JBL Soundgear Frames review

The idea of wearable tech is one that's grown over the years, with each subsequent item released pushing the boundaries of what's fashionable and what's practical.

With summer coming up, JBL's push is the JBL Soundgear Audio Glasses - something that mixes both the best for your ears and also your eyes. Equipped with speakers on both of the arms, the audio glasses represent something that's more personal for you, but something which allows you to appreciate your surroundings as well.

Making it a piece of kit that's enjoyed on the go, these audio glasses work effectively on an 8 hour battery, with a short charge giving a few hours of pleasure as well. A simple cable charges both of them, but it's highly advised to do this before you head out.

Cleverly, the glasses turn themselves off and on when you fold in the arms, so there's no accidentally leaving them on to drain the power. But in truth, the arms could do with being a little tighter on the screws, given how easily they close on you.

As such the sound is a little tinny if you like your bass elements, but generally, the audio performs well given the size of the speaker and the positioning near your ears. Everything's customisable as usual via the JBL app, meaning you can get the best of what you need.

In terms of the frame - it's either rounded or square and while the lenses work well to block the UV and look like a pair of RayBans in parts, those who wear glasses and not contacts may find themselves having to fork out for new lenses to incorporate into the frames, something which will bump up the price obviously and may be an option to see some avoid buying them. 

It's not recommended they be worn over glasses as the speakers don't measure up in terms of sound delivery and don't give you the optimaal experience you need for them. While this is not JBL's fault in a mass market, and there is the chance to adapt, it is one thing that's possibly going to prevent people from investing in them.

Ultimately though, with good solid sound from music and decent call quality as well, thanks to a lightweight feel, these audio glasses, with their lower end pricing, mark a good sounding off point for trying out something new. 

With summer coming up, there's likely to be nothing better than chilling in the garden, sunnies on, enjoying sounds without the hindrance of in-ear buds.

A pair of JBL Soundgear Frames were provided for the purposes of this review.