
If anyone doubted that JBL still had something interesting to show in the world of soundbars – well, here you go. The manufacturer has just announced five new models with the MK2 designation, which is an improved version of the well-known series. Among them is the Bar 1300MK2, which is said to offer a total of... 2470 W of power. Yes – you heard that right. And all of this from a device that will fit under your television.
What's new in the MK2 series?
On the occasion of the premiere, JBL increased the power of the Bar 1300MK2 and Bar 1000MK2 models, giving them even more "punch" during movie screenings. It is these two soundbars that also feature upward-firing speakers — with support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.
The set includes detachable rear speakers. Day-to-day, they are charged when connected to the soundbar, and during a screening, they can be set up separately in the room. Interestingly, they can also be used as Bluetooth speakers or in night mode, where sound is played only through the rear speakers (which are closer to the viewer).
The new version of MultiBeam technology aims to expand the soundstage in the living room, and the improved PureVoice 2.0 system enhances the clarity of dialogues — making it easier to understand what the characters on screen are saying.
Availability
The models JBL Bar 1000MK2, Bar 800MK2, Bar 500MK2, and Bar 300MK2 are now available in the official JBL store, and will soon be available at retail partners.
The flagship model Bar 1300MK2 will debut in September at a price of 1500 euros. It is set to compete with among others the Sonos Arc Ultra and the Samsung Q9 series.
JBL also announced that models from the 300–800 series will receive a software update this year, which will add support for DTS Virtual:X.
JBL’s new soundbars — specs and pricing
Model | JBL Bar 1300MK2 | JBL Bar 1000MK2 | JBL Bar 800MK2 | JBL Bar 500MK2 | JBL Bar 300MK2 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Channels | 11.1.4 | 7.1.4 | 7.1 | 5.1 | 5.0 |
Max Power Output | 2470 W | 960 W | 780 W | 750 W | 450 W |
Night Listening | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Amazon Music HD, Roon Ready, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Amazon Music HD, Roon Ready, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Amazon Music HD, Roon Ready, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Amazon Music HD, Roon Ready, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, Google Cast built-in, Roon Ready, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, SmartThings |
Detachable speakers | 2 detachable wireless speakers with Bluetooth function | 2 detachable wireless speakers | 2 detachable wireless speakers | No | No |
Subwoofer | Dual 8” compact sub with AI Sound Boost | 10” subwoofer | 10” subwoofer | 10” subwoofer | No |
Availability | September 2025 | June 2025 | June 2025 | June 2025 | June 2025 |
Price (USD) | ~1619 USD | ~1241 USD | ~971 USD | ~702 USD | ~432 USD |