JBL has been manufacturing professional sound equipment since the 1940s. Its range sits at the higher end of the sound system market, and is generally priced accordingly. But none of that explains the logic behind these speakers. Oddly named ‘Creatures’, this 2.1 set was disappointing. We expected much better from JBL, especially considering the $299 price.
Its appearance is plain bizarre, almost novelty-like, and it is available in three different colours: silver, blue and white.The packaging says ‘Self powered’ but this is not the case – this set requires mains power through the supplied transformer.The 8watt satellites and 20watt subwoofer housings are constructed from plastic and magnetically shielded.
Testing comprised of a DVD title, a range of MP3s and a few rounds of Battlefield 1942. Sound quality was disappointing: the mid tones were noticeably hollow and the high tones harsh.
The subwoofer, comprising of a 4inch magnum transducer at the base, provides bass and treble controls. We found that adjusting the treble at anything higher than half way produced tones that were almost uncomfortable to listen to. The bass control only served to thicken up an already muddied bass sound.
The satellites, which use an Odyssey Plus transducer, do throw a wide sound field, which at lower volume is fairly crisp and clear, but anything louder became distorted and noisy. The volume controls are also located on the satellites, by way of a capacitance operated touch button (think ‘touch lamps’).
We found little to impress, except perhaps the green LEDs in the base of the units, which cast a cool Atomic green light.
Whether you like the design or not is subjective. But good looks and high price don’t translate to good sound. Much better models can be found at that price.
Issue: 137 | June, 2012