JBL has launched a new line of wireless speakers called JBL Authentics, which combines a vintage-inspired design with modern features. The Authentics series includes three models: the 500, the 300, and the 200. All of them support Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for streaming music from various sources.
These speakers also boast an innovative feature that allows users to switch between Amazon Alexa and Google voice assistants. Both are integrated into the speakers. You can register both assistants and access them simultaneously for different tasks. Other speakers can support Amazon and Google’s voice assistants, but only one is active at a time. So, JBL’s approach is considered pretty novel.
You can control the speakers can be controlled via the JBL One. The app lets you browse through integrated music services and customize your sound with EQ settings. The speakers also support multi-room playback via AirPlay, Spotify Connect, Chromecast, and Alexa Multi-Room Music.
The JBL Authentics speakers have a premium look and feel, with an aluminum frame, a synthetic leather-wrapped enclosure, and a Quadrex grille that pays homage to the classic JBL L100 speaker from the 1970s.
The speakers are also eco-friendly. They are made from 100% recycled fabric, 85% recycled plastic, and 50% recycled aluminum. The packaging is made from FSC-certified paper and printed with soy ink. You can only get the speakers in black.
The JBL Authentics range aims to compete with other high-end wireless speakers such as Sonos’ Era and Denon’s Home series. The speakers will go on sale on September 15.
Made for the home
The JBL Authentics 500 is the largest and most powerful speaker in the Authentics range, offering a stunning sound experience with Dolby Atmos support. This speaker is designed to be plugged into the mains and placed in your home, where it can automatically adjust its sound to suit any room.
The most impressive feature of the JBL Authentics 500 is its ability to play spatial 3D audio from compatible streaming services, thanks to its Dolby Atmos support. This means you can enjoy immersive sound that fills your space with depth and detail. The speaker has three 1-inch tweeters, three 2.75-inch midrange woofers, and a 6.5-inch downfiring woofer, delivering crystal clear sound with tight, accurate bass.
You can stream music wirelessly via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, or connect to your router via Ethernet for a more stable connection.
The JBL Authentics 500 is available for GBP 579.99 / EUR 629.99.
The more portable JBL Authentics 300
The JBL Authentics 300 is a smaller and more portable version of the Authentics 500, with a convenient handle that makes it easy to carry around the house or to the garden.
This speaker has an 8-hour battery life, so you can enjoy music without worrying about plugging it in. However, it does not seem to have any waterproofing, so be careful not to expose it to water.
The JBL Authentics 300 can also stream music wirelessly via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, or use voice control to access Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. Unlike the Authentics 500, this speaker does not support Dolby Atmos audio, but it still promises a clear and balanced sound. The speaker has a pair of 1-inch tweeters with a full-range 5-inch woofer and a downfiring 6-inch passive radiator.
You can get the JBL Authentics 300 for GBP 379.99 / EUR 429.99.
The smallest of the bunch
The JBL Authentics 200 is the smallest and most affordable speaker in the Authentics range, but it still offers many of the same features as the larger models. The Authentics 200 can stream music wirelessly via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, or use voice control to access Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. It also supports multi-room playback and automatic self-tuning to optimize its sound for any room.
The Authentics 200 does not have a battery, so it needs to be plugged into the mains. It also does not have a handle, so it is less portable than the Authentics 300. However, it still delivers a clear, balanced, and powerful sound with stereo sound. It features the same speaker setup as the Authentics 300.
The JBL Authentics 200 retails for GBP 299.99 / EUR 329.99.
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