670NC, Sony WH-1000XM4
  • Listened to Apple Music and Spotify on an iPhone 14 Pro,and a MacBook Pro

I tested the Anker Soundcore Space One against the Beats Studio Pro, JBL 670NC, Sony WH-1000XM4. I used them in the home office, in my living room while others were busy doing things, and walking around my local area during busy and quiet times. 

I used the Anker Soundcore Space One just how I would use my regular pair of headphones – for everything! That meant using them on my morning walk alongside busy and noisy traffic, as well as quieter walks in more rural areas where I got to test transparency mode (and ANC) against sociable dog walkers saying hello. 

Besides those active times, I also used the Anker Soundcore Space One as my main headset when taking work calls, watching Twitch streams, YouTube videos, and even some cheeky lunchtime gaming on my MacBook Pro. 

When listening to music, I focused on different genres including classical, jazz, the latest hits, and my favorite 90s playlist. This was across both Apple Music and Spotify. I also listened to podcasts on Spotify. 

I've been testing and reviewing audio products for over 10 years now. If I placed all the headphones and earphones I've reviewed in one room, there wouldn't be much space for me. I'm a big fan of music and always having something to keep my ears distracted from environmental sounds like my neighbour's never-ending DIY projects. 

Read more about how we test

  • First reviewed: August 2023