JBL Bar 800 Review

Summary / TL;DR

The JBL Bar 800 is a sleek soundbar designed to enhance your home audio experience without the complexity of a full surround sound system. Its minimalist design and robust features aim to deliver rich, immersive audio. The detachable rear speakers and wireless subwoofer add flexibility and depth to the setup, although some minor build quality issues and the need for regular charging of the satellites are worth noting.

Audio performance is impressive, with strong bass and clear highs and mids. Dolby Atmos support provides a 3D audio experience, though the sound can get muddy at high volumes. The soundbar offers extensive connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HDMI eARC, and voice control, although the voice recognition can be inconsistent.

Setup is straightforward, with wireless connections and auto-calibration features making it accessible even for tech novices. However, some users may experience issues with HDMI settings and audio sync. The package includes all essentials, but lacks batteries for the remote.

User experience is generally positive, with intuitive volume controls and easy-to-navigate sound modes. The wireless subwoofer and rear speakers reduce cable clutter, but require nearby power outlets. The soundbar remembers the last connected device, which can be both a convenience and a minor annoyance.

Overall, the JBL Bar 800 offers good value for money with its strong audio performance, ease of use, and solid build quality, making it a worthwhile investment for most home entertainment setups.

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If you like this review, you might also like our review on the JBL Xtreme 4 or JBL Partybox 710 or JBL Bar 1300.

Introduction

Looking for a way to elevate your home audio experience without breaking the bank? The JBL Bar 800 might just be your answer. Soundbars have become a popular choice for anyone wanting to boost their TV audio without the clutter of a full surround sound system. With its sleek design and impressive features, this soundbar aims to deliver a rich, immersive audio experience.

But does it really live up to the hype? And more importantly, is it the right fit for your entertainment setup? We’re here to break it all down and give you the lowdown on what this soundbar brings to the table. From its design and build quality to its audio performance, we’ll cover all the essentials. We’ll also touch on some of the drawbacks, because let’s face it, no product is perfect.

Stay tuned as we dissect every aspect of the JBL Bar 800, making sure you get a comprehensive look at what this soundbar has to offer. By the end of this review, you'll have a clear idea of whether it’s worth your investment or if you should keep looking. Ready to get started? Let's go!

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Design and Build Quality

First impressions matter, and the design and build quality of the JBL Bar 800 don't disappoint. This soundbar is sleek and modern, with a streamlined design that easily fits into any living room setup. The main unit boasts a minimalist aesthetic with clean lines and a matte black finish that feels premium to the touch. The detachable rear speakers are a real game-changer. They magnetically snap onto the sides of the main soundbar, making them easy to store when not in use and giving a futuristic vibe when attached. However, the magnets could be a tad stronger; sometimes, they don’t feel as secure as you’d like. The wireless subwoofer is another highlight. It's compact enough to tuck away discreetly but still substantial enough to deliver some serious bass. The overall build feels solid and durable, though the plastic construction on some parts does slightly detract from the high-end feel.

• Dimensions: The soundbar is relatively compact, measuring around 35 inches in length, making it suitable for most TV setups without overpowering the space.
• Weight: Weighing in at just over 6 pounds for the main unit, it’s easy to handle and install, although the subwoofer is a bit heftier.

The buttons and ports are conveniently located on the back of the soundbar, keeping the design clean and uncluttered. However, some users might find it a little frustrating to reach around and plug in cables, especially if the soundbar is mounted on a wall. In summary, the JBL Bar 800 nails a balance between style and substance. It’s a well-thought-out design that not only looks good but also offers practical features. Still, a few minor tweaks could make it even more user-friendly.

Audio Performance

The audio performance of this soundbar is nothing short of impressive. Right out of the box, you'll notice the powerful, room-filling sound that belies its sleek profile. The bass is deep and resonant, giving your music and movies a solid foundation. It's like having a mini-theater in your living room. Dolby Atmos support is a standout feature, creating an immersive 3D audio experience. You can actually feel the sound moving around you, which is perfect for action-packed movies or atmospheric soundtracks. The soundbar also handles highs and mids well, delivering clear vocals and detailed instrumentals. However, it's not all roses.

