JBL SB595 vs LG S70TR: Which Soundbar Delivers Better Surround Sound?
Picking a soundbar can feel tricky. Two strong options often come up: the JBL SB595 and the LG S70TR.
Both models promise better sound than your TV speakers. But they take different paths to get there.
The JBL SB595 offers a compact 3.1.2 channel setup with Dolby Atmos support. It focuses on balanced, warm sound for everyday viewing.
The LG S70TR steps things up with a 5.1.1 channel system. It adds true rear speakers and DTS:X support for a more immersive experience.
So which one fits your room better? This guide breaks down specs, strengths, and weaknesses side by side.
You will see how channel count, speaker placement, and codec support affect real world performance. By the end, you will know exactly which soundbar matches your viewing habits.
Quick Comparison: JBL SB595 vs LG S70TR
| Feature | JBL SB595 | LG S70TR |
|---|---|---|
| Channel Configuration | 3.1.2 channels | 5.1.1 channels |
| Power Output | 440W | Not specified |
| Speaker Count | Fewer drivers | 9-11 speakers |
| Subwoofer | 6.5″ wireless subwoofer | Wireless subwoofer |
| Rear Speakers | Not included | Included wireless rear speakers |
| Audio Codec Support | Dolby Atmos only | Dolby Atmos + DTS:X |
| Surround Sound Quality | Balanced, warm sound | Superior true surround sound |
| Dimensions/Footprint | Compact size | 39.9″ x 17.9″ x 10.2″ |
JBL SB595 Review
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Last update on 2026-09-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The JBL SB595 is a compact 3.1.2 soundbar built for viewers who want clean, balanced audio without overwhelming their living space. It delivers Dolby Atmos support to add height and immersion to movies and shows.
This model packs 440W of power and includes a 6.5-inch wireless subwoofer that handles bass duties effectively. The soundbar itself keeps a slim profile, making it easy to fit under most TV stands or mount on walls.
Sound quality leans toward warm and smooth reproduction rather than aggressive impact. It handles dialogue clearly and renders music with decent separation, so streaming content and gaming both feel engaging.
The JBL SB595 works best for smaller to medium rooms where you don’t need surround speakers or complex setups. If you value simplicity and balanced sound over surround immersion, this bar delivers solid everyday performance.
Pros
- Compact design fits tight spaces and blends with most living rooms
- Dolby Atmos support adds vertical sound dimension for movies
- Wireless subwoofer eliminates cable clutter behind your TV
- Warm, balanced sound signature suits music and dialogue equally well
Cons
- No DTS codec support limits compatibility with some streaming and disc content
- Fewer total channels means less surround immersion than larger systems
- No dedicated rear speakers for true surround sound experience
LG S70TR Review
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Last update on 2026-09-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The LG S70TR is a 5.1.1 channel soundbar system that delivers authentic surround sound for your living room. This model includes a wireless subwoofer plus dedicated rear speakers, giving you true spatial audio rather than simulated effects.
You get 9-11 total speakers working together to fill your room with immersive sound. The system supports both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X codecs, so you can enjoy advanced audio from most streaming services and Blu-ray discs.
Setup remains straightforward thanks to wireless connectivity for the subwoofer and rear speakers. Powerful bass response handles action scenes and music without distortion, even at higher volumes.
This soundbar suits viewers who want genuine surround channels and multi-codec flexibility. It performs best in medium to larger rooms where rear speaker placement makes sense.
Pros
- True 5.1.1 surround configuration with dedicated rear speakers for authentic spatial sound
- Supports both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for wider content compatibility
- Wireless subwoofer and rear speakers eliminate cable runs across your room
- Handles high volumes cleanly without audio fatigue
Cons
- Larger footprint (39.9″ x 17.9″ x 10.2″) requires more wall or furniture space
- Heavier unit at 33.9 lbs makes wall mounting more involved
- Rear speaker placement needs planning in smaller rooms
Head to Head: Key Differences
The channel difference shapes how sound reaches your ears. JBL SB595 uses 3.1.2 channels while LG S70TR delivers 5.1.1 channels, meaning LG includes true left and right surround speakers that JBL lacks entirely.
When movies have sound moving behind you, the LG creates that effect with dedicated rear speakers. The JBL attempts height effects through its two upward-firing drivers but cannot replicate authentic surround placement.
Codec support matters more than many people realize. LG S70TR plays both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X content without limitation, while JBL SB595 only handles Dolby Atmos and completely skips DTS support.
If you stream or own movies with DTS soundtracks, the LG gives you full access while the JBL cannot decode them.
The speaker count tells part of the story. LG packs 9 to 11 individual speakers across the main bar, subwoofer, and rear units, creating more sound sources for precise audio placement.
JBL uses fewer drivers concentrated in the main soundbar and subwoofer combination.
Physical footprint differs significantly between these models. LG S70TR measures 39.9 inches wide and weighs 33.9 pounds with its rear speakers included, requiring more wall space and setup effort.
JBL SB595 stays more compact and easier to position in tight living rooms.
Bass performance leans different directions too. Both include wireless subwoofers, but LG’s system generates noticeably deeper, more powerful bass response for action movies and music.
JBL prioritizes balanced, controlled low frequencies that blend smoothly rather than dominate.
Choose LG S70TR for immersive surround sound and maximum content compatibility. Pick JBL SB595 when space matters and you prefer clean, straightforward audio without rear speakers.
Which One Should You Buy
The LG S70TR takes the win in this comparison. It delivers true 5.1.1 surround sound with dedicated rear speakers and more total drivers than the JBL SB595.
Its broader codec support seals the deal. You get both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, giving you more flexibility across different content sources.
The JBL SB595 still shines for its simplicity. It offers warm, balanced sound without the hassle of extra rear speakers.
Best for each buyer
- JBL SB595: Best for users who want a compact, simple setup with balanced and warm sound, plus Dolby Atmos support, without needing rear surround speakers.
- LG S70TR: Best for users who want authentic multi-channel surround sound with rear speakers and multi-codec flexibility for a truly immersive home theater experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which soundbar handles small living rooms better?
The JBL SB595 wins for compact spaces. It measures smaller and weighs less, so it fits snugly under most TVs without dominating your room.
The LG S70TR is larger and heavier, requiring more floor space for the subwoofer and rear speakers.
If your living room feels tight, the JBL keeps things simple and unobtrusive.
Do I need rear speakers for good sound?
Dedicated rear speakers make a real difference for movie watching. The LG S70TR includes them, so you hear sounds moving around your entire room.
The JBL SB595 cannot create that surround effect because it lacks rear channels.
For action movies and gaming, rear speakers add immersion. For music and basic TV, you may not miss them.
What if my movies use DTS soundtracks?
The LG S70TR plays DTS:X content without issues. The JBL SB595 cannot decode DTS at all, so those soundtracks play in basic stereo instead.
Check your movie collection. If you own DTS Blu rays or stream DTS content regularly, the LG ensures you get the full experience.
Should I pick based on sound warmth or channel count?
The JBL SB595 delivers warm, balanced audio that feels natural for music and dialogue. The LG S70TR focuses on spatial surround sound with more channels working together.
Choose the JBL if you listen to music often and want a cozy sound. Pick the LG if movies and shows matter most and you want sound coming from all directions.
Can both soundbars handle Dolby Atmos?
Yes, both support Dolby Atmos. This adds height effects so sound moves above you during compatible movies.
The difference is that the LG also adds DTS:X support, giving you more codec options overall.
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.
