JBL BAR 500MK2 User Manual
Your guide to immersive 3D audio.
Important Safety Instructions
Verify Mains Voltage Before Use: The JBL BAR 500MK2 speaker is designed for 100-240 V AC, 50/60 Hz current. Connecting to a line voltage other than that specified for your product may 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 the mains voltage in your area, contact your dealer or a customer service representative before plugging the unit into a wall outlet.
Do Not Use an Extension Cord: To avoid safety risks, use only the power cord supplied with your unit. We do not recommend using extension cords with this product. As with all electrical appliances, do not run power cords under carpets or carpeting, and do not place heavy objects on them. Damaged power cords must be replaced immediately with a cord that meets factory specifications, at an authorized service center.
Handle the Power Cord with Care: To disconnect the power cord from a mains socket, always pull the plug, never the cable. If you do not intend to use your speaker for a long period, unplug the power cord from the mains socket.
Do Not Open the Enclosure: This product contains no user-serviceable components. Opening the enclosure may present an electric shock hazard, and any modification to the product will void your warranty. If water accidentally enters the unit, unplug it immediately from the mains power supply and consult an authorized service center.
1. Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the JBL BAR 500MK2, designed to bring an extraordinary 3D sound experience to your home entertainment system. We invite you to take a few minutes to read this manual, which describes the product and includes step-by-step installation and setup instructions.
To make the most of the product's features and support, you may need to update its software via the Internet in the future. Consult the software update section of this manual to verify that your product has the latest software version.
Models and technical specifications are subject to change without notice. For any questions about the soundbar, its installation, or operation, please contact your dealer or a customer service representative, or visit our website: www.jbl.com.
Application JBL One
With the JBL One app, you can:
- Configure the product easily.
- Connect to music streaming services.
- Discover new music through integrated music services.
- Access software updates when available.
- Personalize your audio settings.
- Access additional features.
You can find more information in "5.3 Connecting to Your Home Network" and "7.5 Playback via Your Home Network".
Notes:
- A subscription may be required and is not provided by the JBL One app.
- The app screens shown in this manual may vary due to software updates. Always follow the app's instructions.
2. Box Contents
Unpack the box contents carefully and verify that the following items are included. If any item is damaged or missing, do not use it and contact your retailer or a customer service representative.
- Soundbar
- Subwoofer
- Remote Control (with 2 AAA batteries)
- Power Cord*
- HDMI Cable (1.2 m / 3.9 ft.)
- Wall Mounting Kit
- Product Information and Wall Mounting Template
* The number of power cords and plug types vary by region.
3. Product Overview
3.1 Soundbar
3.1.1 Front and Top Panel
Indicators (System):
- Steady White: System startup
- Pulsing White: Software update in progress
- Solid Amber: Factory reset in progress
Indicators (Network Connection):
- Slow Pulsing White: Wi-Fi or network disconnected
- Steady White: Network connected
- Steady Yellow: Weak Wi-Fi connection
Buttons:
- Power: Turns the unit on/off.
- +/- (Volume): Increases or decreases volume. Press both buttons simultaneously to mute/unmute. Press and hold both buttons for over 10 seconds to enter Wi-Fi setup.
- Microphone: For audio calibration.
- Source: Turns the unit on. Selects an audio source: TV (default), Bluetooth, or HDMI IN. Press and hold for over 3 seconds to enter Bluetooth pairing.
- Status Display: Shows device status.
3.1.2 Rear Panel
Diagrams show ports for different regions (Americas vs. Others).
- 1. / POWER: Connect the power cord.
- 2. USB: For software updates (service use only). For US versions, can be used for MP3 playback from a USB storage device.
- 3. HDMI / HDMI IN: Connect the HDMI output from your digital device.
- 4. TV Connectors:
- HDMI / HDMI OUT: Connect to your TV's HDMI ARC/eARC input.
- OPTICAL / OPTICAL: Connect your TV's or digital device's optical output.
