At a Glance
- 750 W total output from the bar and wireless subwoofer.
- 10-inch driver in the subwoofer reaches a 40-Hz low-end floor.
- Supports Dolby Atmos, HDR10+, Dolby Vision pass-through and multiple casting methods.
Why it matters: It lets apartment dwellers enjoy cinema-style sound without rear speakers or a big budget.
For those who crave movie-grade audio but can’t fit a full surround-sound system, JBL’s new Bar 500MK2 promises a surprisingly powerful, compact solution that slides neatly under most TVs.
Design & Placement
The Bar 500MK2 is a slim, oblong rectangle that sits just 2 inches high beneath the TV bezel, making it a good fit for a wide range of furniture styles. It comes with a large wireless subwoofer that can be positioned wherever an outlet is available, though the reviewer found the spot next to the TV most effective.
- Compact main unit: 2-inch height, oblong shape.
- Hidden controls: volume and input buttons are central; remote provides settings.
- LED status screen inside the front grille displays clear, plain-English messages.
Sound Performance
In a small test room, the 750-watt system delivers immersive sound, with Dolby Atmos effects that feel like real-world movement. Even without rear speakers, the bar’s internal speakers bounce sound to create a sense of depth.
- Immersive Atmos: Works well in games like Gran Turismo 7 and movies such as Ford Vs. Ferrari.
- PureVoice 2.0: Raises dialogue based on ambient sound and volume level, useful for hard-of-hearing listeners.
- Balanced bass: 10-inch driver gives warm, slower sub-100 Hz response; bright highs are defined but not harsh.
| Item | Dimensions | Weight | Driver |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subwoofer | 13 × 16 in | 18 lb | 10-inch |
| Main Bar | oblong, 2 in. high | – | – |
Connectivity & Features
The Bar 500MK2 supports every major casting method, making it easy to stream audio from any phone. It also includes HDR10+ and Dolby Vision pass-through, so you can connect disc players or gaming consoles without losing picture quality.
- AirPlay
- Google Cast
- Spotify Connect
- Tidal Connect
- Roon Ready
Value & Recommendation
Priced under $500, the Bar 500MK2 offers a complete surround-sound experience without rear speakers, making it an ideal choice for medium-sized or smaller rooms.
Key Takeaways
- Compact, high-power: 750 W output in a bar that fits under most TVs.
- Deep bass: 10-inch subwoofer delivers warm, low-end.
- Versatile connectivity: Supports all major casting platforms and pass-through for HDR10+/Dolby Vision.
For anyone looking to upgrade a flat-screen TV’s audio without the bulk of a full surround system, the JBL Bar 500MK2 delivers an impressive, cinema-grade experience in a surprisingly small footprint.
