The JBL MA7100HP is part of JBL’s new AV receiver range, combining impressive power with a contemporary design enhanced by a large color display. With 7.2 channels delivering 175W each, this amplifier is designed to meet the challenges of a modern installation in a living room or dedicated area. It supports the Dolby Atmos and DTS:X immersive audio formats, as well as the latest HDMI 2.1 standards, while offering an interface of unprecedented simplicity.
Accessible JBL sound
JBL, a recognized specialist in cinema speakers, has made a name for itself in the high-end AV receiver market with its prestigious Synthesis range. Aimed primarily at professional installations and the most demanding enthusiasts, these models, such as the JBL Synthesis SDR-38 amplifier (€8,499) and JBL Synthesis SDP-58 preamplifier (€6,999), represent excellence in cinema audio performance. With the new MA series, JBL is broadening its catalog by offering more affordable AVRs. The range includes five models:
| MA310 | MA510 | MA710 | MA7100HP | MA9100HP | |
| Channels | 5.2 | 5.2 | 7.2 | 7.2 | 9.2 |
| Power (4 ohms – 2 channels) | 100W | 100W | 160W | 175W | 240W |
| Price | €549 | €799 | €999 | €1,399 | €1,899 |
Presentation
Design
The JBL MA7100HP AV receiver is a unique model in an electronics category where designs are often austere and displays dated. Measuring 43cm wide, 39cm deep and just 13.5cm high, it is easy to install in a cabinet or alongside a TV. The aluminum chassis is combined with a glossy front panel, adding a touch of modern elegance. It is available in black or white, a rare occurrence in this sector. The physical control interface consists of five buttons for accessing menus, adjusting the brightness of the AVR’s lighting and selecting the surround mode. Two large polymer potentiometers enable source selection and precise volume adjustment.
The distinctive features of this AV receiver include a large color display on the front panel, adding practicality and aesthetic appeal. This screen makes configuration much easier, with direct, intuitive access to the various menus. Although it is unfortunately not touch-sensitive, navigation is simple and fluid via the remote control, allowing you to adjust sources, sound and image without getting lost in complex sub-menus or hiding the movie on the screen, as is often the case with the competition, with the exception of a few Anthem models.
While listening to music, the display can show detailed information such as album art for streaming services, the track title, playback time and resolution. In home theater mode, it provides essential data such as source name, current audio format and volume level. The brightness of the screen can be adjusted to several levels, and can be completely deactivated for those wishing to reduce light pollution in their room.
7.2 channels, 175W
The JBL MA7100HP AV receiver adopts a 7.2-channel architecture, implementing seven separate amplifiers to maximize simultaneous power across all channels. The modules operate in class D, reducing the receiver’s size while guaranteeing excellent impulse response to bring dynamics and energy to film soundtracks. This design enables the JBL MA7100HP AVR to develop a high power output of 175W RMS into 4 ohms and 125W RMS into 8 ohms in hi-fi conditions. As a result, it promises to efficiently power numerous home theater speaker systems.
Acoustic calibration and settings
To optimize its performance, the JBL MA7100HP amplifier incorporates an acoustic calibration system to analyze the characteristics of the listening room. Unlike many competitors that include a dedicated microphone, the MA7100HP relies on the microphone of the Android or iOS smartphone used with the EZ Set EQ control app. As a result, calibration accuracy depends on the quality and performance of the smartphone.
In our tests with an iPhone, the results proved satisfactory, offering crossover frequencies adapted to our speakers and an estimation of the distances between the speakers and the listening position that was generally accurate. For users looking for even more precise calibration, the JBL MA7100HP is compatible with Dirac Live technology, accessible via an optional license. This requires the use of an external USB microphone (not included).
Whatever the calibration method, you can manually fine-tune the settings of the JBL MA7100HP receiver to suit your preferences. Separate settings are available for each source, with the option of adjusting gain, bass and treble, or activating a dialogue enhancement mode.
HDMI 2.1 with 120Hz 4K
As is now standard on recent AV receivers, the JBL MA7100HP adopts HDMI 2.1 inputs and outputs. Three of its HDMI inputs comply with this standard, supporting video streams up to 60Hz 8K and 120Hz 4K. HDR10+ and Dolby Vision standards are also included to ensure proper display of programs with extended dynamic range.
Although 8K sources are still limited, HDMI 2.1 offers significant advantages, particularly for gaming. Gamers benefit from welcome smoothness and sharpness thanks to 4K support at 120 frames per second and variable refresh rate (VRR). Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) and Quick Frame Transport (QFT) also enable the TV to dynamically adapt the display frequency, reducing latency. These technologies contribute to a more responsive gaming experience, optimizing player performance.
