Upgrading your TV‘s audio with a soundbar can vastly improve your home entertainment experience. But with so many options out there, choosing the right one can get overwhelming.
In this comprehensive guide, we compare two of the top soundbar brands – Sony and JBL. We break down their soundbars across various factors like sound quality, design, features, connectivity and more to help you find your perfect fit.
Brief History of Sony and JBL
Sony and JBL are giants in the consumer audio space with decades of experience crafting innovative products.
Sony was founded in 1946 in Tokyo and became renowned for electronics like the Walkman, Trinitron TVs, and premium headphones. Sony also makes cameras, video game consoles and other devices.
JBL originated in the US in 1946 when audio engineer James Bullough Lansing launched his company manufacturing cinema loudspeakers and studio monitors. JBL later produced noteworthy products like bookshelf speakers and Bluetooth speakers.
So both brands have rich legacies spanning over 70+ years focused on delivering stellar audio performance. This pedigree and expertise are reflected across their extensive soundbar lineups.
Soundbar Product Ranges
Sony and JBL offer soundbars across a wide spectrum of price points to suit different budgets and needs.
Sony‘s lineup starts from around $100 for basic 2 channel models, going up to $1500+ for premium Dolby Atmos-enabled soundbars with dedicated subwoofers. Models like the Sony HT-A9 feature cutting-edge acoustic technologies for an immersive cinematic experience.
JBL‘s soundbar collection has similar price diversity – from the affordable JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass at $299 to the high-performance JBL Bar 11.1 Surround retailing over $1500.
So both Sony and JBL offer excellent options no matter your budget or needs. We‘ll compare models across price tiers in more detail later.
Sound Quality
Arguably the most vital factor in choosing a soundbar is sound performance. We break down how Sony and JBL models compare:
Sony Sound Quality
Sony soundbars are tuned to deliver well-balanced audio with clear mids/highs thanks to tweeter speakers accompanying the main drivers. Powerful dedicated subwoofers (in certain models) fill out the low end nicely.
They utilize audio technologies like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Sony‘s own Vertical Surround Engine to create immersive 3D audio with perceptible height/depth. Features like Sound Mode presets and EQ adjustment allow easy audio customization.
JBL Sound Quality
JBL soundbars emphasize loud, punchy bass which adds excitement to movies, music and games. Their signature Harman Kardon audio tuning focuses on supply thumping yet distortion-free low-end impact.
Certain higher-end JBL models also incorporate upfiring Dolby Atmos speakers to envelop listeners and even side-firing speakers for a true surround sound experience. MultiBeam technology enhances clarity.
Verdict: Sony vs JBL Sound Quality
When it comes to sound quality, Sony takes the edge for balanced, reference-grade audio while JBL is a slightly more "fun" listen thanks to its powerful bass bias. So Sony is superior for purists while JBL better suits bass lovers.
That said, both brands deliver excellent Dolby Atmos/DTS:X support within higher price brackets for truly immersive 3D soundscapes.
Design and Build Quality
A soundbar‘s visual aesthetics and form factor also matter since it will likely sit right under your TV. Let‘s examine how Sony and JBL models stack up here:
Sony Soundbar Design
Most Sony soundbars sport a minimalist, unassuming rectangular design in black or gray hues with metal grilles covering the speakers. Size options range from compact 2 channel models to much wider surround-equipped models.
High-end options boast sleeker builds and premium touches like glass tops. Subwoofers nicely complement Sony soundbars with their cubed shape.
JBL Soundbar Design
JBL soundbars flaunt a more stylish, contemporary look with rounded corners and distinctive drivers with orange cones popping from beneath metal grilles . They come in black or white colors to match your decor.
The detachable battery-powered rear speakers seen on high-end surround-capable models allow placement flexibility compared to Sony models with fixedsided speakers. Matching subwoofers deliver a handsome package.
Verdict: Sony vs JBL Soundbar Design
When rated purely on aesthetics, JBL wins out with its trendier, more ornamental industrial design over Sony‘s nondescript simplicity. Build quality is superb across both brands. JBL‘s modular wireless surround speakers also permit more placement options.
So if you want your soundbar to make a visual statement, JBL is better while Sony models seamlessly blend into their surroundings.
Features and Connectivity
Both Sony and JBL pack their soundbars with abundant features and connectivity options. Let‘s examine how they compare:
Sony Features
- Voice assistants (Google Assistant, Alexa)
- Chromecast/Apple AirPlay support
- Sony SongPal for multiroom audio
- Enhanced audio modes like Movie/Music/Auto Sound
- Front panel controls and bundled compact remote
Sony Connectivity
- HDMI ARC/eARC ports
- Optical input
- USB playback
- Bluetooth
- WiFi/Ethernet (select models)
JBL Features
- Voice control via Alexa + Google Assistant + Siri
- Chromecast/Airplay2 capability
- JBL One app for control and audio tuning
- Calibration using built-in mics
- Surround/stereo modes
JBL Connectivity
- HDMI ports with 4K/Dolby Vision passthrough
- Optical input
- Bluetooth
- WiFi (most models)
Verdict: Sony vs JBL Features and Connectivity
Sony and JBL are extremely well-matched when it comes to abundant features and connectivity. Both support the latest standards like Dolby Vision passthrough, Chromecast streaming etc.
Each brand has its own customization app allowing granular audio tweaks. Voice assistant and multiroom support are present too.
JBL pulls ahead for calibration mics and front panel touch controls on certain models. So it ultimately comes down to personal preferences for any standout features.
