There are thousands of words to describe poor sound quality… NONE of them will feature in this review.

The JBL Flip 7 is here! It’s portable, it’s loud and in the coolest way possible… It’s cool!

As someone who predominantly uses a speaker for travel, a random get together or a sing in the shower, I’m not in the market for an absolute TANK of a speaker. The JBL Flip 7 was exactly what I needed.

It’s incredible! I feel like I’ve held V cans bigger than the Flip 7. It really is easy to throw in your bag for a road trip or a trip to the beach. Plus, with up to 16 hours of playtime, a good charge often lasts the getaway.

When you’re on the go, the best kind of speaker is one you don’t have to worry about. The Flip 7 has a fantastic battery life. It’s also waterproof, dustproof and drop proof! (Up to 1m). But honestly, one meter’s all you need. If I’m passing it to a mate, tossing it to my beach towel or it gets bumped off the table during game night, I know the beats will keep on blasting. (Plus, if you’re dropping your speaker from any higher, that’s on you.)

JBL does have an app for their speakers that allows for updates and audio customization, but as someone who understands ‘the sound’ more than the specs, I’m stoked with the out of the box experience. Fantastic balance, a surprising amount of bass and it can play LOUD. You can also pair it with your other speakers using Aura cast, you know, in case you ever need even more UMPH!

At this point, I don’t know if it’s industry standard or JBL standard, but it’s always nice when you can get music playing without a glance at the manual. I charged it, pressed the on button, held the Bluetooth button and paired it. That’s the way it should be.

The only negatives I have with the Flip 7 are very minor. For example, the speaker does not come with its own charger (USB-C). I understand it is a very common cord to own nowadays, but it’s always nice to have one per device. The horizontal foot of the Flip 7 is also more of a kickstand, so when it’s on its side, it does have a tendency to roll when knocked.

But realistically, I’m getting a bit pickier than the average adventurer. The interchangeable carabiner and loop feature put all those concerns to the back of my mind. That feature is innovative, fun and gives the speaker some personality. That’s something modern devices need more of, creativity to keep things from getting stale.

Overall, the speaker gets a 4.6 out of 5 from me. It’s not perfect but it’s certainly earned its spot as my day to day speaker. So how can I give it any less!

The post JBL Flip 7 Review appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

JBL’s next generation Flip 7 and Charge 6 portable bluetooth speakers have launched, with a bold new look and new audio features to deliver bigger sound, deeper bass and better performance.

Built to improve on the listener experience, both speakers feature JBL’s proprietary AI Sound Boost technology to analyse music in real-time and optimise the speaker driver without distortion.

“The Flip and Charge series have always been popular in New Zealand, thanks to their ability to pump out big sound from a compact, ultra-portable and robust speaker design. In this latest iteration, we’ve packed in even more audio technology to give listeners a best-in-class sound experience. There are also some new design and connectivity features, such as Auracast, and new options for straps and carabiners, to make it easier to share and take your tunes with you on the go,” says Michael Sherman, Senior Strategy Manager at JBL New Zealand.

Whether you’re chilling in the garden or meeting up with friends at the park, the new Flip 7 has been redesigned with an interchangeable finger loop and carabiner hook making it easier to take your music anywhere. Equipped with AI Sound Boost for powerful bass without distortion and an upgraded tweeter with a dome design, Flip 7 offers clear and crisp sounds at higher volumes, no matter the setting.

Out and about? The new IP68 waterproof and dustproof rating makes it easier to carry your tunes with you, without worrying about spills or drops. Other new features include increased battery life for up to 16 hours with Playtime Boost, the latest Bluetooth 5.4 capabilities for improved wireless connectivity, and Auracast pairing with other JBL Auracast enabled speakers.

The Charge 6, now equipped with a detachable and versatile handle strap, has evolved to make high-quality audio more accessible than ever. With the introduction of AI Sound Boost and an upgraded woofer for deeper bass, prepare to feel the beat across any room. The introduction of Auracast allows friends to sync their compatible speakers for even more sound. Keep the party going for longer with up to 28 hours of battery when using Playtime Boost. Remaining true to the name, the speaker not only electrifies the dancefloor, but comes equipped with the built-in USB-C powerbank for charging devices at a moment’s notice.