The sound can occasionally get a bit muddy at extremely high volumes. While the bass is strong, it sometimes overpowers the mids, making some details harder to distinguish. It's a minor flaw but worth mentioning if you're an audiophile who demands perfect clarity. The detachable satellite speakers add another layer to the performance. They can be placed around the room for true surround sound. While the satellite speakers are great for adding depth, they require regular charging, which can be a bit of a hassle if you forget. Overall, the audio performance of this soundbar is stellar, especially for its price range. It effortlessly enhances your listening experience, making it a great choice for both casual listeners and serious sound enthusiasts.

Features and Connectivity

The JBL Bar 800 comes packed with a range of features that make it a solid contender in the soundbar market. Let's break it down.

Wireless Connectivity is a major boon. This soundbar has built-in Wi-Fi, allowing you to stream music directly from your favorite services like Spotify and Apple Music. There's also Bluetooth support, making it easy to connect your smartphone or tablet without any cables.

HDMI eARC is another standout feature. This allows for high-quality audio transmission and makes it compatible with the latest audio formats. If your TV supports eARC, you’re in for a treat with crystal clear sound. Additionally, there are multiple HDMI inputs, so you can hook up multiple devices like gaming consoles or Blu-ray players.

Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support bring immersive, 3D audio to your living room. These technologies create a multi-dimensional sound experience, making you feel like you're right in the middle of the action. Whether you're watching a blockbuster movie or listening to a live concert, the audio quality is top-notch.

Voice Control is also integrated. The JBL Bar 800 is compatible with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Imagine adjusting the volume or changing tracks with just your voice—super convenient, right? However, some users have found the voice recognition to be a bit hit or miss, particularly in louder environments.

There are also some handy additional features. The soundbar comes with a built-in Chromecast, and AirPlay 2 support is baked in. This makes it easy to stream content from a variety of devices. On the downside, the lack of a dedicated app for fine-tuning settings can be a slight hassle. While the remote control is functional, having an app would add another layer of convenience for those who love to tinker with settings. Overall, the JBL Bar 800 offers robust connectivity options and features that cater to modern home entertainment needs. Whether you're streaming music, gaming, or watching movies, this soundbar has got you covered.

Ease of Setup

Setting up the JBL Bar 800 is a breeze, even if you're not a tech guru. The whole process is pretty intuitive. Once you unbox everything, you'll find that the soundbar and accompanying subwoofer connect wirelessly, sparing you the hassle of tangled cables.

To get started, plug the soundbar into your TV using the provided HDMI cable. If your TV supports ARC (Audio Return Channel), the connection will be even smoother. Simply plug in the power cords, and you're almost good to go.

The JBL Bar 800 also comes with a handy remote. You won’t need to fumble with multiple remotes because this one can control both your TV and the soundbar. How convenient is that?

One notable feature is the auto-calibration. The soundbar adjusts its audio settings based on your room's acoustics. Just press a button on the remote, and the system does its thing, optimizing sound quality. It's like having a mini sound technician right in your living room!

There’s also an app you can download to fine-tune settings, if you prefer a more hands-on approach. The app is user-friendly, making adjustments straightforward.

However, be mindful that the setup might involve a bit of trial and error, especially if you're not familiar with HDMI settings. Some users have found that certain TV models require additional steps for optimal audio sync. But once everything is connected, the sound experience is well worth the initial effort.

All in all, the ease of setup of the JBL Bar 800 makes it accessible for everyone, from tech novices to audio enthusiasts. So, whether you're setting it up for a movie night or just some background music, you'll have it ready in no time.

What's in the Box

Opening the box for the JBL Bar 800 feels like unwrapping a present on your birthday. You're eager to see what's inside. Here's a quick rundown of what you get:

• Soundbar Unit: The main piece of the puzzle, sleek and stylish.
• Wireless Subwoofer: Ready to deliver those deep bass notes to shake your room.
• Detachable Surround Speakers: These little guys can be placed around your room for true surround sound.
• Remote Control: Essential for lazy days when you don't want to get up from the couch.
• HDMI Cable: For connecting to your TV and ensuring high-quality audio.
• Power Cables: One each for the soundbar and subwoofer, because they need some juice.
• Wall Mount Brackets: If you prefer your soundbar up on the wall rather than sitting on a shelf.
• Quick Start Guide: To get you up and running without having to Google anything.

