JBL CS6100 Conclusion and Ratings

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With an MSRP of $999, the JBL CS6100 home cinema speaker package is a tad pricey, and there is a lot of competition at this level. The only real issue I think that needs correcting is the tweeter and/or the crossover between the midrange and tweeter. At this price range, JBL should really be using a better quality tweeter. Also, the use of T-nuts and a little more internal bracing on the subwoofer cabinet would be welcome. A slightly larger base on the center channel would be nice to see as well and would stabilize the speaker. If movies and not music will be the prime concern then this system is sure to please and can easily be recommended on that basis. With a good build quality, very stylish looks, decent subwoofer performance, and attention to some small details, this system should serve those well who are ready to take plunge and add a 5.1 speaker system to their new or existing display.

The Score Card

The scoring below is based on each piece of equipment doing the duty it is designed for. The numbers are weighed heavily with respect to the individual cost of each unit, thus giving a rating roughly equal to:

Performance × Price Factor/Value = Rating

Audioholics.com note: The ratings indicated below are based on subjective listening and objective testing of the product in question. The rating scale is based on performance/value ratio. If you notice better performing products in future reviews that have lower numbers in certain areas, be aware that the value factor is most likely the culprit. Other Audioholics reviewers may rate products solely based on performance, and each reviewer has his/her own system for ratings.

Audioholics Rating Scale

  • StarStarStarStarStar — Excellent
  • StarStarStarStar — Very Good
  • StarStarStar — Good
  • StarStar — Fair
  • Star — Poor
MetricRating
Build QualityStarStarStar
AppearanceStarStarStarStarStar
Treble ExtensionStarStarStarStar
Treble SmoothnessStarStarStar
Midrange AccuracyStarStarStar
Bass ExtensionStarStarStar
Bass AccuracyStarStarStar
ImagingStarStarStarStar
SoundstageStarStarStar
Dynamic RangeStarStarStar
Fit and FinishStarStarStarStarStar
PerformanceStarStarStarhalf-star
ValueStarStarStar
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