3.2 Subwoofer
Connection Indicator:
- Steady White: Connected to soundbar
- Fast Flashing White: Pairing mode
- Regular Flashing White: Reconnection mode
- Solid Amber: Standby mode
Power Connector: Connect the power cord.
3.3 Remote Control
Diagrams show remote buttons for different regions.
- 1. Power: Turns the unit on or off.
- 2. +/-: Adjusts volume. Press and hold for continuous volume adjustment.
- 3. / (Mute): Mutes/unmutes audio.
- 4. Sound Effect Buttons: Activates or deactivates virtual Dolby Atmos effects (on by default).
- 5. BASS / CALIBR: Selects bass level (LVL1-LVL5, default LVL3). Starts sound calibration.
- 6. Moment: Accesses your personalized music playlist and speaker settings via the JBL One app.
- 7. Source Selectors:
- TV: Selects TV source.
- Bluetooth: Selects Bluetooth source. Press and hold for 3 seconds for Bluetooth pairing.
- HDMI: Selects HDMI IN source.
4. Placement
4.1 Tabletop Placement
Place the product on a flat, stable surface. Recommended distances are shown in the diagram:
Diagram description: Shows soundbar placed in front of a TV, with recommended distances for listening position (>4m/13ft), distance from TV (>10cm/4"), and distance from side walls (1-6m/3-20ft). Subwoofer placement is also indicated.
Notes:
- Ensure the power cord is properly connected.
- Do not place any objects on the product.
4.2 Wall Mounting
Diagrams show mounting bracket installation.
Preparation:
- Apply the provided wall mounting template to the wall using adhesive tape.
- Use a pen tip to mark screw locations. Remove the template.
- Drill 4 mm / 0.16" holes at the marked locations.
Installation:
- Install the bracket for the wall mounting support.
- Using the screw, attach the wall mounting bracket below the soundbar.
- Mount the soundbar.
Notes:
- Ensure the wall can support the soundbar's weight.
- Mounting must be done on a vertical wall only.
- Avoid locations with high temperature or humidity.
- Before wall mounting, ensure cables are properly connected between the soundbar and external devices.
- Before wall mounting, verify the soundbar is unplugged to avoid electric shock.
5. Connection
5.1 Connecting to Your TV and Digital Devices
For audio playback, connect the soundbar to your TV using the provided HDMI cable or an optical cable (sold separately). HDMI connection supports digital audio and video over a single connection and is the preferred option.
Notes:
- If both HDMI and optical cables are connected, HDMI has priority.
- Full compatibility with all HDMI-CEC devices is not guaranteed.
- HDMI cable (for digital device connection) and optical cable are sold separately.
5.1.1 TV (HDMI eARC)
Recommended for the best Dolby Atmos experience.
Diagram: Shows soundbar connected to TV's HDMI eARC port. TV connected to a digital device via HDMI.
- Connect the soundbar to your TV's HDMI IN (eARC) port using the provided HDMI cable.
- On your TV, ensure HDMI-CEC and HDMI eARC are enabled. Refer to your TV's manual for details.
- Use an HDMI cable (V2.0 or later) to connect your TV to a digital device (e.g., streaming device, set-top box, DVD/Blu-ray player, game console).
- On your digital device, ensure HDMI-CEC is enabled. Refer to its manual for details.
- On your TV and digital device, select "Bitstream" or "Raw Data" in audio output settings for the best Dolby Atmos experience.
Notes:
- To play audio from a digital device connected to your TV, select the TV source (See "7.2 Playback from TV Source").
- Virtual Dolby Atmos can enhance legacy audio channels for an immersive 3D Atmos experience.
5.1.2 TV (HDMI ARC)
Diagram: Shows soundbar connected to TV's HDMI ARC port.
- Connect the soundbar to your TV's HDMI IN (ARC) port with the provided HDMI cable.
- On your TV, ensure HDMI-CEC and HDMI ARC are enabled. Refer to your TV's manual for details.
- Use an HDMI cable (V2.0 or later) to connect the soundbar to your digital device (e.g., set-top box, DVD/Blu-ray player, game console).
