JBL is launching the fourth generation of its popular Live wireless headphone line, expanding with the Beam 4 models, Buds 4 and Flex 4. In this review, I will focus in detail on the JBL Live Beam 4 model, which represents a kind of imaginary "golden mean" in the brand's portfolio and relies on a proven closed design with silicone tips and a foot. This type of design will be appreciated especially by users who are looking for a compromise between comfortable wearing, reliable fixation in the ear and excellent passive noise isolation. And I admit right away that I belong to this target group. In addition to improved sound and uncompromising battery life, the biggest attraction of this model is also the charging case with a touch screen, thanks to which you get full control over listening without having to reach for your mobile phone and maybe even the app.
Innovative Smart Charging Case™: Control right from your pocket
The star of the new line is undoubtedly the aforementioned redesigned Smart Charging Case™. It features a 1,44″ touchscreen display on its top, powered by the JBL Smart OS 3.0 system. ProThrough this simple and intuitive interface, you can manage a variety of functions directly from the case. For example, adjust the volume, switch songs, control active noise cancellation modes (ANC) or the permeability of ambient sounds, and even fine-tune the equalizer curve (EQ). The display also shows the current time. The case effectively replaces the basic functions of the mobile application, which significantly increases the comfort of everyday use. I did not need the application at all during testing. In any case, I do not know how the display will be after a year of carrying the box in your pocket along with your keys. I was extremely careful about this. I would recommend the same to you.
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Design and ergonomics: Stability and durability for an active life
The JBL Live Beam 4 headphones have an ergonomic "beam" design with a characteristic foot. The weight of one headphone is negligible 4,85 grams and the weight of the entire case is 73 grams. The closed design with silicone tips ensures not only great stability in the ears during movement and light exercise, but also an excellent level of passive isolation of ambient noise. A big plus for active users is the IP55 certification. The headphones are thus protected against dust and can easily withstand splashes of water or sweat. You can use them without any worries during training, traveling and other outdoor activities. What I especially appreciate about the headphones is that they can recognize a fleeting touch when you are just adjusting the headphones in your ear. NestIt seems to you that even the slightest unwanted touch will perform some action.
Sound: Detailed Hi-Res Audio and spatial experience
The heart of the acoustic system are 10mm dynamic drivers that deliver the proven, characteristic JBL Signature Sound. The sound is characterized by clear details, deep, naturally balanced bass and clear highs, which you will appreciate both when listening to music and when watching videos or listening to podcasts. A significant benefit is the support for high-resolution audio (Hi-Res Audio), which makes every detail of your favorite recording stand out and everything sounds more vivid and realistic. Ordinary stereo recordings can be enhanced with JBL technology Spatial Software-reshape sound into a more natural and immersive three-dimensional spatial experience. Plus, you can fully personalize your sound profile using Personi-Fi 3.0 in the JBL Headphones app.ones. This tool, based on an interactive test of your hearing and your personal preferences, will create a completely unique sound curve tailored to you. If, like me, you suffer from good bass, you have come to the right place. In my opinion, the bass belongs to JBL and works perfectly here. It is honest and definitely not overblown.
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Adaptive ANC and modes for contact with the environment
Pro To achieve absolute concentration and eliminate distractions, the headphones are equipped with an advanced True Adaptive Noise C systemancelling 2.0 (adaptive noise cancellation 2nd generation). This technology constantly monitors your surroundings and adjusts the intensity of noise cancellation to current conditions using automatic calibration in real time. If, on the other hand, you need to be aware of what is happening around you, the Smart Ambient function comes in handy. This is complemented by the fully adjustable Ambient Sound function, thanks to which you can determine exactly how much ambient sound you want to let into the headphones in the app. The Smart Talk function is also practical, which automatically mutes the music you are playing as soon as you start talking, allowing you to respond quickly and easily to other people's questions.
Microphones, calls andoneBluetooth 6.0 activity
The Perfect Calls 2.0 system ensures high-quality voice transmission during phone calls, using a total of six integrated microphones (three on each earbud) with beamforming technology. This system works closely with a smart algorithm trained by artificial intelligence, whose task is to effectively isolate and suppress ambient noise even in busy urban environments. The result is a clear and natural voice in all circumstances. ProThe caller had no problems with clarity even on a busy main road. You can also adjust the sound parameters of the call in the appce.
From the point of view ofoneThe headphones rely on the latest Bluetooth 6.0 with LE technology support AudioThis not only ensures a more reliable and stable connection to the end device, but above all, more economical audio transmission while maintaining high quality. The headphones support unicast broadcasting and are future-proof thanks to the integration of the Auracast™ audio sharing standard (available via the JBL Headphones app).one(s). Function Audio The switch then ensures seamless simultaneous connections and seamless switching, for example, between your mobile phone andonewith a work laptop without the need for lengthy disconnection and pairing. We must not forget about the support of Google Finder, which makes it easy to find your lost headphones through the Google device network.
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ExcelExcellent battery life and charging options
When it comes to battery life, the Live Beam 4 is the absolute best in its class. The headphones themselves can play music continuously for up to 12 hours, and the smart charging case offers a power reserve for an additional 36 hours of operation. This gives us a total of an excellent 48 hours of total listening time when the function is on. ANC off. If you need a quick recharge, you can use the fast charging support via USB-C, which in just 10 minutes on the charger will provide the headphones with enough energy for another 4 hours of operation. Users who prefer a desk free of cables will certainly appreciate the integrated support for Qi wireless charging, which the smart case is equipped with.
In conclusion, the JBL Live Beam 4 is a very comprehensive device that combines excellent sound performance, robust construction and top-notch battery life. The smart case with display is an element that takes this model to the next level and offers users an unprecedented level of comfort and control over their listening experience. You will also be interested in the color palette in the form of variant black, purple, silver, orange, green, champagne and blue. At the beginning of this review, it was said that these headphones belong to the Beam 4 family. If you prefer a different headphone design, you may be interested in the model Buds 4, which has a bean shape without a foot, but also rubber plugs, or a model Flex 4, which has a foot and a "pebble" construction. The price of the JBL Live Beam 4 is 4990 CZK.
