JBL introduces new sound bar, retro amplifier with AirPlay 2

JBL on Thursday introduced a new lineup of sound bars, amplifiers, and other audio accessories that work with — or rival — Apple products.

Ahead of the all-virtual CES 2021 conference, the audio company debuted a host of new hardware at its "Harman Explore" virtual event celebrating 75 years since JBL's founding. The new hardware includes some models that work with AirPlay 2 and other streaming platforms.

That includes the JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam. The $399.95 sound bar is equipped with four passive radiators and Harman's MultiBeam technology for a surround-sound experience. It'll become available in the spring.

The JBL Bar 5.0 features Harman's MultiBeam technology and support for AirPlay 2.

JBL also introduced a vintage-inspired integrated amplifier. The SA750, priced at $3,000, supports AirPlay 2, Alexa, and other modern technologies while providing amplified sound for "incredibly detail and accuracy." The company says it'll start shipping in April.

With AirPlay 2 on both devices, users will be able to use them in conjunction with devices like HomePod or Apple TV. They'll also be compatible with Siri for voice-enabled playback control.

The new JBL Live Pro earbuds sport active noise cancellation and an "ambient" mode.

Additionally, JBL unveiled a pair of wireless earbuds dubbed the JBL Live Pro+. With adaptive noise cancellation and an "ambient" noise, the headphones compete head-to-head with Apple's own AirPods Pro. They'll be priced at $179.95 and will be available to order on March 14, 2021.

"If the walls of JBL's storied Northridge, CA design center could talk, they'd sing the accolades of 75 years of pioneering acoustic, transducer and electronic design," JBL said of the new announcements.

AppleInsider will be covering the 2021 all-digital Consumer Electronics Show starting on January 11 through January 14 where we're expecting Wi-Fi 6e devices, HomeKit, Apple accessories, 8K monitors and more. Keep up with our coverage by downloading the AppleInsider app, and follow us on YouTube, Twitter @appleinsider and Facebook for live, late-breaking coverage. You can also check out our official Instagram account for exclusive photos throughout the event.

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4 Comments

razorpit 1793 comments · 17 Years

About 3 years ago

That's a sweet looking amp, but at $3k that's a bit much for my wallet, especially considering it uses technology Apple could change at any moment. I looked it up and they have some sweet retro speakers, L100 Classic 75, coming out with it, $5,500/pair.

My wife wasn't too happy when I bought my latest Kimber but at least that purchase will last a lifetime, and then some...

JWSC 1203 comments · 7 Years

Gone are the days of the stereo rack with preamp, amp, equalizer, receiver and turntable. Optional oscilloscope if you wanted graphics. That and massive electrostatic speakers and a subwoofer to shake the apartment building and annoy the neighbors.

Sigh... I miss those days.

bestkeptsecret 4289 comments · 13 Years

JWSC said:

Gone are the days of the stereo rack with preamp, amp, equalizer, receiver and turntable. Optional oscilloscope if you wanted graphics. That and massive electrostatic speakers and a subwoofer to shake the apartment building and annoy the neighbors.

Sigh... I miss those days.

I got a free LG soundbar when I bought my TV and the sound really disappointed me.

I've got a modest 7.1 setup right now, with a Denon receiver and KEF speakers and sub-woofer. I will keep building up on it by adding an amp and an equalizer.
It is amazing how much more music and movies are enjoyable on a great sound system!

MacPro 19845 comments · 18 Years

bestkeptsecret said:

JWSC said:

Gone are the days of the stereo rack with preamp, amp, equalizer, receiver and turntable. Optional oscilloscope if you wanted graphics. That and massive electrostatic speakers and a subwoofer to shake the apartment building and annoy the neighbors.

Sigh... I miss those days.

I got a free LG soundbar when I bought my TV and the sound really disappointed me.

I've got a modest 7.1 setup right now, with a Denon receiver and KEF speakers and sub-woofer. I will keep building up on it by adding an amp and an equalizer.
It is amazing how much more music and movies are enjoyable on a great sound system!

I went from a sophisticated sound system to a pair of Home Pods on my Apple TV and large screen set up and to be honest, other than the damn fiddling required to get them working on some Apple TV apps for the most part they are excellent. The sound is stunning for music and movies and they have very good separation from background sounds and voices.

I just added a rear Home Pod mini which started working as a ganged set with the front pair after the last update but there are still bugs, Hey Siri is now only answered by the mini now, and adjusting the overall volume by voice doesn't work, only the mini changes.