With JBL Cove, the American audio specialist is launching a new multi-room system consisting of three Wi-Fi speakers of different sizes. The Cove M1, P1, and X1 can be used individually, as a stereo pair, or together in multiple rooms. Two models can also be used as wireless rear speakers for current JBL soundbars. The launch is scheduled for October 2026.
A system for the whole house
The three JBL Cove speakers are set up and organized into groups using the JBL One app. This should make it possible to start playback in a single room without having to dissolve existing groups or reconfigure the system first.
JBL calls “Music Follows Me” an interesting convenience feature: By pressing and holding the Moment button, the selected speaker takes over the currently playing playlist or the audio from a connected soundbar. There’s no need to take out your smartphone to do this.
The initial setup will take place in three steps and will not require a JBL user account at this time. Of course, the respective login credentials will still be required for paid streaming services.
Extensive Streaming Support
JBL offers a pleasingly wide range of connectivity options. In addition to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, all three Cove models support Apple AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, and Qobuz Connect. They also feature Roon Ready and support for high-resolution audio playback. You can also access Spotify Tap using the Moment button.
The announced voice control via Alexa+ will not be available to German buyers for the time being. It is scheduled to launch later in 2026 via a software update, but initially only in the U.S.
All three models are designed as two-way speakers and feature automatic calibration. The technology, which JBL calls “Constant Sound Field,” is intended to ensure the most even sound balance possible throughout the room. AI Sound Boost analyzes the signal in real time and is designed to reduce distortion, especially at higher volume levels.
JBL Cove M1: Compact Entry-Level Model
With a suggested retail price of 229.99 euros, the Cove M1 serves as the entry-level model in the new system. Despite its compact design, it combines two 30-millimeter tweeters and one 20-millimeter tweeter, all featuring silk domes and neodymium drivers. A 4-inch woofer handles the bass.
The M1 runs exclusively on AC power and has neither a battery nor any rated protection against dust or water. It also does not support Dolby Atmos. However, in addition to standard stereo and multi-room operation, it can also be used as a wireless rear speaker for a compatible JBL soundbar.
JBL Cove P1: Portable with Dolby Atmos
The JBL Cove P1 is the only portable model in the trio. Its battery is rated to last up to 14 hours. A charging station is part of the design, so the speaker can have a permanent spot at home and be taken along when needed. Thanks to its IP56 certification, it’s protected against dust and water jets.
In terms of acoustics, the P1 combines three 30-millimeter tweeters and one 20-millimeter tweeter with a 4-inch woofer. One of the 30-millimeter drivers emits sound upward, enabling the playback of Dolby Atmos content.
The P1 can also be used as a single speaker, in a stereo pair, as part of a multi-room group, or as a rear speaker for a JBL soundbar. The price is 449.99 euros.
JBL Cove X1: Two woofers for a more solid foundation
The top-of-the-line Cove X1 features four 30-millimeter tweeters, one of which is upward-firing. It also includes two 4-inch woofers. The X1 also supports Dolby Atmos, but unlike the P1, it is designed for stationary, AC-powered operation.
At 499.99 euros, the X1 costs just 50 euros more than its portable counterpart. In exchange, it forgoes a rechargeable battery and IP56 protection, but promises more bass reserves thanks to its second woofer.
There is one notable feature when using the Cove X1 with current JBL soundbars: The Cove X1 can take over their audio signal as part of a multi-room music setup, but cannot be used as a rear channel at launch. For now, this feature is reserved for the Cove M1 and P1.
Cove as an extension for the JBL Bar MK2
JBL lists the Bar 300MK2, Bar 500MK2, Bar 800MK2, Bar 1000MK2, and Bar 1300MK2 soundbars as compatible. When paired with these models, the Cove M1 and P1 can handle the rear channels, transforming a compact soundbar setup into a more immersive home theater system.
We’re already familiar with the smallest compatible soundbar: The JBL Bar 300MK2 impressed in the STEREO-GUIDE test with its powerful sound, high dynamic range, and the versatile JBL One app. For these reasons, it received our “Best Buy” recommendation. The ability to expand the system later with two Cove speakers now makes the concept significantly more flexible.
Prices and availability
The JBL Cove is set to launch in October 2026 in both black and white:
- JBL Cove M1: 229.99 euros
- JBL Cove P1: 449.99 euros
- JBL Cove X1: 499.99 euros
On paper, the new product family thus covers three quite different applications: from compact multi-room and rear speakers to portable models and more powerful stationary speakers. A test will have to show just how well the automatic room calibration, Dolby Atmos, and integration with the soundbars actually work in practice. JBL has not yet provided details on dimensions, weight, amplifier power, or the specific high-resolution formats supported.
For more information, visit: www.jbl.com
