JBL Cinema SB170 Review: Does It Deliver Deep Bass?

Transform your home entertainment experience without breaking the bank. The JBL Cinema SB170 soundbar promises to deliver impressive audio quality at an affordable price point.

Are you tired of your TV’s weak built-in speakers? Looking for a simple audio upgrade that delivers deep bass and clear dialogue? The JBL Cinema SB170 might be exactly what you need. This soundbar combines JBL’s legendary audio expertise with practical features designed for everyday users.

This comprehensive review examines every aspect of this 2.1 channel soundbar system to help you make an informed purchasing decision.

Key Takeaways

• Powerful 220W system delivers impressive sound quality for movies and music entertainment
• Wireless 6.5-inch subwoofer produces deep bass without cluttering your living room with cables
• Multiple connectivity options including HDMI ARC, optical, and Bluetooth for versatile device pairing
• Budget-friendly pricing makes premium sound accessible to more consumers
• Simple setup process gets you up and running quickly without technical expertise
• Compact design fits seamlessly under most TV setups without overwhelming your space

Design And Build Quality

The JBL Cinema SB170 showcases a sleek and modern design that complements contemporary living spaces. The soundbar measures approximately 35 inches in length, making it suitable for TVs ranging from 43 to 55 inches. The matte black finish provides a sophisticated appearance that blends seamlessly with most entertainment setups.

Build quality feels solid despite the budget-friendly price point. The main soundbar unit features a sturdy plastic construction with a fabric grille covering the front-facing drivers. The wireless subwoofer stands 13 inches tall and delivers substantial bass response through its 6.5-inch driver. Both components feel well-constructed and should withstand regular use in typical home environments.

The soundbar includes mounting hardware for wall installation, though it sits perfectly flat on most TV stands and entertainment centers. The subtle LED indicators on the front panel provide clear status information without being distracting during movie watching or music listening sessions.

JBL Cinema SB170 – Main Features

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The JBL Cinema SB170 packs impressive features into its affordable package. The 220W total system power splits between the main soundbar and wireless subwoofer to create a balanced 2.1 channel audio experience. Four full-range drivers in the soundbar handle mid and high frequencies, while two 1-inch tweeters ensure crisp dialogue and detailed sound reproduction.

Dolby Digital support enhances movie and TV show audio with immersive surround sound processing. This feature works particularly well with streaming services and Blu-ray content that includes Dolby Digital encoding. The system automatically detects and processes these signals for optimal audio performance.

The wireless subwoofer connection eliminates the need for running cables across your room. The subwoofer pairs automatically with the main soundbar during initial setup, creating a clean and clutter-free installation. This wireless design provides flexibility in subwoofer placement for optimal bass response in your specific room layout.

Multiple EQ presets allow you to customize the sound profile based on your content preferences. Movie mode emphasizes dialogue clarity and surround effects, while music mode provides balanced frequency response for stereo audio content.

Connectivity Options And Setup

Setting up the JBL Cinema SB170 proves remarkably straightforward. The HDMI ARC connection provides the simplest installation method for most modern TVs. This single cable carries both audio from your TV and allows the soundbar remote to control volume levels. The HDMI ARC feature also enables automatic power synchronization between your TV and soundbar.

Optical digital input serves as an alternative connection method for older TVs or devices without HDMI ARC support. The included optical cable ensures compatibility with a wide range of audio sources. This connection method provides excellent digital audio quality, though it lacks the convenience features of HDMI ARC.

Bluetooth connectivity enables wireless streaming from smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices. The pairing process takes just a few seconds, and the connection remains stable during playback. Audio quality through Bluetooth sounds impressive for wireless streaming, though wired connections still provide slightly better fidelity.

The setup process typically takes less than 10 minutes. The wireless subwoofer pairs automatically when both units are powered on for the first time. LED indicators on both components confirm successful pairing and provide ongoing status information during operation.

Sound Quality Performance

Sound quality represents the most important aspect of any soundbar evaluation. The JBL Cinema SB170 delivers surprisingly impressive audio performance considering its budget-friendly price point. Dialogue clarity stands out as a particular strength, with clear vocal reproduction that makes movie and TV dialogue easy to understand even at moderate volume levels.

