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You are here: Home / 2019 / Archives for March 2019

Archives for March 2019

Edifier S880DB Bookshelf Speakers Review

03/19/2019 By Hakan Can

Edifier S880DB Bookshelf Speakers Review

Best Bookshelf Speakers Under $300?

Having a portable speaker and headphones at-and-around my home office desk has been a blessing all these years. Yet, for over a decade there’s been something missing, and that’s a pair of bookshelf speakers. I’m not talking about a sub-$100 pair from the likes of Logitech or Cambridge Sound Works. I mean a good or great pair of bookshelf speakers; something to be proud of and to impress house guests with. This is where Edifier comes in with 16 pairs to choose from.  So without further delay, let’s take a closer look at one of these in this Edifier S880DB Bookshelf Speakers review.

Edifier S880DB Bookshelf Speakers Review

Pros:
• High-quality audio
• Multiple inputs and controls
• Multiple cables included
• A futuristic remote control
• Two-year warranty

Cons:
• Bass is limited to 55 Hz
• $300 price may be an issue to some

Read:   JBL Unveils New Wireless Headphones and Speakers at CES 2019

Edifier S880DB Bookshelf Speakers Review

Design and Features

As you can all see, the Edifier S880DB speakers are one attractively designed pair of speakers. And they’re feature rich too.

Now think about this for a moment. When was the last time you saw a pair of white-and-tan bookshelf speakers?

For the past month or so, I’ve been testing the S880DB to much delight. How could I not when there are so many different audio sources that I could connect to.

Edifier S880DB Bookshelf Speakers Review

Per the Edifier website, “The S880DB has a range of inputs including RCA, AUX, USB, optical, coaxial, and Bluetooth. The USB, optical and coaxial inputs have a sample signal rate of up to 192 kHz. Adjust volume, bass, and treble controls with knobs located on the back of the speaker with a built-in amplifier.” I couldn’t have written that better myself.

Using the RC600B remote control, going wireless is a piece of cake. On the remote, there are the standard Play/Pause, Forward Track, Previous Track, and Volume Increase and Decrease buttons in addition to Power and Source. This latter button takes us to the aforementioned audio sources: RCA, AUX, USB, optical, coaxial, and Bluetooth.

Then there are the four equalization modes: Monitor, Classic, Vocal, and Dynamic. Each method subtlety alters the audio to your preferred preference. See the User Manual for more information.

Note: Don’t strike the Source or Mode buttons too quickly in succession as they won’t change as quickly as you would like. Wait a second or two before hitting the next one.

Edifier S880DB Bookshelf Speakers Review
Edifier S880DB Bookshelf Speakers Review

On the reverse side of the active speaker are all the numerous inputs and controls. See the images above. All except for the optical input method were tried. You can even adjust the Treble, Bass, and Volume using the dials on the rear of the active speaker.

Want to listen to gaming audio from your desktop computer? You can do that.

How about listening to some jazz from your turntable? You can do that too.

Then there’s listening to Amazon Music from your mobile phone or Kindle. You can do both via Bluetooth. Pairing to both was easy.

All of the above sources were tried, and they worked just fine.

Read:   Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 Headset Review: Oh What Sound!

Specifications

• List pricing of $299.99
• 3.75″ (94 mm) mid-range speaker
• 0.75″ (19 mm) tweeter
• Frequency Response: 55 Hz – 20 kHz
• Bluetooth Version: 4.1
• Power Input: 100-240V, 50/60 Hz, 1.5A

• Operating Temp: 0 – 35°C
• R/L Mid Range: 32 + 32 Watts
• R/L Treble: 12 + 12 Watts
• XMOS digital processor
• Built-in amplifier
• Noise Level: ≤ 25 dBA

What’s In The Box?

• Pair of S880DB Speakers
• RC600B Remote Control
• Power Adapter and Cable
• User Manual

• RCA Audio Cable
• RCA to RCA Audio Cable
• Fiber Optic Input Cable
• Speaker Connecting Cable
• USB Connecting Cable

Read:   Moshi Avanti Headphones Review

Amazon Music Playlist

• Halsey – hopeless fountain kingdom
• Halsey – Badlands
• Ellie Goulding – Halcyon
•
Lorde – Pure Heroine
• Zedd – Clarity

• Mumford & Sons – Babel
• The Black Keys – El Camino
• The Smashing Pumpkins – Siamese Dream
• Rush – Clockwork Angels
•
Imagine Dragons – Night Visions

Audio Performance

As I almost always state, the most critical factor regarding headphones and speakers is sound quality. The Edifier S880DB powered bookshelf speakers were tested across a wide range of music including these from the artists and playlists listed above.

