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.
All
Legend L900
reviews
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Total Pieces: 2
- Height: 9.84" (24.99 cm)
- Width: 7.01" (17.81 cm)
- Depth: 3.3" (8.38 cm)
- Weight (each): 3.3 lbs (1.5 kg)
- Driver Complement: (1) 0.75" (1.91 cm) Pinnacle Ring Radiator - Tweeter, (1) 4" (10.16 cm) Turbine Cone - Mid/Woofer
- Total Frequency Response: 90 Hz → 40,000 Hz
- Nominal Impedance Range: 2.8 ohms → 4 ohms
- Sensitivity: 86 dB (1 watt @ 1 meter)
- Lower and Upper -3dB Limits: 150 Hz → 30,000 Hz
- Type: 2-way
- Peak Power Handling: 100 watts
- Tweeter/Midrange Crossover Frequency: 2000 Hz
- Power Handling (per channel): 30 watts → 100 watts
- Warranty: 5 years (non-transferable)
Description
The Legend L900 Height Module is Dolby Atmos certified and designed to meet DTS:X specification. Traditional height speakers and toppers orient their tweeter and woofer vertically, resulting in a small "sweet spot" and can leave you underwhelmed. The L900 Height Module's horizontal orientation ensures both the phase and time alignment for the tweeter and the woofer deliver a large "sweet spot" for a truly immersive experience.
Designed to deliver the 3D audio found in Dolby Atmos, Dolby Atmos height Virtualization, DTS, DTS:X, DTS Virtual:X, and IMAX enhanced soundtracks. Seamlessly integrates into the L600 and L800 floor standing loudspeakers.
Release Timeline
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.
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Select product comparisons
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
$501-$1,000
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.
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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?
What other products pair best with yours?
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Polk
All of the Brand's Used Products
What if you spend more?
KEF
R3 Meta
2430
2430
/
18
Reviews
R3 Meta redefines bookshelf speaker’s performance. Sharing the same drivers as the range-topping R11 Meta, the R3 Meta is a true three-way design. It has a 12th generation Uni-Q® driver array with MAT™ and a powerful 6.5” hybrid aluminium bass driver that pushes performance to new extremes.
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.
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Product Strengths
- Remarkably precise, unusually musical, and vivid sound, creating an open, inviting sound and bringing superb clarity and resolution to music
- Wide, airy, and holographic soundstage with excellent directivity, spreading reflections evenly for a consistent sound experience even when not in the 'sweet spot'
- Innovative Meta Material Absorption Technology (MAT) absorbs 99% of unwanted sound coming from the rear of the tweeter, leading to improved clarity, precision, and detail in the high frequencies—and better overall composure when the mix gets complicated
- A dedicated woofer handles the bass, allowing the coaxial system to focus on the important midrange without interference, which results in improved bass performance and power handling
- Neutrality and balanced frequency response, combined with excellent linearity, makes it very suitable for equalization, allowing users to adjust the sound to their preferences
Product Considerations
- The bass, while tight and tuneful, might not provide the 'gut punch' or chest-thumping experience some listeners prefer, and a subwoofer is recommended for those seeking more pronounced low-end dynamics
- The treble response, while detailed and airy, may sound a bit bright when the speaker is aimed directly at the listener (on-axis), and a slight toe-out (5-10 degrees) is recommended to relax the high frequencies
- Some reviewers note that they may sound a little flat or leaner at very low listening volumes, excelling more when given some 'juice' and volume
- The piano black finish, while beautiful, is prone to fingerprints and requires care to maintain its appearance
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. LS50 Meta: Considered a better, more complete speaker with a more balanced presentation from top to bottom—and a more fleshed-out sound
- Vs. Bowers & Wilkins 705 S3: Puts the treble on a much tighter leash, while the 705 S3 can come on as just too much in that lower treble region
- Vs. Buchardt S400 Mark II: Is leaner, airier, and more spatial, while the Buchardt is warmer, thicker, and has more bass punch
- Vs. Revel M106: The Revel M106's directivity is nowhere near as good as the Kef R3 meta
Takeaway: The KEF R3 Meta is a well-rounded and high-performing loudspeaker, offering a detailed and balanced sound signature with excellent imaging capabilities. It is a great choice for those seeking a neutral and engaging listening experience.
