JBL has updated its two flagship headphone models. The brand has refined the JBL Curve on the Tour One M3 and modernized the interface of the Tour Pro 3 and its Smart TX control unit. Both models now feature a new green finish with copper accents.
JBL isn't simply offering a cosmetic refresh here, although the new green color with copper accents is certainly a welcome addition. The brand is tackling two key aspects of its premium products: the sound signature and everyday usability. On the Tour One M3 (click to read the full review by AVcesar), the JBL Curve has been redesigned for greater naturalness and clarity. On the Tour Pro 3 (click to read the full review by AVcesar), the interface of both the main unit and the Smart TX box has been redesigned to simplify access to key functions. JBL Tour One M3: A sound curve refined by critical listening. The new JBL Curve on the Tour One M3 follows in the footsteps of the Harman curve, a well-known industry benchmark. However, JBL is aiming for a more natural sound. Specifically, this translates to a 3 to 5 dB gain in the 4-8 kHz range for improved clarity, and an approximately 2 dB attenuation in the lower midrange. To validate these changes, the brand first consulted audio experts and various representative listening panels, followed by independent validation from Force Technology's SenseLab. The message is clear: less showmanship, more control. Bass is said to be tighter. Midrange gains presence. Treble should be cleaner. The goal? To enjoy a reproduction more faithful to the artistic intent, with a more defined soundstage and clearer vocals. This JBL Curve will also be available as an OTA update for existing models. JBL Curve: A word from Carsten Olesen, President of Harman's Consumer Audio Division: "Listening habits have changed dramatically: with more powerful devices, higher-quality content, and smarter streaming technologies, listeners' ears are more demanding than ever. We are constantly looking to push the boundaries of sound performance and saw this moment as the perfect opportunity to refine the JBL Curve in our premium headphones. This new curve, first introduced on our flagship JBL Tour One M3, delivers the clearest and most natural listening experience we have ever created," says Carsten Olesen, President of Harman's Consumer Audio Division.
Smart Charging Case and Smart TX, an interface that gets straight to the point
On the Tour Pro 3 earphones, JBL tackles the usual Achilles' heel of feature-rich interfaces: overly cumbersome access to advanced settings. The new system of the charging/storage case, as well as the Smart TX (the latter is available in a bundle with the Tour One M3), blends horizontal and vertical menus. It relies on larger icons, modernized typography, and a clearer visual hierarchy. The expected result is simple: reduce the number of actions and make interactions with the case smoother. For advanced uses, particularly source management or Auracast streaming, the stakes are indeed high.
JBL Tour One M3 and JBL Tour Pro 3, why this color really matters££££
The new green finish shouldn't be reduced to a mere surface effect. JBL positions it within a very current market perspective, somewhere between British motorsport and contemporary luxury codes. The choice aims to create new value in a segment where visual identity is as important to some as specifications. This shade becomes the fourth option in the Tour range and reinforces the idea of a product designed to last in the premium world. For the brand, the strategy is clear: consolidate its signature sound, streamline use, and then broaden the scope of desire through design... This is often how benchmarks become firmly established.
JBL Curve and user interface updates will be deployed over the air (OTA) to all affected devices: • JBL Tour One M3, Firmware JBL Curve version 4.8.0: Available • JBL Tour Pro 3 Smart Charging Case, interface version 4.9.x: From April 30 • JBL Smart TX, interface version 7.x.0: Available As a reminder, the suggested retail prices are: JBL Tour Pro 3: €299.99 JBL Tour One M3: €349.99 JBL Tour One M3 with Smart TX: €399.99