Polk Audio Signa S4 soundbar review upgraded with Dolby Atmos and wireless subwoofer

Description

Compact and Immersive Design
I’ve been testing the Polk Audio Signa S4 Sound Bar with Wireless Subwoofer, and the first thing that struck me was its ultra-slim design. At just 2.36 inches tall, it slides seamlessly under most TVs without blocking the screen or remote sensor. Whether mounted on the wall or resting on a shelf, it fits right in. The sleek black finish complements modern setups, giving it a minimalist yet premium vibe. The wireless subwoofer is equally compact, allowing me to place it discreetly in a corner without sacrificing sound quality.

The build feels robust, and the included wall-mount template simplifies installation. They even thought about details like wall-mount spacers, which made set-up a breeze. However, I found the soundbar’s length (41.2 inches) slightly imposing for smaller spaces, though it looked perfect beneath a 55-inch TV.

Dolby Atmos and Surround Sound Performance
The Dolby Atmos 3.1.2 channel configuration truly enhances the listening experience. I tested this soundbar with action-packed movies and was blown away by the immersive 3D audio. The up-firing speakers bring height dimension to sounds, making effects like helicopters flying overhead feel incredibly real. Even during quieter scenes, the clarity and depth of sound elevated the entire viewing experience.

The Bass Adjust Technology is a game changer. It allowed me to fine-tune the bass levels without overpowering the dialogue or other audio elements. Whether it was deep rumbles during an intense scene or subtle background music, the system handled it all gracefully.

What surprised me most was the VoiceAdjust Technology, which ensured crystal-clear dialogue. Dialogues in action movies or even fast-paced TV shows were no longer drowned out by sound effects. I could customize the voice levels to suit my preferences, and it worked beautifully every time.

Key Benefits

• Dolby Atmos certification delivers cinematic surround sound.
• VoiceAdjust Technology ensures clear dialogue for movies and shows.
• Compact, low-profile design fits under most TVs or can be wall-mounted.
• Bass Adjust Technology balances bass impact perfectly.
• Quick and straightforward setup with the included HDMI eARC cable.

Areas for Improvement
Not everything is perfect, though. There are some shortcomings worth noting:

• The Bluetooth range is limited to 10 meters, which might not be ideal for larger spaces.
• While the soundbar supports multiple input options, the lack of Wi-Fi connectivity feels like a missed opportunity.
• The included remote, while functional, feels slightly outdated in design and lacks backlighting for dark rooms.

Streaming and Connectivity Options
Streaming music wirelessly is simple with the built-in Bluetooth technology. I connected my smartphone and effortlessly played playlists through Spotify and Pandora. The audio quality held up well, with no noticeable drops or latency. That said, I wish it supported Wi-Fi streaming for apps like Apple AirPlay or Chromecast, as these options are becoming more common in competitors.

I appreciated the flexibility of inputs, including optical, analog 3.5mm, and HDMI eARC. This made it easy to connect to various devices without needing additional adapters. However, there’s no dedicated input for USB playback, which some users might find limiting.

Competing Products
Compared to Sonos Beam Gen 2, the Signa S4 stands out with its dedicated subwoofer, offering deeper bass. The Sonos Beam, while excellent for dialogue clarity and smart features, doesn’t quite match the Signa S4 in terms of overall impact for action-heavy content. On the other hand, the Vizio M-Series 5.1 Soundbar offers more connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, but its design feels bulkier and less elegant than the Signa S4.

Where the Polk Audio soundbar shines is its simplicity and focus on core audio quality. It may not have all the smart features of its rivals, but it’s more accessible for those who prioritize sound over tech gimmicks.

Bang for the Buck
From a price-performance perspective, this soundbar and subwoofer combo delivers exceptional value. You’re getting Dolby Atmos-certified sound, a wireless subwoofer, and customizable audio features for a price that’s hard to beat in this category. While there are areas for improvement, the overall performance justifies the investment.

In summary, this product is ideal for movie enthusiasts and casual listeners who want powerful, immersive sound without breaking the bank. It’s not perfect, but it delivers where it counts most—sound quality and ease of use. If you’re looking for a soundbar that can handle everything from streaming music to movie nights, this one is worth considering.

Additional information