JBL Tune 770NC Review

When it comes to finding the perfect pair of headphones, comfort, sound quality, and noise-canceling abilities are at the top of everyone’s list. The JBL Tune 770NC promises all of that, along with the brand’s signature bass-heavy sound and sleek design. But does it really deliver? I spent some time with these headphones to see how they hold up in real-world use. From long listening sessions to everyday commutes, this review will break down the performance, features, and value of this model, giving you an honest take on whether they’re worth your investment.

Design & Aesthetics

The Jbl tune 770nc adaptive noise cancelling wireless over-ear headphones showcase a modern and sleek design that appeals to a wide audience like the Skullcandy Crusher Evo. They are crafted entirely from plastic, which keeps them lightweight and comfortable for prolonged wear. The matte finish gives the headphones a sophisticated look, while the glossy JBL logo on each ear cup adds a touch of elegance.

The headphones feature an over-ear design, which not only enhances comfort but also helps with noise isolation. The ear pads are generously padded, providing a snug fit that conforms to the shape of the ears. This design choice ensures that users can enjoy their music without distractions from the outside world.

The foldable design of this wireless headphone catches the users’ eyes. This functionality makes it easy to store and transport the headphones, perfect for those who are always on the go. When folded, they occupy minimal space in bags or backpacks.

In terms of color options, the JBL Tune headphones is available in four attractive shades: Black, Blue, Purple, and White. Each color has its unique charm, allowing users to choose based on their personal style. The Purple variant, for instance, is a pale lavender that stands out without being overly flashy, appealing to those who want something a bit different.

The design and aesthetics of the JBL Tune 770NC reflect a balance of style and functionality. They are visually appealing while also being practical for everyday use, making them a great choice for anyone looking for headphones that look as good as they sound.

Materials and Build Quality

The build quality of the JBL Tune 770NC headphones is decent, reflecting their mid-range pricing. The housings are made entirely from matte plastic, giving them a solid feel without conveying a sense of premium craftsmanship. While they don’t feel cheap, they also don’t exude luxury.

The ear pads, although not removable, are soft and dense. This padding contributes to comfort during extended listening sessions. The ear cups are designed to move along a vertical plane, offering a good range of motion. This adjustability helps ensure a better fit for various head shapes.

The headband is somewhat narrow but features a flexible design that adapts well to the user’s head. It feels securely attached and has a robust structure, although it does have a somewhat hollow sound when tapped. The headband slider clicks into place when resized, which adds to the sense of security.

However, there are some downsides. The hinges of the headband appear a bit flimsy and may feel loose. This could be a concern over time, especially with heavy or prolonged use, as they might be prone to breaking. Additionally, the headphones lack a protective case, making them susceptible to damage from drops or when stored in overstuffed backpacks.

Like many over-ear headphones, the JBL tune 770nc over-ear headphones doesn't feature any water or dust resistance. This absence means that care is necessary to keep them in good condition, especially in environments where moisture or debris might be present. Overall, while the build quality is adequate for everyday use, it may not withstand rough handling or extreme conditions.

Comfort and Fit

The JBL 770NC headphones offer a satisfactory level of comfort, making them suitable for extended listening sessions. Weighing only 0.5 lbs, they are lightweight, which helps reduce fatigue during long periods of use. The adjustable fit allows users to customize the size, contributing to a more personalized experience.

The headphones feature decent padding, particularly in the center of the headband, which is the part that rests against your head. However, it’s worth noting that the entire headband isn’t padded, which may impact comfort over prolonged use unlike the Jabra Elite 45h headphones. The faux leather-covered ear pads are soft and dense, providing a cozy feel against the ears. Unfortunately, these ear pads are not replaceable, which could be a downside for some users.

One aspect to consider is the inner diameter of the ear pads. They don’t offer much space, which can be challenging for users with average to larger-sized ears. This lack of space can make it difficult to achieve a proper over-ear seal, potentially impacting sound quality and comfort.

Another important factor is the clamping force. The JBL Tune 770NC has a clamping force of about 1 lb, which can provide a secure fit. However, this pressure may lead to premature fatigue, especially for those who wear glasses. Users with smaller to average-sized heads may find a better fit, while those with larger heads or thick hair may struggle to achieve a comfortable experience.

