JBL BAR 500MK2 Owner's Manual

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

Verify Line Voltage Before Use
The JBL BAR 500MK2 has been designed for use with 100-240 volt, 50/60 Hz AC current. Connection to a line voltage other than that for which your product is intended can create a safety and fire hazard and may damage the unit. If you have any questions about the voltage requirements for your specific model or about the line voltage in your area, contact your retailer or customer service representative before plugging the unit into a wall outlet.

Do Not Use Extension Cords
To avoid safety hazards, use only the power cord supplied with your unit. We do not recommend that extension cords be used with this product. As with all electrical devices, do not run power cords under rugs or carpets, or place heavy objects on them. Damaged power cords should be replaced immediately by an authorized service center with a cord that meets factory specifications.

Handle the AC Power Cord Gently
When disconnecting the power cord from an AC outlet, always pull the plug; never pull the cord. If you do not intend to use this speaker for any considerable length of time, disconnect the plug from the AC outlet.

Do Not Open the Cabinet
There are no user-serviceable components inside this product. Opening the cabinet may present a shock hazard, and any modification to the product will void your warranty. If water accidentally falls inside the unit, disconnect it from the AC power source immediately, and consult an authorized service center.

1. INTRODUCTION

Thank you for purchasing the JBL BAR 500MK2 which is designed to bring an extraordinary 3D sound experience to your home entertainment system. We encourage you to take a few minutes to read through this manual, which describes the product and includes step-by-step instructions for setting up and getting started.

To make the most of product features and support, you may need to update the product software through the Internet in the future. Refer to the software update section in this manual to ensure that your product has the latest software.

Designs and specifications are subject to change without notice. If you have any questions about the soundbar, installation or operation, please contact your retailer or customer service representative, or visit our website: www.jbl.com.

JBL One app

With the JBL One app, you can:

• Easily complete product setup.
• Connect *music streaming services.
• Discover new music with integrated music services.
• Access software updates when they are available.
• Personalize audio settings.
• Access additional features.

For more information, see "5.3 Connect to your home network” and "7.5 Play over your home network”.

NOTES: *Subscription may be needed and not provided by the JBL One app. App screens in this Owner's Manual may vary due to software updates. Always follow the app instructions.

2. WHAT'S IN THE BOX

Unpack the box carefully and ensure that the following parts are included. If any part is damaged or missing, do not use it and contact your retailer or customer service representative.

3. PRODUCT OVERVIEW

3.1 Soundbar

3.1.1 Front panel & Top panel

3.1.2 Back panel

3.2 Subwoofer

3.3 Remote control

4. PLACE

4.1 Desktop placement

Place the product on a flat and stable surface. Refer to the recommended distances for optimal performance:

NOTES: The power cord shall be properly connected to power. Do not place any objects on the top of the product.

4.2 Wall-mounting

NOTES: Make sure the wall can support the soundbar's weight. Install on a vertical wall only. Avoid locations with high temperature or humidity. Ensure cables can be properly connected before wall-mounting. Unplug the soundbar from power before wall-mounting to avoid electric shock.

5. CONNECT

5.1 Connect with your TV and digital devices

Connect the soundbar to your TV using the supplied HDMI cable or an optional optical cable for audio playback. HDMI offers the best option for digital audio and video with a single connection.

NOTES: HDMI connection is prioritized over optical if both are connected. Full compatibility with all HDMI-CEC devices is not guaranteed. The HDMI cable for digital device connection and the optical cable are sold separately.

5.1.1 TV (HDMI eARC)

This is the recommended connection for the best Dolby Atmos experience.

Instructions:

1. Connect the soundbar to your TV's HDMI IN (eARC) connector using the supplied HDMI cable. Ensure HDMI-CEC and HDMI eARC are enabled on your TV.
2. Connect your digital device (e.g., streaming device, set-top box, DVD/Blu-ray player, game console) to the soundbar's HDMI IN using an HDMI cable (V2.0 or later). Ensure HDMI-CEC is enabled on your digital device.
3. On your TV and digital device, select "Bitstream" or "Raw data" in the audio output settings for the best Dolby Atmos experience.