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.
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PSB
Alpha iQ
1299
1299
/
18
Reviews
Canada's PSB Speakers combine psychoacoustic research with natural listening preferences to create a true-to-nature sound philosophy, accurately reproducing audio as originally recorded. Through collaboration with acoustic research facilities, including the National Research Council of Canada, they enhance their speaker designs using extensive measurement data.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Highly accurate sound with surprising dynamic and bass abilities
- Intuitive BluOS app provides access to many streaming services, multi-room control, and customisation options
- Wide range of connectivity options including HDMI eARC, phono inputs, USB, Wi-Fi, and aptX HD Bluetooth
Product Considerations
- BluOS app required for setup and primary use, no dedicated remote control is provided
- BluOS app can be quirky, and there are potential setup difficulties and HDMI connectivity issues
- Lacks room EQ features for near-wall or desktop placement, and doesn't have enough output for larger rooms without a subwoofer
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs SVS Prime Wireless Pro, the Alpha iQ provides a deeper soundstage and more filled-in sound
- Vs Q Acoustics's Q Active 200, the Alpha iQ delivers greater sense of scale
- Vs Bowers & Wilkins Panorama 3, the Alpha iQ provides more transparent sound and better dynamic range
- Vs ELAC Debut ConneX, the Alpha iQ offers wider-ranging connectivity and a dedicated control app
- Vs KEF LSX II, the Alpha iQ has a feature-rich app and multi-room audio skills
- Vs Alpha AM3, the Alpha iQ is physically larger, with more rated power and wireless connection between speakers
Takeaway: The PSB Alpha iQ is a compact, all-in-one streaming speaker system with excellent sound quality and versatility, making it a great addition to smaller spaces. Its multiple connectivity options and simple setup allow one to easily enjoy music from various sources.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Canada's PSB Speakers combine psychoacoustic research with natural listening preferences to create a true-to-nature sound philosophy, accurately reproducing audio as originally recorded. Through collaboration with acoustic research facilities, including the National Research Council of Canada, they enhance their speaker designs using extensive measurement data.
Product Page
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Sonus Faber
Omnia
1999
1999
/
18
Reviews
Relentless artistry combined with cutting-edge innovation. Omnia's new technology brings the sensation of live music to every listening space.
THE FULLACOUSTIC PACKAGE
Omnia elevates the listening experience to new heights, combining relentless artistry with cutting-edge innovation. The new technology brings the sensation of live music to every listening space.
A multi-dimensional approach
to immersive sound.
Great Power, Great Nuances
7 interior speakers, limitless sound. The advanced signal processing of Omnia delivers unmatched sonic nuances at 490 watts of power.
Crescendo™ technology by Sonus faber
Developed in-house at Sonus faber, this advanced signal processing system leverages on the two full range side to deliver next-level sonic dimensionality and immersivity.
SENSO™ TECHNOLOGY BY SONUS FABER
Omnia's tactile illuminated wooden top panel
allows users to control settings directly on the device.
THE MANY FACETS OF OMNIA
Omnia is born to be displayed. Its shapes fully embody Sonus faber's devotion to Italian heritage, for a design that enhances every environment.
Sonus Faber is an Italian hifi brand that designs speakers with unique lute-shaped cabinets inspired by traditional violin-making, featuring wood and leather materials to achieve a natural sound. Their speakers incorporate distinctive elements like cork chambers for midrange drivers and asymmetrical driver baskets that mimic natural forms, with each unit being individually tuned by ear to ensure tonal perfection.
