If you need reliable over-ear headphones that won't exceed your $150 budget, you definitely shouldn't go for the Sony WH-1000XM5. However, one model that might fit your budget quite well is the JBL Live 660NC. They usually cost almost $200, but you can get them now on Amazon with 30% off.
The JBL option may not be at the best price right now, but you won't find them at lower prices at Best Buy or Walmart. In other words, this is a great opportunity to get a bargain on your next headset. Who doesn't want that? Undoubtedly, these wireless headphones can't compete with the best in their class, including Sony's flagship model. But they're reliable, comfortable, and offer good sound quality for their price. What more could you want?
The headphones feature ANC, which works admirably but isn't top-notch. Still, the Live 660NC should dampen the rumble of buses while driving to a much more tolerable level. They also feature Ambient Aware mode if you want to stay in tune with your surroundings.
The TalkThru feature is a nice addition here. It reduces music volume and amplifies ambient noise so you can talk to others without taking your headphones off.
Similar to most non-premium models, the Live 660NC offers slightly enhanced bass frequencies. That's not necessarily a disadvantage, especially if you're a fan of rap, hip-hop, or electronic music. However, if you prefer a flat and balanced sound, you may want to tweak the sound with an equalizer.
Add to that the long battery life of up to 50 hours without ANC or 40 hours with the special function activated, and you have a pretty good option in your hands. By the way, they also support fast charging, so you can enjoy up to four hours of uninterrupted music with a 10-minute charge.
Ultimately, they may not be the best wireless headphones on the market, but the JBL Live 660NC are no disappointment. And with the successor, the Live 770NC, currently on sale at full price, the older model becomes even more attractive at 30% off its regular price.