JBL Authentics 500 Quick Start Guide

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the JBL Authentics speaker. This manual provides step-by-step instructions for setup and getting started. To maximize product features and support, it is recommended to update the product software via the Internet. Designs and specifications are subject to change without notice. For questions regarding the speaker, installation, or operation, contact a retailer or customer service representative, or visit www.jbl.com.

JBL One App

The JBL One app allows users to:

• Easily connect the speaker to a Wi-Fi network.
• Set up voice assistants.
• Connect music streaming services (subscription may be needed).
• Personalize audio settings.
• Manage and control devices.
• Enjoy Dolby Atmos® Music from supported music streaming services (Authentics 500 only).
• Access additional features.

The JBL One app is available on Google Play and the App Store.

Voice Control

With Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa available simultaneously, users can play music, get answers, manage everyday tasks, and control smart home devices hands-free using voice commands. Both assistants can be accessed simultaneously on this device.

What's in the Box

Carefully unpack the box and ensure all parts are included. If any part is damaged or missing, do not use it and contact a retailer or customer service representative.

Included Items:

• JBL Authentics 500 Speaker
• Power cord (quantity and plug type vary by regions)

Product Overview

Front Panel & Top Panel Controls and Indicators

• Bluetooth Button (Ⓘ): Press to enter Bluetooth pairing mode.
• Bluetooth Status Indicator:
  ● Fast flashing (white): Bluetooth pairing
  ● Solid (white): Bluetooth connected
  ● Off: Bluetooth not connected
• Playback Controls (▶ ⏸ ⏭ ⏮): Used for streaming music from JBL One app, Chromecast built-in™, AirPlay, Alexa Multi-Room Music, Alexa Cast, or Bluetooth.
  ▶ Press once for play/pause.
  ⏭ Press twice to skip to the next track.
  ⏮ Press three times to skip to the previous track.
• Rotary Volume Controls: Rotate clockwise or counter-clockwise to increase or decrease the volume.
• Moment Button (♡): Press to access personalized music playlists and speaker settings in the JBL One app.
• Voice Assistant Status LED:
  ● Solid (white): Activated and Listening (Google Assistant)
  ● Fast pulsing (white): Thinking (Google Assistant)
  ● Fast pulsing (white): Responding (Google Assistant)
  ● Solid (red): Microphone Off (Google Assistant)
  ● Solid loop (cyan and blue): Activated and Listening (Amazon Alexa)
  ● Fast loop (cyan and blue): Thinking (Amazon Alexa)
  ● Alternating loop (cyan and blue): Responding (Amazon Alexa)
  ● Solid (red): Microphone Off (Amazon Alexa)
• Tone Controls (Treble, Bass): Rotate clockwise or counter-clockwise to increase or decrease treble and bass levels.
• System Status Indicator:
  ● Regular pulsing (white): System startup
  ● Fast pulsing (white): Software updating in progress
  ● Solid (amber): Restoring factory settings
• Network Connection Indicator:
  ● Slow pulsing (white): Entering Wi-Fi setup mode, or network disconnected
  ● Solid (green): Speaker discovered by the JBL One app
  ● Solid (white): Network connected
  ● Solid (yellow): Weak Wi-Fi connection
• Voice Assistant Notifications:
  ● Timer Ringing (Slow pulsing white): Cyan and blue for 1 hour; turns off when timer deactivated.
  ● Alarm Ringing (Slow pulsing white): Cyan and blue for 1 hour; turns off when alarm deactivated.
  ● Reminder (Solid white for about 10 minutes): Cyan and blue twice, followed by voice response.
  ● Queued Notifications (Solid white for about 10 minutes): Slow pulsing (yellow).
  ● Do Not Disturb Mode Enabled (N/A): Pulses once (purple).
  Note: To dismiss Alexa's alarm, timer, or other notifications, press the Moment button (♡) on the speaker.
• Microphones: For voice control and automatic self-tuning.

Back Panel Connections

• Power Port: Connect to power using the supplied power cord.
• USB Port: Type C connector for software updates (technical personnel only) or MP3 file playback (US version only).
• AUX Port: Connect to the audio output of an external device via a 3.5 mm audio cable.
• Ethernet Port: Connect to a home network via an Ethernet cable.
• Voice Assistant Microphone Slider: Move the slider to turn the microphone on or off.

