JBL’s 2023 soundbars present with Dolby Atmos on all five models, three with detachable rear surround speakers, and four have a wireless sub.
It’s an exciting time for fans of soundbars – and really, who isn’t? – with JBL making Dolby Atmos the standard on their range.
Of the five new models entering the fray, top of the line is the Bar 1300X, an 11.1.4-channel speaker capable of pumping out 1170W. A lot of other bars are going to need more sugar on their cereal to match that.
If you want a second immersive audio option to Atmos, you have DTS:X on hand, all powered by six upfiring drivers. Then Harman’s MultiBeam tech steps in to enhance the spatial sound.
To take full advantage of all this, detach the end speakers and satellite them wirelessly behind you for a surround experience that will put you right in the moment – the 12″ subwoofer will also help with that.
Still on a mission to turn your home into a cinema, the Bar 1000 and Bar 700 offer detachable speakers, with the 1000 offering Atmos in a 7.1.4-channel setup and four upfiring drivers, and the 700 in a 5.1.2-channel with two upfiring drivers.
Another difference between these two – while both have 10″ subwoofers – is that the Bar 1000 packs 800W and offers MultiBeam to help immerse you in the audio experience, while the 620W 700 doesn’t.
The Bar 500 does pack it though, and despite lacking upfiring drivers it still offers the Dolby Atmos love and a 10″ sub.
Last, but definitely not least, the Bar 300 is an all-in-one job with integrated subwoofers.
No matter which is your final choice, you’ll have the benefit of PureVoice to optimise audio for clear dialogue even when they’re up against loud sound effects.
The range also all roll with WiFi connectivity, JBL One app support and EQ settings you can customise. To make your life even easier, they can all be voice-controlled via Alexa, Google Assistant or Siri, and all serve up AirPlay 2, Alexa Multi-Room Music (MRM) and Chromecast built-in.
