Bought on a whim to replace an outdated sound system and glad I did. The sound quality is great and is very loud. I've only really had it up to about 20% volume. Set up was simple and once done, automatically connects to wifi easily. I can control it through the JBL app and also google home. I didn't think I'd end up using the Google or Alexa voice commands and I haven't set up Alexa to be honest but I use the google voice almost exclusively now and it's a great time saver and very useful to get updates on the weather or any other questions I may have as well as for skipping songs or changing playlists etc. This model needs to be plugged in compared with some of the other Authentics models but I'm now seriously considering one of those to add a speaker to another room and possibly for taking out and about but worried the sound may not be as good after getting this model so a little hesitant but we will see. I'm sure there are other features that I haven't used, such as setting up different music software on there. (I only use spotify at present) but maybe in time, and it's nice to have the option available. I haven't hooked anything up with wires as have had no need to yet but may hook up the TV to utilise it as a speaker for that as well. Overall, I can't really fault it and look forward to setting up some automations through google to get it to start up as I get home or maybe some other things I haven't thought of.

its powerful audio performance and sleek retro design. The 270-watt speaker delivers rich, clear sound with deep bass, making it perfect for a variety of music genres and large spaces. Its compatibility with both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth ensures seamless connectivity, while the integration of Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant adds a layer of convenience for voice control and smart home integration. One standout feature is the multi-room capability, allowing you to pair multiple JBL speakers for a synchronised audio experience throughout your home. The build quality is solid, with a stylish leather-wrapped exterior that fits well in any decor. However, the JBL Authentics 500 comes with a few minor drawbacks. The price point is on the higher side, which might be a deterrent for budget-conscious buyers. Additionally, the setup process can be somewhat challenging for those unfamiliar with smart speakers. In conclusion, the JBL Authentics 500 is a top-tier speaker offering robust sound quality and modern smart features, ideal for audiophiles and tech enthusiasts willing to invest in premium audio equipment.

The JBL Authentics 500 is a beautifully designed speaker that seamlessly blends retro aesthetics with modern smart audio tech. From the moment I unboxed it, the throwback aesthetic transported me back to the 1970s hi-fi era. The real wood veneer enclosure and iconic Quadrex grill styling exude a premium, vintage vibe that classes up any living space. But the old-school looks belie the cutting-edge sound quality within. JBL managed to pack this compact cabinet with room-filling, dynamic Dolby Atmos audio that brings music and movies to life. The clarity from the aluminum tweeters is excellent, while the patented bass port delivers robust low-end without distortion. It projects an immersive 360-degree soundstage way beyond what I expected from the size. As someone surrounded by smart home gadgets, I also loved the built-in voice assistant capabilities. Having hands-free Alexa and Google Assistant control on board lets me easily pull up playlists, check weather/traffic, or control other connected devices with simple voice commands. The wireless streaming versatility is hugely convenient. My only real complaint is that the Authentics 500's EQ tuning feels a bit bass-heavy out of the box. Some tweaking through JBL's app helped balance it out to my tastes. I also wish the vintage design included a headphone jack. Overall, the Authentics 500 delivers fantastic retro style and smart functionality with punchy, room-filling JBL sound quality. It's a fantastic audio centrepiece for any nostalgic music lover or home theatre setup craving that iconic 70s hi-fi flavour with modern perks.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Quirky design, with an enjoyable sound profile. I enjoy listening to music on this speaker, you can have music playing quietly and still get a punchy decent sound from it. It's definitely a bassy profile, which might not work for some people, but on the hole it makes most music sound good! The looks are a masive part of it, get this if you like how it looks, if not don't bother as there are other options that will cost a bit less and sound just as good! With regards to connectivity, this works well as a smart speaker - and responds well to "hey google". However casting to it from chrome wasn't amazing, I found it would have lots of pauses when my laptop moved. Airplay was almost impeccable, and bluetooth also worked very well!

