As the lights dimmed and the movie started, I settled into my favorite armchair. I was excited to watch the latest blockbuster on my home theater. But, the sound was just okay, lacking depth and immersion.
That all changed when I got the JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam. It’s a compact yet powerful 5.0 channel soundbar. It has changed how I watch movies.
Key Takeaways
- Compact 5.0 channel soundbar with JBL MultiBeam technology
- Boxy sound profile with added punch and boom, but struggles with deep low-bass
- Supports Virtual Dolby Atmos for enhanced surround sound experience
- Offers various connectivity options, including Wi-Fi streaming, Chromecast, and AirPlay
- Delivers impressive sound quality, particularlly for action movie scenes
Overview of JBL 5.0ch Soundbar
The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam is a top-notch compact soundbar. It offers an immersive sound experience. With its sleek design, it fits perfectly in any space.
Key Features and Specifications
The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam has a powerful audio setup. It has five 48mm racetrack drivers and two 3-inch passive radiators. A Class D amplifier powers it, delivering 250 watts of sound.
The soundbar’s frequency range is from 50Hz to 20kHz. This ensures a balanced sound.
What’s in the Box
The package includes the JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam soundbar, a compact remote, and cables. You get an HDMI and an optical digital audio cable. This makes setting up your JBL speaker easy.
Design and Build Quality
The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam has a sleek design. It measures 5.8 x 71 x 10cm and weighs 2.8kg. Its gun-metal finish and grille-covered front look modern.
The build quality is top-notch. It shows JBL’s attention to detail.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range | 50Hz – 20kHz |
| Power Output | 5x 50W (250W total) |
| Dimensions | 5.8 x 71 x 10cm |
| Weight | 2.8kg |
The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam is a great compact speaker. It has a solid build, sleek design, and advanced features. It offers an immersive sound experience in a small package.
Understanding MultiBeam Technology
The JBL 5.0ch Soundbar uses MultiBeam technology for an immersive surround sound experience. It doesn’t need extra speakers. The soundbar’s five drivers and four passive radiators spread sound well, making it seem bigger.
MultiBeam aims to make sound feel like it’s all around you. It does this by placing drivers and radiators just right. This way, sound bounces off walls, making the soundstage wider and more dynamic.
“The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam soundbar was released in April 2021 with a price tag of $349, featuring five drivers and four passive radiators to deliver an engaging surround sound experience.”
One big plus of MultiBeam is it creates a virtual surround sound without rear or overhead speakers. This makes the JBL 5.0ch Soundbar great for those who want a better audio system without a lot of setup or mess.
The MultiBeam tech in the JBL 5.0ch Soundbar aims to give you a movie-like audio experience. It makes sound wider and more immersive for movies, TV, and music. By smartly placing drivers and radiators, it creates an engaging surround sound environment, making your home entertainment come alive.
Sound Performance and Audio Quality
The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam soundbar has a sound profile that’s boxy but with great bass. It doesn’t do well with deep bass, but it’s great at making voices clear. This is perfect for watching movies at home.
Bass Response and Audio Clarity
The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam might not have the best low-end sound. But it makes up for it with strong mid-range sound. It’s great for home theater because it makes voices clear.
The soundbar also has passive radiators to boost the bass. This makes the sound more enjoyable, even without deep bass.
Volume Levels and Sound Distribution
The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam can get very loud, filling big rooms with sound. Its MultiBeam technology spreads the sound out, making it feel wider and more immersive. This is great for watching movies, TV shows, and listening to music.
Room Calibration Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Automatic MultiBeam Calibration | The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam has a feature that adjusts the sound to fit your room. It makes the surround sound better for your space. |
| Auto Volume Mode | This feature keeps the volume steady between different programs. It prevents loud or quiet moments suddenly. |
These features on the JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam improve the audio quality. They make your home theater sound more immersive and tailored to you.