NOTES: To play audio from the digital device connected to your TV, select the TV source. The virtual Dolby Atmos upmixer can expand legacy channel-based audio for an immersive 3D Atmos experience.

5.1.2 TV (HDMI ARC)

Instructions:

1. Connect the soundbar to your TV's HDMI IN (ARC) connector using the supplied HDMI cable. Ensure HDMI-CEC and HDMI ARC are enabled on your TV.
2. Connect your digital device to the soundbar's HDMI IN using an HDMI cable (V2.0 or later). Ensure HDMI-CEC is enabled on your digital device.
3. On your digital device, select "Bitstream" or "Raw data" for the best Dolby Atmos experience.

NOTES: To play audio from the digital device connected to the soundbar, select the HDMI IN source. If your TV does not support HDMI ARC, connect your digital device to the soundbar's HDMI IN connector instead of your TV.

5.1.3 OPTICAL

Instructions:

1. Connect the soundbar to your TV using an optical cable.
2. Use an HDMI cable (V2.0 or later) to connect your TV with your digital device.

NOTE: To play audio through the optical cable, select the TV source.

5.2 Connect to your Bluetooth device

Connect the soundbar with your Bluetooth device (smartphone, tablet, laptop) for audio streaming. Keep devices within 10 m / 33 ft.

5.2.1 Connect a Bluetooth device

1. Select the Bluetooth source by pressing the Bluetooth button on the soundbar or remote control. The display shows "BT PAIRING".
2. On your Bluetooth device, enable Bluetooth and search for "JBL BAR 500MK2" within three minutes. The display will show "BT CONNECTED" upon successful connection, and a confirmation tone will be heard.

5.2.2 Reconnect the last paired device

The soundbar automatically reconnects to the last paired device when switched to Bluetooth source after being in standby.

5.2.3 Connect to another Bluetooth device

1. In the Bluetooth source, hold the Bluetooth button on the soundbar or remote control until "BT PAIRING" is displayed.
2. Follow Step 2 under "5.2.1 Connect a Bluetooth device". If the device was previously paired, unpair "JBL BAR 500MK2" on the device first.

NOTES: Bluetooth connection may be lost beyond 10 m / 33 ft. Keep devices generating electromagnetic waves away from the soundbar.

5.3 Connect to your home network

Use the JBL One app and supported streaming services (Google Cast, AirPlay, Spotify Connect) to stream audio from smartphones or tablets.

Instructions:

1. On the soundbar, enter Wi-Fi setup mode by pressing any button to wake it up. If not connected to a network, it displays "HELLO" then "SETUP WIFI".
2. Connect your Android™ or iOS device to your home Wi-Fi network and download the JBL One app.
3. Launch the JBL One app and follow the app instructions to complete Wi-Fi setup.

Status: A solid white indicator light means the soundbar is connected to your home network.

You can stream music from the JBL One app or enabled streaming services (See "7.5 Play over your home network”).

NOTES: If the soundbar is not discovered by the JBL One app, hold the Volume Down (-) and Power buttons together for over 10 seconds to re-enter Wi-Fi setup mode. You can rename the soundbar in the JBL One app. On iOS devices, add the soundbar to the Apple Home app. AirPlay streaming requires the latest iOS, iPadOS, or macOS. Availability of streaming services varies by country.

6. SETUP

6.1 Connect power

NOTES: Use only the supplied power cord. Ensure all other connections are made before connecting to power (See "5.1 Connect with your TV and digital devices").

6.2 3D surround sound

6.2.1 Sound calibration

Optimize your 3D surround sound experience for your listening environment.

1. On the remote control, press the / CALIBR button to start calibration. "CALIBRATION" is displayed on the soundbar.
2. When "PRESS AGAIN TO CONFIRM" is displayed, press / CALIBR again. A countdown from 5 to 1 occurs, followed by a calibration tone. The display shows "CALIBRATING" (in progress) and then "DONE" (completed).

NOTES: All remote buttons are disabled during calibration except . During calibration, environmental sound is recorded. Holding / CALIBR for over 10 seconds, then pressing / allows playback of recorded audio (US version only).

6.2.2 Dolby Atmos

Enjoy height sound effects when playing movies from the TV / HDMI IN source with virtual Dolby Atmos.

