JBL BAR 1000 MK2 7.1.4 Channel Soundbar System and AudioQuest Sky 3m HDMI Cable

I have a 11.3 Atmos speaker system, and it is awesome. So I know what a really good speaker setup is like.That said, if you are not going to do discrete speakers, and you want a sound bar, this one hits all the marks.To start, I like the industrial design of this sound bar. It is a modern stylish design that goes well with sets like a Samsung Frame (Which looks like a picture when the TV is now on).I'm older, and hearing clear voices is important to me. And the voice sound range comes through clearly on this sound bar.There are included 'quick start' instructions, but they do not explain all the features in detail. You can use a QR code in the quick guide to access the online Owners Manual that explains the system in more detail.I like that you can connect a Bluetooth source and use this just to play music. And it provides a solid sound field for listening to music.The Atmos up firing speakers provide a low, medium or high sound field.The remote controls the system, but there are also basic controls on the top of the sound bar (On/Off, Volume up, Volume down). You can download an app, and once connected to the device and the internet, the app will automatically upgrade to the latest software release. (Do not unplug or turn off the sound bar during this update) The app allows modes like "Night Listening" that mute the sound bar and sub woofer to make a more silent sound environment. Also "broadcasting" where you can move the detachable speakers to another space and provide sound there (I have not done this yet). And provide fine control of the sound like being able to adjust the audio sync delay (default is 0ms). There are plenty of other features like "Moments" which plays background sounds (kind of cool), or allows you to set up your own play list.There are a couple of different ways to connect to play music: Bluetooth, Airplay, or supported in-app music services (Amazon Music, Calm Radio, Napster, Qobuz, Tidal, Tunein, iHeartRadio).The sound calibration is a 2 step process, but is rather simple to do. The results sound very good, meaning after calibration I'm surrounded by a rich sound field.Good connectivity, and excellent performance, make this a good value (even for the price).There is a lot included in this system. There are three HDMI ports that allow you to uses this as an HDMI switcher.Instead of parroting the specs in this review, I took pictures and included them in case you want to geek out...Control is simple when you need it to be simple for everyone to use, but accessible enough so that you can configure it to how you like to hear shows and music.My only complaint is that the sound bar has a basic dot matrix display on the front of the sound bar, and I would have much preferred an onscreen display with a richer graphically display.Overall, if you are not building a discrete speaker system, this sound bar is about as good as you can get. It has the advantage of being very simple to set up, yet still allowing deeper control through the app. It is perfect? Of course not, it is a sound bar. But is it a very good sound bar, yes, yes it is.👍

I recently got my hands on the JBL Bar 1000MK2 soundbar system, and I have to say, it's been quite an experience! Setting it up was pretty straightforward, and the detachable surround speakers add a nice touch. I love how they offer flexibility, letting you enjoy immersive sound without needing extra wiring all over the place.The first time I played a movie with Dolby Atmos, I was amazed by the audio quality. The MultiBeam 3.0 technology creates a spacious sound profile that envelops you, making everything from dialogue to action scenes really pop. It's like having a mini home theater right in my living room!The bass is punchy, thanks to the subwoofer, and really adds depth to the overall sound. I’ve also tried it out with music, and it performs equally well—clear and vibrant.Connecting to my voice assistant-enabled speakers was a breeze, which means I can control it with just my voice. That’s a huge convenience for me, especially when I’m multitasking.Overall, I would recommend the JBL Bar 1000MK2 for anyone looking to enhance their home audio setup. It strikes a good balance between quality and user-friendliness, and I’m really enjoying all the features it offers!