ct1395
JBL 500mk2
This is a specific review of the 500 mk2 as all of JBL soundbar reviews seem to be collated all together. There are going to be obvious differences throughout the range -both in price and performance. I opted for the more affordable 500 which is a stunning piece of kit and I would recommend to anyone looking for a mid priced soundbar. This is a Which? Best buy. Actually all JBL soundbars are best buys but the point is that you need a reliable source to help make a judgement as it’s not feasible to listen to multiple products. I can compare this to my Samsung soundbar which is a great little room filler but this JBL copes better in a larger room which was what I was looking for. You can feel the quality on opening the packaging with real weight in both soundbar and subwoofer. I wouldn’t want to ever get a soundbar without a bass box so didn’t consider ones such as the entry level 300 from JBL. I found set up and calibration effortless. Download the app for ease of set up but you will be up and running in 5 minutes. As somebody who did have a wired separates system for years I do understand this is a compromise and the lack of rear speakers is something I do miss. However this offering from JBL is more than acceptable. Watching football on Sky uhd and Dolby Atmos didn’t blow me away in that I didn’t feel part of the crowd but it’s not bad. I did find the commentator dialogue very clear which is great if you are hard of hearing and need that clarity. This is one to consider for those with medium/large living rooms who don’t want to spend a grand on sound (maybe more than the cost of a tv). This will improve your listening experience without breaking the bank. I do envy those with the 1000 series though.