As home theater technology advances, soundbars have become increasingly sophisticated, offering cinema-quality audio in compact packages. Today, we're comparing two premium offerings: the JBL Bar 700 ($899) and the LG S95TR ($999), both featuring Dolby Atmos technology - a surround sound format that creates a three-dimensional audio experience by precisely placing sounds around and above you.
Modern soundbars have evolved far beyond simple stereo speakers. They now incorporate multiple channels, wireless subwoofers, and advanced processing to create immersive soundscapes. The technology behind Dolby Atmos has particularly revolutionized home audio, allowing sounds to move around your room in a three-dimensional space, rather than just from left to right.
Both the JBL Bar 700 and LG S95TR represent the current state of this technology, though they take different approaches to delivering premium audio experiences.
The most significant difference between these systems lies in their channel configurations. The JBL offers a 5.1 setup (five speakers plus one subwoofer), while the LG boasts a 9.1.5 arrangement (nine regular channels, one subwoofer, and five height channels).
The LG's additional channels aren't just numbers - they translate to more precise sound positioning. For instance, during a rainstorm scene, you'll hear individual raindrops more distinctly placed around the room. However, this advantage becomes more noticeable in larger spaces where the extra speakers have room to create their effect.
Both systems feature powerful subwoofers, but their approaches differ. The JBL's 10-inch subwoofer delivers tight, controlled bass that works well for both movies and music. The LG's subwoofer can produce more volume, though some users report it needs careful adjustment to avoid overwhelming other frequencies.
JBL's PureVoice technology stands out here, using advanced algorithms to ensure dialogue remains clear even during intense action scenes. The LG handles dialogue well too, but occasionally requires tweaking the center channel levels for optimal performance.
The LG's additional channels create a more nuanced sound field, especially noticeable in scenes with lots of ambient noise or movement. The JBL compensates with excellent processing that makes the most of its fewer channels.
The JBL Bar 700 takes a straightforward approach to room calibration, using a built-in microphone to measure your room's acoustics. While you'll need to recalibrate if you move the rear speakers, the process is quick and reliable.
The LG S95TR offers more advanced AI Room Calibration, though user experiences vary. Some report excellent results, while others find the default settings more satisfying. This highlights an important consideration: more complex systems aren't always better if they're harder to optimize.
Both soundbars offer comprehensive connectivity options, including:
The LG adds WOWCAST, enabling wireless TV connection with compatible LG TVs - a nice feature if you're already in the LG ecosystem.
In practical use, both systems excel, but in different ways. The JBL Bar 700 provides a more consistently satisfying experience across different content types and room sizes. Its balanced approach means you're less likely to need frequent adjustments as you switch between movies, TV shows, and music.
The LG S95TR can deliver more impressive spatial effects when properly set up in an appropriate space. However, it may require more tweaking to achieve optimal performance, and its advantages are most noticeable in larger rooms where the additional channels have space to create their effect.
At $899, the JBL Bar 700 represents excellent value for most users. Its reliable performance and straightforward operation make it a safe choice that won't disappoint. The LG S95TR at $999 offers more features and potentially better performance, but requires more setup effort and room space to justify its premium.
Choose the JBL Bar 700 if you:
Choose the LG S95TR if you:
Both systems represent current technology, with the LG released in late 2022 and the JBL in early 2023. The JBL shows refinement in its processing algorithms, particularly in dialogue enhancement, while the LG pioneered features like WOW Orchestra that integrate with other devices.
The category continues to evolve, with manufacturers focusing on better room correction and more sophisticated processing rather than just adding more speakers. This trend suggests that future improvements will likely come from software and processing advances rather than hardware alone.
