JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass MK2
Score: 69/100
Hisense HS5100
Score: 74/100Rankings
Hisense HS5100 delivers a budget-friendly 5.1-channel experience with 540 W output and a wireless 6.5-inch subwoofer, offering powerful sound and flexible placement. However, rear speakers must be wired and subwoofer dropouts can affect reliability. It fits well for cost-conscious movie and gaming fans.
The JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass (MK2) is a compact 2.1-channel soundbar with a wireless 6.5" subwoofer delivering 300 W total power and Dolby Digital virtual surround. Its limited channel layout and lack of HDMI inputs restrict full home-theater integration. Ideal for budget-conscious users seeking strong bass in small to medium rooms.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
2.1 | 5.1best | |
300 W | 540 Wbest | |
6.5 inbest | — | |
1 inbest | — | |
— | 6.5 inbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 22 lb | 3.505 lbbest |
1 yearsbest | — | |
— | 6best |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Power & Performance(1) | ||
Total Power Output (W) | 300 W | 540 W |
Audio(1) | ||
Audio Channels | 2.1 | 5.1 |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | 4.2 | 5.3 |
Build & Design(2) | ||
System Weight (lb) | 22.0 lb | 3.5053499658 lb |
System Dimensions (H×W×D) (cm) | 96.5×5.6×8.5 cm cm | 90.2×9.1×6.1 cm cm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers, such as Crutchfield, position the JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass MK2 as the best budget sound bar for 2025, praising its 300W output, compact footprint, and wireless subwoofer that delivers strong bass. JBL's own materials stress the "deep, thrilling bass" and room-filling power, while noting the virtual surround processing via Dolby Digital.
Professional reviewers highlight the HS5100 as a strong value proposition, noting its impressive bass from a compact wireless subwoofer, lightweight construction that fits easily on TV stands, and a suite of sound modes that tailor audio for movies, games and music.
“this will be the last purchase with this company”
Everyday users appreciate the immersive surround sound, the lightweight and space-saving design, and the unexpectedly deep bass from the small subwoofer. However, many complain about intermittent subwoofer drop-outs and the need to wire rear speakers, which detracts from the promised wireless experience.
