- Manufacturer & Model
- JBL Modern Audio Receivers and Stage2 Speakers
- MSRP
- $249 to $1599
- Link
- https://www.jbl.com
- Highlights
- Modern, scalable home theater, Easy setup and upgrades, Works with SmartThings, EZ Set EQ app calibration, Apple AirPlay and Chromecast, Bluetooth and Spotify support, Stylish Latte and Espresso finishes, Patented HDI waveguides, Anodized aluminum tweeters, Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, 8K HDMI video support, Unified system design, 5.2 to 9.1-channel AVR options, High-efficiency Class D amplification, AVR pricing from $399 to $1,599, Speaker pricing from $299 to $1,199, Floorstanding and bookshelf models, Center and Atmos modules, Powered subs with optional stands, Designed by JBL Acoustics Team, Over 75 years of JBL expertise.
- Summary
- We recently took a trip to Interscope Studios in Santa Monica to hear JBL’s all-new lineup of affordable, design-forward speakers and receivers in action—and we walked away with a lot to say. From a $799 2-channel rig to a multichannel Atmos setup designed with Gen Z sensibilities and simplicity in mind, this review covers what the gear sounds like, how it’s built, and what makes JBL’s latest approach to home audio so unique. If you’re shopping for a system that blends modern aesthetics with familiar functionality—and doesn’t blow your budget—this is one to watch.
JBL’s latest speaker and receiver lineup isn’t just a refresh—it’s a full-blown rethink of what accessible hi-fi gear can look and feel like. In this review, we take you behind the scenes at Interscope Studios in Santa Monica, where JBL and Dolby staged a full-scale demo of the company’s new Modern Audio receivers and Stage 2 speakers. From bookshelf setups to full Atmos configurations, this hands-on experience provided a unique look at how JBL is targeting a new generation of listeners with simplified AV design, approachable prices, and gear that looks right at home next to your gaming console.
But what really stands out? JBL’s design and tech decisions reflect deep research into the habits of Gen Z and millennial users—people who are more likely to stream than spin vinyl, and more likely to crave intuitive setups than menu-deep adjustments. These aren’t your dad’s receivers, and that’s by design. We break down how JBL’s new remotes, speaker aesthetics, and room calibration tools aim to eliminate friction and make stereo and surround sound more approachable than ever.
Of course, this is a review, so we dig into details revealing what we saw and heard with several different systems. From stereo listening in a 2-channel rig to punchy subwoofer support in a 7.1.2 Atmos setup, we explore what works, what doesn’t, and what kind of experience you can expect for the money. And yes, we talk bass. Tight, musical, and present—but with honest takes on where you might want to add a sub.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer stepping up from a soundbar, or an enthusiast curious about JBL’s pivot into lifestyle-focused audio, this review gives you everything you need to know.
AV NIRVANA is member and reader supported, so if you watch the review and decide some of the gear is worthy of a purchase, you can support our forum by using the Best Buy links below. We may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Of course, there are other retailers on the internet that sell these products (not Amazon, by the way), so if you have a preferred shop or site, please give them your patronage!
JBL Stage2 240B Bookshelf Speaker
- Espresso: https://fave.co/441uTMa
- Latte: https://fave.co/3RpsHGQ
- Espresso: https://fave.co/4jbyAna
- Latte: https://fave.co/3RslKot
- Espresso: https://fave.co/4jITLwX
- Latte: https://fave.co/42BEB5p
- Espresso: https://fave.co/4jgubiL
- Latte: https://fave.co/4jlZOaQ
- Espresso: https://fave.co/4lDgqMO
- Latte: https://fave.co/3Y6rQPb
- Espresso: https://fave.co/4itB3s1
- Latte: https://fave.co/42P2hEO
JBL MA310 – 5.2 Channel 4K AV Receiver
- Black: https://fave.co/42hNe6u
- White: https://fave.co/42BESFt
- Black: https://fave.co/3GhngaI
- White: https://fave.co/42A893t
- Black: https://fave.co/4lCAcYR
- White: https://fave.co/3EpPkIk
- Black: https://fave.co/4jCEu0p
- White: https://fave.co/3EsIFNv
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