Add to your order
- Coverage for accidental damage including drops, spills, and broken parts, as well as breakdowns (plans vary)
- 24/7 support when you need it.
- Quick, easy, and frustration-free claims.
- No Additional Cost: You pay nothing for repairs – parts, labor, and shipping included.
- Coverage: Plan starts on the date of purchase. Malfunctions covered after the manufacturer's warranty. Power surges covered from day one. Real experts are available 24/7 to help with set-up, connectivity issues, troubleshooting and much more.
- Easy Claims Process: File a claim anytime online or by phone. Most claims approved within minutes. If we can’t repair it, we’ll send you an Amazon e-gift card for the purchase price of your covered product or replace it.
- Product Eligibility: Plan must be purchased with a product or within 30 days of the product purchase. Pre-existing conditions are not covered.
- Terms & Details: More information about this protection plan is available within the “Product guides and documents” section. Simply click “User Guide” for more info. Terms & Conditions will be available in Your Orders on Amazon. Asurion will also email your plan confirmation with Terms & Conditions to the address associated with your Amazon account within 24 hours of purchase.
- No Additional Cost: You pay nothing for repairs – parts, labor, and shipping included.
- Coverage: Plan starts on the date of purchase. Malfunctions covered after the manufacturer's warranty. Power surges covered from day one. Real experts are available 24/7 to help with set-up, connectivity issues, troubleshooting and much more.
- Easy Claims Process: File a claim anytime online or by phone. Most claims approved within minutes. If we can’t repair it, we’ll send you an Amazon e-gift card for the purchase price of your covered product or replace it.
- Product Eligibility: Plan must be purchased with a product or within 30 days of the product purchase. Pre-existing conditions are not covered.
- Terms & Details: More information about this protection plan is available within the “Product guides and documents” section. Simply click “User Guide” for more info. Terms & Conditions will be available in Your Orders on Amazon. Asurion will also email your plan confirmation with Terms & Conditions to the address associated with your Amazon account within 24 hours of purchase.
- Buy a lot of stuff on Amazon? Tons of items eligible for coverage, from the latest tech like laptops, game consoles, TVs, phones, and cameras to major appliances, sporting goods, tools, toys, mattresses, personal care, furniture, and more.
- Accidents happen. That’s why for your portable products we cover accidental damage from handling such as drops, spills and cracked screens. We also cover electrical and mechanical malfunctions,power surges, and wear and tear.
- Past and future purchases covered. 30 days after you are enrolled,all eligible past purchases (up to 1 year prior to enrollment) and future eligible purchases made on Amazon will be covered by your plan as long as you are enrolled.
- Fast, easy claims. Frustration-free claims, with most filed in minutes. We will fix it, replace it, or reimburse you with an Amazon e-gift card for the purchase price of your product (excluding tax).File at Asurion.com/amazon.
- No hidden fees.For just $16.99 a month + tax you’re covered for up to $5,000 in claims per 12-month period. *THIS PROGRAM IS MONTH-TO-MONTH AND WILL CONTINUE UNTIL CANCELED* Coverage for all products ends 30 days after the plan is canceled. Cancel any time.
Add to your order
- Coverage for accidental damage including drops, spills, and broken parts, as well as breakdowns (plans vary)
- 24/7 support when you need it.
- Quick, easy, and frustration-free claims.
![Amazon prime logo](https://cdn.statically.io/img/m.media-amazon.com/images/G/01/marketing/prime/new_prime_logo_RGB_blue._CB426090081_.png)
Enjoy fast, free delivery, exclusive deals, and award-winning movies & TV shows with Prime
Try Prime
and start saving today with fast, free delivery
Amazon Prime includes:
Fast, FREE Delivery is available to Prime members. To join, select "Try Amazon Prime and start saving today with Fast, FREE Delivery" below the Add to Cart button.
Amazon Prime members enjoy:- Cardmembers earn 5% Back at Amazon.com with a Prime Credit Card.
- Unlimited Free Two-Day Delivery
- Streaming of thousands of movies and TV shows with limited ads on Prime Video.
- A Kindle book to borrow for free each month - with no due dates
- Listen to over 2 million songs and hundreds of playlists
- Unlimited photo storage with anywhere access
Important: Your credit card will NOT be charged when you start your free trial or if you cancel during the trial period. If you're happy with Amazon Prime, do nothing. At the end of the free trial, your membership will automatically upgrade to a monthly membership.
