Skip to content
Tech News
← Back to articles

I swapped my Sony WH-1000XM6 for lower-end JBL headphones, and they still sounded great

read original get JBL Tune 510BT Wireless → more articles
Why This Matters

While JBL's Live 780NC headphones may not match the premium offerings of industry giants like Sony or Apple, they provide a compelling midrange option with rich features and enjoyable sound quality at a more accessible price point. This highlights the importance of diverse choices in the headphone market, catering to consumers seeking value without sacrificing key functionalities.

Key Takeaways

JBL Live 780NC 3.5 / 5 Good pros and cons Pros Feature-rich

Comfortable to wear

Auracast and LC3 availability on iOS Cons ANC performance can be better

Shallow earcups View now at Best Buy

Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google.

Flagship offerings from Apple, Sony, Bose, and other premium consumer audio giants often dominate the conversation about headphones.

JBL tries its hand at winning some of this market share with its premium Tour One M-series headphones, but simply can't compete with the prowess of its competitors' use of higher-quality build materials, more advanced noise cancellation technology, and smoother app user interfaces.

Also: I listened to Sony, Bose, and Apple's flagship headphones - and this pair's ahead of the pack

However, JBL's strength is where its competitors aren't as successful: midrange headphones. JBL has refreshed its Live-series headphones with the , delivering its conventional suite of "I can't believe these are in a pair of midrange headphones" features in a redesigned frame with slimmer yokes, less branding, and an overall look most users can get behind.

If premium headphones aren't in your budget or interests, JBL's $250 midrange option might be the right choice for you. Here's why.

... continue reading