Power On

Connect to Power

Connect the speaker to power using the supplied power cord. The speaker automatically switches on and enters Wi-Fi setup mode.

Auto Standby

If the speaker is inactive for more than 10 minutes, it automatically switches to standby mode.

Auto Wakeup

In standby mode, the speaker automatically wakes up when:

• Any button on the speaker is pressed.
• The speaker is connected to a home network, and setup/playback is controlled via the JBL One app.
• The speaker is connected to a home network and woken up by an enabled voice assistant.
• The speaker is connected to a home network, and audio is streamed via supported streaming services enabled in the JBL One app.
• An audio cable is inserted, and music playback starts from the external device.

Connect

Connect to Your Home Network

Connect the speaker to your network using Wi-Fi or an Ethernet cable. Registering Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa enables hands-free help and smart home device control. This also activates Chromecast built-in, Alexa Multi-Room Music, and Alexa Cast. Or, with the JBL One app and supported streaming services (AirPlay and Spotify Connect), users can stream music from smartphones or tablets.

Wi-Fi Connection

1. Connect the speaker to power. The speaker enters Wi-Fi setup mode (slow pulsing white).
2. Connect an Android™ or iOS device to the home Wi-Fi network. Download the JBL One app.
3. Launch the JBL One app and follow instructions to complete setup. The speaker will be discovered (solid green) and then connected to the home network (solid white). Users can then stream music via the JBL One app or enabled streaming services.

Note: Ensure the speaker is on the same Wi-Fi network as the Android or iOS device. If the speaker is not discovered, hold the Moment button (♡) and Bluetooth button (Ⓘ) together for more than 10 seconds to re-enter Wi-Fi setup mode. To enable Chromecast built-in, Alexa Multi-Room Music, and Alexa Cast, register Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa on their respective apps.

Wired Connection (Optional)

1. Use an Ethernet cable (not supplied) to connect the speaker to the home network.
2. On an Android or iOS device, download and launch the JBL One app for music streaming and control.

Notes: On an Android or iOS device, the speaker can be renamed in the JBL One app. On an iOS device, the speaker can be added to the Apple Home app for management with other AirPlay 2-compatible speakers. AirPlay streaming can be initiated from an AirPlay-compatible app on an iOS device. Availability of online music streaming services varies by country. Some features may require subscriptions or services not available in all countries.

Connect to Your Bluetooth Device

Connect the speaker with a Bluetooth device such as a smartphone, tablet, or laptop.

Connect a Bluetooth Device

1. Press the Bluetooth button (Ⓘ) to select Bluetooth source. The speaker enters Bluetooth pairing mode (fast flashing white).
2. On the Bluetooth device, enable Bluetooth and search for "JBL Authentics 200" or "JBL Authentics 500" within three minutes. A solid white light indicates a successful connection.

Reconnect the Last Paired Device

The Bluetooth device remains paired when the speaker enters standby mode. The speaker automatically reconnects to the last active device when switching back to the Bluetooth source.

Connect to Another Bluetooth Device

1. In the Bluetooth source, press the Bluetooth button (Ⓘ). The speaker enters Bluetooth pairing mode.
2. Follow Step 2 under "Connect a Bluetooth Device".

Notes: The speaker supports multi-point connection, allowing a second Bluetooth device to be paired without disconnecting the first. The Bluetooth connection will be lost if the distance between the speaker and Bluetooth device exceeds 10 meters (33 ft). Electronic devices generating electromagnetic waves (e.g., microwaves, wireless LAN devices) should be kept away from the speaker to avoid radio interference. Voice commands are not supported in Bluetooth mode.

Connect to an External Audio Device

Connect the speaker to an external audio device using a 3.5mm audio cable (sold separately). One end connects to the AUX socket on the speaker, and the other to the 3.5 mm audio output connector on the audio device.

Note: After connecting the audio cable, ensure no music plays through Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to initiate playback via the audio cable.

Voice Assistants

Set Up Your Voice Assistants

Using the JBL One app on Android or iOS devices, set up Google Assistant, Alexa, or both.