The new JBL Flip 7 and JBL Charge 6 are available now in black, blue and red.

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JBL has launched the JBL Tour PRO 3, the brand’s most advanced True Wireless Stereo (TWS) earbuds yet.

With the introduction of dual drivers, JBL Spatial 360 with Head Tracking, True Adaptive Noise Cancellation 2.0, and an improved Smart Charging CaseTM packing truly unique features, JBL Tour PRO 3 redefines the TWS listening and user experience and leads the way in TWS Smart technology

“The JBL Tour PRO 3 sets new standards in customisation, performance, and convenience. New Zealanders will be particularly excited by the new generation Smart Charging Case. The new audio transmitter technology unlocks so many potential scenarios for improving the listening experience, from air travel to group listening sessions,” says Michael Sherman, Senior Strategy Manager at JBL New Zealand.

At the forefront of the JBL Tour PRO 3’s innovations is the second-generation Smart Charging Case. The case not only provides full control of the earbud features, but also acts as a wireless audio transmitter, enabling ‘Everywhere Entertainment’ from any USB or analogue source such as an inflight entertainment system. Simply plug in the charging case for an instant and automatic connection to your earbuds.

Better yet, the direct connection between case and earbuds is more stable, and lower latency, than Bluetooth, making it the perfect companion for gaming, calls*, movies and music.

JBL Tour PRO 3 is JBL’s first TWS model with full Auracast functionality. Easily share audio content with any Auracast-enabled device using the AuracastTM button on the Smart Charging Case display. Or join an existing broadcast by simply tapping in with the case and accompanying app so you can listen to the same content as your friends and family.

The redesigned Smart Charging Case now features a 30% larger screen than its predecessor, all wrapped in a smaller, more pocketable package. The screen provides seamless control over music playback, call management, access to ID3 Tag, caller ID and media file information, and more without needing to access your phone.

The JBL Tour PRO 3 brings JBL Spatial 360 and Head Tracking technology from any audio source. This feature transforms stereo sound into a fully immersive experience – particularly beneficial when watching movies or playing games. Head Tracking deepens the immersive experience by making sounds appear to come from outside your head and stay fixed in space, even when you move your head.

No matter what you are listening to, enjoy it in excellent quality. JBL Tour PRO 3 boasts a hybrid dual driver system in each earbud, a first for JBL TWS, delivering JBL’s legendary Pro Sound. The balanced armature driver handles the high notes with enhanced clarity, freeing the 11mm dynamic driver to provide powerful, cleaner bass and vivid vocals. With a dedicated DAC for each driver reproducing a specific part of the frequency range from 20Hz to 40kHz, enjoy every detail in stunning definition, closer than ever to studio sound reproduction.

Further enhancing audio quality, the Hi-Res certified wireless audio codec LDAC, delivers three times more data than the standard Bluetooth codecs, resulting in exceptional high-resolution sound.

Most features of the JBL Tour PRO 3 are fully customisable, including the True Adaptive Noise Cancellation 2.0 technology. This advanced system measures over 50,000 times per second, adapting to environmental changes and compensating for sound leakage.

For the best comfort and performance, JBL Tour PRO 3 ships with an extensive selection of ear tip options. Find your perfect fit with five different sized silicon and one additional set of foam ear tips.

With six microphones and a hydrodynamic windproof design, the Tour PRO 3 ensures clear and undistorted voice transmission during calls. The earbuds use a new, proprietary, JBL Crystal AI call algorithm to enhance clarity even in noisy environments. Your voice will now not only be clear in places with low frequency stationary noises such as traffic or at a train station, but also in situations with more sudden high frequency noises such as coffee shops.

Further enhance your calling experience with the new smart call equalizer, Voice Call. This features a sound level optimiser which helps reduce the volume of loud talkers or amplify quiet talkers.

