Review: LG Tone Style HBS-SL5 Bluetooth Wireless Stereo Neckband Earbuds Tuned by Meridian Audio,Black, 2.3 – Enhanced design with rapid charging and improved battery life

Explore the latest LG Tone HBS SL5’s design, pricing, quick charging, app features and potential challenges... Read more

Specifications

Brand	LG
Model Name	HBS-SL5
Color	Black
Form Factor	In Ear
Connectivity Technology	Wireless

Introduction

Welcome, folks! Picture this: a sunny day, the unmistakable noise of poultry live from my yard and yet another tech-savvy gizmo competing for my attention. In today’s tech review session, we’re gonna delve into the LG Tone HBS SL5. This audio gadget has incited quite a bit of interest, not just in me, but also in a multitude of tech-maniacs.

Lend me your ears (pun intended) as I shed light on my overall impressions and give an unbiased user-tested review of this contraption. And, yes, please disregard the crowing rooster in the background. One might say he’s trying to give his own ‘cock-a-doodle-doo’ review.

Unveiling the LG tone HBS SL5: My Initial Impressions

At first glance, the LG Tone HBS SL5 creates a certain allure – one could peg it as a modern-day symbiosis of utility and aesthetics. It’s easy to see why this headset has gained such traction. So, does it manage to exceed expectations or does it fall short? Read on to find out.

The Power-Packed Trio: The New LG Tone Neck Band Style Headsets

Lifting the veil on an invigorating line-up, LG has unrolled not one, but three new immersive neck band style headsets. While my heart flutters in anticipation of all three, the focus of today’s review is on the modestly dubbed SL5, the first ‘entrant’ in this trio. Its companions, while perhaps holding more lucrative features, also come with a bulkier price tag. The SL5, on the other hand, is the economy variant with a palatable price point, showing LG has its finger on the pulse of its diverse consumer base.

As we submerge into the nitty-gritty, I’ll be describing its design, discussing its user-friendly features and talking about the pros and cons. But also, I’ll tentatively dip into uncharted waters – keep your ears open for that rooster. I may challenge some of the manufacturer’s claims based on my personal experience.

So, hold onto your earbuds and as I dive into this audio adventure of the LG Tone HBS SL5. Let’s see if it lives up to the hype or whether my rooster is the one who really knows best.

Design and Aesthetics

• SL5 has a new, streamlined neckband design
• Features retractable earbuds enhancing user’s comfort
• Lightweight, slim and uniquely charming

Stepping right into the aesthetics of this fresh out of the LG kitchen, the HBS SL5, my initial impressions of this gadget were heavily dictated by its design. Let’s break it down:

Taking a Closer Look: An Overview of the SL5 Design

The SL5 adopts a neckband style that LG has been known for, but with a twist. We’re talking about a slimmer, more streamlined design. It has this modern vibe combined with practical usability – a blend not easy to achieve.

Slim, Light, Unique: How LG breaks new ground with the SL5

Without a doubt, the HBS SL5 feels amazingly lightweight. Clad in a slightly sleek metallic finish, it brings a unique aesthetic touch that separates it from the crowd. It’s slim and understated, avoiding that bulky look that can be a deal-breaker for some. So, if you’re anything like me who leans more towards subtle sophistication over eye-catching bold, this could be a match.

Are Retractable Earbuds the Way to Go? Analyzing the New Design

One of my favorite parts of this headset that demands attention is its retractable earbuds. You can pull them out effortlessly and with just a single tug, they bounce back into their place. Neat, isn’t it? This feature, in my opinion, enhances the user’s comfort and adds a nice touch to functionality. However, I should also note that this might not sit well with everyone since retractable earbuds often mean additional maintenance. So take this aspect into consideration based on your lifestyle and preference.

Verdict: The SL5 brings a new, streamlined neckband design to the table, seeming perfect for those appreciating simple aesthetics. The retractable earbuds are a great addition, but more from a comfort-zone perspective and less so from a longevity standpoint. Being lightweight and slim, it has a unique charm, but the design may not be for everyone.

Price and Availability

• Base price of LG Tone HBS SL5 is $99.99
• Other sellers may offer significant discounts
• Aim for balanced deal considering cost and quality

In today’s review, let’s talk about the most crucial aspect, something near and dear to all our hearts—the cost and availability of the LG Tone HBS SL5.