I was looking for something for the front room that was premium quality and also Alexa enabled as thats what we primarily us to listen to music in the house. This fits the bill beautifully, everything on it is as high end as you would expect even the packaging!! The sound from its many speakers is clear and full and the bass from the woofer on the bottom really packs a punch. Everything on it is premium quality from the materials on the outside to the dials on the top. My only small issue would be requiring an app for it as its always a negative to have to install more things on my phone. All round great product.++

After testing the JBL Authentics 500 for a few weeks, I can confidently say that this speaker is a must-have for music lovers. The sound quality is simply superb, delivering high-definition audio that fills both small and large rooms with ease. Setting up the JBL Authentics 500 is easy and the added features like Bluetooth pairing and voice assistance make it a user friendly and convenient. I of course have to mention the design - classic yet modern! Love it! Has been a talking point among my guests when they see it. Overall, I would highly recommend the JBL Authentics 500 to anyone seeking a fab sound experience. Its exceptional sound quality, user-friendly features and design make it worth the investment.

The JBL Authentics 500 stands apart in the world of wireless speakers, where sleek minimalism. Its retro-inspired aesthetic, with a bold grille and genuine walnut accents, makes a statement in any interior. This isn't just about looks; the Authentics 500 delivers a sonic experience that matches its imposing presence. The warmth and spaciousness of the sound are immediately striking. While certainly capable of thunderous bass, it doesn't sacrifice clarity in the mids and highs. This speaker breathes life into everything from vintage jazz to modern electronic music. The JBL One app offers EQ customization, but frankly, I found the default tuning near perfect. Connectivity is a breeze, whether using its built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or even the classic 3.5mm input. Voice assistants like Google and Alexa are supported, broadening the speaker's functionality beyond pure audio. Physical controls on the top panel are a joy to use, with satisfying tactile feedback. The JBL Authentics 500 commands a premium price tag, and its size demands a dedicated spot in your home. However, if you crave both power and character in a wireless speaker, the Authentics 500 delivers a truly memorable listening experience.

What can I say !!! When I purchased this I had no idea what I was in for. The very unassuming speaker blasted my expectations to another planet. Setting up and connecting to my JBL spinner was a breeze. The sound and clarity are stunning, the output is more than I could ever have expected. I found no negatives to report here. FANTASTIC

I've been using this as part of a set up for my bedroom, along with a JBL Spinner turntable. It sounds so great I'm positive it outperforms most people's main system in their living room. The sound is rich and full, the bass in particular is excellent, but the treble sounds great too. This speaker really has a lot of power, I think I may like it more than my neighbours! I really like the fact that it's Bluetooth too, so I can easily move it round the house or in the garden for parties, without having to mess about with cables. I'm absolutely delighted with my speaker and I would wholeheartedly recommend this product!

The JBL Authentics 500 is a statement piece in both design and performance. With its retro-inspired wooden cabinet and metallic accents, it adds a touch of elegance to any room. But beyond its aesthetics, this speaker packs a punch with its advanced sound engineering. Featuring six high-performance drivers and a built-in 300W amplifier, it delivers crisp highs, rich mids, and deep, powerful bass. One of the standout features of the Authentics L16 is its versatility. It offers multiple connectivity options, including Bluetooth, AirPlay, DLNA, and Spotify Connect, making it easy to stream music from virtually any device. Additionally, it has three auxiliary inputs, a USB port for charging devices, and even a built-in FM tuner for listening to your favorite radio stations. The JBL Authentics 500 is not just a speaker; it's a complete audio system. It's equipped with Harman Signal Doctor technology, which restores compressed music files to their original quality, ensuring that you hear every detail of your favorite tracks. Plus, its RoomEQ feature automatically adjusts the sound based on the speaker's placement in the room, optimizing the listening experience for any environment. Whether you're hosting a party, relaxing at home, or simply enjoying your favorite music, the JBL Authentics L16 delivers an immersive and captivating audio experience that's second to none.