Gadgets: Elite earbuds

Jabra has recently launched the second generation of Elite 8 Active and Elite 10 true wireless earbuds.

They are the top-of-the-line in the Elite category, supplying what's said to be the world's toughest earbuds. If you know Jabra's sound quality, you know how good they are. If you're not familiar with Jabra, you should be.

The Elite 8 Active Generation 2 features a new plug-and-play LE Audio smart case, which can be used for situations such as steaming from gym equipment, personal TVs or airline entertainment systems. The case connects directly with the included dual-end cable (USB-C and 3.5mm), so there is no need for Bluetooth.

They have just about every feature you want in a set of true wireless earbuds. This includes the durable design with an IP68 rating on the earbuds, making them fully water, sweat and dust-proof. The LE Audio smart case has an IP54 rating, making it splash and dust-proof. They have twice as strong Adaptive Hybrid Active Noise cancellation as the first generation.

Hands-free calls are as clear and crisp as any I've tried. This is the result of the six built-in microphones and enhanced wind-noise detection. Multiple ear tips are included to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. The earbuds' battery life is about eight hours before a charge from the case is needed. The USB-C charging case can supply up to 32 hours with the ANC on or 56 hours off. Multipoint connections are done with Bluetooth.

Even with all these features, sound is essential. The mega 6mm speakers in each earbud deliver the perfect sound for any genre playlist. The sound is clear and crisp, with spatial sound powered by Dolby Audio. Physical buttons on the earbuds allow for easy control.

During outdoor exercise, the Natural HearThrough feature uses a tap to amplify the sounds around you. This feature is ideal for joggers running through streets who need to hear the noise of approaching vehicles.

https://www.jabra.com/bluetooth-headsets/jabra-elite-8-active-gen-2 $229, available in olive, coral, navy, and black

The new Elite 10 Generation 2 has many of the same features and some differences.

The common features include the LE Audio smart case for streaming to the earbuds. They also have the new and improved Jabra Advanced Active Noise Cancellation, which Jabra has tested to be up to twice as strong as the first generation of Elite 10 true wireless earbuds.

Hands-free calls are crystal clear with the 6-microphone system and noise-reduction algorithms. They are ideal for active users with the Natural HearThrough technology, which enhances wind-noise detection. The Elite 10's have Bluetooth multipoint connection.

With the comfort and sound of a robust 10 mm speaker in each earbud, all-day listening is no problem. The speaker produces a rich bass sound with extreme clarity. Jabra refers to the sound as "a symphony of sound," which I would absolutely agree with after using it for the past few days. They are made with Jabra's semi-open design and Jabra ComfortFit technology, which ensures all-day comfort for all-day use.

The Elite 10 true wireless earbuds have an IP57 rating to protect them from dust and water. The battery will produce 6 hours of playtime, 27 hours total with the USB-C charging case and ANC on, and 36 hours with the ANC off.

Both sets of new earbuds work with the Jabra Sound+ app for enhanced features and customized sound. These include presets and Customizable music EQ, battery status, MyControls and Spatial Sound. They also have direct access to Siri and Google Assistant voice assistants. Jabra also offers free engraving.

https://www.jabra.com/bluetooth-headsets/jabra-elite-10-gen-2 $279, available in titanium black, gloss black, cocoa, and two new colors; denim and soft white