JBL Bar 1000MK2 vs Bar 500MK2

The JBL Bar 1000MK2 and the JBL Bar 500MK2 are sibling soundbars in different price and configuration categories. The 1000MK2 is a 7.1.4-channel system with satellites and a sub, while the 500MK2 is a 5.1-channel system with a sub. Despite their similar 10" subwoofer, the 500MK2 has a warmer sound overall when reproducing stereo content compared to the 1000MK2. Outside of this, their stereo and center channel performance is quite similar, with music and dialogue rendered naturally. The 1000MK2 pulls away from the 500MK2 when it comes to multi-channel content, connectivity, and enhancement features. The more comprehensive set renders surround and height cues more convincingly, providing more immersion. It also provides comprehensive channel-level adjustment and EQ presets, and expands the HDMI Inputs to three.