While the Tune 770NC headphones by Jbl is generally comfortable and lightweight, they may not be the best fit for everyone. Those with larger ears or heads might find the design less accommodating. Adjustability helps, but finding the perfect fit may require some experimentation. For casual listeners, they offer adequate comfort, but for longer sessions, it’s essential to be mindful of the potential for discomfort.

Sound Quality

The JBL Tune 770NC headphones offer a sound profile that aligns with the Harman curve, known for its distinct tuning. This means you can expect a bass-heavy sound, a somewhat recessed midrange, and an elevated treble. This tuning is typical for many headphones in this price range and is designed to enhance the listening experience.

Using JBL's “Pure Bass Sound” technology, the Tune 770NC delivers a robust bass performance. For example, while listening to “Not Like Us” by Kendrick Lamar, the bass notes were deep and impactful, making for an enjoyable listening experience. Even though the headphones may not offer the same level of detail as higher-end models, the bass remains clear and well-defined, avoiding muddiness. The transition from the bass to the mid-bass is smooth, ensuring a seamless auditory experience.

However, the midrange tuning presents some challenges. In tracks like Travis Scott's “Days Before Rodeo,” vocals appeared slightly buried in the mix. This doesn’t mean the vocals are entirely lost; rather, they lack the presence and detail that can be found in other frequency ranges. The V-shaped sound signature means that while the bass and treble are emphasized, the mids don’t stand out as much, which can be a drawback for vocal-centric music.

On a positive note, the treble performance of the Tune 770NC is impressive. The headphones do a great job of resolving detail in the higher frequencies. For instance, the hi-hat in Hanumankind's “Big Dawgs” was crisp and clear, showcasing the headphone's ability to handle intricate sounds. Overall, the treble is refined and adds brightness to the music, enhancing the listening experience.

The sound quality of the JBL Tune 770NC strikes a balance between fun and clarity. The bass is lively and engaging, while the treble offers a nice level of detail. However, those who prioritize vocal clarity might find the midrange somewhat lacking. For casual listening and various music genres, these headphones deliver a satisfying audio experience.

Isolation

I found the JBL Tune 770NC’s noise isolation to be decent, but not the best available. The adaptive noise cancelling feature did a fair job of reducing mid-range sounds, like chatter and background noise. However, I noticed it doesn’t stand out compared to other models. When it came to lower-pitched sounds—like the hum of an airplane or the rumble of traffic—the noise cancelling didn’t perform well.

The dense foam ear pads provided some isolation for higher-pitched sounds, such as clinking cups. However, if your ears are larger than the ear pads can handle, the over-ear seal might not be effective. This can compromise overall noise isolation. During my testing, I compared different modes to see how they affected noise cancellation. It was interesting to look at the performance of features like On/Off, 'Ambient Aware,' and 'Talk Thru.'

One thing I found intriguing was the bass response. While wearing the headphones, I didn’t notice an increase in bass noise. The slight peak I observed in the bass range during testing seemed to be a result of how the headphones interacted with the testing equipment, rather than an issue with how they perform in real-world conditions.

In everyday situations, I found the adaptive noise cancelling underwhelming. For example, while sitting on an airplane, I could still hear the low hum of the cabin, and common street sounds were clearly audible. In office settings, the noise cancelling was a bit more effective, especially with mid-range sounds. However, I could still hear the tapping of keyboards and muffled conversations. It appeared that the adaptive noise cancelling primarily adjusted the headphones’ treble handling, which isn’t typically where active noise cancelling excels.

Another drawback I discovered is the lack of a wind reduction mode. This became noticeable when I was outside, as noise from the wind interacting with the microphones would sometimes interfere with the noise cancellation. The effectiveness of the noise cancelling varied based on how the wind hit the headphones. While they managed to reduce mid-range sounds quite well, I noticed some noise being introduced in other frequency ranges without that wind reduction feature. Comparing the noise cancelling mode when it was on versus off, along with 'Ambient Aware' and 'Talk Thru,' showed that the normal listening mode performed better in windy conditions, especially regarding bass and high-mids.

