Sony Vs JBL Soundbars? The Face Off For Room Filing Audio

For a surround sound experience the Sony HT-S40R Dolby Audio soundbar comes with a 5.1 channel configuration with subwoofer, and dual rear speakers. The total audio power output is 600W which is quite powerful and suitable enough for large room entertainment. Setting up the sound bar is super easy as it comes with colour coded connection cues, while the rear speakers can be connected to the wireless amplifiers easily. The options for seamless and easy connectivity includes HDMI, Optical, or Analog cable connections. Wireless Bluetooth technology of the soundbar helps connecting with smartphone, tablet, or laptop easily without any hassle. There are 2 separate sound modes like voice and night mode, the former ensures that all your dialogues are easy to hear and decipher while the latter makes it possible for discreet listening at night when others at your home are relaxing in deep slumber. The subwoofer delivers rich thumping bass and makes it one of the top soundbars for TV. 

Specifications 

• Network Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth, HDMI, Optical, USB
• Number of Audio Channels: 5.1
• Power Source: Corded Electric
• Item Dimensions D x W x H: 7.5D x 90W x 5.2H Centimeters
• Item Weight: 454 Grams
• Compatible Devices: Home Theater, Television, Smartphone, Tablet, Laptop, Personal Computer
• Woofer Driver Diameter: 192 Millimetres
• Tweeter Driver Diameter: 1 Inches
• Audio Driver Type: Dynamic Driver
• Item Height: 38.7 Centimeters

Pros 

• Compact rear speakers. 
• High power sound delivery for a room filing audio experience. 
• Sleek and premium structure. 
• Durable build quality. 

Cons

• No major cons as such. 

User Testimonial On Amazon By Harsh Singh: “The Sony HT-S400 is a solid choice if you’re looking to elevate your TV’s sound—at a budget-friendly price, with easy setup and decent bass and clarity.”

This is a 3.1 channel soundbar with Dolby Atmos from JBL that provides a total power output of 440W. The soundbar comes with a center channel which is super efficient to convey dialogues and spoken words with great clarity. Dolby Atmos sound processing ensures that sound feels enveloping and coming from all directions in a vivid and enhanced way. Its 6.5 inch subwoofer provides the most deep and thrilling bass while the easy remote control makes it super easy to control sound as desired by the listener. This is a premium soundbar choice with a 3.1 channel structure and when compared to the Sony HT-S40R Real 5.1ch Dolby Audio Soundbar it may not match up in terms of pricing as well as the sound quality. It is however a better choice for small entertainment set up since it only consists of a soundbar and subwoofer which comes with an easy space saving design for neat installation, and the audio wattage is also adequate enough. 

Specifications 

• Frequency Response: 20 KHz
• Number of Audio Channels: 3.1
• Compatible Devices: Television
• Power Source: Corded Electric
• Audio Driver Type: Dynamic Driver
• Audio Driver Size: 6.5 Inches
• Speaker Size: 12 Inches
• Woofer Driver Diameter: 6.5 Inches
• Tweeter Driver Diameter: 1 Inches
• Bluetooth Range: 10 Metres
• Item Type Name: 1 JBL Sound bar
• Item Height: 6.4 Centimeters

Pros 

• Robust build. 
• Simple and easy installation process. 
• Premium design. 
• Best suited for a small and cozy entertainment set up. 

Cons

• Some users have raised concerns about some functionalities of the soundbar, 2 such user testimonials are given. 

User Testimonials 1 By Dayakar: “"I ordered SB590 on 28/09/2024, After 4 to 5 days, Subwoofer is not working, I don’t see any options to contact JBL support from product support in..."

User Testimonial 2 By Chetan Kashyap: "If you're an audiophile, this is going to be a disappointment. Think of it as nothing more than a crude pass-through from your TV that slaps on some uncontrolled low-end. The bass isn’t tight or musical, it’s muddy and overemphasized, masking detail in the mids….”

With a sleek and compact design this one unit soundbar from Sony is an impactful sound system that comes with Dolby Atmos/DTSX audio engineering. This makes sound feel more thrilling and processed in the most advanced way to ensure a heightened and near surround sound experience. The built in subwoofer with the soundbar ensures that the bass feels strong and rich while the Vertical Surround Engine allows the soundbar to offer a 3 dimensional sound without the need of up firing, and side firing speakers. HEC App support is an all in one solution ground that helps in proper sound adjustment, you would get the ease of controlling the volume, set the required sound mode and also troubleshoot easily for smooth and uninterrupted sound play. This stands as one of the top Sony soundbars and when compared to any high end JBL single unit soundbar option it matches up in equal measure with audio performance. The X-Balanced Speaker Unit built in the system allows the soundbar to offer high clarity and immersive sound. 

Specifications 

• Speaker Maximum Output Power: 250 Watts
• Control Method: App
• Speaker Size: 3.1 Inches
• Tweeter Driver Diameter: 1 Inches
• Item Dimensions D x W x H: 12.4D x 80W x 6.4H Centimeters
• Item Weight: 3.7 Kilograms
• Compatible Devices: Mobile, Television
• Audio Driver Type: Dynamic Driver
• Power Source: Battery Powered
• Network Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth, HDMI, Optical

Pros 

• Quick installation ease. 
• Provides a stunning surround sound effect despite a single unit speaker. 
• High resolution sound for impressive listening. 
• Good build quality. 