Buy new:
$379.00$379.00
Ships from: Amazon.com Sold by: Amazon.com
Save with Used - Very Good
$349.00$349.00
FREE delivery August 14 - 16
Ships from: CellularStream Sold by: CellularStream
1.27 mi | ASHBURN 20147
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
7 VIDEOS
-
![](https://cdn.statically.io/img/images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/G/01/x-locale/common/grey-pixel.gif)
Image Unavailable
Color:
-
-
-
- To view this video download Flash Player
![](https://cdn.statically.io/img/m.media-amazon.com/images/G/01/kindle/mako/features/interact_with_alexa/assets/interact_with_alexa_icon._CB485941731_.png)
Bose Home Speaker 500: Smart Bluetooth Speaker with Alexa Voice Control Built-in, Silver
Return this item for free
We offer easy, convenient returns with at least one free return option: no shipping charges. All returns must comply with our returns policy.
Learn more about free returns.- Go to your orders and start the return
- Select your preferred free shipping option
- Drop off and leave!
Learn more
Return this item for free
We offer easy, convenient returns with at least one free return option: no shipping charges. All returns must comply with our returns policy.
Learn more about free returns.- Go to your orders and start the return
- Select your preferred free shipping option
- Drop off and leave!
-
Amazon Music offer with this purchase Terms
![This smart speaker has been certified by Amazon for its built-in Alexa functionality, providing a voice-forward experience to play music, read news, control other smart home devices, and more.](https://cdn.statically.io/img/m.media-amazon.com/images/I/21R85tkHvCL.png)
Alexa Built-in
This smart speaker has been certified by Amazon for its built-in Alexa functionality, providing a voice-forward experience to play music, read news, control other smart home devices, and more.
Purchase options and add-ons
Brand | Bose |
Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
Audio Output Mode | Stereo |
Mounting Type | Wall Mount |
Model Name | Home Speaker 500 |
About this item
- SOUND PERFORMANCE: Fill any room with impressive wall-to-wall stereo sound from a single speaker
- BUILT-IN-ALEXA: Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant are built into this smart speaker for hands-free voice control. And a noise-rejecting mic system listens in every direction for your voice
- CONNECTIVITY: Pair your device to this home speaker to stream your favorite music and more via a Bluetooth connection, your home Wi-Fi network, Apple AirPlay 2, or Spotify Connect
- CONTROL: Easily control your home speaker with three different ways to manage what you hear: your voice, the Bose Music app, or 6 one-touch presets on top of the speaker
- MAKE OR TAKE CALLS: With Alexa only, make or take calls from this smart speaker to Bose smart products, Amazon Echo products, and anyone in your contacts list. Hands free, phone free, and free of charge
- BOSE MUSIC APP: Use the Bose Music app for simple setup with detailed prompts
- COMPATIBLE PRODUCTS: This home speaker is part of the Bose Smart Family and works with other Bose smart speakers and soundbars for a multi-room listening experience
- BOSE SIMPLESYNC TECHNOLOGY: SimpleSync pairs your Bose Home Speaker 500 to compatible Bose products for sound that follows you from room to room. Away from your phone? Press and hold the Bluetooth button on each device to sync their sound. Already got a group going? Link by pressing the Action button to connect at a moment’s notice
Consider a similar item
Frequently bought together
![Bose Home Speaker 500: Smart Bluetooth Speaker with Alexa Voice Control Built-in, Silver](https://cdn.statically.io/img/images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/91UFyD7h+3L._AC_UL116_SR116,116_.jpg)
Similar items that may ship from close to you
- NEW Bose SoundLink Max Portable Speaker, Large Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker, Up to 20 Hours of Battery Life, USB-C, Built-in 3.5mm AUX Input, BlackAmazon's Choicein Portable Bluetooth SpeakersFREE Shipping by AmazonGet it as soon as Saturday, Aug 17
- Bose Portable Home Speaker Charging Cradle, 9 watts, SilverFREE Shipping on orders over $35 shipped by AmazonGet it as soon as Saturday, Aug 17
- Bose SoundLink Revolve+ (Series II) Bluetooth Speaker, Portable Speaker with Microphone, Wireless Water Resistant Travel Speaker with 360 Degree Sound, Long Lasting Battery and Handle, Black30% offLimited time dealFREE Shipping by AmazonGet it as soon as Saturday, Aug 17
- Amazon Echo Studio | Our best-sounding smart speaker ever - With Dolby Atmos, spatial audio processing technology, and Alexa | CharcoalFREE Shipping by AmazonGet it as soon as Saturday, Aug 17
- Sonos Era 100 - White - Wireless, Alexa Enabled Smart SpeakerFREE Shipping by AmazonGet it as soon as Saturday, Aug 17
- Sony SRS-RA3000 360 Reality Audio Wi-Fi / Bluetooth Wireless Speaker, Works with Alexa and Google Assistant, BlackFREE Shipping by AmazonGet it as soon as Saturday, Aug 17
WARNING:
Top Brand: Bose
From the brand
![Bose Sound is power](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/S/aplus-media-library-service-media/187773ed-2cd0-45f8-9a8d-e0315021e181.__CR0,0,1464,625_PT0_SX1464_V1___.jpg)
From the manufacturer
![home speaker, bluetooth speaker, multi room audio](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/S/aplus-media/vc/a6429fec-d567-4381-b435-fe764c3c10d8.__CR0,0,1464,600_PT0_SX1464_V1___.jpg)
Bose Home Speaker 500
Stay home — and entertained.