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Product Strengths
- Elegant and luxurious design embodies the classic Sonus Faber look with a curvaceous shape, walnut wood exterior, and appealing aesthetics
- Impressive soundstage and room-filling performance–the Crescendo technology creates a wide and immersive soundstage that exceeds the physical size of the speaker
- Good sound quality, with solid, full, and tight bass, along with clear midrange and vocals
- Setup is relatively easy and user-friendly, with intuitive controls and compatibility with various streaming services
- Extensive wireless connectivity (AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, aptX HD Bluetooth, and Roon) and wired options (HDMI ARC, Ethernet, switchable phono/line input via dongle)
Product Considerations
- Price is expensive compared to other wireless speakers on the market
- Awkward placement of back-panel connectors, as they are buried in the base, making them difficult to access
- Treble might be a little too soft and lacking some presence for some listeners
- There is no bespoke Omnia control app
- Some users reported compatibility problems with Android devices
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Naim Mu-so 2, the Omnia has a wider, more spacious soundstage and unrivalled clarity, while the Mu-so 2 has a warmer tone and superior sense of musical cohesion
- The Omnia's curves remind some of the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin
Takeaway: The Sonus Faber Omnia is a stylish and well-equipped wireless speaker that offers an immersive listening experience for smaller spaces. It is a good choice for audiophiles who appreciate both aesthetics and high-quality sound and are willing to pay a premium.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Sonus Faber is an Italian hifi brand that designs speakers with unique lute-shaped cabinets inspired by traditional violin-making, featuring wood and leather materials to achieve a natural sound. Their speakers incorporate distinctive elements like cork chambers for midrange drivers and asymmetrical driver baskets that mimic natural forms, with each unit being individually tuned by ear to ensure tonal perfection.
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Q Acoustics
Concept 50
2199
2199
/
16
Reviews
Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Fit and finish plus performance that is a bargain for around $3k/pair
- Gelcore cabinet construction minimizes unwanted sound energy from resonance and vibrations
- A tweeter that is hermetically sealed and mechanically isolated (floating) from the baffle provides lower distortion
- Size, weight, and richness of tone belies their size, with a wider baffle to each loudspeaker pointing at you
- A mild sound throws emphasis back to the midrange that in itself seems almost holographic, as well as deeply insightful in a gentle but revealing manner
Product Considerations
- A medium to large size room is required to shine, otherwise the bass will dominate
- Flaws in poor recordings can be revealed due to their detail and accuracy—warts and all performance
- The top-end is a little soft and gentle—classic BBC like—which may require amps with some zing to compensate
- Listeners seeking absolute detail or transparency might not be satisfied because of Q Acoustics' house sound that massages treble and plumps up bass and lower mid
- They don't go sub-40Hz deep, frequency response is rated at 42 Hz – 30 kHz (-6dB)
Takeaway: The Q Acoustics Concept 50 offers excellent value with its blend of innovative design and high-quality sound, making it a great choice for enjoying music with a sense of depth and engagement. The Concept 50s are easy to listen to and fun.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Q Acoustics, a popular entry-level hifi brand among professional reviewers, offers excellent performance at affordable prices.
Product Page
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What competes at this price?
Polk
Reserve R200
525
/
Released
2021
As the larger bookshelf speaker in the series, the R200 excels in delivering extra bass power thanks to its 6.5" turbine cone woofer and larger cabinetry. Perfect for listening in a stereo pair, as part of a front stage, or as surround components in a larger system. Named "Bookshelf Loudspeaker of The Year" by The Absolute Sound.
