JBL Quantum Stream Wireless: One Minute Review
If you're a content creator who needs a portable microphone for a convention, or even just to make videos on the go, you can't go wrong with the JBL Quantum Stream Wireless. This pocket-sized lapel microphone comes with a handy charging case, much like a pair of wireless headphones, and easily works with your phone right out of the box. Simply insert the included Lightning or USB-C dongle and you're ready to go.
I was impressed with the performance during my testing and found that the JBL Quantum Stream Wireless delivers clear sound even in fairly noisy environments, especially when combined with the noise cancellation capabilities of the compatible JBL Headphones mobile app. The manufacturer touts a 24-hour battery life, with six hours from the microphone and another 18 from its charging case, and this figure was pretty accurate – giving you more than enough power for an entire day.
Add to that some more useful features, like the built-in microphone mute button, and you have a very solid overall package. My only complaint would be that the included windscreen, useful for outdoor filming, is a bit fiddly and can be quite difficult to install securely.
Potential buyers should also weigh whether they really need a lavalier microphone. Performance is good for a small, portable device, but you'll still get superior sound quality on many of the best microphones for streaming – what would be a better option if you want to record at home.
JBL Quantum Stream Wireless: Price and availability
- $99.95 / £89.99
- USB-C and Lightning variants
- Launched in March 2024
The JBL Quantum Stream Wireless is available for $99.95 / £89.99 directly from JBL and from retailers such as Amazon. This may seem like a good amount to spend on any microphone, but it means this model sits neatly between super budget offerings and more premium portable microphones from companies like Rode and DJI. The DJI Mic, for example, features two transmitters and similar storage space, but is about twice the price of the JBL Quantum Stream Wireless.
JBL Quantum Stream Wireless: Specifications
| Price | $99.95 / £89.99 |
| polar pattern | Omnidirectional |
| Sampling Rate | 48 kHz (16 kHz ON ON) |
| bit rate | 16 bit |
| Frequency range | 20Hz – 20kHz |
| Impedance | N/A |
JBL Quantum Stream Wireless: Design and features
- Portable size
- LED power indicators
- Good app
The top of the case opens like a lid on a hinge, revealing slots for the clip-on microphone and dongle. Both are secured by magnets, although the microphone alone also has two metal contacts that allow it to charge while in the case. Removing the microphone allows you to get a good look at its design, which is constructed primarily of plastic. The front has a smooth, ridged pattern, with a small JBL logo, while the back has a generously sized clip for attaching to clothing.
On the side of the microphone there is a small button that can be used to quickly mute it. There is also a bright LED indicator, which glows red when the microphone is disabled. Otherwise, it flashes white before turning a solid color when paired with your phone.
There's very little to report about the dongle itself, which is rectangular and quite light and thin. It connects to your phone via a Type-C or Lightning connector depending on which model you choose, but it also has its own USB port for direct charging. This is a great little feature and means you don't have to worry about not being able to charge your phone while the microphone is in use.
Most of the microphone's main functions are accessed through the JBL Headphones mobile app or the JBL Quantum Engine PC software, both of which are compatible with this product. Given the clear focus on portability, I mainly relied on the app which offers the option to check battery levels, alter microphone gain, enable AI noise cancellation, switch between some preset effects and modify power settings like LED brightness and automatic shutdown. .
The software is nothing revolutionary, but it has a decent selection of options and, more importantly, is very responsive and well presented.
JBL Quantum Stream Wireless: Performance
- Effective noise cancellation
- Works well at events
- Great battery life
It's hard to fault the performance of the JBL Quantum Stream Wireless. I tested the product primarily at events, including the crowded Gamescom halls, and found that it did a great job of eliminating background noise to deliver perfectly understandable recordings despite its small size.
There is a noticeable drop in quality when things get quite loud, and my voice often takes on a slightly robotic tone in particularly large crowds, but that was still preferable to the frankly incomprehensible recordings produced by my phone's microphone in the same crowds. areas. The same applies to its performance outdoors, especially in strong wind or vehicles. Expect a more natural sound when you go out on a calm day.
However, it's a bit unfortunate that the included windshield is so complicated. It clips onto the top of the microphone through two small holes, but is quite difficult to align. I had a hard time doing it in low lighting and often wasn't sure if it was actually connected. This isn't a deal breaker, but it's worth keeping in mind if you intend to use the windshield a lot.
In terms of battery life, the JBL Quantum Stream Wireless is more than capable. I only have to charge the case every other day with semi-frequent use and the microphone never goes off during a recording session. Unless you want to use it on for hours and hours at a time, you won't have any problems here.
Should I buy the JBL Quantum Stream Wireless?
Buy it if…
Don't buy it if…
Also consider…
If you don't like the JBL Quantum Stream Wireless, you can consider these two best microphones for gaming and content creation.
| Row 0 – Cell 0 | JBL Quantum Stream Wireless | DJI Microphone 2 | JBL Quantum Stream Studio |
| Price | $99.95 / £89.99 | $349 / £309 | $149.99 / £129.99 / AU$199.95 |
| polar pattern | Omnidirectional | Omnidirectional | Cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional, stereo. |
| Sampling Rate | 48 kHz (16 kHz ON ON) | 48 kilocycles | 44.1kHz/48kHz/96kHz/192kHz |
| bit rate | 16 bit | 24 bit | 16/24 bit |
| Frequency range | 20Hz – 20kHz | 50Hz – 20kHz | 50Hz – 16kHz |
| Impedance | N/A | N/A | 16 / 32 ohms |
How I tested the JBL Quantum Stream Wireless
- Tested for a few months.
- Used in various events.
- Tested indoors and outdoors.
I tested the JBL Quantum Stream Wireless over a period of about five months with an iPhone 15 Plus. During that time I took the microphone to various gaming events and tested it in a wide variety of conditions, both indoors and outdoors. I was careful to evaluate its performance and test all the features available in its mobile app.
I compared it to several desktop microphones like the Asus ROG Carynx, SteelSeries Alias, SteelSeries Alias Pro, and more.
First reviewed October 2024.