Polk Audio Home Theater System
Score: 76/100
Bowers & Wilkins Panorama 3
Score: 82/100Rankings
The Bowers & Wilkins Panorama 3 is a premium 3.1.2-channel soundbar with integrated subwoofer, delivering audiophile-grade sound and extensive Wi-Fi/Bluetooth connectivity. Its large size, high price, and less intuitive remote are notable compromises. Perfect for audiophiles and medium-size rooms desiring an all-in-one Atmos solution.
Polk Audio's 5.1 Channel Home Theater System combines powered subwoofer, tower, bookshelf, center, and satellite speakers for immersive surround sound. Its substantial weight and absence of wireless features can be limiting for users seeking easy setup and modern connectivity. Best for budget-conscious home-theater enthusiasts with space for larger components.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
26 kHzbest | — | |
90 dBbest | — | |
500 Wbest | — | |
8 Ωbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 22.63 kg | 6.5 kgbest |
6best | 6best | |
— | 2 yearsbest | |
16.51 cmbest | 5.08 cm |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio(2) | ||
Driver Size (cm) | 16.51 cm | 5.08 cm |
Woofer Size (cm) | 16.51 cm | 10.16 cm |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (kg) | 22.63 kg | 6.5 kg |
Dimensions (H×W×D) (cm³) | 93978 cm³ | 12688 cm³ |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend Polk's RTiA 5.1 for its dynamic range, precise imaging, and high-resolution drivers, while noting the substantial weight of the subwoofer as a practical drawback. Overall, the line is praised for delivering cinema-grade sound performance at a relatively accessible price point, provided the user can accommodate the bulk.
Everyday users appreciate the straightforward setup, powerful bass, and clear high-frequency detail, especially for movie and gaming use. Recurring criticisms focus on the heavy, bulky nature of the subwoofer and towers and the absence of wireless connectivity, which some find limiting for modern streaming setups.
Professional reviewers commend the Panorama 2 for its audiophile-grade sound, wide imaging, and effective Atmos height effects, noting its superb build quality and dynamic performance even at high volumes. However, they point out the lack of a dedicated music surround mode, limited on-board EQ, and fewer features compared to competitors, making it a strong but feature-light all-in-one solution.
Everyday users overwhelmingly praise the Panorama 2 for its exceptional sound, deep integrated bass, sleek design and straightforward setup, often calling it the best sound bar they've owned. Recurring criticisms focus on the unwieldy remote, high price and the bar's large size, which can be problematic in smaller spaces.
