
Key takeaways of zdnet
- The JBL Bar 1000mk2 consists of one soundbar, two viosable rear speakers and an external subwoofer for $ 1,200.
- It is a versatile system, which has a powerful audio performance suitable for large rooms.
- This is not an ideal option for those who want permanent rear speakers.
More Buying Choices
The original JBL Bar 1000 created a compelling case for themselves as a versatile soundbar for those who wanted an alternative to the surround sound speaker who were not necessarily permanently established and easy to place as required. Now, JBL is back with a follow -up: Jbl bar 1000mk2,
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Like the original, the soundbar comes with a satellite speaker that when you don’t want or do not require a surround sound experience, then the soundbar can attach to magnetically. Then, when the movie night comes, separate them from the sides of the soundbar for more immersive audio. But at $ 1,200, JBL Bar 1000mk2 is definitely not cheap. Is it worth buying? Or should you go for something else? Let’s dive.
Versatility is the key
The best thing about JBL Bar 1000mk2 is its versatile design. The design makes it easier for those with small living rooms who get a surround sound setup without permanently mounted, wired surround speakers. It is like a talented concept.
Two surround speakers simply look like part of the soundbar when they are connected to the sides, and they charge when they are attached. If you are mostly connected to the soundbar and only take them off for some types of materials, then you should not need to worry too much about the battery life – you will get 10 hours on the charge.
If you do not need to attach them to the soundbar to charge them, then you like to put them in positions around, though. Each speaker has a small USB-C port on it that you can use to power it. So if you want to keep them in a more permanent position, you can.
In the box, you will also find mounting hardware to mount soundbar and surround speakers, which is easy. Many standalone sounds at a similar price point sell different growing gears.
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Vissue surround speakers can be used independently of the soundbar. Each of them has Bluetooth connectivity, so you can use them as individual Bluetooth speakers around your house.
Perhaps JBL Bar is the least versatile aspect of the design of 1000mk2 is a 10-inch exterior subwoofer. I think JBL has covered a relatively heavy subwofer with the soundbar, but it makes it more difficult to keep in your living room compared to slimmer subworms like Sonos sub 4, which is the sub -of my choice. You will need to find a corner or any other area in your living room where you can keep the subworm.
The JBL bar 1000mk2 included the exterior sub -subject.
Christian de Looper/ZDNET
The versatility extends beyond the normal design of the soundbar, however – you also get versatile connectivity options. Behind the Soundbar, you will find an HDMI earc port to connect the Soundbar to your TV, but you will also find three HDMI 2.1 pass-thrro port, meaning that you can use the soundbar as a hub for your sources, including modern game console.
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Soundbar connects to Wi-Fi, so it supports wireless streaming options such as Airplay 2 and Google Cast. You can also use the JBL One app to stream from platforms such as Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect.
Immersive and powerful audio
Design is not just a gimmick. When it comes to audio performance, the soundbar is also very capable. When surround speakers are separated from the soundbar and placed on their correct positions, they distribute immersive audio when watching encoded content in Dolby Atomos.
The immersion was quite good; The sound effect from me next to me translated well, although it has a lot to do with the fact that the roof of my living is well suited to sound reflections, and your experience may vary if you have a different size location.
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He said, I was most surprised that the audio with the surround speakers associated with the soundbar was still emergent. To ensure this, it was not isolated and not too much in the position around with surround speakers, but the soundbar gave a solid surround experience using reflections.
As a result, you can mostly feel surround speakers attached to the soundbar without losing or without feeling as you are really missing. It is perfect for watching day to day or consuming materials that do not necessarily depend on a surround sound experience. Then, when you have a film night, you can move speakers around them to increase the level of immersion.
JBL Bar 1000mk2’s Viosable Rear Speaker.
Christian de Looper/ZDNET
The overall frequency response to the proposal by the soundbar is also impressive, and most of its parts are outstanding for the subwoofer. The subworm has a 10 -inch driver, and was able to pump deep and impressive bass that worked at times when it was slightly higher.
Thankfully, you can get the audio response tweet in the JBL One app, so if you find that the bass response is a little at the top, you can lower it. I like the frequency response to watching music by watching TV and movies and listening to music carelessly.
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The performance went beyond a good frequency reaction. The soundbar can be very loud, and it is well suited for large living rooms. This model has a 960W total power output, a step from the 880W output of the original JBL bar 1000.
ZDNET purchase advice
Jbl bar 1000mk2 Easily the best all-in-one theater is one of the soundbars. In addition to looking outstanding, this is the most versatile soundbar I have ever tested. If you prefer the idea of surround sound, but not necessarily a permanent rear speaker, the JBL bar 1000mk2 is the way to go easily.
If you are ready to spend (very) and do not consider permanent rear speakers bad, it is still worth going for something. Arc ultra With the rear sonos Era speakers and a sonos subwofer, which is at least $ 1,826 and the highest $ 2,696. Or you can go with Samsung HW-Q990fA home theater-in-a-box that retails for $ 2,000. But at the price point of the bar 1000mk2, you cannot find the contestants with a balance of audio reaction and versatility.