Connectivity Options and Setup Process
The JBL 5.0ch Soundbar has many ways to connect, making it easy to fit into your home. It uses Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless sound from your devices. It also supports Wi-Fi for easy streaming with Chromecast, AirPlay, and Amazon Multi Room Music.
It has HDMI eARC, HDMI input, optical digital, and USB-A ports for physical connections. This means you can connect your TV, gaming consoles, and more to the soundbar. It gives you a full audio experience.
| Connectivity | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Wireless | Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi (Chromecast, AirPlay, Amazon Multi Room Music) |
| Wired | HDMI eARC, HDMI input, Optical digital, USB-A |
Setting up the JBL 5.0ch Soundbar is easy thanks to its design. It has an automatic calibration system. This adjusts the sound for your room’s acoustics.
It also works with voice assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri. This lets you control it with voice commands. It makes setting it up even easier.
The remote control has limited buttons, and input mechanics might take some getting used to. But overall, setting up the JBL 5.0ch Soundbar is smooth. You can quickly enjoy your favorite content.
Smart Features and Voice Assistant Compatibility
The JBL Bar 1300X soundbar comes with smart features for better convenience. It connects easily to your network via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. You can stream music from many streaming services.
It also works with voice assistants. Pair it with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple’s Siri. Then, control your entertainment with just your voice.
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Integration
The JBL Bar 1300X has strong Wi-Fi connectivity. It meets the latest IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac standards. This means you get stable wireless connections for streaming music.
It also has Bluetooth version 4.2. This lets you pair devices like smartphones and tablets for wireless audio.
Streaming Capabilities
The JBL Bar 1300X’s smart features let you access many streaming services. Stream your favorite music, podcasts, and more. It makes your home entertainment complete.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Wi-Fi Connectivity | IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2.4GHz/5GHz) |
| Bluetooth Version | 4.2 with A2DP 1.2 and AVRCP 1.5 profiles |
| Supported Streaming Services | Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Tidal, and more |
“The JBL Bar 1300X’s seamless integration of smart features and voice assistant compatibility elevates the home entertainment experience, making it a versatile and user-friendly choice for discerning audio enthusiasts.”
Remote Control and User Interface
The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam soundbar has a simple remote control. It might seem a bit tricky at first. But, it lets you access many features by pressing different buttons together.
On top of the soundbar, you’ll find basic controls. These include volume, power, and source selection. You can also use the front display to see the soundbar’s status and settings easily.
| Remote Control Features | Soundbar Top Controls |
|---|---|
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The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam has an easy-to-use interface. The remote and top controls work together smoothly. Even though the remote takes some time to get used to, managing your audio is straightforward.
Virtual Dolby Atmos Experience
The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam soundbar offers a virtual Dolby Atmos experience. It gives you an immersive surround sound without needing extra height speakers. It uses a special technique to make the sound feel more 3D.
Surround Sound Performance
The soundbar has five racetrack-style drivers for good surround sound. The virtual Dolby Atmos makes the sound feel more immersive. But, it might not be as detailed as with dedicated rear speakers.
Height Channel Simulation
The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam simulates height channels with its drivers. It doesn’t perfectly mimic true Dolby Atmos, but it adds to the immersive sound experience. This is great for movies or Dolby Atmos content.
You can turn virtual Dolby Atmos on or off with the remote. This lets you customize your audio experience.
“The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam soundbar provides a compelling surround sound experience, leveraging virtual Dolby Atmos technology to create an immersive, 3D audio environment without the need for additional height speakers.”
Music Playback Performance
The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam provides a great music experience. It has clear sound and good separation of instruments. But, you might need to tweak the bass for tracks that are heavy on bass.
The soundbar’s room correction feature can adjust the sound to fit your space. This makes your music sound even better.
The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam shines in music playback. It has five drivers and four passive radiators for a balanced sound. This setup places instruments and vocals accurately, pleasing both audiophiles and music lovers.
