JBL TUNE 500 – Wired Headphones

JBL Tune 500 – Budget-Friendly Headphones with Surprising Performance

In today’s world, finding a pair of headphones that offer good sound quality without breaking the bank can be a challenge. However, the JBL Tune 500 aims to change that narrative. Priced at just $29.99, these budget headphones promise to deliver a decent audio experience without compromising on usability. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the JBL Tune 500 and see if it lives up to its promises.

Design and Comfort

The JBL Tune 500 features a lightweight and foldable design, making it easy to carry around. The headphones are primarily made of plastic, with some padding in the headband and ear cups. While the build quality may not be the most durable, it is reasonable considering the price point. The on-ear design may not be the most comfortable for extended use, but it is convenient for quick on and off situations.

JBL Tune 500 Sound Quality

When it comes to sound quality, the JBL Tune 500 performs surprisingly well for its price. While it deviates from the ideal frequency response curve, lacking sub-bass and having some spikes and dips in the high end, it still manages to deliver a decent listening experience. The bass and midrange are generally present, and there are no excessively sharp peaks that can be unpleasant. For casual listening, the JBL Tune 500 gets the job done without any major issues.

Microphone and Connectivity

The JBL Tune 500 features an inline microphone, which is serviceable for voice calls. It has a slow rolloff in the frequency response, capturing most of the voice spectrum but being slightly bass-heavy. The microphone tends to distort at high input levels, but considering the price tag, it performs reasonably well. The headphones use a 3.5mm headphone connector, making them compatible with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, laptops, and gaming consoles.

Noise Isolation

One area where the JBL Tune 500 falls short is noise isolation. Due to its on-ear design, it doesn’t fully surround your ears, which means it doesn’t block out outside noise as effectively as over-ear headphones. While it can block out quiet conversations, louder noises may interfere with your listening experience. If you’re looking for headphones to use in noisy environments, there are better options available.