Popular Science: The best powered speakers in 2024, tested and reviewed

Why it made the cut: For newcomers to the world of discrete components, JBL Stage 2 loudspeakers offer options that can help you assemble a voice-matched system quickly and affordably.

If you need a turntable that’ll work with a Bluetooth speaker, JBL’s Spinner BT has impressive sound and easily connects to speakers and headphones for convenient listening.

If you’re building a simple DIY system which will be on public display in your living room or studio apartment and are looking for something that looks as good as it sounds, then you should check out JBL’s new MA (Modern Audio) series of AVRs.

The JBL L100 Classic MkII delivers a seamless blend of vintage aesthetics and modern acoustic performance, offering punchy, refined sound whether in stereo or home theater setups.

The MA710 offers a significant upgrade from soundbar-based systems, even those selling for more. And its elegant aesthetics set it apart from the competition. Brian and I both feel that its unique combination of beauty and brawn earn it a spot in this year’s Editors’ Choice awards roster.

All in all, this was a curated listening experience, but I think it painted a fairly decent picture of what JBL is offering with the Modern Audio and Stage 2 system. And in spaces, like where we listened to the high-end speakers and receiver, the sonic flaws of the room made the power of the speakers more impressive.

The JBL Stage 260F are the smaller of two floorstanding models in JBL’s new modern Stage 2 loudspeaker line-up for 2024, which excel in sound quality, design and versatility for hi-fi or home theater.

The JBL Modern Audio AV Receivers and Stage 2 Loudspeakers are more than just a step forward—they’re a leap into the future of home entertainment.

Jon's demo of the JBL MA710 7.2-channel receiver represents a pivotal moment in home theater design.

As an audio advocate, I've been feeling a mite glum about the state of the industry. At least a couple "leading" audio product makers have had to be bailed out by new owners in recent years, and JBL sister brand Harman Kardon totally abandoned the a/v receiver business.

My bottom line is that if someone is looking for an elegant wireless audio solution with abilities to connect to a TV or other legacy source components that does not compromise on sound quality the L42ms Classic Integrated Music System and companion L10cs subwoofer are definitely worth checking out.

As designers, we know that beauty matters just as much as performance.

The resulting combo shows that you really can draw out some impressive multi-channel sound from small and unassuming enclosures.

There is a lot to like about this sub. This 12 inch sub is the larger of the two units available in the Stage 2 speaker series yet is still pretty easy to move around given it's almost a perfect square.

JBL has dubbed its inaugural AV Receiver range MA (Modern Audio) for a reason. This model in particular offloads a fair number of legacy trappings, making it very easy to install and use.

JBL MA + Stage 2: JBL is the global leader in high-performance audio. The JBL Stage 2 Speakers + MA receivers are the first component audio system designed by JBL from top to bottom bringing a legacy of sound-making into living rooms.

JBL may best be known for its iconic hi-fi speakers, headphones, and Bluetooth speakers, but the company also makes integrated amplifiers and, yes, AV receivers.

If you’re looking for modern engineering, loud dynamics and clean sound, and you’re into retro style, the JBL L100 Classic MkIIs are as good as it gets.

JBL Modern Audio: JBL is the global leader in high-performance audio.

In the end, if you’re looking for an incredible surround sound system that packs a punch, won’t break the bank and looks stellar, then you need to check out JBL’s latest surround sound systems.

JBL’s Modern Audio (MA) AV Receivers and Stage 2 Loudspeakers are high-performance home theater solutions for the next generation of music and movie enthusiasts.

JBL brought my colleague Dua Rashid down to check out its MA AV Receiver and Stage 2 Loudspeaker.

Discover JBL's Stage 2 Loudspeakers and Modern AV Receivers—premium, sleek, and designed for top-tier sound quality in any home setup.

La mejor forma de experimentar el contenido en cualquier manera es mediante un buen equipo de sonido, JBL quienes tienen como principal objetivo darnos productos de la mejor calidad posible nos han dado una demostración privada sobre sus nuevos productos JBL MA AV Receivers y los Loudspeakers Stage 2.

They say that the high-end audio business is doomed as the younger generation is unwilling to upgrade their home audio gear due to the costs and inconveniences of separate components.

This JBL Stage 2 5.1 speaker plus subwoofer combo shows that you really can draw out some impressive multi-channel sound from small and unassuming enclosures.

In this 7th episode of Sorta HiFi, we sit down with Jim Garrett: Senior Director Product Strategy and Planning, Luxury Audio Division, Harman International. We chat about Jim’s love of Music, gear, cars, and everything under the sun. Enjoy!