For a fully personalised sound, the Personi-fi 3.0 hearing test offers a customised sound profile. This JBL algorithm accurately measures and adjusts for individual hearing profiles using 12 bands for EQ compensation and 14 warble tones. The adjustments are now made separately for each ear, providing the most personalised listening experience to date.

Additionally, Tour PRO 3 allows users to personalise the display lock screen and wallpaper with any photo and supports display commands in 13 languages.

JBL Tour PRO 3 will be available in Black and Latte colourway.

The post JBL Launches the Tour Pro 3 True Wireless appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

Samsung’s pioneering Bluetooth ear buds have certainly evolved from their first consumer released Icon X.

We have had the small round shaped buds, through to the weird ‘Beans’ and now Samsung have gone more mainstream with their new Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro.

Retaining true wireless mixed with HD quality audio Samsung took a more conventional design and added even more features for your wellbeing.

First up to connect the Galaxy Buds3 Pro you’ll need the Galaxy Wear app. This is available on both Android and iOS, and you do not need a Samsung phone to get the most out of these buds.

Once synced up you can expect to have some crystal clear audio pumping in to your ears, with noise cancelation and Voice Aware.

Handsfree is brilliant as the Buds3 Pro successfully block out any environmental noise.

Voice Aware is exactly its namesake, rock out while holding a convo in person. The Buds3 Pro will prioritise voice over music or media.

The Galaxy Buds3 Pro come with lights on both stems of either buds, called ‘Blade Lighting’. This is an indicator light for Voice Aware, charging and more. It’s not a light effect that stays on.

Samsung has added siren awareness even if you have the Active Noise Cancelation on, when out and about with your tunes dialed up to max volume, you’re not going to get knocked down by a speeding emergency vehicle. This is also a feature to be used in office too. If you’re using the Buds3 Pro at work and the fire alarm goes off, you’re sure going to hear it.

Touch control on the Galaxy Buds3 Pro is similar but different to what we have seen in prior models.

Swipe up or down the stem to control volume. Pinch to pause or play, or answer a call.

Each bud has a 24 bit codec for Ultra High Definition and a new 2-way speaker system that separates differing notes or instruments if listening to music.

The Buds3 Pro actually do split audio up extremely well. There’s a definite separation from higher notes through to the rumbling of the bass when streaming music.

Mobile gaming and movie watching was on par with having audio through a multi-channel soundbar set up.

The Galaxy Buds3 Pro have got it when it comes to superior personal audio.

If you are using these on a Samsung Galaxy smartphone, you’ll get the additional ‘feature’ of 360 surround which utilises head-tracking. But I say ‘feature’ loosely.

It only works if your phone is unlocked and at times the head-tracked audio gets stuck in one position. Something that since Samsung introduced a few years back, has never quite got right (or allowed it on other Android devices).

The Galaxy Buds3 Pro take Galaxy AI to another level as they will tweak the audio according to your fit, environment and media you are listening to.

The Buds3 Pro are also super comfortable for long periods of use.

Battery wise, you can expect to get around 6 hours if you’re using ANC (Active Noise Cancelation) or with ANC off you’ll get an extra 1 hour. My advice, go hard at full volume with ANC on, it doesn’t make a lot of difference in battery life.

The Galaxy Buds3 Pro are wireless chargeable and the sleek but retro-looking case will give around four full charges.

The Galaxy Buds3 Pro are a change from what we are used to from Samsung, but it is a change for the better. For most it will be an easier fit and wear, they are more intuitive and smart, but best of all is the audio experience you’re in for with a set of these.

The post Samsung Galaxy Buds3 Pro Review appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

JBL is at the top when it comes to audio production.

From large sound stages, recording booths, to your home and on-the-go, only JBL sound the way they do.

They also bring us busy outdoors (and indoors) people functions that we never knew we needed, such as a Smart Charging Case for their earbuds.

As we saw with last years Tour Pro 2 TWS, JBL have now released the Live Flex 3.

The Smart Case comes with the same functionality as the Tour Pro 2, where you can tweak your audio settings, control music and volume as well as customize the lock screen.

You can also set up your smart phone’s notifications to come up on the case screen. This is a bit hit and miss though.