Money Matters: Analyzing the Price tag of SL5

The price of this wireless headset is a pretty solid talking point by itself. As the least expensive variant amongst the trio that LG released, the SL5 comes with a base price tag of $99.99 on the official website.

This might be a bit steep for some, especially those who are looking for budget options, but hold on a second before you decide! Let’s consider all the high-end features it’s offering – from design aesthetics to the stress on light-weight comfort, and not to forget the newly added fast-charging feature.

Scoping Out Better Deals: Where to Find the Best Offers

If you’re budget-constrained and the default price looks a bit high, let me share an insider tip: try checking out other sellers. Trust me, it’s totally worth spending a bit of time doing some research. For instance, Amazon, eBay, or other online marketplaces often offer discounts that can sweeten the deal.

Speaking from personal experience, I got mine at a deal for just $69.99, which is far more reasonable than the $99.99 tag on the LG website. I’d suggest sticking to a convenient but practical budget, ideally not more than $70 to $80 for the SL5. That being said, the assurance of a brand new device versus a used one gives you a certain level of security, particularly concerning performance and longevity.

In conclusion, it’s all about patience and keeping a diligent eye on the prices across multiple platforms. Remember, the aim is to strike a balanced deal, combining cost-effectiveness with quality assurance. And there you have it folks – your guide to scoring the best deals on the LG Tone HBS SL5!

The All-Important Unboxing!

• SL5 headphones packaging meets middle-tier expectations.
• Includes standard accessories, changeable ear tips.
• Unboxing experience lacks ‘wow’ factor.

There’s something about unboxing a brand new gadget that gets the adrenaline pumping. Opening the box, possibly the first of many in the ownership journey, reveals a lot about the product’s quality and the thought process behind it. Let’s dive together into unboxing the SL5.

Here’s What’s in The Box: Unveiling the SL5 Accessories

Cutting through the well-sealed package, we have a clear, plastic box with the SL5 headphones displayed prominently at the top. The presentation instantly serves as a testament to LG’s commitment to its product’s design aesthetics.

Contained within the black box are the headphones themselves, plus a few standard accessories you’d expect with this class of headphone. It’s got the essentials, but there’s nothing out of the ordinary.

From the Ear Tips to Charging Cable: Exploring the Additional Pack-ins

Along with the headphones, the box includes additional ear tips and, of course, a charging cable. The ear tips offer customization options that ought to suit different ear sizes. It’s always an excellent inclusion for a comfortable, personalized fit. Regarding the charging cable, it’s fairly standard, nothing too fancy.

A noteworthy mention is the inclusion of a guide. Here’s a strong opinion, though – I’ve always found these guides to be rarely necessary . It’s easy to get by even without flipping through them, thanks to the availability of countless helpful online tutorials and reviews.

However, having the guide does add value. It eliminates guesswork and offers the reassurance of documented guidance in case you do encounter knotty moments.

The bottom line – The unboxing experience lacks the wow factor that certain premium headphones bring, but it meets expectations for the middle-tier headphone that the SL5 is. Also, though the accessory pack-ins are standard, the addition of changeable ear tips ought to be appreciated for the flexibility in fit they offer.

Key Features

• New micro USB charging port on LG Tone HBS SL5.
• Rapid Charge for fast, on-the-go charging.
• Battery life adequate but requires improvement.

As with buying any product, understanding its crucial features is key to making an informed purchase decision. Here’s what stands out about the LG Tone HBS SL5.

An Upgrade Worth Noting: The New Micro USB Charging Port

One of the most prominent changes in this headset is the new micro USB charging port. It’s a clear sign that LG is adapting to the modern user’s demands . If you’re like me, having that uniformity across all your devices is a convenience that cannot be understated.

The Rapid Charge Promise: A Look into Charging Improvements

The highlight for me though, has been the new headset’s impressive Rapid Charge. With just a five-minute charge, the SL5 promises to deliver around an hour to an hour and a half of runtime. That’s a game-changer if you’re often on the go and need that quick boost to get you through. I can’t emphasize enough how much this fast charging feature enhances the device’s overall usability .