The first thing I noticed was how clear and strong the mid-range and upper-frequency sounds were with the Edifier S880DB. Whether it be vocals, acoustic guitar, or some other instrument, they sounded terrific across the albums tested. There’s a dedicated 0.75″ tweeter and 3.75″ mid-range per speaker to target these ranges.

Conversely, bass audio was in the fair – good range as there’s no dedicated bass driver. But, I suppose that’s what a subwoofer is for. The speakers couldn’t produce below 55 Hz which is the lower half of the bass range, and that’s a shame. I missed out on that great bass audio in the 20 – 55 Hz range. If I were listening to music from the likes of The Prodigy or Massive Attack, I’d feel slightly let down as everything short of the deepest bass sounds are present.

Edifier S880DB Bookshelf Speakers Review

I would have been remiss if I didn’t listen to either of Halsey’s albums listed above. The first time I heard Halsey through Edifier speakers took place at a Las Vegas listening party a few months back. I’m pretty sure everyone in the suite was impressed by the quality audio.

Read:   1MORE Dual Driver BT ANC Headphones Review
The first thing I noticed was how clear and strong the mid-range and upper-frequency sounds were with the Edifier S880DB. Click To Tweet

Conclusion

Whether it be from a sight or sound perspective, the Edifier S880DB powered bookshelf speakers are impressive. The size and shape of the speakers were an excellent fit for my desktop arrangement. Mid-range and high-frequency audio terrific. However, the bass languished a bit as the S880DB is unable to produce audio below 55 Hz. I just wish the bass sounds had been deeper and more pronounced.

When compared to its competition, the S880DB definitely stands out. The same can be said with respect to the other 15 bookshelf speaker models offered by Edifier. With its lighter color design, none look quite like this one.

At a list price of a hair under $300, the S880DB offers much to the buyer. Even an audiophile would be impressed. My only complaint with these speakers is now that they’re no longer here, they’re missed, and my desk appears empty without them. I suppose it’s time I start saving for a pair.

• Design – 4.75
• Features – 4.75

• Sound – 4.25
• Value – 4.25

What do you think of this Edifier S880DB bookshelf speakers review? Do you agree or disagree with our verdict? Let us know in the comment section below or via social media. We’re eager to hear your thoughts.

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Don’t hesitate to head over to the Edifier’s social media pages to see their latest announcements. To learn more about warranties, click this Warranty Terms link for information. These headphones come with a two-year limited warranty. To learn about returns, click this Returns Policy link for more information.

FTC Disclosure: Edifier provided Beantown with one (1) set of Edifier S880DB bookshelf speakers as a loaner for review purposes. This writer’s opinion is 100% his own and not a paid product ambassador.

All photographs are the copyrighted property of Beantown LLC © 2019.

Read:   Headphones: Audio-Technica ATH-DSR7BT Review

Filed Under: Speakers Tagged With: bluetooth, bookshelf speakers, Edifier, powered speakers, speakers, wireless bluetooth speakers 03/25/2019

JBL Endurance PEAK Waterproof Sports Headphones Review

03/04/2019 By Hakan Can

JBL Endurance PEAK headphones review

Best Sports Headphones Under $120?

True wireless in a sports headphone is a goal of many of today’s top headphone brands. The latest in-ear waterproof-rated sports headphones are the ENDURANCE PEAK from JBL. PEAK is the 5th model in the JBL ENDURANCE line. At the time of this writing, the ENDURANCE PEAK has received rave reviews earning a 4.4 out of 5 rating from respondents on JBL’s website, feel free to read their testimonials. So without further delay, let’s take a closer look at this JBL Endurance PEAK headphones review.