The buds themselves are super comfy for long wearing periods and put out an astounding tub-thumping mix of highs and lows, with a rumble for that bassline.

However, they are prone to slipping out of your ear due to having no silicone tips.

Side touch functionality is still there, to take a call or control your music or media, and the Live Flex 3 are also a bit prone to the occasional Bluetooth drops as their Tour Pro 2 also suffers from.

But the JBL Live Flex 3 will see you right for that long commute, flight and literally all-day.

A whopping 50 hour battery life from full charge (or around 10 hours on a 15 – 20 minute charge up) means you are not going to have to charge these up every few hours.

I’ve had this review pair for a bit over one week and they are still going strong after one full charge when I first received them.

The JBL Live Flex 3 are the buds to have in your bag or pocket, and take with you, for reliability.

If you’re a fitness fanatic or someone that moves around a lot, they may not be the best due to their ability to fall out.

At home, work or that long haul flight, you can’t go wrong. You can put your phone away and pump up the jam on your fav playlists from the Smart Case.

The post JBL Live Flex 3 Ear Buds Review appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

Xbox (or PC) gamers can chat and game and have the audio advantage over and above their battlefield foes with JBL’s Quantum 360X.

A full sized, over-head headphone, the Quantum 360X is designed for Xbox Series X|S or PC (actually any Bluetooth enabled device), connecting up wirelessly or for a more stable connection, USB. You can also have a more stable wireless connection using the dongle.

Bluetooth connection for me was good, but I did experience a few drops. Pairing to the dongle was tight, and of course via USB, no issues at all.

Built with memory foam ear-cups for comfortable non-sweaty marathons, the 40mm driver speakers produce supreme audio with that JBL signature sound.

It is fair to say that for some the JBL Quantum 360X may be a bit bass centric for some users, during heated action moments, you do literally feel those explosions as your ears vibrate.

For me though, that was fantastic.

This said the JBL Quantum 360X has voice focus. No matter how crazy things are getting in-game, how loud those explosions are or the whoops of exhilaration from team mates as you complete a successful raid, you’ll always be heard and hear others.

The Quantum 360X will game with you for as long as you can. With an up-to 22 hours battery life when using Bluetooth or via the dongle

Using the JBL Quantum as headphones only was a pleasing experience. When I put down my game controller and cranked up the tunes, bending the mic away from my face it was on par with almost all JBL audio headphones.

Given the lower price point, the JBL Quantum 360X surpassed my expectations.

These are headphones built to game, and as it turns out, no matter the platform if you use Bluetooth.

JBL Quantum 360X is a worthy weapon in your video gaming arsenal, whether you’re gaming on the go or at home.

The post JBL Quantum 360X Wireless Gaming Headset Review appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

The party is at yours as you bring the playlist, the lights and the boom with JBL’s Partybox 120 portable speaker.

Pairing up with your smartdecvice via Bluetooth and syncing with the ‘JBL Partybox’ app not only do you transform in to the party master, but also the DJ.

The JBL Partybox 120 is a full sized speaker that you can use at home or out of the house with it’s swappable battery and around 12 hours lifespan.

You can use the Partybox 120 plugged in to the mains outlet, this will also charge the battery too, of course. If you’re caught short a 10 minute charge up will give you about a couple of hours of party time.

Also water resistant, or splash proof – if it rains on your party or that embarrassing Uncle who drinks too much spills his beverage on the speaker, you should be right.

You will need the app if you want to customise not only the EQ for audio, but also the trancy lighting.

From strobing to strip lights to flashing and trailing, optimise, select and change colours as you wish. You’re in full control.

On the top of the JBL Partybox 120 is a series of buttons and knobs. Volume (you can control all of these wirelessly of course), Bluetooth, play controls and three magic buttons that add soundeffects in to your music.

These sound effects can also be modified via the app.

There’s ports too. Wow your friends and family with your musical or vocal talents by plugging in a guitar or mic.

The audio is bassy. Even at a low volume it will rattle the windows of your neighbourhood.

Use the JBL Partybox 120 in a room I doubt you’ll get anywhere near mid volume range. Outside the entire neighbourhood will hear the greatest hits of your playlists.

