I’ve seen many people asking about the Bose Bass Module 500 vs 700, and I’ve spoken with a number of music lovers about their preferences between these popular Bose soundbars. I own a Bose Bass 700 now, and I used to own a Bose Bass 500 soundbar.
In this post, I will compare the Bose Bass Module 500 and the Bose Bass Module 700, based on a number of different parameters. So, if you’re looking for a detailed comparison of these two popular Bose soundbars, with my own insights plus a curated compilation of opinions from the broader internet, you’ve come to the right place.
Which is the best Soundbar for you: Bose Bass Module 500 vs 700?
When deciding between the Bose Bass module 500 vs 700, two factors are most important: sound quality and budget. For those who value sound quality and have the spare cash (or for those with a larger room to fill), the Bose Bass Module 700 is the better choice. Having said this, the Bose Bass Module 500 is still a good soundbar, and has many happy customers with a reduced budget (and smaller rooms).
I found that the Bose Bass Module 500 did the job well. Now that I’ve upgraded to the Bose Bass Module 700, I’ve noticed a definite improvement in sound quality, and I’m thrilled I made the choice despite the extra expense. If you have the budget, you won’t regret the upgrade. But luckily, you’re not missing out too much if you stick with the Bose Bass Module 500!
Compare Bose Bass Module 500 and 700
Image | Product | Price |
---|---|---|
Bose Soundbar + Bass Module 500 Budget Choice
| Check PriceFull Review >>> | |
Bose Soundbar + Bass Module 700Richer Sound
| Check PriceFull Review >>> |
#1 Bose Bass Module 700 (a richer sound experience)
Pros
- Advanced Audio Decoding: The Bose Soundbar and Bass Module 700 can handle DTS and Dolby Digital. This means it can deliver high-quality audio from various content, enhancing your listening experience.
- Design and Weight: Weighing 10.5 pounds, the Soundbar 700 has an attractive design that adds a touch of elegance to your home entertainment setup. Its dimensions are 2.25 X 38.5 X 4.25 inches, making it a substantial but stylish addition to your home.
- Color Options: The Soundbar 700 comes in both Arctic White and Black color options, allowing you to choose the one that best matches your home decor.
- Superior Sound Quality: The Soundbar 700 provides a fantastic bass response and richer sound with two side-facing drivers and two mid-range speaker drivers. This results in a more immersive audio experience.
- PhaseGuide Technology: The Soundbar 700 uses Bose’s proprietary “PhaseGuide” transducers to direct sounds in multiple directions, creating a more enveloping sound field.
- Universal Remote: The Soundbar 700 includes a Bluetooth-enabled “Universal Remote” with features to switch between music playlists and more, providing enhanced control over your audio experience.
- Connectivity Options: The Soundbar 700 is equipped with an optical audio cable and an HDMI cable for wired connectivity, offering flexibility in how you set up your system.
Cons
- Weight: Weighing 10.5 pounds, the Soundbar 700 is heavier than the Soundbar 500. This might make it a bit more difficult to install or move around.
- Glass Feature: The Soundbar 700 has a glass feature that can easily capture dust and fingerprints. This might require more frequent cleaning to keep it looking its best.
- Price: The Soundbar 700 is more expensive than the Soundbar 500. While it offers more features and superior sound quality, it might not be the best choice for those on a tight budget.
The Bose Bass Module 700 is a high-quality sound system with richer sound and more advanced features than the Bose Bass Module 500. While it is more expensive, its superior audio performance and attractive design make it a great investment for anyone who wants a richer sound experience.
#2 Bose Bass Module 500 (the budget choice)
Pros
- Affordability: The Bose Soundbar and Bass Module 500 is a popular choice for buyers on a budget. It balances cost and quality, making it an attractive option for those who want a decent sound system without breaking the bank.
- Compact and Stylish Design: Weighing just 7 pounds, the Bose Soundbar 500 is compact and meticulously designed. Its dimensions are 1.75 X 31.5 X 4 inches, making it a sleek addition to any home entertainment setup.
- Color and Finish: The Soundbar 500 comes in a black color option with a matte top. This finish does not capture fingerprints and dust easily, making it easy to maintain and clean.
- Sound Quality: Despite its size, the Soundbar 500 provides decent sound with three powerful front-facing drivers on either side of the tweeter. It also offers surround sound with four mid-range speaker drivers, enhancing the audio experience.
