”The Synthesis SDR-38 is a home cinema amplifier for those who want to take home cinema audio seriously, and its performance proves that.” ’What Hi-Fi?’ – 5 Star review.

The sound of the cinema, at home
Used in over 50 percent of US movie theatres and thousands of cinemas around the world, JBL loudspeakers and technology is at the forefront of big screen entertainment. With the JBL Synthesis SDR-38, this knowledge is distilled into a thrilling home AV receiver. Packed with power and innovative amp tech, this premium AVR effortlessly delivers the stimulation of cinema – at home. Hi-Res Audio compatibility and high quality components make it ideal for music, too. Comprehensive networking makes this the hub of your entire entertainment system.

Power for thrilling blockbusters
With 120 watts per channel (100 watts with 7 channels driven), there’s power enough for every spinetingling blockbuster and system scenario. From the largest rooms to the least efficient speakers, the JBL Synthesis SDR-38 always has the power to impress. As well as high volume, the power also gives stadium and live concerts the dynamics they deserve – making you feel more like you’re ‘there’, at the concert itself.

Innovative Class-G technology
For the best sound in all circumstances, the Synthesis SDR-38 features innovative Class-G amplifier technology. The first quarter of its power is delivered in pure Class-A. Class-A is renowned for a rich, smooth sound that makes instruments and vocals sound incredibly life-like. Once you go beyond this point, efficient digital amplification kicks in – delivering plenty of power without the huge reserves of power and inefficiency that pure Class-A all the way would demand. Sweet and refined yet a beast when unleashed – this premium JBL AVR gives you the best of all worlds.

Processing for up to 16 channels for even more immersive sound
For the ultimate in sound immersion, the Synthesis SDR-38 offers processing for up to 16 channels. Add additional power amps and you’ll be able to decode Dolby Atmos and DTS:X signals, right up to 9.2.6 – enough for the largest home cinemas.

Unique Dirac systems, including Bass Control, for tailored sound
Dirac Live room correction uses sophisticated technology to get the perfect sound for your room. Using a microphone and dedicated software, it takes multiple readings around your room, feeding the information back to the amplifier for a completely bespoke response (professional set-up recommended). For the ultimate in bottom-end control, especially when using two subwoofers, Bass Control optimises the response for deep, seamlessly integrated bass, wherever you sit in the room.

IMAX Enhanced, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and Auro-3D
With support for the key digital surround sound formats, the Synthesis SDR-38 gives you the widest choice. With IMAX Enhanced certification, you’re guaranteed the most cinematic sound. For fully immersive sound, Dolby Atmos is standard. Classic DTS:X is on board, as is DTS Virtual:X for 3D sound without all the speakers. Auro-3D, meanwhile, gives you the intensity of immersive, 3D sound, from all formats – including TV, gaming and music – without the need for Dolby or DTS encoding.

Upscale any source, with Logic 16
For fully immersive sound from any audio source, even mono, Logic 16 upscales the signal to your current output capacity – right up to 15.1 channels. This includes Dolby formats, meaning you get the most enveloping sound from even the earliest Dolby encoded movies. In addition to Logic 16, DTS Neural:X and Auro-3D upmixers are also on board.

Ready for 8K TV and next-gen gaming
Featuring 8K compliant HDMI sockets, this JBL AVR is ready for the next generation of TV and gaming. The amp passes through 8K/60Hz signals, ensuring you get the full benefit from your 8K TV and video source. The sockets are also compatible with 4K/120Hz signals. You’ll find these on the latest gaming consoles and, when combined with compatible games, they help reduce lag and promote smoother game play.

Supports Dolby Vision and HDR10+
As well as supporting 8K, the SDR-38 also supports a wide range of High Dynamic Range video formats. These include Dolby Vision, HDR10 and HLG. It also supports HDR10+, which enhances picture realism by sending dynamic Meta data to your TV. In short, whatever the format used by the film, game or stream, this JBL supports it.

Made for High Res music – including support for MQA and ROON Ready
Proof that the Synthesis SDR-38 is designed for music lovers comes from the wide range of High Resolution audio format support. MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) compatibility is standard, and the JBL is also ROON Ready. This status means it’s compatible with the award-winning ROON music player – including Hi-Res file playback.

DANTE network audio
With DANTE network audio, you can bridge the gap between residential and commercial applications. All 16 channels of processed audio can be routed on a single CAT5e or CAT6 cable over a standard IP network. DANTE is easy to set up and compatible with DANTE enabled JBL Synthesis amplifiers.

Apple AirPlay 2 and Google Chromecast
With support for Apple AirPlay 2 and Google Chromecast, the SDR-38 works equally as well with Apple and Android devices. Connect to your home system via wi-fi or Ethernet and effortlessly stream music from your smartphone, tablet and laptop.

Play directly from Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect
As well as connecting via AirPlay 2 and Chromecast, the JBL also connects directly to Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect (premium accounts required). This lets you use their dedicated apps and enjoy the full experience from these music streaming market leaders.

MusicLife control app
Take full control of streaming music to your JBL device with the MusicLife control app (available on Apple iOS and Android). Working with the wireless system, it lets you stream music directly from your device as well as servers or computers connected via UPnP (Universal Plug n’ Play). The latest version brings Internet Radio, Podcasts plus streaming from TIDAL and Qobuz. Advanced features, such as library searching, sorting, shuffle and repeat playback are also catered for.

High quality Bluetooth aptX HD
Perfect for parties and when friends are over, Bluetooth provides quick and easy, wireless connectivity for your guests’ smartphone. Simply pair the device and stream any audio from the smartphone or tablet. When used with a compatible source, Bluetooth aptX HD delivers premium sound quality that’s a big step-up for Bluetooth technology.

Internet, DAB and FM – all the radio you need
Internet radio (via the MusicLife app) opens up access to a choice of hundreds of radio stations from around the world. Backing this up, the built-in DAB and FM tuners give wide-ranging access to all your favourite stations, including popular digital only stations, such as BBC 6 Music and 4 Extra.

Connects to the most complex systems
With seven HDMI inputs and three outputs, the SDR-38 easily handles the most complex AV systems. The HDMI 2.1 sockets are compatible with HDCP2.3 and eARC, making them suitable for use with the latest TVs and video sources. Six digital and six analogue inputs are ample for a wide range of audio components – such as CD, streamer and pre-amp equipped turntable. There are also optical digital and analogue outputs – ideal for recording or looping sound through the JBL.

HDMI Zone 2 output
Triple HDMI outputs make the SDR-31 even more versatile. Use two of the outputs within the same room for connecting a TV and projector simultaneously. The third HDMI is independent, making it ideal for sound and vision in a second room.

Get closer than ever to the true sound of cinema, with the JBL Synthesis SDR-38.