JBL has added another sound bar to its ‘Bar Series’ which it says will “bring the audio experience of a movie theater” to living rooms. Known as the JBL Bar 9.1, the new $1k set includes wireless surround, Dolby Atmos audio and streaming support via Google Chromecast and Apple Airplay 2.
According to JBL, Bar 9.1 is the first of the company’s sound bars to include Dolby Atmos with four upward-facing drivers using room reflections to bounce audio back to the listening position, and two battery-powered detachable, wireless rear speakers also pushing sounds to the ceiling for immersive audio playback. JBL claims 820 watts of total system power and there is a 10-inch powered subwoofer rounding out the package. Dolby Vision is supported via a 4K video input optimizing the picture for your display.
“The JBL Bar 9.1 True Wireless Surround Sound with Dolby Atmos sets a new standard for in-home audio,” said Dave Rogers, President, Lifestyle Audio Division at HARMAN. “At JBL, we are excited to offer Dolby Atmos for the first time to bring professional, cutting-edge audio technology right to consumers’ living rooms.”
The surround speakers have built-in batteries, but after ten hours of playback these can simply be docked to the sound bar to recharge. JBL has quite a formidable legacy of producing reference equipment for both professional cinemas and homes, so this new package should warrant a listen if you have a local dealer planning to stock it.
The Bar 9.1 will be available from JBL in the Spring of this year for $999.95.
Martin, a seasoned journalist and AV expert, has written for several notable print magazines. He’s served in key roles at Lucasfilm’s THX Division, NEC’s digital cinema division, and has even consulted for DreamWorks. Despite his illustrious career, Martin remains rooted in his passion for cinema and acting, with notable appearances in several Spielberg films, Doctor Who, and Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back. He currently resides in San Francisco.
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