Leakage performance was another area I tested. Overall, the JBL Tune 770NC did well here. At normal listening volumes, the sound that leaked was somewhat muffled and not overly bright. I found that vocals and lead instruments were the clearest, although some bass did escape due to the small ear cups. Unless I was blasting my music in a quiet library, the overall loudness shouldn’t be bothersome to those nearby.

Battery Life

The JBL headphones excel in battery performance, making them a great choice for long listening sessions. With a rechargeable battery, these headphones boast an impressive continuous battery life of over 44 hours, even with noise cancelling enabled. This duration is slightly longer than what the manufacturer claims, offering users extended usage without frequent recharging. Some other models like Beats Solo3 and Beats Studio Pro provide 40 hours backup.

It’s important to note that actual battery life can vary based on factors such as output volume and listening modes. For instance, listening at higher volumes or using additional features may reduce the overall battery life. However, for most casual listeners, the battery performance remains outstanding.

The charging process is straightforward. The headphones are equipped with a USB-C charging port, conveniently located at the top of the right ear cup. This design hides the port under the yoke, which prevents charging while wearing them. A full charge takes just under two hours, which is relatively quick. For those in a hurry, a quick five-minute charge provides about three hours of playback, making it convenient for on-the-go use.

Another great feature is the option for passive playback. If the battery runs out, users can still listen to their music by connecting the headphones with a cable. This ensures that music enjoyment doesn’t have to stop, even if the battery does.

To further enhance battery longevity, the JBL Tune 770NC comes with an auto-off timer feature. Using the companion app, users can set the headphones to turn off automatically in 30-minute increments, up to a maximum of 90 minutes. This helps conserve battery life when the headphones are not in use.

Connectivity and Usability

The JBL Tune 770NC headphones offer versatile connectivity options that cater to a variety of listening preferences. They support both wired and wireless connections, making them adaptable for different situations.

Wired Connectivity

For wired use, the headphones come with a 4.10 ft (1.25 m) analog audio cable that connects via a 1/16" TRS port located on the right ear cup. This setup allows for passive listening, which means you can use the headphones without draining the battery. In passive mode, the latency is impressively low at 19.8 ms, making it ideal for video content as there are minimal lip-sync issues.

While the headphones include a USB-A to USB-C charging cable for power, it’s worth noting that this cable is not intended for audio use. Instead, it serves solely for charging the device. The somewhat short length of the analog audio cable might be a limitation for some users, but it’s standard for headphones in this category.

Wireless Connectivity

On the wireless front, the JBL Tune 770NC excels with its Bluetooth connectivity. They support multi-device pairing, allowing users to connect to two devices simultaneously. This feature is particularly useful for those who may want to switch between their phone and laptop without the hassle of disconnecting and reconnecting.

However, latency can be a concern with Bluetooth connections. When using the SBC codec, the latency can be somewhat high, which might be noticeable during video playback. JBL has included a 'Video Mode' designed to mitigate these sync issues, but results can vary depending on the device and application used. Additionally, there’s an 'Audio Mode' that provides a higher latency similar to the standard SBC connection, which isn’t a problem for audio-only content.

For those who wish to use the headphones with PCs, they offer full audio and microphone support via Bluetooth. This capability enhances usability for various applications, whether for gaming, video calls, or general listening.

Moreover, the headphones are compatible with LE Audio, an emerging Bluetooth standard that allows for improved audio streaming and performance. Users can select this option through their device's Bluetooth settings when pairing.

Mic Performance and Call Quality

The microphone performance of the JBL Tune 770NC headphones is generally decent, providing satisfactory clarity for voice recordings and calls. The system captures your voice with good intelligibility, ensuring that your words are heard clearly. However, there are some nuances to consider regarding sound quality.

While the microphone does a good job of picking up speech, the recording lacks weight and body. This means that your voice may come across as thin, particularly for individuals with deeper voices. Additionally, certain sounds, specifically "S" and "T" sounds, can be slightly exaggerated, which may affect the overall naturalness of the recording.

