JBL Tune 770NC vs. Sony WH-CH520: A Deep Dive into Affordable Wireless Headphones
The wireless headphone market is booming, offering consumers a wide range of options at various price points. Two popular contenders in the under ₹6,000 (approximately $72 USD) category are the JBL Tune 770NC and the Sony WH-CH520. Both promise comfortable listening experiences, but cater to different preferences. This article provides a detailed comparison, helping you choose the best fit for your needs.
Sound Quality: Bass vs. Balance
The JBL Tune 770NC delivers a warm, bass-heavy sound signature, making it ideal for genres like pop, EDM, and hip-hop. Its V-shaped sound profile boosts both bass and treble, creating an energetic listening experience. The inclusion of Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) further enhances enjoyment by allowing lower listening volumes.
In contrast, the Sony WH-CH520 offers a more natural and balanced sound. While it still provides bass, it lacks the pronounced rumble of the JBL. The focus is on clear mids and highs, making it well-suited for jazz, blues, and rock where vocal and instrumental clarity are paramount.
Design and Comfort: Over-Ear vs. On-Ear
The JBL Tune 770NC features an over-ear design, fully encompassing the ears. This provides excellent comfort for extended listening sessions by reducing direct pressure. It weighs 232 grams.
The Sony WH-CH520 utilizes an on-ear design, resting directly on the ears. It’s lighter at 147 grams, but this can lead to discomfort or fatigue after prolonged use. This model is better suited for shorter listening periods or mobile use.
Key Specifications Compared
| Feature | JBL Tune 770NC | Sony WH-CH520 |
|---|---|---|
| Driver | 40mm | 30mm |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz – 20kHz | 20Hz – 20kHz |
| Impedance | 32 Ohms | N/A (Wireless only) |
| Weight | 232g | 147g |
| Battery Life | Up to 70 hours (ANC Off) | Up to 40 hours |
| Noise Cancellation | Adaptive ANC | Passive Isolation Only |
| Wired Support | Yes (3.5mm jack) | No |
Connectivity and Additional Features
The JBL Tune 770NC boasts Bluetooth 5.3 and a 3.5mm audio jack, offering versatile connectivity options. The wired connection allows for higher audio quality when used with a DAC and conserves battery life. It also supports multipoint pairing, enabling connection to two devices simultaneously.
The Sony WH-CH520 uses Bluetooth 5.2 and also supports multipoint pairing, but lacks a wired connection. Reliance on wireless connectivity enhances portability but limits options when battery is low.
Did you know?
The JBL Tune 770NC offers significantly longer battery life – up to 70 hours with ANC off – compared to the Sony WH-CH520’s 40 hours.
Choosing the Right Headphone for You
For those seeking a versatile headphone with comprehensive connectivity and impressive bass performance, the JBL Tune 770NC is an excellent choice. Its price of around ₹5,500 provides good value, especially for those prioritizing ANC and wired audio quality.
The Sony WH-CH520 offers a lightweight and affordable solution, priced around ₹3,500. It’s ideal for students or office workers who value comfort and natural sound in everyday use with a limited budget.
EQ Customization
Both headphones provide support for equalizer (EQ) adjustments, allowing users to personalize their audio experience. This flexibility ensures you can tailor the sound to your individual preferences.
FAQ
Q: Does the Sony WH-CH520 have noise cancellation?
A: No, the Sony WH-CH520 relies on passive isolation for noise reduction, while the JBL Tune 770NC features Adaptive ANC.
Q: Can I use the JBL Tune 770NC with a cable?
A: Yes, the JBL Tune 770NC includes a 3.5mm audio jack for wired connectivity.
Q: Which headphone is lighter?
A: The Sony WH-CH520 is significantly lighter, weighing 147g compared to the JBL Tune 770NC’s 232g.
Q: Do both headphones support multipoint pairing?
A: Yes, both the JBL Tune 770NC and Sony WH-CH520 support multipoint pairing.
the decision between the JBL Tune 770NC and Sony WH-CH520 depends on your individual priorities, musical tastes, and comfort preferences. Understanding the strengths and limitations of each model will help you make an informed choice.
