Build quality:

Comparing JBL 5.1 vs 9.1, the 9.1 soundbar is larger in width when satellites are attached to it. This means you can pair it with larger TVs like 75” sizes. These soundbars have plastic bodies and metal grilles. Subwoofers are made of melamine. They have simple and easy setups that will take a few minutes. With JBL 9.1 bar, you have the option to attach the satellites to the bar or use them independently. They have great build quality that seems durable and long lasting.

Audio performance:

Comparing JBL 5.1 vs 9.1 soundbars, the 9.1 bar has a 5.1.4 channel configuration. It comes with additional satellite speakers that attach to the bar. They are battery powered that can run for 10 hours with a 3-hour charge. There is also a separate subwoofer that has 10” down-firing drivers. It has drivers for front left, right, center and height channels. It comes with a built-in microphone that runs sound calibration to optimize performance.

Satellite speakers are responsible for engaging and immersive surround sound. Upward-firing drivers from soundbar and satellites emit sound towards the ceiling that bounces off and comes back to the user. Overhead effects are decent, and it makes movies quite enjoyable. The soundbar has a balanced sound nature that makes it suitable for different content types.

JBL 5.1 is a 5.1 channel soundbar that comes with additional subwoofer. It has 5 front-firing full-range drivers. It uses MultiBeam technology to produce room-filling and cinematic sound. Similar to the JBL 9.1, it also has room calibration feature that improves the sound. Low ends packs a punch and the dedicated 10” subwoofer helps in this case. With side-firing drivers, the soundbar has a wide soundstage. Comparing JBL 5.1 vs 9.1 models, the 9.1 bar has a more powerful soundstage.

The bar has crisp highs and powerful lows making it an ideal choice for movie lovers. You can also follow actions on screen which might be missing in the 5.1 bar. Although these soundbars can get quite loud, it is best to place them in medium sized places to avoid any distortion at high volume. You can try placing the JBL 9.1 soundbar in a large room as it comes with dedicated satellites.

With independent center channel, the voices are loud and clear. By tweaking bass/treble or choosing required preset, the soundbars can deliver dynamic and rich sound.

Features:

JBL 5.1 and 9.1 soundbar models are versatile. They have Apple Airplay and Chromecast built-in. These soundbars allow 4k video passthrough that you can watch on TV or projector. With HDR support, the images will have good color accuracy and detail. Apple Airplay 2 allows you to stream contents from Apple devices and apps to JBL speakers or other Airplay 2 compatible speakers. You can talk with Siri to command her different things like controlling playback, etc.

JBL 9.1 soundbar works with Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and Dolby Digital. DTS:X creates powerful movie effects giving you a realistic experience. With Chromecast built-in, use the Cast button to stream contents from desired apps. Wi-Fi allows seamless streaming from internet radio and online streaming services. You can create multiroom audio system with Chromecast. Simply add other JBL Link speakers and Chromecast supported speakers.

Connectivity:

JBL 5.1 and 9.1 soundbars have HDMI in and out, USB, Ethernet and optical port. So, connecting new or older TVs is easy as breeze. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are available for wireless streaming.   

Control options:

Basic control options are available on the top of both these soundbars including volume up/down, play/pause, switch input. There is a remote control as well for the JBL 5.1 with which you can adjust bass, choose TV/Bluetooth, and increase/decrease volume. For JBL 9.1, additional height adjustment is available. However, with the remote you can not skip or go to the next track.

None of these soundbars have built-in voice assistants. However, with an additional device you can talk to Google Assistant. Airplay allows you to talk to Siri-enabled devices as well.

Cost:

Comparing JBL 5.1 vs 9.1 soundbars, the 9.1 model is costlier. They have a difference of $100 between them. If you want a decent surround sound system in a tight budget, then the JBL 5.1 Surround Soundbar is for you.

FAQ:

Where should I place the satellite speakers of JBL 9.1 bar?

If you want to use them as surrounds, place them beside or behind the user. The user manual comes with precise measurements of heights for surrounds, subwoofer and soundbar.

How to perform Bluetooth pairing with JBL soundbars?

You can use the remote control, press and hold the Bluetooth button. Wait for the ‘BT Pairing’ to be displayed. In your device, turn on Bluetooth and from the list, scan to find the desired soundbar. To ensure a stable connection, make sure to keep the device within 33 ft.