Design
1.has stereo speakers
JBL Tune 500BT
Sony MDR-XB650BT
Devices with stereo speakers deliver sound from independent channels on both left and right sides, creating a richer sound and a better experience.
2.has an over-the-ear form
JBL Tune 500BT
Sony MDR-XB650BT
Comfortable full-size form with earcups that fully enclose your ears. This model is loved for its increased sound isolation and the fact that it won’t leak sound to your neighbors. It offers potential for maximum bass and loudness levels.
3.has a detachable cable
JBL Tune 500BT
Sony MDR-XB650BT
With a detachable cable you can use alternative cables, and if the cable is pulled it will pop out instead of breaking.
4.sweat resistance
JBL Tune 500BT
Sony MDR-XB650BT
Resistance to sweat makes it ideal for use while doing sports.
5.weather-sealed (splashproof)
JBL Tune 500BT
Sony MDR-XB650BT
The device is protected with extra seals to prevent failures caused by dust, raindrops, and water splashes.
6.weight
155g
190g
We consider a lower weight better because lighter devices are more comfortable to carry. A lower weight is also an advantage for home appliances, as it makes transportation easier, and for many other types of products.
7.can be folded
JBL Tune 500BT
Sony MDR-XB650BT
Foldable devices are easier to transport and take up less storage space.
8.travel bag is included
JBL Tune 500BT
Sony MDR-XB650BT
The device comes with its own special case or pouch, which is useful for safe transportation.
9.has a tangle free cable
JBL Tune 500BT
Sony MDR-XB650BT
The cable is designed to minimize tangling.
Our Verdict
6.4
Neutral Sound
Mediocre for neutral listening. The small and closed-back in-ear design means they won’t have the most spacious soundstage. That combined with their poorly balanced sound that favors bass over instruments and vocals make them sound cluttered, muddy and a bit boxy which may be somewhat okay for casual listening but won’t be ideal for more neutral listeners.
Pros
- Above-average build quality.
- Minimal leakage.
Cons
- Mediocre-at-best control scheme.
- Bass-heavy sound, not for everyone.
See our Neutral Sound Recommendations
5.5
Commute/Travel
Decent for commuting. The Sony MDR-XB50AP Extra Bass are lightweight, ultra-portable headphones that passively block a lot of noise. They won’t be the best in very loud environments, but they can handle the level of most commutes, especially if you’re listening to music at moderately high volumes.
Pros
- Above-average build quality.
- Minimal leakage.
Cons
- Mediocre-at-best control scheme.
- Bass-heavy sound, not for everyone.
See our Commute/Travel Recommendations
6.5
Sports/Fitness
Above-average for sports use. Although they’re not as stable as some of the other in-ears, they’re compact lightweight and decently comfortable. However, they do not have the best control scheme, and since they’re wired, they might get yanked out of your ears relatively easily if the cable gets hooked by something.
Pros
- Above-average build quality.
- Minimal leakage.
Cons
- Mediocre-at-best control scheme.
- Bass-heavy sound, not for everyone.
See our Sports/Fitness Recommendations
6.0
Office
Average for office use. They prevent a fair bit of noise from entering your audio. They also barely leak so they won’t distract your colleagues in quieter environments.
Pros
- Above-average build quality.
- Minimal leakage.
Cons
- Mediocre-at-best control scheme.
- Bass-heavy sound, not for everyone.
See our Office Recommendations
4.7
Wireless Gaming
Average for gaming. They have a wired connection, so they have negligible latency which is suitable for gaming. They also have a decent microphone that’s compatible with consoles and PCs. Unfortunately, they sound overly bass-heavy and lack a good app to customize their sound profile like most gaming headsets. Their in-ear fit also won’t be as comfortable for all listeners, especially during long gaming sessions.
See our Wireless Gaming Recommendations
6.7
Wired Gaming
Pros
- Above-average build quality.
- Minimal leakage.
Cons
- Mediocre-at-best control scheme.
- Bass-heavy sound, not for everyone.
6.5
Phone Calls
Pros
- Above-average build quality.
- Minimal leakage.
Cons
- Mediocre-at-best control scheme.
- Bass-heavy sound, not for everyone.
6.4
Neutral Sound
5.5
Commute/Travel
6.5
Sports/Fitness
6.0
Office
4.7
Wireless Gaming
6.7
Wired Gaming
6.5
Phone Calls
+ Create your own
- Updated Nov 04, 2021:
Converted to Test Bench 1.5. - Updated Feb 17, 2020:
Converted to Test Bench 1.4. - Updated Nov 21, 2019:
Converted to Test Bench 1.3.1. - Updated Nov 21, 2019:
Converted to Test Bench 1.3. - Updated Feb 16, 2018:
Converted to Test Bench 1.2. - Updated Oct 02, 2017:
The microphone has been tested with our new methodology, as explained here - Updated Aug 22, 2017:
Review published.