Decoding Battery Life: Performance, Standby Time and More

Now, let’s talk about battery life. Is the SL5’s battery life extraordinary? Not exactly. It’s decent, but don’t expect any giant steps forward here. The standby time is fairly good, easily getting you through a day on a full charge if you’re not using it continually. However, if you’re constantly making calls or streaming music, expect anywhere from six to eight hours of battery life – a standard duration in my experience.

Conclusion

Overall, the key features of the SL5 paint a picture of a headset modishly geared to suit most of our current day-to-day needs, though there’s room for improvement, particularly regarding battery performance.

Clean Yet Complex Ergonomics: Where are all the Buttons?

• LG tone HBS SL5 has unique ergonomic design.
• Power, volume, and track control buttons are multi-purpose.
• Design reduces clutter, but may require adaptation.

Ever felt overwhelmed by a seemingly endless array of buttons on a gadget? To my surprise, the LG tone HBS SL5 showcased a neat and clutter-free design with a unique ergonomic structure. A welcome move indeed, but it did take a bit of time and effort for me to get familiarized with the new setup.

Power Button

For starters, let’s talk about the ‘main man’ here – the power button. Interestingly, this same button hosts a multitude of functionalities. A long press powers the headset on, and subsequently, off – a feature that I found to be quite intuitive and straightforward. Moreover, this multi-functional little gem also doubles up as a play, pause, answer, and end call button. While I applaud this minimalist design, I couldn’t ignore the slight inconvenience when getting used to the dual functionalities.

Volume Rockers and Track Control

Besides the power button, the volume rocker gets its dedicated spot as well, bundling the volume up and down controls. Surprisingly, LG has also thrown in forward and backward track controls into the mix. Moving along, another revelation was the conspicuous absence of that tiny switch inside the usual LG headsets. Now, all of these controls are conveniently located on the left side of the SL5, making them more accessible.

Charging Port

The charging port, another key component, finds its place neatly aligned with the other controls. As a user, I appreciated this smart design choice, particularly as it tended to reduce the clutter generally associated with multiple buttons and ports.

While the new setup does look clean and smart, I would like to stress here that seasoned users of previous LG Tone headsets may face a learning curve. The new design does take some getting used to, especially for those accustomed to the classic setup.

In my case, the initial adjustments were completely offset by the enhanced convenience of this neat and clutter-free design. Critically, however, your personal preferences in terms of a device’s ergonomics might differ from mine. Hence, I recommend trying out this headset for yourself to truly appreciate its unique, albeit slightly complex, ergonomic layout.

Comfort and Usability

• SL5 headset is extremely lightweight and flexible
• Can be tucked under the collar for convenience
• Features practical, retractable earbuds design

One of the essential focal points of any audio device review has to be the comfort and usability. Picking up the SL5 for the first time, I was pleasantly surprised. This headset somewhat revolutionizes the earbuds game – let’s take an in-depth dive into why.

Comfort and Flexibility: Rating the Neck Band Style

The weight distribution of the SL5 is definitely worth mentioning. It’s extremely lightweight , and I observed that its design made it incredibly flexible . When I wore it around the neck, it felt fairly simple, lightweight, and unobtrusive, to the extent that at one point, I completely forgot I had it on! This is a big selling point for those who, like me, like to go about their day without constantly being reminded that they’re wearing a device around their neck.

This was further enhanced by an interesting move I found myself making. During work hours, I would sometimes tuck the device under the collar of my polo shirt . It nestled well and I could still access the controls effortlessly. This adaptability adds an extra layer of practicality to its design.

The Advantage of Retractable Earbuds: Why it Works for Me

I was also pretty pleased with the retractable earbuds design. It’s quite similar to previous iterations used by LG, and personally, I think it works well. You pull out the earbuds and let them go, making them easy-to-use and versatile. This is definitely a step in the right direction in terms of usability. The earbuds, themselves, are comfortable to wear and provide a decent seal in the ear, which aids in delivering a better audio experience.

The earbuds’ retractable feature , is a refreshing take on design, particularly in terms of how it greatly reduces tangling concerns and makes it easy to manage the earbuds when not in use. Conversely, the cable might be a tad short for individuals with larger necks, but for me, it was perfect.

While the trendy design and comfort are sufficient to merit applause, it’s also important for potential customers to consider individual preferences and needs. Some may find the constant contact around the neck or the cable’s pull a bit irksome. That said, my experience with the SL5’s comfort and usability was overwhelmingly positive. It’s the sort of device that you can put on and forget about, knowing it will perform when duty calls!

