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
Signature Elite ES50
reviews
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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Height: 37.4" (95 cm)
- Width: 7.5" (19.1 cm)
- Depth: 10.9" (27.7 cm)
- Weight: 32 lbs (14.5 kg)
- Driver Complement: (1) 1" (2.54 cm) Terylene High-Res Dome Tweeter, (2) 5.25" (13.34 cm) Dynamic Balance Mica Reinforced Polypropylene Drivers
- Total Frequency Response: 38 Hz → 40 kHz
- Recommended Amplifier Power Per Channel: 40 watts → 200 watts
- Sensitivity: 88 dB (2.83V @ 1m)
- Impedance: Compatible with 4 and 8 ohm outputs
- Inputs: Dual gold-plated 5-way binding posts
- Crossover Frequency: 2.3 kHz
Description
The Signature Elite ES50 floor-standing tower speakers provide a truly balanced, cinematic sound that will maximize your sonic experience no matter what type of content you play.
Enjoy movies, music and gaming with high-resolution, room-filling, cinematic sound and effortless bass. Polk’s high-performance ES50 floor-standing loudspeaker is Hi-Res Audio Certified, Dolby Atmos & DTS:X compatible, and features a Dynamically Balanced acoustic array, precision crossovers and Power Port bass-enhancement.
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.
Select products
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
$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.
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Our interview with the brand
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
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What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
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Polk
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What if you spend more?
Polk
Reserve R700
769
769
/
4
Reviews
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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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.
Product Page
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Polk
Reserve R600
595
595
/
3
Reviews
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
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.
Product Page
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Polk
Signature Elite ES60
549
549
/
1
Reviews
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.
Product Page
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Klipsch
RP-8000F II
749
749
/
9
Reviews
Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Flat in-room frequency response, especially from 200 Hz upwards, contributes to accurate sound reproduction
- Amplifier and receiver friendly due to its high sensitivity and 8-ohm impedance, performing well with entry-level to flagship AV receivers and amplifiers
- The new, larger Tractrix horn waveguide design offers improved directivity control and high-frequency focus
- Excels in dynamics, delivering raw impact and presence that enhances the excitement of movies and gaming, as well as rock and electronica music
Product Considerations
- Treble might become fatiguing with lesser recordings or at higher volumes, and may not be agreeable with all genres for listeners seeking a very smooth top end
- The midrange, while linear, isn't completely neutral due to some cabinet resonance, adding extra energy that may or may not be desirable depending on listener preference
- For true full-range playback, a subwoofer is required to compensate for the lack of deep bass extension
- The vinyl finish may disappoint fans of natural materials
- Best listened at within a 5-degree angle, and listening at a height level with the tweeter is clearly the best choice
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Polk R700: R700 is a more versatile all-rounder, but preferred for rock and electronica
- Vs. Sonus Faber Lumina 5: The Sonus Faber is better built and looks nicer, but more refined
- Vs. Q Acoustics Concept 50s: The Concept 50s image a little better, disappear just a little bit better, and they are exceptional off-axis, but do not play as low
- Vs. Heco Aurora 1000: The Heco is more linear across the range
- Vs. SVS Prime Pinnacle: The SVS Prime Pinnacle has a tweeter that is lower in level, offering a warmer sound
Takeaway: The Klipsch RP-8000F Mark II is a speaker that brings a dynamic sound to movies, gaming, and music. For speakers that are easy to set up, are amplifier-friendly and deliver punchy, clear audio, these could be a great option.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Klipsch is renowned for its pioneering use of horn-loaded technology in speakers, which enhances efficiency and reduces distortion through their signature Tractrix Horn design. The brand's distinctive "Klipsch sound" is characterized by a bright, dynamic audio profile that some find exhilarating.
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What competes at this price?
Polk
Reserve R500
455
/
Released
2021
Offering a balance of size and power, the R500 loudspeaker is perfect for both listening in a stereo pair or within a surround system. It delivers standout sound from a narrow, elegant cabinet that seamlessly fits into any room.
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
- Sleek design with a balanced aesthetic
- Big, warm, and muscular sounding presentation
- Treble response is a little elevated, yet very easy to listen to
- Midrange has a warm, full-bodied sound with real scale and density
- Imaging is a strong suit, providing a good locked-in center image and wide soundstage
Product Considerations
- The speaker can sound shouty in the higher frequencies, specifically around 4-6kHz
- Bass can be too strong—thick in some rooms, and a subwoofer might be needed for deep bass
- High frequencies narrow rapidly when not aimed directly at the listener, reducing 'air'
- The up-firing Dolby Atmos configuration may not be the best immersive experience
- Dynamic output is okay but not as agile as other speakers
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The R500 has more emphasis in the treble, richer midrange, stronger bass, and better imaging compared to the Elac Debut Reference Series, while the Elac Debut Reference Series is more balanced sounding
- The R500 is easier to work with, has a fuller mid-range scale, and stronger bass compared to the Wharfedale Evo line, while the Wharfedale Evo line has greater resolution and refinement
- The R500 is smoother, more forgiving of poor recordings, has a warmer midrange, stronger bass, and superior imaging compared to Klipsch
- Driver integration and bass are better than the Triangle Borea Series, while the Borea series has a more open and brighter sound
- The R500 is smoother, more resolute, has better driver integration, a fuller mid-range, stronger bass, and better imaging compared to the Polk Signature Line
Takeaway: The Polk R500 is a good speaker overall and offers a big, warm sound that works well with most music. It's a stylish speaker that offers great value and ease of use.
