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.
Product Strengths
- Exceptional build quality
- Dynamic sound
- Incredibly balanced sound
- Good soundstage
- Revealing sound
- Impressive bass
- Good value
- Many connectivity options
Product Considerations
- A bit analytical sounding
- The design may not appeal to everyone
- Some may prefer a warmer sound signature
- The sound can be fatiguing at high volumes
- No XLR output
Takeaway: A great option for those looking for a neutral and revealing sound. It offers good value for its price point.
All
Monitor XT10
reviews
Manufacturer details
- Width: 11.9" (30.2 cm)
- Height: 15.7" (40 cm)
- Depth: 16.6" (42.1 cm)
- Color: Black (vinyl)
- Feet: Permanently installed feet
- LFE: Single RCA
- Line Level: Yes, stereo pair
- Transducers: 10"
- Enclosure Type: Bass reflex (ported)
- Low-Pass Crossover Frequency: 40 Hz–160 Hz
- Phase Adjustment: 0/180°
- Amplifier Type: Class D
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.
Select products
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.
Our take on the brand
Look inside the brand
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?
Used
Polk
What if you spend more?
.svg)
Product Strengths
- Impressive performance from a smaller 10-inch driver and 200-watt amplifier
- Compact size makes placement easier in smaller rooms
- Delivers excellent performance for its price point
- Provides clean, detailed bass that enhances the movie experience in smaller spaces
Product Considerations
- Not suitable for larger rooms (over 200 square feet)
- Won't shake the room like larger subwoofers
- Traditional knob adjustments require more trial and error
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs SVS PB-1000 Pro: ES10 is more compact, while PB-1000 Pro has more output capability
Takeaway: The Polk Signature Elite ES10 is a compact subwoofer offering good bass for smaller rooms and moderate listening levels. It's a great option if on a budget and needing something that doesn't take up much space.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Product Strengths
- Equipped with a substantial 300-watt continuous power amplifier, which is a significant advantage for larger spaces
- Offers deeper bass extension for organ music and electronic genres, and better handling of complex bass lines
- Provides substantial impact during explosive scenes, and better handling of very low frequencies (below 30Hz)
Product Considerations
- Larger size at 19 inches high requires significant space
- At 47.6 lbs, it is heavier and requires more careful placement consideration
- Might be excessive for apartment use due to its power
Takeaway: The Polk Signature Elite ES12 offers more power and deeper bass extension, making it ideal for serious home theater enthusiasts with larger rooms. It is a powerful and capable subwoofer better suited for system growth.
Video review
Our take on the brand
The challenges of designing a mini subwoofer capable of chest-pounding output at the lowest frequencies, while maintaining effective thermal and energy management in a micro-sized enclosure, has always been the holy grail of subwoofer brands. Previous designs were flawed with weak output, distortion, and uncontrolled movement of the cabinet itself.
3000 Micro is like a magic trick— small enough to fit anywhere and capable of delivering breathtaking bass from a shockingly compact 10-inch enclosure. For the first-time ever, a micro subwoofer that does not compromise on performance.
SVS engineers had to bend the laws of physics designing a micro-sized subwoofer capable of massive, pristine output in HiFi and home theater systems. Reference amplifier technology from the flagship SVS 16-Ultra subwoofers was applied in the Sledge STA-800D2 amplifier with discrete MOSFET output for effortless, on-demand current with unerring control.
Harnessing the colossal power are fully active dual opposing 8-inch SVS drivers connected in parallel to move in perfect unison for massive slam and output with crisp, musical transients. The usable surface area of two fully active 8-inch woofers firing in opposite directions unleashes performance on par with much larger subwoofers and the tight, punchy output obliterates multi-driver passive radiator subwoofer designs known for bloated, one-note bass.
3000 Micro also has brains to match its brawn. A 50 MHz Analog Devices DSP enables sophisticated control and custom frequency response curves for optimized real-world output and acoustically tuned room gain. It also enables advanced tuning and control via the SVS subwoofer DSP smartphone app.