The frequency response feels well-balanced across most content types. Mid-range frequencies sound natural and detailed, while the tweeters provide crisp high-frequency reproduction without harshness or sibilance. The four full-range drivers create a wider soundstage than typical TV speakers, improving the overall listening experience.

Bass response from the wireless subwoofer adds significant impact to movies and music. The 6.5-inch subwoofer driver produces deep, controlled bass that enhances action sequences and music without overwhelming the mid-range frequencies. Bass levels remain adjustable through the remote control for room-specific optimization.

Volume levels reach satisfying levels for medium to large rooms. The 220W system power provides adequate headroom for most listening situations without distortion or compression. Dynamic range handling impresses during movie soundtracks with quiet dialogue scenes followed by explosive action sequences.

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Movie Watching Experience

The JBL Cinema SB170 transforms movie watching with significantly improved audio compared to built-in TV speakers. Action movies benefit greatly from the wireless subwoofer’s deep bass response, adding impact to explosions, vehicle chases, and dramatic music scores. The enhanced low-frequency response creates a more immersive viewing experience.

Dialogue intelligibility remains excellent even during complex movie soundtracks. The center channel processing ensures that character voices stay clear and prominent in the mix, reducing the need to constantly adjust volume levels during different scenes. This feature proves particularly valuable for late-night viewing when you want clear dialogue without excessive volume.

Surround sound processing through Dolby Digital creates a wider audio image that extends beyond the physical soundbar dimensions. While not true surround sound, the processing creates convincing directional effects that enhance the movie-watching experience. Sound effects appear to come from different locations across the front soundstage.

The Movie EQ preset optimizes frequency response specifically for film content. This setting emphasizes dialogue frequencies while maintaining adequate bass response for dramatic impact. The preset works well with most movie genres, from quiet dramas to explosive action films.

Music Listening Quality

Music playback through the JBL Cinema SB170 delivers balanced stereo imaging with good frequency response across different musical genres. The soundbar creates a wider stereo image than typical TV speakers, though it cannot match dedicated stereo speakers in terms of imaging precision and soundstage depth.

Bass response for music feels controlled and musical rather than boomy or overwhelming. The wireless subwoofer integrates well with the main soundbar drivers, creating smooth transitions between frequency ranges. Rock and pop music sound dynamic and engaging, while acoustic music retains natural tonality.

Bluetooth streaming quality exceeds expectations for wireless audio transmission. The connection remains stable during playback, and audio quality sounds detailed and clear for most music sources. Volume synchronization between your mobile device and soundbar works smoothly for convenient control.

The Music EQ preset provides optimized frequency response for stereo music content. This setting reduces excessive bass emphasis while maintaining full-range frequency response. The preset works particularly well for vocal-heavy music genres and acoustic recordings.

Remote Control And User Interface

The included remote control provides comprehensive access to all soundbar features and settings. Button layout feels intuitive with clearly labeled functions for power, volume, source selection, and EQ presets. The remote responds quickly to button presses with minimal delay between commands and system response.

Volume control offers precise adjustment with smooth transitions between levels. The remote can control both overall system volume and individual subwoofer levels for room-specific optimization. Bass adjustment proves particularly useful for different listening preferences and room acoustics.

Source switching between different input connections happens quickly through dedicated remote buttons. HDMI, optical, and Bluetooth sources switch seamlessly without audio dropouts or delays. Input memory remembers your last-used source for convenient operation.

EQ preset selection cycles through Movie, Music, and other sound modes with a single button press. Each preset provides noticeable changes in frequency response and sound character. The LED indicators on the soundbar confirm preset changes and current settings.

Wireless Subwoofer Performance

The wireless subwoofer represents a key feature that sets the SB170 apart from budget soundbar alternatives. Wireless connectivity eliminates cable runs across your room while maintaining reliable connection between components. The pairing process works automatically during initial setup without requiring manual intervention.