While the soundbar’s bass is good for most music, bass-heavy tracks may need adjustments. The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam’s controls and room correction feature let you customize the sound. This ensures a great music experience in your home.
| Performance Metric | Score |
|---|---|
| Mixed Usage | 7.2 |
| Dialogue/TV Shows | 7.2 |
| Music | 7.2 |
| Movies | 7.1 |
The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam is a top-notch audio system for music playback and sound quality. Its room correction and bass adjustment features make it versatile. It offers an immersive and personalized listening experience in your home.
Movie and TV Show Experience
The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam offers an amazing home theater experience. Its multibeam technology creates a wider soundstage. This pulls you into the action on screen.
The soundbar’s dedicated center channel makes dialogue clear and crisp. This makes it easy to follow the story without straining to hear.
For action-packed scenes, the JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam shines. It delivers dynamic audio, making explosions and gunfire more intense. But, it lacks a dedicated subwoofer, which might reduce the impact of these scenes.
| Feature | Performance |
|---|---|
| Dialogue Clarity | Excellent |
| Action Scene Performance | Good |
| Surround Sound Immersion | Very Good |
The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam also offers Virtual Dolby Atmos. This feature creates a more immersive soundscape. It may not be as immersive as true Atmos, but it adds depth and realism.
In summary, the JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam provides a great audio experience for home theater fans. It balances clear dialogue, dynamic action, and a wide soundstage. While it may not have the deepest bass, its smart audio processing and multibeam tech make for an engaging viewing experience.
Comparison with Competing Soundbars
In soundbar reviews and audio system comparison, the JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam shines. It beats the Sonos Beam in bass and movie sound. But, it’s not as easy to use as some rivals.
It’s similar to the Polk React but can’t add more speakers or a subwoofer. The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam scored 8.2 out of 10. The Samsung S60B got 8.4 out of 10, praised for its audio.
| Feature | Samsung S60B | JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in Subwoofer | Yes | No |
| Output Power | 200 W | 250 W |
| Multichannel Audio Processing | 10/10 | 7/10 |
| DTS:X Technology | Yes | No |
| Connectivity | 7/10 | 10/10 |
The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam may lack some features. Yet, its strong performance in movies and music makes it a great choice. It’s a solid audio system for those who want power and balance.
Technical Specifications and Power Output
The JBL 5.0ch Soundbar is a powerhouse with its impressive specs and power. It has a 5.0 channel setup, with five 48mm racetrack drivers and two 3-inch passive radiators. This creates a rich and immersive sound experience.
This soundbar supports Bluetooth 4.2 and Wi-Fi for easy streaming. You can connect it to various devices. It also has a USB port that delivers 5V DC, 0.5A for your accessories.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Power Output | 5 x 50W (250W total) |
| Frequency Range | 50Hz – 20kHz |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 5.8 x 71 x 10cm |
| Weight | 2.8kg |
The JBL 5.0ch Soundbar offers a wide range of technical specs and power. It’s perfect for enjoying movies, TV shows, or music. This JBL 5.0ch Soundbar is built for top-notch audio system performance, taking your entertainment to the next level.
Installation and Mounting Options
The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam soundbar is easy to set up. It fits well into your home theater system. You can place it on a TV stand or mount it on the wall, depending on your preference.
For a desktop setup, the soundbar’s compact size is a plus. It fits easily on a TV stand or entertainment unit. The included mounting hardware ensures it’s secure and stable, letting you enjoy great sound without taking up too much space.
For a sleek look, you can wall-mount the soundbar. The package includes mounting brackets and hardware. The soundbar’s design blends well with your TV. Make sure to keep it at least 2 inches (50mm) away from the TV for best results.