Cons

• Some users on Amazon have reported issues with connectivity. A user review is given below with respect to this issue. 

User Testimonial On Amazon By Chaitanya M. : "Sound stage and quality is great but keeps getting disconnected from TV, network & the bravia app, until you reset it...."

This is an affordable JBL soundbar that comes with Dolby Audio support to make sure that the sound you listen is quality rich and super effective for a defined experience of listening. It is a space efficient sound system with multiple connectivity options which makes it easy to set and install. You get one cable HDMI connection to pair with smart TVs, wireless Bluetooth streaming for easy syncing and lag free performance. Dedicated center channel of the soundbar makes dialogues appear more clear and defined, crisp and clarity filled for enjoying movies vividly. Built in with a subwoofer the soundbar provides rich bass and depth with sound so that it makes the audio feel more impressive and immersive. It supports the latest Bluetooth 5.3 version which helps in a lag free audio transmission and makes this one of the top sound bar choices in the budget friendly range. It also gives the option of Optical input for easy connection. 

Specifications 

• Brand: JBL
• Speaker Maximum Output Power: 200 Watts
• Frequency Response: 20 KHz
• Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth
• Audio Output Mode: Surround
• Number of Audio Channels: 3.1
• Maximum Range: 10 metres
• Control Method: Remote
• Speaker Size: 12 Inches
• Tweeter Driver Diameter: 1 Inches
• Bluetooth Range: 10 Metres
• Audio Driver Type: Dynamic Driver
• Audio Driver Size: 80 Millimetres

Pros 

• Makes the audio with movie and television series be more clear and precise, with the center channel on the soundbar. 
• Dolby Audio improves the sound quality. 
• Bluetooth 5.3 helps in wireless music streaming. 
• Super sleek design for enhancing TV audio.

Cons

• No major cons as such. 

User Testimonial On Amazon By Rishiram Srinivas: “After using the JBL510 for a month , I'm writing this, for small to medium sized halls this is absolute perfect , does the job , and the inbuilt subwoofer is a big boost. The sound is crisp n smooth , worth it.”

This is a heavy duty soundbar that comes with the 3.1 channel set up and is backed by the support of advanced Dolby Atmos audio engineering. It is a high end choice of sound system as the total audio power output is 250W. The subwoofer that comes with the soundbar helps in refining low frequency sound and offer a more immersive audio experience while the additional speaker units with it helps create a wide sound field to offer the surround sound experience. It is one of the top rated soundbars in the premium category. For convenient control ease the soundbar comes with the additional support of Sony Home Entertainment Connect App. Additionally this is designed specifically to suit Sony BRAVIA XR TVs as after connecting with it you would get all the settings of the soundbar already available in the menu section, making audio of the Sony TV more pronounced and enhanced for a captivating and elevated entertainment experience. 

Specifications 

• Compatible Devices: Mobile, Television
• Item Dimensions D x W x H: 12.4D x 80W x 6.4H Centimeters
• Item Weight: 20000 Grams
• Number of Audio Channels: 5.1
• Wireless Technology Type: Bluetooth, HDMI, Optical, USB
• Audio Driver Type: Dynamic Driver
• Box Contents: Soundbar, Remote controller, Batteries for remote controller, AC cord, HDMI Cable, AC Adapter
• Speaker Size: 12 Inches
• Tweeter Driver Diameter: 1 Inches

Pros 

• Simple set up and speedy installation. 
• Best for Sony Sony BRAVIA XR TVs. 
• Provide a wide immersive sound stage. 
• Offers impactful and rich bass. 

Cons

• Consistent issues with connectivity is a concern with some users on Amazon. A user testimonial regarding this is given below. 

User Testimonial On Amazon By Pramod Satpathy: "...in surround mode rear Speakers did not work and mostly frequently disconnected...."

With the combined performance efficiency of true Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and Multibeam Surround Sound this super strong JBL soundbar packs the most impactful sound for a captivating and alluring audio experience. With a total audio power output of 880W it is the perfect soundbar for large TV screens and offers a 3D audio play well suited for impressive listening. The subwoofer that comes with the soundbar measures 10 inch size and makes sound feel more immersive and engaging for high clarity listening. This soundbar is also compatible with voice assistant speakers that you would find in smart homes used for home automation making the use and control of the soundbar super easy and convenient. Chromecast built-in with AirPlay, Alexa MRM allows the access for multiple online music streaming services and gives the access for all round entertainment in the most impressive way. JBL one App is the platform for a complete control access of the soundbar’s capacity to perform. 

