Avantree SoundJet R1 – Pack of 5 Airplane Bluetooth Adapters for Headphones
Product description
What it is and what it solves
The Avantree SoundJet R1 is a Bluetooth audio transmitter designed to work with existing airline headphone jacks. It aims to let you listen wirelessly on Bluetooth headphones or AirPods while in-flight. This pack includes 5 colour options, so you can mix and match with your devices.
How it works
The transmitter uses a 3.5 mm AUX connection and a dual-prong airplane adapter to plug into the seat’s entertainment system. It sends audio from the in-flight screen to your Bluetooth headphones. Note that it is intended to transmit to headphones and does not receive audio from other devices.
Battery life and charging
Avantree claims up to 25 hours of non-stop wireless audio, which is useful for long flights. It supports USB-C charging to help keep entertainment going without frequent interruptions.
Audio quality and compatibility
Powered by a Qualcomm Bluetooth chipset with aptX Adaptive and aptX HD, the SoundJet R1 targets higher quality wireless sound for movies, music, and shows. On paper, this can result in more stable connections and better audio when paired with compatible devices. However, you’ll need to ensure your headphones are in pairing mode for the initial connection.
When it fits best
If you travel regularly on long-haul flights and want a compact way to use your own wireless headphones, this set could be practical. The five-colour option helps you identify which unit belongs to which device, or simply adds variety.
What it might miss or limitations to consider
It’s not designed for TVs, phones, or instruments, and it does not function as a receiver. If you need a device that also receives audio, this won’t be suitable. Also, if you prefer a single unit for personal use rather than a pack, the Pack of 5 may feel excessive.
Practical usage example
Imagine boarding a long international flight. You plug the SoundJet R1 into the seat’s headphone jack, put your AirPods in pairing mode, and enjoy quiet, wireless audio without disturbing neighbours. The USB-C charging port means you’re less likely to run out of power mid-journey.
What to check before buying
Confirm that you mainly need a transmitter for the in-flight entertainment system and that your headphones support Bluetooth pairing. Also, ensure you’re comfortable using a 3.5 mm AUX connection rather than any wireless receiving feature.
FAQ
- Can I use it with any Bluetooth headset? In principle yes, provided the headset is in pairing mode and compatible with aptX Adaptive/HD.
- Does it receive audio from a device? No, it is designed to send audio to Bluetooth headphones only.
- How is the battery life in real use? The claim is up to 25 hours, real-world performance depends on volume and codec support.
Is it worth it?
Worth considering if you prioritise staying wired to in-flight systems while using your own wireless headphones and you travel long distances. If you rarely travel by air or don’t need a dedicated pack of multiple units, you may prefer a single unit for personal use.