- On your digital device, ensure HDMI-CEC is enabled. Refer to its manual for details.
- On your digital device, select "Bitstream" or "Raw Data" in audio output settings for the best Dolby Atmos experience.
Notes:
- To play audio from a digital device connected to the soundbar, select the HDMI IN source (See "7.3 Playback from HDMI IN Source").
- If your TV does not support HDMI eARC, connect your digital device directly to the soundbar's HDMI IN port instead of your TV. Otherwise, Dolby Atmos information may not pass through.
5.1.3 OPTICAL
Diagram: Shows soundbar connected to TV via Optical cable.
- Connect the soundbar to your TV using an optical cable.
- Use an HDMI cable (V2.0 or later) to connect your TV to a digital device (e.g., streaming device, set-top box, DVD/Blu-ray player, game console).
Note:
- To play audio via the optical cable, select the TV source (See "7.2 Playback from TV Source").
5.2 Connecting to Your Bluetooth Device
To use Bluetooth, connect the soundbar to your Bluetooth device (smartphone, tablet, or laptop).
Diagram: Shows Bluetooth range and device connection.
5.2.1 Connecting a Bluetooth Device
- To select the Bluetooth source, press the button on the soundbar or on the remote control. "BT PAIRING" will be displayed.
- On your Bluetooth device, enable Bluetooth and search for "JBL BAR 500MK2" within three minutes. "BT CONNECTED" will be displayed upon successful connection, followed by a confirmation tone.
5.2.2 Reconnecting the Last Paired Device
Your Bluetooth device is remembered when the soundbar is in standby. The soundbar will automatically reconnect to the last paired device when you select the Bluetooth source again.
5.2.3 Connecting Another Bluetooth Device
Diagram: Shows steps for pairing another device, including using the JBL One app for Wi-Fi setup.
- On the Bluetooth source, press and hold the button on the soundbar or remote until "BT PAIRING" is displayed. The soundbar enters Bluetooth pairing mode.
- Follow step 2 of "5.2.1 Connecting a Bluetooth Device".
- If the device was previously paired, first "forget" "JBL BAR 500MK2" on the device.
Notes:
- Bluetooth connection will be lost if the distance between the soundbar and Bluetooth device exceeds 10 m (33 ft).
- Electronic devices can cause radio interference. Keep devices that produce electromagnetic waves (e.g., microwaves, wireless network devices) away from the soundbar.
5.3 Connecting to Your Home Network
The JBL One app and supported streaming services (Google Cast, AirPlay, Spotify Connect) allow you to stream audio to the speaker from smartphones or tablets.
- Steady White Indicator: The soundbar is connected to your home network.
- You can stream music from the JBL One app or enabled streaming services (See "7.5 Playback via Your Home Network").
Notes:
- If your soundbar is not detected by the JBL One app, press and hold the and + buttons simultaneously for over 10 seconds to recall Wi-Fi setup.
- On your Android or iOS device, you can rename the soundbar in the JBL One app.
- On iOS devices, add the soundbar to the Apple Home app to manage it with other AirPlay-compatible speakers.
- On iOS, if the soundbar is added to your home Wi-Fi network, you can initiate AirPlay streaming from an AirPlay-compatible app (See "7.5.2 Play via AirPlay").
- Online music streaming service availability varies by country.
- Some features require subscriptions or services not available in all countries.
Diagram: Shows Wi-Fi setup process with JBL One app.
Wi-Fi Setup:
- On the soundbar, enter Wi-Fi setup mode: Press any button to turn it on (See "7.1 Power On/Auto Standby/Auto Wake"). If the soundbar has not been connected to a network, the display will show "HELLO" then "SETUP WIFI".
- Connect your Android or iOS device to your home Wi-Fi network. Download the JBL One app.
- Launch the JBL One app. Follow the app's instructions to complete Wi-Fi setup.
6. Installation
6.1 Power Connection
Diagram: Shows power connection to soundbar and subwoofer.
- Press the / CALIBR button on the remote to start calibration. "CALIBRATION" will appear on the soundbar.
