In today's home theater landscape, soundbars have evolved from simple TV audio upgrades to sophisticated sound systems. Let's compare two compelling options: the premium JBL Bar 700 ($899) and the mid-range Yamaha SR-B40A ($399), released in 2023 and early 2024 respectively.
The soundbar market has transformed dramatically in recent years. What started as basic stereo speakers has evolved into complex systems that can simulate or deliver true surround sound. Today's buyers face choices between traditional 2.1 channel setups (two speakers plus a subwoofer) and more advanced configurations like 5.1 systems that add rear speakers and a dedicated center channel.
The key technologies driving this evolution are Dolby Atmos (which creates three-dimensional sound, including height effects) and advanced digital signal processing that can simulate surround effects from fewer speakers. Understanding these features is crucial for making an informed choice.
The JBL Bar 700 represents a premium approach with its 5.1 channel configuration. What sets it apart are its detachable wireless rear speakers - a clever innovation that lets you easily create true surround sound when wanted, while maintaining a cleaner look when not in use. These speakers recharge when attached to the main soundbar, offering about 10 hours of playback.
In contrast, the Yamaha SR-B40A takes a simpler but refined approach. Its 2.1 channel system focuses on delivering excellent stereo separation and clear dialogue, enhanced by virtual surround processing. This design choice helps keep costs down while still providing engaging sound.
Both systems excel in their respective price categories, but with notable differences:
The JBL's 10-inch subwoofer delivers deeper, more impactful bass - particularly noticeable in action movies and modern music. Its dedicated center channel provides clearer dialogue, while the rear speakers create genuine surround effects. The system's PureVoice technology uses AI algorithms to enhance dialogue clarity during loud scenes.
Yamaha's 6.5-inch subwoofer produces surprisingly robust bass for its size, with tight control that prevents muddiness. The main unit's four 1.8-inch drivers and two 1-inch tweeters create excellent stereo imaging. Yamaha's Clear Voice technology, while simpler than JBL's approach, effectively boosts dialogue frequencies.
Here's where things get interesting. The JBL simulates height channels through careful driver placement and digital processing, creating a reasonable illusion of overhead sound. Combined with physical rear speakers, it produces a more convincing 3D soundfield than most soundbars at this price point.
The Yamaha processes Atmos content but doesn't attempt to recreate height effects. Instead, it focuses on expanding the front soundstage and creating depth. This honest approach often works better than unsuccessful attempts at height simulation by other budget soundbars.
Room acoustics significantly impact soundbar performance. The JBL's more powerful system and dedicated rear speakers make it ideal for larger rooms up to 20x25 feet. The rear speakers' wireless design offers flexible placement options.
The Yamaha performs best in small to medium rooms up to 15x15 feet, where its focused soundstage and precise imaging create an engaging experience without overwhelming the space.
The JBL offers comprehensive connectivity: HDMI eARC (which allows high-quality audio pass-through), Wi-Fi for streaming, Bluetooth 5.0, and support for AirPlay and Chromecast. This makes it a versatile hub for all your audio needs.
The Yamaha focuses on essential connections: HDMI eARC and Bluetooth 5.1. While this might seem limited, it covers most users' needs while simplifying setup and operation.
JBL's system includes their One app for detailed audio adjustments and integration with voice assistants. The app offers room calibration features that optimize sound for your space.
Yamaha provides a basic but functional remote app, focusing on core features like sound modes and tone control. This simplified approach means less setup time but fewer customization options.
The JBL Bar 700 justifies its higher price through additional channels, more powerful hardware, and extensive features. For users seeking a premium experience with true surround capabilities, it represents good value despite the higher investment.
The Yamaha SR-B40A delivers exceptional performance for its price point. It focuses on core audio quality rather than additional features, making it an excellent choice for users prioritizing sound over extras.