Product Strengths
- Compact size makes it easy to integrate into various rooms and setups
- Delivers deep and clear bass
- Powerful amplifier for its size
- The SVS app allows for easy and precise tuning of the subwoofer
- Dual opposing drivers cancel out mechanical energy, minimizing cabinet vibration
- No speaker-level connections, limiting setup options for some stereo systems
Product Considerations
- Can be expensive compared to other subwoofers with similar output, especially if size is not a primary concern
- Limited output compared to larger subwoofers, potentially not ideal for large rooms or bass enthusiasts
- Power cord length can be restrictive when finding optimal placement
- Woofer placement can be tricky, because the opposing drivers might be too close to side walls depending on placement
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- SVS 3000 Micro has better adjustability than Sunfire
Takeaway: The SVS 3000 Micro is a small but capable subwoofer that delivers impressive bass performance for its size, enhanced by a user-friendly app for fine-tuning, and is a great option for those needing a compact solution without sacrificing sound quality. It is small and easy to integrate into a listening room.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Jaw-dropping deep bass extension down to 20Hz and massive output with stunning musicality that will delight both audiophiles and home theater fans. Reference subwoofer performance has never been available near this price from a cabinet of this size. SB-1000 Pro is a breakthrough subwoofer in every way.
Multiple innovations were deployed in the high-excursion 12-inch SVS SB-1000 Pro driver to ensure massive subwoofer performance from a relatively compact cabinet. Advances to the cone, surround, voice coil, and motor assembly maximize excursion for room-energizing SPLs at the lowest frequencies, with precision and control.
Using reference amplifier technology from the flagship SVS 16-Ultra Series, the SB-1000 Pro features a Sledge STA-325D amplifier with fully discrete MOSFET output. Harnessing the immense power while ensuring tonal accuracy and driver control for more convincing bass effects is a 50 MHz Analog Devices Audio DSP with frequency response precisely tuned for the SB-1000 Pro.
SB-1000 Pro also features the SVS subwoofer smartphone app, the most convenient way to control volume, access multiple DSP functions, and program custom presets. Adjust crossover frequencies, a three-band parametric EQ, polarity, room gain and more, all from your favorite seat.
Product Strengths
- Tight, responsive, and controlled bass performance across the frequency range
- Compact size, which is helpful for those with size constraints
- Superb adjustability and control using the SVS app
- Powerful 325W RMS amplifier
- The included app offers fine-tuning options, including equalization for room correction
Product Considerations
- At the highest drive level, it can incur a fair amount of distortion
- The PB-1000 Pro had more headroom at higher frequencies than the SB-1000 Pro, which may have been deliberately reduced to provide a cleaner sound for music
- The feet for the subwoofer are short and may not be ideal for thick carpets
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The SB-1000Pro is a whole package upgrade compared to the Velodyne DLS-4000, with more bass down low and more impactful sound
- The PB-1000 Pro goes deeper in frequency response and is much bigger
- The SB-1000Pro provided more solid and richer sound with more robust bass compared to the Paradigm Premier 700F floorstanding speakers
- SB-1000 Pro has richness and punch that the Sonos Sub cannot match
- The SB-1000 Pro has such good control and has no weakness at reasonable listening levels compared to the Boston Acoustics VR500
Takeaway: The SVS SB-1000 Pro is a compact subwoofer that offers impressive bass performance and extensive control options. With its user-friendly app and powerful amplifier, it is an excellent choice for enhancing both music and home theater experiences.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers quick and authoritative bass that can be felt in a medium-sized room
- Integrates nicely into a variety of systems and doesn't sound monotone
- Offers a three-year warranty on the amplifier and a 60-day in-home trial period
- Good value for the money when on sale, offering better sound than other subwoofers at the same price point
- Has a Class A/B amplifier which offers sonic benefits like superior fidelity
Product Considerations
- Cabinet construction is a bit on the cheap side and displays some resonance
- Included grill feels cheap
- Polk compromised the strength of the front baffle by recessing the driver
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Klipsch Reference R-8SW: The Polk XT12 has a larger woofer, deeper bass extension, more powerful output, and is better for home theater
- Vs SVS SB-1000 Pro: The Polk XT12 is more affordable, but the SVS SB-1000 Pro has deeper bass, more power, and better control options
