JBL SB595 vs JBL Bar 500 MK2: Soundbar Comparison Guide
Picking a soundbar can feel tricky. Two JBL models often come up in the same search: the SB595 and the Bar 500 MK2.
Both promise great sound for movies and shows. But they take different paths to get there.
The SB595 offers a simple 3.1.2 setup with Dolby Atmos. It suits buyers who want clear, warm sound without extra clutter.
The Bar 500 MK2 steps things up with full 5.1 surround sound. It adds DTS Virtual:X, a bigger subwoofer, and smart features like Alexa and Chromecast.
So which one fits your room and your viewing habits? This guide breaks down the specs, strengths, and weaknesses of each model.
By the end, you will know exactly which JBL soundbar deserves a spot in your living room.
Quick Comparison: JBL SB595 vs JBL Bar 500 MK2
| Feature | JBL SB595 | JBL Bar 500 MK2 |
|---|---|---|
| Channels | 3.1.2 channels | 5.1 channels |
| Power Output | 440W | 750W |
| Subwoofer Size | 6.5″ wireless | 10″ wireless |
| Audio Codec Support | Dolby Atmos only | Dolby Atmos + DTS Virtual:X |
| Surround Speakers | None | True surround speakers |
| Smart Features | Limited | AirPlay, Alexa, Chromecast |
| Sound Character | Balanced, warm sound | Bass-heavy tuning |
| Best For | Budget Atmos accuracy | Full surround enthusiasts |
JBL SB595 Review
- 750W max output power and a 10" wireless subwoofer: Feel every on-screen crash, bang, and boom right in your chest...
- Dolby Atmos: Hear a plane soar overhead. Feel a crowd swarming past you. Or get carried away by the energy of your...
- MultiBeam 3.0: Wherever you're sitting, you'll be in the middle of the action. Our MultiBeam 3.0 delivers a wide...
Last update on 2026-08-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The JBL Cinema SB595 is a 3.1.2 channel soundbar system that brings Dolby Atmos support to rooms seeking immersive audio without complexity. It pairs a sleek soundbar with a 6.5-inch wireless subwoofer, delivering balanced, warm sound that handles movies, shows, and music with ease.
This system shines for viewers who want height channel effects without committing to a full surround setup. The 440W power output proves adequate for most living rooms, filling spaces with clear dialogue and punchy sound effects.
Build quality feels solid, with the subwoofer connecting wirelessly for cleaner cable management.
Real-world performance shows the SB595 excels at reproducing Atmos content like streaming movies and gaming. The warm sound signature flatters dialogue-heavy shows and prevents listening fatigue during long viewing sessions.
However, it lacks true surround speakers, so side-channel immersion remains limited to the soundbar’s processing.
This soundbar suits viewers who prioritize Atmos accuracy over full surround immersion. It works best in medium-sized rooms where you sit relatively close to the screen.
Pros
- Dolby Atmos support for height effects and overhead sound
- Warm, balanced audio that flatters most content
- Wireless subwoofer keeps setup simple and cable-free
- Adequate 440W power for typical living room sizes
Cons
- No DTS codec support limits some movie soundtracks
- No surround speakers means limited side-channel immersion
- Cannot expand beyond 3.1.2 configuration
JBL Bar 500 MK2 Review
- 750W max output power and a 10" wireless subwoofer: Feel every on-screen crash, bang, and boom right in your chest...
- Dolby Atmos: Hear a plane soar overhead. Feel a crowd swarming past you. Or get carried away by the energy of your...
- MultiBeam 3.0: Wherever you're sitting, you'll be in the middle of the action. Our MultiBeam 3.0 delivers a wide...
Last update on 2026-08-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The JBL Bar 500 MK2 is a 5.1 channel soundbar system that delivers serious power for home theater lovers. This setup brings full surround speakers, a massive 10″ wireless subwoofer, and 750W of total output to your living room.
Build quality feels premium, with dedicated left and right surround speakers creating true spatial audio. The subwoofer connects wirelessly, keeping your entertainment space clean and cable-free.
Real-world performance shines with both Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X codec support. You’ll notice immersive height effects and surround channel effects that soundbar-only systems simply cannot match.
Gaming and action movies feel dramatically more engaging with this full surround configuration.
This system suits viewers who want complete home theater immersion without compromise. MultiBeam 3.0 technology optimizes sound for your room, while smart features like AirPlay, Alexa, and Chromecast keep everything connected.
