JBL unveiled a new line of sound bars, amplifiers and other audio accessories on Thursday that work with – or rivals – Apple products.
Before the CES 2021 all-virtual conference, the audio company launched a series of new hardware at its virtual event “Harman Explore” that celebrates 75 years since the founding of JBL. The new hardware includes some models that work with AirPlay 2 and other streaming platforms.
This 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 will be available in the spring.
JBL Bar 5.0 features Harman’s MultiBeam technology and support for AirPlay 2.
JBL also introduced an integrated vintage-inspired amplifier. The SA750, priced at $ 3,000, supports AirPlay 2, Alexa and other modern technologies, while providing amplified sound for “incredible detail and precision”. The company says it will begin 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 will also be compatible with Siri for voice-enabled playback control.
The new JBL Live Pro headphones feature active noise cancellation and an “ambient” mode.
In addition, JBL unveiled a pair of wireless headphones dubbed JBL Live Pro +. With adaptive noise cancellation and “ambient” noise, the headphones compete head-to-head with Apple’s AirPods Pro. They will cost $ 179.95 and will be available to order on March 14, 2021.
“If the walls of JBL’s famous Northridge, CA design center could speak, they would sing the praises of 75 years of pioneering acoustic, transducer and electronic design,” said JBL of the new ads.