JBL Authentics 500 Smart Home Speaker

4.8
Based on 75 customer reviews
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Customer Reviews Summary

The JBL Authentics 500 Smart Home Speaker has garnered widespread appreciation for its exceptional sound quality, robust build, and retro design. Customers have frequently highlighted its room-filling audio output, making it an ideal choice for music enthusiasts and home audio setups. The 270-watt power output, combined with Dolby Atmos support, ensures a high-fidelity listening experience that is both immersive and dynamic. Many reviewers were impressed by its ability to handle various music genres, from bass-heavy tracks to acoustic performances, with clarity and precision. The integration of Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa further enhances its functionality as a smart home device, allowing users to control music, manage smart home devices, and access information effortlessly.

Reviewers often describe the speaker as a perfect blend of modern technology and vintage aesthetics. Its versatile connectivity options and compatibility with multiple streaming services make it a practical choice for diverse audio needs. Whether using it as a standalone music system or integrating it into a larger smart home setup, the JBL Authentics 500 delivers consistent performance. Some users have also praised the ease of transitioning between devices and applications, facilitated by its seamless integration with the JBL One app.

Despite its numerous advantages, some users noted a few areas for improvement. The lack of advanced equalizer settings and limited connectivity options, such as the absence of RCA or HDMI inputs, were mentioned as minor drawbacks. Additionally, the size and weight of the speaker make it less portable and more suitable for a fixed indoor setup. However, these issues are generally outweighed by its audio quality and smart features. Overall, the JBL Authentics 500 strikes a balance between performance, design, and smart features, earning high praise from audiophiles and casual listeners alike.

PROS

  • Exceptional Sound Quality: Customers consistently praised the rich, clear, and powerful audio. “The sound has a full spectrum with crisp highs and deep bass,” noted one reviewer. Another added, “I was able to hear notes and details in songs that I’d never noticed before.”
  • Retro Design: The vintage aesthetic paired with modern functionality resonated with users. “It’s a beautiful speaker that blends seamlessly into any decor,” said a satisfied buyer. Its retro-inspired leather-wrapped exterior and removable grille are particularly appealing to design-conscious customers.
  • Dolby Atmos Support: The inclusion of Dolby Atmos creates an immersive audio experience, especially for spatial music tracks. “I could hear instruments in fuller and distinct ways,” a user commented. This feature enhances both music and home theater experiences.
  • Smart Assistant Integration: With support for both Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, users appreciated the dual functionality. “It’s like having two assistants in one room,” remarked a reviewer. The ability to use voice commands adds a layer of convenience.
  • Connectivity Options: The speaker offers versatile connections, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and Aux. “Seamless switching between devices makes it incredibly convenient,” shared a customer. It also supports AirPlay and Chromecast for easy streaming.

CONS

  • Bulky Size: The speaker’s large dimensions and weight make it less portable. “It’s a bit hefty and needs a dedicated spot,” one user pointed out. This makes it more suitable for stationary use in living rooms or media centers.
  • Limited Equalizer Settings: While the app allows basic adjustments, some users desired more detailed frequency controls. “I wish there were more customization options for audiophiles,” said a reviewer. This limitation may not satisfy those seeking precise sound adjustments.
  • Price Point: At a premium price, it may not fit everyone’s budget. “It’s worth it for the quality, but it’s still an investment,” noted a buyer. However, many agree that its performance justifies the cost.
  • Setup Challenges: A few users experienced initial difficulties with Wi-Fi setup. “The app could use some improvements for smoother configuration,” mentioned one customer. Most found the process easier after consulting the online manual or contacting support.
  • Exposed Woofer: The lack of a protective grille for the woofer raised durability concerns. “I’m cautious about where I place it to avoid damage,” said a reviewer. This design choice requires careful handling.

Who Should Buy?

The JBL Authentics 500 is an excellent choice for those who value high-quality sound and stylish design. Audiophiles, home theater enthusiasts, and music lovers who appreciate Dolby Atmos support and smart assistant integration will find this speaker to be a perfect fit. It’s particularly suitable for users who have a fixed space to dedicate to a speaker and are looking for a premium audio solution that enhances their living environment. The speaker’s ability to handle diverse music genres and provide a concert-like experience makes it a versatile addition to any home.