1. Connect and play content from your Blu-ray player or streaming device as described in "5.1 Connect with your TV and digital devices".
2. Press the button on the remote control to switch height sound effects on or off (default is on).

NOTES: If you prefer no height sound effects, switch off Dolby Atmos. Dolby Atmos effects apply only to Dolby Atmos audio content.

6.2.3 Bass adjustment

Adjust bass levels as needed.

• On the remote control, press the / BASS button to switch between bass levels. "LVL1" to "LVL5" is displayed (default is "LVL3").

7. PLAY

7.1 Power-on/Auto standby/Auto wakeup

7.1.1 Switch on

Press any button on the soundbar or remote control to switch it on. The subwoofer reconnects automatically, and its indicator turns solid white.

7.1.2 Auto standby

If inactive for over 10 minutes, the soundbar enters standby mode ("STDBY"). It will return to the last selected source upon waking up. The subwoofer also goes to standby and its indicator turns solid amber.

7.1.3 Auto wakeup

The soundbar wakes up automatically from standby mode when:

• Connected to your TV via HDMI eARC/ARC and the TV is switched on.
• Connected to your TV and digital device via HDMI, and the digital device is switched on.
• Connected to your home network and audio is streamed via music streaming services.

7.2 Play from the TV source

Enjoy TV audio through the soundbar when connected.

1. Ensure your TV is set to support external speakers and its built-in speakers are muted.
2. Verify the soundbar is properly connected to your TV (See "5.1 Connect with your TV and digital devices").
3. Select the TV source by pressing the button on the soundbar or the TV button on the remote control. The display shows "TV".

NOTE: The TV source is selected by default in factory settings. If both HDMI and optical cables are connected, HDMI is prioritized for TV connection.

7.2.1 TV remote control setup

Use your TV remote to control the soundbar if your TV supports HDMI-CEC.

HDMI-CEC

If your TV supports HDMI-CEC, enable it in your TV's settings to control volume, mute, and power functions of the soundbar with your TV remote.

TV remote control IR learning

Program the soundbar to accept IR commands from your TV remote.

1. On the soundbar, hold the and + buttons until "LEARNING" is displayed to enter IR learning mode.
2. Point your TV remote at the soundbar. Follow on-screen instructions to operate POWER, VOL+, VOL-, or MUTE buttons on your TV remote. The soundbar will display "DONE" upon learning.

NOTE: The soundbar exits IR learning mode automatically after 30 seconds of inactivity. To exit manually, hold and + until "EXIT LEARNING" is displayed.

7.3 Play from the HDMI IN source

Play video on your TV and audio from the soundbar via the HDMI IN connection.

1. Ensure the soundbar is properly connected to your TV and digital device (See "5.1 Connect with your TV and digital devices").
2. Switch on your digital device. Your TV and soundbar will wake up and switch to the correct input source.
3. To select the HDMI IN source, press the button on the soundbar or the HDMI button on the remote control.

NOTE: Full compatibility with all HDMI-CEC devices is not guaranteed.

7.4 Play from the Bluetooth source

Stream audio from your Bluetooth device to the soundbar.

1. Select the Bluetooth source by pressing the button on the soundbar or remote control.
2. Ensure the soundbar is properly connected to your Bluetooth device (See "5.2 Connect to your Bluetooth device").
3. Start audio playback on your Bluetooth device.
4. Adjust volume on the soundbar, remote, or Bluetooth device.

7.5 Play over your home network

NOTES: The soundbar supports audio streaming only, not video. During Wi-Fi streaming, playback may pause if you start streaming from a second device. Ensure your Android or iOS device is on the same Wi-Fi network as the soundbar (See "5.3 Connect to your home network").

7.5.1 Play with Google Cast

Stream audio from your Android or iOS device to the soundbar using Google Cast.

1. Launch the JBL One app and ensure Google Cast is enabled.
2. On a Google Cast-enabled app, play music, tap the cast icon, and select the connected soundbar.

NOTE: *Subscription may be needed and not provided by the JBL One app.

7.5.2 Play through AirPlay

Stream audio from your iOS device to the soundbar using AirPlay.