Living room dance party? Puzzle party? Craft night? Makeshift cooking competition? Whatever you have planned, the Bose Home Speaker 500 delivers the sound you want to keep your family entertained all day — and all night — long.
What sources can I play music from?
Use Alexa or the Bose Music app to play directly from music services over Wi-Fi, or use Bluetooth or the 3.5mm aux jack. Or stream to it with Spotify Connect or AirPlay 2 from an Apple device.
How can I control the music playing on the speaker?
You can start and control content on the Bose Home Speaker 500 with your voice, the buttons on the speaker, the Bose Music app, Spotify Connect (through the Spotify app), or AirPlay 2 from an Apple device.
Is the Bose Home Speaker 500 compatible with other speakers?
The Bose Home Speaker 500 only works with other members of the Bose Smart Home Family for multi-room listening. You can also use Bose SimpleSync technology to pair it with a Bose SoundLink speaker for synchronized music playback.
Can I make or take calls from the Bose Home Speaker 500?
Yes. With Alexa only, you can make or take calls to Bose smart products, Amazon Echo products, and anyone in your contacts list. To call products, both parties must have this feature set up and be on Wi-Fi.
Can I control Spotify through Voice?
Yes. If you have a Spotify Premium account, you can play and control Spotify using Alexa with commands like 'Alexa, play Sam Fisher on Spotify," 'Alexa, play Discover Weekly on Spotify,' 'Alexa, next track,' etc.
![home speaker, bluetooth speaker, multi room audio](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/S/aplus-media/vc/72ba529f-93f5-4d86-9260-418aec4c91f1.__CR0,0,1464,600_PT0_SX1464_V1___.jpg)
Simple control. Hard to stop listening.
Take control of your listening experience with the Bose Music App. Browse all your music in one place, and seamlessly jump between stations, playlists, and services. Plus, it’s another simple way to control the Bose Home Speaker 500. You can easily set up your six presets, and multiple users can personalize their experience and content.
![bluetooth speaker, home speakr, alexa, google](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/S/aplus-media/vc/eb4819ec-8d69-445d-975d-95e442f1182c.__CR0,0,800,600_PT0_SX800_V1___.jpg)
![family](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/S/aplus-media/vc/e4202298-061a-4803-a7f2-338b3e457655.__CR0,0,800,600_PT0_SX800_V1___.jpg)
Meet the Bose family
The Bose Home Speaker 500 is part of a new family of smart speakers and soundbars. Alexa voice control built in, you have millions of songs at the tip of your tongue. Or, manage everything from the Bose Music app. Bring all your entertainment to life — music, movies, and TV — in any room you want.
