JBL BAR 500
User Manual
Important Safety Information
Before using the JBL BAR 500 (soundbar and subwoofer), ensure it is compatible with your local power supply (100-240 Volts, 50/60 Hz AC). Connecting to a different voltage may pose a safety hazard and damage the unit. Consult your dealer or support representative if you have questions about your model's power requirements or your local mains voltage before plugging into a wall socket.
Do not use extension cords: For safety, use only the power cord supplied with the unit. Avoid running the power cord under carpets or rugs, or placing heavy objects on it. Damaged power cords should be replaced immediately by an authorized service center with a cord that meets the manufacturer's specifications.
Handle the AC power cord carefully: Always pull the plug, not the cord, when disconnecting from the outlet. If you do not plan to use the speaker for an extended period, unplug it from the power source.
Do not open the cabinet: There are no user-serviceable parts inside. Opening the cabinet may expose you to electric shock, and any modification to the product will void the warranty. If liquid is accidentally spilled into the unit, unplug it immediately and contact an authorized service center.
1. Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the JBL BAR 500 (soundbar and subwoofer), designed to deliver immersive 3D sound to your home entertainment system. We encourage you to take a few minutes to read this manual, which describes the product and provides step-by-step instructions to help you set up and get started.
To fully utilize the product's features and support, you may need to update the product's firmware over the internet in the future. Refer to the firmware update section to ensure your device has the latest firmware.
Design and specifications are subject to change without prior notice. For any questions regarding the soundbar, installation, or operation, please contact your dealer or support representative, or visit our website: www.jbl.com.
JBL One App
With the JBL One app, you can:
- Easily complete product setup.
- Connect to music streaming services.
- Discover new music through integrated music services.
- Use a single button to access preset playlists and speaker settings.
- Access software updates when available.
For more information, see "5.3 Connecting to Your Home Network" and "7.5 Playing Through the JBL One App".
NOTE: Subscriptions may be required and are not provided by the JBL One app.
2. What's in the Box
Carefully unpack the box and check for the following items. If any item is damaged or missing, do not use it and contact your dealer or support representative.
- Soundbar
- Subwoofer
- Remote Control (with 2 AAA batteries)
- Power Cord*
- HDMI Cable (1.2 m / 3.9 ft)
- Wall-Mount Kit
- Product Information and Wall Mount Template
*Power cord length and plug type vary by region.
3. Product Overview
3.1 Soundbar
3.1.1 Controls
1) + (Source): Selects the audio source: TV (default, for audio input from TV where the HDMI OUT (TV ARC/TV eARC) jack has priority over the OPTICAL jack), Bluetooth, or HDMI IN.
2) -/+ (Volume): Turns the unit on/off. Adjusts volume up or down. Press and hold to continuously increase or decrease volume. Press both buttons simultaneously to mute or unmute the sound.
3.1.2 Rear Panel Connections
- POWER: Connects to the power source (using the power cord).
- USB: USB port for firmware updates (for service only). USB port for MP3 file playback (US version only).
- ETHERNET: Connects to your home network via an Ethernet cable.
- HDMI IN: Connects to the HDMI output on a digital device.
- TV Connectors:
- HDMI OUT (TV ARC/TV eARC): Connects to the HDMI ARC / HDMI EARC input on your TV.
- OPTICAL: Connects to the optical output on your TV or a digital device.
3.2 Subwoofer
- Connection Indicator: Solid white: Soundbar detected by the JBL One app. Blinking white: Wi-Fi setup mode, or network disconnected. Solid amber: Restoring factory settings. Solid green: Network connected. Solid white: Wi-Fi connection is weak.
- Power Connector: Connects to the power source (using the power cord).
4. Placement
4.1 Tabletop Placement
Place the soundbar and subwoofer on a stable, level surface. Ensure the subwoofer is at least 1 meter (3 feet) away from the soundbar and at least 10 cm (4 inches) from the wall.
NOTES:
- Ensure the power cord is properly connected to the power source.
- Do not place objects on the soundbar or subwoofer.
- Ensure the subwoofer is no more than 6 meters (20 feet) from the soundbar.
