JBL has announced its new Authentics series of home speakers, which includes the Authentics 500, Authentics 300, and Authentics 200 models. These speakers incorporate modern technology with a design that is inspired by JBL’s heritage, specifically drawing from the JBL L100 speaker from the 1970s. The frames are made of premium aluminum, the enclosures are wrapped in custom synthetic leather, and the grilles have been redesigned in the Quadrex style.
The Authentics 500 model is a Wi-Fi and Bluetooth-enabled smart speaker that offers 3.1 channel sound output with 270 Watts of power. It is equipped with three 1-inch tweeters, three 2.75-inch midrange woofers, and a 6.5-inch downfiring subwoofer. One of the notable features is its Dolby Atmos support for enhanced audio experience.
The Authentics 300 model is designed for portable use and features an 8-hour battery life. It offers high audio performance suitable for both indoor and outdoor settings.
The Authentics 200 model is a more compact speaker equipped with a pair of 1-inch tweeters, a full-range 5-inch woofer, and a downfiring 6-inch passive radiator for bass output.
All the speakers in the Authentics series are compatible with both Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, thanks to a new integration built in collaboration with Amazon and Google. This allows users to communicate with either voice assistant on the same device simultaneously. Users can set up and control the speakers through the JBL One app, which also allows for customization of EQ settings.
The Authentics series speakers also support various streaming options including AirPlay, Alexa Multi-Room Music, Spotify Connect, and Chromecast built-in. They are equipped with automatic self-tuning capabilities that calibrate and adapt the audio performance based on the speaker’s placement.
Carsten Olesen, President of Consumer Audio at HARMAN, stated that the Authentics range aims to blend JBL’s historical design elements with modern features like Dolby Atmos and voice assistant compatibility.
The materials used for constructing these speakers are eco-friendly, consisting of 100% recycled fabric, 85% recycled plastic, and 50% recycled aluminum. These speakers will be available for purchase from September 15, 2023, on JBL’s website. They come packaged in FSC-certified paper and are printed with soy ink.