![]() Bose Home Speaker 500 | ![]() SoundTouch 20 Speaker | ![]() SoundTouch 10 Speaker | ![]() SoundTouch 30 Speaker | |
Customer Reviews
|
4.4 out of 5 stars
5,256
|
4.5 out of 5 stars
1,414
|
4.4 out of 5 stars
2,440
|
4.5 out of 5 stars
977
|
Price
| — | $449.00$449.00 | $194.00$194.00 | $595.00$595.00 |
Amazon Alexa
| Built-In | With Alexa Device | With Alexa Device | With Alexa Device |
Performance
| The widest stereo sound | Clear, robust sound | Size-defying sound. | Deep, powerful sound. |
Dimensions
| 8.0” H x 6.7” W x 4.3” D | 7.4" H x 12.4" W x 4.1" D | 8.34" H x 5.56" W x 3.43" D | 9.7" H x 17.1" W x 7.1" D |
Compatible App
| Bose Music NEW | SoundTouch | SoundTouch | SoundTouch |
Multi-room Playback
| Bose smart product | SoundTouch Products Only | SoundTouch Products Only | SoundTouch Products Only |
Display Screen
| Color LCD | Black & white OLED screen | N/A | Black & white OLED screen |
Wi-Fi Music Services
| ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Preset Buttons
| ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Compare with similar items
This Item ![]() Bose Home Speaker 500: Smart Bluetooth Speaker with Alexa Voice Control Built-in, Silver | Recommendations | dummy | dummy | dummy | dummy | |
Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | |
Price | $379.00$379.00 | $219.00$219.00 | $219.00$219.00 | -20% $119.00$119.00 List: $149.00 | -30% $229.00$229.00 List: $329.00 | $399.00$399.00 |
Delivery | — | Get it as soon as Wednesday, Aug 14 | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Aug 13 | — | — | Get it as soon as Saturday, Aug 17 |
Customer Ratings | ||||||
Sound quality | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.6 | 4.7 | 4.5 | 4.7 |
Value for money | 3.8 | 4.5 | 3.8 | 4.7 | — | 4.2 |
Bluetooth connectivity | 3.6 | — | 4.6 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.8 |
Battery life | — | 4.2 | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.5 | 4.7 |
Portability | — | 4.6 | — | 4.8 | 4.8 | 4.6 |
Sold By | Amazon.com | Adorama | Adorama | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | Amazon.com |
power source | Integrated power supply | Battery Powered | Battery Powered | Battery Powered | Battery Powered | Battery Powered |
connectivity tech | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | wireless | Bluetooth, USB | Bluetooth, USB | wireless, wired | Bluetooth |
speaker type | Portable | Multimedia | Soundbar | Portable Speaker | Multimedia | Portable |
mounting type | Wall Mount | Tabletop | Tabletop | Floor Standing | Tabletop Mount | No Mount |
weight | 4.65 pounds | 1.46 pounds | 0.7 kilograms | 1.3 pounds | 2 pounds | 4.89 pounds |
control method | voice | voice | — | application, voice | voice, application | application |
Looking for specific info?
Videos
Videos for this product
1:59
Click to play video
Watch This Before Buying Bose Speaker 500
GoGoHippie➡️
Videos for this product
2:54
Click to play video
Bose vs Notabrick Bluetooth Speaker #thisorthat
GoGoHippie➡️
Videos for this product
1:18
Click to play video
Watch this before you buy! Hear it in action!
ERIC KALTZ
Videos for this product
0:44
Click to play video
Sound quality is superb on this smart speaker !
BoKnows
Videos for this product
0:57
Click to play video
Bose Home Speaker: Set the mood in any room.
Rock City Reviews & Tips
Videos for this product
1:17
Click to play video
Great sound quality and lots of cool features!
✨Real Reviews by Beckie✨
Videos for this product
0:07
Click to play video
Customer Review: Not compatible with Apple Music!
Jake
What's in the box
Product information
Speaker Type | Portable |
---|---|
Special Feature | Wireless |
Recommended Uses For Product | Music |
Compatible Devices | Phones, Tablet |
Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
Controller Type | amazon_alexa, google_assistant |
Color | Silver |
Included Components | Bose Home Speaker 500 |
Product Dimensions | 4.31"D x 6.68"W x 8.01"H |
Item Weight | 4.65 Pounds |
Is Waterproof | FALSE |
Warranty Type | Limited |
Number of Items | 1 |
Control Method | Voice |
Wireless Communication Technology | Bluetooth |
Power Source | Integrated power supply |
Package Type | Standard Packaging |
Number of Batteries | 1 AA batteries required. |
Bluetooth Range | 9 Meters |
Connectivity Protocol | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
UPC | 017817785617 |
Global Trade Identification Number | 00017817785617 |
Manufacturer | Bose Corporation |
Item Weight | 4.65 pounds |
ASIN | B07FD5FZ9P |
Item model number | 795345-1300 |
Batteries | 1 AA batteries required. |
Customer Reviews |
4.4 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #37,175 in Electronics (See Top 100 in Electronics) #1,164 in Portable Bluetooth Speakers |
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
Date First Available | September 20, 2018 |
Country of Origin | Mexico |
Warranty & Support
Feedback
![](https://cdn.statically.io/img/m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51exUPDZyzL._SS75_.jpg)
Bose Home Speaker 500: Smart Bluetooth Speaker with Alexa Voice Control Built-in, Silver
Share:
Found a lower price? Let us know. Although we can't match every price reported, we'll use your feedback to ensure that our prices remain competitive.
