JBL’s multi-talented new soundbar does more than just home cinema

I think that I might have found one of my favourite new soundbars. JBL’s newest Bar model (the 1300MK2) isn’t just built for movies – though it’s clearly ready to knock your popcorn over with bass.

Rather than just living in your home cinema, it’s multi-talented, and more than ready to act as a speaker for any situation. JBL has essentially taken every shiny bit of tech it could find in the audio department and stuffed it into one very sleek bar.

• Read more: Soundbar vs system: how to build a cinema system with a soundbar

You get Dolby Atmos and DTS:X surround sound, thanks to six up-firing drivers. It also throws in a dual 8-inch subwoofer with AI Sound Boost – a feature that lets you turn up the volume without distorting things. And of course, SmartDetails makes its debut too, which, means you’ll hear every creaky floorboard and whispered threat with eerie precision.

But the real party trick is a set of detachable wireless speakers. You can plonk them behind you for instant surround sound in your living room, or unclip them and wander off with a Bluetooth speaker. JBL’s betting big on versatility here, and I think it’s one of this soundbar’s biggest selling points. The JBL One Platform holds the whole thing together, letting you stream hi-res audio, fine-tune with a 7-band EQ, and fire up playlists with a single tap.

Now, if the 1300MK2 is a bit too much for you, or you’re not keen on dropping the equivalent of a small nation’s GDP, JBL’s got other options. The 1000MK2 drops to two up-firing drivers and a 10-inch sub but keeps the detachable speaker magic. The 800MK2 leans into virtual Dolby Atmos in a more compact build. And if you’re just starting out, the 500MK2 and 300MK2 are your entry-level picks – still capable, still immersive, just less likely to upset your downstairs neighbours.

The JBL Bar 1300MK2 lands in September 2025, and will be available directly from JBL. The rest of the line-up – the 1000MK2, 800MK2, 500MK2 and 300MK2 – hit shelves this June. There’s no word on pricing just yet, but given the spec sheet, don’t expect the 1300MK2 to come cheap.

• Related: Best home theater systems in 2025 for ultimate surround sound immersion

Connor Jewiss

About

Connor is a writer for Stuff, working across the magazine and the Stuff.tv website. He has been writing for around nine years now across the web and in print too. Connor has attended the biggest tech expos, including CES, MWC, and IFA – with contributions as a judge on panels at them. He's also been interviewed as a technology expert on TV and radio by national news outlets including France24. Connor has experience with most major platforms, though does hold a place in his heart for macOS, iOS/iPadOS, electric vehicles, and smartphone tech. Just like everyone else around here, he's a fan of gadgets of all sorts. Aside from writing, Connor is involved in the startup and venture capital scene, which puts him at the front of new and exciting tech - he is always on the lookout for innovative products.

Areas of expertise

Mobile, macOS, EVs, smart home