JBL Bar 500MK2 vs Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar Plus

The JBL Bar 500MK2 is the better pick for most people: a true 5.1 setup with a separate 10-inch wireless subwoofer, 750W of power and Dolby Atmos, at a much lower outlay. The Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar Plus is a single-unit 7.1.4 system with AMBEO virtualization, DTS:X and built-in dual 4-inch subwoofers, and it earns far more owner ratings. Buy the JBL for physical surround and deep bass; step up to the Sennheiser for a cleaner one-box install, room calibration and broader format support.

• Choose the JBL Bar 500MK2 if you want real rear-channel separation and a dedicated 10-inch subwoofer without paying flagship money.
• Choose the Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar Plus if you want a single wall-mountable bar with 7.1.4 virtualization, room self-calibration and DTS:X.