Breaking Down the Tech

• LG Tone App unlocks full headset features
• Equalizer settings subtly improve sound quality
• Bluetooth 5.0 enhances connection speed and range

Understanding the ins and outs of the technology packed into the LG Tone HBS SL5 is crucial to appreciating the overall experience it offers. Let’s do a deep dive into the technical aspects that make this headset tick.

Getting the Setup Right: Using the LG Tone App

The first order of business after unboxing and charging the headset was downloading the LG Tone App. Don’t get me wrong, you don’t necessarily need it to use the headset, but if you want to unlock the full range of features, it’s worth the hassle. It’s also how you access the voice notifications and equalizer settings.

The Equalizer Settings: Managing Expectations on Sound Quality

Now, let’s talk about the equalizer settings. I found that toggling between the presets didn’t produce a drastic change in the sound quality. Yes, there was a difference, but it was subtle, not as transformative as some may hope. I believe that might leave a few bass lovers somewhat disappointed. So, while there’s a definite improvement in sound quality, just don’t expect earth-shattering bass from the SL5.

Making the Most of Bluetooth 5.0: Benefits for Streaming and Call Quality

One of the standout improvements in this new headset is the integration of Bluetooth 5.0. For the none-techie folks, this essentially means improved connection speed and range between the headphones and your device. And the proof came when I started streaming my favorite tracks and videos. The words ‘seamless’ and ‘lag-free’ would summarize my streaming experience well.

However, it’s critical to mention that the streaming quality, like many wireless devices, can be influenced by your surroundings, especially when in heavy traffic or crowded areas. But on the whole, Bluetooth 5.0 really brings the goods home in terms of ensuring a steady and reliable connection.

Welcome to the new age of wireless tech, it’s certainly leveling up, one headset at a time!

Evaluating Call Quality

• Evaluating call quality essential for clear conversation
• Low volume issue observed between different operating systems
• Android to Android pairings deliver clear, quality calls

Now here’s a segment that we can’t afford to miss, evaluating the all-important call quality! As someone who values clear, crackle-free conversation, I shuffled through multiple call scenarios, pushing the LG Tone HBS SL5 to its limits with both iPhones and Android devices.

Addressing the Low Volume Issue

Action speaks louder than words, hence, I decided to experience it first hand. Here’s what I found out: picture an iPhone 8 Plus user at one end of the line and me, with my Samsung Note 10 Plus and LG Tone HBS SL5, at the other. An unexpected, but undeniable low volume issue was observed. I was audible, yes, but my voice wasn’t crystal clear to the person on the other side; they mentioned they were straining to make out some of my words.

On the other hand, pairing the LG Tone HBS SL5 with an Android device, a Samsung S9 Plus, seemed to drastically improve the call quality. No more distress signals of low audibility from the iPhone user. It was smooth sailing all the way.

Android vs. iPhone: An Unexpected Showdown?

It’s almost like we have stumbled upon an unexpected but astonishing fact in this call quality puzzle: The operating system of the phones we are using might play a significant role in the call quality.

• Android to Android: These pairings posed zero issues, serving up clear, quality calls.
• Android to iPhone (or vice versa): Some improvement are needed here. There was a marked low volume issue when communicating between these two different operating systems.

But remember, these observations might not hold true for everyone. The call quality could also depend on factors like the price tier of your phone, network quality, and even the specific phone model.

So, just keep this hiccup in mind when counting on your LG Tone HBS SL5 for super critical conversations especially with different operating systems. In my opinion, this is an area where LG can, and should, make strides in improving moving forward.

Final Verdict

In the world of headphones, it can be overwhelming deciding which ones to choose. As I used the LG Tone HBS SL5, I aimed to explore if the hype around this headset was merited or not. In the end, I’ve come to a balanced conclusion that weighs both its perks and downturns. Below I present my final thoughts on the LG Tone HBS SL5.

Design

I must admit, the unique, slim neckband design was something that had me intrigued from the get-go. The lightweight design inflicted an almost forgettable presence around my neck, providing a level of comfort I found agreeable for everyday use. If lightweight and compact is what you’re looking for, then the design of the SL5 will not disappoint.