This speaker is also ideal for users who enjoy modern smart home technology and want a device that integrates effortlessly with their existing systems. Whether controlling devices via voice commands or streaming music through various platforms, the JBL Authentics 500 caters to a wide range of preferences and needs.

Do Users Recommend This Product?

Yes, the majority of users recommend the JBL Authentics 500, citing its superior sound quality, versatile features, and aesthetic appeal as standout aspects. Many emphasized its ability to deliver a “concert-like experience” at home, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking an all-in-one audio solution. Users frequently praised its ability to fill large spaces with rich, dynamic sound while maintaining clarity and balance.

While the price and size may deter some buyers, the overall consensus is that the speaker’s performance and functionality justify its cost. The combination of advanced audio technology, smart features, and timeless design ensures that the JBL Authentics 500 stands out in a competitive market. For those willing to invest in a premium speaker, this product delivers an exceptional audio experience and adds a touch of sophistication to any home.

Check it out on Amazon

See the latest pricing for JBL Authentics 500 – Wireless Home Speaker with Bluetooth, Voice Control, and Dolby Atmos, Multi Room Playback, Built in Alexa and Google Assistant on Amazon

Overview

Product Page: JBL Authentics 500 | Hi-fidelity smart home speaker with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and Voice Assistants with retro design.
Click on the link above to go to the official product page and get more detailed information about the product.

Customer Reviews

Updated on December 30, 2024

Showing 110 reviews of 75 reviews.

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TerryOctober 5, 2023

Never Heard a Smart Speaker Like This

For starters, you’ll need to download the JBL One app to set up a wifi connection. I experienced some difficulty of my own doing at first. If you use a VPN on your phone, make sure it’s disconnected both during setup and whenever the speaker is in use. Once that is taken care of, everything should go smoothly. The Alexa and Google capability it nice. If you already have an Alexa or Google device in the same room, you may want to move the device to enjoy in another room. You’ll no longer need it since the speaker is on standby whenever it’s plugged in. Otherwise, your voice command may be interpreted by the wrong device as if it’s up for grabs for whichever device hears it best.

Now for the sound. I have an old school higher end component system that I’ve enjoyed for years. Does the JBL Authentics 500 rival the component system? Not quite. Is the sound any less enjoyable? Definitely not. I love the fidelity from a different perspective. It has tight booming bass. No muddiness there at all. The midrange is out front, and the highs are crystal clear while still maintaining linearity and balance across the spectrum. I can’t say enough about the highs. Cymbals crash with an ambience and spatiality that would make it hard pressed to tell the exact location of the speaker if blindfolded. They appear to radiate from walls and reflective surfaces. I listened for a good two hours after unboxing. I just couldn’t stop. When wirelessly connecting my speaker to the TV, it caused me question if I any longer had a need for my soundbar. It’s that impressive. Something would be amiss if I didn’t mention the dynamic range. It’s difficult to describe the sonic differences between the softest and loudest passages. It goes from “I can barely hear that” to “Boom!” with the introduction of a drum. My video doesn’t do it justice.

The speaker has a simple control panel that’s easy to use and likewise for the the app. Not too much junk you don’t need in the app. I love the built in equalizer that lets you drag your finger to shape the sound curve. No individual frequency slide controls needed. If you have an Alexa music plan, you’ll also have access to virtually any album or CD you’ve ever owned without the hassle of queing it up. The JBL Authentics 500 is a big winner in my book! The times, they sure are a changin’.

WRHSeptember 30, 2023

JBL hit it out of the park with this.

Exactly as described and frankly, their pictures are better than mine so I didn’t post any.

JBL has been making superior audio products since 1946 and this is no exception.
This makes most other Bluetooth/Wi-Fi enabled portable speakers look and sound like toys.
It’s not light and it’s not small.

The JBL Authentics 500 does not run off of batteries. There is a power supply built into the unit and it comes with a power cord.
Setup? Well, if you are a complete novice you may hit some snags but have some patients and all will be OK.
There is a manual (of sorts) but I found the one on line (PDF) to be more inclusive with the facts.
Pairing this with your phone is easy. The Wi-Fi is slightly more difficult but I still found it to be easy.
Once connected to the Wi-Fi the unit almost immediately found a software/firmware update so I let it do it’s thing – which took about 12 minutes. I noticed no changes in it’s operation but it’s always best to keep that stuff up to date.
The app is simple and you can do things like adjust the volume or EQ. You can also connect to other networks/phones or even another JBL 500.
There is a 1/8″ audio jack for direct input and a USB port for the same but I believe the USB port in other countries is only for updates. That may change in the future.

