Apple Airplay 2 and Chromecast along for the ride too
Samsung subsidiary Harman has taken the covers off of the JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam Soundbar.
Taking on the Sonos Arc, but at half the price, this Dolby Atmos-packing soundbar is the first from the brand to combine Atmos with its own proprietary beamforming technology – MultiBeam – for room filling sound from a single point.
However, it’s not just a TV speaker. Like the new Sony speakers announced at CES 2021, the MultiBeam Soundbar can form part of an Alexa multi-room music system, even though Amazon’s digital assistant isn’t baked in.
It’s clear that Alexa multi-room functionality is going to be on the themes of this year’s CES. Despite being available since 2018, the Alexa Multi-Room Music (MRM) initiative hasn’t exactly set the world alight.
Prior to CES 2021, only Marshall has got involved – on smart speakers with Alexa baked in.
As well as the Alexa smarts, there is also Chromecast on board for Google Home music systems, as well as AirPlay 2 for you iUsers.
The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam will be available in Black, direct from the manufacturer for $399.95, in the Spring.
As well as the new soundbar, JBL also used CES to reveal the gorgeous looking SA750 Integrated Amplifier that features an iconic retro-inspired milled aluminum face panel.
With both Google Chromecast and Apple Airplay 2 on board, it’s a slick looking, high-performing way of kick starting your own top multi-room music system.