The MA310 doesn’t scrimp on sound quality. It’s also a usable and attractive, shelf-compliant box for all AV occasions and it feels like JBL is cannily reaching out to a formerly tech-nervous audience. For an enthusiast on a budget, someone who just wants an uncomplicated turn-on-and-go experience, or even the person who wants more electronic sophistication than found inside a questionably spec’d soundbar, the MA310 offers an intriguing new take on rather tired conventions.

Check out budget home theater options from JBL. $3,400 for a 5.1.2 and $5,800 for a 7.1.2 Dolby Atmos Setup. Get the most out of your Dolby Atmos Home Theater.

In this 7th episode of Sorta HiFi, we sit down with Jim Garrett: Senior Director Product Strategy and Planning, Luxury Audio Division, Harman International. We chat about Jim’s love of Music, gear, cars, and everything under the sun. Enjoy!

I recently had the opportunity to experience JBL’s new MA AV Receiver and Stage 2 Loudspeakers. What’s exciting about these releases is their suitability for the average consumer in terms of price, ease of setup, and features.

Those looking for a big classic sound to fill their den or gaming room or those looking for something with a bit warmer tone that is more fun compared to their standard listening room speakers will thoroughly enjoy the new JBL L100 Classic MKII speakers. Those who fondly remember the originals will find that all the things they liked are still here with improved detail and clarity compared to the earlier versions.

In this 7th episode of Sorta HiFi, we sit down with Jim Garrett: Senior Director Product Strategy and Planning, Luxury Audio Division, Harman International. We chat about Jim’s love of Music, gear, cars, and everything under the sun. Enjoy!

JBL is the global leader in high-performance audio. The JBL Stage 2 Speakers + MA receivers are the first component audio system designed by JBL from top to bottom, bringing a legacy of sound-making into living rooms.

If you are looking to take your home audio to the next level – beyond a soundbar – I’d recommend demoing one of JBL’s setups. Whether it’s for movies, music, or gaming, their new systems offer a balance of performance, style, and user-friendliness that’s hard to beat.

JBL is KILLING it! What's new for CEDIA 2024.

At $4,800 for the pair, the L100 Classic MkII offers a blend of style, performance, and build quality that justifies its place in any serious audio setup. It’s not just about nostalgia—JBL has crafted a speaker that lives up to its legendary name while embracing modern audio expectations. For all these reasons, the JBL L100 Classic MkII earns an AVS Top Choice award for 2024.

JBL Synthesis is the pinnacle of dedicated home theater audio, and Harman’s Bluetooth speakers are a lot of fun for the casual music fan.

JBL's speakers are the voice of countless recording studios, live music venues, and movie theaters.

I am at the rooftop bar of The Hollywood Roosevelt hotel for the introduction of JBL’s Stage 2 Loudspeakers and Modern Audio AV receivers.

Jim Garret, Senior Director of Product Strategy and Planning for Harman's Luxury Audio Group, introduced their new JBL Modern Audio Hi-Fi and Home Cinema systems.

JBL has dropped a home cinema bombshell with its new range of home cinema AVRs and speakers, with a whopping 13 new products in total making up the range.

Winner – HARMAN Luxury Audio Group JBL Stage 2 Series Loudspeakers and Modern Audio Series AV Receivers

JBL unveiled a new line of modern audio components and home loudspeakers designed for the next generation of home theater and music lovers.

JBL and Arcam at Audio Advice Live 2024

Get a quick overview of JBL's newest line of affordable Stage 2 loudspeakers (8 models) and MA Receivers (5 models)

Out of almost nowhere, JBL recently announced a huge range of products that should provide a massive shake-up to the home cinema world.

JBL Earns Two Best of Show Awards at CEDIA Expo 2024 by eCoustics

There are few speaker manufacturers more synonymous with the 1970s than JBL, founded by James Bullough Lansing (1902–1949), an American audio engineer and loudspeaker designer best known for establishing two audio companies that bear his name, Altec Lansing and JBL, the latter taken from his initials.

Modeled on the best-selling JBL L100 Classic, the limited edition JBL L100 Classic 75 is a testimonial to the groundbreaking engineering and thoughtful design displayed by JBL over the last 75 years;

"Vocals are a particular highlight, manifesting into mid-air sources seemingly made of flesh and bone. When listening to musicals like the fantastic Hadestown, it’s easy to imagine yourself in prime Broadway seating, able to place singers not only on the X-axis of the stage, but on the Z as well."