Listed at $1199 right now at JBL (RRP $1499)
HN has it for $835, but as of this morning, the 10% code (92WICKEDWED10) still applied, so I was able to order for $755.37, YMMV. I have not placed in the coupon field as I cannot guarentee it will work.
https://files.ozbargain.com.au/upload/116183/100422/bar91.jp…
Atmos system with detachable rears that run on battery for those who do not wish for permanent rears or running power lines to wireless rears (like me)
I had to apply the coupon twice for some reason but it eventually worked
I tried that, and tried again. Still no luck
Coupon worked for me.
Have had this audio system for over 2 years now. Great budget setup and entry point into higher fidelity audio. Wireless, detachable rear speakers is also a huge bonus for on demand, decent surround sound experience. In my experience, have noticed the audio quality to be a bit bass heavy with slight drop off in the mids; and voices can be a bit 'drowned out' when music is concurrently playing but that's just a nitpick.
I remember paying retail for this (~$1195) in 2020 with 15% discount TCN gift cards. I also had some issues with audio not syncing with my TV (Sony X9000h 75") properly but have managed to correct it since.
For $755 (and possible 15% off discount gift cards stack) it's an absolute steal.
How did you fix the issue?
I think it was a combination of issues, including my hdmi cable (which may have been faulty), certain TV settings (playing around with eARC settings) and updating JBL firmware. Good thing there’s plenty of info around (especially on Reddit) for troubleshooting.
Turning off smart mode (hold mute for 5 seconds, then press volume up) fixes the bass heaviness and makes dialogue way easier to understand. Unfortunately this setting isn't "sticky" so I have to do it every single time I watch something which is super annoying but I live with it because the detachable speaker set up works really well for me
You’ve just described my exact experience living with this soundbar. I turn off smart mode every single time and it massively improves the dialogue clarity. Detachable wireless speakers go on the kitchen benchtop when we watch a movie - the true surround/atmos experience is definitely worth it.
Had this bar, ended up returning it for a refund since it never worked correctly with eARC enabled (no sound). Waited over a year with updates for both the TV (X9000H) and soundbar either making the issue slightly different or altogether worse.
same issue but I cbb returning it, installed a smart plug and set a command for it to restart when no sound is heard. Sony tv also so not sure who's at fault
Both - I had the misfortune of picking the worst combination.
Beware of this soundbar. Lot of them mentioned connectivity issues up on AvForums. Also quite outdated, they released new models this year but hasnt hit our shores yet.
I suggest waiting for a Q930B sale for similar price. Current year model plus their R&D for soundbars is better I reckon.
JBL is owned by Samsung, so should have the same access to R&D…
Pricing does suggest they want to clear these out before a new model arrives. I have also seen a heap of negative reviews. I do love the idea of detachable rear speakers, but I'll wait until the next model arrives as there are always plenty of bugs to iron out in the first version of a new product like this. Same applies to almost anything electro-mechanical I guess
Thats good point. Harman owns all of these right. it's definitely has higher wife-approval score with the detachable speakers.
But thats a negative for Atmos content when you place it on the couch arm rest or something and all you hear is rear upfiring speaker. I still think its great design for people who need this form over function.
I'd need to put one of my rear speakers on the kitchen bench, so will never be allowed something permanent!
Catch has q930b for 599. Not sure about the seller. Mods removed my post because of that.
interesting…. seems like actual speaker is still better than digital/virtual/atmos sound
so even if you do have a support atmos sound system, somewhere down the line people would still buy themselves a rear speaker
My problem with this bar is charging the detachable speakers
I had my setup so I have USB next to each one but I got a lot of low battery warnings even though they are connected all the time.
What I found on Reddit is that they only charge when the bar is turned off! (stupid)
Since it starts automatically with the TV, you will have the warning half to night time unless you remember to turn if off
Coupon didn't affect the price, but worth a try. ;)