JBL Modern Audio event

JBL is targeting Gen Zers with their first ever AV receivers and a new line of speakers. The JBL Modern Audio (MA) AV Receivers and Stage 2 loudspeakers promise a “far better sound experience than soundbars” but still at an affordable price point says Jim Garrett, Sr. Director, Product Strategy & Planning with HARMAN Luxury Audio Group, which owns JBL. Garrett joined representatives from Dolby Labs, Universal Music Group and other HARMAN staff to provide a demonstration of JBL’s new product line to media at Republic Records in New York City.

“In designing these new speakers and receivers we took a fresh approach by asking ‘why is Gen Z not getting into component audio’. The answer we found is that they often feel intimidated with the overly complex sea of options on the market. Our response was to develop a new line of audio components that offer great sound, but would be as simple to operate as a soundbar,” explained Garrett.

As a result, JBL took a decidedly simplistic approach to the design of their first ever AV receivers. Budding audiophiles can now put together a JBL component audio system for well under $1,000 U.S. In addition, JBL says there new MA AV receivers and Stage 2 loudspeakers are crafted to blend “seamlessly into modern home interiors, and refreshingly simple to install, connect, and upgrade.”

A Turnkey Home Theater Solution

JBL says they have worked to create a single branded solution engineered to operate in unity that effectively removes the need to figure out which components to combine, providing users the peace of mind that comes of knowing that everything they need is provided.

Utilizing the EZ Set EQ mobile app, users can calibrate the system to match their space in minutes, while the Wi-Fi-enabled AVRs feature “Works with SmartThings” integration, allowing users to create automated routines that control their other IoT devices with just one simple button press.

The system is compatible with a wide variety of audio platforms. Whether they want to connect their music from their mobile phone via Apple AirPlay or Chromecast, Bluetooth pairing, or streaming from Spotify, users can count on a smooth and seamless audio experience says JBL.

In addition to performance, Garrett added that both the MA AV receivers and Stage 2 loudspeakers were designed to appeal to the Gen Z lifestyle, both in the way they function and the way they look. Slim and sleek, with a “contemporary, playful design,” the entire range is designed to blend with modern interiors with two-color options of latte and espresso.

Another feature of the AV receiver line is that it is scalable, from users who just need a basic two-channel system to those looking to build a high-end home theater setup featuring 8K HDMI video, Dolby Atmos immersive sound and DTS:X.

How do they sound?

During the demonstration JBL staff began by playing a variety of audio tracks via Bluetooth on their entry level system consisting of the MA510 AV receiver and 250B bookshelf speakers (priced together at $999 U.S.). I was impressed with the overall sound quality, especially given the price. The speakers themselves had a neutral sound signature, but with just a touch of warmth. These are speakers that I expect could easily be played for hours without fatiguing the listener. The MA510 AV receiver, although rated at just 75W, provided impressive dynamics and impressive bass to the speakers during all the tracks played.

JBL also showed off the top of the line MA9100HP receiver, which includes LED underglow options and their 280F floor-standing speakers (priced together at $2,800 U.S.) This system provided a true high-end audio experience with a deep engaging soundstage and thunderous, but controlled bass, which is guaranteed to get the Gen X crowd of their couches and onto their feet.

JBL Home Theater Line-Up and Pricing (all pricing in U.S. dollars)

The JBL MA AV Receivers:

• 60W JBL MA310 5.2-channel 4K AV Receiver ($399)
• 75W JBL MA510 5.2-channel 8K AV Receiver ($599)
• 110W MA710 ($799)
• 125W MA7100HP 7.2-channel 8K AV Receiver ($1199)
• 140W JBL MA9100HP, with either 5.1, 7.1, or 9.1 channels, Dolby Audio and DTS or Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support, low noise Class D amplification, and broad compatibility ($1,599)

JBL Stage 2 Loudspeakers:

• 260F ($999 per pair) and 280F ($1,199 per pair), floor-standing models
• 250B ($399.99 per pair) and 250B ($399.99 per pair), bookshelf models with separate floor stands
• 245C Center Channel speaker ($449 each)
• 240H Dolby Atmos enabled height module ($499.99 per pair)
• 200P and 220P Subwoofers ($499 and $599)