4.2 Wall Mounting
Preparation:
- Attach the included wall-mount template to the wall using adhesive tape, ensuring it is at least 50 mm (2 inches) from the TV.
- Use the tip of a ballpoint pen to mark the screw holder locations. Remove the template.
- Drill a 4 mm (0.16 inch) hole at the marked location.
Installation:
- Install the wall-mount bracket supports.
- Use the screws to secure the wall-mount brackets to the back of the soundbar.
- Mount the soundbar.
NOTES:
- Ensure the wall can support the weight of the soundbar.
- Install only on a vertical wall.
- Avoid areas with high temperature or humidity.
- Before wall mounting, ensure that cables can be connected to the soundbar and external devices.
- Before wall mounting, ensure the soundbar is unplugged. Otherwise, there is a risk of electric shock.
5. Connection
5.1 Connecting to Your TV and Digital Devices
To play audio through the soundbar, connect the soundbar to your TV using the included HDMI cable or an optional optical cable.
HDMI connection supports digital audio and video through a single cable. HDMI connection is the preferred option for your soundbar.
5.1.1 TV (HDMI ARC / eARC)
(Recommended connection for the best Dolby Atmos sound experience)
1. Connect the soundbar to the HDMI IN (ARC/eARC) jack on your TV using the included HDMI cable.
- On your TV, ensure HDMI-CEC and HDMI ARC are enabled. Refer to your TV's manual for more information.
2. Connect the soundbar to a digital device, such as a TV set-top box, DVD/Blu-ray player, or game console, using an HDMI cable (V2.0 or later).
- Ensure HDMI-CEC is enabled on the digital device. Refer to the digital device's manual for more information.
- For the optimal Dolby Atmos sound experience, select "Bitstream" or "Raw data" in the audio output settings of your digital device.
3. To play audio from the digital device connected to the soundbar, select HDMI on the remote control.
NOTES:
- If your TV does not support HDMI eARC, connect the digital device to the soundbar's HDMI IN jack instead of the TV. Otherwise, Dolby Atmos information may not pass through the HDMI (ARC) ports from the TV to the soundbar.
5.1.2 TV (HDMI eARC)
1. Connect the soundbar to the HDMI IN (eARC) jack on your TV using the included HDMI cable.
- Check your TV settings to ensure HDMI-CEC and HDMI eARC are enabled. Refer to your TV's manual for more information.
2. Connect your TV to a digital device (e.g., streaming device, set-top box, DVD/Blu-ray player, or game console) using an HDMI cable (eARC compatible, V2.0 or later).
- Ensure HDMI-CEC is enabled on the digital device. Refer to the digital device's manual for more information.
- For the optimal Dolby Atmos sound experience, select "Bitstream" or "Raw data" in the audio output settings of your TV and digital device.
3. To play audio from the digital device connected to your TV, select TV on the remote control.
NOTES:
- With the soundbar's Virtual Dolby Atmos upmixer, Dolby Surround can enhance traditional Dolby Digital channel-based sound, including 5.1 and 7.1 content, to deliver an immersive 3D Atmos experience.
5.1.3 OPTICAL
1. Connect the soundbar to your TV using an optical cable.
2. Connect your TV to a digital device (e.g., streaming device, set-top box, DVD/Blu-ray player, or game console) using an HDMI cable (V2.0 or later).
3. To play audio via the optical cable, select TV on the remote control.
5.2 Bluetooth Connection
Pair the soundbar with a Bluetooth device (e.g., smartphone, tablet, or laptop) via Bluetooth.
5.2.1 Connecting a Bluetooth Device
- To select the Bluetooth source, press ← on the soundbar or on the remote control. → "BT PAIRING" will be displayed, indicating the device is ready for Bluetooth pairing.
- Enable Bluetooth on your Bluetooth device and find "JBL BAR 500" within three minutes. → Successful connection: This name will be displayed if your device name is set in English. A confirmation tone will sound.
5.2.2 Reconnecting to the Last Connected Device
The Bluetooth device will remain paired when the soundbar enters standby mode. When the Bluetooth source is turned on next time, the soundbar will automatically connect to the last paired device.
