JBL just released a firmware update to change the 'sound curve' of the Tour One M3—can software actually fix the gap between them and Sony/Bose?
I just read that JBL is rolling out a firmware update for the Tour One M3 that fundamentally alters its 'sound curve' to make the audio clearer and more balanced. They're claiming this will make them 'truer to the artist' and help them close the gap with rivals like Sony and Bowers & Wilkins.
While I appreciate a brand supporting their hardware post-purchase, I'm skeptical about how much a DSP tweak can actually do if the driver hardware is the limiting factor. Has anyone updated their Tour One M3s yet? Does it actually feel like a 'new benchmark' or is this just marketing speak for a slight EQ shift?
I've spent the last few years bouncing between the Bose QC series and various JBL flagships. The problem with JBL has always been that they target the 'consumer' sound—heavy bass and boosted highs—which sounds great for EDM but kills vocals in jazz or classical. If this update actually shifts the target response toward a more neutral Harman curve, it could make these viable for a wider range of genres. However, the real test is whether this introduces any clipping or distortion at higher volumes since they're essentially applying a permanent EQ layer across the board.
Just updated mine ten minutes ago. To be honest, the bass feels a bit more controlled now, but it's not a night-and-day difference. It definitely removes some of that 'muddy' JBL signature in the mid-bass, but I still don't think it beats the XM5s in terms of overall detail.
I actually prefer the old sound. The new update makes them feel a bit 'thin' compared to before. I miss that punchy JBL bass.
As someone who does a lot of critical listening, I think people underestimate what a DSP (Digital Signal Processor) can do. Most modern wireless headphones are essentially 'corrected' by software anyway to hide the physical flaws of the drivers. By refining the sound curve, JBL is basically updating the translation layer between the file and the speaker. It won't turn a budget driver into a B&W Diamond, but it can absolutely fix annoying peaks in the treble or a bloated low-end that makes everything sound veiled.
Typical marketing fluff. You can't 'firmware update' your way into better hardware. If the drivers aren't capable of that level of precision, you're just digitally limiting certain frequencies to mimic a flatter response.
Wait, so my old headphones get 'better' just by downloading an app update? I wish my life worked like that lol.
Another day, another firmware update that probably breaks the battery life. I'll wait a week to see if anyone complains about the battery draining faster.
Still not buying these over the Sony WH-1000XM5. The ANC is just in a different league.
Does this update apply to the older Tour One models or just the M3?