The JBL Bar 500 and Bar 700 lines are popular choices for upgrading home theater audio. This article compares six key JBL models in the “Bar 500/700” family, focusing on features, surround capabilities, and connectivity to help you decide which setup fits your room. Below is a quick overview followed by in-depth product sections and a buying guide.
| Model | Channel | Key Feature | Power | Surround |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bar 700 | 5.1 | Detachable surround speakers | Approx. 700 W total | Yes |
| Bar 500 | 5.1 | MultiBeam and Dolby Atmos | Approx. 590 W total | Yes (built-in) |
| Bar 500 (Renewed) | 5.1 | Dolby Atmos, MultiBeam | 590 W total | Yes |
| Bar 500 (Standard) | 5.1 | MultiBeam and Atmos | 590 W total | Yes |
| Bar 500 Pro Bundle | 5.1 | Bundle with 10″ subwoofer and HDMI cable | 590 W total | Yes |
JBL Bar 500 Renewed: 5.1 With MultiBeam and Dolby Atmos
The JBL Bar 500 Renewed combines a 5.1-channel layout with MultiBeam Surround and Dolby Atmos for immersive, theater-like sound. With a total power output around 590 watts, it delivers robust dialogue clarity and dynamic bass without requiring additional rear speakers. Built-in Wi‑Fi supports AirPlay, Alexa Multi-Room Music, and Chromecast, enabling broad streaming options and easy software updates. This model emphasizes a balance of room-filling sound and smart connectivity for quick setup in living rooms or home theaters.
JBL Bar 500: Standard 5.1 with MultiBeam and Atmos
Similar to the renewed model, this Bar 500 offers Dolby Atmos and MultiBeam Surround Sound to create immersive effects from multiple directions. It includes built-in Wi‑Fi with AirPlay, Alexa Multi-Room Music, and Chromecast for seamless streaming across services. The 590-watt system power supports movies, games, and music with room-filling clarity and a balanced soundtrack suitable for medium-sized living rooms.
JBL Bar 700: Detachable Surround Speakers
The Bar 700 enhances the home theater with detachable surround speakers, enabling true wireless rear-channel sound for a 3D listening experience. Dolby Atmos surrounds you with elevated height effects, while built-in Wi‑Fi (AirPlay, Alexa MRM, Chromecast) enables access to hundreds of streaming services and automatic firmware updates. The system targets users who want cinema-like audio without complicated installation or speaker wiring.
JBL Bar 500: TV Soundbar With Wireless Subwoofer
This Bar 500 setup emphasizes a complete 5.1 system with a dedicated wireless subwoofer for deeper bass and more impactful explosions and music. Dolby Atmos and MultiBeam technology help create a sense of space, while built-in Wi‑Fi and streaming support keep entertainment options broad. It’s a straightforward option for users who want a simple, single-room upgrade with strong bass response and clear dialog.
JBL Bar 500 Pro Bundle: 10″ Subwoofer + 8K HDMI Cable
The Bar 500 Pro Bundle adds a 10-inch wireless subwoofer and an 8K HDMI 2.0b cable, enhancing bass performance and ensuring high-speed video signal integrity for compatible sources. The soundbar itself continues to deliver Dolby Atmos and MultiBeam processing, with smart connectivity options for streaming services and voice-assistant features. This bundle is ideal for buyers seeking a ready-to-enjoy premium sound setup with strong bass impact.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations When Choosing Between Bar 500 and Bar 700
- Room size and listening distance: Bar 700’s detachable surround speakers can deliver a more expansive surround environment in larger rooms, while Bar 500 excels in compact spaces with strong front-channel performance.
- Surround capabilities: If you want true rear-channel sound without clutter, Bar 700’s wireless surrounds provide a more immersive experience; Bar 500 relies on built-in processing to simulate space and height effects.
- Power output: Bar 700 generally offers higher total system output, which can translate to louder, more detailed playback for films with dynamic soundtracks. Bar 500 remains a robust option for most living rooms.
- Connectivity and ecosystems: All models support AirPlay, Chromecast, and Alexa Multi-Room Music. Consider which ecosystem you prefer for streaming and smart home integration.
- Subwoofer presence: Some Bar 500 packages include a wireless subwoofer, delivering deeper bass. If bass is a priority, verify whether the bundle includes a dedicated sub or if you’ll need to add one separately.
- Ease of setup: Detachable surrounds on Bar 700 may require more initial placement planning, while Bar 500 configurations are generally simpler to install with a single soundbar and optional sub.
- Future-proofing: Built-in Wi‑Fi supports automatic software updates, ensuring feature enhancements over time for all the listed models.
- Content type and usage: For movies with rich effects and action, Dolby Atmos and MultiBeam processing benefit from a system designed to maximize height and width cues. For casual TV watching and music, Bar 500 provides strong, reliable performance with straightforward controls.