5.2.3 Connecting to Another Bluetooth Device
- To enter Bluetooth pairing mode, press and hold the BT PAIRING button on the soundbar or on the remote control until "BT PAIRING" is displayed. → The soundbar will enter Bluetooth pairing mode.
- Follow Step 2 in the "5.2.1 Connecting a Bluetooth Device" section.
- If the device was already paired with the soundbar, first unpair "JBL BAR 500" on the device.
NOTES:
- Bluetooth connection will be interrupted if the distance between the soundbar and the Bluetooth device exceeds 33 feet (10 meters).
- Electronic devices may cause radio frequency interference. Keep devices that generate electromagnetic waves away from the soundbar, such as microwave ovens, wireless LAN devices, etc.
5.3 Connecting to Your Home Network
Connect the soundbar to your home network via Wi-Fi or an Ethernet cable. With the JBL One app and supported streaming services (Chromecast built-in, AirPlay, and Alexa), the soundbar allows you to stream audio to your smartphone or tablet through the soundbar's speakers.
To connect to Wi-Fi:
- On your Android or iOS device, ensure it is connected to the same network as the soundbar. Download the JBL One app.
- Follow the in-app instructions to complete the setup.
NOTES:
- You can name your soundbar in the JBL One app on your Android or iOS device.
- On your iOS device, add the soundbar to the Apple Home app and control it along with other AirPlay-compatible devices.
- On your iOS device, if the soundbar is added to your home Wi-Fi network, you can stream AirPlay from an AirPlay-compatible app (see "7.7 Playing Through AirPlay").
- Availability of online music streaming services depends on the country.
- Some features require a subscription and are not available in all countries.
6. Setup
6.1 Subwoofer Connection
The soundbar and subwoofer are paired at the factory. Once powered on, they will pair and connect automatically. In some cases, re-pairing may be necessary.
To enter subwoofer pairing mode:
- On the back of the subwoofer, press and hold the SUB PAIRING button until the white light starts blinking rapidly.
- To enter subwoofer pairing mode on the soundbar, press and hold the BASS button on the remote control for more than three seconds, then press the button on the remote control. → "SUB PAIRING" will be displayed. → "SUB PAIRING" indicates the subwoofer is connected.
NOTES:
- If pairing and connection are not completed, the subwoofer will exit pairing mode after three minutes. The light will change from rapidly blinking white to off. To re-enter pairing mode, press the button.
6.2 3D Surround Sound
Optimize your unique listening environment for 3D surround sound.
6.2.1 Sound Calibration
1. Press CALIBR on the remote control to start calibration. → "CALIBRATION" will be displayed on the soundbar.
2. When "PRESS AGAIN TO CONFIRM" is displayed, press CALIBR again. → A countdown from 5 to 1 will begin. → A calibration tone will sound, and audio calibration will begin. "CALIBRATING": Calibration is in progress. "DONE": Calibration is complete.
NOTES:
- During sound calibration, all buttons on the remote control are disabled except for the CALIBR buttons.
6.2.2 Dolby Atmos®
With virtual Dolby Atmos, enjoy height sound effects when playing movies from a TV/HDMI IN source.
1. Connect a Blu-ray player or streaming device via the HDMI ARC/HDMI eARC and HDMI jacks, and start playback. (See "5.1 Connecting to Your TV and Digital Devices").
2. Press on the remote control to turn the height sound effects on or off (default: ON).
- "ON ATMOS" or "OFF ATMOS" will be displayed on the soundbar screen.
NOTES:
- Turn off ATMOS effects if you prefer not to have height sound effects during viewing or listening.
- ATMOS effects are only available in Dolby audio content.
6.2.3 Bass Adjustment
You can adjust the bass as needed.
Press the BASS button on the remote control to cycle through the bass levels: "LVL1" - "LVL5" (default: "LVL3").
7. Playback
7.1 Power On / Auto Standby / Auto Wake Up
7.1.1 Power On
To turn on the unit, press any button on the soundbar or on the remote control. → "HELLO" will be displayed. → The subwoofer will automatically reconnect to the soundbar. The connection indicator will light up solid white.