Takeaway: The Polk Monitor XT12 is a good subwoofer to buy if you want better sound on a budget for your home theater. It delivers quality bass and integrates well with different speakers.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a clean, detailed, and powerful sound, especially for its compact size
- Offers great value, especially considering the option to add extra components over time
- Has strong Amazon Alexa support, functioning as a great-sounding Amazon Echo
- Produces a surprisingly large and forward soundstage, creating a more immersive experience
Product Considerations
- Has only one HDMI (eARC) port
- Voices can sometimes sound a little detached from the onscreen action
- Trebles can become slightly shrill at high volumes
- Lacks Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Airplay 2 support
Takeaway: The Polk React soundbar provides a lot of sound for the price, and it's a good choice if one is looking to build a system over time or if one is already invested in the Amazon Alexa ecosystem. Adding the optional subwoofer is highly recommended for enhanced bass.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Tighter, more controlled bass works beautifully for acoustic jazz, rock, and even electronic music where precision matters
- The advanced DSP helps prevent the bass from becoming boomy or overwhelming, even in smaller rooms
- Its precision actually helps with dialog clarity, as it doesn't produce unwanted resonances that can muddy the sound
- Its compact size (15.1' x 12.8' x 15.2') makes it easier to position in smaller rooms
- Includes Polk's Power Port technology, which reduces turbulence in the bass port for cleaner sound, and Time-Smart Phase Control, letting one fine-tune how the sub blends with the main speakers
Product Considerations
- Its 8-inch driver might seem small compared to other subwoofers
- Might not be suitable for serious movie enthusiasts or dedicated home theater rooms, where more impact is needed
- Frequency response only goes down to 28Hz, whereas some alternatives go lower
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Polk Audio Monitor XT12—the ES8 offers more precise bass, while the XT12 has deeper bass extension and higher output capability
Takeaway: The Signature Elite ES8 is a great choice for smaller rooms where accurate and detailed bass is desired, especially for music listening and casual home theater. Its compact size and advanced features make it easy to integrate into a smaller space and fine-tune the sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Compact and stylish cylindrical design allows for easy placement in various rooms
- Easy setup process with the Sonos app
- Delivers clean and tight bass for both cinematic experiences and music, enhancing the overall audio experience
- Force-cancelling woofers minimize unwanted mechanical vibrations and distortion
- Improves the quality of entire Sonos home cinema setup by handling lower frequencies and freeing up processing power for other speakers
Product Considerations
- The build quality has a slightly insubstantial, cheap feel to the cylinder's top plate
- Less effective in open-plan spaces, and may be overwhelmed by the Sonos Arc in larger rooms
- The amount of SPL seems to vary quite a bit across its range, meaning that it's more prominent with certain frequencies than others
- Sub Level may require frequent adjustment depending on content being played
- Not compatible with Sonos S1 products or Sonos portable speakers
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sonos Sub: The Sonos Sub Mini is not designed to be better, but more convenient, smaller, and more wallet-friendly; the Sonos Sub is better for larger spaces
- Vs Sonos Ray: The Sonos Sub Mini opens out the soundtrack to reveal the low-frequency elements underpinning much of the score that the soundbar alone could not touch
- Vs Sonos Beam Gen 2: The Sonos Beam Gen 2 is the soundbar that gains the most from being paired with Sub Mini, the two being more evenly matched in volume and range
Takeaway: The Sonos Sub Mini is a great choice to enhance the listening experience if one wants to add extra bass to smaller rooms. It is easy to set up and will upgrade existing Sonos speakers for movies and music.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Clean, detailed, and very user-friendly
- Compact and cleanly designed
- Well-controlled and offers a tight bass presentation
Product Considerations
- Limited sub-bass extension
- Can be a touch tubby at higher volumes
- In larger spaces, the SUB8 can struggle to provide the same extension
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The SUB8 is substantially more detailed and controlled, with better definition, and is less boomy than the Energy E:XL-S8
Takeaway: The SUB8 is a user-friendly subwoofer that enhances any audio setup without costing too much, making it a great choice for music and games in smaller spaces. It provides a high-quality, tactile sound that adds depth and impact.
Video review
Our take on the brand
How to buy
Subwoofers
Search all hifi products
Explore our database of 10,000+ new and 25,000+ used hifi products.
