Sonos Beam Gen 2
Score: 79/100
JBL Bar 500
Score: 77/100Rankings
The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is a compact smart soundbar that delivers virtual 3.0.2 Dolby Atmos and integrates Alexa and Google Assistant. Its lack of Bluetooth and iOS-only Trueplay tuning are notable trade-offs. Best suited for small-to-medium rooms where Wi-Fi streaming and voice control are priorities.
The JBL Bar 500 offers a 5.1-channel experience with 590 W total power, Dolby Atmos and MultiBeam virtual surround, plus Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity. It misses HDMI eARC and true rear speakers, which can limit high-end audio fidelity. Best suited for apartment dwellers wanting immersive sound without the complexity of multiple speakers.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
5 | 5.1best | |
— | 590 Wbest | |
— | 10.24 inbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 6.275 lb | 6.173 lbbest |
1 yearsbest | 1 yearsbest | |
2 | 4best |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio(1) | ||
Audio Channels | 5 | 5.1 |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | None | 5.0 |
General(1) | ||
Included Accessories | 2 | 4 |
Build & Design(2) | ||
System Weight (lb) | 6.275 lb | 6.1729 lb |
System Dimensions (H×W×D) (cm) | 6.86 x 65.02 x 9.91 cm cm | 101.7×5.6×10.35 cm cm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Beam's warm mids, crisp highs, and the upgraded perforated grille, while highlighting its fast quad-core processor that enables virtual 3.0.2 Dolby Atmos without a separate sub. They see it as an ideal starter soundbar that pairs well with additional Sonos speakers for a full 5.1 system, though they note the lack of Bluetooth and iOS-only Trueplay as drawbacks compared with some rivals.
Everyday users praise the straightforward Sonos app setup, built-in Alexa/Google voice control, and the ability to get immersive Atmos-style sound in compact spaces. Common frustrations revolve around the need for an iOS device for Trueplay tuning, the missing Bluetooth option, and the extra cost of buying a Sonos Sub for deeper bass.
Professional reviewers commend the JBL Bar 500 for its massive 590 W output, deep 35 Hz bass from the 10-inch wireless subwoofer, and the combination of MultiBeam™ and Dolby Atmos that creates convincing 3D sound without rear speakers. They also highlight PureVoice for crystal-clear dialogue and praise the easy wireless subwoofer setup via the JBL One app. However, they note the lack of HDMI eARC, limited input selection, and the inherent limitations of virtual surround compared to true discrete rear channels.
Everyday users love the thundering bass, immersive Atmos height effects, and clear dialogue that make movies and games more engaging. Common complaints focus on occasional Bluetooth lag, subwoofer hum when placed poorly, limited HDMI/optical inputs, and the desire for rear speakers to complete a true surround experience.
“The thundering bass from the 10" sub makes movies feel like a theater.”
“PureVoice makes dialogue crystal clear, so I never have to crank up the volume.”
Choose JBL for raw power and bass; choose Sonos for a unified smart-home audio ecosystem.
