From the Show Floor - Harman Ups the Ante with New Designs and Powerful Speakers

by , 5:30 PM EDT, July 18th, 2003

Harman Multimedia introduced two new sets of speakers this week, the JBL Encounter 5.1 and JBL Encounter 2.1, both featuring high powered subwoofers and the 5.1 also has self-powered satellite speakers. According to Harman:

The JBL Encounter 5.1 system comprises 4 self-powered satellites, a clip-on or freestanding center channel and a tremendously powerful subwoofer for performance to match the needs of today's gamers and movie buffs. JBL Encounter is also available in a 2.1 system for music enthusiasts.

Harman Multimedia's JBL Encounter employs a powerful amplified subwoofer, self-powered satellite speakers and an innovative center channel clip-on speaker for a truly astounding audio experience. The subwoofer delivers 200 watts of power through Harman Multimedia's own APG Slipstream port design, and leverages a proprietary Emperor transducer for full, window-rattling bass. JBL Encounter 5.1's optimized 50-watt Quad Odyssey I center channel and Dual Warrior satellites deliver uncolored mids, highs and center channel dialogue for consummate sound quality. Further, the JBL Encounter audio system utilizes a special interconnect technology for effortless user control over volume, treble and subwoofer levels with a minimum of desktop clutter.

JBL Encounter 5.1 and JBL Encounter 2.1 will be available in November 2003 and December 2003, respectively, online and through national retailers. The speakers are priced at a suggested retail price of US$399.95 for the JBL Encounter 5.1 system, and US$299.95 for the JBL Encounter 2.1 system. You can find more information on the speakers at the JBL-Encounter Web site.

The Mac Observer Spin:

We got a chance to see these on the show floor this week, and though their demo units were having a problem relating to the streaming network in their booth, these things promise a powerful punch to beat the band. 200 watts of power in the subwoofer, and 50 watts in each satellite -- that's more total wattage than most of us have in our home stereo systems -- means lots of headroom to keep normal listening levels far away from the point of distortion. And not only do they look cool, but these speakers have volume knobs that go to 11.

Harman Multimedia: Encounter