Polk Audio MagniFi Max AX SR
Score: 83/100
Sony HT-A9000
Score: 82/100Rankings
The Polk MagniFi Max AX SR provides a flagship 7.1.2-channel wireless system with rear surrounds, supporting Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and extensive streaming options. Its premium price and limited warranty may be drawbacks for some buyers. Designed for enthusiasts seeking a full-home-theater experience without extensive wiring.
The Sony BRAVIA Theater Bar 9 (HT-A9000) is a premium soundbar featuring 13 speakers, 585 W power and 360 Spatial Sound Mapping with Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and IMAX Enhanced support. However, it omits a separate wireless subwoofer and rear speakers, which can limit deep bass and true surround separation. Best for users wanting a high-end, all-in-one Atmos-capable soundbar for medium-large rooms.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
— | 585 Wbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 5.83 kg | 5.489 kgbest |
1 yearsbest | 1 yearsbest | |
114.3 cm | 130 cmbest | |
11.8 cmbest | 6.4 cm | |
7.2 cm | 11.3 cmbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio(2) | ||
Supported Audio Formats | PCM, Dolby Mono, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby Atmos, Dolby Atmos True HD, DTS Digital Surround, DTS-HD, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS:X, DTS Virtual:X | Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, IMAX Enhanced |
Wireless Subwoofer | true | false |
Design(4) | ||
Soundbar Weight (kg) | 5.83 kg | 5.489 kg |
Soundbar Width (cm) | 114.3 cm | 130 cm |
Soundbar Height (cm) | 11.8 cm | 6.4 cm |
Soundbar Depth (cm) | 7.2 cm | 11.3 cm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Bar 8 for its innovative 360 Spatial Sound Mapping, quad woofers and X-Balanced drivers that together deliver a wide, immersive soundstage in a compact form factor. They also note its strong integration with Sony TVs and robust room-calibration features, while pointing out the lack of built-in subwoofer and limited streaming options as notable drawbacks for high-end home-theater enthusiasts.
Everyday users praise the Bar 8 for its cinematic immersion, easy setup and slim design that fits under or on a TV. Common praise centers on the side‑ and up‑firing speakers that fill the room with sound and the seamless BRAVIA TV pairing. Recurring complaints focus on the bass depth, which many feel is insufficient without an optional subwoofer, and the desire for more discrete surround channels.
“fills the room with sound”
