Tech Made Simple

Hot Topics: How to Fix Bluetooth Pairing Problems | Complete Guide to Facebook Privacy | How to Block Spam Calls | Snapchat Symbol Meaning

We may earn commissions when you buy from links on our site. Why you can trust us.

author photo

Cool, Colorful and Comfortable: The JBL / Roxy Reference 430 Headphones

by Tobey Grumet Segal on August 31, 2009

JBL / Roxy Reference 430 headphonesHeadphones have taken a turn for the more fashionable with companies like Skullcandy and Monster (with Beats by Dr. Dre) making this accessory more palatable. For the ladies, though, it’s never really clicked. That’s why I’m liking the JBL/Roxy collaboration on the new Reference 430 headphones. Cool, colorful and comfortable, these over-the-head headphones have given me a new appreciation for on-the-go music.

I admit I’m a little biased. Ever since puberty, I’ve loved the surfer-influenced fashion of Roxy. Though I may not be able to pull off the tiny bikinis or short shorts anymore, I still dig this label’s laidback and colorful designs. So when I pulled out the bright blue and green headphones from the package, I couldn’t wait to take a walk with my iPhone and my favorite tunes.

JBL / Roxy Reference 430 headphonesAs mentioned, they come in an over-the-head form factor. The ear cups are green and have the Roxy logo painted in black and white while the headband is blue with a funky ivy-type scrawling (they also come in pink and orange). Both are nicely padded in black felt and you can adjust the size via steel loops that slide along the band.

When I first put these headphones on and walked out of the house, I was transfixed. I can’t promise you high-end audio, but I can promise you an above average listening experience—both in comfort and sound.

The ear cups felt nice and the headphones didn’t give me a headache like some of my over-the-head hair accessories do. I had to adjust the headphones to the smallest setting, but once that was done, they fit nicely.

JBL did a nice job with sound balance and left out any distortion. Though other reviewers haven’t been impressed by the bass (saying it is underwhelming), I had no problems with it.

I tend to carry my headphones in a diaper bag or a trash-bag-size pocketbook, so I don’t have a problem with the size. But I can see how some gals might want something that folds up and can be more easily stowed (the ear cups do rotate, but it doesn’t change the basic form factor).

JBL/Roxy Reference 430 headphones with caseA pretty nylon carrying case is included in the $70 price tag, which I always have on hand to protect them from the likes of a half-eaten lollipop or loose baby wipes. The headphones don't feel solid, which makes me wonder how well they’ll hold up in the future.

All in all, I was pleased with this product. I think the marriage of style and function is a happy one and it’s a good purchase for everyday listeners who want to get a little more oomph from their portable music.


JBL/Roxy Reference 430 headphonesJBL / Roxy Reference 430 Headphones
Buy Now


Discussion loading

gravatar

From Deanna on September 02, 2009 :: 10:08 am


These are so cute. I love the orange and pink combo.

Reply

Home | About | Meet the Team | Contact Us
Media Kit | Newsletter Sponsorships | Licensing & Permissions
Accessibility Statement
Terms of Use | Privacy & Cookie Policy

Techlicious participates in affiliate programs, including the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, which provide a small commission from some, but not all, of the "click-thru to buy" links contained in our articles. These click-thru links are determined after the article has been written, based on price and product availability — the commissions do not impact our choice of recommended product, nor the price you pay. When you use these links, you help support our ongoing editorial mission to provide you with the best product recommendations.

© Techlicious LLC.