- Basic Remote Included: The Soundbar 500 has a basic small IR remote, providing easy control over the system.
Cons
- Limited Audio Decoding: The Soundbar 500 can only decode Dolby Digital. This might limit the audio quality when playing content that uses other audio codecs.
- Limited Connectivity: The Soundbar 500 is equipped with an HDMI cable only. This might limit the connectivity options for users who want to connect multiple devices to the soundbar.
- Color Options: The Soundbar 500 offers only a black color option. This might disadvantage users who prefer a different color to match their home decor. Personally, I’m devastated there is no purple option 😉
- Lack of Advanced Features: Compared to higher-end models like the Soundbar 700, the Soundbar 500 lacks some advanced features. This includes voice control, Wi-Fi connectivity, and more sophisticated audio processing capabilities.
The Bose Bass Module 500 is a solid choice for those on a budget. While it may lack some advanced features, it offers good sound quality and a sleek design that fits most home entertainment setups well (although it is not best suited for larger rooms).
Comparison Between Bose Bass 500 and 700: A Quick Overview
First, the similarities:
Both versions of the Bose bass module feature Quiet port Technology to lower sound distortion and increase bass performance.
Again, both subwoofers have an integrated power supply and can be wirelessly connected across many devices.
Coming to the key differences:
Specs | Bose 500 | Bose 700 |
Weight | 7 lbs | 10.5 lbs |
Depth | 4 inches | 4.25 inches |
Height | 1.75 inches | 2.25 inches |
Width | 31.5 inches | 38.5 inches |
Remote Type | Normal Remote only for the soundbar | Universal remote for all household devices |
Optical Audio Cable | No | Yes |
Cleaning Cloth | No | Yes |
DTS | No | Yes |
Dolby Digital | Yes | Yes |
Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
Smartphone App | Yes (through Bose Music App) | Yes (through Bose Music App) |
Price Details | Check Price | Check Price |
Bose Module 700 creates impressive front-facing sound with the help of a larger build to fit in four mid-range drivers and a tweeter.
Its standout features include a smart voice assistant and eARC support. You get additional DTS support with Universal Remote and PhaseGuide transducers.
Despite its expensive price, Bose 700 is loved by customers due to its rich sound output.
Bose 500 offers less rich sound quality due to its smaller frame. Its lack of DTS support is a little disappointing, but it provides the same voice assistant features as the Bose 700.
- Also Read: Top 10 Party Speakers In 2021
Here are the main differences between Bose Soundbar + Module 700 and 500 for your exceptional choice:
- Check Out This Amazing Comparison Right Now!
- Comparison Between Bose Bass 500 and 700: A Quick Overview
- Bose Bass Module 500 vs 700: Is Bose 500 Soundbar worth the money?
- Bose Bass Module 500 Review: Pros and Cons
- Bose Bass Module 500 Frequently Asked Questions
- Bose Module 500 vs 700: Why Bose 700 Soundbar is Better?
- Bose Bass Module 700 Review: Pros and Cons
- Bose Bass Module 700 Frequently Asked Questions
- Bose Bass Module 500 or 700: The Verdict
- A Few Words About The Excellent Manufacturer!
- Final Words on Bass Soundbar + Module Comparison
Bose Bass Module 500 vs 700: Is Bose 500 Soundbar worth the money?
Bose Module 500
Affordable with Smart Features
- Fairly well-balanced sound profile with neutral audio performance.
- Well-suited for voice-oriented content like podcasts and audiobooks.
- Delivers great center channel performance for action movie dialogue with versatile usage through various music-listening experiences.
- Decent overall built quality with the metal grille at the front and the sides.
- Offers excellent wireless connections. Allows connectivity via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and also through Apple AirPlay but not through Chromecast built-in.
Now, we shall discuss the detailed features of Bose soundbar 500 + bass module combining expert comments, customer reviews, and our assessment:
Build Quality and Design
The overall build quality of Bose 500 makes a HUGE DIFFERENCE.
The soundbar has a metal grille on the sides and at the front face. The remaining area is made of good quality plastic material. The entire build and design feel robust after many years of usage.
But it can’t be called “premium” as Bose 700.
This Bose soundbar has a fairly efficient design with two touch-sensitive buttons on the left.
It’s a compact and lightweight option and will not block your TV screen to which it will be connected.
