Polk Audio MagniFi Max AX SR
Score: 78/100
JBL Bar 2.1
Score: 67/100Rankings
The MagniFi Max AX SR is a flagship 7.1.2-channel soundbar system that delivers immersive Dolby Atmos and DTS:X performance with a powerful wireless subwoofer and two wireless surrounds, ideal for larger living rooms.
The JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass (MK2) offers 300 W total output with a powerful wireless subwoofer, delivering strong bass and clear dialogue in a compact, wall-mountable package. It lacks modern smart features such as Wi-Fi, eARC and Dolby Atmos, positioning it as an entry-level home-theater solution.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
— | 300 Wbest | |
— | 40 Hzbest | |
— | 20,000 Hzbest | |
3best | 1 | |
1best | 1best | |
5best | 4.2 | |
| ↓ lower better | 17.815 kg | 9.972 kgbest |
12 monthsbest | 12 monthsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Connectivity(2) | ||
Bluetooth Version | 5.0 | 4.2 |
Wi‑Fi Support | true | false |
Video(2) | ||
HDMI Inputs | 3 | 1 |
HDMI eARC Support | true | false |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Overall Weight (kg) | 17.815 kg | 9.972 kg |
Audio(2) | ||
Channel Configuration | 7.1.2 | 2.1 |
Supported Audio Formats | PCM, Dolby Mono, Digital, Digital Plus, Atmos, Atmos True HD, DTS Digital Surround, DTS-HD, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS:X, DTS Virtual X | MP3, WAV, Dolby Digital, JBL Surround Sound |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers from ListenUp and World Wide Stereo praise the MagniFi Max AX SR as a rare soundbar that truly delivers 7.1.2 channel immersion, highlighting its SDA-driven soundstage, OLED front display, and practical BassAdjust and VoiceAdjust features.
Everyday users consistently commend the system for its crystal-clear dialogue, powerful bass, and straightforward wireless setup, while noting occasional Wi-Fi instability and the IR remote's line-of-sight requirement.
“Dialogue is crystal clear”
“Bass is powerful and deep”
“Easy to set up”
Professional reviewers praise the Bar 2.1 Deep Bass for cinematic sound and powerful bass, but note the absence of smart capabilities and lack of Atmos.
Everyday users highlight the impressive bass and easy setup, while complaining about missing smart features and occasional distortion at high volumes.
