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Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.

What reviewers think

Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.

What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.

Manufacturer details

  • Total Frequency Response: 100 Hz → 22,000 Hz
  • Nominal Impedance: 8 ohms
  • Sensitivity: 83 dB/1W/1m
  • Lower and Upper -3dB Limits: 115 Hz → 20,000 Hz
  • Recommended Amplifier Power: 10 watts → 100 watts
  • Height: 7" (17.78 cm)
  • Width: 5.5" (13.97 cm)
  • Depth: 8.4" (21.34 cm)
  • Weight: 3.25 lbs (1.47 kg)
  • Driver Complement: (1) 3.5" (8.89 cm) Dynamic Balance driver with extended motor structure, composite cone and butyl rubber surround - Midrange, (1) 0.75" (1.91 cm) Dynamic Balance polyurethane tweeter with neodymium magnet
  • Waterproof Rating: IPX66
Can be planted in your landscaping, hung from your ceiling or the eaves, or installed anywhere you want to mix great sound with the great outdoors
Manufacturer Site

Brand highlights

Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:

  • They stand out for incorporating technologies typically found in their higher-end lines, such as ring radiator tweeters and Power Port designs, into more accessible product lines like the Monitor and Signature Elite series.
  • Polk specifically designs many of their speakers, especially in-wall and outdoor models, to be versatile and weather-resistant, making them suitable for a variety of listening environments beyond traditional living rooms.

Monitor XT70

  • Positioning: The highest performing loudspeaker in the Monitor XT line.
  • Description: Offers powerful, high-resolution sound with dual 6.5" Dynamic Balance woofers and 8" passive bass radiators, making it ideal for larger rooms. Compared to the Signature Elite series, focuses on delivering impactful bass and clear highs, suitable for those who want a high-value option for music and movies without the need for advanced features like Dolby Atmos compatibility.

Signature Elite ES55

  • Positioning: A high-quality floor-standing tower speaker in the Signature Elite series.
  • Description: Provides high-resolution, room-filling sound with dual 6.5" Dynamic Balance woofers and Terylene dome tweeter. Unlike the Monitor XT70, offers a more refined sound with Hi-Res Audio certification, appealing to those who prioritize audio detail and clarity over sheer power.

Signature Elite ES60

  • Positioning: The highest-performing loudspeaker in the Signature Elite series.
  • Description: Delivers cinematic sound with three 6.5" Dynamic Balance woofers and Hi-Res Audio certified tweeter. Offers a more immersive experience compared to the ES55, with enhanced bass and a broader soundstage.

Reserve R700

  • Positioning: A premium large floor-standing tower speaker in the Reserve series.
  • Description: Combines dual 8" woofers and a 6.5" Turbine Cone woofer for massive impact and clarity. Stands out from the Signature Elite series with its advanced Power Port 2.0 and X-Port technology, providing cleaner bass and more defined midrange.

Legend L600

  • Positioning: A flagship floor-standing tower speaker in the Legend series.
  • Description: Features dual 7" drivers and a 5.25" Turbine Cone woofer, offering exceptional imaging and detail for medium-to-large rooms. Surpasses the Reserve R700 with its Pinnacle Ring Radiator tweeter and enhanced Power Port, providing ultra-clear highs and better bass.

Legend L800

  • Positioning: The true flagship large floor-standing tower speaker in the Legend series.
  • Description: Uses SDA-PRO technology for lifelike stereo imaging, making it the most revealing speaker Polk has ever made. Offers a more immersive experience than the L600, with dual 10" drivers and advanced stereo separation.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
299
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
16
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
76
Founding Year
1972

Our take on the brand

Polk’s been a major player in the audio world since the ’70s, though they don’t always get the same attention from hi-fi reviewers as some other brands. But they know their niche—mass-market, entry-level products that perform way better than you’d expect for the price. Their R200 model, for example, gets called one of the best under $1,000. If you’re looking for solid performance without spending a fortune, Polk’s stuff is hard to beat.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

What's your approach to customer support?

What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

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From our interview with
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Brand Page

What if you spend more?