JBL Endurance PEAK headphones review

Pros:
• High-quality audio
• Touch control design
• Secure wrap around design
• IPX7 waterproof rating
• 28 hours of total battery life

Cons:
• Changing case does not have USB-C connection
• $120 price may be an issue to some

Read:   JBL Unveils New Wireless Headphones and Speakers at CES 2019

JBL Endurance PEAK Headphones Review

JBL Endurance PEAK headphones review

What You Need To Know About Operation

  1. To power on the headphone, remove the right ear headphone and unhook the POWERHOOK™. You’ll hear an engine startup noise. Do the same with the left headphone so that it pairs with the right. A red light will appear when they power on.
  2. For Bluetooth pairing of the headphones to your mobile device, go into your Bluetooth Settings within your mobile device and pair them. You’ll hear a few guitar sounds, and it’ll be complete.
  3. For Bluetooth pairing to a new device, tap the control panel on the right headphone, then tap and hold for five seconds. Now you’re all set. When both headphones are in use, a solid blue light will appear.
  4. All controls are on the right headphone.
  5. To control music, tap the control panel once to play/pause, twice to advance a track, and three times for the previous track.
  6. To adjust volume, brush your finger up or down the control panel to increase or decrease it. You should see the volume adjusted live on your mobile device too.
  7. To control phone calls, tap once to answer a call or to hang up, double tap to decline a call.
  8. To charge the headphones, simply place them into the charging case. There are four lights on the front of the case indicating the percentage level of charge.
  9. Playtime lasts for 3-4 hours. Charging of the headphones takes up to two hours. A 10-minute charge will lead to one hour of additional battery life.
  10. On the right side of the case is the USB charging port. The case provides 24 hours of battery.

JBL Endurance PEAK headphones review

Read:   Libratone Q Adapt On-Ear Headphones Review

Design and Features

For the past week, I’ve been testing the JBL Endurance PEAK headphones at my gym Lifetime Fitness. The first thing I noticed is how eye-catching they were to other gym members. I was approached by no less than a handful inquiring about them. It turned out that no one had ever seen this JBL model before.

During that week, the Endurance PEAK headphones were put through their paces during numerous workouts including plenty of time on a treadmill. Surprisingly, they never once budged from my ears.

The headphones allow for passive audio to come through rather than blocking it all via auto noise cancellation (ANC.) In my opinion, when exercising you need a little bit of external noise to prevent from being startled. On the flip side, so much passive audio was blocked making it difficult to participate in a conversation. Every now and then, I found myself removing the left earpiece to hear those attempting to speak with me.

To counter this issue, there’s a mono mode should you decide to forgo the left headphone altogether. This takes some time to get used to as each ear hears something different.

JBL Endurance PEAK headphones review
JBL Endurance PEAK headphones review

Per the JBL website, “The flexible and secure ear hook design automatically turns the power on/off when putting on or taking off the earphones. These headphones can switch on and off without the need to replace them back in their case every time.” In other words, there’s a wear detection feature. Automatic shutoff occurs after five minutes when no audio is played. Standby mode is good up to three hours, then it’s time to recharge.

If you’ve not worn this type of headphone before, there’s a slight learning curve with respect to its control panel. But don’t worry, it should only take a couple of workouts to master the tapping sequence. See Items 5-7 in the list above. I encountered no issues with anything related to playing music or taking calls. However, I was unable to pause a live stream webinar or the CNBC player.

The (black, blue, or red) outer shell is rubbery and flexible, yet sturdy, particularly the POWERHOOK™ portion of it. The (white or gray) inner shell is of hard plastic. Both shells are sweat and waterproof garnering an IPX7 rating. Per the literature, you can go swimming with these headphones. Just remember to dry them before placing them back into the charging case.

The Endurance PEAK headphones come with three pairs of ear tips and one pair of enhancers. Earbuds are angled and noticeably so to fit your ears better. It is currently available in three colors: black with gray, red with gray, and blue with white.

Read:   Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 Headset Review: Oh What Sound!

Specifications

• List pricing of $119.95
• Driver Type: Dynamic 10 mm per ear
• Waterproof Rating: IPX7:
• Frequency Response: 16 Hz – 22 kHz
• Bluetooth Profiles: A2DP 1.3, AVRCP 1.5, HFP 1.6
• Bluetooth Version: 4.2
• Available in Black, Blue, Red

• Operating Temp: 0 – 40°C
• Battery Life: Up to 4 Hours
• Battery type: Rechargeable Polymer Li-ion
Battery (3.7 V, 75 mAh)
• Charging Case Battery: 24 Hours
• Charging Case Charge Time: 2 Hours
• Charging Case Battery: Rechargeable
Polymer Li-ion battery (1500 mA est.)

What’s In The Box?