Compatibility
Both Sony and JBL soundbars boast wide compatibility with various devices:
Sony Compatibility
Sony models can interface with Sony TVs to automatically adjust audio settings for optimized performance. This gives them an edge for households invested in the Sony media ecosystem.
That said, Sony soundbars work seamlessly with any TV brand thanks to universal standards like HDMI ARC/eARC and Bluetooth. Connectivity to streaming devices, gaming consoles etc is smooth.
JBL Compatibility
JBL bars also pair wonderfully with pretty much any television via HDMI ARC or optical audio cables. The HDMI ports enable devices like Blu-ray players or Xbox consoles to be plugged directly into some models.
Syncing with iOS/Android smartphones and tablets via Bluetooth allows music playback. WiFi-enabled JBL models can access networked media libraries and streaming platforms easily.
So while both Sony and JBL soundbars offer broad compatibility, Sony models integrate better with Sony TVs specifically.
Prices
Soundbar prices vary significantly across brands and models depending on factors like:
- Number of speakers/channels
- Audio formats supported e.g Dolby Atmos
- Connectivity options e.g HDMI ports
- Smart features like Chromecast
Taking these aspects into account, here is how prices compare between Sony and JBL:
Sony Soundbar Prices
| Model | Price |
|---|---|
| Sony HT-S20R | $148 |
| Sony HT-G700 | $398 |
| Sony HT-A7000 | $1,198 |
JBL Soundbar Prices
| Model | Price |
|---|---|
| JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass | $299 |
| JBL Bar 5.0 | $499 |
| JBL Bar 9.1 | $1,199 |
As evident from the popular models compared above, Sony soundbars come in at slightly lower price points than comparative JBL models.
However, both brands offer excellent performance even at entry-level, making them great value purchases that can massively boost your TV‘s audio game without breaking the bank.
Audio Performance Showdown: Sony vs JBL
We‘ve covered a lot of ground when comparing various aspects of Sony and JBL soundbars.
Now let‘s directly face off a popular model from each brand to get a sense of real-world performance differences:
Sony HT-G700 vs JBL Bar 5.1
The Sony HT-G700 and JBL Bar 5.1 occupy the mid-range price tier, delivering robust Dolby Atmos/DTS:X-enabled 3.1 channel sound powered by dedicated subwoofers.
Sound Quality
The Sony produces well-balanced audio with clear mids and highs thanks to dedicated tweeters. Voices come through crisp indialogue-heavy content. The wireless subwoofer provides decent low-end punch on explosions or musical hits without muddying other frequencies. It handles demanding movie soundtracks and music admirably within its price bracket.
The JBL offers an exciting lively listen with forward mids and sparkling highs during busy action scenes and drum solos. Its thunderous bass output truly stands out, adding incredible slam to effects like plane flyovers or punches landing without distorting. Its sub reaches deeper than Sony‘s to satisfy bassheads.
Verdict: For neutrality, Sony HT-G700. For fun bass impact – JBL Bar 5.1
Features
The G700 comes with Sony‘s proprietary vertical surround engine to create virtual height channels for Dolby Atmos/DTS:X playback. An enhanced audio mode further widens the soundstage. Sony‘s long remote is handy for toggling settings while its readouts are displayed on the soundbar‘s LED display.
The Bar 5.1 packs dedicated upfiring drivers for Dolby Atmos height effects and side-firing drivers to widen surround imaging compared to Sony‘s virtual processing. Its remote has quick access presets and an LCD readout showing settings. Its Spotify Connect integration bests Sony‘s multiroom audio chops.
Verdict: Draw – both are well equipped, JBL has nicer remote. Sony has display.
Connectivity
The Sony HT-G700 has 2 HDMI ports for TV and 4K devices. It supports HDMI ARC but not cutting-edge eARC seen in pricier models. An optical input and Bluetooth are present too. WiFi is oddly missing though.
The Bar 5.1 only has 1 HDMI socket but it‘s HDMI eARC enabled for high bandwidth audio passthrough from the TV. Bluetooth and WiFi are included.
Verdict: JBL Bar 5.1 for HDMI 2.1 eARC support
Based on this comparison, the Sony HT-G700 delivers more balanced and natural audio quality while the JBL Bar 5.1 excels for bass-heavy powerful sound with plenty of features. So choose as per what resonates with your preferences.
Final Verdict – Choosing Between Sony vs JBL Soundbars
So which brand reigns supreme in the battle of Sony vs JBL soundbars? Honestly, there is no clear winner – both companies produce excellent soundbars.
Sony is ideal if you want balanced, nuanced sound from subtler acoustic songs to soothing soundtracks. JBL provides an ultra-fun bass-forward flavor perfect for EDM or action movies.
Here is a quick brand breakdown for you as you evaluate options:
| Sony Soundbars | JBL Soundbars | |
|---|---|---|
| Sound Quality | Natural, wide, balanced | Fun lively sound with thunderous bass |
| Design | Understated chic | Contemporary stylish look |
| Features | Chromecast, multiroom audio, voice assistants | Chromecast, surround expansion modules, touch controls |
| Compatibility | Extra integration with Sony TVs | Works universally with all TV brands |
| Prices | Start under $100, great value for money | Tend to cost $100+ more than Sony equivalents |
Additionally, factor in aspects like your room size, preferred taste in audio, need for future expandability etc.
Armed with this exhaustive comparison, you should now have clarity in choosing the ideal Sony or JBL soundbar matching your budget and needs!
