One of the most inventive soundbars on the market just got a lot more affordable. The JBL Bar 700 Mark 2—a 7.1-channel system with two detachable, battery-powered rear speakers—is currently selling for $549.99 at Amazon, down from its regular $899.99. That's a $350 discount, and it's turning heads among home theater enthusiasts and casual listeners alike.
This deal arrives amid Amazon's Spring Sale, and it's not the first time the Bar 700 Mark 2 has seen a price cut. But at nearly 40% off, it's one of the steepest discounts yet for a system that blurs the line between a traditional soundbar and a full surround-sound setup.
A clever modular design
The Bar 700 Mark 2 is best known for its ingenious rear speakers. Unlike conventional satellites that require wired connections and permanent placement, these two compact speakers dock into the ends of the main soundbar for charging. When you want truly immersive audio, you detach them and place them behind your seating area. They run on rechargeable batteries that last up to ten hours—enough for a movie marathon or a long gaming session—and can be recharged by simply snapping them back onto the bar or via USB-C.
This modularity isn't just a gimmick; it's a practical solution for people who live in apartments or rooms where running speaker wire is impractical. You can also carry one of the satellites to another room, ensuring you don't miss a beat of the action while moving around your home. JBL even includes wall mounts in the box, giving you flexibility in placement.
Audio performance that punches above its price
Beyond the clever hardware, the Bar 700 Mark 2 delivers robust sound. The main soundbar houses seven channel drivers, including side-firing tweeters that bounce audio off walls to create a wide, enveloping soundstage. The system supports Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X, adding a convincing height dimension to compatible movie and game soundtracks. A wireless subwoofer supplies deep, punchy bass, while the overall tuning is polished and detailed.
Reviewers have been quick to praise JBL's modular approach. Forbes, in a review of the related JBL Bar 1300 MK2—which shares the same detachable-speaker concept—said the soundbar “sounds incredible” and highlighted the “clever modular design.” That praise extends to the Bar 700 Mark 2, which offers many of the same features at a more accessible price point.
Connectivity and convenience
The Bar 700 Mark 2 is well equipped for modern TV setups. It includes HDMI input with HDR10+ and Dolby Vision passthrough, plus HDMI output with ARC/eARC support, so you can pass lossless audio from your TV to the soundbar with a single cable. Optical input is also available for older sources. The bar handles both Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X formats, automatically upscaling non-object-based audio for a more immersive experience.
If you're concerned about the battery life of the rear speakers, JBL has you covered. The satellites are designed to draw power while docked, and they'll last the full length of an average long movie. If you need a quick top-up between scenes, a USB-C connection works too.
An ideal time to buy
The $549.99 price at Amazon represents a significant saving over the system's $899.99 MSRP. It's worth noting that other retailers have occasionally matched similar pricing, but this Amazon Spring Sale deal appears to be widespread and widely advertised. Kotaku flagged the drop as one of the better soundbar deals of the season, while Technobezz noted the $549.95 price point, underscoring that the savings are real across the board.
If you're in the market for a soundbar that doesn't compromise on true surround sound, the JBL Bar 700 Mark 2 offers a rare combination of versatility, performance, and value. Whether you're building a dedicated home theater or simply want to upgrade your living room audio, this deal makes it easier than ever to experience cinematic sound without the hassle of traditional multi-speaker wiring.
“If you’re seeking this kind of versatility, you might be pleased to know that the system has been steeply discounted at Amazon, costing $549.99 (originally $899.99).” — The Verge
Who should buy the JBL Bar 700 Mark 2?
This system is ideal for anyone who wants genuine rear-channel effects but hates cable clutter. The detachable speakers make it a standout for apartment dwellers, renters, or anyone who rearranges furniture often. It's also a great fit for projectors and TVs where running wires is difficult.
However, if you're a hardcore audiophile seeking the absolute highest fidelity, you might look at dedicated separates. But for the vast majority of viewers, the Bar 700 Mark 2 offers a sweet spot of convenience, features, and sound quality that's exceedingly hard to beat at this price.
With the Spring Sale still ongoing, now is the time to act. Once the discount expires, the soundbar is likely to return to its regular price, so if this sounds like the upgrade your living room has been waiting for, hit that order button.
