Jbl 5.1 soundbar vs harman kardon: which immersive audio system reigns supreme?

In the world of home entertainment, soundbars have become an essential component for elevating the audio experience. Two leading brands in this arena are JBL and Harman Kardon, each offering a range of soundbars with exceptional features. In this blog post, we will delve into a comprehensive comparison of the JBL 5.1 soundbar and the Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 soundbar, exploring their key specifications, performance, and features to help you make an informed decision for your home audio needs.

Design and Build Quality

JBL 5.1 Soundbar: The JBL 5.1 soundbar boasts a sleek and compact design, measuring 35.4 inches in length and 2.3 inches in height. Its low-profile form factor makes it easy to place under your TV without obstructing the screen. The soundbar is constructed from durable materials and features a stylish matte black finish.

Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700: The Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 soundbar presents a more premium and sophisticated aesthetic. It has a wider profile, measuring 41 inches in length and 2.5 inches in height. The soundbar is meticulously crafted with a premium fabric grille and a brushed metal base, exuding both elegance and durability.

Speaker Configuration and Sound Quality

JBL 5.1 Soundbar: The JBL 5.1 soundbar features a 5.1-channel speaker configuration, comprising three front-firing channels, two side-firing channels, and a dedicated subwoofer. This setup delivers immersive surround sound, enveloping you in a rich and dynamic audio experience. The soundbar supports Dolby Digital and DTS codecs, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of content.

Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700: The Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 soundbar takes sound performance to a new level with its 7.1.4-channel configuration. It incorporates seven front-firing channels, four up-firing channels, and two side-firing channels, along with a wireless subwoofer. This advanced setup creates an incredibly wide and immersive soundstage, delivering a cinematic audio experience that transports you into the heart of the action. The soundbar supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X codecs, enabling you to enjoy the latest object-based audio formats.

Connectivity and Features

JBL 5.1 Soundbar: The JBL 5.1 soundbar offers a range of connectivity options, including HDMI ARC, optical, and auxiliary inputs. It also supports Bluetooth wireless streaming, allowing you to connect your smartphone or tablet for music playback. The soundbar comes with a remote control for convenient operation.

Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700: The Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 soundbar boasts a more comprehensive suite of connectivity options. In addition to HDMI ARC, optical, and auxiliary inputs, it features built-in Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity for network streaming. The soundbar supports AirPlay 2, Chromecast, and Bluetooth, providing seamless wireless connectivity with your smart devices. It also has an integrated voice assistant, allowing you to control the soundbar and access music hands-free.

Price and Value

JBL 5.1 Soundbar: The JBL 5.1 soundbar offers exceptional value for its price range. It delivers a solid 5.1-channel surround sound experience, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an immersive audio upgrade for their home theater system.

Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700: The Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 soundbar commands a higher price point but justifies its premium status with its advanced 7.1.4-channel configuration, superior sound quality, and comprehensive feature set. It is an excellent choice for discerning audiophiles who demand the best possible home audio experience.

Which Soundbar Is Right for You?

The choice between the JBL 5.1 soundbar and the Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 soundbar ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget.

• If you seek an affordable and capable 5.1-channel soundbar with a compact design, the JBL 5.1 soundbar is an excellent choice.
• If you prioritize the most immersive and feature-rich audio experience, the Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 soundbar is the superior option, offering a wider soundstage, advanced connectivity, and voice assistant integration.

Verdict

Both the JBL 5.1 soundbar and the Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 soundbar are outstanding choices for enhancing your home audio setup. The JBL 5.1 soundbar provides a solid foundation for immersive surround sound at an accessible price, while the Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 soundbar delivers an unparalleled audio experience with its advanced features and exceptional sound quality. Ultimately, the best soundbar for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.

What You Need to Know

1. Which soundbar has a wider soundstage?
The Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 soundbar has a wider soundstage due to its 7.1.4-channel configuration and up-firing channels.

2. Does either soundbar support Dolby Atmos?
Yes, the Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 soundbar supports Dolby Atmos, while the JBL 5.1 soundbar does not.

3. Can I control either soundbar with my voice?
Yes, the Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 soundbar has an integrated voice assistant, while the JBL 5.1 soundbar does not.

4. Which soundbar has more connectivity options?
The Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 soundbar has more connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, AirPlay 2, Chromecast, and Bluetooth.

5. Which soundbar is more affordable?
The JBL 5.1 soundbar is more affordable than the Harman Kardon Citation MultiBeam 700 soundbar.