Soundbars have dominated the home theater category for a number of years and with consumers seemingly happy with fewer components and a relatively unobtrusive loudspeaker option that delivers an experience that is good enough for the asking price — it would appear that the traditional AVR has gone out of favour.
With only a few soundbars, however, like the Theory Audio Design 5.2.2 system delivering a world-class surround sound experience — it’s actually hard to make the argument that AVRs have become irrelevant.
The reality is that they are still the best option if you want the best possible immersive home theater audio listening experience. Some of the recognizable brand names in the AVR space include Denon, Marantz, Onkyo, Pioneer, and others, but for 2024, well-known speaker maker JBL has decided to reinvigorate its home theater emphasis with the introduction of the MA Series AVRs.
JBL MA Series Introduction
The JBL MA series AV receivers consist of five models based on a platform of fundamental connectivity with the latest features for video and music, with additional premium features as you move up in the line. The five models are:
- MA310 (5.2 Channels)
- MA510 (5.2 Channels)
- MA710 (7.2 Channels)
- MA7100HP (7.2 Channels)
- MA9100HP (9.2 Channels)
Tip: MA stands for “Modern Audio” and these new components look nothing like JBL’s higher-end Classic Series. The new MA AVRs are designed to work with JBL’s new Stage 2 loudspeakers.
All models feature similar technologies to support high-performance sound including Class D amplification to power all channels, Dolby and DTS decoding, and high-resolution 192kHz 24-bit DACs. With audio quality and a focus on ease of use, the MA Series models offer the flexibility of a wide range of input sources and listening modes so you can enjoy your content easily and quickly with the fewest number of steps.
The free EZ Set EQ app provides easy-to-use room equalization for optimized sound quality for all the AVR models in the MA line. The calibration gathers room acoustics data for each speaker group in under 2 minutes and can be done by anyone using an iOS or Android mobile device.
However, if you want more precise EQ, the MA7100HP and MA9100HP models additionally come with “Dirac Live Ready” for automatic room correction assuring audiophile-quality sonics, allowing integrators and power users to use advanced tools to optimize the system to their personal room acoustics.
Shared Features
Channel Options: The MA series AVRs offer 5.2, 7.2 & 9.2-channel options that are designed to deliver top-notch performance in a home theater setup.
Easy Setup: Intuitive setup with a minimalist modern design
Audio Support: High-performance immersive surround sound with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X decoding, with support for up to 7.1.2 or 5.1.4 channel configurations (model dependent). Unlike many AVRs, the MA series models are designed to deliver great sound for both music and movies.
Video Compatibility: 4K & 8K video compatible.
Device Integration: Seamless integration with smart TVs, gaming consoles, streaming, cable boxes, and more with 4 & 6 HDMI inputs and 1 & 2 outputs, plus eARC connectivity.
Bluetooth and Network Streaming: Stream music wirelessly via Bluetooth and network streaming (Apple Airplay 2, Google Chromecast).
Tech Note: The MA 310 provides Bluetooth, but does not provide network streaming.
On-screen setup and operation: On-screen display for easy system setup and operation (via HDMI).
Amplification: Five, Seven, and Nine channels of low noise Class D amplification for real-world power to all channels
EZ Set EQ: This feature provides easy-to-use room equalization for optimized sound quality.
Dirac Live: The MA7100HP and MA9100HP are Ready for Dirac Live room correction. However, you need to purchase a license to use it.
Comparison
| MA310 | MA510 | MA710 | MA7100HP | MA9100HP | |
| Price | $399 | $599 | $799 | $1,199 | $1,599 |
| Amplifier Type | Class D | Class D | Class D | Class D | Class D |
| Number of Channels | 5.2 | 5.2 | 7.2 | 7.2 | 9.2 |
| Power @ 8Ω 2ch driven | 60 Watts | 75 Watts | 110 Watts | 125 Watts | 140 Watts |
| Surround Sound Format Support | Digital Digital DTS | Dolby Digital DTS | Dolby Digital DTS Dolby Atmos DTS:X | Dolby Digital DTS Dolby Atmos DTS:X | Dolby Digital DTS Dolby Atmos DTS:X |
| HDMI In/Out | 4 / 1 | 4 / 1 | 6 / 1 | 6 / 2 | 6 / 2 |
| HDMI Version | HDMI 2.0, HDCP 2.1 up to 4K/60Hz Ultra HD | HDMI 2.1, HDCP 2.3 up to 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz | HDMI 2.1, HDCP 2.3 up to 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz | HDMI 2.1, HDCP 2.3 up to 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz | HDMI 2.1, HDCP 2.3 up to 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz |
| HDMI ARC/eARC | ARC | ARC/eARC | ARC/eARC | ARC/eARC | ARC/eARC |
| HDR | Yes | Yes – HDR 10+, Dolby Vision | Yes – HDR 10+, Dolby Vision | Yes – HDR 10+, Dolby Vision | Yes – HDR 10+, Dolby Vision |