- When "PRESS AGAIN TO CONFIRM" appears, press the / CALIBR button again.
Steps:
- Connect the soundbar to the mains using the provided power cord. The soundbar display will show "LOAD" then "HELLO".
- Connect the subwoofer to the mains using the provided power cord. The subwoofer will automatically connect to the soundbar. "Connected" will be displayed with a steady white light.
Notes:
- Use only the provided power cord.
- Before connecting power, ensure all other connections are made (See "5.1 Connecting to Your TV and Digital Devices").
6.2 3D Surround Sound
6.2.1 Audio Calibration
Optimize your 3D surround sound experience for your specific listening environment.
Diagram: Shows a person listening to the soundbar, with sound waves.
Calibration Process:
- A countdown from 5 to 1 will begin. You will hear a calibration tone, and audio calibration will start.
- "CALIBRATING" indicates calibration is in progress.
- "DONE" indicates calibration is complete.
Notes:
- During audio calibration, all remote buttons are disabled except .
- Ambient sound is recorded during calibration. Press and hold / CALIBR for over 10 seconds, then press to play the recorded audio (US version only).
6.2.2 Dolby Atmos
Virtual Dolby Atmos provides height sound effects when watching movies via the TV / HDMI IN source.
Diagram: Shows soundbar projecting sound upwards and forwards.
- Connect your Blu-ray player or streaming device and play content as described in "5.1 Connecting to Your TV and Digital Devices".
- Press the button on the remote to activate or deactivate height sound effects (default: activated).
Notes:
- If you prefer no height sound effects, disable Dolby Atmos sound effects.
- Dolby Atmos sound effects apply only to Dolby Atmos audio content.
6.2.3 Bass Adjustment
You can adjust bass levels to your preference.
Diagram: Shows remote buttons for bass level adjustment.
- Press the / button on the remote to cycle through bass levels. "LVL1" to "LVL5" will be displayed (default: "LVL3").
7. Playback
7.1 Power On/Auto Standby/Auto Wake
Diagram: Shows soundbar and subwoofer with "HELLO" display.
7.1.1 Power On
- Press any button on the soundbar or the remote control to turn it on. The subwoofer will automatically reconnect, and "Connected" will be displayed with a steady white light.
7.1.2 Auto Standby
If the soundbar is inactive for over 10 minutes, it will automatically enter standby mode. "STDBY" will be displayed. When you turn the soundbar back on, it will resume the last selected source. The subwoofer will also enter standby and show a solid amber light.
7.1.3 Auto Wake
In standby mode, the soundbar will automatically wake up when:
- It is connected to your TV via HDMI ARC/eARC and the TV is turned on.
- It is connected to your TV and a digital device (e.g., set-top box, DVD/Blu-ray player, game console) via HDMI, and the digital device is turned on.
- It is connected to your home network and streaming music via music streaming services.
7.2 Playback from TV Source
With the soundbar connected, you can enjoy TV audio through the soundbar.
Diagram: Shows TV connected to soundbar via HDMI ARC/Optical.
- Ensure your TV is set up for external speakers and internal speakers are disabled. Refer to your TV's manual for details.
- Verify the soundbar is correctly connected to your TV (See "5.1 Connecting to Your TV and Digital Devices").
- To select the TV source, press the button on the soundbar or the "TV" button on the remote. "TV" will be displayed. The TV source is selected by default in factory settings.
Note:
- If the soundbar is connected to your TV via both HDMI and optical cables, the HDMI cable is selected as the TV source.
7.2.1 TV Remote Control Setup
To use your TV remote for the soundbar, ensure your TV supports HDMI-CEC. If not, follow the "IR Remote Control Learning" steps.
HDMI-CEC:
If your TV supports HDMI-CEC, enable the functions as per your TV's manual. You can control volume (+/-), mute/unmute, and power on/standby of the soundbar using your TV remote.
IR Remote Control Learning:
This feature allows you to program the soundbar to accept IR commands from your TV remote for simple controls.