Звук
Маркировка MDR-XB указывает на то, что эти наушники относятся к недавно запущенной линейке наушников Сони, нацеленной на более мощное воспроизведение басов, в отличие от MDR-EX и MDR-XD.
На самом деле Сони заявляет, что специалисты компании проанализировали различные музыкальные направления и попытались создать наиболее подходящие наушники для таких стилей как хип-хоп или даб и производных от них. К слову, в технических характеристиках MDR-XB500 заявлен диапазон от 4 герц до 24 килогерц, а значит эта модель без проблем способна воспроизвести самые глубокие суббасы.
О том и речь! Дайте этим наушникам поработать с чем-нибудь вроде Inertia Creeps от Massive Attack, и вы не столько услышите музыку, сколько ощутите, как каждый удар «бочки» и каждая нота баса отдается внутри вас, словно где-то глубоко под вашими ногами зарождается дрожь Земли, готовая в любую минуту разразиться мощным и сокрушительным толчком. Эти басы не долбят по ушам и не выставляются из общего диапазона, заглушая «середину» и «верхи». На самом деле это очень мягкие и хорошо сбалансированные низы, но при этом они заполняют весь звуковой спектр и доминируют в нём.
Не сказать, что MDR-XB500 не способны хорошо воспроизводить верхние частоты. Скорее, яркость и искристость в верхней части диапазона — это не их профиль. Эти наушники призваны воспроизводить во всей красе лишь несколько музыкальных жанров, а всё остальное — не их специализация. Они хороши там, где они хороши! Многие аудиофилы, слушая различные наушники, отмечают, что они могут проявить себя в полной мере при воспроизведении студийного или живого звука, при воссоздании атмосферы концертного зала. Та же история и в случае MDR-XB500 — они призваны воссоздавать атмосферу лучших танцполов.
Возможно, такую специализацию этой модели задают 40-миллиметровые драйверы. Конечно, пространственность в этой модели не так уж точна, но широкое мягко обволакивающее звуковое поле вам гарантированно.
Features
1.can be used as a headset
JBL Tune 500BT
Sony MDR-XB650BT
A headset is one headphone or pair with a built-in microphone. Headsets can be used for apps that require communication i.e. Skype, games with voice chat, mobile phones, etc.
2.has a noise-canceling microphone
JBL Tune 500BT
Sony MDR-XB650BT
These microphones are designed to filter out background noise from the desired sound. Especially useful in noisy environments.
3.number of microphones
1
1
More microphones result in better sound quality and enable the device to filter out background noise.
4.control panel placed on a device
JBL Tune 500BT
Sony MDR-XB650BT
There is a control panel on the device body, so you can easily access the volume control or remote without having to interact with a cable or another device it’s connected to.
5.Has an in-line control panel
JBL Tune 500BT
Sony MDR-XB650BT
There is a control panel on the cable, so you can easily operate the device without having to interact with it.
6.warranty period
1
1
When covered under the manufacturer’s warranty it is possible to get a replacement in the case of a malfunction.
7.Has voice prompts
JBL Tune 500BT
Sony MDR-XB650BT
With voice prompts, you will automatically receive information via audio messages – for instance, you may find out that the battery is running low, and it’s time to recharge the device.
8.has a mute function
JBL Tune 500BT
Sony MDR-XB650BT
The device has an option to mute/unmute a conversation directly from the device.
9.multipoint count
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (JBL Tune 500BT)
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Sony MDR-XB650BT)
Multipoint allows you to link to more Bluetooth devices and switch between them. For example you can easily switch calls from one device to another without having to manually disconnect and reconnect.
Connectivity
1.Can be used wirelessly
JBL Tune 500BT
Sony MDR-XB650BT
Wireless devices allow users more freedom of movement.
2.Bluetooth version
4.1
4
Bluetooth is a wireless technology standard that allows data transfers between devices placed in close proximity, using short-wavelength, ultra-high frequency radio waves. Newer versions provide faster data transfers.
3.has a 3.5mm male connector
JBL Tune 500BT
Sony MDR-XB650BT
A standard 3.5mm male connector is suitable for use with all MP3 players and computer sound cards.
4.Has Bluetooth aptX
JBL Tune 500BT
Sony MDR-XB650BT
Bluetooth aptX is an audio codec used for transmitting hi-resolution audio wirelessly from Bluetooth-enabled devices. Developed by Qualcomm, the aptX audio technology includes variations such as aptX HD, aptX Low Latency, and aptX Adaptive.
5.maximum Bluetooth range
10m
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Sony MDR-XB650BT)
The device can connect at a greater distance via Bluetooth or infrared to another device.
6.supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
JBL Tune 500BT
Sony MDR-XB650BT
Wi-Fi 6, released in 2019, is based on the IEEE 802.11ax wireless LAN standard. Designed to operate in all frequency bands between 1 and 6 GHz, it offers higher data rates and lower latency compared to previous Wi-Fi technologies.
