ZDNET’s Key Insights
For consumers searching for audio gear that marries affordability with surprisingly refined performance, the JLab Go Pods ANC earbuds stand out as a compelling option. Priced at only $22 on Amazon, they deliver a level of sound quality that far exceeds initial expectations—particularly when measured against their modest cost. Enthusiasts and casual listeners alike may find themselves genuinely astonished by the auditory experience they provide once properly configured. However, to unlock their full potential, the companion JLab mobile application becomes indispensable, serving as the gateway to essential adjustments and performance enhancements.
The Importance of Noise-Canceling
Some individuals remain skeptical of active noise-canceling (ANC), dismissing it as a mere marketing strategy or unnecessary embellishment. This perspective, though common, overlooks the profound influence that high-quality ANC implementation can exert on overall listening. Noise-canceling technology is not simply about creating silence; rather, it works by generating inverse sound waves that effectively neutralize unwanted background noise. By using microphones and processors embedded in the earbuds, the device analyzes ambient sounds in real time and produces counteracting audio signals that essentially dissolve interference. When executed properly, ANC enriches the balance of the entire sonic spectrum, allowing details—particularly in the lower ranges such as bass frequencies—to emerge with power and clarity. Without it, basslines frequently fade into thinness and midtones dominate, leaving the sound flat. When enabled, however, ANC can raise the auditory experience to levels typically associated with far more expensive hardware.
That said, caution is warranted. For example, while running or engaging in outdoor activity, activating noise-canceling can obscure critical environmental sounds, such as an approaching car or cyclist. In such scenarios, disabling ANC becomes prudent for safety, ensuring that situational awareness is maintained even while enjoying immersive audio.
Personal Experience With the JLab Go Pods ANC
Upon first unboxing the earbuds, the reviewer immediately noted that the initial battery level was nearly depleted, necessitating a complete charge before use. After restoring them to full capacity, the pairing process proved almost effortless, thanks to Google’s Fast Pair functionality: opening the charging case and waiting a few seconds was all it took for the connection to be established on a Pixel 9 Pro device. This smooth onboarding process underscores the attention JLab has given to usability and integration.
Once paired, music playback commenced through Spotify, though the initial impression was underwhelming. Without ANC enabled, the sound profile leaned heavily on midrange frequencies, with weak bass and recessed highs. To alleviate this imbalance, downloading the dedicated JLab mobile application proved essential. Although some users may feel frustration at the need to install an extra application for such adjustments, in practice, it is the app that transforms the earbuds from adequate to remarkable.
Sound Transformation Through the App
Activating ANC within the app immediately reshaped the listening experience. Bass frequencies gained depth and resonance, the overly dominant mids retreated into balance, and the treble gained striking clarity. This transformation alone revealed how dependent the sound quality was on properly using the provided software. Moreover, venturing into the equalizer (EQ) settings revealed functionality far more capable than that found in many competing apps. Rather than offering superficial or imperceptible changes, JLab’s ten-band EQ allowed for significant alterations across the tonal spectrum, enabling users to craft a custom output closely aligned with personal preference, whether for hip-hop, classical, electronic, or rock.
Beyond sound customization, the app also includes thoughtful features aimed at diverse lifestyles. Notably, a built-in interval timer is particularly useful for workouts, though the onus remains on the user to remember to activate this tool beforehand.
Performance and Listening Tests
With the JLab earbuds configured through the app, the results were impressive across multiple genres. The sense of instrument separation and placement was surprisingly competent for this price range, delivering a soundstage that—while not the most expansive ever heard—offered enough spatial awareness for instruments and vocals to occupy distinct auditory positions. From delicate acoustic arrangements to bass-heavy electronic tracks, the earbuds produced a richness and dynamic presence seldom found in devices under $100, let alone under $25.
In one striking example, while listening to the progressive rock classic “Tom Sawyer” from Rush’s legendary *Moving Pictures* album, the earbuds conveyed extraordinary energy and nuance. The dynamic interplay between driving percussion, layered synthesizers, and crisp guitar riffs emerged vividly, fooling the listener into believing the performance was coming from earbuds several times the price. Although the song’s pristine mastering aids in its energetic reproduction across most devices, achieving this level of vibrancy at a $22 price point remains extraordinary.
Practical Considerations: Sound Quality With Adjustments
It is important to note, however, that such impressive results relied on enabling ANC and applying appropriate EQ adjustments. Out of the box, without these modifications, the earbuds’ performance aligns more closely with their low-cost identity. With minimal effort through the JLab app, however, the same earbuds rival the richness and complexity of much more expensive competitors. In short, they reward a willingness to fine-tune.
Buying Advice
As highlighted by ZDNET, purchasing the JLab Go Pods ANC earbuds represents exceptional value. For just $22, consumers gain access to a listening device capable of producing sound quality that would normally require a significantly larger investment. For budget-conscious buyers or those hesitant to spend heavily on audio, these earbuds are a nearly risk-free purchase deserving of strong consideration. While sweat-heavy workouts may pose limitations for those whose biology conflicts with this form factor, under normal conditions they perform admirably.
Technical Specifications
– Noise-Canceling Variants: Hybrid ANC offering active, ambient, and talk-through modes
– Drivers: 10 mm dynamic drivers for impactful sound reproduction
– Compatibility: Supports Google Fast Pair for seamless device connection
– Durability: IP55 water resistance rating offers protection against dust and light moisture
– Microphones: Equipped with two dedicated noise-canceling microphones
– Battery Life: Approximately 7.5 hours on a single charge, with an additional 26+ hours available via the charging case; a quick 10-minute charge provides nearly 5 hours of playback
– Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.4 with multipoint connectivity for convenience
– Special Modes: Low-latency option ensures smoother synchronization during media playback
Conclusion
Ultimately, the JLab Go Pods ANC prove that high-quality sound and thoughtful functionality need not come at a premium. By embracing proper configuration through the companion app and leveraging its powerful ANC technology, these remarkably affordable earbuds emerge as one of the most impressive budget audio offerings available today.
Sourse: https://www.zdnet.com/article/these-20-earbuds-have-no-business-sounding-this-good-for-the-price-and-im-an-audiophile/