The microphone system features a noise gate that is always on, which helps in managing background sounds during calls. This setup allows the microphone to prioritize your voice over consistent background noise, but it doesn't entirely eliminate these distractions. In quieter environments, your voice may shine through more clearly, but if background noise is present, it can interfere with communication.

In terms of noise handling, the microphone system performs adequately. For consistent background noise, it does prioritize your speech, but some noise may still be audible to the person on the other end of the call. This means that while your voice remains somewhat clear, the overall sound can be muddled by ongoing ambient sounds.

When faced with sudden, loud noises, the microphone is capable of rejecting some of that noise, preventing it from being ear-piercing for the caller. However, this doesn’t completely eliminate the struggle for understanding, especially if there’s significant noise interference.

In summary, the mic performance and call quality of the JBL Tune 770NC are suitable for casual use. The microphone captures your voice clearly but may lack depth, leading to a somewhat thin sound profile. Noise handling is decent, allowing for prioritization of speech, but it struggles with louder and sudden background noises. Overall, these headphones are effective for basic calls and recordings, but they may not meet the expectations of users seeking high-end mic quality.

Durability and Portability

 The JBL noise cancelling headphones offer a mix of durability and portability, making them a practical choice for users who are often on the move. However, there are some important aspects to consider.

Durability

The build quality of the JBL Tune 770NC is decent, primarily constructed from matte plastic. While this material keeps the headphones lightweight, it doesn’t exude a premium feel. The headphones can withstand everyday use, but they may not hold up well to rough handling. The headband and ear cups are generally robust, but the hinges might feel somewhat flimsy. Over time, this could lead to potential issues, especially if the headphones are frequently folded and unfolded.

Additionally, the lack of a protective case is a downside. Without a case, the headphones can be vulnerable to scratches or damage when tossed into a bag or backpack. Care needs to be taken to avoid impacts or pressure that could affect their structure. Overall, while the JBL Tune noise cancelling headphone can handle regular use, extra precautions are needed to maintain their condition.

Portability

In terms of portability, the JBL Tune 770NC has features that enhance its usability on the go. They have dimensions of 5.0" (12.7 cm) in height, 7.4" (18.9 cm) in width, and 2.9" (7.4 cm) in depth, making them relatively compact for over-ear headphones. When not in use, they can fold down to a smaller size, allowing for easier storage in bags. The ear cups also swivel to lay flat, which further aids in portability and makes them easier to pack.

Despite these portability features, the absence of a carrying case limits their ease of transport. Without adequate protection, users must be cautious about how they store the headphones to avoid potential damage. While they are passably portable, frequent travelers might find themselves looking for a more protective solution.

The JBL headphone strikes a reasonable balance between durability and portability. They can handle everyday wear and tear, but users should be mindful of their care to prevent damage. The folding design and compact size enhance portability, making them suitable for on-the-go listening. However, the lack of a case necessitates careful handling to maintain their condition. Overall, these headphones are a good choice for casual use, provided users take the necessary precautions.

Final Verdict

One of the standout features of the JBL Tune 770NC headphones is how flat they fold for storage and transport. Now, some might think, “But aren’t all headphones like that these days? This might sound familiar, but hold on a moment. But wait a minute. It’s a bit rude to interrupt, isn’t it? Besides, when was the last time you actually tried folding headphones down?

Take my everyday pair of Sonys, for example. They do fold down, sure, but the bulk reduction is only about 30%. They still take up a lot of space in a relatively full bag, which often leads me to wear them instead. In contrast, this JBL tune headphone truly folds flat. They slide into a bag effortlessly, like a thief in the night.

It may seem odd to get excited about such a feature, but it genuinely enhances the user experience. The ability to store them easily without taking up too much space can make a significant difference for those who are constantly on the go.

The JBL Tune 770NC is a solid pair of headphones. They are accurately priced and come with decent features. While you’re not getting audiophile levels of quality, you also won’t be shelling out $900. Like they say, the quality matches the price. At the $200 price point, the Tune 770NC provides good value for money. They meet everyday needs without breaking the bank, making them a worthwhile choice for casual listeners.