JBL launches five Bar Mk2 Series soundbars at Copenhagen movie studio

JBL launched its latest Bar Series soundbars with a high-profile event at Nordisk Film Studios in Copenhagen. The company introduced the new range on the studio’s largest LED production stage, highlighting its flagship Bar 1300MK2 and a new portfolio aimed at both home cinema enthusiasts and mainstream consumers.

The location was chosen to reflect JBL’s roots in cinema audio. James B. Lansing, the company’s founder, was instrumental in developing the MGM sound system in 1937, laying the groundwork for JBL’s longstanding presence in professional theatre. Since then, JBL has been associated with landmark audio developments, including its role in THX-certified cinema speaker systems in the 1980s. Alongside the soundbars, the brand also unveiled the Boombox 4 and the JBL PartyBox 720.

The new Bar Series comprises five models, led by the Bar 1300MK2, an 11.1.4 Dolby Atmos design featuring a 29-driver array. The system includes two detachable wireless speakers that can be deployed as rear surrounds or used independently as portable Bluetooth speakers.

Other models include the Bar 1000MK2, which retains detachable rear speakers but with a reduced driver count, and the Bar 800MK2, which removes the detachable option altogether. Entry-level models - the Bar 500MK2 and Bar 300MK2 - provide smaller footprint solutions, either with or without a subwoofer.

A key new feature for the Bar 1300MK2 is AI Sound Boost, an intelligent processing technology integrated into its subwoofer. This system optimises bass performance by expanding dynamic range and minimising distortion, enabling consistent low-frequency output even at higher listening levels.

All soundbars in the new series run on the JBL One Platform, a unified ecosystem that offers full streaming integration, high-resolution and spatial audio support, and advanced personalisation. The JBL One App allows installers and users to customise a seven-band EQ, configure the system, and program the ‘Moment’ button for instant playback of preferred playlists or content. The platform also ensures products remain current through software updates.

Inside CI had an early listen to the JBL Bar 1300Mk2, which was demonstrated in a large space at the film studio, and was impressed both with its ability to project a cinematic soundstage, and the versatility of its detachable rear speakers. An action sequence from the James Bond blockbuster No Time to Die had bullets flying convincingly from every corner of the room.

Pricing is set at £1,499.99 for the Bar 1300MK2, £1,149.99 for the Bar 1000MK2, £899.99 for the Bar 800MK2, £649.99 for the Bar 500MK2, and £399.99 for the Bar 300MK2.