Pros
- Full 5.1 surround setup with true side speakers for genuine immersion
- Powerful 750W output and 10″ subwoofer deliver room-filling bass
- Dual codec support (Dolby Atmos + DTS Virtual:X) covers more content
- Smart connectivity (AirPlay, Alexa, Chromecast) integrates easily with your devices
Cons
- Dialogue clarity can get muddied in some scenes due to bass-heavy tuning
- Midrange frequencies sometimes get overpowered by aggressive bass response
- Requires more setup space than soundbar-only alternatives
Head to Head: Key Differences
The SB595 focuses on Atmos height effects while the Bar 500 MK2 adds full surround speakers. This fundamental difference shapes how each system handles spatial audio in your room.
Power output separates these two significantly. The Bar 500 MK2 delivers 750W compared to the SB595’s 440W, meaning louder, more dynamic sound for larger spaces.
The subwoofer size also matters: 10 inches versus 6.5 inches creates noticeably deeper bass response.
Codec support tells an important story. The SB595 handles Dolby Atmos only, while the Bar 500 MK2 adds DTS Virtual:X for wider content compatibility.
This means the Bar 500 MK2 performs better with gaming and older action films that use DTS audio.
Channel configuration reveals the biggest practical difference. The SB595’s 3.1.2 setup processes surround effects through the main soundbar unit, creating a simulated side-channel experience.
The Bar 500 MK2’s 5.1 configuration includes actual left and right surround speakers, delivering genuine immersion you feel from the sides.
Dialogue clarity presents a tradeoff. The SB595 maintains cleaner midrange performance for speech and dialogue in movies and shows.
The Bar 500 MK2 emphasizes bass impact, which can occasionally mask quieter dialogue moments without proper calibration.
Room size matters for your choice. The SB595 works well in smaller to medium rooms where you sit closer to the screen.
The Bar 500 MK2 excels in larger spaces where its power and surround speakers create enveloping sound from multiple directions.
Smart features favor the Bar 500 MK2, which includes AirPlay, Alexa integration, and Chromecast support. The SB595 keeps things simpler without these connectivity options.
Which One Should You Buy
The JBL Bar 500 MK2 takes the win in this comparison. It delivers true 5.1 surround sound with dedicated speakers, giving you a more immersive experience.
With stronger power output and a larger subwoofer, it handles deep bass better than the SB595. It also supports both Atmos and DTS codecs, plus smart features like AirPlay and Alexa.
The JBL Cinema SB595 still holds its own for buyers who want a simpler setup. It offers solid Atmos performance without the need for extra surround speakers.
Best for each buyer – JBL Cinema SB595: Great for buyers who want space-saving Dolby Atmos sound in a simple 3.1.2 soundbar, without needing full surround immersion. – JBL Bar 500 MK2: Ideal for home theater fans who want true 5.1 surround sound, stronger bass, and smart connectivity like AirPlay, Alexa, and Chromecast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which soundbar handles gaming better?
The JBL Bar 500 MK2 wins for gaming. It supports both Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X, which means you get audio from more game titles.
The 5.1 surround setup with true side speakers puts you in the middle of action scenes. Explosions and directional effects feel more realistic around you.
The SB595 only supports Dolby Atmos. Many games use DTS audio, so you’ll miss out on that immersive experience.
The soundbar-only design also means less spatial awareness during gameplay.
Do I need the larger subwoofer?
It depends on your room size and music taste. The Bar 500 MK2’s 10 inch subwoofer delivers deeper, more powerful bass.
It fills larger rooms easily and handles action movies with impact.
The SB595’s 6.5 inch subwoofer works fine for smaller to medium rooms. If you watch mostly dialogue heavy content or listen to podcasts, you won’t miss the extra size.
Can the SB595 do everything the Bar 500 MK2 does?
No. The SB595 focuses on height channels for Atmos effects.
It cannot create true left and right surround immersion like the Bar 500 MK2 does. The Bar 500 MK2 has actual surround speakers that sit beside your seating area.
Think of it this way: SB595 adds sound from above. Bar 500 MK2 adds sound from above, left, and right.
More directions mean more immersion.
Which one needs less space?
The SB595 takes up less room. It’s a 3.1.2 soundbar system without separate surround speakers.
You just place the main bar and subwoofer. Perfect for smaller living rooms or apartments.
The Bar 500 MK2 requires space for the main soundbar, subwoofer, and two surround speakers. Plan extra room on your side tables or shelves.
Sili is a tech reviewer who cuts through the hype to find AI tools and gadgets that make life easier. She shares honest reviews and simple guides for everyday tech users.