• Follow the prompts in the JBL One app to set up voice assistants immediately after connecting the speaker to the home network.
• If the speaker is already connected but voice assistant setup is incomplete, access "Voice assistants" in the JBL One app to set up.

Notes: For more information, visit assistant.google.com or the Amazon Alexa app. If Alexa or Google Assistant is set up but the microphone is off, voice assistants will not respond until the microphone is turned on again.

Talk to Your Voice Assistants

With simultaneous voice assistants, users can ask Google Assistant or Alexa to play music, get answers, manage everyday tasks, and control smart home devices using their voice.

1. Ensure the speaker is properly connected to the home network and the microphone is turned on.
2. Say "Hey Google" or "Alexa" to begin. Examples: "Hey Google, play some music", "Alexa, turn up the volume", "Alexa, set a timer for 15 minutes", "Hey Google, stop".
3. To suspend voice assistant use, turn the microphone off. To resume, turn the microphone on.

Play

Access Presets with the Moment Button (♡)

1. In the JBL One app, personalize the Moment feature.
2. On the speaker, press the Moment button (♡) to access the personalized playlist and speaker settings.

Play Over Your Home Network

Before starting, ensure the Android or iOS device and speakers are connected to the same Wi-Fi network for music service streaming and control.

Play Through the JBL One App

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

1. On an Android or iOS device, launch the JBL One app, browse available music streaming services, select music, and start streaming to the connected speaker.

Play with Chromecast Built-in

Stream audio on an Android or iOS device to the speaker using Chromecast built-in.

1. On an Android or iOS device, launch the JBL One app and confirm Chromecast built-in is enabled.
2. On a Chromecast-enabled app, play music, tap the cast icon (▣) and select the connected speaker.

Play Through AirPlay

Stream audio on an iOS device to the speaker via AirPlay.

1. On an iOS device, enter the Control Center (swipe down from upper right). Tap the AirPlay icon (▶) to select the connected speaker, then start audio streaming from an app.

Play Through Alexa Cast

With the speaker connected to Alexa Cast, stream music from the Amazon Music library to the speaker.

1. On an Android or iOS device, launch the JBL One app and confirm Amazon Alexa is enabled.
2. Launch the Amazon Alexa app to start music playback. Open the Amazon Music app to access the Amazon Music library. Ensure music playback starts from the same Alexa account enabled in the JBL One app.

Alexa MRM: Multi-room Music

1. Confirm Amazon Alexa is enabled on the speaker via the JBL One app.
2. Through the Amazon Alexa app, create a Multi-room Music group for the speaker.

Note: To create a multi-room music group in the Amazon Alexa app, ensure all devices are connected to the same home network and use the same Alexa login account.

Play from the Bluetooth Source

Stream audio from a Bluetooth device to the speaker.

1. Ensure the speaker is properly connected to the Bluetooth device.
2. Press the Bluetooth button (Ⓘ) to select the Bluetooth source.
3. Start audio playback on the Bluetooth device. Alternatively, press the Play button (▶) on the speaker to control playback.

Control Music Playback

• Press the Play/Pause button (▶) once to play or pause.
• Press the Skip Forward button (⏭) twice to skip to the next track.
• Press the Skip Backward button (⏮) three times to skip to the previous track.
• Rotate the volume knob clockwise or counterclockwise to increase or decrease the volume.

Note: Music control is unavailable in AUX mode.

Play from the AUX Source

Listen to music playback on an external audio device via a 3.5 mm audio cable.

1. Ensure the speaker is properly connected to the external audio device.
2. Confirm music streaming over Bluetooth and the home network is paused on the speaker.
3. Start audio playback on the external audio device.
4. Adjust the volume on the external audio device or the speaker.

Note: If there is no audio output from the external audio device, try disconnecting and reconnecting the audio cable.

Settings

Sound Settings

Tone Controls

Adjust Equalizer (EQ) settings to customize sound using the JBL One app or the knobs on the speaker.

• On the speaker: Adjust TREBLE and BASS knobs.
• Through the app: Access Equalizer settings in the JBL One app.

Note: Sound settings in the app and on the speaker are synchronized.

