Choosing Between Premium and Basic TV Sound: JBL vs Bose Soundbar Comparison

Home theater audio can be confusing, with options ranging from simple TV speakers to complex surround systems. Let's dive into two popular but very different approaches to better TV sound - comparing the premium JBL Bar 700 ($899) with the basic Bose TV Speaker ($199).

Understanding Today's Soundbar Market

Soundbars have evolved significantly since their introduction in the early 2000s. What started as simple stereo speakers has grown into sophisticated audio systems that can rival traditional home theater setups. Today's premium models include wireless subwoofers, surround speakers, and technologies like Dolby Atmos that create immersive 3D sound fields.

The key decision factors haven't changed though - room size, primary content type, and budget still drive the choice. What has changed is the technology that delivers the experience, with modern digital processing enabling better sound from smaller packages.

A Tale of Two Approaches

The JBL Bar 700 and Bose TV Speaker represent opposite ends of the soundbar spectrum. Released in 2022, the JBL system brings modern features like detachable wireless surrounds - something unheard of just a few years ago. The Bose, while newer to market, takes a minimalist approach focused on simplicity.

System Architecture Deep Dive

The JBL's 5.1 setup means you get five main channels (left, center, right, and two surrounds) plus a subwoofer channel (the ".1"). This creates a true surround experience with sound coming from all directions. The wireless 10-inch subwoofer handles the low frequencies that give explosions and music their impact.

In contrast, the Bose uses just two internal speakers in a stereo configuration. While it can simulate some surround effects through digital processing, it can't match the immersion of physical speakers behind you. Think of it like comparing stereo headphones to a surround sound theater.

Real-World Performance

Audio Quality and Power

The JBL's 620W of total power (that's about 6 times a typical TV's built-in speakers) provides serious punch. The dedicated speakers for each channel mean dialogue stays centered on screen while effects move naturally around the room. The Dolby Atmos support adds height effects - like hearing helicopters fly overhead or rain falling from above.

Having spent time with both systems, the Bose delivers clearer sound than TV speakers but lacks the dynamics and impact of the JBL. Its internal speakers handle dialogue well but struggle with complex movie soundtracks or bass-heavy music. Think of it as upgrading from economy to premium economy, while the JBL is like moving to first class.

Dialogue Clarity

Both systems include dialogue enhancement modes, but handle them differently. The JBL's PureVoice technology uses advanced processing to separate speech from background sounds, making it easier to understand quiet conversations without turning up the volume. The Bose's simpler dialogue mode boosts mid-range frequencies where voices live.

In practice, the JBL maintains clearer dialogue even during intense action scenes thanks to its dedicated center channel speaker. The Bose improves upon TV speakers but can't match the separation and clarity of a discrete center channel.

Bass Response

This is where the systems differ most dramatically. The JBL's wireless 10-inch subwoofer delivers the kind of deep bass you feel in your chest during movie explosions or music. It can sometimes be too powerful for apartments, though the level is adjustable.

The Bose relies on small internal drivers and acoustic ports to produce bass. While it outperforms bare TV speakers, it can't reproduce the lowest frequencies that give sound its foundation. Action movies and bass-heavy music highlight this limitation most clearly.

Feature Sets and Connectivity

The JBL embraces modern connectivity with HDMI eARC (which allows high-quality audio from your TV), WiFi streaming, and voice assistant compatibility. You can stream music directly through built-in apps or connect via Bluetooth. The automatic room calibration optimizes sound for your space.

The Bose keeps it simple with basic HDMI ARC and Bluetooth. This means easy setup but fewer options for streaming and integration with other devices. There's no room correction or advanced processing available.

Practical Considerations

Room Size and Setup

I've tested both in various spaces, and room size significantly impacts the experience. The JBL's surround speakers and powerful sub need room to breathe - they're overkill in a small bedroom but shine in larger living spaces. The calibration system helps optimize placement.

The Bose's compact design works well in small rooms where a full surround system would be impractical. Its simple setup means no wrestling with speaker placement or complex calibration routines.

Use Case Scenarios

The JBL Bar 700 excels with movies and games where surround sound adds to the experience. Its powerful output and processing handle everything from quiet dialogue to explosive action. Music also benefits from the dedicated subwoofer and clear channel separation.

The Bose TV Speaker serves well for basic TV watching where improved dialogue clarity is the main goal. It's ideal for news, sports, and casual viewing where surround sound isn't critical. Music playback is acceptable but not a strength.

Making the Choice

Consider your priorities:

If you want the best possible sound and have the budget, the JBL delivers a true home theater experience. Its feature set future-proofs your investment, and the performance justifies the premium price for movie and music enthusiasts.

Choose the Bose if you:

• Need simple TV audio enhancement
• Have limited space
• Want minimal setup hassle
• Have a tight budget
• Don't need surround sound

Choose the JBL if you:

• Watch lots of movies
• Play games
• Listen to music
• Have a medium/large room
• Want future-proof features
• Can appreciate quality audio

The technology gap between these systems reflects their price difference. While both improve upon TV speakers, they serve different audiences with different needs. The JBL represents modern soundbar capabilities, while the Bose focuses on simplicity and accessibility.

Remember that middle-ground options exist between these price points. However, if you're deciding between these specific models, let your room size, content preferences, and budget guide the choice. Either way, you'll get better sound than your TV speakers alone.

JBL Bar 700 Dolby Atmos 5.1 Soundbar with Subwoofer Deals and Prices

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