In a market dominated by giants like Apple and Samsung, Jabra is stepping up to the plate with their latest offerings that aim to redefine the earbud experience. The Elite 10 and Elite 8 Active, showcased at IFA 2023 in Berlin, are poised to set a new standard for audio quality, durability, and innovation, challenging the status quo in the world of personal audio.
Jabra’s Elite 10 earbuds are designed to be a true testament to the brand’s commitment to audio excellence. Packed with upgraded 10-millimeter drivers, these earbuds promise an auditory experience that’s richer and more detailed than ever before. The company has even joined forces with Dolby to introduce head-tracking spatial audio, aimed at providing a heightened sense of immersion and a wider soundstage. While opinions on head tracking might differ, the option adds a layer of depth for those who seek a more enveloping sonic journey.
Understanding that comfort is paramount for consumers, Jabra has reimagined the design of their Elite 10 buds. The semi-open design ensures a comfortable fit and eliminates any feeling of ear-clogging or discomfort. Notably, the oval-shaped silicone ear tips offer extended comfort without intruding deep into the ears. Despite this emphasis on comfort, Jabra hasn’t compromised on active noise cancellation (ANC). Utilizing advanced scanning technology, these earbuds dynamically adjust the ANC filter, ensuring an optimal level of noise cancellation tailored to your surroundings.
For fitness enthusiasts, the Elite 8 Active emerges as a standout option. Branded as “the world’s toughest earbuds,” these buds have undergone rigorous testing, surpassing industry standards. Boasting an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, and even meeting Military Standard 810H for ruggedness, these earbuds can endure extreme temperatures, shocks, saltwater exposure, and submersion. With Jabra’s signature ShakeGrip coating, they stay securely in place during even the most intense workouts. The Elite 8 Active also has Dolby spatial audio, but it isn’t quite as immersive and effective as the one on the Elite 10 which also offers head-tracking.
Both the Elite 10 and Elite 8 Active share a plethora of features, including wireless charging, multipoint Bluetooth connectivity, standalone mono mode, and compatibility with LE Audio. While they currently support AAC and SBC codecs out of the box, a future firmware update will integrate LC3 and LC3 Plus codecs for even better sound quality. Plus, these earbuds offer Fast Pair on Android and Swift Pair on PC for effortless device connection.
The Elite 10 and Elite 8 Active are slated for release in September, promising an upgraded audio experience and durability that’s tailor-made for diverse lifestyles. As Jabra continues to tread its path alongside industry giants, these new offerings beckon a closer look at how they’re set to redefine our auditory encounters.