How does it sound? Great! I was expecting something good and that is what I got. The bass was suprisingly good for something this size.

While Alexa and Google Assistant are handy, It’s unlikely that I will be using those features. I don’t like being eavesdropped on. Many people do use those features and find them to be very useful. It’s just not for me.

Tonight, weather depending, will be this unit’s first workout. The 500 will be placed on the back deck and faced towards my firepit. Should be fun.

Worth it? Absolutely. I can 100% recommend this.

DavidNovember 29, 2023

Excellent !! EXCELLENT !!!

Decided to get rid of Alexa studio and all the stupid problems it had . Paid up for this JBL system HIGHLY recommend this. Honest it actually works perfectly Very very good

HmirzaSeptember 13, 2023

BASS YOU CAN FEEL!!!

The JBL Authentics 500 is a beautifully designed high-end smart home speaker that delivers impressive sound quality, modern features, and a retro finish. The smart speaker features 270 watts of 3.1 channel sound with virtual Dolby Atmos, which creates a lifelike musical experience that makes you feel like you’re hearing your music live. The speaker also has three 2.5mm tweeters, three 2.75″ midrange woofers, and a 6.5″ down-firing subwoofer, which provide clear and balanced sound with bass that you can feel.

The JBL Authentics 500 is a fairly large sized speaker. It measures about 17.6 x 9.5 x 10.1 and weighs about 17.2 lbs. and in terms of features, the JBL Authentics 500 is packed with goodies. It has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, so you can stream music from your favorite devices. It also supports voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant simultaneously, so you can control your music, get information, and more with your voice. The speaker also has a built-in Chromecast, so you can cast music, videos, and other content from your smartphone or tablet with room filling audio. You can even answer phone calls to the speaker if you like. Paired with the JBL One app, you can also access supported music services such as Amazon Music, Tidal, Calm Radio, iHeart Music, Napster, Qobuz, and TuneIn. The app also allows you adjust the equalizer if you like, access WIFI settings, connect WIFI streaming, and set up your Google assistant and Amazon Alexa. The speaker also features automatic self-tunning, meaning it automatically calibrates and optimizes the audio every time you power it up and let me tell you the quality of the sound, the music, and the bass will amaze you every time.

The JBL Authentics 500 is also a stylish speaker that will look great in any room. It has a premium aluminum frame, custom leather-like enclosure, and Quadrex grille. The design was inspired by classic JBL heritage designs. This speaker will look amazing in any room of your home.

Pros:
• Powerful sound with virtual Dolby Atmos
• Powerful Bass
• Wide range of features, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, voice assistants, and Chromecast, WIFI Streaming
• Ability to connect multiple speakers throughout your home
• Stylish retro design

Cons:
• Not as portable. The 500 series is a fairly large device and not as easily moved from place to another.

I have been using this speaker for about a week now and every time I put some music on, it leaves me in awe. I love some bass in my music, so I enjoy the deep heart pounding bass that this speaker has to offer, also while being able to control my smart home features all from one place.
Overall, the JBL Authentics 500 is an excellent smart home speaker that delivers impressive sound quality, modern features, and looks. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a high-end speaker that can fill any room with amazing life-like sound that also make your life a bit more convenient.

