Nothing about the JBL Authentics 500 comes across as shy and retiring. From its burly dimensions to its retro good looks and powerful, attention-grabbing sound, the largest member of JBL’s Authentics range of wireless speakers is also one of its most sonically outgoing. Were the Authentics 500 a party going pal, it would be the one dancing on the tables with its shirt off, belting out Wonderwall at the top of its lungs as it reaches for its sixth Peroni of the night.
Friends like that can be a blessing; they’re great for getting the party started and, in the right doses, they’re a hell of a lot of fun – but are this JBL's ‘look at me, listen to me’ charms likely to wear thin after a time?