- On the soundbar, press and hold the and buttons until "LEARNING" is displayed. The soundbar enters TV remote learning mode.
- Point your TV remote at the soundbar. Follow on-screen instructions to operate TV remote buttons:
- When "POWER", "VOL+", "VOL-", or "MUTE" is displayed, press the corresponding button on your TV remote. "DONE" indicates commands are learned. The soundbar returns to the last selected source.
- To stop and exit learning mode, press and on the soundbar until "EXIT LEARNING" is displayed. Learned functions will be ignored.
Note:
- The soundbar automatically exits learning mode if no action is taken for 30 seconds. Learned functions are ignored.
7.3 Playback from HDMI IN Source
With the soundbar connected as shown, your digital device can play video on your TV and audio through the soundbar.
Diagram: Shows digital device connected to soundbar's HDMI IN, and soundbar connected to TV's HDMI OUT.
- Turn on your digital device. Your TV and soundbar will wake from standby, and the input source will be selected automatically.
- To select the HDMI IN source on the soundbar, press the button on the soundbar or the "HDMI" button on the remote.
Note:
- Full compatibility with all HDMI-CEC devices is not guaranteed.
7.4 Playback from Bluetooth Source
Stream audio from your Bluetooth device to the soundbar.
Diagram: Shows Bluetooth range and playback.
- To select the Bluetooth source, press the button on the soundbar or on the remote control.
- Verify the soundbar is correctly connected to your Bluetooth device (See "5.2 Connecting to Your Bluetooth Device").
- Start audio playback on your Bluetooth device.
- Adjust the volume on the soundbar via the remote or your Bluetooth device.
7.5 Playback via Your Home Network
Notes:
- The soundbar supports audio streaming but not video streaming.
- During Wi-Fi music streaming, playback on the currently connected device will pause when you start music playback on a second connected device.
Before you start:
- Your Android or iOS device must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your soundbar (See "5.3 Connecting to Your Home Network").
7.5.1 Play with Google Cast
With Google Cast, stream audio from your Android or iOS device to the soundbar.
Diagrams: Shows steps for enabling Google Cast in JBL One app and selecting the soundbar for casting.
- On your Android or iOS device: Launch the JBL One app, browse available music streaming services, select music, and start streaming to the connected soundbar.
- In a Google Cast-compatible app, play music, tap the cast icon , and select the connected soundbar.
Note:
- A subscription may be required and is not provided by the JBL One app.
Access your presets with the (Moment) button:
- In the JBL One app: Personalize the (Moment) function.
- On the soundbar: Press the button on the remote to access your personalized playlist and soundbar settings.
7.5.2 Play via AirPlay
Stream audio via AirPlay from your iOS device to the soundbar.
Diagram: Shows iOS control center for AirPlay selection.
- On an iOS device, access the Control Center.
- Tap to select the connected soundbar, then start audio streaming from an app.
7.5.3 Play via the JBL One App
The JBL One app allows you to stream audio from enabled music services to the soundbar.
7.6 Multi-room Playback
With multi-room playback, you can stream music from your Android or iOS device to multiple soundbars compatible with Google Cast or AirPlay.
7.6.1 Google Cast
- The Google Home app allows you to connect multiple Google Cast-compatible soundbars to the same network, assign them to rooms, and create groups as needed.
- Run a Google Cast-compatible app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Play music, tap , and select the grouped speakers.
Notes:
- To create a multi-room speaker group in the Google Home app, ensure all soundbars are connected to the same home network and use the same Google login account. Refer to the Google Home app for details.
- Depending on your local network bandwidth, you can stream music to up to 6 Google Cast-compatible soundbars.
7.6.2 AirPlay
Diagram: Shows iOS control center for selecting multiple speakers.
- On an iOS device, access the Control Center.
- Tap to select multiple connected speakers as needed.
- Start music streaming from an app.
8. Advanced Usage
8.1 Sound Settings (Audio Sync)
The audio sync function allows you to synchronize audio and video to eliminate any delay in your video content.
