JBL Bar 5.1
Score: 78/100
Polk Audio Signa S4
Score: 79/100Rankings
The Polk Signa S4 is a slim Dolby Atmos sound bar with a powerful 410 W output, VoiceAdjust dialogue enhancement, and a wireless subwoofer, delivering immersive audio for small to medium rooms. Its drawbacks include the lack of a standard HDMI input and occasional Bluetooth hiccups, which may affect connectivity flexibility. Best suited for budget-conscious viewers with 40-55" TVs who prioritize immersive sound and dialogue clarity.
The JBL Bar 5.1 is a 5.1-channel soundbar system delivering 510 W of power and a wireless 10-inch subwoofer for strong bass. Its bulky packaging and heavy weight limit portability and ease of setup. Best suited for medium-large rooms where power outweighs size concerns.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
5.1 | 6best | |
510 Wbest | 410 W | |
10 inbest | — | |
1.25 inbest | 1 in | |
— | 5.9 inbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 29.7 lb | 19 lbbest |
1 years | 3 yearsbest | |
5 | 7best |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Power & Performance(1) | ||
Total Power Output (W) | 510 W | 410 W |
Audio(2) | ||
Audio Channels | 5.1 | 6 |
Tweeter Size (in) | 1.25 in | 1 in |
Features(1) | ||
Dolby Atmos | false | true |
General(2) | ||
Warranty (years) | 1 years | 3 years |
Included Accessories | 5 | 7 |
Build & Design(2) | ||
System Weight (lb) | 29.7 lb | 19 lb |
System Dimensions (H×W×D) (cm) | 5.84×101.85×9.91 cm cm | 2.4 x 41.2 x 3.7 in cm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers acknowledge the JBL Bar 5.1's strong bass, high power output and convenient wireless surrounds, but they criticize its bulky packaging and note that the audio refinement falls short of premium competitors.
Everyday users love the deep bass and the flexibility of the battery-powered surrounds, yet many complain about the heavy, cumbersome box and the effort required to set it up alone.
Professional reviewers commend the Signa S4 for its impressive bass output, clear dialogue thanks to VoiceAdjust, and effective Atmos height effects, noting it offers strong value in the entry-level Atmos segment. However, they criticize the missing standard HDMI input and the need for careful bass balancing, suggesting it's best suited for users who prioritize sound impact over extensive connectivity.
Everyday users love the easy wireless sub setup, the room-shaking bass, and the clear speech reproduction, especially for movies and sports. Common complaints revolve around the sub's heft, occasional Bluetooth hiccups, and the inability to connect multiple HDMI sources, with some noting the bass can dominate mids if not tuned.
“good but not great”
“huge soundstage”
“powerful bass that rumbles behind couch”
