The US Bar 1300XMK2 solves an unusual problem. Its rear speakers are parts of the bar until you lift them off and carry them to the sofa. You can get physical surround sound without leaving stands or power cords in a shared living space every day.
In depth
JBL Bar 1300XMK2 review
Published
Best forMovie fans who want speakers behind the couch during a film and out of the way afterward.
At a glance
- Channel configuration
- 11.1.4
- Included system
- Soundbar, 12-inch wireless subwoofer and two detachable surrounds
- Immersive audio
- Dolby AtmosDTS:X
- TV connection
- HDMI eARC
Pros
- Battery-powered detachable rears need no outlets behind the seats during use.
- Three HDMI inputs leave room for multiple source devices.
Cons
- The rear speakers need charging between sessions.
- The separate 12-inch subwoofer takes up space even when the rears are docked.
Surround Sound
- 11.1.4 channels
- Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
Place the detached speakers behind the listening area and run the room calibration with those positions in mind. RTINGS found moving soundtrack effects generally easy to follow on its 1300XMK2. 1 That is the payoff for setting the speakers up each time; keeping them docked leaves all the sound sources beside the TV.
Bass & Placement
- 12-inch subwoofer
- wireless audio link
The X matters in this model name. JBL specifies a 12-inch woofer for the US package. Allow floor space and a power socket for the enclosure. If the sub must live against a shared bedroom wall, reducing its level can be more useful than chasing the highest output setting.
Connectivity
- 3 HDMI inputs
- HDMI eARC output
A disc player, streaming device and another HDMI source can be cabled to the bar while a single output runs to the TV. If a console needs a particular high-refresh video mode, connecting it straight to the screen and returning audio over eARC avoids depending on the bar to pass that mode.
Battery & Controls
- Up to 10 hours of detachable-speaker playtime
JBL’s rated playtime depends on material and volume. Return the speakers to their charging positions after use, particularly before a film marathon. They can also be used away from the TV as Bluetooth speakers, a useful second job when a party moves to another room.
Alternatives
The Bar 700MK2 also supplies detachable rears, but its 7.1 layout uses a different approach to height and includes a smaller 10-inch sub. Choose it if removable speakers are the feature you want and you have little use for three HDMI inputs.
An original Bar 1300X already has removable surrounds. Keep it if those speakers and the bass cabinet still suit your room. Replacing the whole system just to gain the detachable design would buy a feature you already own. 1
Verdict
The 1300XMK2 is worth considering when the room converts between everyday use and film nights. If you are unwilling to move and recharge the surrounds, much of the reason to choose this particular system disappears.
About this review
This is a research-based review. The Fasit has not physically tested this product.
Sources & Research
1 reference
Independent sources cited in this article.
- RTINGSBar 1300XMK2 review and test findings (opens in a new tab)https://www.rtings.com/soundbar/reviews/jbl/bar-1300xmk2-soundbar
US 1300XMK2 tested: moving effects tracked well with detached satellites placed around the listener.