JBL has ventured into innovative audio gear with two amplifiers enhanced by artificial intelligence for practice purposes. The BandBox Solo and BandBox Trio feature integrated Stem AI technology, which enables users to isolate or eliminate specific vocal tracks and instrument parts from audio played via Bluetooth. For instance, a novice electric guitar player practicing the classic track 'Stairway to Heaven' could theoretically mute Jimmy Page's guitar section, allowing focused improvement alongside the remaining ensemble elements.
Priced at $250, the BandBox Solo caters to solo performers and includes one input for guitar or microphone. In contrast, the $600 BandBox Trio accommodates groups with support for as many as four instrument connections. The Trio offers additional conveniences absent in the Solo model, such as physical control buttons to minimize app dependency and a display screen.
Through the JBL One mobile application, users can apply various filters simulating contemporary and classic amplifier tones. The app also provides audio effects including phaser, chorus, and reverb, along with a pitch adjustment tool and a tuning utility. Furthermore, an integrated looping function for multi-layer recording is planned for release through a firmware update this October.
According to JBL, the BandBox Solo delivers up to six hours of operation on a single charge. The BandBox Trio extends to 10 hours of usage, and its battery is user-replaceable, permitting the purchase of an extra unit—though the cost remains undisclosed—to potentially extend runtime to 20 hours.
Pre-orders for the $250 BandBox Solo and $600 BandBox Trio begin immediately on JBL's official site, with delivery and availability at other retailers set for March 1.