Vintage hi-fi is definitely on a roll, as evidenced by JBL, which is reviving this style with four new electronics: the JBL SA550 amplifier, JBL CD 350 CD player, JBL MP350 network player and JBL TT350 turntable. Recently featured at HIGH END Munich 2023, these latest-generation models all share a retro design directly inspired by the 60s and 70s.
JBL Classic Series: vintage charm
For some years now, JBL (all about JBL guide) has been drawing inspiration from the successes of the past, notably with the JBL Classic Series speakers. They are inspired by the popular 1970 JBL L100, with its real wood cabinet and Quadrex foam grilles. A timeless charm now found on the JBL L52 Classic, JBL L82 Classic and JBL L100 Classic, as well as the JBL L75ms connected speaker.
The new JBL SA550, JBL CD 350, JBL MP350 and JBL TT350 complete the range, with their retro look and real wood veneer. The latter is made from American walnut. It is applied to the sides of the electronics, as well as to the top of the JBL TT350 turntable. This luxurious material is combined with a minimalist aluminum chassis.
JBL SA550: a revisited classic
The JBL SA550 hi-fi amplifier pays homage to the JBL SA600 from the 60s, whose vintage design it combines with contemporary technologies. Its power stage is now based on Class G modules. This technology, already used by the manufacturer on the JBL SA750, offers the naturalness and precision of Class A while maximizing dynamics and efficiency. As a result, the JBL SA550 amplifier can deliver up to 2 x 90 watts into 8 ohms or 2 x 150 watts into 4 ohms.
The modernity of the JBL SA550 amplifier is also embodied in its connectors, which include two coaxial inputs and an optical input. They are compatible with 24-bit/192kHz Hi-Res playback thanks to an ESS ES9038K2M DAC. The analog stage features four RCA inputs, including a phono input to connect a turntable. Finally, an aptX receiver makes it easy to stream music from a smartphone, tablet or computer.
The new JBL SA550 amp is now available for pre-order at €1,900. The first deliveries should start within ten days.
JBL MP350: modern streaming
The JBL MP350 network player brings state-of-the-art streaming technology to the JBL Classic Series. It lets you easily receive music via AirPlay 2 or Chromecast from any smartphone, tablet or computer. Its DLNA and Roon compatibility means you can enjoy music shared over the local network at a resolution of up to 24-bit/192kHz, as well as DSD 128 files. Thanks to the Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect protocols, it’s possible to use the native applications of these two services to automatically launch music on the JBL MP350 network player.
Regarding outputs, the JBL MP350 network player features RCA, optical and coaxial digital connectors. It can therefore be easily combined with any amp or DAC. This new player will be available at the same time as the JBL SA550 amplifier, at a price of €990.
JBL CD 350: the return of the CD
CD sales are on the rise again, and JBL is keen to capitalize on the trend with the new JBL CD 350 player. It is compatible with commercially available discs, as well as burned CDs (CD-R and CD-RW). It is possible to play WAV, FLAC, MP3, AAC and WMA files at a resolution of up to 24-bit/96kHz. These tracks can also be played from a USB key or external hard drive via the USB-A input.
The first units of the new JBL CD 350 CD player should also be available within ten days. It is currently available for pre-order at €890.
JBL TT350: the timeless turntable
The American manufacturer also allows you to enjoy your vinyl record collection with the new JBL TT350 turntable. It uses a direct drive to rotate a heavy, solid aluminum platter. It is equipped with the Audio Technica VM95E cartridge mounted on an S-shaped tonearm, also in aluminum. The metal chassis with walnut veneer is mounted on shock-absorbing feet to reduce vibrations and resonance. An electronic controller ensures a precise change of rotation speed: 33 or 45 rpm. All of these elements contribute to an optimal playback of the information engraved in your records.
The JBL TT350 turntable is now available for pre-order at €1,090, with stock expected to arrive at the same time as the rest of the range.
With these four new electronics, the American manufacturer offers a complete range to accompany the JBL Classic Series speakers, both aesthetically and musically. It proves that vintage design is more in vogue than ever, and can be combined with contemporary technologies.
