Vizio SB36514-G6
Score: 80/100
JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass MK2
Score: 69/100Rankings
The VIZIO SB36514-G6 is a 5.1.4 home-theater system featuring a wireless 6-inch subwoofer, Wi-Fi, Chromecast and Google Assistant for comprehensive streaming. Its relatively narrow front soundstage and lack of DTS X support are trade-offs. Suited for small-to-medium rooms wanting true surround with easy setup.
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 | | |
|---|---|---|
— | 2.1best | |
— | 300 Wbest | |
— | 6.5 inbest | |
— | 1 inbest | |
6 inbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.001 lbbest | 22 lb |
— | 1 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Build & Design(2) | ||
System Weight (lb) | 0.000625 lb | 22.0 lb |
System Dimensions (H×W×D) (cm) | 8.10×6.35×91.44 cm cm | 96.5×5.6×8.5 cm cm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Vizio SB36514-G6 for its rich, detailed audio, immersive 3D Atmos experience, and hassle-free installation with all required accessories. They also note its effective upmixing capabilities and value-focused pricing, while pointing out the narrow front soundstage, non-backlit remote, and missing DTS X support as drawbacks.
Everyday users generally praise the bold bass, true surround and height effects, and the convenience of built-in Chromecast and Bluetooth streaming. Recurring criticisms focus on the remote's dim LCD, the limited front soundstage due to the 36-inch bar, and the lack of advanced sound-mode options.
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.
