Polk Audio Signa S2 Sound Bar and Wireless Subwoofer review for immersive home audio experience

Description

A Sleek Design That Fits Everywhere

The Polk Audio Signa S2 Sound Bar & Wireless Subwoofer has a surprisingly compact design for the impressive sound it delivers. Sitting just over 2 inches tall, it easily slides under my TV without obstructing the screen or blocking the TV’s IR remote sensor. The ultra-slim profile makes it versatile, whether you’re setting it on a stand or mounting it on the wall. I appreciated not having to rearrange my living room to accommodate it. Despite the plastic material, the build feels solid, and the black finish blends seamlessly with most home theater setups.

Key Benefits

• The compact design fits snugly under most TVs.
• Wall-mounting options provide flexibility for smaller spaces.
• Aesthetic simplicity that complements rather than dominates the room.

Exceptional Audio for Entertainment Lovers

Once powered on, the sound quality blew me away. The 5.1 surround sound configuration paired with Dolby Digital decoding creates an immersive audio experience that makes movies, shows, and music richer. Watching action-packed movies or even casual sitcoms felt like a step up from my TV’s built-in speakers. The VoiceAdjust technology is a lifesaver for dialogue-heavy content. I no longer have to strain to catch every word during fast-paced conversations.

The included wireless subwoofer adds a deep bass punch that’s perfect for gaming or enjoying music. I tested it with everything from Spotify playlists to a high-energy video game, and I could feel the bass without it overwhelming the mids and highs. The sound remains balanced and clear, even at higher volumes.

Plus Points

• Voice clarity enhanced by VoiceAdjust technology.
• Dolby Digital decoding provides a cinematic surround sound.
• The wireless subwoofer delivers an impactful bass experience.
• Versatile sound range for movies, music, and games.

Simple Setup for Instant Gratification

Setting up this soundbar was ridiculously easy. The box includes HDMI and optical cables, so all I had to do was connect the bar to my TV via HDMI ARC and plug in the subwoofer. Once powered on, the devices paired instantly without any hiccups. The remote control, while basic, is intuitive and gets the job done.

I also loved the Bluetooth compatibility, which lets me stream music directly from my phone. Pairing my device took seconds, and the connection remained stable even when I walked to another room. This feature makes it a great option for parties or casual listening.

Flaws to Keep in Mind

While I’m mostly satisfied, there are a few areas for improvement worth noting. The provided remote feels a little too lightweight and cheap for a product of this quality. It works fine, but a sturdier design would have been appreciated. Additionally, while the subwoofer provides excellent bass, it occasionally feels overpowering at lower volumes, and there isn’t an easy way to fine-tune it on the fly.

Another minor gripe is the lack of support for more advanced surround sound codecs like DTS:X, which some competing soundbars in this price range offer. It’s not a dealbreaker for me, but it might matter to audiophiles looking for the absolute best in sound quality.

Negative Attributes

• The remote control feels fragile and basic.
• Limited customization for bass levels.
• No DTS:X support, which some competitors provide.

How It Stands Against Product Rivals

When comparing this soundbar and subwoofer combo to similar models, I immediately thought of options like the Yamaha YAS-209 and the Vizio M-Series. While both competitors offer solid performance, the Polk Audio Signa S2 excels in its compact design and ease of use. The Yamaha model does include DTS Virtual:X for more advanced surround sound, but it’s bulkier and more expensive. The Vizio option matches the Polk in sound quality but lacks the VoiceAdjust technology, which I’ve found incredibly useful for dialogue-heavy content.

If you prioritize a simple setup process and a balanced, room-filling sound, this product holds its own against pricier alternatives. However, audiophiles seeking premium features like DTS:X or app-based remote control might find the competitors more appealing.

Cost-Effectiveness

Is this soundbar worth the money? Absolutely. While it’s not the cheapest on the market, it provides a fantastic price-to-quality ratio. The inclusion of both HDMI and optical cables, along with the wireless subwoofer, makes it a complete package. I didn’t feel the need to purchase any extras, which is rare for tech products. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to upgrade their home theater without spending a fortune.

This soundbar hits the sweet spot between performance and affordability, offering a noticeable improvement over standard TV speakers at a reasonable cost. The Bluetooth streaming alone feels like a bonus feature that I didn’t know I needed until I had it.

Additional information