REVIEW: JBL Authentics 500 Wireless Speaker

JBL has merged nostalgia with modernity in its latest release, the Authentics 500 wireless speaker. Drawing inspiration from its iconic designs of the 1970s, the Authentics 500 features retro elements like faux leather casing and the Quadrex grille, while incorporating cutting-edge technology for an exceptional audio experience. In this review, we take a look at the design, sound quality, and app connectivity of the JBL Authentics 500 to see how it stands out in today’s crowded speaker market.

Design & Build Quality

JBL’s heritage shines through in the Authentics 500, with its retro-inspired design elements like faux leather casing and the iconic Quadrex grille. These features, reminiscent of JBL’s 1970s designs, give the speaker a premium, nostalgic feel.

Despite its retro nods, the design remains subtle and fits well in modern home settings. The build quality is solid, with attention to detail evident in the tactile volume knob and overall construction.

The speaker’s down-firing subwoofer, tweeters, and mid-range drivers, along with JBL’s Slipstream bass port technology, deliver a room filling experience from a relatively compact package. There is also the option to connect the speaker to the internet via the ethernet port which is position low on the rear of the device, beside the power socket and aux and USB-Type C inputs.

Sound Quality

The sound quality of the Authentics 500 is impressive, particularly in the bass department. Its 6.5-inch down-firing subwoofer delivers powerful bass tones that are well-defined and not overpowering. The speaker also excels in highlighting vocals and maintaining clarity across the frequency range.

With support for Dolby Atmos, the listening experience is immersive, offering a sense of depth and spatial separation that standard stereo setups often lack. Tracks like Beyonce’s ‘Partition’ (my go-to bass-testing track) truly come to life, with vocals and instruments seemingly emanating from different directions.

App Connectivity

The Authentics 500 seamlessly integrates into your smart home setup, supporting streaming from various platforms like Spotify, Amazon Music, and Tidal over Wi-Fi. It can also be incorporated into multi-room systems with AirPlay, Alexa Multi-Room Music, or Google Chromecast.

The JBL One app provides control over music playback and allows adjustments to the speaker’s audio settings, including bass, treble, and mids. While track skipping is limited to the app, voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant offer hands-free control for various functions, enhancing the overall user experience.

Conclusion

JBL’s Authentics 500 strikes a perfect balance between retro design and cutting-edge audio technology. With its robust build quality and nostalgic aesthetics, it’s a standout addition to any home. The inclusion of high-end features like Dolby Atmos support elevates the listening experience, providing immersive soundscapes. Smart connectivity options ensure seamless integration into modern lifestyles, making the Authentics 500 a top choice for those seeking both style and exceptional audio performance.

JBL Authentics 500 Wireless Speaker Pricing & Availability

The JBL Authentics 500 is available in one finish (black with gold trim) with an RRP of €599. It’s available in Harvey Norman and Arnotts.