7.1.2 Auto Standby
If the soundbar is inactive for more than 10 minutes, it will automatically enter standby mode. "STDBY" will be displayed. The subwoofer will also enter standby mode and its indicator will light amber. When powered on again, the soundbar will return to the last selected source.
7.1.3 Auto Wake Up
In standby mode, the soundbar will wake up automatically when:
- The soundbar is connected to your TV via HDMI ARC/eARC and your TV is turned on.
- The soundbar is connected to your TV via HDMI ARC/eARC and HDMI, and also connected to a digital device (e.g., set-top box, DVD/Blu-ray player, or game console), and your digital device is turned on.
- The soundbar is connected to your home network, and audio is streamed to the soundbar via the JBL One app, Chromecast built-in, AirPlay, or Alexa music streaming services.
7.2 Playing from TV Source
With the soundbar connected, you can listen to TV audio through the soundbar's speakers.
1. Ensure your TV is set to support external speakers and that the TV's built-in speakers are disabled. Refer to your TV's manual for more information.
2. Ensure the soundbar is properly connected to your TV (see "5.1 Connecting to Your TV and Digital Devices").
3. To select the TV source, press ← on the soundbar or TV on the remote control. → "TV": The TV source is selected. The TV source is selected by default.
NOTES:
- If the soundbar is connected to the TV via both HDMI cable and optical cable, the HDMI input will be prioritized.
7.2.1 TV Remote Control Setup
IR TV Remote Learning
With the infrared learning function, your TV's remote control can learn some commands for the soundbar.
- On the soundbar, press and hold and + for more than three seconds until "LEARNING" is displayed. → You have entered TV remote learning mode.
- Point your TV remote control at the soundbar. Follow the on-screen instructions to operate the TV remote control buttons:
- When "POWER", "VOL+", "VOL-", or "MUTE" is displayed on the soundbar, press the corresponding button on your TV remote. → "DONE": The soundbar's functions are now mapped to your TV remote buttons. → The soundbar will return to the last selected source.
- The soundbar will automatically exit TV remote learning mode if no action is taken for 30 seconds. Learned functions will be discarded.
To stop and exit TV remote learning mode, press and hold and + on the soundbar until "EXIT LEARNING" is displayed. → Learned functions will be discarded.
NOTES:
For the TV remote control to operate the TV and soundbar, your TV must support HDMI-CEC. If your TV does not support HDMI-CEC, follow the instructions in the "IR TV Remote Learning" section.
If your TV supports HDMI-CEC, enable the functions as specified in your TV's manual. You can control the soundbar's volume +/-, power on/off, and standby mode using your TV remote control.
7.3 Playing Through HDMI IN
The connection diagram shown for the soundbar allows you to play video from a digital device on your TV while the sound plays through the soundbar's speakers.
1. Ensure the soundbar is properly connected to your TV and digital device (see "5.1 Connecting to Your TV and Digital Devices").
2. Turn on the digital device. → The TV and soundbar will automatically exit standby mode and switch to the input source.
- To select the HDMI IN source on the soundbar, press ← on the soundbar or HDMI on the remote control.
3. Put your TV into standby mode. → The soundbar and source device will enter standby mode.
NOTES:
- Full compatibility with all HDMI-CEC devices is not guaranteed.
7.4 Playing from Bluetooth Source
You can stream audio from a Bluetooth device to the soundbar via Bluetooth.
1. Ensure the soundbar is properly connected to the Bluetooth device (see "5.2 Connecting via Bluetooth").
2. To select the Bluetooth source, press ← on the soundbar or on the remote control.
3. Start playing audio on the Bluetooth device.
- Alternatively, press on the remote control to manage playback.
4. Adjust the volume on the soundbar, remote control, or Bluetooth device.
7.5 Playing Through the JBL One App
With the JBL One app, stream audio to the soundbar from your enabled music services.
1. On the soundbar, ensure it is properly connected to your home network (see "5.3 Connecting to Your Home Network").
2. On your Android or iOS device:
- Ensure your Android or iOS device is connected to the same network as the soundbar.