The JBL Partybox 120 can be parired up to another JBL portable speaker, or you can set it up for Auracast.

Being slated as a portable speaker, which it is, it’s heavy. It’s not going to be your everyday grab-and-go but it is definitely a speaker that you will take to the beach, a mates house or any gathering where there’s to be music. And HQ sounding music too.

JBL most definitely has a signature sound for it’s speakers, and it’s something that only JBL seems to have got right in the portable speaker market.

For your next event there’s no need to hire a DJ, get yourself a JBL Partybox 120 for an instant party zone.

The post JBL Partybox 120 Review appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

It’s small but got boom.

The JBL Go 4 is just slightly larger than a credit card, easily pocketable and ready to rock out when you are.

Waterproof and rugged, the Go 4 has onboard play and volume controls with a single USB-C charging port.

Pair it up via Bluetooth  to your smartphone or tablet to take on the go. To get the most out of your JBL Go 4 you’ll need to download the JBL Portable app.

With this you can tweak the audio settings either via preset EQ options, or customise to your liking.

With around 7 hours of battery life, the JBL Go 4 will keep up with you all night, or all day.

If you’re caught short – on the app is a Boost. This will optimise the audio to extend the remaining battery life by up to 2 hours.

Using the JBL Go 4 in and out of the house I was able to squeeze around 6 hours out of the tiny speaker before it got down to 15%. Trying the battery life boost did exactly what it claims, ad more than once I was able to get another 1 to 2 hours before it finally died.

Price wise, these punchy, bassy super loud portable speakers come well under $100. So, I would recommend having a couple of them, so you can pair them up for stereo sound – or use Aura Cast.

Infact the audio that’s produced from a speaker that can literally fit in your pocket is fully beyond what it should be able to produce. It can fill an entire room with sound and then some.

Small but mighty the JBL Go 4 is definitely the most portable high quality bluetooth speaker I’ve come across. If the quality of sound is important to you while out and about, the JBL Go 4 is going to impress.

The post JBL Go 4 Portable Bluetooth Speaker appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

JBL is unveiling exciting changes to its popular portable audio lineup with the launch of the JBL Xtreme 4, JBL Clip 5 and JBL Go 4.

For the first time, Kiwi music fans can experience Auracast with JBL portables, unlocking unlimited connectivity options for stereo or multi-speaker pairing across different speakers.

Auracast is a new way to broadcast audio, which allows any audio transmitter, such as your smartphones, laptops, and televisions, to connect to an unlimited amount of receivers, such as earbuds, speakers, and more.

“We’re very excited to be one of the first brands to bring Auracast enabled portable speakers to market here in New Zealand. This technology will be a step change in the way we experience and share audio content. Incorporating this innovation into JBL speakers gives end users more flexibility and options to enjoy their music and audio, especially as Auracast enabled devices become more widespread,” says Michael Sherman, Senior Strategy Manager at JBL New Zealand.

JBL Xtreme 4

Take sound to the next level anywhere and anytime with the JBL Xtreme 4. The latest of the popular Xtreme series is enhanced with AI Sound Boost which analyses audio in real time with an AI algorithm to optimise the acoustic output level, leading to more powerful and less distorted sound.

Two woofers, two powerful drivers and dual-pumping JBL Bass Radiators effortlessly deliver dynamic, immersive sound with deeper bass and plenty of detail. You’ll get lost in the music wherever you are.

As per previous generations, the JBL Xtreme 4 has a large battery capacity providing up to 24 hours of playtime and a power bank to charge your phone on the go. The battery is replaceable, to extend the lifespan of the speaker. The Xtreme 4, and the other two newly launched speakers, will all feature Bluetooth v5.3 with LE audio capabilities, IP67 waterproof and dustproof rating and multi-speaker connection via Auracast.

JBL Clip 5

It’s now easier than ever to take you music on the road. The JBL Clip 5 features a redesigned carabiner with a bigger and more accessible opening, making it easier to clip on.

