JBL introduced its newest products in the home audio space during a glitzy rooftop launch party atop the famed Roosevelt Hotel in Hollywood. Emphasis was placed on a new line of reasonably priced AV receivers and speakers, aimed at consumers who might otherwise be put off by the complexity of conventional home theater systems. For those wishing to improve their home theater experience without going over budget, this new lineup—which includes the Stage 2 series of speakers and the MA (Modern Audio) family of AV receivers—aims to provide a simple and affordable option.
A break from the traditional method of assembling a home theater system by combining parts from different brands is the MA series. Rather than focusing on complexity and user-friendliness, JBL has designed these parts to function as a seamless whole. The “Espresso” and “Latte” finishes on the products are matched, continuing this strategy to create a unified appearance that works well with a range of home décor styles. JBL wants to make it simpler for people, especially younger audiences who might currently rely on soundbars, to discover and enjoy the advantages of a complete home theater system. To that end, the company has created this line, which combines high-quality sound with contemporary features and ease of use.
In order to accommodate a variety of needs and budgets, the five new AV receivers in the MA series each have varying features and pricing points. A variety of sophisticated technologies, including 4K and 8K resolution, HDMI 2.1, Dolby Audio, and DTS, are supported by the receivers, which range in price from $400 to $1,600. More advanced features, including as DTS and Dolby Atmos, are available to consumers as they proceed up the range.
support for Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HDR10+, as well as passthrough capabilities. Users can choose a model that best suits their audio needs and room size among these receivers because their power output ranges from 60 to 140 watts per channel.
The top-of-the-line models in the MA series are the “HP” (High Performance) versions, which include the 7.2-channel JBL MA7100HP, priced at $1,200, and the flagship 9.2-channel JBL MA9100HP, available for $1,600. These high-performance models feature large, bright color LED screens and can be upgraded with Dirac’s Live calibration software. This option provides users with the ability to fine-tune the sound of their home theater system, ensuring that it meets their specific preferences and adapts to the acoustics of their room.
A significant feature of the MA series is the inclusion of the EZ Set EQ mobile app, which simplifies the system calibration process. This app is designed to make it easier for users to set up their home theater system and achieve optimal sound quality without requiring extensive technical knowledge or expertise. Additionally, the MA receivers are compatible with SmartThings, allowing for integration with other Internet of Things (IoT) devices to create automated routines that enhance convenience. Other modern features available on these receivers include support for Apple AirPlay, Google Cast, Bluetooth, and Spotify Connect, which facilitate seamless streaming of music and other audio content from various devices.
Complementing the MA receivers are the Stage 2 series of home theater speakers, which offer a variety of models to suit different setups and preferences. The Stage 2 series includes floor-standing speakers, bookshelf speakers, a center channel speaker, Dolby Atmos-enabled height modules, and subwoofers. The floor-standing models are the JBL Stage 260F and 280F, priced at $500 and $600 per pair, respectively. For those who prefer bookshelf speakers, the Stage 240B and 250B are available, with prices set at $300 and $400 per pair, respectively. The center channel speaker, the JBL Stage 245C, is offered at $400, and the Dolby Atmos-enabled height modules, the JBL Stage 240H, are priced at $300 per pair.
The JBL Stage 200P, with a 10-inch driver and 300 watts of power, and the JBL Stage 220P, with a 12-inch speaker and 500 watts of power, with a price tag of $600, are the two subwoofer alternatives offered by the Stage 2 series to finish the home theater setup. Any home theater system would benefit from these subwoofers because of their ability to produce strong bass and improve the entire audio experience.
On July 18, JBL’s website will begin to offer the new MA and Stage 2 series devices. In order to appeal to a wide audience that may have previously thought home theater systems were too complicated or pricey, JBL hopes to make high-quality home theater audio more approachable and user-friendly with this introduction. With a single system that combines functionality and style with contemporary features, JBL aims to draw customers looking for a simple and efficient solution to improve their home theater experience. With regard to meeting the changing demands and tastes of modern consumers, JBL is committed to offering creative solutions, as evidenced by this new assortment.
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