Product image
Focal
Theva Surround
649
649
/
6
Reviews
Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Sweet and detailed audio performance with clear instrumental separation and expansive dimensionality
  • Warm and full-bodied bass and midrange
  • Clear yet 'mellow' treble, creating a pleasing sound signature
  • Accurate sound that doesn't do much to color the recording, so listeners get a balanced presentation of the source content
  • Good level of dynamic range for reasonably sized bookshelf speakers, and they can get louder than expected for their size/price class

Product Considerations

  • The laid-back sound may occasionally obscure some definition
  • The speakers run on the cooler side of things, never becoming too indulgent in any aspect and instead providing a sound that is accurate and slightly pulled back, but never muted or lifeless
  • Asymmetry of the phase coherence of their vertical lobe can be a slight problem for anyone listening under the tweeter axis
  • Does not feel as substantial as some other speakers in their price class

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Focal Vestia No. 1: Theva offers a lot of what makes the Vestia No. 1 great while saving money, but is not as immediately striking in detail or treble extension
  • Vs Bowers & Wilkins 606 S3: Theva is more compact and easier to place, but doesn't look as premium
  • Vs Polk Legend Series L100: Theva has a more laid-back sound profile, making it a better listen in most cases, while the L100 presents a more precise center image

Takeaway: The Theva No. 1 is a great speaker for enjoying detailed and smooth sound without harshness. It's a good option for different types of content, from music to movies, and is especially suited for smaller spaces.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Dali
Alteco C-1
600
600
/
3
Reviews

The DALI ALTECO C-1 is a true multipurpose speaker. It adds Atmos, DTS-X and Auro-3D height information to an existing surround setup, and is a discreet on-wall solution for a stereo installation.Dual Sound ModeThe dual sound mode offers flexible placement. Select 'UP' for soft, downward sound dispersion or 'DOWN' for close listening.Wood Fibre ConesOur low-loss drivers combine low-mass paper cones with wood fibre for an uneven surface that eliminates resonance and reveals every detail.Up-FiringWhen placed on top of front or rear speakers, the angular design is perfect for transmitting Dolby Atmos, DTS-X or Auro-3D surround sound height information.Soft Dome TweeterThe ultra lightweight, weaved fabric dome tweeter offers best-in-class resolution with extended frequency response, wide dispersion and low colouration.

DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Designed to deliver delicate Atmos sounds and add height to the surround sound experience
  • Brilliantly built and seem built to last
  • Does an outstanding job in reproducing a cinematic feel
  • They are full-bodied and an easy and engaging listen
  • Can be used discreetly on your living room wall while providing an exceptional stereo listening experience when paired with a subwoofer

Product Considerations

  • With the vinyl wrap, it looks a little bit like Ikea furniture, so it may not be the best option for a classy looking system
  • Speaker terminals use a push fit spring clamp system for very thin wire, which can be annoying
  • When used on top of floor standers, they do not sound as good as when wall-mounted
  • Dolby Atmos content availability may be lacking

Takeaway: The Alteco C1 is a well-built speaker that adds a cinematic feel to a home theatre experience. It is a versatile speaker that can be used in different ways and is a good value for the price.

Video review

Our take on the brand

DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Monitor
SoundFrame 1 (On-wall)
686
686
/
2
Reviews
Monitor Audio is an independently owned hifi brand that has earned multiple Editors Choice awards for their Silver Series speakers, which feature proprietary driver designs. Their speakers are distinguished by unique technologies like the MPD tweeter and C-CAM drivers, which provide exceptional clarity while resisting distortion and listener fatigue.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Smooth, spacious sound with good weight
  • Excellent build and finish quality
  • Discreet and stylish design, blending easily with room décor
  • Slim cabinets make them easy to hang on the wall
  • Driver arrangement ensures excellent imaging, even when speakers are mounted high

Product Considerations

  • Midrange colouration can harm timing
  • Bass is more limited compared to some rivals due to the sealed-box design
  • Can become a little muddled with complex rhythms
  • Without grilles, they sport a stark, industrial look

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • When compared to rivals such as PMC's Wafer 2, the SoundFrames have the most limited bass
  • SoundFrames are better than the KEF T205 system

Takeaway: The Monitor Audio SoundFrame is a stylish and innovative speaker system that delivers impressive sound quality despite its slim design. It's a great option for those who want a system that blends seamlessly with their décor without compromising on performance.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Monitor Audio is an independently owned hifi brand that has earned multiple Editors Choice awards for their Silver Series speakers, which feature proprietary driver designs. Their speakers are distinguished by unique technologies like the MPD tweeter and C-CAM drivers, which provide exceptional clarity while resisting distortion and listener fatigue.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Monitor
Apex A10
750
750
/
3
Reviews
Monitor Audio is an independently owned hifi brand that has earned multiple Editors Choice awards for their Silver Series speakers, which feature proprietary driver designs. Their speakers are distinguished by unique technologies like the MPD tweeter and C-CAM drivers, which provide exceptional clarity while resisting distortion and listener fatigue.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Intricately detailed, articulate, and powerful sound across the soundstage
  • Astonishing build quality with robust and weighty die-cast aluminium enclosures and a luxurious finish
  • The Apex system delivers audiophile standard sound quality without making huge demands on living space
  • The inert enclosures enable the Apex to deliver an astonishingly fast and detailed sound
  • High frequencies are smooth, speech is clear, and the rear soundstage is expansive

