As TVs get thinner, their built-in speakers keep getting worse. That's where soundbars come in, offering a simple way to dramatically improve your TV audio without the complexity of a traditional home theater setup. Let's explore two very different approaches to solving this problem.
Modern soundbars have evolved far beyond simple stereo upgrades. Today's options range from basic audio enhancement to sophisticated surround sound systems that can simulate or create true 3D audio. The technology has advanced significantly, with features like Dolby Atmos (which adds height channels to create a more immersive experience) becoming increasingly common.
When choosing a soundbar in 2024, we're looking at several key factors:
The JBL Bar 700 and Yamaha SR-B30A represent two distinct approaches to TV audio enhancement. The JBL takes the premium route with a full surround sound setup, while the Yamaha offers a simplified all-in-one solution.
The JBL Bar 700 system includes:
The Yamaha SR-B30A features:
The difference in bass handling between these systems is substantial. The JBL's dedicated 10" subwoofer delivers deep, room-filling bass down to 35Hz - you'll feel explosions and music with physical impact. This separate unit can be positioned anywhere in your room for optimal sound.
The Yamaha's built-in 3" subwoofers provide surprisingly capable bass for their size, but physics limits what's possible. They can't match the JBL's depth or power, but they're well-tuned for dialogue and most TV content.
This is where the price difference becomes most apparent. The JBL creates true surround sound with its detachable rear speakers and Dolby Atmos processing. When watching movies, you'll hear sounds distinctly behind you and even get a sense of height effects through virtual processing.
The Yamaha uses digital processing to simulate surround effects from its single unit. While effective for its price point, it can't match the immersion of physical rear speakers. However, for smaller rooms or casual viewing, many users find this compromise acceptable.
Both systems offer dedicated dialogue enhancement:
In testing, the JBL's more sophisticated processing maintains better clarity during complex scenes with multiple sound effects.
The JBL Bar 700 offers comprehensive connection options:
The Yamaha provides essential connections:
The JBL integrates deeply with smart home systems:
The Yamaha offers basic smart features:
The JBL Bar 700 requires more thoughtful setup:
The Yamaha SR-B30A is more flexible:
The JBL's $899.95 price tag buys:
The Yamaha's $279.95 price delivers:
The JBL system offers more growth potential:
The Yamaha provides:
Consider these key factors:
Choose the JBL Bar 700 if:
Choose the Yamaha SR-B30A if:
Both soundbars represent solid choices within their respective price points. The JBL Bar 700 delivers a premium home theater experience with true surround sound, while the Yamaha SR-B30A offers impressive performance in a simple, space-saving design. Your choice ultimately depends on your specific needs, space constraints, and budget priorities.
| JBL Bar 700 ($899.95) | Yamaha SR-B30A ($279.95) |
|---|---|
| Audio Configuration - Determines surround sound capability | |
| 5.1 channel with physical rear speakers | 2.1 virtual surround simulation |
| Total Power Output - Impacts maximum volume and dynamic range | |
| 620W (ample for large rooms) | 120W (suitable for small/medium rooms) |
| Subwoofer Configuration - Affects bass quality and impact | |
| 10" wireless external subwoofer (300W) | Dual 3" built-in subwoofers (60W combined) |
| Dolby Atmos Support - Enables overhead sound effects | |
| Yes, with dedicated height virtualization | Yes, basic virtualization only |
| Connectivity Options - Determines streaming flexibility | |
| HDMI eARC, WiFi, Bluetooth 5.0, AirPlay, Chromecast | HDMI eARC, Bluetooth 5.1 only |
| Physical Dimensions - Consider your space constraints | |
| 34.8" wide soundbar + 12" x 17.3" subwoofer + rear speakers | 35.7" wide single unit |
| Smart Features - Affects integration with other devices | |
| Voice assistant support, multi-room audio, app control | Basic app control only |
| Room Size Suitability - Choose based on your space | |
| Best for rooms >200 sq ft | Ideal for rooms <200 sq ft |
| Setup Complexity - Consider installation effort | |
| Multiple components, calibration required | Simple plug-and-play setup |
| Extra Features - Added value considerations | |
| PureVoice dialogue enhancement, detachable wireless surrounds | Clear Voice technology, wall-mountable |
The JBL Bar 700 ($899.95) is significantly better for movies due to its true 5.1 surround sound with physical rear speakers and powerful 10" subwoofer. The Yamaha SR-B30A ($279.95) provides good movie audio but lacks true surround capabilities.
For home theater enthusiasts, the JBL Bar 700 justifies its higher price with superior sound quality, true surround sound, and Dolby Atmos support. However, if you're just looking for improved TV audio, the Yamaha SR-B30A offers excellent value.
The Yamaha SR-B30A is ideal for small spaces due to its all-in-one design and built-in subwoofers. The JBL Bar 700 requires more space for its separate subwoofer and rear speakers.
Yes, both the JBL Bar 700 and Yamaha SR-B30A feature HDMI eARC connections, ensuring high-quality audio from your TV and simplified control through your TV remote.
The JBL Bar 700 delivers superior bass with its dedicated 10" wireless subwoofer. The Yamaha SR-B30A's built-in 3" subwoofers provide adequate bass for casual viewing but can't match the JBL's depth and impact.
The Yamaha SR-B30A requires no wall mounting as it's a single unit. The JBL Bar 700 includes detachable wireless rear speakers that can be placed on stands or mounted.
The JBL Bar 700 offers more streaming options with WiFi, AirPlay, and Chromecast built-in. The Yamaha SR-B30A only supports Bluetooth streaming.
Both systems feature dialogue enhancement technology, but the JBL Bar 700's PureVoice technology is more sophisticated than the Yamaha SR-B30A's Clear Voice feature.
The JBL Bar 700 provides a more immersive gaming experience with true surround sound and Dolby Atmos support. The Yamaha SR-B30A offers good gaming audio but lacks positional audio benefits.
The JBL Bar 700 works with voice assistants and supports multi-room audio. The Yamaha SR-B30A does not offer voice assistant compatibility.
The Yamaha SR-B30A offers simpler plug-and-play setup. The JBL Bar 700 requires more setup time to position multiple components and calibrate the system.
While both support Dolby Atmos, the JBL Bar 700 provides more convincing Atmos effects with its dedicated speakers. The Yamaha SR-B30A offers basic Atmos virtualization through its single unit.
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) - usa.yamaha.com - worldwidestereo.com - audiolab.com - shop.sg.yamaha.com - consumerreports.org - usa.yamaha.com - vinylsound.ca - bestbuy.com - modernappliancewoodward.com - bluestardist.com - target.com - my.yamaha.com