7.supports Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)
JBL Tune 500BT
Sony MDR-XB650BT
802.11ac wireless works on the 5GHz frequency range. It offers higher transfer rates, improved reliability, and improved power consumption. It provides advantages for gaming and HD video streaming.
8.supports Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n)
JBL Tune 500BT
Sony MDR-XB650BT
Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) is a wireless standard released in 2009. It has faster transfer rates and improved security compared to its predecessors – a, b, and g.
9.supports Bluetooth pairing using NFC
JBL Tune 500BT
Sony MDR-XB650BT
Device supports fast Bluetooth pairing using NFC so it can communicate with other devices over Bluetooth. You can fastly pair devices without entering a code by simply holding one device next to the device with which it is to be paired.
Дизайн и конструкция
Sony MDR-XB500 — это наушники закрытого типа с довольно стандартным дизайном, что подразумевает наличие как плюсов, так и минусов такой конструкции. Чаши наушников достаточно большие, благодаря мягким подушкам, довольно плотно и комфортно садятся вокруг ушных раковин.
Отсутствие на внешней стороне каждой чаши каких-либо отверстий обеспечивает отличную изоляцию от внешних нежелательных звуков, равно как и гарантирует, что окружающим не придется становиться невольными слушателями вашей любимой музыки. Впрочем, при такой конструкции, как правило, слегка страдает пространственность.
Если вы собираетесь слушать музыку в течение продолжительного промежутка времени, то можете быть спокойны — достаточно большие и мягкие подушки и регулируемое оголовье обеспечат вам комфорт на многие часы.
Нельзя не похвалить и ставший уже характерным для последних моделей наушников Сони удобный плоский шнур из бескислородной меди с позолоченным штекером.
Compared To Other Headphones
The Sony MDR-XB50AP are a decently versatile wired in-ear. They do not have the best sound quality and may a bit too bass-heavy for critical listening. But on the upside, they block enough noise to be suitable for commuting and they will easily fit into your pockets so you can have them on you at all times. They’re also sufficiently stable for sports and working out although they won’t be as good as some of the competing in-ear models below. See our recommendations for the best earbuds and in-ears, the best earbuds under $50, and the best cheap earbuds.
Apple EarPods
The Sony MDR-XB50AP Extra Bass are more versatile headphones than the Apple EarPods due to their closed-back design that isolates more ambient noise, which makes them more suitable for commuting. As their name suggests, the Sony have a very bass-heavy sound profile, while the Apple’s open-design lacks sub-bass, but don’t lack detail in the treble range like the Sony do. Also, the Apple are more comfortable, if you can find a good fit. They have a decent in-line remote with volume control, which the Sony don’t have, disappointingly. The Apple have a decent microphone for calls, while the Sony are a more stable option for sports.
1More Triple Driver
The 1More Triple Driver are slightly better wired in-ear headphones than the Sony MDR-XB50AP Extra Bass. The 1More are a bit more comfortable, have a better in-line remote that’s easier to use, and come with a much nicer carrying case. They also have a better-balanced sound profile that still has a good amount of bass, but isn’t nearly as bass-heavy and boomy as the Sony. If you use your headphones while taking calls, the mic on the 1More also has a better recording quality, though they both sound good. Other than that, the Sony block more background noise, and some people may like their very bass-heavy sound profile, especially if you listen to a lot of music that isn’t vocal-centric or instrument-driven, like EDM or dubstep.
Logitech G333
The Logitech G333 are better headphones for most purposes than the Sony MDR-XB50AP Extra Bass. The Logitech have a much more comfortable fit and a better build quality. Their in-line controls offer more functionality and better feedback, and they have an in-line mic with significantly better recording quality. On the other hand, the Samsung are slightly more compact and leak much less sound. They also do a somewhat better job of passively isolating you from noises like background conversations.
1More Piston Fit
The Sony MDR-XB50AP Extra Bass are better headphones than the 1More Piston Fit. They have a more balanced sound, isolate more ambient noise, and barely leak. The Sony also feel more durable than the 1More. On the other hand, the 1More feel more comfortable thanks to their very small and lightweight earbuds, and they have a better microphone for calls.
Заключение
Наушники Sony MDR-XB500, благодаря своей конструкции, могут обеспечить вам комфортное прослушивание любимой музыки на целый день. Они идеально подходят для любителей танцевальной клубной музыки. Однако, для любителей музыкальных направлений эту модель вряд ли можно порекомендовать. Конечно, можно добиться более выразительного звучания середины и верхов подстройкой эквалайрера. В таком случае модель может достойно зазвучать и на воспроизведении альтернативного рока или металла, но вряд ли вам удастся услышать атмосферу концертного зала, или прокуренного бара где-нибудь в Новом Орлеане, вряд ли вам удастся услышать звучание каждой скрипки в симфоническом оркестре
Истинным меломанам настоятельно рекомендуется обратить своё внимание на модели лишенные маркировки XB (Extra bass) и желательно более высокой ценовой категории
