JBL E65BTNC, headphones with quality sound and noise cancellation

The American sound specialist JBL from the Harman Kardon group brought several novelties to the IFA in Berlin but these headphones stand out. It is a full-size model, wireless (Bluetooth 4.1) and with a noise cancellation system. Hence its name, JBL E65BTNC (BT and NC for Bluetooth and Noise Cancellation). They will be on sale in October for an interesting price of 200 euros . Available in black, white, and blue colors.

24 hours

At JBL they have managed to take advantage of a relatively large headset, being a full-size headband. It weighs just over 250 grams, but the first good news is that it incorporates a remarkable battery. It is lithium ion, 3.7 V and a capacity of 610 mAh . With it, it reaches up to 24 hours of playback via Bluetooth. Playback or telephone conversation via mobile (which would not last that long).

If we activate the noise cancellation system, we will go down to about 15 hours, which is a good figure anyway. Furthermore, this battery can be fully charged in just two hours. If we decided to use a cable to improve the received sound quality, and we activated noise cancellation, then the battery would last 30 hours .

JBL sound

These headphones have passed through JBL Sound Labs and received the “ JBL Signature Sound ”. In other words, the brand guarantees a bell like that of the thousands of cinemas, studios or sound equipment that JBL has installed. The cups hide large 40mm diameter drivers capable of delivering excellent bass. But also higher up the sound spectrum these lightweight drivers keep their sharpness.

The soft fabric headband and ear cushions ensure good comfort for long listens . Being closed, even without the cancellation system activated, they achieve a certain isolation. And using a cable, they reach the highest quality being comparable to mid and high range headphones. But with the added bonus of being able to use them wirelessly and with the system activated.

Bluetooth and cancellation

The Bluetooth wireless system always introduces some compression to the sound. These JBLs do not support the aptX system that minimizes it, but they are compatible with the rest of the protocols. The modulation can be GFSK, 4DQPSK, 8DPSK, and the profile HFP v1.6, HSP v1.2, A2DP v1.2, or AVRCP v1.4. A good point is that it allows two devices to be paired , for example the mobile and the computer or a player. We can be listening to a video on the computer, and if a call arrives, go to the mobile and use it hands-free. The change from one to the other will be instantaneous.

They have microphones, both for the cancellation system and to be able to talk on the phone. Remember that these cancellation systems work by detecting ambient noises . Once received, the electronics generate identical noises but with the phase reversed. Upon reaching the ear, some cancel the other and eliminate that noise. Works best with constant background noises (airplane, train, hum).

JBL E65BTNC