Connecting the JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam to your TV and devices is simple. It has HDMI and optical audio inputs for easy connection. HDMI is the best choice because it carries both audio and video signals in one cable, ensuring a top-notch soundbar installation and home theater setup.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Power Requirements | 100-240V, 50/60Hz AC |
| Power Cord | Avoid using extension cords for safety |
| Mounting Distance from TV | Minimum 2″ (50mm) recommended |
| Connectivity | HDMI, Optical Audio |
| Recommended Connection | HDMI ARC for Dolby Atmos |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Supports wireless audio streaming |
The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam soundbar offers easy installation and connectivity. It’s designed to fit seamlessly into your home entertainment setup. This ensures an immersive audio experience with little effort.
Value for Money and Price Point
The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam soundbar offers great value, depending on your audio needs. It’s priced in the mid-range, balancing sound quality, features, and design well. This makes it a good choice without spending too much.
This soundbar is compact and versatile. It doesn’t need extra subwoofers, thanks to its MultiBeam technology. This is great for those who want a clean, audio system value in their homes.
While it may not have the deepest bass or biggest sound, it’s immersive. Its soundbar price makes it affordable for many. It’s a good option for upgrading TV speakers without spending a lot.
The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam is a great choice for those who want a good sound in a small, nice-looking package. It’s perfect for those who want a clean setup and virtual surround sound. The soundbar price is worth it for this.
“The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam strikes a nice balance between performance and affordability, making it a compelling option for those seeking a versatile and space-saving audio upgrade.”
Conclusion
The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam is a soundbar that offers a great audio experience, perfect for movies and TV shows. It uses MultiBeam technology and virtual Dolby Atmos for an immersive sound. It’s a good choice for those wanting a soundbar that’s easy to set up and has strong wireless connections.
This soundbar is rated 8.3 out of 10 in a detailed review. It impresses with its design, sound quality, and value. It has a 250-watt power output, making the sound fill the room. The Dolby Atmos and MultiBeam technology make the sound even more engaging.
In summary, the JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam is a solid 5.1 soundbar. It offers a great mix of sound quality, features, and price. It’s not the most advanced JBL model, but it’s a great choice for those looking for a good soundbar in the middle range.
FAQ
What is the JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam?
The JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam is a 5.0 setup soundbar from 2021. It uses JBL’s MultiBeam Technology for a wider soundstage and immersive audio.
What are the key features of the JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam?
It has a boxy sound profile with enhanced punch and boom. It supports Virtual Dolby Atmos and has wireless options like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. It also has Automatic MultiBeam Calibration for room correction.
How does the JBL MultiBeam Technology work?
The JBL MultiBeam Technology uses five drivers and passive radiators. It distributes sound effectively, creating a wider soundstage by bouncing sound off walls.
What is the sound quality like on the JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam?
The soundbar has a boxy sound profile with enhanced punch and boom. It struggles with deep low-bass but offers clear voice reproduction. It can get loud but lacks dialogue enhancement.
What connectivity options does the JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam offer?
It has Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, optical digital, and HDMI inputs. It supports Chromecast, AirPlay, and Amazon Multi Room Music for wireless streaming.
Does the JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam support virtual surround sound?
Yes, it supports Virtual Dolby Atmos. It tries to simulate height channels but lacks dedicated ceiling-pointing drivers for full Atmos experience.
How does the JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam perform for music playback?
For music, it offers good instrument separation and clarity. Bass-heavy tracks may need bass level adjustments. Room correction helps tailor the audio to the environment.
How does the JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam perform for movie and TV viewing?
It excels in movie playback, with clear dialogue and an immersive experience in Smart mode. It lacks deep low-bass for action scenes.
How does the JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam compare to other soundbar options?
It has better bass response and movie performance than the Sonos Beam. It lacks the ease of use and app support of some rivals. It’s similar to the Polk React but doesn’t support additional speakers or a subwoofer.
What is the installation and mounting process like for the JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam?
It’s easy to install and can be placed on a TV stand or mounted on a wall. The package includes mounting hardware. Its compact size allows for flexible placement.