- Launch the JBL One app, browse available music streaming services to select music, and then start streaming music to the connected soundbar.
3. To exit music playback mode, switch to another source.
NOTES:
- Subscriptions may be required and are not provided by the JBL One app.
- Access presets using the (Moment) button.
- By pressing the remote control, you can access the playlist and speaker settings that you have personalized in the JBL One app.
1. In the JBL One app, personalize the (Moment) function.
7.6 Playing Through Chromecast built-in
With Chromecast built-in, you can cast audio from your Android or iOS device to the soundbar.
1. On the soundbar, ensure it is properly connected to your home network (see "5.3 Connecting to Your Home Network").
2. On your Android or iOS device:
- Ensure your Android or iOS device is connected to the same network as the soundbar.
- Launch the JBL One app and ensure you have enabled Chromecast built-in.
- In a Chromecast-enabled app, tap the cast icon and select the connected soundbar.
7.7 Playing Through AirPlay
With AirPlay, you can stream audio from your iOS device to the soundbar.
1. On the soundbar, ensure it is properly connected to your home network (see "5.3 Connecting to Your Home Network").
2. On your iOS device:
- Ensure your iOS device is connected to the same network as the soundbar.
- To access Control Center on your iOS device, swipe down from the top-right corner. Tap to select the connected soundbar, then start streaming audio in the app.
3. To exit music playback mode, switch to another source.
7.8 Playing with Amazon Music
If the soundbar is connected to the Alexa app, you can stream music from your Amazon Music library to the soundbar.
1. On the soundbar, ensure it is properly connected to your home network (see "5.3 Connecting to Your Home Network").
2. On your Android or iOS device:
- Ensure your Android or iOS device is connected to the same network as the soundbar.
- Launch the JBL One app and ensure you have enabled the Amazon Alexa music streaming service.
3. Launch the Amazon Alexa app to start playing music.
- Open the Amazon Music app to access your Amazon Music library.
- Ensure you are playing music from the same Alexa account that you enabled in the JBL One app. Refer to the Amazon Alexa app for more information.
NOTES:
- The soundbar may support audio streaming but not video streaming.
- When listening via Chromecast built-in, AirPlay, or Alexa, music playback will pause on the currently connected device if you start playing music on a second connected device.
- When switching the soundbar from Wi-Fi to a wired home network during AirPlay playback, music playback will pause and resume after a few minutes, depending on the streaming bandwidth.
- To connect the soundbar to a wired home network, see "5.3 Connecting to Your Home Network".
7.9 Playing in Multi-Room Mode
With multi-room playback, you can stream music from your Android or iOS device to multiple Chromecast-enabled / AirPlay / Alexa speakers.
7.9.1 Chromecast built-in
1. Using the Google Home app, connect multiple Chromecast speakers to the same network, place them in different rooms, and create groups as needed.
2. Launch a Chromecast-enabled app on your smartphone or tablet.
3. Play music. Tap the cast icon and select the grouped speakers.
NOTES:
- To create multi-room speaker groups in the Google Home app, ensure all speakers are connected to the same home network and use the same Google account. Refer to the Google Home app for more information.
- Depending on your local network bandwidth, you can stream music to up to 6 Chromecast speakers.
7.9.2 AirPlay
1. Sign in to the Control Center on your iOS device.
2. Tap to select multiple speakers as needed.
3. Start streaming audio from an app.
7.9.3 Alexa MRM for Multi-Room Music
1. Ensure you have enabled the Amazon Alexa streaming service on the soundbar using the JBL One app.
2. Using the Amazon Alexa app, create a multi-room music group on the soundbar. For more information, refer to the Amazon Alexa app.
NOTES:
- 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 account. Refer to the Amazon Alexa app for more information.
8. Sound Settings
8.1 Audio Sync
The audio sync feature allows you to synchronize audio and video so that the sound plays without delay.
- On the remote control, press and hold TV for more than three seconds, then press +. → "SYNC>" will be displayed.
- Within five seconds, press + or on the remote control to adjust the audio delay and match it with the video. → The audio sync interval will be displayed.