In conclusion, both soundbars deliver excellent performance, but they serve different user needs. The JBL Bar 700 offers a more accessible, reliable experience that will satisfy most users, while the LG S95TR provides more features and potential performance for those willing to optimize their setup. Consider your room size, usage patterns, and tolerance for setup complexity when making your choice.
| JBL Bar 700 | LG S95TR |
|---|---|
| Price - Total investment required | |
| $899 (better value for typical rooms) | $999 (premium for additional channels) |
| Channel Configuration - Determines sound positioning precision | |
| 5.1 channels (solid for medium rooms) | 9.1.5 channels (better for larger spaces) |
| Power Output - Impacts maximum volume and clarity | |
| 620W total (240W soundbar + 300W sub) | 810W total (more headroom for large rooms) |
| Subwoofer Size - Affects bass performance | |
| 10" driver (tighter, more controlled bass) | 8" driver (higher output but less precise) |
| Height Channels - Key for Dolby Atmos overhead effects | |
| Virtual height channels | 5 physical up-firing drivers (more precise height effects) |
| Rear Speakers - Important for surround immersion | |
| Detachable battery-powered (10hr battery) | Fixed wireless (requires power outlets) |
| Room Calibration - Optimizes sound for your space | |
| Simple but effective single-mic system | AI Room Calibration (more complex, mixed results) |
| Special Features - Additional capabilities | |
| PureVoice dialogue enhancement, Portable rear speakers | WOW Orchestra, Private listening mode, Triple up-firing drivers |
| Connectivity Options - Streaming and input flexibility | |
| HDMI eARC, WiFi, BT 5.0, AirPlay, Chromecast | HDMI eARC, WOWCAST, WiFi, BT, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect |
| Sound Profile - Out-of-box performance | |
| Well-balanced, minimal adjustment needed | Bass-heavy default, requires more tweaking |
| Size (Soundbar) - Space requirements | |
| 46.2" x 2.2" x 4.7" (more compact) | 49.2" x 2.4" x 5.3" (larger footprint) |
The LG S95TR ($999) offers better movie performance with its 9.1.5 channels and triple up-firing speakers, providing more precise sound positioning. However, the JBL Bar 700 ($899) still delivers excellent movie performance at a lower price point.
The JBL Bar 700 offers better value at $899, providing robust performance and features for most users. The LG S95TR costs $100 more and while it has additional channels, many users won't notice the difference in typical rooms.
The JBL Bar 700 has simpler setup and calibration processes. The LG S95TR offers more advanced features but requires more time and effort to optimize settings.
The JBL Bar 700 features a 10-inch subwoofer that provides tighter, more controlled bass. While the LG S95TR can produce louder bass, it sometimes requires adjustment to avoid overwhelming other frequencies.
The JBL Bar 700 is more suitable for small to medium rooms, with its 5.1 channel setup providing excellent performance in confined spaces. The LG S95TR's additional channels are less beneficial in smaller rooms.
The JBL Bar 700 excels in dialogue clarity with its PureVoice technology. While the LG S95TR also performs well, it sometimes requires center channel adjustment for optimal dialogue performance.
Neither the JBL Bar 700 nor LG S95TR require wall mounting and work well placed on a TV stand. Both include wall-mounting options if preferred.
Both soundbars offer comprehensive streaming support. The JBL Bar 700 and LG S95TR include WiFi, Bluetooth, and support for popular services like AirPlay and Chromecast.
The JBL Bar 700 provides more balanced, consistent music playback. The LG S95TR can deliver excellent music performance but may require more adjustment of settings.
Yes, both the JBL Bar 700 and LG S95TR work with any TV that has HDMI ARC/eARC connections. The LG offers additional features when paired with LG TVs.
The LG S95TR offers more precise surround sound with its 9.1.5 channel configuration. However, the JBL Bar 700's 5.1 setup still provides convincing surround sound for most users.
Both soundbars support current audio formats and connectivity standards. The LG S95TR might have a slight edge with more channels, while the JBL Bar 700 focuses on reliable core features that will remain relevant.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: crutchfield.com - harmanaudio.com - target.com - jbl.com - walmart.com - dell.com - jbl.com.pdf) - techradar.com - bestbuy.com - youtube.com - trustedreviews.com - zdnet.com - rtings.com - lg.com - lambcotvandappliance.com - valueelectronics.com - romomattressfurniture.com - dolby.com - youtube.com
LG S95TR 9.1.5 Channel Soundbar with Dolby Atmos Soundbar
JBL Bar 700 Dolby Atmos 5.1 Soundbar with Subwoofer
JBL Bar 1000 Surround Sound System with 7.1.4 Channel Soundbar, 10" Wireless Subwoofer, Detachable Rear Speakers, and Dolby Atmo
12 Must-Have Soundbars On Sale That Will Leave You Speechless! Save Up To 56% On Sony, Bose, JBL, and More!