Where did you see a lower price?
Fields with an asterisk * are required
Product Description
The Bose home speaker 500 fills any room with powerful sound. Inside the speaker, two custom drivers point in opposite directions to bounce sound off the walls, creating a soundstage wider than any other smart speaker. Built-in voice assistants, like Alexa and the Google Assistant, let you enjoy millions of songs, Internet radio stations, playlists, and more — hands free. All you have to do is say the words, and the music starts playing. When the musician’s playing loud, the Bose home speaker 500 will still hear you. Just under the top is a custom-designed eight-microphone array for superior voice pickup. But control doesn’t stop at just voice - Start and stop the music with the top controls, or manage it all from the Bose music app. When it comes to what you want to hear, there are plenty of options, too. With Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Apple airplay 2 compatibility, play your favorite music services, like Spotify, music, or Apple Music, or play anything from your phone or tablet. You can set up to six different presets for playlists, Internet radio stations, and more. And the color LCD display will show you what’s playing, like current song, station, playlist info, album art, and more.
Brands in this category on Amazon
Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the sound quality and build quality of the speakers. For example, they mention it has a sharp clear bass and the volume is there. That said, some complain about the connectivity issues and limitations. Opinions are mixed on Alexa compatibility, ease of use, and value.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers like the sound quality of the speakers. They say the sound is quite good, excellent, and has sharp clear bass. They also mention that the loudness is there, and the Bluetooth, volume, and other functions function like new. Some say that soft music playing is wonderful and soothing, and that it is a good all-in-one speaker.
"...as loud as the Bose but delivered a clearer, crisper sound with sharp clear Bass.Where the Bose 500 was more mid range and deeper Bass...." Read more
"...Sounds great for a speaker this size...." Read more
"...As others have said the sound is full, has depth & while not stereo, if in front of it almost seems like it...." Read more
"...They sound very good for their size and the 500 can definitely fill a living room with sound. Base is good and everything sounds very clear...." Read more
Customers like the quality of the speakers. They say it has an elegant, classy build quality and is a superior product. They are happy with the quality and price, saying it's durable and has a solid middle.
"...-The look & overall build quality. They are really handsome speakers with a substantial size without being too bulky...." Read more
"This speaker is absolutely stunning to the eye, elegant classy build quality is top tier. It screams BOSE. Not only is it a beautiful speaker...." Read more
"...+ Native support for Amazon Voice app extension (essential)+ Good overall ROICons:-..." Read more
"...Build quality and finish appear to be excellent (black for me)...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the Alexa compatibility of the speakers. Some mention that setup was a piece of cake. Alexa works well, and functions great. However, others say that the Bose 500 doesn't work with Alexa like any of Amazon's Echo Dot, has limited Alexa functionality, and never works properly with Spotify.
"...But it also doesn't always work the first time (such as creating or editing a group)...." Read more
"...It has Bluetooth and Google and Alexa integration that is wonderful...." Read more
"...level ANYTHING doesn't do a thing... so once again, the Bose 500 doesn't work with Alexa like any of Amazon's Echo Dot family of speakers work with..." Read more
"...Spotify connect works flawlessly and alexa cast is decent but tends to lose sync more than normal (its still not great even on echos)...." Read more
Customers have mixed opinions about the ease of use of the speakers. Some find it very easy to set up and use, with no issues with setup. Others say that the setup was frustrating and time consuming.