8.2 Intelligent Mode
With the default Intelligent Mode, you can enjoy enhanced sound effects when watching TV programs. When watching TV programs such as news and weather forecasts, you can reduce the sound effects by turning off Intelligent Mode and switching to Standard Mode.
Intelligent Mode: Uses EQ settings and JBL's signature surround sound for enhanced sound effects.
Standard Mode: Uses preset EQ settings for standard sound effects.
To turn off Intelligent Mode:
- On the remote control, press and hold for more than three seconds, then press +. → You will switch to another mode. "OFF SMART MODE": Standard Mode is enabled. → The next time the soundbar is powered on, Intelligent Mode will be automatically enabled.
9. Reset to Factory Settings
Resetting to factory default settings will erase all personalized settings on the soundbar.
- On the soundbar, press and hold , +, and - for more than 5 seconds. → "RESET" will be displayed. → The soundbar will restart.
10. Firmware Update
JBL may offer firmware updates for the soundbar in the future to optimize product performance and enhance functionality.
Online Update
- Connect the soundbar to your TV. The update will occur automatically if firmware updates are available. → "WAIT": Firmware update in progress. → "DONE": Firmware update complete.
11. Reconnecting the Subwoofer
The soundbar and subwoofer are paired at the factory. Once powered on, they will pair and connect automatically. In some cases, re-pairing may be necessary.
To enter subwoofer pairing mode:
- On the back of the subwoofer, press and hold the SUB PAIRING button until the white light starts blinking rapidly.
- To enter subwoofer pairing mode on the soundbar, press and hold the BASS button on the remote control for more than three seconds, then press the button on the remote control. → "SUB PAIRING" will be displayed. → "SUB PAIRING" indicates the subwoofer is connected.
NOTES:
- If pairing and connection are not completed, the subwoofer will exit pairing mode after three minutes. The light will change from rapidly blinking white to off. To re-enter pairing mode, press the button.
12. Product Specifications
General
- Model: BAR 500 (soundbar) / BAR 500 SUB (subwoofer)
- Acoustic system: 5.1 channel
- Power supply: 100–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz
- Total speaker output power (max. at 1% THD): 590 W
- Soundbar output power (max. at 1% THD): 290 W
- Subwoofer output power (max. at 1% THD): 300 W
- Soundbar transducer: 4 x (46 x 90 mm) oval cone woofers, 3 x 20 mm (0.75 inch) tweeters
- Subwoofer transducer: 260 mm (10 inch)
- Standby power consumption: < 2.0 W
- Operating temperature: 0°C – 45°C
HDMI Specifications
- HDMI Video Inputs: 1
- HDMI Video Output (with Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)): 1
- HDMI HDCP Version: 2.3
- HDR Channel: HDR10, Dolby Vision
Audio Specifications
- Frequency response: 35 Hz – 20 kHz (-6 dB)
- Audio Inputs: 1 Optical, Bluetooth, USB (USB playback available in US version only. For other versions, the USB port is for service only).
USB Specifications (USB playback available in US version only)
- USB Port: Type A
- Rated USB parameters: 5V DC, 0.5A
Wireless Connection Specifications
- Bluetooth version: 5.3
- Bluetooth Profiles: A2DP 1.2, AVRCP 1.5
- 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, 11 channels in the US, 13 channels in Europe and other regions)
- 2.4G Wi-Fi transmitter power: < 20 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 and 5.470–5.725 GHz < 20 dBm, 5.725–5.825 GHz < 14 dBm (EIRP)
13. Troubleshooting
Never attempt to repair the unit yourself. If you encounter problems with the unit, check the following points before calling for support.
System
- Unit does not turn on. Check that the power cord is plugged into the outlet and the soundbar.
- Soundbar does not respond to button presses. Reset the soundbar to factory settings (see "9. Reset to Factory Settings").
Sound
- No sound from the soundbar. Ensure that the sound is not muted. Select the correct audio source on the remote control. Connect the soundbar correctly to your TV or other devices. Reset the soundbar to factory settings by pressing and holding , +, and - on the soundbar for more than 5 seconds.
- Distorted sound or echo. If audio is playing from the TV through the soundbar, ensure that the sound on the TV is muted or that the TV's built-in speakers are not functioning.
