JBL’s new modern and affordable approach to hi-fi and home theater pairs Stage 2 loudspeakers with new MA series A/V Receivers in matching white or black finishes.

With 75 years of experience in both professional and home audio, JBL has a storied tradition in audio innovation, which bears out in their latest product introductions, the MA AVR and Stage 2 series of components and loudspeakers.

JBL’s strategy is to market the MA Series AVRs and Stage 2 speakers as an expandable stereo or home theater system combination — at a much more affordable price point.

Tip: For those wondering, MA stands for “Modern Audio” and these new models look nothing like the retro JBL speakers the company has been known for, such as their Classic Series and L100.

Whether users are starting with a basic two-channel system, upgrading from a soundbar, or looking to build a high-end home theater setup featuring 8K HDMI video, Dolby Atmos immersive sound, and DTS:X, the Stage 2 speakers and MA Series AVR product range can be scaled to meet those needs.

The performance profile of each model has been optimized both individually and as a system. This gives users the freedom to create the setup they want without sacrificing sound quality.

JBL’s Stage 2 loudspeakers offer an affordable solution that incorporates some of the design and technology features from JBL’s higher-end speaker products at an affordable price point. 

JBL Stage 2 Loudspeaker line consists of 8 speakers grouped as follows:

• Floorstanding Models: 260F and 280F ($999/$1199)
• Bookshelf Models: 240B and 250B ($299/$399)
• Center Channel Model: 245C ($449)
• Dolby Atmos Height Module: 240H ($499)
• Powered Subwoofers: 200P and 220P ($499/$599)

All of the speakers were designed and engineered at JBL’s Acoustic Engineering Center of Excellence in Northridge, California. Check ecoustics for a complete breakdown and comparison of the individual models.

All of the speakers (except for the subwoofers) incorporate JBL’s High Definition Waveguide (HDI) technology, Anodized Aluminum Cone tweeters, and Polycellulose woofers. In addition, to make them easy on the eyes (you don’t want your speakers to distract from your listening enjoyment) they are all offered in an Espresso or Latte woodgrain finish.

The two subwoofer models come with either a 10 or 12-inch Polycellulose driver, supported by dual rear-firing ports and built-in amps. Controls for Auto Power, Crossover, Level, and Phase are available on the rear panel. The subwoofers are also offered in the same Espresso or Latte finish.

Initial Impressions

JBL’s Stage 2 loudspeakers offer an affordable solution that incorporates some of the design and technology features from JBL’s higher-end speaker products at an affordable price point. JBL’s Stage 2 loudspeakers offer an affordable solution that incorporates some of the design and technology features from JBL’s higher-end speaker products at an affordable price point.

In addition, the Stage 2 speakers are designed to complement JBL’s MA series affordable A/V Receiver line. 

For those starting from scratch, it can be a daunting task to setup a home theater system. JBL’s new affordable product lines now make it possible to setup a 5.1 home theater system for under $2,000. Or max out the budget with the top models and immerse yourself in a 9.2.2 Dolby Atmos system for as much as $5,249.

Pricing & Availability

The JBL Stage 2 Series Loudspeakers are priced as follows:

• 280F: $1,199/pair per pair (floorstander)
• 260F: $999 per pair (floorstander)
• 250B: $399 per pair (bookshelf)
• 240B: $299 per pair (bookshelf)
• 240H: $299 per pair (height)
• 245C: $399 each (center)
• 200P: $499 each (subwoofer)
• 220P: $599 each (subwoofer)

Tip: Optional Stands for 240B and 250B bookshelf speakers (FS): $249 per pair

The speakers and stands can be purchased through JBL.com, authorized JBL Dealers, and other approved outlets.

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Audio Advice Review: Overall, we are very impressed with JBL’s work on the Stage series. They have upgraded the Stage 2 speakers to improve their performance while keeping the price affordable. They use the same tweeters and waveguide design for every model, and the woofers are all designed with ribbed paper cone drivers, giving you the same sonic traits.  For our music-listening and movie-watching, the Stage 2 speakers were balanced, dynamic, and smooth and allowed us more realism than many products even close to this price class. If you want to move from soundbars or Bluetooth speakers into your first real Hi-Fi or theater system, look closely at the JBL Stage 2 Series. They will give you a performance that soundbars and Bluetooth speakers simply can’t provide and be affordable doing it. We also recommend looking at the matching JBL MA Series receivers, as they were tailor-made with these speakers in mind. Call us, chat, or email here at Audio Advice, and let our knowledgeable staff help you see if the JBL Stage 2 speakers are for you.

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This article originally appeared at ecoustics.com and has been published here with permission.