6.5-inch driver size provides substantial bass output for a budget-friendly system. The subwoofer produces deep, controlled bass that enhances both movies and music without overwhelming the mid-range frequencies from the main soundbar. Bass response extends down to approximately 50Hz for satisfying low-frequency reproduction.

Placement flexibility allows you to position the subwoofer for optimal bass response in your specific room. The wireless connection works reliably within typical room distances, providing freedom to experiment with subwoofer positioning. Room acoustics significantly impact bass response, making placement adjustment important for best results.

Volume adjustment for the subwoofer operates independently from the main soundbar levels. This feature allows you to balance bass output with your room size and personal preferences. Late-night listening benefits from reduced subwoofer levels while maintaining clear dialogue from the main soundbar.

Gaming Performance

Gaming audio through the JBL Cinema SB170 provides noticeable improvements over built-in TV speakers. Action games benefit from enhanced bass response and clearer sound effects. Gunfire, explosions, and vehicle sounds gain additional impact through the wireless subwoofer, creating more engaging gameplay experiences.

Dialogue clarity in story-driven games remains excellent, ensuring that character voices and important audio cues stay clearly audible during complex gaming soundtracks. Directional audio cues improve through the soundbar’s wider frequency response and stereo imaging capabilities.

Input lag remains minimal through both HDMI and optical connections, maintaining tight synchronization between visual and audio elements during fast-paced gaming. Volume levels provide adequate headroom for immersive gaming without causing neighbor complaints or hearing damage.

Communication clarity during online gaming improves significantly compared to TV speakers. Voice chat and game audio balance well, allowing clear communication with teammates while maintaining awareness of important game sounds and music.

Pros And Cons Analysis

Advantages of the JBL Cinema SB170 include excellent value for money, simple setup process, and impressive sound quality for the price point. The wireless subwoofer adds significant bass impact without cable clutter, while multiple connectivity options ensure compatibility with various devices and TV models.

Build quality feels solid despite the budget-friendly pricing, and the compact design fits well in most entertainment setups. Customer support from JBL provides reliable assistance when needed, backed by the company’s established reputation in audio equipment.

Limitations include the lack of advanced features found on higher-end soundbars. No Wi-Fi connectivity means you cannot integrate the system with smart home platforms or streaming services directly. Limited EQ adjustments may disappoint users who prefer extensive audio customization options.

Room size limitations become apparent in very large spaces where the 220W power output may not provide adequate volume levels. Premium materials are absent in favor of cost-effective construction, though this directly contributes to the attractive pricing.

Value For Money Assessment

The JBL Cinema SB170 represents exceptional value in the budget soundbar category. Performance per dollar exceeds expectations, delivering significantly improved audio quality compared to TV speakers at a reasonable price point. Feature set includes essential connectivity options and the valuable wireless subwoofer.

Competition analysis reveals that similar soundbars from other manufacturers often cost significantly more while providing comparable features and performance. Long-term reliability appears strong based on JBL’s established reputation and customer feedback from extended use periods.

Upgrade path considerations suggest that users seeking more advanced features will eventually need to invest in higher-end models. However, the SB170 serves as an excellent entry point into better TV audio without requiring substantial financial commitment.

Total cost of ownership remains low due to minimal power consumption and no subscription fees or additional hardware requirements. Warranty coverage provides adequate protection for the investment, giving buyers confidence in their purchase decision.

Installation And Mounting Options

Physical installation of the JBL Cinema SB170 accommodates various setup preferences and room layouts. Tabletop placement works well on most TV stands and entertainment centers, with the soundbar sitting stable and level on flat surfaces. Rubber feet prevent sliding and reduce vibration transmission to furniture.

Wall mounting hardware comes included for users who prefer a cleaner installation. Mounting templates and detailed instructions simplify the wall-mounting process for most users. Cable management options help maintain a tidy appearance when wall-mounted, though cable length limitations may require careful planning.

Subwoofer placement offers considerable flexibility due to the wireless connection. Optimal positioning typically involves placing the subwoofer near a wall or corner for enhanced bass response, though experimentation with different locations helps achieve the best sound for your specific room acoustics.