The Sound and Call Quality

Sound quality was a bit of a mixed bag for me. The device serves up decent sound quality for day-to-day use, particularly with Bluetooth 5.0 enhancing the streaming experience, which I can definitely appreciate. However, the equalizer settings weren’t as fluid or transformative as I had hoped, leaving the overall sound experience to be satisfactory but not mind-blowing.

As for call quality, it varied depending on the devices in use. The low volume issue didn’t seem universal and appeared to be more contingent on the combination of devices used during a call

Battery Performance and Charging

Coming down to battery performance, I experienced around six to eight hours of use, which I’d say is decent but not grand if you’re a heavy user. On the other hand, the rapid charge feature and improved charging port are significant enhancements, making up for the fair battery life.

Value for Money

Finally, pricing: this is where I found myself questioning the true value of the SL5. My suggestion would be not to rush into purchasing this at the full retail price. Look around or wait for a deal before diving in, especially since I found the headset to hover around the ‘good’ but not ‘excellent’ spectrum of quality.

In conclusion, the LG Tone HBS SL5 comes with some noteworthy improvements and comfortable design, making it a viable option if you’re in the market for a lightweight headset. But, it might not be the best fit if you’re expecting groundbreaking audio or a strong battery life.

Should you buy the LG Tone Style HBS-SL5 Bluetooth Wireless Stereo Neckband Earbuds Tuned by Meridian Audio,Black, 2.3?

Buy it if…

You Prefer Lightweight and Comfortable Design

The slim, lightweight design of the SL5, along with its retractable earbuds, offers a seamless fit that you’ll easily forget you’re wearing it. It’s ideal for those who value comfort during long hours of use.

You Appreciate Quick Charging and Good Battery Life

The SL5 comes with a rapid charge feature, giving you ample usage time after a mere few minutes of charging. Also, an improved battery life provides long hours of uninterrupted use.

You Value Sound Quality and Seamless Streaming

The SL5 may not offer a drastic sound difference but shows an upgrade in sound quality. Coupled with Bluetooth 5.0 technology, it assures a lag-free streaming experience.

Don’t buy it if…

You’re Looking for Drastic Changes in Sound Quality

Despite the SL5 offering improved sound quality, it doesn’t provide a significant difference when shifting between equalizer settings.

Your Call Activities Involve Different Operating Systems

If your calls frequently involve a mix of Android and iPhone users, you might face occasional low volume issues.

You’re Tight on Budget

While the SL5 is the least expensive among its tier, it still carries a substantial price tag. So, if you’re strictly budget-constrained, it might be worth exploring other options.

FAQ

What new products has LG released?

LG has released three new LG Tone Neck Band Style Headsets and a set of true Allis earbuds.

What specific features does the LG Tone HBS SL5 headset have?

The LG Tone SL5 headset has a unique slim, lightweight design with retractable earbuds and a neck band style. It also features improved charging with a new micro USB port and rapid charge capabilities.

How is the sound quality of the LG Tone HBS SL5 headphones?

The sound quality shows slight improvement with Bluetooth 5.0 ensuring no lag in streaming, albeit differences in equalizer settings are not quite noticeable.

What is the battery life of the LG tone HBS SL5 headset?

The LG Tone HBS SL5 offers a battery life of 6-8 hours with constant use, and more than a day on standby. The battery life can vary depending on the usage.

What controls does the LG tone HBS SL5 headset offer?

The controls for the LG Tone HBS SL5 are located on the left side of the headset and include a power button, play/pause button, volume rocker, forward and backward track buttons and a charging port.

What do I get in the box with the LG tone HBS SL5?

The box contains the LG Tone HBS SL5 headset, a set of additional ear tips, a user guide, and a charging cable.

What is the price range of the LG tone HBS SL5?

The price for the LG Tone HBS SL5 could vary. On the official website, it is listed as $99.99, but it’s possible to find better deals, around $69.99 on other selling platforms.

Do you need the LG Tone App to use the headset?

No, you don’t need the LG Tone App to use the headset. However, using the app will provide additional features like text to voice and equalizer settings control.

Does the device’s operating system affect the call quality?

Based on own experience, it seems that differences in call quality may occur due to differences in the phone’s operating systems (e.g. between Android and IOS).

Are there any color variations of the LG tone HBS SL5 headset?

The LG Tone HBS SL5 comes in a gunmetal grey finish, though it may appear as a dark black color on some cameras.