Choose the JBL Bar 700 if:
Choose the Yamaha SR-B40A if:
The most critical factors in your decision should be:
Both systems represent different but valid approaches to modern home audio. The JBL offers a more complete home theater experience, while the Yamaha delivers excellent performance in a simpler package. Your choice should align with your specific needs and how you plan to use the system.
| JBL Bar 700 Dolby Atmos 5.1 | Yamaha SR-B40A 2.1 |
|---|---|
| Channel Configuration - Determines surround sound capability and immersion | |
| 5.1 channels with detachable wireless rear speakers | 2.1 channels with virtual surround |
| Total System Power - Impacts maximum volume and headroom | |
| 620W (240W soundbar, 2x40W surrounds, 300W sub) | 320W (120W soundbar, 200W sub) |
| Subwoofer Size - Affects bass depth and impact | |
| 10-inch wireless subwoofer | 6.5-inch wireless subwoofer |
| Dolby Atmos Support - Creates height effects for more immersive sound | |
| Full Dolby Atmos with virtual height channels | Basic Dolby Atmos decoding without height simulation |
| Connectivity Options - Determines streaming flexibility | |
| HDMI eARC, Optical, Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi, AirPlay, Chromecast | HDMI eARC, Optical, Bluetooth 5.1 |
| Main Unit Dimensions - Consider your TV stand space | |
| 46.2" x 2.2" x 4.7" | 35.8" x 2.6" x 5.2" |
| Extra Features - Additional functionality beyond basic audio | |
| PureVoice dialogue enhancement, room calibration, mobile app control | Clear Voice enhancement, basic tone controls, simple remote app |
| Battery Life - For wireless components | |
| 10 hours (detachable rear speakers) | N/A (no battery-powered components) |
| Price - Value consideration | |
| $899 (premium features justify cost for larger rooms) | $399 (excellent value for small/medium rooms) |
The JBL Bar 700 ($899) is superior for movies due to its true 5.1 surround sound with dedicated rear speakers and more powerful 10-inch subwoofer. The Yamaha SR-B40A ($399) is good for movies in smaller rooms but lacks true surround capabilities.
If you have a larger room and want true surround sound, the JBL Bar 700 justifies its price. However, for smaller rooms and basic TV viewing, the Yamaha SR-B40A offers excellent value at less than half the cost.
The Yamaha SR-B40A is ideal for small apartments due to its compact size and focused sound profile. The JBL Bar 700 may be overkill for small spaces and requires more room for rear speaker placement.
Both support Dolby Atmos, but differently. The JBL Bar 700 creates a more convincing Atmos effect with virtual height channels and physical rear speakers. The Yamaha SR-B40A processes Atmos content but focuses on front soundstage expansion.
Both excel at dialogue, but the JBL Bar 700 edges ahead with its PureVoice AI-enhanced dialogue technology and dedicated center channel. The Yamaha SR-B40A offers good clarity through its Clear Voice feature.
The JBL Bar 700 offers more streaming options with Wi-Fi, AirPlay, and Chromecast built-in. The Yamaha SR-B40A only supports Bluetooth streaming, which is sufficient for basic needs but less versatile.
The Yamaha SR-B40A is simpler to set up with fewer components and straightforward connections. The JBL Bar 700 requires more setup time due to its rear speakers and additional features.
The JBL Bar 700 at 46.2 inches wide works best with TVs 55 inches or larger. The Yamaha SR-B40A at 35.8 inches wide pairs well with TVs 43 inches and up.
The JBL Bar 700 provides a more immersive gaming experience with true surround sound and deeper bass. The Yamaha SR-B40A offers a good gaming experience but lacks the spatial precision of rear speakers.
Both soundbars can be wall-mounted. The JBL Bar 700 comes with wall-mounting brackets for both the main unit and rear speakers. The Yamaha SR-B40A includes wall-mounting hardware for the main unit.
The JBL Bar 700's 10-inch subwoofer delivers deeper, more powerful bass. The Yamaha SR-B40A's 6.5-inch subwoofer provides tight, controlled bass but can't match the JBL's low-end impact.
No, both soundbars work with any TV that has HDMI ARC or optical connections. However, to get the most from the JBL Bar 700's Dolby Atmos capabilities, a TV with HDMI eARC is recommended. The Yamaha SR-B40A works well with any modern TV.
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) - crutchfield.com - visions.ca - shop.usa.yamaha.com - bestbuy.com - bestbuy.com - usa.yamaha.com - my.yamaha.com - europe.yamaha.com - adorama.com - usa.yamaha.com - digitalhomecreations.com - europe.yamaha.com - sundownone.com
