JBL Authentics 500

Loud and powerful ; Deep and imposing bass ; Supports multi-room and digital assistants

Expensive for the sound fidelity on offer ; No battery option

The Authentics 500 is a powerful wireless speaker that can double as a smart home controller with powerful and big sound, but it lacks audio finesse considering its cost.

Enthusiastic, bold sound ; Solid range of features ; Nicely made and simple to use

Sound lacks refinement and finesse ; On-unit controls feel a little cheap ; Up against tough competition

The Authentics 500 is more of a singalong rocker than a classically trained musician, favouring a bold, front-footed sound that just lacks for genuine subtlety.

Large-scale, organised, detailed and informative sound ; Compatible with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant ; Likeable looks if you like this sort of thing

Very specific sonic attitude won’t suit everyone, because... ; ...the word ‘wallop’ isn’t automatically a good thing ; Dolby Atmos sound is a strictly qualified success

With big, bold sound to match its big, bold looks, the JBL Authentics 500 is a powerhouse of a wireless speaker that’s sure to win plenty of admirers. Mostly those who crave low-frequency action and aren’t all that fussed about the Dolby Atmos side of...

Gorgeous retro design ; Powerful bass ; Can get very, very loud

Muddles complex arrangements ; Limited bass control ; Expensive

Big, loud, powerful and bassy. That's the JBL Authentics 500 in a nutshell when you look beyond the charmingly retro design.The bass and volume its capable of will impress many, but the sound needs better refinement to justify its high price.

Sounds very good and particularly with Atmos ; Well made ; Easy to use and quite flexible

No UPnP ; Limited inputs ; It's a big lad

Stylish retro design ; High-quality sound ; Deep bass reproduction

Takes up a lot of space ; Lofty price tag

In terms of design, the JBL Authentics 500 serves up a cheeky and appealing flirtation with the past. Functionally, it has everything you need for a smooth user experience, and sonically, there’s nothing to complain about. Drawbacks include a bulky...