- Audio and video are not synchronized. Enable the audio sync feature to synchronize audio and video (see "8.1 Audio Sync").
- No height sound effects from Dolby Atmos. If your TV only supports HDMI ARC, ensure you have connected the digital device to the soundbar via the soundbar's HDMI IN jack (see "5.1.1 TV (HDMI ARC / eARC)"). Enjoy Dolby Atmos height sound effects when watching movies on your TV or from an HDMI source. Dolby Atmos is not supported for Bluetooth or streaming app playback (except for Chromecast built-in, AirPlay, or Alexa).
Bluetooth
- Device cannot connect to the soundbar. Check that Bluetooth is enabled on your device. If the soundbar is connected to another Bluetooth device, reset Bluetooth (see "5.2.3 Connecting to Another Bluetooth Device"). If your Bluetooth device was previously paired with the soundbar, reset Bluetooth on the soundbar, unpair the Bluetooth device, and then pair the Bluetooth device with the soundbar again (see "5.2.3 Connecting to Another Bluetooth Device").
- Poor sound quality from a connected Bluetooth device. Poor Bluetooth reception. Move the source device closer to the soundbar or eliminate any obstructions between the source device and the soundbar.
- Connected Bluetooth device keeps connecting and disconnecting. Poor Bluetooth reception. Move the source device closer to the soundbar or eliminate any obstructions between the source device and the soundbar.
Wi-Fi Network
- Wi-Fi connection error. Ensure Wi-Fi is enabled. Ensure you have selected the correct network and entered the correct password. Ensure your router or modem is powered on and within range. Ensure your router settings have WPA2 or Auto security type selected. Ensure the soundbar is connected to the same wireless local network as your smartphone or tablet. If you have trouble setting up Wi-Fi, press and hold + and - 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 or later, macOS 10.15.4 or later, or tvOS 14.3. Ensure your Apple device is connected to the same network as the soundbar. If iTunes is installed on your PC, you can stream music from your PC to the soundbar via Bluetooth.
- Music playback is intermittent when switching audio sources from Bluetooth to Chromecast built-in, AirPlay, or Alexa. The quality of audio streaming and playback depends on the traffic and coverage of the network connecting the soundbar and the streaming devices (e.g., smartphones, tablets, and computers).
- Music playback does not resume when switching audio sources from Bluetooth to TV/HDMI IN and back to Bluetooth. Music playback on the Bluetooth device stops when switching the audio source from Bluetooth to TV/HDMI IN. When you reconnect to the Bluetooth source, start playing music on the Bluetooth device again.
- The soundbar is in "Offline" status in the Amazon Alexa app or experiencing issues with Alexa MRM playback. To restore the soundbar, reset it to factory settings by pressing and holding , +, and - on the soundbar for more than 5 seconds.
Remote Control
- Remote control does not work. Check if the batteries are leaking. If so, replace them with new ones. Reduce the distance and angle between the remote control and the main unit.
- Failed to complete TV remote control learning. Check if you are using an infrared TV remote control. Bluetooth TV remote controls do not support infrared learning.
14. 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 6 CERTIFIED™
Wi-Fi CERTIFIED 6™ and the Wi-Fi CERTIFIED 6™ Logo are trademarks 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 © 2012-2021 Dolby Laboratories. All rights reserved.
Works with Alexa
Amazon, Alexa, and all related marks are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.
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.
Works with Google Home
Google, Android, Google Play, Chromecast built-in, and Google Home are trademarks of Google LLC. Google Assistant is not available in certain languages or countries.
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 500, the latest version of iOS, iPadOS, or macOS is recommended.
15. Open Source License Notice
This product contains GPL-licensed open source software. For your convenience, the source code and related build instructions are also available at https://harman-webpages.s3.amazonaws.com/JBL_BAR_Gen3_package_license_list.htm. Contact us:
Harman Deutschland GmbH
ATT: Open Source, Gregor Krapf-Gunther, Parkring 3
85748 Garching bei Munchen, Germany
or
OpenSourceSupport@Harman.com, if you have further questions regarding the open source software.