JBL is turning up the volume on home entertainment with the launch of its latest Bar Series, a collection of five new soundbars designed to deliver immersive, theater-quality audio in any living space. From casual streaming setups to full-blown surround sound experiences, the new lineup leans on JBL’s cinematic roots and fresh tech upgrades to meet a range of needs and budgets.
MultiBeam, Dolby Atmos, and Detachable Speakers Set the Stage
At the core of each model is HARMAN’s MultiBeam 3.0 technology, which delivers panoramic sound from a single soundbar. For more dramatic impact, most models support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X*, with up-firing drivers and detachable rear speakers included on higher-end variants like the JBL Bar 1300MK2 and Bar 1000MK2.
The new series doesn’t stop at big sound. JBL is introducing SmartDetails, a proprietary tech aimed at reproducing subtle audio cues such as footsteps and ambient textures, adding emotional depth to everything from action movies to indie dramas.
AI Sound Boost (exclusive to the flagship Bar 1300MK2) pushes subwoofer performance further, enhancing bass response without distorting at higher volumes. Dialogue clarity also gets a boost across the board thanks to PureVoice 2.0, JBL’s updated voice enhancement system.
Meet the New Lineup
- JBL Bar 1300MK2: The flagship model features a dual 8-inch driver subwoofer, six up-firing speakers, and detachable wireless surrounds. It supports true Dolby Atmos and DTS:X and adds Bluetooth speaker functionality to the detachable units. AI Sound Boost is exclusive to this model’s subwoofer.
- JBL Bar 1000MK2: Offers a similar setup in a more compact footprint, with two up-firing drivers, detachable rear speakers, and a 10-inch subwoofer.
- JBL Bar 700MK2: Trades in physical up-firing drivers for a virtual Dolby Atmos setup while still offering detachable surrounds for true rear-channel sound.
- JBL Bar 500MK2 and Bar 300MK2: Built for first-time home theater buyers, these more budget-friendly models scale back the hardware but still include virtual Dolby Atmos and access to the same software platform.
Powered by JBL One Platform
All five models are built on the JBL One Platform, which supports high-res streaming, spatial audio, and deep customization. Users can tweak a 7-band EQ, set up one-touch music “Moments,” and receive over-the-air software updates. Compatibility with major music services and apps means setup is as flexible as the soundstage.
Availability
The JBL Bar 1000MK2, 700MK2, 500MK2, and 300MK2 will be available on JBL.com starting June 2025. The flagship Bar 1300MK2 will follow in October 2025.
*DTS:X will be included at launch with the Bar 1000MK2; Bar 700MK2, 500MK2, and 300MK2 will receive DTS Virtual:X via OTA update later in 2025.
