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Polk Audio SurroundBar 500 CHT

Quick Specifications

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  • Product type Speakers
  • Speaker type Surround sound speaker
  • Connectivity Wired
  • Amplification type 2-way - Passive
  • Input impedance 8 Ohm
  • Sensitivity 87 dB

Most helpful user review

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"Decent but won't replace individual speakers."

3 stars  | on by PlebiusOonum

Pros

Fairly easy setup, consumes very little space. The SDA control module wire connectors are easy to use; just strip your speaker wire, push the connector, insert the wire, and release. Best I've seen. Handy switch for 3,5,7 speaker configs.

Cons

I'm using this for Front, Center, and Rear in a 5.1 mode. So far it sounds thin and tinty, although I'm trying to correct via EQ. Definitely can't handle much wattage, and the rubber shelf feet don't work well so I had to prop it up from behind.

Summary

I purchase this to replaced my old 199 polk floor speakers without testing and after having only found a single review.

Don't get your hopes up that this will replace any real set of speakers. Mine is connected to a 1999 Sony STR-DA333ES receiver and old Polk sub woofer. ... Read full review

I purchase this to replaced my old 199 polk floor speakers without testing and after having only found a single review.

Don't get your hopes up that this will replace any real set of speakers. Mine is connected to a 1999 Sony STR-DA333ES receiver and old Polk sub woofer. Although the PA 500CHT does produce some interesting clear sounds, it will clip if you push it. Also the tone isn't at all what I was expecting, a little thin and tinty.

For comparison, I have an affordable 32" Sony 3D Soundbar all in one unit that cost me 1/3 of the Polk Audio and includes the amp. Tone wise, the cheap Sony keeps up with the PA, although the PA is louder with better clarity; it really comes down to the value proposition of 3 times the money for x percent better tone.

In summary, if you don't have the space for speakers, go with a soundbar, but test it first. However, if you want realistic spacial 3D suround sound, or are an audiophile and need to hear the best, spend the bucks and get individual speakers.

 

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