• Pair of Headphones
• Charging Case
• USB Charging Cable
• Quick Start Guide

• Safety Booklet
• Warranty Booklet
• 3 Pairs of Ear Tips
• 1 Pair of Ear Enhancers/Secures

Read:   Moshi Avanti Headphones Review

Amazon Music Playlist

• Meg Myers – Make A Shadow
• Tove Lo – Queen Of The Clouds
• Halsey – hopeless fountain kingdom
• Queen – Bohemian Rhapsody Soundtrack

• Mumford & Sons – Babel
• The Black Keys – El Camino
• Play List – Dark Pop
• Play List – Caffeine For Your Ears

Audio Performance

As I often state, in my opinion, the most critical factor regarding headphones is sound quality. The JBL Endurance PEAK in-ear sports headphones were tested across music from the artists and playlists listed above.

Two changes were made to the music playlist I used from my previous headphones review. You can see a link to that review at the bottom of this section. I added a couple of rock albums to mix things up a bit from the electronica and female-heavy pop music.

The first thing I noticed was how low and deep the bass could get. After having listened to Caffeine for Your Ears and Dark Pop Amazon Music playlists, I can state that these in-ear headphones have not only met but exceeded my expectations. Overall, the audio was high-quality and distortion free.

Take a listen to Ping Pong from Bassnectar and Pure Grinding from Avicii. You’ll be most impressed with the bass and percussion of these audio tracks in less than 15 seconds. I played these songs repeatedly to focus on whatever sounds (instrumentals) I may have missed the previous times around. Hearing the ping pong ball set to the audio track was terrific.

For a great test of keyboards including sounds that appear to be from other instruments, but you know they’re actually produced by a keyboard, then listen to Mantra from Timmy Trumpet. Listening to what seems to be a xylophone is a trip in an electronic track.

JBL Endurance PEAK headphones review

I would have been remiss if I didn’t listen to Halsey’s album hopeless fountain kingdom. While the Endurance PEAK reproduced its audio well, and the album is a joy to listen to, she’s not the ideal artist to listen to while working out. When I need to get my pump on, my go-to choice is electronic and rock music. Halsey was more of a test of the headphones capabilities.

As mentioned earlier, these headphones can be used underwater. While that opportunity has yet to present itself, I was able to test the Endurance PEAK during heavy snowfall. Not only did they get wet and perform as advertised, but the headphones also blocked out a substantial portion of the high-decibel noise generated by my Toro snow thrower.

If you live in New England as I do, I suggest you wear a pair of headphones while your machine tosses the snow. Your ears will thank you for the better listening experience. Mine were happier for having listened to Babel from Mumford & Sons.

Read:   1MORE Dual Driver BT ANC Headphones Review

Conclusion

From a physical design perspective, the JBL Endurance PEAK headphones look very similar to earlier models within the Endurance family, minus the neckband. When compared to their competition, JBL definitely stands out, and in a good way.

I found these sports headphones to be very comfortable in and around the ear, more so the latter. After wearing for a short while, I didn’t notice the ear hooks at all. I’ve come to like this design very much and see myself using them for the foreseeable future. Why some choose to wear those bulky over-the-ear sports models is beyond me. They’re not practical for cardio workouts.

Audio life of 3-4 hours is good enough to cover two days of workouts. The charging case increases its life to about two weeks without the need to recharge. A 10-minute charge will lead to an hour of playback. The audio quality is quite good with an extensive range of 16 Hz – 22 kHz.

As I often state, you get what you pay for. The $120 list price is quite fair. In fact, I’m surprised these sports headphones don’t list for more. Those I spoke with in my gym were surprised that the JBL Endurance PEAK was only $120. If you time a sale right, you might grab them for an even $100.

JBL Endurance PEAK headphones review

• Design – 4.5
• Features – 4.0

• Sound – 4.25
• Value – 4.25

What do you think of this JBL Endurance PEAK headphones review? Do you agree or disagree with our verdict? Let us know in the comment section below or via social media. We’re eager to hear your thoughts.

• Follow JBL on Twitter
• Follow JBL on Facebook
• Follow JBL on Instagram

• Follow Beantown on Twitter
• Follow Beantown on Facebook
• Follow Beantown on Instagram

Don’t hesitate to head over to the JBL Latest Products Page to see their newest products. To learn more about warranties, click this link for JBL Help information. These headphones come with a one-year limited warranty.

FTC Disclosure: JBL provided Beantown with one (1) Endurance PEAK headphones sample for review purposes. This writer’s opinion is 100% his own and not a paid product ambassador.

All photographs are the copyrighted property of Beantown LLC © 2019.

Read:   Headphones: Audio-Technica ATH-DSR7BT Review

Filed Under: Headphones Tagged With: Endurance PEAK, In-Ear Headphones, JBL, Sports Headphones, waterproof headphones 03/25/2019

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