With the launch of the JBL Modern Audio (MA) AV Receivers and Stage 2 speakers, it is now possible to assemble an entry-level stereo or AV system with JBL components. Bear in mind that JBL is not usually associated with entry-level systems.
The JBL range of MA AV Receivers and Stage 2 speakers were launched at AV Designs last Friday. Although not part of the range, there was also a JBL turntable, the JBL Spinner BT, on demo too.
JBL apparently took a few years to fine tune this range to appeal to the younger audiophiles who are graduating from sound bars and active small speakers linked to dongle-type DACs.
The 110-watter JBL MA710 that was on demo is filled with features: “The JBL MA710 is an AV Receiver that delivers stunning realism with the latest 8K HDMI specifications and native 7-channel decoding of immersive audio from Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for the ultimate home cinema experience. Seamlessly integrate your smart TV or projector with 6 HDMI inputs and 1 output, plus eARC. It is designed with a passion for music and movies, bringing both to life with true high fidelity. The MA710 features seven channels of low noise Class D amplification for real world power to all channels. In addition to the onboard Moving Magnet phono input for connecting a turntable, additional music content can be accessed immediately with integrated streaming using Apple Airplay2, Google Chromecast, and Bluetooth AptX Adaptive. Audio sources can be played to a second Zone, making audio available in a secondary location. In addition to physical controls, the MA710 allows for IP control for third party control system integration.”
It was driving a pair of JBL Stage 2 250B bookshelf speakers and sound quality was acceptably good. The JBL MA710 costs RM6,300 while the 250B speakers cost RM2,600 for a total cost of RM8,900. You can stream to the MA710 via Bluetooth for a decent-sounding system for the living room in an affordable way. To boost the bass, you can add the 200P sub-woofer that costs RM3,200. This system can then be the back bone of an affordable AV system by adding another pair of bookshelf speakers and a centre speaker.
After listening to the JBL MA710 AV Receiver and JBL 250B speakers connected to the JBL Spinner BT turntable and to Spotify with and without the sub-woofer, Jo Ki took over the demo and played with a Bryston steramer, an Arcam integrated amp and the latest Bryston Bi-200 integrated driving a pair of JBL Stage 280F floorstanders. This was another level up in terms of performance. Later an AV demo was held.
The JBL MA AV Receivers are available in a variety of models, including:
> The 60W JBL MA310 5.2-channel 4K AV Receiver
> The 75W JBL MA510 5.2-channel 8K AV Receiver
> The 110W / 125W MA710 / MA710HP 7.2-channel 8K (High Performance) AV Receiver
> The 140W JBL MA9100HP, with either 5.1, 7.1, or 9.1 channels, Dolby AudioR and DTSR
or Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support, low noise Class D amplification, and broad compatibility
JBL Stage 2 Loudspeakers also offer a wide array of models and options, including:
> The 260F and 280F Floor-standing models
> The 240B and 250B Bookshelf models with separate floor stands
> The 245C Center Channel speaker
> The 240H Dolby Atmos enabled Height Module
> The 200P and 220P Subwoofers
Contact AV Designs for more information.