Specifications 

• Frequency Response: 20 KHz
• Number of Audio Channels: 7.1.4
• Network Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth, USB, HDMI, Wireless, Wi-Fi, Optical
• Wireless Technology Type: Airplay, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
• Power Source: Corded Electric
• Product Features: PureVoice dialogue enhancement technology; Built-in Wi-Fi with AirPlay, Alexa Multi-Room; Music and Chromecast built-in; Easy sound calibration
• Speaker Size: 10 Inches
• Woofer Driver Diameter: 10 Inches
• Tweeter Driver Diameter: 1 Inches
• Bluetooth Range: 10 Metres
• Speaker Maximum Output Power: 880 Watts
• Input Voltage: 240 Volts
• Compatible Devices: Android Phones, Laptop, Tablet, Television, iPhone

Pros 

• PureVoice Dialogue enhancement for dialogue and voice clarity. 
• Detachable rear speakers to help create a wide sound field. 
• Seamless voice control ease. 
• Elegant and premium design. 

Cons

• Mixed reviews on Amazon with regards to performance and functionality. For reference a user review on Amazon is given below. 

User Testimonial On Amazon By Manoj V Mane: “this product works at its best only when source video or audio as surround audio or dolby atmos, if u play songs and video in youtube it sound liks old radio tat bad it is as it doesnt support sterio tech, so if u want amazing sound quality to watch movies in amazon and netflix, this is the best product.”

With Dolby Audio and a 5.1 channel set up this mid ranged soundbar from Sony delivers a fitting audio experience to elevate the audio experience of a smart TV. The massive sound power output of the soundbar is 400W which is quite strong and immersive for defined listening. The soundbar alone is engineered with a 3.1 channel speaker system. The subwoofer offers a rich and dynamic bass level for immersive listening. A section for USB inserting allows for easy plug and play ease making it one of the best soundbar for TV. Wireless Bluetooth connectivity adds another layer of ease to its use. The master remote control with the sound system comes integrated with multiple button options that can make control seamless and easy. For cable clutter free installation it can be connected to the TV with the single HDMI cable connection ease. Dolby Digital audio makes the sound feel activating and cinematic. 

Specifications 

• Maximum Range: 10 metres
• Control Method: Remote
• Speaker Size: 20 Millimetres
• Woofer Driver Diameter: 12 Inches
• Tweeter Driver Diameter: 12 Millimetres
• Compatible Devices: Smartphone, Television
• Audio Driver Type: Dynamic Driver
• Speaker Maximum Output Power: 400 Watts
• Item Dimensions D x W x H: 8.6D x 76W x 5.2H Centimeters
• Item Weight: 13000 Grams
• Power Source: AC

Pros 

• Great depth and audio clarity. 
• Smooth audio performance. 
• Installing it would not be a hassle. 
• It is a value for money investment. 

Cons

• No major drawbacks to worry about.

User Testimonial On Amazon By DrJag: “I recently purchased the Sony soundbar and I’m thoroughly impressed with the overall performance and quality. The sound clarity is exceptional, with rich bass and balanced treble that completely elevates the home entertainment experience…”

This is a 2.1 channel soundbar that comes with a down firing 6.5 inch subwoofer that makes low frequency sound feel more rich and powerful for impressive listening. With a total audio power output of 300W it packs a solid pouch with sound and delivers the most cinematic sound transforming your entertainment set up into theatre like experience. HDMI ARC and Optical Input connectivity options with the soundbar ensures that set up is easy and not a complex process. It is the perfect JBL soundbar to choose for pairing with small to medium sized TV screens. The sleek and super compact design of the soundbar is space efficient and comes with Dolby Digital backing this makes it a good choice for cinematic entertainment. Space efficient yet with a premium design it would merge seamlessly with any entertainment set up. 

Specifications 

• Product Features: Deep Bass; JBL Signature Sound; Built-in Dolby Digital; 300W Output Power; HDMI & Optical Input
• Speaker Size: 6.5 Inches
• Woofer Driver Diameter: 6.5 Inches
• Tweeter Driver Diameter: 1 Inches
• Total USB 2.0 Ports: 1
• Speaker Maximum Output Power: 300 Watts
• Input Voltage: 240 Volts
• Audio Driver Type: Dynamic Driver
• Audio Driver Size: 6.5 Inches
• Number of Audio Channels: 2.1
• Compatible Devices: Android Phones, Laptop, Tablet, Television, iPhone
• Item Dimensions D x W x H: 30.5D x 21W x 94.5H Centimeters
• Item Weight: 7750 Grams

Pros 

• Sturdy and durable build quality. 
• It is a good quality 2.1 channel soundbar. 
• Seamless Bluetooth connectivity ease. 
• Easy and simple to set up. 

Cons

• Some users on Amazon have raised concerns about its functionality and performance. Read the user testimonial below to understand where the soundbar lacks. 

User Testimonial On Amazon By Akj: “First of all this product has basic technical issues like

It hangs and power goes off suddenly or speakers are not working

till restarted...but biggest is the ...

Recharging problems with it's back speakers..in case of my product the left side speaker doesn't get charged and after charging for hours through usb it lasts only less than a hour while jbl claims that charge stays for 10 to 12 hour..even rightside speaker doesn't last without recharge for an hour...I'm duped by their claims...

If you try to charge on standby mode with main bar it auto shuts without charging within few minutes..so one has option of charging through external wire charger to be brought at your own cost....”