- On the remote, press and hold the TV button for over 3 seconds, then press +. "SYNC" will be displayed.
- Within five seconds, press + or on the remote to adjust the audio delay to match the video. The audio sync delay will be displayed.
Note:
- You can also adjust the audio delay in the JBL One app.
8.2 Factory Reset
To restore factory settings, press and hold the , + , and – buttons for over 10 seconds. "RESET" will be displayed. The soundbar will turn off and restart automatically when factory reset is complete.
8.3 Software Update
Connect the soundbar to your home network. Online updates will be performed automatically when software updates are available.
- "WAIT": Software update in progress.
- "DONE": Software update completed.
9. Subwoofer Reconnection
The soundbar and subwoofer are paired at the factory. Upon power-on, they automatically pair and connect. In some cases, you may need to re-pair them.
Diagram: Shows subwoofer pairing button and soundbar remote buttons.
Subwoofer Pairing Reminder:
- On the rear panel of the subwoofer, press and hold the button until it flashes white rapidly.
- To pair the subwoofer on the soundbar, press and hold the / button on the remote for over three seconds, then press the button on the remote. "SUB PAIRING" will be displayed, indicating the subwoofer is ready for pairing. "SUB PAIRED" indicates the subwoofer is connected.
Note:
- If pairing does not complete within 3 minutes, the subwoofer will exit pairing mode and enter standby. The indicator will change from fast white flashing to slow white flashing. To re-enter pairing mode, press the button.
10. Product Specifications
General Specifications
- Model: BAR 500MK2 (Soundbar), BAR 500MK2 SUB (Subwoofer)
- Audio System: 5.1 channel
- Power Supply: 100 - 240 V AC, ~ 50/60 Hz
- Total Speaker Output Power*: 750 W (max. at 1% THD)
- Soundbar Output Power**: 450 W (max. at 1% THD)
- Subwoofer Output Power***: 300 W (max. at 1% THD)
- Soundbar Speakers: 5 x 42x80 mm oval drivers + 4 x 20 mm (0.75") tweeters
- Subwoofer Speaker: 260 mm (10")
- Network Standby Consumption: < 2.0 W
- Operating Temperature: 0 °C - 45 °C
HDMI Specification
- HDMI Video Input: 1
- HDMI Video Output (with eARC): 1
- HDMI HDCP Version: 2.3
- HDR Pass-through: HDR10+, Dolby Vision
Audio Specifications
- Frequency Response: 40 Hz - 20 kHz (-6 dB)
- Audio Inputs: Optical, Bluetooth, USB (USB playback available on US version. For other versions, USB is for service only.)
USB Features (Audio playback reserved for US version)
- USB Port: Type A
- USB Specifications: 5 V DC, 0.5 A
- Supported 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 Bit Rate: 80 - 320 kbit/s
Wireless Specifications
- Bluetooth Version: v5.3
- Bluetooth Profiles: A2DP v1.3, AVRCP v1.5
- Bluetooth Transmitter Frequency Band: 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)
- Wi-Fi 2.4G Transmitter Frequency Range: 2412 - 2472 MHz (2.4 GHz ISM band, USA 11 channels, Europe and others 13 channels)
- Wi-Fi 2.4G Transmitter Power: <20 dBm (EIRP)
- 2.4G Radio Transmitter Frequency Range: 2406-2474 MHz
- 2.4G Radio Transmitter Power: < 10 dBm (PIRE)
- Wi-Fi 5G Transmitter Frequency Range: 5.15 - 5.35 GHz, 5.470 - 5.725 GHz, 5.725 - 5.825 GHz
- Wi-Fi 5G Transmitter Power: 5.15-5.25 GHz < 23 dBm, 5.25-5.35 GHz and 5.470 - 5.725 GHz < 20 dBm, 5.725 - 5.825 GHz < 14 dBm (PIRE)
- Note: The 5.6 - 5.64 GHz band is disabled for shipment 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
- Package Dimensions (W x H x D): 1020 x 395 x 490 mm / 40.2" x 15.6" x 19.3"
- Weight with Package: 18.0 kg / 39.68 lbs (EMEA/UK/AU/NZ); 15.86 kg / 34.97 lbs (Others)
- * RMS at 1% THD: 375 W
- ** RMS at 1% THD: 225 W
- *** RMS at 1% THD: 150 W
11. Troubleshooting
Never attempt to repair this product yourself. If you encounter problems during use, check the following points before requesting service.
