HARMAN announced at CES that the JBL Control range will be revamped in 2015 with the addition of the JBL Control X and JBL Control X Wireless Series. In addition, HARMAN introduced the next generation of high-performance loudspeakers with its JBL Arena series loudspeakers.

The new JBL Control X range will initially consist of two products, the JBL Control X Wireless (MSRP $499) and the JBL Control X ($299). The JBL Control X Wireless is a compact, active Bluetooth stereo speaker pair that can be used in the home or outdoors. It is the first truly wireless stereo Bluetooth speaker pair that allows a user to add an additional wireless stereo pair without any wires or cables between each speaker. Users can opt to use a single speaker, both speakers or up to four speakers at once, depending on the location or need. The JBL Control X Wireless adds improved performance and portability over the existing JBL Control 2.4G and 2.4G AW models.

Along with these enhancements, both new models feature a new design. The JBL Control X Wireless loudspeaker is available in graphite, red and white, and the JBL Control X model is available in white and black finishes.

JBL Control X Wireless Loudspeakers

• Portable, rugged design for use indoors and outdoors
• High Definition Imaging (HDI) waveguide design with 1-inch (25mm) CMMD Lite tweeter
• 5.25-inch (130mm) glass fiber reinforced poly cone
• 60W Class-D digital amplification built-in to each speaker
• AC/DC power operation (5-hour battery life)
• Bluetooth and 3.5 mm audio input
• Boundary compensation switch improves performance based on speaker location
• No wires to connect between speakers
• Four-play mode allows two pairs to work together to provide coverage to a wide area
• Stereo or summed mono modes provide flexibility depending on usage and placement
• Patented Slipstream-tuned port serves as a handle, while providing deep bass response
• Rubberized interface with power, volume and playback controls, plus battery status LEDs

JBL Control X Loudspeakers

• Rugged, weatherized design for use indoors and outdoors
• High Definition Imaging (HDI) waveguide design with 1-inch (25mm) CMMD Lite tweeter
• 5.25-inch (130mm) glass fiber reinforced poly cone
• 3/8"–16 threaded insert for mounting
• 200W peak / 50W continuous power handling
• Patented Slipstream-tuned port delivers deep bass response
• Gold binding post terminals for easy connection to a receiver or multi-zone amplifier

HARMAN's next generation of high-performance loudspeakers is the JBL Arena series loudspeakers. It features a complete range of loudspeakers, including a choice of two bookshelf and two floorstanding models complemented by the options of a center channel loudspeaker and a subwoofer.

Each speaker offers a High Definition Imaging (HDI) waveguide design, which was derived from JBL M2 Master Reference professional monitors and considered by many to be the best recording studio monitor in the world.

Computer-optimized drivers and crossover network integration deliver 3D soundstage backed by a deep bass response.

Each loudspeaker is available in a choice of black or white finishes, with brushed metal trim detail on the grilles.

JBL Arena series loudspeakers

• Six new speaker models for flexible system configurations
• High Definition Imaging (HDI) waveguide design
• Computer-optimized driver positioning and crossover network integration
• Contemporary cabinet shape with angled side and top panels provide a sophisticated, modern look
• Rigorous testing and real-world evaluation
• Available in black and white finishes with minimalist grilles and brushed metal trims
• Designed and engineered in Northridge, California

Models

• JBL Arena 120 - 2-way 5.5" Bookshelf / Surround Loudspeaker - MSRP $199.95
• JBL Arena 130 - 2-way 7" Bookshelf Loudspeaker - MSRP $299.95
• JBL Arena 170 - 2-way 7" Floorstanding Loudspeaker - MSRP $499.95
• JBL Arena 180 - 2-way Dual 7" Floorstanding Loudspeaker - MSRP $699.95
• JBL Arena 125C - 2-way Dual 5.5" Center Channel Loudspeaker - MSRP $199.95
• JBL SUB 100P - 10" 100W Powered Subwoofer - MSRP $299.95

Harman Omni Soundbar System

HARMAN also announced at CES the Harman Kardon Omni Bar - a 2.1-channel soundbar which includes a wireless subwoofer.

The Harman Kardon Omni Bar can be connected to a TV, but it also can join a standard Wi-Fi network and deliver high-definition audio wirelessly as part of the Omni multi-room network. The Omni lineup with new Omni Bar is controlled and configured wirelessly by way of the Harman Kardon controller app. For added flexibility the Omni Bar also has built-in Bluetooth connectivity allowing you to access and stream music straight from your phone, tablet or laptop. One Touch Follow Me Audio – LINK button allows you to walk from one room to another while the music follows you at the touch of a button, even when streaming from Bluetooth.

It supports 24 bit/96kHz HD audio streaming will be available in April 2015 at an MSRP of 799.00.

Harman Kardon AVR 1x1s Series of Audio/Video Receivers

Last but not least, HARMAN introduced its Harman Kardon AVR 1x1 Series with the additions of Spotify Connect in all models and HDMI 2.0 in the two top models.

Even before launching the Harman Kardon AVR 1x1s with HDMI 2.0 and Spotify Connect, the Harman Kardon AVR 1x1 Series had provided a variety of ways to connect. All three products in the series are compatible with Apple devices, including the iPad, iPhone and iPod touch. Furthermore, each Harman Kardon AVR functionality extends to up to six HDMI devices, all 4K pass through and 3D-ready, to accommodate Blu-ray players, videogame consoles, computers, Apple TV, HDTV cable boxes and more. MHL input also allows high-definition content to play from a camera, phone or tablet directly to the big screen. Additionally, Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay, vTuner Internet radio and DLNA 1.5 present multiple streaming options.

Powered by a switch-mode, digitally based power supply, Harman Kardon AVR 1x1s 1510s, 1610s and 1710s provide uninterrupted power to the Harman Kardon amplifier. To supplement this, the Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio decoding create an immersive audio/video experience.

Prices for the Harman Kardon AVR 1x1s are ranging from $299 to $499.