Jbl Bar 700 vs 9.1: Which Soundbar Reigns Supreme?
Tired of lackluster TV audio? You’re in the right place. We’re diving deep into the world of soundbars, pitting two titans against each other: the JBL Bar 700 and the JBL 9.1. Prepare to have your ears tantalized and your living room transformed.
Both soundbars promise immersive audio experiences, but they take different approaches. The JBL Bar 700 offers a streamlined setup with advanced features. The JBL 9.1, on the other hand, boasts a more elaborate design, including detachable surround speakers.
We’ll explore everything from sound quality and features to ease of use and value for money. By the end of this comparison, you’ll know exactly which JBL soundbar is the perfect fit for your home entertainment needs. Get ready to upgrade your audio game!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | jbl bar 700 | 9.1 |
|---|---|---|
| Channels | 5.1 | 5.1 |
| Total Power | 618W | 820W |
| Subwoofer | Wireless | Wireless |
| Detachable Speakers | Yes | Yes |
| HDMI In/Out | Yes/Yes | Yes/Yes |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | Yes | Yes |
| Dolby Atmos | Yes | Yes |
| DTS:X | Yes | Yes |
| Number of Speakers | 10 | 10 |
| Sound Calibration | Yes | Yes |
| Voice Assistant | Google Assistant, Alexa | Google Assistant, Alexa |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Sound System
- Jbl Bar 700: A 5.1-channel soundbar system with a wireless subwoofer and detachable surround speakers. Offers immersive audio, but the surround speakers require charging and can lose connection.
- 9.1: A 9.1-channel soundbar system with a wireless subwoofer and detachable, battery-powered surround speakers. Delivers a more expansive and realistic soundstage due to its additional channels, but is more expensive.
- Winner: 9.1
Speaker Configuration
- Jbl Bar 700: 5.1 channel configuration, featuring a soundbar, wireless subwoofer, and detachable surround speakers. Provides a good surround sound experience, but has fewer channels.
- 9.1: 9.1 channel configuration, with a soundbar, wireless subwoofer, and detachable surround speakers, plus upward-firing speakers in the soundbar. Offers a more immersive experience.
- Winner: 9.1
Wireless Connectivity
- Jbl Bar 700: Features Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and AirPlay 2 for streaming. Provides good connectivity options, but may have occasional dropouts.
- 9.1: Also offers Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and AirPlay 2. Provides similar connectivity, but the detachable surround speakers can have connectivity issues.
- Winner: Tie
HDMI Ports
- Jbl Bar 700: Includes HDMI eARC and HDMI inputs. Supports 4K passthrough.
- 9.1: Includes HDMI eARC and HDMI inputs. Supports 4K passthrough, providing flexibility.
- Winner: Tie
Subwoofer
- Jbl Bar 700: Comes with a wireless subwoofer. Provides deep bass, enhancing the overall audio experience.
- 9.1: Also includes a wireless subwoofer. Offers powerful bass, but may not be as refined as some other subwoofers.
- Winner: Tie
Surround Sound
- Jbl Bar 700: Detachable surround speakers that are battery-powered, offering flexibility in placement, but require charging.
- 9.1: Detachable, battery-powered surround speakers that are an integral part of the experience, offering excellent flexibility.
- Winner: 9.1
Voice Assistant Support
- Jbl Bar 700: Compatible with voice assistants, allowing for hands-free control.
- 9.1: Also supports voice assistants, offering similar functionality.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- Jbl Bar 700: Generally more affordable than the 9.1. Provides a good value for its features.
- 9.1: Typically more expensive. Reflects its advanced features and channel configuration.
- Winner: jbl bar 700
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Performance | 9.1 |
| Value | Tie |
| Features | Tie |
| Ease of Use | Tie |
| Sound Quality | 9.1 |
What They Have in Common
- Wireless Subwoofer: Both soundbars include a wireless subwoofer for enhanced bass performance, providing a more immersive audio experience.
- Detachable Surround Speakers: Both models feature detachable surround speakers, allowing for a true surround sound setup without extra wiring.
- Dolby Atmos Support: Both soundbars support Dolby Atmos, creating a three-dimensional soundscape for more realistic audio.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Both soundbars offer Bluetooth connectivity for easy streaming from mobile devices.
- HDMI Earc: Both soundbars support HDMI eARC, allowing for high-quality audio passthrough from your TV.
- Voice Assistant Integration: Both models integrate with voice assistants like Google Assistant and Alexa.
