Garmin unveils JL Audio MediaMaster 55 and 55-HR source units

July 17, 2024 (from the Garmin newsroom)

Integrated into the helm or hidden away, the latest additions bring advanced audio features to your boat, SxS or UTV

Garmin Australasia today announced the JL Audio^® MediaMaster^® 55 and 55-HR next-gen marine and powersports source units with superior audio quality. The latest MediaMaster source units are now available in two options—the MM55 with an LCD display and built-in controls mounts at the helm while the MM55-HR is hidden away and controlled by a compatible multifunction display (MFD).

A refreshed look

Rugged and weatherproof, the MM55 introduces an updated design with a silicon button pad and new rotary knob. The 2.8-inch full-color LCD display boasts larger icons, simplified menus and a refreshed color palette, while still offering separate day/night lighting themes for greater visibility, even in bright sunlight.

Space-saving solution

Designed to simplify and save space at the helm, the MM55-HR can be mounted in a variety of areas around the boat or vehicle, such as inside the console, storage lockers, and other concealed compartments.

Superior sound

The MM55 and MM55-HR feature three zones of preamp outputs with a dedicated subwoofer output for each zone. They are also equipped with a built-in amplifier with low-impedance stability, providing the ability to drive multiple speakers per channel. Built for non-stop playback of the best tunes, both the MM55 and MM55-HR were designed for digital media content with multiple connectivity options, including a digital AM/FM tuner, DAB+ radio, Bluetooth^® connectivity, analog AUX input and USB connection with charging.  

With the addition of advanced Bluetooth Low Energy technology, users can now control their MM55 or MM55-HR with the free MediaMaster Remote App from their compatible smartphone or use the latest MediaMaster wireless remote controller (MMR-25W). Using the NMEA 2000 network, the source units can also be controlled with a compatible MFD. For an advanced user experience, the optional MMA-1-HTML interface can generate themed navigation and controls on the MFD.

Available now, the MediaMaster 55 has a Recommended Retail Price of $699.00 while the MediaMaster 55-HR has a Recommended Retail Price of $599.00 and will be available in August.

Guided by a philosophy that great audio has real value, Garmin and its brands – JL Audio and Fusion – are committed to developing and delivering world-class audio entertainment solutions, including high-performance stereos, speakers, amplifiers, subwoofers and other audio components for the marine, automotive, RV, powersports and home markets.

Key Features

EASY TO READ: The MM55 source unit offers a bright, easy-to-read 2.8” (71 mm) full-color display with a high-contrast design for enhanced viewing while in motion.
INTUITIVE INTERFACE: The MM55 source unit has an easy-to-use interface with backlit controls makes for easy operation day or night.
DAY AND NIGHT LIGHTING: Independent settings for day and night themes with separate brightness controls for the display, buttons, plus optional wired remotes are available.
HIDEAWAY DESIGN: The MM55-HR device unit is engineered to operate behind the scenes as a concealed receiver for integrated vessel applications.
NINE CHANNELS (IMPROVED): The source units include nine channels of audiophile-quality preamp outputs (4-volt RMS) from three separate audio zones, each with a dedicated subwoofer output.
FEATURE AND CONTROL OPTIONS: Independent feature and control options for each audio zone include volume level, subwoofer level, onboard crossovers, volume limit, tone controls and zone naming.
BUILT-IN AMPLIFIER: The built-in amplifier generates 100 watts (25 watts RMS x 4) of high-fidelity sound for zones 1 and 2.
CONNECTIVITY: The source units are built for today’s modern media with global AM/FM and DAB+ Radio tuners, the ability to stream audio with BLUETOOTH® wireless technology, separate AUX and USB inputs, plus functionality control via NMEA 2000® networks, and compatibility with a free to download MediaMaster® Remote app using your compatible wireless device.
RUGGED DESIGN (IMPROVED): The source units have a rugged (IP67-rated) design to withstand the elements.
DAB+(NEW): Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) is built-in for use in countries where the format is supported.