JBL Bar 1000MK2 review: Big, bold sound in a supremely versatile package

The JBL Bar 1000MK2 is designed to address a problem inherent to the discrete surround speakers that come with soundbar systems: what happens when you don’t have a suitable place to plug them in?

It’s a challenge the JBL Bar 1000MK2 addresses elegantly by using detachable, rechargeable surround speakers that can be placed almost anywhere — with or without power.

Along with its detachable surround speakers, this model goes beyond most of the best soundbars by including not one, but three dedicated HDMI inputs. It’s blistering with wireless connections, too, including AirPlay and Google Cast. The included 10-inch wireless sub completes the picture, turning the Bar 1000MK2 into a highly flexible home theater system.

It creates highly immersive, cinematic experiences that put you in the middle of the action, but it’s not without its flaws. Height channel effects, the hallmark of a great Dolby Atmos or DTS ...