JBL Bar 5.0

Big, full-bodied presentation ; Dolby Virtual Atmos ; Multi-room options

Could be more detailed ; Dynamic expression poor ; Slovenly sense of timing

If you have a big space to fill without a big budget, the JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam is up to the task

Convincingly enhances TV audio quality ; All-in-one box solution - no sub/separates taking up space ; Good musicality as a speaker ; Atmos adds extra dimensionality

Lacks true surround ; No sub/separates to later enhance setup ; Calibration/presets not obvious ; Occasional syncing issues ; Passthrough can be slow

If you're looking to enhance your TV's audio prospects and don't own a super-massive screen, this unobtrusive single box solution does a sterling job for an affordable price - with only a few minor hiccups along the way.

Two HDMI inputs

Controls make setup difficult

Sleek and simple design ; Compact size ; Full, well-balanced sound thanks to Dolby Atmos ; Works with Google Assistant and Alexa

No app

Despite its rather simple design, the

Simple and easy to use ; Dolby Atmos ; AirPlay ; Chromecast

No EQ settings ; Bass can't compete with subwoofers

“This single-speaker soundbar is the easiest way to add Dolby Atmos to your TV.”

Auto-volume mode. Gets pretty loud. Bass adjustment feature.

No graphic EQ. Lacks low-bass. No dialogue enhancement feature.

The JBL Bar 5.0 is decent for mixed usage. With its room correction feature turned on, this soundbar offers a boxy sound profile out-of-the-box, which adds a little extra punch and boom to your audio. However, it struggles to reproduce a thumpy...

Great value for a faux Dolby Atmos soundbar ; Small and compact for smaller homes and apartments ; Equally good sound reinforcement on TVs with/out DV and DA ; Great centre clear dialogue reinforcement

Needs the right room to deliver Virtual (faux) Dolby Atmos ; No app or EQ for adjustable Bass, treble enhancement etc

While it is strictly a 5.0 all-in-one soundbar it can decode Dolby Atmos to give a faux spatial experience.

Atmos support ; Auto calibration ; Impressive bass without a subwoofer

Few sound adjustments ; No app

, offer more control but lack the upfiring speakers that are essential for Atmos height, and they come with more speakers. If you’re interested in an all-in-one Atmos soundbar, the Bar 5.0 MultiBeam is definitely worth a listen — and it may be a great...

Great, rich sound with plenty of bass even without a subwoofer. Very easy to use. Auto calibration.

Colored bass. Generally a bit rough sound. Virtual Dolby Atmos works better on paper than in practice. Subwoofer cannot be connected.

JBL Bar 5.0 MultiBeam is a very simple soundbar: Connect it, easily connect it to the wi-fi network, and get on with movies or music. It supports both Chromecast, Airplay 2 and Bluetooth.