There is no satellite or subwoofer provided with this soundbar setup.
Sound Quality
This soundbar has a well-balanced and flat sound profile with a satisfactory stereo frequency response. However, Bose 500 faces trouble reproducing the rumble and deep thump sound from bass-heavy music genres thanks to its fairly high low-frequency extension.
Love listening to music?
Bose soundbar 500 is a good choice, with a decent and wide sound stage with 2 speaker drivers on the device’s left and right sides. The soundbar can get decently loud with a nice stereo dynamics performance.
Users get a pure and clean sound with good Total Harmonic Distribution, which does not jump even at maximum volume.
Love movie-dialogues?
Great.
This soundbar delivers distortion-free sound for movie dialogues with a 3.0 setup dedicated center channel. Its Dialogue enhancement feature helps you hear movie dialogues more clearly, even at low volume.
- Want A Louder Sound? Check out our updated guide now!
Bose 500 also offers a good sound enhancement feature to correct audio depending on the room in which you are listening. You can set up the room enhancement feature using Bose ADAPTiQ headset.
On the downside, Bose soundbar 500 has a poor surround sound feature. This means you don’t get an immersive audio experience to the truest extent.
Again, you cannot customize your sound as per your preference because of the lack of an EQ feature.
Connectivity
Users can easily cast files to this bar using their wired home network.
However, you get limited physical connections to plug into this device. Lack of HDMI In implies that you can put this bar between your game console and TV. It only supports
Dolby Digital surround sound is common in Blu-rays and streaming platforms. DTS format is also not available. There are no satellites or subwoofers attached to this Bose setup either.
On the upside, this Bose soundbar has excellent latency and amazing wireless playback options.
These options include a) Bluetooth, b) Wi-Fi, and even c) Apple AirPlay. However, you cannot connect with Chromecast built-in.
Extra Features
This Bose soundbar has a unique interface that takes time to learn, but it’s worth your time. The set of lights on the device responds differently to the actions of the user.
There are two buttons, one for the “microphone off” button to disable the voice assistant feature and an “active button” to manually activate VAs like Alexa.
It has a basic remote to control volume and music playback and can activate BT pairing with any device.
You can also use your Television remote to control and adjust basic bar functions. Users can listen to podcasts or internet radio through the Bose Music app, which works on Android and iOS.
This soundbar enters standby mode after 20 minutes of inactivity.
What’s In The Box
Here is the list of items you get with Bose soundbar + bass module 500 setup:
Bose Bass Module 500 Review: Pros and Cons
Pros
- It comes at an affordable price to fit in the budget of most music lovers’
- Decent Build Quality, which is compact for tighter fits.
- Wider sound stage and spacious sound profile for a satisfying listening experience.
- Good connectivity options with in-built voice assistant features.
Cons
- No DTS support
- It needs a subwoofer to get an extra level of bass to its sound, adding to its cost
- No built-in Chromecast for connectivity.
Bose Bass Module 500 Frequently Asked Questions
How do I connect my Bose Bass Module 500 to Bose Soundbar 500?
There are 2 simple steps.
First, you need to connect one end of a 3.5mm audio cable to the x connector on Bose Bass Module 500.
Secondly, you will connect the other end of the cable to the h connector on the back of the speaker or soundbar.
How do I connect the Bose Soundbar 500 to my woofer and wireless speaker?
There are five simple steps to be followed in the order mentioned here:
1) Connect your bass module 500 to an AC power socket
2) Select Bose soundbar 500 in the Bose Music App via the My Bose screen.
3) Now, you need to touch the soundbar 500 image in the bottom-right corner of the My Bose screen.
4) Next, tap Settings → Accessory Speakers and add Bose Accessory Speakers
5) Follow the instructions on the app to connect your woofer.
How do I reset my Bass Module 500?
Press the button on the Bass Module 500 and hold it until the status light blinks white.
This will clear all saved connectivity information and return the device to its original factory settings.
The light blinks amber once the reset is complete, and you will have to connect the bass module to the soundbar again.
Bose Module 500 vs 700: Why Bose 700 Soundbar is Better?
Bose Module 700
Richer Sound with Excellent Finish
- Its sound profile is slightly bright yet pretty neutral, which is impressive for a great musical experience.
- Reproduces accurate and clear sound, which is excellent for TV shows and movie dialogues, thanks to its balanced mid-range and dedicated center channel.