One thing to note, though, is that there are no batteries included for the remote. You might have to make a quick trip to the store if you don't have some lying around. Also, while the HDMI cable is included, if you need extra cables for additional devices, you'll have to get those separately. Overall, everything you need to get started is there, making it pretty hassle-free.

User Experience

Using the JBL Bar 800 is like having a mini home theater. The sound quality is immersive, making you feel like you're right in the middle of the action. But, let's be real: not everything is perfect. Volume controls are straightforward thanks to the intuitive remote. The buttons are tactile and well-labeled, so you won't be fumbling around in the dark trying to adjust the volume. But here's where it gets a bit tricky - the remote isn't backlit. So, if you're watching a movie with the lights off, it can be a bit of a guessing game. The soundbar's on-screen display is minimalistic, and in this case, less is definitely more. It doesn't overwhelm you with too much information, but gives you just what you need. Still, it might take some time to get used to the icons and what they represent. Setting up the sound modes is super easy. The system walks you through different profiles like "Movie" and "Music" with clear prompts. Feeling like a DJ switching up the vibe? This feature makes it a breeze to change the audio feel to match your content. But, if you're someone who loves tweaking every little setting, you might find the customization options a bit limited.

One big plus is the wireless subwoofer and rear speakers. No more tripping over cables! However, make sure you've got enough power outlets nearby. These components need their own power source, which might require some rearranging of your setup. Voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant integrate smoothly, but the initial pairing process can be a bit finicky. It's like teaching an old dog new tricks; once it's done, it’s great, but getting there might test your patience. The soundbar remembers your last connected device, making it super convenient for those who frequently switch between watching TV and streaming music from their phone. No need to constantly reconnect. Yet, this feature can be a double-edged sword if multiple devices are competing for attention. It might prioritize the wrong one sometimes. In essence, the JBL Bar 800 offers a robust and mostly user-friendly experience. A few minor hiccups are there, but they’re far outweighed by the benefits.

Value for Money

For a soundbar, the all-important question is: Is it worth the money? The JBL Bar 800 sits at a price point that's neither too high nor too low, making it a strong contender for those looking to upgrade their home audio without breaking the bank. When considering audio performance, the JBL Bar 800 shines with its immersive sound and powerful bass. This isn't just any run-of-the-mill soundbar; it delivers a cinematic experience that can transform your living room. If you're someone who watches a lot of movies or loves to feel every beat of your music, you'll likely find this soundbar to be a great investment. However, no product is without its flaws. Some users might find that the lack of certain advanced features, like voice control or an integrated smart assistant, is a bit of a letdown. While these aren't deal-breakers for everyone, they might make you pause if you're looking for a completely future-proof system.

The ease of setup and the straightforward user experience greatly add to its value. You won't need to be a tech wizard to get this soundbar up and running. This user-friendly approach can save you time and frustration, which is a big plus in my book. In terms of durability and build quality, the JBL Bar 800 feels solid and well-constructed. This isn't a device you'll need to replace anytime soon, which adds to its overall value. Investing in something that lasts is always a wise choice. Finally, let’s talk about price versus features. You get a lot of bang for your buck with this soundbar. It's not cheap, but it's certainly not overpriced considering what you get. If you're after a soundbar that offers a rich, immersive audio experience without requiring a second mortgage, the JBL Bar 800 is a smart purchase. In summary, while it might not have every single feature under the sun, the JBL Bar 800 offers excellent value for money. Its strong audio performance, ease of use, and solid build make it a worthwhile investment for most home entertainment setups.

Video by: JBL

Conclusion

In summing it all up, the JBL Bar 800 nails most of the important aspects you'd expect from a modern soundbar. Its strong audio performance with immersive soundscapes makes it a big win for movie buffs and gamers alike. The design is sleek, ensuring it fits well in most living rooms without hogging attention. On the downside, while the features and connectivity options are pretty robust, some might find the initial setup a bit cumbersome.

However, the trade-off is worth it once everything is up and running smoothly. Additionally, the price tag might not fit every budget, but considering the extensive feature set and quality, it generally offers good value for money. So, if you're on the hunt for a soundbar that delivers on performance and looks without too many compromises, the JBL Bar 800 is certainly worth considering.

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Pros & cons

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Technical specifications