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aguyincaSeptember 30, 2023

Fantastic hardware, lots of connection options

The speakers themselves sound great with lots of connectivity options. The JBL One App gives a 3 band equalizer while the speaker box has a bass and treble wheel. The default settings were a bit bassy for me, but these speakers are loud and clear. The 500 seems best for a home media center, while the 300 is best as a portable speaker. The 500 was loud enough for my entire house, with a decibel meter 3 ft away reading up to 106dBA.
The JBL One app is used to set up the wifi connection and stream music services. This speaker works with Hey Google/Chromecast, Alexa, and Apple Airplay. The music services currently supported in app are: Amazon Music, Calm Radio, iHeartRadio, Napster, Qobuz, TIDAL, and TuneIn. To play from other sources like Pandora, I have to go through the Google Chromecast (or other) app.
I really appreciate JBL is trying to tie all of these services together. I like that Alexa and Google can both be connected simultaneously. (I don’t use Apple AirPlay). Likewise basic functions (volume, bass, play, pause, etc..) works well between the hardware of the speaker and the software App. Changing the settings on the speaker showed up in the App without lag (and vice versa).
It’s still a little clunky switching between services. It works well, but I feel the app interface flow could be improved to make this easier. For example, Amazon Music is played through “In-app Music” section. If I want to switch to Pandora, I open the Pandora app and then use the Cast button to connect to the speaker. In fact, the Cast button is the way I use most because it works with YT Music, Audible, Pandora and Spotify. Mostly I just use the JBL app to setup the device and EQ. Perhaps JBL could create a passthrough function in their app by adding a “Cast” button instead of doing this from a separate app.
Most of the time I cast through another app or plug in with the 3.5mm AUX.
The next connection method I tested was via Bluetooth. I use this method if I am watching something on my phone/laptop (YouTube, Netflix, etc..) and want audio played on the 500 speaker. Note, YT Music streams to this speaker, but YouTube videos only Cast to a video device. This worked great on my phone, for my laptop my connection dropped.. but I think this is due to the laptop audio drivers, not the 500 speaker.
The final way I connected was via the AUX line-in 3.5mm port. This is the old fashioned way to connect a phone or other analog input source. I still like this method! If I just want to play from a phone or mp3 player, this wired method doesn’t require any apps or streaming. I also tried the USB-C port, it did not allow me to play audio, it just charged my phone. According to the manual, the US Version should support playback via USB-C. This feature isn’t a must have for me, but hopefully a future software update will fix it.
The only concern I have is the 6.5″ woofer located in the bottom of the speaker box. JBL WHY did you not include a speaker grille! The Authentics 500 isn’t a portable speaker, it is made to sit in one spot, plug into the wall and connect mostly through wireless. However, I would hate to think someone out there will rest this on the corner of a table for a moment, or accidently set this down on something that punctures the speaker. For me, I’ll just plug it in and try to never move it.

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SimeNovember 2, 2023

Exceeded my expectations!!!

When I tell you that the sound quality of the speaker is absolutely top tier especially when the base hits. This speaker is truly unlike any speaker I’ve ever owned before. It is a little bit on the thicker and chunkier side but it has a beautiful appearance, and can blend in with any living room or bedroom setting. it isn’t that portable because it is a little bit on the bigger side and needs to be plugged in to work. But I am in love with the speaker. I wanted to truly give it an honest review. I’ve had it for a few weeks now I wanted to see how well it could hold up. I also love that this gives you an option of either airplay or connecting it via Bluetooth. It does also give you the option to hook up through Alexa as well. Which is pretty cool if you don’t already have an echo show or an echo Dot. JBL never disappoints. This is a really high-quality top-notch speaker!

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J0A0A7February 2, 2024

Retro look with quality-of-life improvements

The JBL has rolled out a new lineup that pays homage to their premium 1970s speakers. The Authentics 500 is their top-of-the-line speaker for this series of speakers. JBL made sure to pay proper homage cause not only does it look nice but it sounds nice too.

JBL has spare no expense to detail from the feel and look of the leather-wrapped cabin to the front grille that can be removed if you prefer. It’s a very nice-looking premium speaker. In my opinion, this is one of the best-looking speakers that JBL has designed so far.

For set-up, there’s not much to it besides plugging in the power cord and downloading the JBL One app. You don’t have to download the app, but I do recommend you do. The app allows you to join a Wi-Fi connection, firmware updates, and adjust the equalizer settings. I prefer using the app to adjust the equalizer since it’s hard to tell what level you have the bass/treble set to with the rotating knobs located at the top of the speaker. With built-in mics at top the Autentics 500 also supports Alex and Google voice assistants. If you like both assistants no worries you can run both at the simultaneously.

