JBL Tour One M3 Smart TX Review: Versatile Bluetooth & Wired Headphones with Auracast Transmitter

Explore the JBL Tour One M3 Smart TX headphones offering flexible wireless and wired options with Auracast technology for seamless multi-listener audio sharing.

A New Wave of Audio Innovation Hits the Market

If you’re like me, someone who’s watched Apple’s AirPods reign supreme yet noticed their slow crawl towards adopting new audio tech, the JBL Tour One M3 Smart TX headphones might just be the breath of fresh air we’ve been waiting for. While Apple took years to bring high-resolution sound to Apple Music streaming—and only recently updated the AirPods Max to support lossless audio—JBL has jumped ahead, embracing innovative features like Auracast transmission technology.

Auracast is a game-changer: this Bluetooth feature lets one device broadcast audio to multiple headphones, hearing aids, or cochlear implants simultaneously. Imagine the possibilities—group listening on planes, shared audio in public spaces, or assistive tech for those with hearing challenges. At a recent event focused on accessibility tech, Apple expressed enthusiasm for Auracast but gave no timeline on its arrival in their products. Meanwhile, JBL’s M3 headphones are here ready to roll.

What Makes JBL Tour One M3 Smart TX Stand Out?

Priced around $550 (converted from approximately 44,000 rubles at historical exchange rates), the JBL Tour One M3 over-ears come in several colors and include a nifty extra piece: the Smart TX transmitter. This small device plugs into wired audio sources—think laptops or airplane entertainment systems—and beams audio wirelessly to the M3 headphones. What's cool is that it can send audio to multiple Auracast-compatible headphones nearby, turning your solitary listening into a communal experience.

If you’re browsing online, note that JBL’s previous M2 model is still widely available, so double-check you’re getting the M3 for these upgraded features.

The design is classic and comfy: big, soft ear cushions and an adjustable headband. Weighing in at 278 grams, these are lightweight compared to the clunkier 386 grams of AirPods Max, making them perfect for marathon listening sessions during long flights or workdays. The plastic shell feels lighter but less rugged than Apple’s premium build. Thankfully, JBL packs a hard carrying case to protect your new headphones during travel.

Battery life is also impressive: up to 70 hours on a single charge without noise cancellation, and around 40 hours with active noise cancellation (ANC) on. Plus, a quick 5-minute charge scores you an extra 5 hours of playback—ideal for last-minute airport power-ups.

Sound Quality That Keeps You Grooving

JBL lets you connect the M3 headphones via Bluetooth or a wired USB-C port on the right earcup, meeting both wireless and wired preferences. They support Apple AAC codec for Bluetooth, as well as Sony’s LDAC codec, which is great for high-res streaming, but surprisingly, they do not support aptX—a disappointment at this price point.

Listening to Ricky Martin’s “She Bangs” streaming lossless on Apple Music, the M3 delivers vibrant brass energy and smooth bass guitar that makes you want to sway along. The mix is rich with detail—a sprinkle of piano chimes, bells, and maracas adds sparkle. However, highs sometimes get a bit sharp, especially with vocal vibratos like in the classic ’60s hit “Hurt” by Timi Yuro, where the tremolo can sound a bit brittle.

ANC works well enough to quiet the drone of an airplane engine’s low frequencies but struggles a bit with higher-frequency noises. Compared to pricier rivals like AirPods Max or Bose QuietComfort, the noise cancellation isn’t quite as effective, but it’s still solid for the price.

Custom Sound Tuning and Smart Connectivity

Using Bluetooth, you can personalize your sound with JBL’s 10-band equalizer in their companion app. There’s also a neat “Personi-fi” feature, which plays a series of tones at different frequencies to evaluate your hearing and tailor a sound profile just for you.

Switching over to the Smart TX transmitter unlocks even more convenience. Designed for wired audio sources like onboard entertainment systems or gym machines, the transmitter sends wireless audio to your M3 headphones or multiple Auracast-compatible devices nearby.

This little gadget sports a touchscreen LCD that lets you fine-tune volume, noise cancellation, and other settings. It includes two USB-C ports—one for power plus audio and another for power only—making it versatile for various devices. Inside the box, you’ll find 3.5mm audio and USB-C cables, plus a USB-A adapter, ensuring compatibility with many computers and gadgets. The screen even doubles as a small flashlight, handy for dim cabins during night flights.

Should You Buy the JBL Tour One M3 Smart TX?

Frequent travelers and remote workers who value long battery life and versatile connection options will find a lot to love here. While the noise cancellation might not match the absolute best in the business, the sound quality is excellent for Bluetooth headphones at this price tier.

And those Auracast capabilities? They set the JBL Tour One M3 apart in a crowded market. Sharing audio with friends or enhancing accessibility for hearing device users feels like a smart, forward-thinking step in headphone tech.

Auracast lets one device broadcast Bluetooth audio to multiple headphones or hearing aids, a boon for shared listening and accessibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is Auracast technology, and why does it matter?
  Auracast allows one audio source to stream Bluetooth sound to multiple headphones or hearing aids simultaneously, perfect for group listening or accessibility needs.
• Can I use JBL Tour One M3 headphones wired and wirelessly?
  Yes! You can connect via Bluetooth or plug a USB-C cable directly into the right earcup for wired listening.
• How long does the battery last with active noise cancellation on?
  The M3 offers about 40 hours of playback with ANC enabled, and up to 70 hours without it.
• Does the JBL M3 support aptX codec for high-quality Bluetooth audio?
  No, the M3 supports Apple AAC and Sony LDAC but does not support aptX.
• Is the Smart TX transmitter compatible with all devices?
  It supports many devices thanks to included 3.5mm, USB-C cables, and a USB-A adapter, working well with laptops, phones, and entertainment systems.

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