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
- Clean, neutral sound signature with some character, making it suitable for various music genres and movies
- Very strong center image
- Able to get loud without distorting in small to mid-sized rooms
- Excellent build quality for the price point, looks more expensive than it is
- Good soundstage, wide and spacious, allows the speakers to disappear into the music
- Placement is important because bass response is impacted by wall proximity, bass can be overpowering if placed too close to a wall
Product Considerations
- High-frequency performance is more subdued compared to its bass, potentially sounding a little dull if you prefer a brighter speaker
- A bit of volume is needed to come alive dynamically—not great for low-volume listening
- Speaker stands are required to get the tweeter above ear level, vertical off-axis response suffers if the tweeter is below ear level
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Versus the Bowers & Wilkins 600 Series, the R200 is better, as the Bowers & Wilkins 600 Series is over-the-top and fatiguing
- Versus the Sonus Faber Lumina 2, the R200 is more neutral, while Lumina 2 is more articulate but not as kind to all types of music, with the R200 being the better all-rounder
- Versus the ELAC Debut Reference, the reviewer had more fun with the R200
- Versus the Klipsch 600m, the R200 is more neutral, though the reviewer admits they might choose the Klipsch for its captivating live quality
- Versus the Wharfedale Diamond 12.1, the R200 and 12.1 have a similar sound signature
Takeaway: The Polk Audio Reserve R200 is a well-rounded loudspeaker suitable for both music and home theater, offering a neutral sound signature with good bass and a wide soundstage. It represents excellent value, delivering performance that rivals speakers at a higher price point.
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.
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Polk
Reserve R700
769
/
Released
2021
The R700 offers uncompromising sonic performance. This full throttle loudspeaker adds two 8" woofers to deliver massive impact with striking audio clarity and detail. Perfect for use as a reference stereo pair or as the cornerstone of the ultimate home cinema.
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.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Neutral and accurate sound reproduction across the frequency range, with an almost complete lack of coloration
- Bass extends deep enough that a subwoofer may not be necessary for some listeners
- The ring radiator tweeter provides airy highs without being fatiguing, pairing well with a variety of music genres
- Produces a wide and transformative soundstage with excellent separation, detail, and center imaging
- Well-made and solid construction, exceeding expectations for its price point
Product Considerations
- The feet cannot be removed because they are part of the design
- Requires a competent amplifier with solid power (100 watts or more) to perform at its best
- There's an imbalance in the horizontal radiation pattern between the midrange and the tweeter, where the tweeter flares out
- The high frequency needs some work, compared to other tower speakers
- Relatively high compression in the high frequencies at the highest output, potentially affecting dynamic capability at very loud volumes
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Klipsch RP-8000F: The R700 is technically better and a better all-around performer, though some may prefer the more dynamic and punchy sound of the Klipsch
- Vs Monitor Audio Silver 500 7G: The R700 is every bit the 500's equal—quite possibly its superior—possessing a more present and fleshed-out midrange and more linear-based response
- Vs KLH Model 5: The R700 has a more unified look, with the KLH Model 5 sounding more forward and lean in the midrange
- Vs KEF R5 Meta: The R700 has better bass extension, but needs more distance from the wall
Takeaway: The Polk Audio R700 is an excellent loudspeaker for the money that provides balanced and accurate sound. It is a solid, well-built speaker suitable for various listening scenarios.
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.
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Polk
Reserve R600
595
/
Released
2021
The R600 represents the ultimate in performance and value, delivering killer flagship sound at an unbeatable price. With the addition of two 6.5" turbine cone woofers and Power Port® 2.0, the R600 perfectly balances sonic impact with rich and detailed audio.
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
- Same one-inch pinnacle ring radiator tweeter and 6 ½ inch Turbine Cone midrange driver as the higher-end R700.
- Impressive soundstage and imaging.
- From 200Hz upwards the R600s are as neutral as one could ask for.
- Offers a more forward in-room presence in the upper mid-range to treble, which is great for intelligibility.
- Well-engineered, properly designed and voiced loudspeaker.
Product Considerations
- Lacks the dual 8-inch woofers of the R700, resulting in less weight in the low end.
- R600s are not the R700s equal.
- A subwoofer might be needed to round out the performance, especially in larger rooms.
- Can be a bit hefty at the top end.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs R700: The R600 has more mid-range and treble presence, but the R700 is better overall.