"...-EQ adjustments in the Bose app. You can change treble and bass on a pretty wide range (-100 to 100, with 0 being default)...." Read more
"...This is a massive oversight considering how poorly implemented some of the other services are through the Bose app...." Read more
"Product works as advertised. Easily to use...." Read more
"...The set-up was frustrating. It took about 30 minutes to update. I downloaded the Bose Music App, registered, and started the update...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the value of the speakers. Some mention it's well worth the money, while others say it'd be a waste of money. Some say the speaker is good, but not great. Overall, customers say it costs a lot for what it is.
"...All in all, I absolutely recommend this speaker. It's a bit on the pricier side compared to some of the other speakers it gets compared to..." Read more
"...Looks great with everything else in the living room.It’s pricey, but so far, well worth the price...." Read more
"...Deezer is bare bones and unless you already have all the playlists saved, it is difficult to use it for any type of music discovery...." Read more
"...Not an impressive app at all especially since it DOES come from Bose and they're a company that tends to boast about superb music quality...." Read more
Customers have connectivity issues with the speakers. They mention that it loses connectivity with the wifi, does not connect via Airplay Wi-Fi, and does not stay connected to Bluetooth devices. Some say that it's hard to connect to their wifi and that it does not always connect to the second speaker. They also say that the speaker does not support local network DLNA services on a NAS.
"...The only issue I had with Sonos is that it does not have Bluetooth.That was a deal breaker, otherwise I would have chosen it over Bose...." Read more
"...I don't see this as a big problem. Connection to wifi sometimes drops out, but I remedy that by restarting the speaker...." Read more
"...We have a reliable internet connection, good WIFI, and the speaker WIFI reception is strong...." Read more
"...the grouping also used to be finicky and would not always connect to the second speaker, but again since the last few updates this seems to have..." Read more
Reviews with images
![Very Happy with this Purchase - Excellent Streaming Speaker](https://cdn.statically.io/img/images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/G/01/x-locale/common/transparent-pixel._V192234675_.gif)
-
Top reviews
Top reviews from the United States
There was a problem filtering reviews right now. Please try again later.
I originally was set on getting a pair of the KEF LSX. Though I've never heard them, after all my research, I am sure they are amazing speakers. I also wanted to get some other less expensive speakers (at least compared to the LSX) for other parts of the house that I could sync to (using Air Play 2). I tested out a lot of options in this price range (and even a bit more expensive, like the Sonos Play 5).
When we were in the process of moving, I decided on and ordered a Home Speaker 500. After using it for a day, I was so impressed by this speaker that I decided to forego the KEF LSX and just use the Bose throughout the house, so I ordered two more. So, for about the price of on set of LSX, I now have awesome speakers throughout my house. I'm sure I sacrificed sound quality by not getting the LSX (and I definitely sacrificed getting stereo sound on a wide soundstage), but, honestly, I love the sound of the Home Speaker 500, so I don't think I need anything that is 'audiophile' grade.
What I Love Most:
-The sound is full and rich. I don't know how to describe it otherwise, but everything I listen to sounds fantastic.
-The speakers can also get really loud without any discernible distortion. I haven't pushed them to their full volume as they are quite loud enough even at 50% or 60%, and the sound really does fill the room (and the next room!).
-The look & overall build quality. They are really handsome speakers with a substantial size without being too bulky. I also appreciate the aluminum finish much more than I expected I would. The aluminum also gives the speaker a really nice heft to it. Nothing about this speaker feels or looks cheap to me (which is partly why it's not a cheap speaker, obviously).
-The screen. I have read reviews that criticize the screen as not useful and not in line with the current aesthetic for speakers. But, honestly, I listen to a lot of playlists on Spotify, and it's nice to be able to see what's playing. And, even when I'm playing stuff I know, I like seeing the album art.
-EQ adjustments in the Bose app. You can change treble and bass on a pretty wide range (-100 to 100, with 0 being default). When we first moved in, we didn't have any rugs down, so the sound was way too bright. A small adjustment in the EQ made a huge difference. Now that we have some rugs down, I've adjusted the EQ again back towards the default, and they continue to sound great. Even though these speakers don't self-tune like some of the other speakers in this class (Sonos, Apple, and Google all do to some extent), the tuning you can do as a user I think will make these speakers work for you in any space. And, the speaker does have a host of microphones, so self-tuning is always something Bose could add in the future.