| Pure Direct | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Audio File Formats | MP3 / MPEG-4 AAC: up to 48 kHz / 320kbps WMA: up to 48 kHz / 192kbps ALAC: up to 192 kHz / 24-bit FLAC: up to 192 kHz / 24-bit PCM / WAV / AIFF: up to192 kHz / 24-bit | MP3 / MPEG-4 AAC: up to 48 kHz / 320kbps WMA: up to 48 kHz / 192kbps ALAC: up to 192 kHz / 24-bit FLAC: up to 192 kHz / 24-bit PCM / WAV / AIFF: up to192 kHz / 24-bit | MP3 / MPEG-4 AAC: up to 48 kHz / 320kbps WMA: up to 48 kHz / 192kbps ALAC: up to 192 kHz / 24-bit FLAC: up to 192 kHz / 24-bit PCM / WAV / AIFF: up to192 kHz / 24-bit | MP3 / MPEG-4 AAC: up to 48 kHz / 320kbps WMA: up to 48 kHz / 192kbps ALAC: up to 192 kHz / 24-bit FLAC: up to 192 kHz / 24-bit PCM / WAV / AIFF: up to192 kHz / 24-bit | |
| DAC | 192kHz/24-bit | 192kHz/24-bit | 192kHz/24-bit | 192kHz/24-bit | 192kHz/24-bit |
| EZ Set EQ | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Dirac Live Ready | – | – | – | Yes – License Purchase Required for use | Yes – License Purchase Required for use |
| Light Show | – | – | – | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | – | Yes (2.4/5GHz) | Yes (2.4/5GHz) | Yes (2.4/5GHz) | Yes (2.4/5GHz) |
| Bluetooth Receive | Yes (v5.1, Low Energy) | Yes (v4.1, Low Energy) | Yes (v5.3, Low Energy, APTX HD, APTX Adaptive) | Yes (v5.3, Low Energy, APTX HD, APTX Adaptive) | Yes (v5.3, Low Energy, APTX HD, APTX Adaptive) |
| Apple Airplay 2 | – | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Chromecast Built-in | – | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Digital Audio Inputs | 1 Coax 1 Optical | 1 Coax 1 Optical | 1 Coax 1 Optical | 1 Coax 1 Optical | 1 Coax 1 Optical |
| Stereo Analog Input | 2 x RCA | 2 x RCA | 2 x RCA | 2 x RCA | 2 x RCA |
| Phono Input (MM) | – | – | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Pre-Out (Single End RCA) | 2 x Subwoofer | 2 x Subwoofer | 2 x Subwoofer | 2 x Subwoofer | 2 x Subwoofer |
| Dimensions (HWD) – includes feet | 4.3 x 17.0 x 13.7” 109.2 x 432. x 347.6mm | 4.3 x 17.0 x 13.7” 109.2 x 432. x 347.6mm | 4.3 x 17.0 x 13.7” 109.2 x 432. x 347.6mm | 5.3 x 17.0 x 15.6” 135.0 x 432 x 396.4mm | 5.3 x 17.0 x 15.6” 135.0 x 432 x 396.4mm |
| Weight | 11.3 lbs (5.1kg) | 12 lbs (5.4kg) | 13.8 lbs (6.3kg) | 16.4 lbs (7.4kg) | 16.8 lbs (7.6kg) |
| What’s in the Box | JBL MA310 1x IR Remote 2x AAA batteries 1x Bluetooth antenna 1x Power Cord 1x Quick-Start Guide 1x Safety Sheet | JBL MA510 1x IR Remote 2x AAA batteries 1x Bluetooth antenna 1x Power Cord 1x Quick-Start Guide 1x Safety Sheet 1x Wi-Fi antenna | JBL MA710 1x IR Remote 2x AAA batteries 1x Bluetooth antenna 1x Power Cord 1x Quick-Start Guide 1x Safety Sheet 2x Wi-Fi antenna | JBL MA7100HP 1x IR Remote 2x AAA batteries 1x Bluetooth antenna 1x Power Cord 1x Quick-Start Guide 1x Safety Sheet 2x Wi-Fi antenna | JBL MA9100HP 1x IR Remote 2x AAA batteries 1x Bluetooth antenna 1x Power Cord 1x Quick-Start Guide 1x Safety Sheet 2x Wi-Fi antenna |
Initial Impressions
As stated at the top of this article soundbars dominate as the primary home theater solution for most consumers, and even JBL offers up a soundbar line. However, for those looking for a home theater experience that offers up a lot of connectivity, control, and power, the AVR is still the way to go.
The JBL MA series A/V receivers appear to provide practical solutions (reference the comparison chart) at reasonable price points. Ultimately, AVRs need to be paired with loudspeakers, and JBL’s new Stage 2 loudspeakers are specifically designed in matching white or black finishes for a cohesive look with modern appeal.
Pricing & Availability
The JBL MA Series AV Receivers are priced as follows:
They can be purchased through authorized JBL Dealers and other approved outlets.
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ORT
July 19, 2024 at 11:45 am
They need to lose that Valley Girl spokesbot. Talk about awful vocal inflections? “I’m all”…
I’m out.
ORT
Chris Boylan
July 19, 2024 at 6:38 pm
I expect this to be the reaction of most of our readers as most of our readers are of a different generation (myself included). I was at first mildly horrified when I watched the video clip, but then my marketing background kicked in and I realized that taking an approach like this is exactly the kind of thing that HiFi manufacturers need to do in order to attract a new demographic. With this being JBL’s return to the “direct” consumer market for receivers (their previous models were only available in the CI market), they’re entering a very crowded market – Denon, Onkyo, Pioneer, Sony, Yamaha, etc. The market isn’t growing so really the only way a new player will be able to succeed will be by expanding the potential market.
The question is can they do this without pissing off too many of their previous customers? That remains to be seen. But personally I’m impressed that they were willing to take the risk. As a father of a teenage daughter and son, I have to say they totally nailed it. 🙂