Analog and digital connectors
All sources connected to the six inputs of the JBL MA7100HP receiver can be output to the two HDMI outputs, one of which is eARC-compatible for retrieving the soundtrack of content viewed on a TV. For easy control, CEC compatibility enables the receiver to be switched on automatically when the TV is turned on, and its volume to be adjusted using the latter’s remote control.
These connectors also include two digital inputs (one optical and one coaxial), as well as three RCA inputs, including a phono input for connecting a turntable. In addition, a Zone 2 output enables the creation of a second, separate and independent listening space. Finally, the speaker terminals are compatible with cables of up to 3.31mm². However, the spacing between the various terminal blocks is tight, making wiring a delicate and fastidious job. We recommend using banana plugs for greater convenience.
Music streaming
The JBL MA7100HP AVR also supports music streaming thanks to the integration of AirPlay 2, Chromecast and Bluetooth technologies. Therefore, it’s easy to stream audio from your smartphone, tablet or computer, with tracks taken from streaming services. Music can also be played via Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect or Roon for tracks shared over the local network. The Bluetooth controller is bi-directional, so you can link it to wireless headphones for more intimate listening session. In addition to the EZ Set EQ mobile app dedicated solely to acoustic calibration, the manufacturer also offers the JBL Premium Audio app. The latter provides access to web radios, podcasts, as well as content shared on the network via UPnP or stored on a USB device connected to the receiver.
Installing the JBL MA7100HP receiver
Once connected to the mains and to the various sources, the JBL MA7100HP AV receiver is quickly configured using the instructions displayed on the screen and the remote control. You are first invited to select the menu language, then to register your home theater system configuration. You can then download the EZ Set EQ mobile app to perform acoustic calibration. Connection to the home network and streaming management require the JBL Premium Audio app. It is unfortunate that the calibration and wireless functions have been separated into two separate apps.
For this review, we used the JBL MA7100HP receiver in the Emmy Awards home theater room at the east Paris Son-Vidéo.com store. The associated system was a Klipsch Reference Premiere speaker pack consisting of the Klipsch RP-8060FA II floorstanding speakers, Klipsch RP-504C II center speaker, Klipsch RP-502S II surround speakers and Klipsch R-101SW subwoofer. Video was provided by the Epson EH-TW7100 projector.
Listening impressions
The JBL MA7100HP AV receiver was remarkably powerful, effectively filling our 25m² cinema room with sound at only 20% volume. It provided a wonderful freshness, realistically bringing to life the action on screen. On the film Top Gun: Maverick, we enjoyed an extended soundstage and exemplary channel separation. The action scenes were punchy and vivid, although the dynamics could have done with a little more emphasis. Fighter jets seemed to literally fly over us, offering a truly multi-dimensional experience. The subwoofer delivered a powerful punch, effectively conveying the full G-force experienced by the pilots.
Dialogue remained remarkably clear, even when the soundtrack reached its climax. Whether it was a delicate whisper or a powerful scream, the JBL MA7100HP AVR rendered every detail with impressive precision, while maintaining exemplary control.
Although class D is sometimes mistakenly associated with a certain coldness or harshness, the JBL MA7100HP shatters these prejudices by offering a beautifully delicate reproduction. Its great neutrality brings soundtracks to life naturally and without artifice. It manages to maintain the coherence of the content and effectively separate each detail.
JBL MA7100HP vs Marantz Cinema 50
Priced at €1,490, the Marantz Cinema 50 AV receiver is ideal for more comprehensive installations, thanks to its 9.4 channels. This Marantz receiver also has the advantage of incorporating a more complete network player with access to streaming services and an extensive range of connectors, with six HDMI inputs and three outputs, all HDMI 2.1 compatible. It also includes a pre-out section for coupling one or more power amplifiers. However, it can’t compete with the much more modern design of the JBL and its color screen.
Who is the JBL MA7100HP AVR designed for?
The JBL MA7100HP is an excellent choice for those who appreciate both design and performance. With its modern silhouette and large color display, it is ideal for users who are concerned about the aesthetics of their audio installation. While AV receivers are often relegated to the background in a cabinet or equipment closet, the JBL MA7100HP will stand out directly alongside the TV. Naturally, this JBL receiver will also delight home theater fans in search of immersive, impactful sound reproduction, thanks to its excellent control and effective placement of sound effects.
Our verdict
With the JBL MA7100HP AV receiver, the American manufacturer delivers a model that combines modern, innovative design with high power and excellent immersion. Its color display is a unique asset for easy control and a touch of fun, especially when listening to music, where it can display album art. JBL’s expertise in the world of cinema is fully expressed through a natural reproduction of the soundscape of the program being viewed. Each element is precisely positioned, bringing the action to life with striking realism and immersing the listener in the heart of the experience.
We liked:
- The modern, elegant design
- The large color display
- The ease of use
We would have liked:
- Calibration with external microphone
- Greater dynamics
- A touch screen
- A single app for the calibration and multi-room features
