Sony HT-X8500 vs JBL Bar 9.1 review

vs

The Sony HT-X8500 vs JBL Bar 9.1 comparison proves that these soundbars have many common features. Based on our rating, HT-X8500 has a total rating of 6 out of 10 versus 9 for Bar 9.1.

Audio features

Both soundbars have active amplification type. A significant difference between the units in the number of channels, the Sony HT-X8500 has 2.1 versus 9.1 for the JBL Bar 9.1. Only the Sony HT-X8500 has a built-in subwoofer. The Sony HT-X8500 got our rating of 6 out of 10, and the JBL Bar 9.1 9 for its audio features and specs.

Streaming services

Spotify support is available on the Bar 9.1.

Connectivity

Only the JBL Bar 9.1 can connect to the Internet via WI-FI. Rivals from our review have Bluetooth support. Each soundbar has 1/1 HDMI inputs/outputs. The HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC) feature supports both devices. Both soundbars have a USB connector. For connectivity, the HT-X8500 received a rating of 8/10 versus 10/10, respectively.

Features

App control is available for the Bar 9.1. A built-in microphone is present only on the Bar 9.1. Multi-room is only available for the JBL Bar 9.1.

Multichannel surround

Both devices have support for Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format. A surround technology DTS:X is supported only by the HT-X8500. For multichannel surround Sony HT-X8500 got a rating of 10, and JBL Bar 9.1 7 out of 10.

Advantages Sony HT-X8500 over JBL Bar 9.1

Advantages JBL Bar 9.1 over Sony HT-X8500