Digital Trends

JBL Invader 4.1

June 9th, 2003 | by Ian Bell

Introduction

Last year JBL introduced the Creature speaker system for the home computer market. The overall design of the Creature system was wild and unlike anything available at that time. Apple users in particular were quick to adopt the Creature system for its unique design, with styling similar to the Apple iMac line. This year, JBL is following suit with their new JBL Invader 4.1 speaker system manufactured by Harman Multimedia and available for both IBM compatible and Apple computer systems. Like the JBL Creature speakers, the Invaders have a radical design but get a power boost over their predecessor proving that you can have your cake and eat it too.

Features

The JBL Invader system features 4 satellite speakers each featuring dual Phoenix drivers outputting 12-watts RMS per satellite while the subwoofer outputs 32-watts RMS of power through the 185 mm Magnum powered subwoofer. Total system power is a whopping 80-watts RMS, twice as much as the JBL Creature or Sound Sticks speaker systems. The subwoofer utilizes JBL's APG Technology port design and Magnum Transducer to provide clean low bass. The port on the subwoofer enclosure is front firing creating a technically directional sound. The frequency response of the Invader speaker system ranges from 40 — 20kHz,

Bass and treble management controls are located on the subwoofer while the volume control can be found on the right front satellite speaker. Each satellite has to be positioned standing upright as there is no mounting hardware included with the system. This will limit how you setup your rear surround speakers.