(Minor) Complaints
-The way groups work is a little different than with Amazon's Echo ecosystem. Instead of creating groups ahead of time, you have to go into the Bose app to create groups ad hoc. So, you can't ask Alexa to play music on a particular group of these Bose speakers. Instead, you have to get music started on one speaker and then create the group you want in the Bose app. Once it's set up and is playing continuously, any music command given to Alexa continues to play on that group. If you stop playing music, the group eventually dissolves. The positive to this is that you can also edit groups (add and remove speakers) on the fly without really interrupting the music. With the Echo ecosystem, I don't think this was possible (except possibly if you were using Spotify Connect with your Echo groups).
-The app and software can be a bit buggy. It always does what I want it to -- eventually. And it doesn't take long to do what I want it to do. But it also doesn't always work the first time (such as creating or editing a group). Also, album art sometimes disappears, replaced by a generic, white musical note. I will say that the more I have used my speakers, the less buggy the system tends to be. Maybe I'm just becoming more proficient at navigating the software's quirks, or maybe Bose is making some updates to the speakers that I am not aware of.
-Bose used two side-firing drivers in this speaker, which is supposed to give a wider soundstage for stereo sound. I don't really hear much stereo in these speakers, even with songs that have a lot of it (such as "Such Great Heights" by The Postal Service). That said, the side-firing speakers do create a more room-filling sound as Bose claims. And, really, similar to the Echo, the sound quality doesn't change a lot no matter where you are in relationship to the speaker (though the little stereo you might get straight on gets lost completely if you are not more or less straight on to the front or back of the speaker).
All in all, I absolutely recommend this speaker. It's a bit on the pricier side compared to some of the other speakers it gets compared to (but not all), but, for what I was looking for, I'm really quite satisfied.
![Customer image](https://cdn.statically.io/img/images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/G/01/x-locale/common/transparent-pixel._V192234675_.gif)
Reviewed in the United States on August 30, 2019
I originally was set on getting a pair of the KEF LSX. Though I've never heard them, after all my research, I am sure they are amazing speakers. I also wanted to get some other less expensive speakers (at least compared to the LSX) for other parts of the house that I could sync to (using Air Play 2). I tested out a lot of options in this price range (and even a bit more expensive, like the Sonos Play 5).
When we were in the process of moving, I decided on and ordered a Home Speaker 500. After using it for a day, I was so impressed by this speaker that I decided to forego the KEF LSX and just use the Bose throughout the house, so I ordered two more. So, for about the price of on set of LSX, I now have awesome speakers throughout my house. I'm sure I sacrificed sound quality by not getting the LSX (and I definitely sacrificed getting stereo sound on a wide soundstage), but, honestly, I love the sound of the Home Speaker 500, so I don't think I need anything that is 'audiophile' grade.
What I Love Most:
-The sound is full and rich. I don't know how to describe it otherwise, but everything I listen to sounds fantastic.
-The speakers can also get really loud without any discernible distortion. I haven't pushed them to their full volume as they are quite loud enough even at 50% or 60%, and the sound really does fill the room (and the next room!).
-The look & overall build quality. They are really handsome speakers with a substantial size without being too bulky. I also appreciate the aluminum finish much more than I expected I would. The aluminum also gives the speaker a really nice heft to it. Nothing about this speaker feels or looks cheap to me (which is partly why it's not a cheap speaker, obviously).
-The screen. I have read reviews that criticize the screen as not useful and not in line with the current aesthetic for speakers. But, honestly, I listen to a lot of playlists on Spotify, and it's nice to be able to see what's playing. And, even when I'm playing stuff I know, I like seeing the album art.
-EQ adjustments in the Bose app. You can change treble and bass on a pretty wide range (-100 to 100, with 0 being default). When we first moved in, we didn't have any rugs down, so the sound was way too bright. A small adjustment in the EQ made a huge difference. Now that we have some rugs down, I've adjusted the EQ again back towards the default, and they continue to sound great. Even though these speakers don't self-tune like some of the other speakers in this class (Sonos, Apple, and Google all do to some extent), the tuning you can do as a user I think will make these speakers work for you in any space. And, the speaker does have a host of microphones, so self-tuning is always something Bose could add in the future.
(Minor) Complaints
-The way groups work is a little different than with Amazon's Echo ecosystem. Instead of creating groups ahead of time, you have to go into the Bose app to create groups ad hoc. So, you can't ask Alexa to play music on a particular group of these Bose speakers. Instead, you have to get music started on one speaker and then create the group you want in the Bose app. Once it's set up and is playing continuously, any music command given to Alexa continues to play on that group. If you stop playing music, the group eventually dissolves. The positive to this is that you can also edit groups (add and remove speakers) on the fly without really interrupting the music. With the Echo ecosystem, I don't think this was possible (except possibly if you were using Spotify Connect with your Echo groups).