Product Considerations

  • Expensive compared to normal compact systems
  • The AW12 subwoofer is quite heavy despite its compact dimensions

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Apex uses the same tech as Monitor Audio's Silver RX range, but it is 'distilled' down to fit a more compact cabinet size
  • Apex is in a different league than other satellite systems, offering a level of sound quality not typically associated with satellite speakers

Takeaway: The Apex system offers detailed and powerful sound, with an astonishing build quality. It is a great choice for those seeking audiophile-level sound in a compact and stylish package.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Monitor Audio is an independently owned hifi brand that has earned multiple Editors Choice awards for their Silver Series speakers, which feature proprietary driver designs. Their speakers are distinguished by unique technologies like the MPD tweeter and C-CAM drivers, which provide exceptional clarity while resisting distortion and listener fatigue.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

SVS
Ultra Evolution Elevation
449
/
Released
2024
When SVS first launched the Prime Elevation speaker, it turned the home theater world on its ear by delivering a direct radiating Dolby Atmos height effects speaker that vastly outperformed any of the conventional "ceiling bounce" models and in-wall speakers. Since that time many brands tried to copy the approach, but none could deliver the total package of performance and versatility. For this reason, it emerged as one of the most popular home theater speakers in the world paired with all different brands. Ultra Evolution Elevation is a larger, higher fidelity version that unleashes greater dynamic output and deeper low frequency extension.
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SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • The Ultra Elevation speakers offer a more substantial and impressive presence compared to smaller speakers
  • They have magnetic grills, which are convenient and prevent scratching the cabinet
  • They maintain the neutral SVS voicing, ensuring they blend well with previous Ultra and Prime series speakers
  • The sound is refined and neutral, allowing listeners to focus on the music without the speakers drawing attention to themselves

Product Considerations

  • The speaker cable terminals are flipped, which might require shorter or 90-degree banana plugs depending on the mounting
  • The Ultra Elevation speakers are heavier, requiring secure mounting—preferably anchored rather than relying solely on drywall screws
  • These are supporting speakers and still require dual matching subwoofers for the best sound experience

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Ultra Elevations are bigger, heavier, and have a better driver and offset rear port compared to the Prime Elevations

Takeaway: The Ultra Elevation speakers are a worthwhile upgrade that integrates well into existing SVS systems to complete the sound. These speakers deliver refined, neutral audio, making them a delightful addition to any home theater setup.

Video review

Our take on the brand

SVS is a hifi brand known for its subwoofers that feature dual 8-inch voice coils and 17-inch drivers, delivering deep bass with precise control through their force-balanced woofer array design. Their Ultra Evolution series uses diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeters and acoustically centered time alignment cabinet architecture to ensure all sound reaches listeners' ears simultaneously for a coherent soundstage.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Polk
Reserve R900
385
/
Released
2021
Add R900 height modules to access an IMAX-enhanced world of multidimensional sound. Its unique design means that it can sit atop other Reserve Series speakers or be mounted to the wall, unlocking the Dolby Atmos and DTS:X capabilities of the Reserve Series.
Check Amazon
Polk’s been a major player in the audio world since the ’70s, though they don’t always get the same attention from hi-fi reviewers as some other brands. But they know their niche—mass-market, entry-level products that perform way better than you’d expect for the price. Their R200 model, for example, gets called one of the best under $1,000. If you’re looking for solid performance without spending a fortune, Polk’s stuff is hard to beat.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Delivers dynamic and immersive sound at a budget-friendly price
  • Shares advanced drivers with Polk's flagship Legend series
  • Impressive build quality for the price
  • Crisp, near full-range performance

Product Considerations

  • Revealing sound can be slightly bright with some sources
  • Speaker cabinets lack the lavish construction and wood-veneer finishes found in the Legend series

Takeaway: The Reserve series brings the advanced tech of Polk's high-end Legend series to a more affordable price point, offering great sound and build quality. This makes it a worthwhile option for listeners seeking a premium experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Polk’s been a major player in the audio world since the ’70s, though they don’t always get the same attention from hi-fi reviewers as some other brands. But they know their niche—mass-market, entry-level products that perform way better than you’d expect for the price. Their R200 model, for example, gets called one of the best under $1,000. If you’re looking for solid performance without spending a fortune, Polk’s stuff is hard to beat.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Polk
Monitor XT90
199
/
Released
2021
Raise your home theater to new heights. The Monitor XT90 fits atop the Monitor XT20, MXT60, MXT70 (or wall mounts) to enhance movies and games in Dolby Atmos and DTS:X with dramatic 3D sound. Hear planes flying overhead, special FX, ambience and more for a truly immersive experience.
Check Amazon
Polk’s been a major player in the audio world since the ’70s, though they don’t always get the same attention from hi-fi reviewers as some other brands. But they know their niche—mass-market, entry-level products that perform way better than you’d expect for the price. Their R200 model, for example, gets called one of the best under $1,000. If you’re looking for solid performance without spending a fortune, Polk’s stuff is hard to beat.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Offers a clever and affordable solution for Dolby Atmos support
  • Designed to sit perfectly on top of Monitor MXT20 bookshelf speakers and MXT60 & MXT70 floor-standing speakers, but can also be wall-mounted
  • Adds a vertical axis to the sound, bringing immersive audio to the home
  • Offers flexibility to build a custom home audio system

