Audio giant JBL is making a fresh push into the competitive whole-room audio market with the local release of its Cove wireless speaker series in Australia. Comprising the Cove M1, Cove P1, and Cove X1, the trio enters the market to challenge established multi-room ecosystems like Sonos. Each model functions as a standalone speaker, can pair with a matching unit for stereo output, or integrates seamlessly with compatible JBL equipment such as Bar Mk2 soundbars. All three units feature Wi-Fi connectivity with support for Google Cast, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz Connect, and Roon Ready protocols, alongside standard Bluetooth pairing.
The lineup scales up in size, power, and capability. The compact Cove M1 packs a total output of 110W using three 20mm tweeters and a 4-inch woofer. Moving up the ladder, the Cove P1 and the larger Cove X1 introduce Dolby Atmos support. The P1 delivers 120W of output through three 30mm tweeters, a 20mm tweeter, and a 4-inch woofer, while housing a built-in battery rated for 14 hours of playback. This battery-powered design allows the P1 to function as a wireless rear surround speaker when paired with a Bar Mk2 soundbar, or to be picked up and moved outdoors for portable listening. The flagship Cove X1 scales power up to 200W, driven by four 30mm tweeters and dual woofers.
To streamline setup and operation, JBL relies on its proprietary JBL One platform. The companion app manages initial device configuration, speaker grouping, and playback controls on a single screen. According to early demonstrations, the software aims to remove friction from grouping and ungrouping speakers for different listening environments, addressing common pain points in multi-room audio management. The Cove series bridges a distinct gap in JBL's existing catalogue, slotting in alongside traditional Bluetooth speakers and soundbars to offer a dedicated, modern whole-home ecosystem.
JBL Launches Cove Wireless Speaker Lineup in Australia with Dolby Atmos Support
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