- The Bose’s best wireless bass module comes with a subwoofer that is mainly made of plastic with a glass top and metal grille on the sides. Metal grilles on the satellites help protect the speaker drivers.
- It comes with sound adjustment features with the power input to modify bass and treble as per your preference to suit the music genre you are listening to.
- Equipped with a universal remote to adjust all the bar’s functions and control other devices in your household.
Now, we shall discuss the detailed features of Bose Soundbar + Bass Module 700, combining expert reviews, customer feedback, and our assessment:
Build Quality and Design
This bar + bass module has an elegant vibe and offers a sophisticated design. Its glassy look feels premium.
Its materials feel durable and solid. Its sides are made of plastic, whereas its satellite is made of metal grilles to protect the speaker drivers.
The glass surface on the top makes the surface reflective, and thus it can get soiled easily. Its subwoofer is made of plastic.
Overall, Bose soundbar 700 has an aesthetic design and a top-notch look and feel. It comes in “Bose Black” and “Arctic White” color variants.
The bar is large but compact overall, and it will not block your TV screen, making it a perfect case for your home audio setup.
Sound Quality
The sound profile of this surround speaker is neutral, with excellent stereo frequency response for listening to various types of music genres. It is perfect for bass-heavy music and podcasts.
Its wide stereo soundstage offers a more accurate audio experience. The perfect combination of treble and bass adjustment features helps you adjust the audio per your preference.
Despite some compression at the maximum volume, Bose soundbar 700 can get pretty loud for DJ songs thanks to its decent stereo dynamic range.
The sound reproduction is pure and clean, with good THD performance even at high volumes. You can hear TV shows, dramatic sound in movies, and vocal-centric content with an amazing center channel performance.
Unlike the Bose soundbar 500, you can immerse yourself in your favorite movie thanks to the powerful driver. Its dedicated surround speakers ensure that footsteps and voices in movies are represented with stunning clarity.
Users can take advantage of the sound and room enhancement features to adjust the sound reproduction based on the unique characteristics of the room they are in. However, you need to use the Bose ADATIQ headset included in the setup.
You can even adjust the rear and sub-level output using the Bose Music App.
No doubt why Bose 700 is a popular option for music lovers with a big budget!
Connectivity
Bose soundbar 700 setup has amazing audio format support via Optical. It supports DTS content and Dolby Digital, commonly found on Blu-ray discs and various streaming platforms.
Its wireless playback quality is simply superb. You get a wireless range of up to 30 feet to stream sounds via Wi-Fi, Apple AirPlay, and Bluetooth.
Its incredible latency performance makes it ideal for watching videos and movies via ARC and Optical connections. It offers a subwoofer and satellites for wireless connectivity as well.
On the downside, this bar + bass module setup does not support more premium audio formats like Dolby Digital Plus. There isn’t a Full HDMI In or AUX port to connect with your smartphone and other devices.
Overall, it has few wired connectivity options.
However, users can find a “DATA” audio port in the bar set up for firmware updates.
Extra Features
The interface of this bar + bass module setup is less intuitive, with no display. The soundbar’s light strip lights up differently based on the user’s input.
When you press the mic mute button, red light is shown to signify that the command is fulfilled. However, you must look into the manual to get used to the interface.
There are two buttons: ‘Mic Mute Button’ and ‘Action Button,’ in this device to disable and activate the voice assistants. Users get a Universal Remote, unlike Bose 500, which also supports HDMI CEC.
Universal Remote lets you control the bar’s functions and other devices in the household. HDMI CEC feature means you even use your TV’s remote to control the basic functions of the Bose soundbar 700.
Bose 700 has built-in Voice Assistant support for Google Assistant and Alexa, which you can put on or off as per your command. Then there is Bose Music App which lets users play a variety of podcasts and internet radio stations apart from providing basic control options.
Just like Bose 500, this soundbar setup option enters into inactive mode after 20 minutes of inactivity. It uses an integrated power supply with 120 volts of nominal wattage.
What’s In The Box
Here is the list of items you get with Bose soundbar + bass module 700 setup:
Bose Bass Module 700 Review: Pros and Cons
Pros
- It delivers richer and exemplary sound thanks to its larger mid-range driver, making it suitable for music listening across genres.
- An aesthetic design with premium and durable built.