System
The unit does not turn on.
- Check if the power cord is plugged into the mains socket and the soundbar.
The soundbar does not respond to button presses.
- Restore the soundbar to factory settings (See "8.2 Factory Reset").
Sound
No sound from the soundbar
- Check if the soundbar volume is muted.
- Select the appropriate audio input source on the remote control.
- Ensure the soundbar is correctly connected to your TV or other devices.
- Restore the soundbar to factory settings (See "8.2 Factory Reset").
Distorted sound or echo
- If streaming TV audio to the soundbar, mute your TV or disable its built-in speakers.
Audio and video out of sync.
- Activate the audio sync function to synchronize audio and video (See "8.1 Sound Settings (Audio Sync)").
No Dolby Atmos height sound effects
- If your TV only supports HDMI ARC, ensure your digital device is connected to the soundbar via its HDMI / HDMI IN connector (See "5.1.2 TV (HDMI ARC)").
- Enjoy Dolby Atmos sound effects when watching movies from the TV/HDMI source. Dolby Atmos is not supported when streaming audio via Bluetooth or streaming apps (Google Cast or AirPlay).
Bluetooth
A device cannot connect to the soundbar.
- Ensure the Bluetooth function on the device is enabled.
- If the soundbar has been paired with another Bluetooth device, reset Bluetooth (See "5.2.3 Connecting Another Bluetooth Device").
- If your Bluetooth device has already been paired with the soundbar, reset Bluetooth on the soundbar, "forget" the soundbar on the Bluetooth device, and then re-pair the Bluetooth device and soundbar (See "5.2.3 Connecting Another Bluetooth Device").
Poor audio quality from a connected Bluetooth device
- Bluetooth reception is poor. Move the source device closer to the soundbar or remove any obstacles between the source device and the soundbar.
The connected Bluetooth device connects and disconnects constantly.
- Bluetooth reception is poor. Move the source device closer to the soundbar or remove any obstacles between the source device and the soundbar.
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi connection failure
- Check if Wi-Fi is enabled.
- Verify you have selected the correct network and entered the correct password.
- Ensure your router or modem is powered on and within range.
- In your router settings, ensure the security type is set to WPA2 or auto.
- Verify your soundbar is connected to the same wireless local area network as your smartphone or tablet.
- If you have trouble configuring Wi-Fi, re-enter Wi-Fi setup by pressing and 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.
- Verify your Apple device is connected to the same network as the soundbar.
- On a PC running iTunes for Windows, you can stream music from it to the soundbar via Bluetooth.
Music playback does not work correctly when the sound source switches from Bluetooth to Google Cast or AirPlay.
- The quality of audio streaming and playback depends on the network traffic and coverage connecting the soundbar and your streaming devices (phones, tablets, PCs).
Music playback does not resume when the sound source switches from Bluetooth to TV/HDMI IN, then back to Bluetooth.
- Music playback on the Bluetooth device stops when the sound source switches from Bluetooth to TV/HDMI IN. When returning to the Bluetooth source, restart music playback on the Bluetooth device.
Remote Control
The remote control is not functioning.
- Check if the batteries are depleted. If so, replace them with new ones.
- Reduce the distance and angle between the remote control and the main unit.
Unable to complete TV remote control learning
- Ensure you are using an infrared TV remote control. 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®.
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.
Works with Samsung SmartThings:
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.
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 under GPL license. For your convenience, the source code and associated compilation instructions 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
ATTN: Open Source, Gregor Krapf-Gunther, Parkring 3
85748 Garching bei Munchen, Germany
or at OpenSourceSupport@Harman.com if you have further questions regarding the Open Source software used by the product.