The stylish travel accessory continues to bring the sound with an increase in driver power that allows for more streamlined sound and consistent bass at every volume. With up to 12 hours of playtime, the JBL Clip 5 is the perfect adventure companion.

JBL Go 4

With a more robust sound and punchier bass than its predecessor, JBL’s smallest portable, the JBL Go 4, continues to surprise with its sound capabilities.

Made to bring anywhere, the new mini speaker has an updated silhouette and wider and more durable strap, making it more hand-friendly. Boasting up to 7 hours of playtime and available in six colourways, the JBL Go 4 has everything needed to grab and go.

JBL Xtreme 4 and JBL Clip 5 now incorporate post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials for 70% of their plastic, and 80% PCR materials are used for the plastic in the JBL Go 4. All speakers use 100% PCR fabric for the speaker grille.

“JBL has been working towards producing more sustainable product designs and packaging and by using recycled materials in our portable speakers we’re able to reduce our environmental footprint,” says Sherman.

“We have always been proud of our portable audio lineup at JBL and by increasingly doing our part to reuse materials that would otherwise go to waste, we’re able to help our end users make more sustainable purchasing choices without compromising on style or sound.”

All portable speakers are available now.

The post JBL launches Auracast portable speakers appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

JBL is launching the latest evolution of its popular PartyBox series in New Zealand – the JBL PartyBox Club 120, JBL PartyBox Stage 320, and JBL PartyBox Wireless Mic.

Building on the thrilling sound and immersive lighting effects the PartyBox range is famous for, the new launches offer extended playtime powered by a replaceable battery and upgraded Bluetooth capabilities, so end users can experience JBL’s signature sound in even more versatile ways.

“No matter what the occasion, music is the quintessential element when creating a celebratory atmosphere. JBL’s newest PartyBox speakers bring the party to life with superior sound and a futuristic light show,” says Michael Sherman, Senior Strategy Manager for JBL New Zealand.

“Plus, with a range of portable features you can bring the party outside, take it on-the-go, or plug and play with our new wireless mic.”

Featuring JBL Original Pro Sound, the JBL PartyBox Club 120 delivers powerful audio and deeper bass, along with a dynamic light show of starry lights, cool light trails, and strobe effects all synced with your music.

With up to 12 hours of playtime, and double the party time with an easy-to-swap replaceable battery*, the PartyBox Club 120 joins the lineup with two mic inputs and one guitar input and is compatible with the JBL PartyBox App.

Bring the party anywhere, anytime with the JBL PartyBox Stage 320, featuring JBL Original Pro Sound. With two high-sensitivity woofers and dual tweeters, users can listen to all the details of their favourite tracks, even at the loudest volumes.

The telescopic handle and wide sturdy wheels ensure the PartyBox Stage 320 can be easily transported to transform any space into the ultimate party, with a bigger, multi-dimensional light show.

Featuring up to 18 hours of playtime which can be doubled with an easy-to-swap-out replaceable battery*, and FastCharge, a 10-minute charge boost that delivers 2 hours of playtime, users won’t have to worry about the party stopping mid-song.

Both models feature HARMAN’s industry leading AI Sound Boost technology which analyses audio in real time with an AI algorithm to optimise the acoustic output level, leading to more powerful and less distorted sound.

The new PartyBox speakers can also connect with other JBL Auracast-enabled PartyBox and portable speakers by Auracast.

JBL PartyBox Wireless Mic, the must-have accessory, is easy-to-use and compatible with all JBL PartyBox speakers. Featuring clear voice and crisp sound, the digital JBL PartyBox Wireless Mic comes in a plug-and-play two-mic pack guaranteed to deliver the best performance with JBL PartyBox Cardioid pattern pickup main sound.

Minimise all unwanted noise with JBL’s shock mount system that reduces handling and breathing noise. Easy-to-use with a plug-and-play set up, the new mic comes with up to 20 hours of playtime and a rechargeable battery that can be charged while using.

JBL PartyBox Club 120 JBL PartyBox Stage 320, and the JBL PartyBox Wireless Mic are available now.

The post JBL unveils the next generation PartyBox’s appeared first on Shane the Gamer.