JBL Cinema SB MK2 Soundbars Add Wireless Rear Speaker Support

A soundbar is often the easiest way to improve television audio without filling a room with speakers and cable. JBL’s new Cinema SB MK2 range starts with a compact 3.1-channel model and moves up to a Dolby Atmos system with upward-firing drivers.

All four models include a dedicated centre channel for dialogue and can work with a pair of JBL Flip 7 portable speakers as wireless rear channels. That creates a possible upgrade path for someone who wants to start with the bar alone.

Quick Reference

• Models: Cinema SB510MK2, SB550MK2, SB580MK2 and SB595MK2.
• Prices: From €199.99, with UK prices reaching £350 for the SB595MK2.
• All models: 3.1-channel layout, Bluetooth, Auracast and a dedicated centre channel.
• Wireless rear option: A pair of JBL Flip 7 speakers using SurroundPlay.
• Dolby Atmos: Virtual processing on the SB580MK2 and upward-firing drivers on the SB595MK2.

Four Models For Different Budgets

The SB510MK2 is a 200W bar with its bass driver built in. The 360W SB550MK2 adds a separate 5.25-inch wireless subwoofer. The 440W SB580MK2 and SB595MK2 both use a larger 6.5-inch wireless subwoofer.

A dedicated centre channel places most speech in the middle of the soundstage, which can make dialogue easier to follow than it is through thin television speakers.

What SurroundPlay Actually Does

SurroundPlay connects two compatible portable speakers to the soundbar as separate left and right rear channels. At launch, the JBL Flip 7 is the compatible model. Owners should not assume that any Bluetooth speaker will work.

The system uses Auracast, a Bluetooth broadcasting technology. For a beginner, the practical point is that the soundbar can be used on its own first, with the optional rear pair added later if the room and budget allow.

Dolby Audio And Dolby Atmos

The SB510MK2 and SB550MK2 support Dolby Audio. The SB580MK2 creates a virtual Dolby Atmos effect through processing, while the SB595MK2 has two upward-firing drivers that bounce height information from the ceiling.

Atmos results still depend on the room, ceiling and programme being played. Upward-firing drivers are not the same as installing speakers overhead, but they are a more practical route in a rented room or first flat.

A Foldable Design For The Box

The SB550MK2, SB580MK2 and SB595MK2 bars fold into a U-shape for transport and packaging. This is a shipping feature, not a listening mode: the soundbar must be unfolded before use. JBL says the design can reduce packaged volume by up to 20 percent.

Connections And Everyday Use

The entry models use HDMI ARC, while the SB580MK2 and SB595MK2 add HDMI eARC and an HDMI input. eARC can carry higher-bandwidth television sound formats when both devices support them. Bluetooth is included for casual music playback from a phone or tablet.

Price And Availability

The range is due in selected markets from 1 October. European prices begin at €199.99 for the SB510MK2, followed by €249.99 for the SB550MK2, €349.99 for the SB580MK2 and €449.99 for the SB595MK2. Announced UK prices include £300 for the SB580MK2 and £350 for the SB595MK2; local prices should be checked before ordering.

What The Terms Mean

3.1 channels: Left, centre and right sound channels plus bass. Subwoofer: A speaker made for low frequencies. Dolby Atmos: A format that can include height information. HDMI eARC: An enhanced connection for sending audio from a television to a sound system.

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