-The app and software can be a bit buggy. It always does what I want it to -- eventually. And it doesn't take long to do what I want it to do. But it also doesn't always work the first time (such as creating or editing a group). Also, album art sometimes disappears, replaced by a generic, white musical note. I will say that the more I have used my speakers, the less buggy the system tends to be. Maybe I'm just becoming more proficient at navigating the software's quirks, or maybe Bose is making some updates to the speakers that I am not aware of.
-Bose used two side-firing drivers in this speaker, which is supposed to give a wider soundstage for stereo sound. I don't really hear much stereo in these speakers, even with songs that have a lot of it (such as "Such Great Heights" by The Postal Service). That said, the side-firing speakers do create a more room-filling sound as Bose claims. And, really, similar to the Echo, the sound quality doesn't change a lot no matter where you are in relationship to the speaker (though the little stereo you might get straight on gets lost completely if you are not more or less straight on to the front or back of the speaker).
All in all, I absolutely recommend this speaker. It's a bit on the pricier side compared to some of the other speakers it gets compared to (but not all), but, for what I was looking for, I'm really quite satisfied.
![Customer image](https://cdn.statically.io/img/images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41yqzpM1hIL._SY88.jpg)
![Customer image](https://cdn.statically.io/img/images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/519Z8XpLiSL._SY88.jpg)
![Customer image](https://cdn.statically.io/img/images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51UM+EG+d0L._SY88.jpg)
![Customer image](https://cdn.statically.io/img/images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51t+6X6vXUL._SY88.jpg)
I tried the Sonos - One (Gen 2) and I really do prefer that sound over this Bose 500 .
The Sonos was not as loud as the Bose but delivered a clearer, crisper sound with sharp clear Bass.
Where the Bose 500 was more mid range and deeper Bass.
Both units produced great sounds. The only issue I had with Sonos is that it does not have Bluetooth.
That was a deal breaker, otherwise I would have chosen it over Bose.
The next unit I tried was the Marshall - Uxbridge Smart Speaker and it is a great unit and great sound, but not very much Bass. The smart capabilities are great but however, it is lacking a deep punch in sound.
I tried the Sony XB402M Smart Speaker and simply put-Don't waste your money on it.
It is a great little unit for what it does but does not compare in sound quality to Bose or Sonos and falls short in bass by an immeasurable amount.
I then tried this Bose 500-I was amazed at how great it sounds. It has Bluetooth and Google and Alexa integration that is wonderful. Yet, like most other 3rd party smart speakers, you don't get 100pct of the smart capabilities but the only one I found is asking Alexa to connect to my phone. It won't do that on the Bose and only tested it on Sonos and Sonos lacked even more abilities than the Bose.
When using Google as the smart assistant, there was no issue with asking it connect to my phone.
In overall sound, the two top choices are the Sonos and Bose. Until Sonos updates to Bluetooth, I would pass it up and choose the Bose.
Also, there are no issues of it connecting to Wi-Fi as people report. A lot of tech issues are a result of people not knowing what to do. They may be on an unstable wifi and having spotty connection issues, etc. So many variables to consider. Don't buy into those negative reviews on connections for this Bose unit, It is more likely their user error.
Top reviews from other countries
![](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/S/amazon-avatars-global/default._CR0,0,1024,1024_SX48_.png)
![](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/S/amazon-avatars-global/default._CR0,0,1024,1024_SX48_.png)
![](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/S/amazon-avatars-global/default._CR0,0,1024,1024_SX48_.png)
![](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/S/amazon-avatars-global/default._CR0,0,1024,1024_SX48_.png)
![Customer image](https://cdn.statically.io/img/images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/G/01/x-locale/common/transparent-pixel._V192234675_.gif)
![](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/S/amazon-avatars-global/default._CR0,0,1024,1024_SX48_.png)
Reviewed in Mexico on March 4, 2024
![Customer image](https://cdn.statically.io/img/m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71AfXjtkPOL._SY88.jpg)
![](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/S/amazon-avatars-global/default._CR0,0,1024,1024_SX48_.png)