The modernized retro L100 speakers from JBL have been remastered. The MkII version has additional details and upgrades that give the speakers superior sound and retain the classic design.

As we just discussed in our last post, High End Munich 2023 just wrapped last Sunday, May 21st. With over 800 brand in attendance, the new hi-fi releases were practically never-ending. Audiophiles everywhere were overwhelmed with sneak peeks of amplifiers, streaming systems, headphones, and speakers. JBL's big release was an upgraded version of their classic modern-retro loudspeakers.

A few years ago, JBL re-released their classic L100 speaker in three iconic colors: orange, black, and blue. They maintained the design of the original speaker that released in 1970, but redesigned the interior with modern engineering.

The new L100 Classic features a 12-inch cast-frame with a white pure-pulp cone woofer. The mid-range driver is 5.25 inches, also pure-pulp, and polymer-coated. The 1-inch tweeter features a titanium dome, and the speaker has a front-firing port and bass-reflex design.

Made to be paired with the JS-120 speaker stands, the L100 Classics retain a true retro look with genuine satin walnut wood veneer and a vintage Quadrex foam grille. JBL also released two smaller versions, the L82 and L52. Check them all out here at Selby.

So what's new with the MkII remaster? JBL maintained the classic design, of course, but added a few modifications to make the update worthwhile. The L100 and L82 got upgrades (unfortunately the L52 was left out of the loop this time).

JBL reports "significant internal upgrades" to the new MkII Classics, which they are summarizing as the Performance Package. These updates include refining of each speaker driver, a new crossover design to accommodate bi-wiring dual inputs, and new premium gold-plating on the binding post terminals.

The most important alterations are within the drivers, of course. The woofer design has been modified to improve linearity and minimize distortion for a clearer, more accurate sound. The tweeter and midrange drivers have also received refinements that JBL says will boost its performance, although they haven't disclosed exactly what those are. (We trust them).

Both of these updated models are scheduled to release sometime in the second quarter of 2023, so JBL fans, keep your eyes and ears open. And, stay posted for more updates on what we saw coming out of High End Munich 2023.