I’ve always been a fan of the JLB sound of the box and this one does not disappoint either. Pushing 270w of sound from 6-speakers in the front and a 6.5 down-firing woofer, you will hear and feel the beats of your favorite songs. For most of my listening experience, I left it at the default sound profile. The sound has a full spectrum sound to it that sounds sharp with a satisfying bass punch. It even supports Dolby Atmos for surround sound reproduction without the need fors 8+ speakers. Overall it’s a great-sounding speaker that can get plenty loud without distortion. Especially if you stream high quality songs from Tidal, Spotify and Apple Music. With that 6.5 down-firing woofer it also does well acting as a soundbar for your Tv.

For audio inputs you do get 1 audio in jack for analog, and for wireless it’s supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connection. For the best sounding experience Wi-Fi is the way to go to take advantage of those Dolby Atmos certified tracks.

In my opinion the JBL Authentics 500 is probably the best sounding premium smart speaker at this time for this price range. It also doesn’t hurt that it’s probably the best looking speaker currently in the market too. It’s a pricey speaker that it’s a no brainer if you can get it on sale.

DerekSeptember 9, 2023

Fantastic sound, with a few caveats

I’ve spent a week with the JBL Authentics 500, and I have been extremely impressed by the detailed sound, deep bass, and loud volume.

The Authentics 500 has an ‘old school’ look. JBL calls it ‘retro’ because it mirrors its own designs of the 1970s. I like it, my wife not so much. The speaker is what I would call big for a wireless speaker, taking up a decent amount of real estate. But that great sound has to come from somewhere, so I don’t mind having a slightly bigger speaker. Three large knobs adorn the top of the Authentics 500, one for volume, and one each for bass and treble. In a nice touch, all three knobs also have a cool light display that scrolls around with the knob to show you how much volume, bass, or treble has been set.

JBL also notes that the Authentics 500 is made in large part using recycled materials. I really like when manufacturers build their components using recycled materials, it signals a concern for the sustainability of our environment and keeps stuff out of landfills.

JBL also states the the Authentics 500 has an automatic calibration procedure that sets itself up anywhere it is moved to. They don’t say how this happens, just that it is automatic. I tried the speaker in half a dozen places or so, and it always sounded good to me, so I suppose it is working…

Connection-wise, there is a standard aux port (a nice touch), a USB-C connection, Bluetooth (I’m assuming SBC and AAC, JBL does not specify) and WiFi (as well as an Ethernet port). All of my listening was done either via Bluetooth or WiFi using AirPlay. I attempted to use Roon with the JBL Authentics 500 as an endpoint with AirPlay, but for whatever reason it wouldn’t work. Not a showstopper, but I was bummed that I couldn’t stream my extensive personal collection to the Authentics 500.

The Authentics 500 also supports Dolby Atmos, such as what you can stream from Apple Music. I did test this ability extensively and found it to add an additional dimension to the music. The soundstage got wider and taller. It’s a cool feature included in a wireless speaker, and I can’t think of other wireless speakers on the market that implement Dolby Atmos.

For Bluetooth, I connected my AT wireless turntable to the Authentics 500 and spun a few albums using Bluetooth. As I mentioned before, JBL doesn’t specify (or at least I couldn’t find it) what types of Bluetooth are supported (the AT turntable transmits as high as AptX), so I’m assuming that the connection was just lossy SBC. Pretty sure JBL would advertise if it could receive and decode AptX. The sound was still pretty good, considering.

Any music streamed via Apple Music sounded great. Since it was played via Airplay, I’m going to assume that it was not ‘Hi-Res’ and was just limited to an AAC stream of 16/48. JBL calls the Authentics 500 a ‘High Fidelity’ speaker, not Hi-Res, nor did I see any Hi-Res badging on it or the box. Again, I’m just assuming, because I couldn’t find any literature from JBL or on the internet that stated what sample rates the Authentics 500 could handle (other than MP3 supported sample rates via USB, and nothing was over 16 bits).

For me, I had three things that I was disappointed in with the Authentics 500. One, I couldn’t stream .flac files to it (that’s my entire library); two, it wouldn’t play files from Roon (my library manager); and three, it didn’t seem capable of playing Hi-Res files.

I took one star off for those shortcomings, because manufacturers such as Denon and SONOS which are in the same price range support .flac, Roon streaming, and Hi-Res (at least 24/44.1). The Authentics 500, in my opinion, is the best sounding wireless speaker I have had, it’s just missing a couple of the specifications that I really would like to have in a wireless speaker.

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