Self-tuning

The speaker automatically self-tunes to optimize sound for the listening environment each time it connects to power and starts music playback. Self-tuning takes three minutes. If music playback stops before completion, self-tuning resumes when playback restarts.

Note: Automatic self-tuning is disabled when the microphone is turned off.

Software Upgrade

When the speaker is connected to the Internet via the home network, its software automatically updates to the latest version.

Restore Factory Settings

On the speaker, hold the Moment button (♡) and Bluetooth button (Ⓘ) together for more than 10 seconds to restore default settings. The speaker will automatically power off and restart upon completion.

Technical Specifications

Troubleshooting

Do not attempt to repair the product yourself. For problems, check the following points before requesting services. For more troubleshooting tips, visit the support pages at product.jbl.com/AUTHENTICS-200.html or product.jbl.com/AUTHENTICS-500.html.

System Issues

• Unit will not turn on: Check if the power cord is plugged into power and the speaker.
• Speaker has no response to button presses: Disconnect and reconnect the power cable.

Bluetooth Issues

• Device cannot be connected: Check if Bluetooth is enabled on the device. If the speaker is paired with another Bluetooth device, re-enter Bluetooth pairing mode.
• Poor audio quality: Bluetooth reception may be poor. Move the source device closer to the speaker, or remove obstacles.

Wi-Fi Issues

• Failed to connect to Wi-Fi: Ensure Wi-Fi is turned on, the correct network is selected, and the correct password is entered. Verify the router/modem is on and within range. In router settings, ensure security type is WPA2 or auto. Ensure the speaker is on the same wireless LAN as the smartphone/tablet. If difficulties persist, hold the Moment button (♡) and Bluetooth button (Ⓘ) together for more than 10 seconds until the status indicator slowly pulses white.

Voice Assistant Issues

• No response to voice commands: Check if the speaker is connected to the home network. Check if voice control is started with the correct wake word. Ambient conditions (noisy place, strong winds, echoes) may prevent detection; avoid such placements. Ensure built-in microphones are not turned off or covered. Speak closer to the microphones.

Playback Issues

• AirPlay cannot find speaker: On Apple devices, update software to iOS 13.4+, macOS 10.15.4+, or tvOS 14.3+. Ensure Apple device is connected to the same network as the speaker. For PC iTunes for Windows, stream via Bluetooth.
• Music playback not smooth when switching sources: Audio casting and playback quality depend on network traffic and coverage.
• Speaker "Offline" in Amazon Alexa app or Alexa MRM problems: Restore speaker to factory settings by holding Moment button (♡) and Bluetooth button (Ⓘ) together for more than 10 seconds.
• No music playback on Audio In source when switching from Bluetooth to Audio In: Disconnect and reconnect the 3.5mm audio cable.
• No height sound effects of Dolby Atmos: Enjoy Dolby Atmos sound effects during Wi-Fi streaming. Dolby Atmos is not supported for audio streaming over Bluetooth. Dolby Atmos Music is not supported on Authentics 200.

Power Consumption Information

This equipment complies with European Commission Regulation (EC) No 1275/2008 and (EU) No 801/2013.

• Off: N/A
• Standby (all wireless connections deactivated): < 0.5 W
• Networked standby for the speaker: < 2.0 W

The power management function automatically switches the equipment into:

Wireless Connections Activation/Deactivation

To activate:

• Activate after every power cycle.
• Switch into wireless mode (Bluetooth, Chromecast built-in™, AirPlay 2 casting audio, Alexa Multi-Room Music & etc).

To deactivate:

• Hold the Moment button (♡) for more than 10 seconds, then press the Bluetooth button (Ⓘ).

Regulatory Compliance

FCC/IC Radiation Exposure Statement

This equipment complies with FCC/IC RSS-102 radiation exposure limits for an uncontrolled environment. It should be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 20cm between the radiator and the user's body.

CAN ICES-003 (B) / NMB-003 (B)

Warning: Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with Class B digital device limits per Part 15 of FCC Rules. These limits provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in residential installations. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy. If not installed and used according to instructions, it may cause harmful interference to radio communications. There is no guarantee interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment causes harmful interference to radio or television reception, users are encouraged to try to correct interference by reorienting/relocating the receiving antenna, increasing separation, connecting equipment to a different circuit outlet, or consulting a dealer/radio/TV technician.