- Equipped with a “Universal Remote” to control household devices and the soundbar.
- Supports DTS content and Dolby Digital for brilliant movie effects on various platforms with incredibly detailed sound.
- Offers PhaseGuide transducers for better performance.
Cons
- No Built-in Chromecast for connectivity
- Expensive
- Glass Top gets dirty easily.
Bose Bass Module 700 Frequently Asked Questions
Does Bose 700 support 4K?
Bose Soundbar setup supports HDMI 2.0b. This upgrades the video capability to include a 4K video transmission with HDR at 60 frames/sec and up to 32 channels of audio.
The major benefit of 4K support is the high-quality audio output to watch movies or stream TV shows.
How many speakers and drivers does Bose 700 have?
Bose Soundbar 700 setup has 4 mid-range drivers – two on either side of the central tweeter. They support one set of surround speakers for music listening across genres.
Does Bose Soundbar 700 support Dolby Digital Plus?
Bose 700 Soundbar can decode DTS, Dolby Digital, and PCM 5.1. But it does not support Dolby Digital Plus as of now.
Bose Bass Module 500 or 700: The Verdict
Check out this ABT video comparison between Bose 500 and 700 Soundbars!
Bose soundbars 500 and 700 are excellent choices for your home entertainment system, but there can be only one winner. You may have got the hint. Now, let’s announce the winner!
And the winner is…Bose Soundbar 700 setup.
Superior bass-heavy audio output, DTS support for connectivity, Universal Remote, and optical cable are some of the pro features of Bose 700 to trump over Bose 500.
But Bose soundbar 500 remains a decent choice with clean sound with an array of smart features like its expensive counterpart.
If you are on a budget and don’t want to go for hefty features, Bose 500 is your ideal choice.
So, choose wisely!
A Few Words About The Excellent Manufacturer!
Bose Corporation is a reputed audio device manufacturer. They have various product lines, from personal items like headphones to full-home entertainment setups like soundbars.
Check out our article on how to choose the best audio device – it’s definitely worth a read!
Bose soundbars have a premium design, are well-built, and have an easy upgradeable setup. They have been in the business of audio and electronics right from 1964.
Over the years, engineering, innovation, and sustainability have turned out to be the biggest USPs of Bose Corporation.
Some consider Bose products to be a bit overpriced, and they over-focus on lifestyle and design rather than on sound quality. It is natural for such a large audio company to have complaints and controversies.
Overall, Bose Corporation has never failed to provide world-class products at an affordable price range.
Final Words on Bass Soundbar + Module Comparison
We are confident you will find your perfect pick in Bose 500 vs 700 comparisons.
It’s a choice between quality and budget, and we have offered detailed product features to get the best value for your money.
So will you choose a richer sound or a budget choice?
Share it in the comments below. Have a good day, readers, as always 🙂
About the Author
Rach Wellard
Rach Wellard is the driving force behind Sound & Solitude. Her mission is to help you discover the profound impact of sound in your daily life and to explore the beauty of solitude. With a deep passion for the connection between soundscapes and emotions, she brings a unique blend of expertise and personal dedication to our platform.
Rach understands that every individual's auditory journey is unique, and she’s here to guide you every step of the way. As a devoted audiophile, Rach’s discerning ear carefully selects the most exceptional products that align with your desires for Sound or Solitude. In a world filled with noise and chaos, Sound & Solitude serves as your sanctuary.
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At Sound & Solitude, authenticity is our foundation. We provide unbiased reviews and comparisons because you deserve nothing but the truth. Our reviews are meticulously crafted, drawing upon Rach’s deep understanding of audio technology and the human experience in the Sound and Solitude realms. Whether you're searching for noise-cancelling headphones to immerse yourself in music or seeking a gaming headset that transports you to virtual worlds, you can rely on our reviews and personally tested comparisons to find the best equipment for your specific needs. Explore our carefully curated content, from the latest wireless audio advancements to tips for creating your ideal auditory retreat.
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Thanks and well done. Looking at 700 soundbar with 500 base module. Small room and mainly looking for stronger base support to the soundbar. Would have liked your thoughts on that?
Nice choice. Same for me 🙂
Thanks, every good review
Soundbar 700 is quite nice but not worth for money
Soundbar 500 + base 500 is a good system for start with budget
I agree with you, Tony! Quality within the budget is always commendable!