Product Considerations

  • Sound is meaningless when tested alone, requires a larger system
  • Audio lacks pinpoint accuracy in terms of building a 360-degree soundstage, which is common for upfiring speakers

Takeaway: The Monitor XT90 height speakers bring immersive 3D sound to the home without costing too much or making setup too complicated. They are a good option for anyone wanting more control over building their own home theater sound system.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Polk’s been a major player in the audio world since the ’70s, though they don’t always get the same attention from hi-fi reviewers as some other brands. But they know their niche—mass-market, entry-level products that perform way better than you’d expect for the price. Their R200 model, for example, gets called one of the best under $1,000. If you’re looking for solid performance without spending a fortune, Polk’s stuff is hard to beat.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
KEF
Q4 Meta
499
/
Released
2024
The slender and sleek Q4 Meta is a highly versatile on-wall speaker that can be used as left, centre, and right (LCR) speaker, or as a surround speaker. Featuring a 5.25" 12th generation Uni-Q driver array with MAT™, the HiFi speaker delivers an expansive, immersive soundscape without taking up valuable floor space.
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KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • The reviewer liked the Q4 so much that they bought two more
  • The reviewer was impressed with the Q4s
  • Rated down to 42 Hertz in-room response, the port provides a fuller bodied sound
  • It can be used as a LCR (left, center, right) speaker, making it versatile for different channels
  • The driver is very much the same as in the KEF R11s as well, promising timbre matching will be no problem

Product Considerations

  • The reviewer wishes the port was underneath, so it was more hidden when hanging it vertically
  • The reviewer wishes KEF would make a custom grill to match the R11s

Takeaway: The Q4 sounds really good and is impressive as a center channel, performing bigger than it looks. Its ability to be mounted and act as different channels allows it to be a very versatile piece of equipment.

Video review

Our take on the brand

KEF's signature Uni-Q technology places the tweeter in the center of the woofer to create a single point source for sound, while their Metamaterial Absorption Technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the driver. Their Music Integrity Engine corrects timing errors in the speaker crossover, and their Shadow Flare technology reduces diffraction for improved detail and clarity in sound reproduction.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Heco
Ambient Line 11 F
349
/
Released
Schon das kleinste Modell der Ambient-Baureihe bietet alle typischen Heco-Qualitäten. Mit Fluktus-Hochtöner und einem Tiefmitteltöner mit Kraftpapier hat sie klanglich alle Gene der Familie und mit gerade mal 30 cm Gehäusehöhe verwandelt sie schnell und unauffällig jeden Raum in eine akustische Oase.
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Heco is a hifi speaker brand known for its unique Fluktus tweeter design that combines multiple horns in a single structure for even sound dispersion across frequencies. Their speakers use German-made wool fibers in Kraft paper cones and feature a distinctive polished resin cabinet design in their Aurora series, blending vintage-inspired technologies with modern advancements while remaining easy to drive with modest amplifiers.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Designed to be mounted on a wall, saving space
  • Simple mounting system and easy speaker wire attachment
  • All models use the same speaker components, allowing for mixing and matching within a home theater setup
  • Features the Fluctus tweeter for even response across all frequencies and open, effortless sound
  • Uses a Kraft paper cone for mid-range and woofer components, made from renewable forests and wool fibers

Product Considerations

  • The Ambient 11F does not go as low in the bass as the larger Ambient models

Takeaway: The HEIKO Ambient Series offers great sound without taking up floor space and can be easily integrated into a home theater system or used in various other applications. The consistent speaker components and design make them a versatile and visually appealing choice.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Heco is a hifi speaker brand known for its unique Fluktus tweeter design that combines multiple horns in a single structure for even sound dispersion across frequencies. Their speakers use German-made wool fibers in Kraft paper cones and feature a distinctive polished resin cabinet design in their Aurora series, blending vintage-inspired technologies with modern advancements while remaining easy to drive with modest amplifiers.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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