JBL has launched the Cove speaker range, a new connected audio system designed to compete with Sonos and Bose in the whole-home market. The three models can be used individually, paired for stereo or linked over Wi-Fi to play music across multiple rooms.
The range will go on sale from September 13 in black or white. US prices start at $229.95 for the compact Cove M1, rising to $399.95 for the battery-powered Cove P1 and $449.95 for the flagship Cove X1.
The wired Cove M1 combines three 0.75-inch tweeters with a 4-inch woofer. The larger P1 adds Dolby Atmos support and can run for up to 14 hours on battery power, according to JBL.
The top-of-the-range Cove X1 must be connected to a power outlet and features four 1.25-inch tweeters and two 4-inch woofers, alongside Dolby Atmos support.
All three speakers are controlled through JBL’s One app, which allows users to manage music services and group speakers by room. JBL says automatic self-tuning adjusts the sound, while its AI Sound Boost technology is designed to reduce distortion at higher volumes.
A feature called Music Follows Me lets listeners move playback to the room they enter by holding down the Moment button on the nearest speaker, without needing to use a phone.
The JBL Cove speakers support Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz Connect, AirPlay 2, Google Cast and Roon Ready. They also have Bluetooth for direct connections with phones and tablets.
In the US, Alexa Plus subscribers will be able to use Amazon’s assistant through the speakers, including for voice-controlled smart-home functions. The Cove range can also be connected to JBL Bar Series MK2 soundbars to expand a home cinema system.