- Vs Klipsch 8000f: The R600s are more composed, while the 8000f have more weight and are dynamically interesting at lower volumes
Takeaway: The Polk Audio Reserve R600 is a well-designed speaker that provides very good sound for the price and offers a great experience with a wide soundstage and impressive imaging. Its neutral sound and solid build quality make it an enjoyable option for many listeners.
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.
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Polk
Signature Elite ES60
549
/
Released
2021
Enjoy movies, music and gaming with high-resolution, room-filling, cinematic sound. Polk's highest-performing Signature Elite loudspeaker is Hi-Res Audio Certified, Dolby Atmos & DTS:X Compatible, and features a four-driver Dynamically Balanced acoustic array, precision crossovers and Power Port bass enhancement.
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
- Forward and sharp sound is produced, with strong mid-range, vocals, and snare drums, making it very direct
- Pairs well with warm-sounding amplifiers like the Parasound 2125 V.2 THX Ultra II
- Has a wide soundstage, allowing sound to fill a larger room
- Good value, especially when on sale
- Feels solid and well-made
Product Considerations
- Can be too sharp or bright-sounding, especially with certain types of music or when paired with bright amplifiers
- Benefits from being paired with a warm-sounding amplifier or using an equalizer to reduce the treble
- Might not be the best choice for small to medium-sized rooms
- Vocals can be a little edgier than the Elite version
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Signature has stronger mid-range and vocals compared to the Polk Signature Elite, the Elite is more refined and has better bass
- The Polk Reserve R700 is better overall, but the Polk Signature is a cheaper alternative
- Has a similar vocal projection sound to the Bowers & Wilkins 603
Takeaway: The Polk Signature is a good speaker if forward sound and a wide soundstage is desired, especially when paired with warmer amps and using an equalizer. It can be great for people on a budget if a brighter sound is preferred.
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.
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Wharfedale
Evo4.2
899
/
Released
2021
Wharfedale's new EVO4 has grown out of the extensive research and development that produced the ELYSIAN flagship loudspeakers and borrows much of the technology involved in ELYSIAN. The primary focus is on the AMT development resulting in a radically different way of reproducing high frequency detail efficiently and accurately.
Wharfedale is a speaker brand known for making high-end audio accessible to budget-conscious audiophiles, particularly through their Heritage Series and Diamond line which offer premium sound at affordable prices. Their speakers feature curved cabinets and are celebrated for their rich, full-bodied sound with excellent tonal balance, notably in their Linton 85s and Dovedale models.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent focus and separation, with the speakers 'disappearing' to create a natural soundstage
- Impressive low-end performance, adding authority to the music
- Cohesive driver integration, with no perceivable handover between the AMT tweeter, midrange dome, and woofer
- Remarkable neutrality in the midrange, with a detailed yet smooth treble—avoiding harshness even at higher volumes
- Clear and detailed sound reproduction, extracting nuances and levels of information outstanding for its price
Product Considerations
- Vertical off-axis performance of the AMT tweeter is not good, so correct speaker height and toe-in are important
- Soundstage is not super wide, with the presentation mostly between the speakers
- Some reviewers found the aesthetics or proportions to be awkward or not to suit all tastes
- Bass may be a bit polite for some listeners wanting subwoofer-type rumble
- The midrange can be fatiguing if the listener's ear is at the midrange driver level
Takeaway: The Evo4.2 is a well-rounded speaker that delivers excellent sound quality with impressive imaging, detail, and tonal balance. It is capable of providing an audiophile experience at an affordable price.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Wharfedale is a speaker brand known for making high-end audio accessible to budget-conscious audiophiles, particularly through their Heritage Series and Diamond line which offer premium sound at affordable prices. Their speakers feature curved cabinets and are celebrated for their rich, full-bodied sound with excellent tonal balance, notably in their Linton 85s and Dovedale models.
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