JBL JBL Bar 500 Soundbar Review
Our verdict
The JBL Bar 500 is a strong mid-range pick that packs a 5.1-channel configuration and 590W of rated power into a 40-inch bar with wireless surround, priced at $387. Its 4.5-star rating across 735 reviews backs up its reputation as one of the more well-rounded options in the $300 to $450 bracket.
Check price on AmazonBest for
Buyers who want true 5.1 surround sound without running speaker wires across the room
Skip if
You need HDMI ARC or eARC connectivity, since listed connectivity is Bluetooth only
- Channels 5.1
- Power 590 W
- Speaker type Soundbar
- Connectivity Bluetooth
- Mounting Wall Mount
- Color Black
- Priced 22% above the category median ($316.79 across 62 tracked models)
- Power of 590 W - higher than 79% of the 63 models we track
- Weight of 2.8 lb - lighter than 96% of the 63 models we track
Pros
- 5.1-channel surround in a single-bar system keeps installation clean
- 590W rated power handles medium to large rooms
- 4.5 stars across 735 reviews points to solid real-world reliability
- 2.8-pound bar makes wall mounting easy
- 40-inch width fits most 55-inch and larger TVs
Cons
- Listed connectivity is Bluetooth only, confirm HDMI ARC availability before buying
- At $387, it costs more than entry-level 5.1 soundbars from competitors
- No power rating breakdown per channel is listed
Our scorecard
-
Owner rating4.5/5
4.5 average across 735 owner ratings
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Popularity4.2/5
735 owner reviews, more than most models here
The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other AV receivers and amplifiers, soundbars, home theater speakers, subwoofers, surround sound systems and Blu-ray players we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.
Overview
The JBL Bar 500 competes directly with the most popular mid-range soundbars by offering a 5.1-channel setup at a price well below typical 5.1 systems. The bar itself measures 40 inches, which suits TVs from 55 to 75 inches, and it weighs just 2.8 pounds, making wall mounting straightforward. At 590W rated output, there is genuine output headroom for larger living rooms.
Connectivity is listed as Bluetooth, which is the primary wireless pairing method. Buyers should verify the full input list on the product page, particularly whether HDMI ARC is supported, since that affects TV integration for many households. The wall mount option gives you flexibility to keep the bar at screen level without a furniture shelf.
At $387, the Bar 500 sits in a competitive sweet spot. The 4.5-star score averaged across 735 reviews is notably strong and suggests consistent buyer satisfaction. For anyone stepping up from a basic 2.0 bar to a full surround experience without separate receiver and speaker setups, this is a logical destination.
Specifications
| Channels | 5.1 |
|---|---|
| Power | 590 W |
| Speaker type | Soundbar |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth |
| Mounting | Wall Mount |
| Color | Black |
| Dimensions | 4 X 40 X 2.2 In |
| Weight | 2.8 lb |
Performance notes
Rated at 590W total across a 5.1 configuration. Bar dimensions are 4 x 40 x 2.2 inches and weight is 2.8 pounds. Connectivity listed as Bluetooth. Wall mount compatible. The 5.1 layout implies a wireless subwoofer and satellite speakers are part of the package, which buyers should confirm at purchase.
What buyers say
A 4.5-star average across 735 reviews is among the stronger scores in the mid-range soundbar category. The volume of reviews suggests it has been on the market long enough to build a credible track record, and satisfaction appears high across multiple buyer segments.
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Frequently asked questions
Does the JBL Bar 500 include a subwoofer?
The 5.1 channel designation indicates a subwoofer is part of the system. JBL's Bar 500 system typically ships with a wireless subwoofer and detachable surround speakers, but confirm the full package contents on the current product listing since configurations can vary.
How does the JBL Bar 500 connect to a TV?
The listed connectivity is Bluetooth. Most buyers will want to confirm whether HDMI ARC or optical input is also available, as those connections carry Dolby audio signals from modern TVs more reliably than Bluetooth alone. Check the product specs on Amazon for the complete input list.
Is the JBL Bar 500 worth the price compared to simpler soundbars?
At $387, it costs more than a basic 2.0 bar, but the jump to 5.1 surround is meaningful for movie watching. If your current setup is a single bar with no sub, the difference in immersion is noticeable. If you primarily listen to music or watch news, a simpler bar at lower cost may serve just as well.