1. On your iOS device, swipe down from the upper right corner to open Control Center.
2. Tap to select the connected soundbar and start audio streaming from an app.

7.5.3 Play through the JBL One app

Stream audio from enabled music services to the soundbar via the JBL One app.

On your Android or iOS device:

• Launch the JBL One app, browse available *music streaming services, select music, and start streaming to the soundbar.

7.6 Multi-room playback

Stream music to multiple Google Cast / AirPlay-enabled soundbars from your Android or iOS device.

7.6.1 Google Cast

1. Using the Google Home app, connect multiple Google Cast-enabled soundbars to the same network, assign them to rooms, and create groups.
2. Run a Google Cast-enabled app on your smartphone or tablet.
3. Play music and select the grouped speakers.

NOTES: To create a multi-room group, ensure all soundbars are on the same network and logged into the same Google account. Network bandwidth affects streaming quality to multiple soundbars (up to 6).

7.6.2 AirPlay

1. On an iOS device, enter the Control Center.
2. Tap to select multiple connected speakers as needed.
3. Start music streaming from an app.

8. ADVANCED USAGE

8.1 Sound settings (Audio sync)

Synchronize audio and video to eliminate delay.

1. On the remote control, hold TV for over 3 seconds, then press +. "SYNC" is displayed.
2. Within 5 seconds, press + or on the remote control to adjust audio delay. The sync timing is displayed.

NOTE: Audio delay can also be adjusted via the JBL One app.

8.2 Factory reset

Restore factory settings by holding the , + , and buttons for over 5 seconds. "RESET" is displayed, and the soundbar will restart automatically upon completion.

8.3 Software update

Connect the soundbar to your home network. Online updates will be performed automatically when available.

• "WAIT": Software updating in progress.
• "DONE": Software updating completed.

9. RE-CONNECT THE SUBWOOFER

The soundbar and subwoofer are paired at the factory. In rare cases, you may need to re-pair them.

To re-enter the subwoofer pairing mode:

1. On the rear panel of the subwoofer, hold the button until it flashes white rapidly.
2. On the soundbar, hold the / BASS button on the remote control for over 3 seconds, then press the button.

The display shows "SUB PAIRING" (ready for pairing) and then "SUB PAIRED" (connected).

NOTE: If pairing is not completed within 3 minutes, the subwoofer will exit pairing mode. To return to pairing mode, press the button.

10. PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

General specification:

• Model: BAR 500MK2 (soundbar unit), BAR 500MK2 SUB (subwoofer unit)
• Sound system: 5.1 channel
• Power supply: 100 - 240 V AC, ~ 50/60 Hz
• Total speaker power output* (Max. @THD 1%): 750 W
• Soundbar output power** (Max. @THD 1%): 450 W
• Subwoofer output power*** (Max. @THD 1%): 300 W
• Soundbar transducer: 5 x (42 x 80) mm racetrack drivers, 4 x 0.75" (20 mm) tweeters
• Subwoofer transducer: 10" (260 mm)
• Networked standby power: <2.0 W
• Operating temperature: 0 °C - 45 °C

HDMI specification

• HDMI video input: 1
• HDMI video output (with Enhanced Audio Return Channel, eARC): 1
• HDMI HDCP version: 2.3
• HDR pass through: HDR10+, Dolby Vision

Audio specification

• Frequency response: 40 Hz - 20 kHz (-6 dB)
• Audio inputs: Optical, Bluetooth, USB (USB playback available in US version only; for other versions, USB is for Service only.)

USB specification (Audio playback is for US version only):

• USB port: Type A
• USB rating: 5 V DC, 0.5 A
• Supporting file formats: mp3
• MP3 codec: MPEG 1 Layer 2/3, MPEG 2 Layer 3, MPEG 2.5 Layer 3
• MP3 sampling rate: 16 - 48 kHz
• MP3 bitrate: 80 - 320 kbps