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
Monitor XT60
249
/
Released
2021
Monitor XT60 maximizes the enjoyment of movies, music, and gaming, with energetic and dynamic, high-resolution sound featuring effortless bass. Ideal for front left and right, or as side or rear surrounds in your high-performance home theater, MXT tower loudspeakers provide more bass and depth of sound than bookshelf speakers and are the best choice for serious movie and music enthusiasts.
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
- Good neutral response top to bottom
- Detailed and articulate treble response without being too forward or bright
- Excellent soundstage and dynamics for the price
- Bass is weighty and deeper feeling than its measurements convey
- Nice looking exterior, especially for the price
Product Considerations
- Bass requires a subwoofer for full-range playback
- Tweeter can lose composure at high volumes
- Can require more volume than some other speakers
- With aggressive music, mid-range and low frequencies can sound like a traffic jam
- Grills are thin and flimsy
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Versus Klipsch R800F, the Polk XT60 is better, the R800F has messier bass, cabinet distortion, and port noise
- Versus Polk R700, the R700 is a demonstrably better loudspeaker with better bass, a better ability to handle volume and dynamic swings, and unflappable high frequencies
Takeaway: The Polk XT60 is a great entry-level tower speaker that offers surprisingly accurate sound and good performance for the price. It's a solid choice for building a home theater system or enjoying music.
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
Monitor 60 Series II
189
/
Released
The reborn monitor Series is classic Polk: a quality-built, affordable line of high-performance loudspeakers for music and Home theater. They are highly efficient, so they can be driven easily by unpretentious receivers, and they are voice matched for lifelike surround 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
- Good, solid build quality
- Wide dispersed soundstage
- Good bass, and a subwoofer is not usually needed
- Punch higher than their price should be
- The drivers are specially designed for the mid-century to reproduce its noise, in addition to a more significant dispersion
Product Considerations
- The crystal clear and sharp noise is insufficient for the complete noise operation
- To receive the optimal adventure, one ought to use a surround sound installation having a subwoofer, rear or front
- Clients that are searching for an entire audio performance aren't advocating this item
- Amazon alone urges mixing the speakers together with all the Polk Audio PSW10 10-inch Driven Subwoofer, and also the Polk Audio CS10 Center Channel Speaker
- Polk Audio does not sell these anymore
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Polk Audio Monitor 60 Series 2 had a more neutral—balanced sound than Klipsch speakers
Takeaway: The Polk Audio Monitor 60 Series 2 speakers sound very good and look stylish, making them a great option for people on a budget or with smaller rooms. They offer good quality audio for everyday use and fill the room with sound.
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
Monitor XT70
349
/
Released
2021
The highest performing loudspeaker in the Monitor XT line, the MXT70 maximizes your enjoyment of music, movies, TV and gaming. With its dual 6.5" Dynamic Balance woofers and 8" passive bass radiators, and Hi-Res Audio certified tweeter, the MXT70 will fill your home with powerful, high-resolution sound with crystal clear highs and deep, effortless bass.
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
- Ample sub-bass response eliminates the need for a separate subwoofer
- Performs very well in movies, providing a cinematic experience
- Sounds natural with ample clarity for vocal separation when used for movies
Product Considerations
- The veneer finish looks basic and somewhat cheap
- When the volume is pushed, the bass becomes more bloomy, and the mids become slightly more confused—mid performance and bass are areas of weakness
- It isn't geared toward audiophiles looking for pure fidelity, and other speakers may outperform it in detail retrieval and technical aspects for music listening
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Polk ES60: The Polk ES60 has a far more stylized housing
- Vs Emotiva B1+: The Emotiva B1+ significantly outperforms it in detail retrieval and technicals for music listening
Takeaway: The Polk Monitor XT70 is a versatile speaker, great for both movies and music, especially because it delivers a powerful bass response. It's an ideal choice for anyone looking to simplify their setup and enjoy an immersive sound experience without needing extra equipment.
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 ES55
449
/
Released
2021
Enjoy movies, music and gaming with high-resolution, room-filling, cinematic sound and effortless bass. Polk's high-performance ES55 floor-standing loudspeaker is Hi-Res Audio Certified, features a Dynamically Balanced acoustic array, precision crossovers and Power Port bass enhancing technology.
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
- Meticulously crafted to fill your space with rich, detailed sound
- Boasts an impressive frequency response that spans the entire audio spectrum
- Highly efficient, producing significant sound with minimal power input and compatible with a wide range of amplifiers
- Crafted cabinet minimizes vibrations and resonance
- Offers exceptional value for the sound quality
Product Considerations
- May not fit every budget
- Size and weight may limit placement options in smaller rooms
Takeaway: The Polk ES55 floorstanding speakers deliver rich sound and also look great in your living space. These speakers are an excellent choice for those wanting to transform their listening space into an auditory sanctuary.
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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