JBL Live 680 NC & Live 780 NC

Both models use 40-mm dynamic drivers and, according to the manufacturer, support Hi-Res Audio in both wireless and wired modes. The claimed frequency response is 10 Hz - 40 kHz, with impedance specified at 32 ohms and sensitivity at 98 dB SPL at 1 kHz. JBL has also equipped the new headphones with Spatial Sound, which is designed to convert a standard stereo signal into a more spacious listening experience. Personi-Fi 3.0, available in the JBL Headphones app, allows users to create an individual sound curve based on their own hearing characteristics. The main differences between the two models are structural. The JBL Live 680 NC is the lighter on-ear model, intended for people who use headphones more often outside the home and prefer a more compact form. It weighs 231.16 g, while its ear cushions measure 74.5 x 74.5 mm on the outside, with an internal opening of 31 x 31 mm. The JBL Live 780 NC is the larger over-ear model, designed for deeper isolation and greater comfort during longer listening sessions. It weighs 260 g, while its ear cushions measure 98.6 x 80 mm externally, with an internal opening of 60.4 x 41.5 mm. This is not a specification that is often emphasized, but it is a very practical one, as it immediately shows whether the headphones rest on the ear or surround it with more space.

One of the key elements of the Live 4 series is True Adaptive Noise Cancelling 2.0. In the Live 680 NC, JBL uses a four-microphone system that analyzes external conditions and dynamically adjusts the level of noise reduction to the environment. The Live 780 NC gets a more advanced six-microphone system, intended to analyze noise more precisely and reduce external sounds more effectively. In both cases, the user retains control over how much outside sound is allowed in, which matters not only when traveling, but also in the office, on the street or in situations where being completely cut off from the surroundings is not always the best solution.

The new headphones are also intended to work well for phone calls and video meetings. Both models use additional beamforming microphones and AI-trained algorithms designed to separate the user's voice from background noise, wind and typical urban sound. In everyday use, this can be more important than many headline features, because headphones are now used not only for music, but also for work, online meetings, calls in public transport and quick switching between entertainment and obligations.

For connectivity, JBL has chosen Bluetooth 6.0, LE Audio and Auracast support. From the user's perspective, the most important point is that the new models are designed to allow more efficient streaming, sound sharing with other compatible devices and convenient use of two sources at the same time. Multipoint connection makes it possible, for example, to watch a film on a tablet and answer an incoming call on a smartphone without manually disconnecting and pairing the headphones again. Both models also work with the optional JBL Smart Tx transmitter, which allows control of headphone functions even when they are connected via USB-C or a 3.5-mm cable.

Battery life is one of the strongest points of the Live 680 NC and Live 780 NC. Both models use an 870-mAh lithium-ion battery and offer up to 80 hours of music playback with Bluetooth on and noise cancelling off. With ANC activated, the claimed battery life is up to 50 hours. In call mode, the headphones are said to last up to 33 hours with ANC off and up to 28 hours with noise cancelling on. A full charge from empty takes 2 hours, while 5 minutes of quick charging should provide another 4 hours of listening. These are particularly useful figures for people who use headphones throughout the day - while traveling, working, walking and watching films in the evening.

The more expensive Live 780 NC also includes features not listed for the Live 680 NC. The first is Low Volume Dynamic EQ, designed to preserve a fuller sound at low listening levels. This may be useful for late-night listening, working in quiet surroundings or situations in which the user does not want to increase the volume simply to retain bass clarity and dynamic expression. The second is Personal Sound Amplification, which allows conversation balance to be adjusted. Together with the larger over-ear construction and six-microphone ANC system, these functions show that the Live 780 NC is intended as the more advanced, more comfortable and more complete version of the new concept, while the Live 680 NC remains the lighter and more mobile option.

JBL has also paid attention to build and ergonomics. Both models feature soft ear cushions, a silicone headband and metal hinges, which should improve durability during frequent folding, transport and daily use. The headphones can be folded, making them easier to carry in a bag or backpack, and the included audio cable is 120 cm long. In practice, this means the new models can be used both as typical Bluetooth headphones and in a wired configuration, which can still be useful when traveling, using computers, older players or in-flight entertainment systems. The JBL Live 680 NC is priced at €149/£129/$159, while the JBL Live 780 NC costs €179/£169/$249. Info and photos by JBL.