The “vintage audio” theme seems to rolling forward into 2023 with a slew of new product introductions at CES 2023. Mission, Klipsch, Wharfedale, and JBL were some of the first brands to capitalize on the trend back in 2021 and 2022 and it would appear that Harman is adding to the lineup with the new JBL Classic Series hi-fi components.
JBL’s Classic Series combines timeless design with modern technology to create a range of loudspeakers and components that are surprisingly affordable.
The hi-fi components announced today at CES 2023 carry on this tradition and join the award-winning range of passive and active Classic Series loudspeakers including the iconic L100 Classic.
Inspired by the JBL SA600 amplifier from the 1960s and the exclusive SA750 integrated amplifier introduced to celebrate JBL’s 75th Anniversary in 2021, their retro styling features the same natural walnut wood veneers as the Classic Series loudspeakers along with machined aluminum faceplates and controls, while the
latest hi-res digital and analog audio electronics deliver an unmatched listening experience.
The addition of these new models allows music lovers to create a complete Classic Series audio system with the unique combination of retro design and thoroughly modern features and acoustic performance.
“Whether streaming audio from a mobile device or enjoying a CD or vinyl record, the latest additions to our Classic Series create captivating experiences for listeners that bring music to life,” said Jim Garrett, Senior Director, Product Strategy and Planning, HARMAN Luxury Audio. “And they look as amazing as they sound. With their retro design, they perfectly match each other and JBL Classic and Studio Monitor Loudspeakers for a sleek, cohesive look in any environment,” explained Garrett.
SA550 Classic Amp
JBL’s SA550 Classic integrated amplifier features an advanced Class G amplifier topology with high power output. Because it includes the latest Bluetooth aptX Adaptive technology for hi-res wireless audio and low latency, the SA550 Classic can be paired with mobile devices right out of the box for instant music streaming.
MP350 Classic Music Player
For higher quality music streaming, the JBL MP350 Classic music player makes it simple for users to stream music services and personal libraries from their smartphones and tablets. Once connected to a home network via Wi-Fi or Ethernet, the Roon-ready MP350 Classic music player allows listeners to enjoy music directly from Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect, as well as a host of additional music services via the Google Chromecast or Apple Airplay ecosystems.
Both the SA550 and MP350 are said to render digital audio using a reference hi-res DAC with time domain jitter elimination for perfect sound, every time.
CD350 Classic CD Player
For listening to CDs, JBL’s CD350 Classic CD player offers retro appeal when playing compact discs. With support for CD, CD-R, and CD-RW playback, and FLAC, WAV, MP3, AAC, and WMA file formats, the CD350 Classic combines a robust tray loading mechanism and USB-A input with advanced hi-res digital technology for bit-perfect sound.
TT350 Classic Turntable
The JBL TT350 Classic turntable features a direct drive motor that ensures records are played in perfect time with powerful dynamics at 33.3 rpm for LPs and 45 rpm for EPs and singles. Rotational speeds are locked with a speed sensor for perfect pitch.
The turntable’s curved aluminum tonearm features a high-quality moving magnet cartridge pre-installed on a removable head shell for easy replacement and upgrade. Damped and adjustable feet reduce vibration ingress to the record, while allowing for positioning on uneven surfaces.
The TT350 includes a tinted hinged dust cover to match its walnut wood chassis and complete its authentic retro appearance. It is the perfect match for the high-performance phono preamplifier input included with the SA550 and SA750 integrated amplifiers.
Price & Availability
The new JBL Classic Series will be available by Q2 2023 at the following prices:
- A550 Classic – $2,000
- CD350 Classic – $700
- MP350 Classic – $800
- TT350 Classic – $1,000
