Jaybird Review: Tarah Wireless Sport Headphones

Reading Time: 5 minutes

Update: 10/28/2019 | Jaybird Review: Tarah Wireless Sport Headphones

About Jaybird

Jaybird is an Utah-based audio company specializing in equipment for running and outdoor sports and fitness. Jaybird launched their first wireless earbuds in 2006. Now they work with athletes to design the ultimate audio products that aim to improve performance and quality of life.

Jaybird Review: Tarah Wireless Sport Headphones

I was sent a pair of Tarah headphones to review on my blog. I’ve been contemplating buying a pair of headphones so that I can practice yoga outdoors while playing my favorite playlists. They shipped in a few days and were delivered to my home via UPS. I received the Black Metallic Finish color for this review.

The Tarah headphones were released a few weeks after their X4 model was debuted. The Tarah is considered an entry level wireless headphone that is more affordable yet does not compromise in sound quality and functionality.

The Tarah headphones were named after the group of Indigenous Tarahumara people of Chihuaha, Mexico, who are famous for their long-distance running. While they lack certain amenities that come with the X4 and Tarah Pro models, Tarah is still a reliable wireless headphone that you won’t be disappointed with.

What’s In The Box?

Here is a list of what came in my box (from left to right)

1.  Charging cradle with a USB-A cable (sealed in a ziplock bag)
2. Tarah Wireless Headphones
3. Speed Cinch (already affixed to the headphones)
4. Ear gels in three sizes (sealed in a ziplock bag)
5. Shirt clip
6. User manual (not pictured)

I ended up going with size 1 ear gels. They were snug and fit perfectly in my tiny ears. I tested the size 2 gels for 30 minutes before I determined they were too big for my ears, which caused some discomfort.

I set my headphone equalizer (EQ) settings via the Jaybird App. I tested all settings and determined Signature and Bring the Bass settings were my favorite. If you’re an audiophile, you also have the option of creating your own EQ settings. The Jaybird App also includes a digital user manual.

I then tested the earphones out with a 30-minute yoga session. I played a YouTube video and let the teacher lead me through a Vinyasa flow. The headphones never fell out and the sound quality was excellent. I only experienced lagging when I streamed music through the Jaybird App itself. Spotify and YouTube worked without any interruptions.

I can’t wait to take these babies outside!

Specs

Battery	6 hours of playback
Bluetooth	5.0, 2.4 GHz band / works with Bluetooth 2.1 enabled devices
Water Resistance	IPX7 – Waterproof and sweatproof. They’re perfect for wearing around rainy Seattle!
Weight	13.85 grams (without ear gels)
Released	September 2018
Wireless Range	10 m or 33 ft
Price	$99.99

Pros

IP Rating	The Tarah retain the rated water resistance of the more expensive X4 model.
Google Assistant Access	Double tapping play/pause calls up the Google Assistant.
Color Options	Three colorways: Black Metallic Flash, Nimbus Gray/Jade, and Solstice Blue-Glacier
Free Software	Jaybird offers a free App that allows you to set the equalizer (EQ), play member playlists and gauge the fitting of your earphones. I tried all settings while listening to my favorite genres (EDM/Dance, Pop, Hip Hop, and Indie)

Cons

A Proprietary Charger	The included charger is made for the Tarah headphones and does not work with anything else.
Battery Life	The Tarah is rated for 6 hours but only made it about 5.5 hours after my testing. I played music and listened to podcasts.
Price	The price tag is hefty for a simple wireless headphone set. I recommend buying these if you find them on sale. They are $30 cheaper than the X4 version. If the price point were lower, these would definitely be flying off the shelves.
Lack of Carrying Case	The lack of a carrying case bothered me. I tend to get lose stuff in my gym bag all the time. I wish there was a case to keep the cords from getting tangled and to easily transport my headphones from place to place. The X4 and Tarah Pro models offer a carrying pouch.

Should I Buy Jaybird Tarah Headphones?

If you’re looking for something for long-distance running (i.e. marathons), weekend-long camping trips, or if you don’t like the daily task of charging your headphones, the Tarah may not be for you.

You may want to look into a product that has a longer battery life. The Tarah Pro ($159.99) offers 14-hour battery life and X4 ($129.99) offers 8-hour battery life. I would invest in the Tarah Pro if I were outdoors or traveling often.

If you’re one to keep things charged while you sleep (like me), the Tarah headphones may be perfect for you. I charge while I sleep. In the morning I gather my belongings before running out the door.

The Tarah wireless headphones are perfect for my current routine. I would love to have something with more battery life for when I am traveling internationally (i.e. the Tarah Pro has 14-hours of battery life).

Ultimately, the Tarah is also much cheaper than its competitors, making them a wallet-friendly investment. Combined with the excellent sound quality, I approve of them!

Rating: 4.25 out of 5

Where to Buy Jaybird Tarah Headphones

Did you enjoy our Jaybird review of their Tarah headphones? They’re great and affordable. If you’re interested in buying them, we’ve listed official retailers below.

Buy Jaybird Tarah headphones directly from Jaybird for only $99.99. Jaybird offers FREE shipping and a 30-day satisfaction guarantee if they do not meet your standards. You can also buy the Tarah Pro and X4 models here.

Jaybird products are also sold at these other retailers:

• Amazon
• Best Buy
• Google Store – Good to know the Tarah design is Google approved!

I received the Tarah headphones for this Jaybird review. All content and opinions expressed here are my own and always 100% honest.

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