IC Caution

Users should be advised that:

• Devices operating in the 5150 – 5250 MHz band are for indoor use only to reduce potential for harmful interference to co-channel mobile satellite systems.
• Maximum antenna gain permitted for devices in 5250 - 5350 MHz and 5470 - 5725 MHz bands must comply with the e.i.r.p. limit.
• Maximum antenna gain permitted for devices in the 5725 - 5825 MHz band must comply with the e.i.r.p. limits for point-to-point and non point-to-point operation as appropriate.
• High-power radars are allocated as primary users (priority users) of the 5250 - 5350 MHz and 5650 - 5850 MHz bands, and these radars could cause interference and/or damage to LE-LAN devices.

High power radars are allocated as primary users of the 5.25 to 5.35 GHz and 5.65 to 5.85 GHz bands. These radar stations can cause interference with and/or damage this device. No configuration controls are provided for this wireless equipment allowing any change in the frequency of operations outside the FCC grant of authorization for US operation according to Part 15.407 of the FCC rules.

Use Restriction

This device is restricted to indoor use when operating in the 5150 to 5350 MHz frequency range in the following countries:

• Belgium (BE), Greece (EL), Lithuania (LT), Portugal (PT), Bulgaria (BG), Spain (ES), Luxembourg (LU), Romania (RO), Czech Republic (CZ), France (FR), Hungary (HU), Slovenia (SI), Denmark (DK), Croatia (HR), Malta (MT), Slovakia (SK), Germany (DE), Italy (IT), Netherlands (NL), Finland (FI), Estonia (EE), Cyprus (CY), Austria (AT), Sweden (SE), Ireland (IE), Latvia (LV), Poland (PL), United Kingdom (UK) and Northern Ireland (UK (NI)).

Anatel Compliance (Brazil)

This product is approved by Anatel, in accordance with regulated procedures for conformity assessment of telecommunications products, and meets applicable technical requirements. For more information, consult the Anatel website – www.anatel.gov.br. This equipment is not entitled to protection against harmful interference and may not cause interference in duly authorized systems.

Attention: According to Brazilian law nº 11.291, prolonged exposure to noise levels above 85dB can cause damage to the auditory system.

Recycling Information (France)

This appliance, its accessories, and cords are recyclable. Deposit them at collection points: in stores or at waste collection centers. Collection points available at www.quefairedemesdechets.fr.

Trademarks

• Bluetooth®: The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and used under license by HARMAN International Industries.
• Wi-Fi CERTIFIED 6™: Wi-Fi CERTIFIED 6™ and the Wi-Fi CERTIFIED 6™ Logo are trademarks of Wi-Fi Alliance®.
• Hey Google: Google, Android, Google Play, and Chromecast built-in are trademarks of Google LLC. Google Assistant availability and performance vary by language and country.
• Chromecast built-in: Trademark of Google LLC.
• Alexa built-in: Amazon, Alexa, and all related marks are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. Alexa is not available in all languages and countries.
• Works with Apple AirPlay: Use of the Works with Apple badge signifies an accessory designed to work specifically with Apple technology and certified to meet Apple performance standards. Apple and AirPlay are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. iOS 13.4 or later is required to control this AirPlay 2-enabled speaker.
• Spotify: Use a phone, tablet, or computer as a remote control for Spotify. Visit spotify.com/connect to learn more. Spotify Software is subject to third-party licenses found at spotify.com/connect/third-party-licenses.
• Dolby Atmos: Dolby, Dolby Atmos, and the double-D symbol are registered trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories. Copyright © 2012–2021 Dolby Laboratories. All rights reserved.

Open Source License Notice

This product contains open source software licensed under GPL. For convenience, the source code and relevant build instruction are available at harman-webpages.s3.amazonaws.com/Harman_One_OS_A_package_license_list.htm. For additional questions regarding the open source software, contact Harman Deutschland GmbH, ATT: Open Source, Gregor Krapf-Gunther, Parkring 3, 85748 Garching bei Munchen, Germany, or OpenSourceSupport@Harman.com.