HARMAN International showed off a brand new line of speakers at IFA 2023. The JBL Authentics range of home speakers brings a sense of style complete with JBL’s signature sound tuning. JBL isn’t just harmonising tunes, it’s harmonizing two giants, Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, in one seamless audio experience.

In today’s audio landscape, immersion is key. According to a recent HARMAN survey, 75% of respondents highlighted the importance of audio quality in conveying the true emotions of music. High-quality audio aids concentration, relaxation, and a deeper emotional connection to the content. To cater to this demand, JBL Authentics is engineered to deliver stadium-like sound in your living room. This collection consists of three distinct models: Authentics 200, 300, and 500. While the Authentics 200 and 300 cater to indoor and outdoor needs, the Authentics 500 stands tall as a powerhouse.

The JBL Authentics lineup also employs technologies like Spatial audio to provide a true sense of immersion. The inclusion of this technology isn’t something new for JBL as the company has been producing products like the JBL BAR which employs the same technology to deliver 3D soundscapes. The expertise is put to good use across the JBL Authentics line with the Authentics 200, Authentics 300, and the Authentics 500. The Authentics 500, in particular, leverages Dolby Atmos encoding and HARMAN’s patented Constant Sound Field technology. This combination expands the sound stage, enveloping your room in a rich auditory experience.

Three Models for Any User to Choose From

The JBL Authentics 300, designed for both indoor and outdoor use, boasts impressive audio specs. It features a pair of one-inch tweeters, a full-range 5.25-inch woofer, and a 6.5-inch downward-firing passive bass radiator. This configuration promises a slightly bass-forward sound profile with clear mids and highs.

For those seeking even more power, the Authentics 500 is a 270W beast with three 1-inch tweeters, three 2.75-inch midrange woofers, and a 6.5-inch downward-firing subwoofer. It also supports Dolby Atmos for a 3D audio experience that will transport you into the heart of your entertainment. The JBL Authentics 200 rounds up the trio with an assembly of entry-level specifications with a similar configuration to the 300: two one-inch tweeters, a full-range five-inch woofer, and a six-inch passive radiator.

A Symphony of Voice Assistants

What sets the JBL Authentics range apart is its ability to simultaneously access and operate both Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. Unlike some speakers that require you to choose one assistant over the other, JBL’s innovation allows for a seamless interplay between the two. Imagine setting a timer with Google Assistant and having Amazon Alexa stop it – these speakers make it possible.

This dual functionality extends to music playback as well. You can start a song with one voice assistant and pause it with the other, eliminating the need to remember which assistant initiated the action. It’s a game-changer for households with multiple smart devices and users who prefer different voice assistants.

With these voice giants at your command, you can effortlessly control music, smart home devices, set timers, and more, hands-free. The flexibility to choose between Google Assistant and Alexa for different tasks empowers users like never before.

Designed to Bring Vintage to the Future

Vintage design has gained immense popularity, with 64% of survey respondents valuing design in their audio devices. Authentics marries the best of the past and present, drawing inspiration from the iconic JBL L-100 home speakers of the 1970s. Vintage echoes blend seamlessly with modern materials, colours, and textures, creating a unique design that captivates.

Sustainability is also at the core of Authentics, with recycled aluminium cabinets and handles, along with internal parts crafted from recycled plastic.

Pricing & Availability

The JBL Authentics speakers will be available in Europe on September 15 and North America on September 17.

• JBL Authentics 200 – USD$329.99 (MYR1,629.23)
• JBL Authentics 300 – USD$429.99 (MYR2,001.64)
• JBL Authentics 500 – USD$699.99 (MYR3,258.48)

For those willing to take the plunge, Whether you’re after stunning sound quality, seamless voice assistant integration, or a fusion of vintage and modern design, the JBL Authentics range promises to deliver an authentic and immersive audio experience.