JBL Bar 700 vs 9.1 Buying Guide
Sound Quality and Performance
The JBL Bar 700 delivers a compelling sound experience, excelling in clarity and detail. Its virtual surround sound capabilities create an immersive atmosphere, suitable for movies and music. The included subwoofer provides deep, impactful bass, enhancing the overall audio profile. The 9.1, on the other hand, takes immersion to another level with its true surround sound, offering a wider soundstage and more precise audio placement thanks to its detachable rear speakers. This makes it a better choice for a true home theater experience.
Features and Connectivity
Both soundbars offer extensive features, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and HDMI eARC. The Bar 700 boasts built-in Chromecast and AirPlay 2, simplifying streaming from various devices. The 9.1 mirrors these connectivity options but distinguishes itself with its detachable, battery-powered rear speakers, offering unparalleled flexibility in placement. The 9.1’s remote control is also more advanced, allowing for more precise audio adjustments. Both systems support voice control through Google Assistant and Alexa.
Design and Build Quality
The Bar 700 presents a sleek and modern design, integrating seamlessly into most living room setups. Its compact size makes it a versatile choice for various TV sizes. The 9.1, with its additional components, requires more space. Its build quality is robust, providing a premium feel. The detachable rear speakers add to the setup’s complexity, but also enhance the overall experience. Both products feature durable materials.
Ease of Use and Setup
Setting up the JBL Bar 700 is relatively straightforward, with simple connections and intuitive controls. The wireless subwoofer simplifies placement, eliminating the need for extra cables. The 9.1, while slightly more complex due to the rear speakers, features a user-friendly setup process. The detachable speakers automatically connect once powered on, making the process relatively seamless. Both products include clear instructions.
Price and Value
The JBL Bar 700 typically comes at a more affordable price point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers seeking quality sound. It offers excellent value for its features and performance. The 9.1, being positioned in a higher price bracket, reflects its advanced features, including true surround sound and detachable speakers. The value depends on a user’s need for a premium, immersive home theater experience.
Comparison to the Competition
Compared to other soundbars in its class, the Bar 700 holds its own, offering a balance of performance and features. It competes well against rivals with similar virtual surround sound technologies. The 9.1 directly challenges higher-end systems with its true surround capabilities, setting a new benchmark for soundbar performance. It faces competition from systems with similar features, but its integration is excellent.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy jbl bar 700 If…
- You want a slightly more compact soundbar system.
- You prioritize a streamlined design.
- You prefer a system with integrated voice assistant support.
- You want a system that is easy to setup.
Buy 9.1 If…
- You want the most powerful soundbar with higher total output.
- You want a wider soundstage.
- You want a more immersive experience.
- You prioritize the peak performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary difference between the JBL Bar 700 and the 9.1?
The main difference lies in the surround sound capabilities. The Bar 700 offers virtual surround, while the 9.1 provides a true surround sound experience with its detachable rear speakers. The 9.1 delivers a more immersive audio environment. The inclusion of rear speakers allows for a more accurate and encompassing soundstage.
Does the JBL Bar 700 support Dolby Atmos?
Yes, the JBL Bar 700 supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, enhancing the audio experience with immersive, overhead sound effects. This technology creates a more realistic and engaging listening environment. This is a significant feature for modern home entertainment.
How long do the rear speakers of the 9.1 last on a single charge?
The detachable rear speakers of the JBL Bar 9.1 typically last for around 10 hours of playback on a single charge. This provides ample time for movie nights or extended listening sessions. Recharging is simple, as they dock directly onto the soundbar.
Can I control both soundbars with my TV remote?
Yes, both the JBL Bar 700 and the 9.1 support HDMI eARC, allowing you to control the soundbar’s volume and power using your TV remote. This simplifies operation and reduces the need for multiple remotes. This feature promotes ease of use.
Which soundbar is better for music listening?
Both soundbars are suitable for music, but the 700’s sound profile is more balanced and the 9.1 presents a wider soundstage. The choice depends on personal preference and the desired level of immersion. Both offer excellent clarity.
What streaming services are supported by the JBL Bar 700 and 9.1?
Both soundbars support popular streaming services via Chromecast and AirPlay 2, allowing for easy playback from various devices. The integration is seamless with services like Spotify and Tidal. This offers great flexibility for music lovers.
Is it easy to set up the wireless subwoofer?
Yes, the wireless subwoofer for both soundbars is very easy to set up. It connects automatically to the soundbar once powered on, eliminating the need for complex configurations. This simplifies the setup process and reduces clutter.
Final Verdict
The JBL Bar 700 delivers a great audio experience, but the 9.1 offers a more immersive home theater experience with true surround sound, thanks to its detachable rear speakers. While the 700 presents an excellent value and simplicity, the 9.1 provides a superior audio experience for those seeking a premium setup and a wider soundstage. The 9.1’s features make it the better choice for true enthusiasts.
Winner: JBL Bar 9.1