Wireless specification

• Bluetooth version: v5.3
• Bluetooth profile: A2DP v1.3, AVRCP v1.5
• Bluetooth transmitter frequency range: 2400 MHz - 2483.5 MHz
• Bluetooth transmitter power: <15 dBm (EIRP)
• Wi-Fi network: IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax (2.4 GHz / 5 GHz)
• 2.4G Wi-Fi transmitter frequency range: 2412 - 2472 MHz (2.4 GHz ISM Band, USA 11 Channels, Europe and others 13 Channels)
• 2.4G Wi-Fi transmitter power: < 20 dBm (EIRP)
• 2.4G wireless transmitter frequency range: 2406 - 2474 MHz
• 2.4G wireless transmitter power: <10 dBm (EIRP)
• 5G Wi-Fi transmitter frequency range: 5.15 - 5.35 GHz, 5.470 - 5.725 GHz, 5.725 - 5.825 GHz
• 5G Wi-Fi transmitter power: 5.15 - 5.25 GHz <23 dBm, 5.25 - 5.35 GHz & 5.470 - 5.725 GHz <20 dBm, 5.725 - 5.825 GHz <14 dBm (EIRP)

Note: Band 5.6 - 5.64 GHz will be disabled when shipped to Australia / New Zealand.

Dimensions

• Main soundbar dimensions (W x H x D): 940 x 50.5 x 104 mm / 37" x 2.0" x 4.1"
• Subwoofer dimensions (W x H x D): 325 x 400 x 325 mm / 12.8" x 15.7" x 12.8"
• Soundbar weight: 2.9 kg / 6.5 lbs
• Subwoofer weight: 8.1 kg / 17.8 lbs
• Packaging dimensions (W x H x D): 1020 x 395 x 490 mm / 40.2" x 15.6" x 19.3"
• Packaging weight: 18.0 kg / 39.68 lbs (EMEA/UK/AU/NZ); 15.86 kg / 34.97 lbs (Others)

* RMS @THD 1%: 375 W
** RMS @THD 1%: 225 W
*** RMS @THD 1%: 150 W

11. TROUBLESHOOTING

System

The unit will not turn on.

• Check if the power cord is plugged into power and the soundbar.

The soundbar has no response to button presses.

• Restore the soundbar to factory settings (See "8.2 Factory reset").

Sound

No sound from soundbar

• Make sure that the soundbar is not muted.
• Select the correct audio input source on the remote control.
• Connect the soundbar to your TV or other devices properly.
• Restore the soundbar to factory settings (See "8.2 Factory reset").

Distorted sound or echo

• If you play audio from your TV through the soundbar, make sure that your TV is muted or the built-in TV speaker is disabled.

Audio and video are not synchronized.

• Enable the audio sync function to synchronize audio and video (See "8.1 Sound settings (Audio sync)").

No height sound effects of Dolby Atmos

• If your TV supports HDMI ARC only, make sure that you have connected your digital device to the soundbar through the HDMI / HDMI IN connector on the soundbar (See "5.1.2 TV (HDMI ARC)").
• Enjoy the sound effects of Dolby Atmos when you play movies from the TV / HDMI source. For audio streaming over Bluetooth or casting apps (enabled by Google Cast or AirPlay), Dolby Atmos is not supported.

Bluetooth

A device cannot be connected with the soundbar.

• Check if you have enabled Bluetooth on the device.
• If the soundbar has been paired with another Bluetooth device, reset Bluetooth (See "5.2.3 Connect to another Bluetooth device").
• If your Bluetooth device has ever been paired with the soundbar, reset Bluetooth on the soundbar, unpair the soundbar on the Bluetooth device, and then pair the Bluetooth device with the soundbar again (See "5.2.3 Connect to another Bluetooth device").

Poor audio quality from a connected Bluetooth device

• The Bluetooth reception is poor. Move the source device closer to the soundbar, or remove any obstacle between the source device and the soundbar.

The connected Bluetooth device connects and disconnects constantly.

• The Bluetooth reception is poor. Move the source device closer to the soundbar, or remove any obstacle between the source device and the soundbar.

Wi-Fi

Failed to connect to Wi-Fi

• Make sure that Wi-Fi is turned on.
• Make sure that you have selected the right network and entered the correct password.
• Make sure that your router or modem is turned on and within the range.
• In your router settings, make sure that you have set the security type to WPA2 or auto.
• Make sure that your soundbar is connected to the same wireless LAN as your smartphone or tablet.
• If you have difficulties in setting up Wi-Fi, re-enter the Wi-Fi setup mode by holding the and buttons on the soundbar until "SETUP WIFI" is displayed.

