JBL Bar 500MK2 Soundbar vs Samsung HW-Q990F Soundbar

The Samsung HW-Q990F is the stronger system: true 11.1.4 channels with rear speakers included, two HDMI inputs, and dual 8-inch subwoofers give it real rear-channel surround and more headroom than the JBL. The JBL Bar 500MK2 is a simpler 5.1 bar with a single 10-inch subwoofer and no rear speakers, so it relies on MultiBeam 3.0 to spread sound and cannot place effects behind you. Owners of both praise the dialogue clarity and easy setup; reviewers consistently rate the Samsung higher for movie immersion and the JBL higher for simplicity and a smaller footprint.

• Choose the JBL Bar 500MK2 if you want a one-bar-plus-sub setup with big bass, Dolby Atmos, and no rear speakers to place or wire.
• Choose the Samsung HW-Q990F if you want genuine rear-channel surround, two HDMI passthrough inputs, and the most immersive movie sound in this class.