JBL Bar 800 Mk1 as Roon Endpoint, Chromecast Build-In

[dadk0 (Daniel S.)]

Hey guys,

I`m planning to buy a soundbar for my living room TV setup. The Mk1 Version of the JBL Bar 800, with real Dolby True Atmos and detachable rear speakers is in Sale now. In the specs, the Google Chromecast feature is mentioned. Possible to stream music from my Roon Server to the Soundbar without any additional Hardware ? Would be an absolute selling point for me.

[vadim]

Hello @dadk0

Thank you for reaching Roon support.

Yes — the JBL Bar 800 (Mk1) includes Google Chromecast, so you can stream to it from your Roon Server without any additional hardware. Roon will see it as a Chromecast-enabled device and you’ll be able to play music to it just like any other Cast endpoint. AirPlay will also work if you’re using Apple devices.

That said, you may also want to look at the JBL Bar 800 MK2.
Unlike the Mk1, the MK2 is officially Roon Ready, which means it uses RAAT instead of Chromecast. RAAT provides better synchronization, higher stability, and overall improved audio performance when used with Roon.

Both models will work — but the MK2 will offer the best Roon experience.

Let us know if you have any questions!

[dadk0 (Daniel S.)]

Puhh, 12 min from question to answer
@vadim thanks for the Info. I think the Mk1 is purchased. And yes, I saw the the Mk2 is Roon Ready, but its more expensive. To expensive for me and my usecase. Most time I`m listening through my headphone setup.

[vadim]

Hello @dadk0

Thank you for the update.

Money is always the deciding factor — and the Mk1 is still a perfectly solid choice.
With Chromecast built-in, it will work with Roon.

If you have any other questions while setting it up, just let us know!