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 ES90
reviews
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Speaker Type: Height (topper)
- Product Dimensions (W x H x D): 7.5 x 7.3 x 12.1 in. (189 x 186 x 306 mm)
- Weight (one speaker): 8.3 lbs (3.76 kg)
- Tweeter: 1 in. (2.5 cm) Terylene dome
- Midrange/Midbass: 5.25 in. mica-reinforced polypropylene driver
- Crossover Frequency: 2200 Hz
- Frequency Response: -10dB Frequency Limits: 52 Hz–40 kHz, -3dB Frequency Limits: 142 Hz–26 kHz
- Nominal Impedance: 4Ω (8Ω compatible)
- Recommended Amplifier Power: 20–150W per channel
- Sensitivity: 85dB
- Inputs: 1 pair of 5-way binding posts (gold)
Description
Add Dolby Atmos-certified height modules to Signature Elite ES20, ES55, and ES60 and Signature S20, S55, and S60 speakers to elevate immersive home theater experiences with lifelike overhead sound.
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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Polk
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What if you spend more?
Polk
Reserve R200
525
525
/
5
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
- 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
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.
Expand Details
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
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.
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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.
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What competes at this price?
Polk
XT20
299
/
Released
2021
Monitor XT20 maximizes the enjoyment of music, gaming, and movies with lifelike, high-resolution sound and effortless bass. As the higher-performing bookshelf speaker in the Monitor XT line, the MXT20 can be paired with louder amplifiers and can produce deeper bass (a full half octave lower) than the compact MXT15.
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
- Clear and natural dialogue projection for movies
- Impressive bass performance, especially in small to medium-sized rooms
- Good imaging, with elements well-placed in the mix
- Durable finish on the cabinet that is scratch resistant
- Engaging sound quality for the price
Product Considerations
- Treble can sound a bit two-dimensional
- The tweeter can be a bit harsh at louder volumes
- Bass is not very refined
- Simplistic box design
- They are heavier than expected
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Cerwin-Vega LA-165s, the tweeter on the Cerwin-Vegas is better, but midrange driver from the XT20 is nicer
- Vs Sony SS-CS5, Polk gives nicer bass than Sony
Takeaway: The Polk Monitor XT20 is an affordable speaker that offers good sound quality, especially with its bass performance and clear dialogue, making it a great option to put smiles on people's faces when listening to music or watching movies. Its durable build and engaging sound make it a worthwhile consideration for those starting their audio journey.
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 R100
455
/
Released
2021
The R100 is a versatile small speaker that is great in a compact stereo pair, as part of a front stage, or as surround components in a larger system. Its diminutive size means it's equally at home on a bookshelf or on a stand.
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
- Great soundstage and imaging.
- Performs well with vocals, both male and female.
- The R100/R200 speakers have a neutral and clean sound.
- The R100 punches above its weight and is one of the best Polk speakers.
Product Considerations
- The R100 may require a subwoofer for those desiring more bass.
- The R100 may exhibit some strain when played at high volumes.
- The R200 is larger than the R100, which could be a consideration for some users.
- At higher volumes the tweeter becomes too much.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The R100 is similar to the Elac DBR-62, but with more flavor, and the Elac DBR-62 had fuller bass and leading edge to its bass.
- Compared to the Bowers & Wilkins 607S2, the R100 is more neutral.
- The R200 has a larger and fuller sound than the R100, with greater ease when playing loud.
- The R200's transparency and purity pulled ahead of the Klipsch RP-600M.
- The Reserve R100 is better for music only, the Monitor Audio Bronze 100 is better in a mixed system because it is so good with dialogue clarity.
- The Elac Uni-Fi UB 52 is just about as good as the Reserve R100.
Takeaway: The Polk Audio Reserve line offers a good balance of performance and value, bringing technology from higher-end models to a more affordable price point. With good soundstage and imaging and clear vocals, these speakers are a solid choice for listeners looking for an engaging and enjoyable listening 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.
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Polk
Monitor XT15
199
/
Released
2021
Compact and affordable, Monitor XT15 maximizes the enjoyment of music, gaming, and movies with energetic, high-resolution sound with effortless bass. Use the MXT15 for front left and right channels or as side or surround speakers. It's also wall-mountable allowing for flexible placement.
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
- Clear, detailed sound with good clarity
- Nice bass presence for its size
- Nice looking speaker with and without the grill
- Good value for the price, setting a new bar for budget speakers
- Can handle some power, suitable for small to medium rooms
Product Considerations
- Treble can be slightly harsh and fatiguing at higher volumes after prolonged listening
- Bass response is punchy rather than deep
- May sound a touch boomy if placed too close to the wall
- Sensitivity is a little on the low side, requiring more power
- Lacks wall-mounting capability
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Cambridge Audio S30, the XT15 has better soundstage, imaging, and punchier bass, but S30 has a smoother midrange and top end
- Vs Jamo S801, the XT15 has far better bass response
Takeaway: The Polk Monitor XT15 is a great budget speaker that offers clear sound and good bass for its size, making it a solid choice for a first hifi system or for music listening. It's hard to beat for the price, and it provides an excellent performance-to-price ratio.
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 ES20
399
/
Released
2021
Enjoy movies, music and gaming with high-resolution, room-filling, cinematic sound and effortless bass. Polk's high-performance ES20 bookshelf 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
- Noticeable step up from budget speakers in design, build, and sound
- Smooth, consistent all-around sound with a satisfyingly large scale presentation
- Good bass performance
- Flexible room placement options
- Weighty and full-bodied sound with good scale
Product Considerations
- Aesthetic presentation is a bit boring
- There is fierce competition in its market sector
- Not optimized for music, as there are better-sounding speakers for the same money
- Not for forensic detail freaks
- Demands more space
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Polk ES15: The ES20 offers bigger sound and more weight to the low end, with the ES20 having a 6.5' woofer versus the ES15 having a 5.25' woofer
- Vs ELAC BS U5: The ELACs demonstrate subtler articulation than the ES20s
- Vs Polk S20: The ES20 is cleaner in the treble, has a clearer midband, and sounds firmer and better integrated
- Vs Wharfedale Diamond 12.2: The reviewer much prefers the Polk ES20s
Takeaway: The Signature Elite ES20 speakers are versatile and a good option for creating a bigger audio system within a budget. It is a solid all-around speaker that gets a lot right and puts out a potent punch when called on to.
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 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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