May 08, 2024 - 20:46
By pocket-lint.com

Why I have mixed feelings about my new JLab Epic Lab Edition earbuds

Finding a great pair of earbuds that pack great sound quality, fit, comfort, and looks with a decent price tag that isn't just a pair of Apple's AirPods can be a tricky task. Across the market there are many which specialize in one particular area, but don't do it all.

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With the Epic Lab Edition, JLab is hoping to change that, offering a suite of features, a premium build and lots of promise for a still steep $200 price tag. So do the JLab buds do enough to earn a place in your ears?

JLab Epic Lab Edition

The JLab Epic Lab Edition buds go all out to be premium, boasting high-res audio support, a classy design and a host of useful features like multi-point Bluetooth support.

Pros

Premium design
Comfortable fit
Multi-point bluetooth

Cons

Narrow soundstage
Middling ANC
Case is too long

$200 at Amazon

Headphone sound quality

Software and bass is a shining star

I've used JLab earbuds in the past, and while I've been impressed by their features, the sound quality has never really had that «wow» factor. However, JLab seems self-aware of the «wow» factor lacking, and true to form, it has taken a kitchen sink approach to high-end audio, starting with software support. There's spatial audio compatibility, High Res audio, LDAC support and more, all good and nice to see, although dependent on specific devices and inputs to achieve the best results.

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Using an iPhone 13 Pro as a test device, I didn't have access to some of these features, but on the whole, I enjoyed the sonic experience. Bass is particularly warm and energetic, making the buds a solid gym companion, especially if, like me, you like to train listening to dance and EDM music, which sounded particularly great.

Things begin to fall down a bit when it comes to soundstage, which gives a bit too much separation between voices & instruments. Though there's enough to keep more complex songs interesting and