Room acoustics significantly impact overall performance, particularly bass response from the wireless subwoofer. Hard surfaces reflect sound differently than carpeted or furnished rooms, requiring potential adjustment of EQ settings and subwoofer positioning for optimal results.

Maintenance And Longevity

Long-term ownership of the JBL Cinema SB170 requires minimal maintenance beyond basic cleaning and care. Dust accumulation on the fabric grille should be addressed periodically using a soft brush or vacuum cleaner attachment. Electronic components benefit from adequate ventilation to prevent overheating during extended use.

Software updates are not available for this model, as it lacks network connectivity features. Firmware remains static throughout the product lifespan, which eliminates update-related issues but also prevents feature additions or bug fixes through updates.

Component lifespan should provide many years of reliable service based on typical home audio equipment standards. Driver degradation occurs gradually over time, though normal use patterns should not cause noticeable performance changes for several years.

Warranty service through JBL provides support for defective units, though most users report trouble-free operation. Replacement parts availability may become limited after several years, making proper care important for maximizing product lifespan.

Comparison With Similar Models

Direct comparison with competing budget soundbars highlights the JBL Cinema SB170’s strengths and weaknesses. Samsung HW-B550 offers similar features at a comparable price point but lacks the wireless subwoofer that provides the SB170’s bass advantage. Build quality remains comparable between both models.

Sony HT-S20R includes rear speakers for true surround sound but costs significantly more than the SB170. Value proposition differs substantially, with the Sony targeting users willing to pay premium prices for additional features and more complex setup requirements.

LG soundbar alternatives in similar price ranges typically offer fewer features or reduced power output compared to the SB170. Connectivity options vary between manufacturers, though most budget models include basic HDMI and optical inputs like the JBL system.

Brand reputation considerations favor JBL’s established audio expertise, though personal preferences and specific feature requirements should guide individual purchasing decisions rather than brand loyalty alone.

Final Verdict

The JBL Cinema SB170 succeeds admirably as a budget-friendly soundbar that delivers significant audio improvements over TV speakers. Sound quality exceeds expectations for the price point, while the wireless subwoofer adds valuable bass impact that enhances both movies and music.

Ease of setup makes this soundbar accessible to users without technical expertise, while multiple connectivity options ensure compatibility with various devices and TV models. Value for money represents the system’s strongest selling point, offering premium features at an affordable price.

Limitations include the lack of advanced features and smart connectivity options found on higher-end models. However, these compromises directly contribute to the attractive pricing that makes quality audio accessible to more consumers.

Recommendation strongly favors the JBL Cinema SB170 for users seeking their first soundbar upgrade or those prioritizing value over advanced features. The combination of solid build quality, impressive sound performance, and budget-friendly pricing creates an compelling package for most users.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between JBL Cinema SB170 and other JBL soundbars?

The SB170 represents JBL’s entry-level 2.1 soundbar with 220W power and wireless subwoofer. Higher-end models like the SB550 offer more power, additional channels, and advanced features like Dolby Atmos support.

Can I use the JBL Cinema SB170 with older TV models?

Yes, the optical digital input ensures compatibility with older TVs lacking HDMI ARC support. Most TVs manufactured within the last 15 years include optical audio outputs that work with this soundbar.

How do I adjust the bass level on the SB170?

The remote control includes dedicated bass adjustment buttons that increase or decrease subwoofer output levels independently from the main soundbar volume. You can also adjust bass through your TV’s audio settings menu.

Does the wireless subwoofer require separate power?

Yes, the wireless subwoofer plugs into a wall outlet and requires its own power connection. The “wireless” designation refers to the audio signal transmission between the soundbar and subwoofer, not the power requirements.

What is the warranty coverage for the JBL Cinema SB170?

JBL provides a standard manufacturer warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty terms vary by region, so check with your retailer or JBL directly for specific coverage details in your area.

Can I connect multiple devices to the soundbar simultaneously?

The SB170 accepts one wired connection (HDMI or optical) and one Bluetooth connection, but only plays audio from the currently selected source. You must switch sources using the remote control to change between connected devices.

Last update on 2026-01-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API