JBL - Authentics 500 vs Sonos - Symfonisk Bookshelf (Gen 2)
Between the Authentics 500 and Symfonisk Bookshelf (Gen 2), the Authentics 500 comes out ahead in dolby atmos and output, while the Symfonisk Bookshelf (Gen 2) wins on several specs. Overall, the Authentics 500 scores 83 and the Symfonisk Bookshelf (Gen 2) scores 35 on our Mars Score.
Which should you buy?
The Authentics 500 is the clear pick on raw spec strength, leading by 48.0 points on the Mars Score. The margin is wide enough that the underdog only makes sense if its individual strengths line up with what you specifically need.
Pick the Authentics 500 if you care most about dolby atmos and output. The biggest gaps in its favor are dolby atmos, output.
The Symfonisk Bookshelf (Gen 2) similarly doesn't carry a headline advantage on the popular specs — look at the full table for category-specific deltas.
Both ship with comparable matter / thread, so those specs don't separate the two — focus on the differences below.
Bottom line: the Authentics 500 is the safer default. The other model is the right choice only when its specific advantages line up with your priorities.
Why JBL - Authentics 500 wins
- ▲Has Dolby Atmos.
- ▲Output: 270 W vs 0 W.
Why Sonos - Symfonisk Bookshelf (Gen 2) wins
- No decisive advantages.
Spec comparison
Audio
| Spec | JBL - Authentics 500 | Sonos - Symfonisk Bookshelf (Gen 2) |
|---|---|---|
| Output | 270 Wlead | 0 W |
| Stereo pairing | true | true |
| Dolby Atmosⓘ | truelead | false |
Assistant & Smart Home
| Spec | JBL - Authentics 500 | Sonos - Symfonisk Bookshelf (Gen 2) |
|---|---|---|
| Voice assistant | Alexa,Google Assistant | Alexa |
| Matter / Thread | false | false |
| Zigbee hub | false | false |
Spec-level deep dives
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