Playback

AirPlay cannot find the soundbar as an AirPlay speaker for music streaming.

• On your Apple device, update the software to the latest version: iOS 13.4 and later, macOS 10.15.4 and later, or tvOS 14.3.
• Make sure that your Apple device has been connected to the same network as the soundbar.
• For a PC running iTunes for Windows, you can stream music from your PC to the soundbar through Bluetooth.

Music playback does not work smoothly when the sound source switches from Bluetooth to Google Cast or AirPlay.

• The quality of audio casting and playback are dependent on the traffic and coverage of the network that connects the soundbar and your casting devices, such as phones, tablets and PCs.

Music playback does not resume when the sound source switches from Bluetooth to TV / HDMI IN, and then back to Bluetooth.

• The music playback in the Bluetooth device stops when the sound source switches from Bluetooth to TV / HDMI IN. When you switch back to the Bluetooth source, start music playback in the Bluetooth device again.

Remote control

The remote control does not work.

• Check if the batteries are drained. If so, replace them with new ones.
• Reduce the distance and angle between the remote control and the main unit.

Failed to complete the TV remote control learning

• Check if you are using an infra-red TV remote control. The IR learning is not supported by a Bluetooth TV remote control.

12. TRADEMARKS

Bluetooth®
The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by HARMAN International Industries, Incorporated is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.

HDMI™
The terms HDMI, HDMI High-Definition Multimedia Interface, HDMI trade dress and the HDMI Logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing Administrator, Inc.

Wi-Fi CERTIFIED™
The Wi-Fi CERTIFIED™ Logo is a registered trademark of Wi-Fi Alliance®.

COMPATIBLE WITH

Dolby Vision Dolby Atmos
Dolby, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, and the double-D symbol are registered trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories. Confidential unpublished works. Copyright © 2012-2024 Dolby Laboratories. All rights reserved.

Spotify
Use your phone, tablet or computer as a remote control for Spotify. Go to spotify.com/connect to learn how. The Spotify Software is subject to third party licenses found here: https://www.spotify.com/connect/third-party-licenses.

roon READY
Being Roon Ready means that HARMAN uses Roon streaming technology, for an incredible user interface, simple setup, rock-solid daily reliability, and the highest levels of audio performance, without compromise.

dts:X virtual
Manufactured under license from DTS, Inc. and/or its affiliates. For patents, see https://xperi.com/dts-patents/. DTS, the DTS logo, DTS:X, the DTS:X logo, Virtual:X, and the DTS Virtual:X logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of DTS, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and/or other countries. DTS, Inc. and/or its affiliates. All rights reserved.

Works with Samsung SmartThings

works with Google Home

Google Cast
Google, Android, Google Home, Google Cast and other marks are trademarks of Google LLC. Google Assistant is not available in certain languages and countries. Availability and performance of certain features, services, and applications are device and network dependent and may not be available in all areas.

Works with Apple AirPlay
Use of the Works with Apple badge means that an accessory has been designed to work specifically with the technology identified in the badge and has been certified by the developer to meet Apple performance standards. Apple, and AirPlay are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries and regions. To use AirPlay with JBL Bar 500MK2, the latest version of iOS, iPadOS, or macOS is recommended.

13. OPEN SOURCE LICENSE NOTICE

This product contains open source software licensed under GPL. For your convenience, the source code and relevant build instruction are also available at https://harman-webpages.s3.amazonaws.com/Harman_One_OS_C_package_license_list.htm.

Please feel free to contact us at:

Harman Deutschland GmbH
ATT: Open Source, Gregor Krapf-Gunther, Parkring 3
85748 Garching bei Munchen, Germany

or OpenSourceSupport@Harman.com if you have additional question regarding the open source software in the product.

© 2025 HARMAN International Industries, Incorporated.
All rights reserved. JBL is a trademark of HARMAN International Industries, Incorporated, registered in the United States and/or other countries. Features, specifications and appearance are subject to change without notice.