RT
“Built-in and simultaneous support for both Alexa and Google Assistant, along with automatic self-tuning, makes the Authentics 500 the most flexible premium smart speaker tested.”
Is the JBL Authentics 500 worth it?
The JBL Authentics 500 is recommended with a 8.8/10 consensus score across 2 expert reviews. Experts highlight 270w 3.1-channel output with 6.5-inch down-firing subwoofer handles larger rooms and rare simultaneous alexa and google assistant support. What Hi-Fi? says: "The JBL Authentics 500 is a rare smart speaker that sounds as premium as it look..." Best for: Single-speaker dedicated music rooms, Multi-assistant households, Users wanting statement aesthetics.
Recommended2 Expert Reviews
Price Range
$649–$699
$649-$699 list270W 3.1-channel sound2 expert sources
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JBL Authentics 500
NM
Nicholas Miles · Editor-in-Chief & Methodology Owner
Premium Speakers
Expert consensus
How we score08.8/1010
2 expert sources · 2 quoted
2 quoted sources with published scores
- RTINGS 8.7/10
- What Hi-Fi? 9/10
Expert Consensus across 2 sources
Updated:Editorial consensus score: SmartHomeExplorer's synthesis of the 2 published expert reviews listed on this page. Not a user rating.
“The JBL Authentics 500 is a rare smart speaker that sounds as premium as it looks — the 270W output and 6.5-inch subwoofer give it real weight in a dedicated music room.”
Key Features
- ✓ 270W 3.1-channel sound
- ✓ 6.5-inch down-firing subwoofer
- ✓ Simultaneous Alexa + Google Assistant
- ✓ Virtual Dolby Atmos
- ✓ Automatic self-tuning
Best For
Single-speaker dedicated music roomsMulti-assistant householdsUsers wanting statement aesthetics
JBL Authentics 500 vs. the alternatives
How the JBL Authentics 500 stacks up against other Smart Speakers options on price, expert consensus, and ecosystem support.
| Product | Price | Consensus | Works With | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JBL Authentics 500This page | — | 8.8/10 | Amazon Alexa | Recommended |
| Sonos Era 300 | $479 | 9.2/10 | — | Must Buy |
| Bose Smart Speaker 600 | $349 | 8.4/10 | Amazon Alexa | Recommended |
| Harman Kardon Citation One | $249 | 7.9/10 | — | Recommended |
The JBL Authentics 500 ($649-$699 list) earns a 8.8/10 expert consensus across 2 sources, versus the Sonos Era 100 at $219 list (8.9/10 consensus). It works with Amazon Alexa.
What Experts Agree On
What Experts Love
- ✓ 270W 3.1-channel output with 6.5-inch down-firing subwoofer handles larger rooms
- ✓ Rare simultaneous Alexa and Google Assistant support
- ✓ Automatic self-tuning calibrates to placement on initial setup
- ✓ Premium retro build with leather-like enclosure and cast-aluminum handle
- ✓ Supports AirPlay, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qplay
Common Criticisms
- ✗ $699 puts it at the top of the smart speaker price ladder
- ✗ Large 17.87-inch footprint commits desk or shelf space
- ✗ Virtual Dolby Atmos lacks true height drivers (unlike Sonos Era 300)
What The Experts Say
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the JBL Authentics 500 worth it?
The JBL Authentics 500 earns a 8.8/10 consensus score across 2 expert sources and is rated "Recommended". It is best for Single-speaker dedicated music rooms. What Hi-Fi? is among the named sources behind that consensus.
How much does the JBL Authentics 500 cost?
We do not have a verified current price for the JBL Authentics 500. It earns a 8.8/10 consensus score across 2 expert reviews with a "Recommended" rating, which is strong value relative to the ~7.5/10 average for Smart Speakers products. Check the live figure at the retailer before buying.
Who is the JBL Authentics 500 best for?
The JBL Authentics 500 is best for Single-speaker dedicated music rooms, Multi-assistant households, Users wanting statement aesthetics. Experts rate it "Recommended" with a 8.8/10 consensus across 2 sources.
How does the JBL Authentics 500 compare to other Smart Speakers options?
Among the Smart Speakers products we have aggregated, the JBL Authentics 500 ranks above average with a 8.8/10 score. RTINGS adds: "Built-in and simultaneous support for both Alexa and Google Assistant, along with automatic self-tuning, makes the Authentics 500 ..."
What smart home systems does the JBL Authentics 500 work with?
The JBL Authentics 500 works with Amazon Alexa.
What are the best alternatives to the JBL Authentics 500?
If the JBL Authentics 500 (8.8/10) is not the right fit, the closest alternatives in Smart Speakers are Sonos Era 300, Apple HomePod 2nd Gen, Sonos Era 100. Compare them on price, ecosystem support, and expert consensus to find your match.
What are the pros and cons of the JBL Authentics 500?
The main strengths of the JBL Authentics 500 are 270w 3.1-channel output with 6.5-inch down-firing subwoofer handles larger rooms and rare simultaneous alexa and google assistant support. The most-cited downside is $699 puts it at the top of the smart speaker price ladder. Overall, 2 expert sources rate it "Recommended" with a 8.8/10 consensus score.
Decided on the JBL Authentics 500?
$649-$699 list270W 3.1-channel sound2 expert sources
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Sources & Methodology
This review aggregates 2 independent expert reviews into a single consensus score. See how we build consensus scores.
Expert review sources cited on this page:
- What Hi-Fi?
- RTINGS
Affiliate disclosure: SmartHomeExplorer.com participates in the Amazon Associates program. We earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.This consensus review is based on 2 independent expert reviews — we did not test this product ourselves. Always verify current prices and availability before purchasing.
Independence notice: Smart Home Explorer is an independent publication. JBL and other product names, logos, and brands referenced on this page are the property of their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. This review is not sponsored by, affiliated with, or endorsed by JBL or any other manufacturer named in this article.