Polk Audio MagniFi Mini AX
Score: 78/100
JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass MK2
Score: 76/100Rankings
The Polk MagniFi Mini AX is a compact 3.1-channel soundbar delivering Dolby Atmos and DTS:X with a wireless subwoofer, offering immersive audio in a small footprint. Missing detailed power output and a higher price point may deter cost-sensitive buyers. Perfect for apartments or condos where space is at a premium but immersive sound is desired.
The JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass (MK2) offers a powerful 300 W 2.1-channel system with a wireless 6.5-inch subwoofer and Dolby Digital virtual surround, delivering strong bass in a compact footprint. Its trade-offs include the lack of HDMI ARC, modern Bluetooth 5.x, and built-in voice assistants, limiting its connectivity and smart-feature set. It is best for budget-conscious buyers who want punchy bass and simple wireless setup.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
— | 2.1best | |
— | 300 Wbest | |
12.7 cm | 16.5 cmbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 6.35 kg | 2.14 kgbest |
10 mbest | — | |
1 yearsbest | 1 yearsbest | |
36.6 cm | 96.5 cmbest | |
7.9 cmbest | 5.6 cm |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio(4) | ||
Audio Channels | 3.1 | 2.1 |
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 Digital, MP3, WAV |
Dolby Atmos Support | true | false |
Subwoofer Driver Size (cm) | 12.7 cm | 16.5 cm |
Connectivity(2) | ||
Bluetooth Version | 5.0 | 4.2 |
HDMI ARC/eARC | true | false |
Design(4) | ||
Soundbar Weight (kg) | 6.35 kg | 2.14 kg |
Soundbar Width (cm) | 36.6 cm | 96.5 cm |
Soundbar Height (cm) | 7.9 cm | 5.6 cm |
Soundbar Depth (cm) | 10.4 cm | 8.5 cm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers, such as Crutchfield, position the JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass MK2 as the best budget sound bar for 2025, praising its 300W output, compact footprint, and wireless subwoofer that delivers strong bass. JBL's own materials stress the "deep, thrilling bass" and room-filling power, while noting the virtual surround processing via Dolby Digital.
