Polk Audio Signa S2
Score: 71/100
Samsung HW-C450
Score: 70/100Rankings
The Polk Audio Signa S2 is a low-profile 2.1 soundbar with a wireless 5.25-inch subwoofer delivering solid bass and VoiceAdjust dialogue enhancement. Its plastic construction and limited channel configuration restrict its appeal for larger home-theater setups. Best for budget-conscious owners of 40-55-inch TVs seeking easy installation and clear dialogue.
The Samsung HW-C450 offers a 2.1-channel setup with a wireless subwoofer and DTS Virtual:X for enhanced height effects, providing powerful bass in a compact package. Its absence of HDMI ARC and Wi-Fi, plus limited Bluetooth codec support, may deter users wanting modern connectivity. Best suited for budget-conscious TV owners who prioritize bass and versatile inputs.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
3best | 2.1 | |
— | 300 Wbest | |
13.34 cm | 15.24 cmbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 1.8 kg | 1.4 kgbest |
1 yearsbest | 1 yearsbest | |
— | 6best | |
90 cmbest | 85.88 cm | |
5.46 cm | 5.9 cmbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio(2) | ||
Audio Channels | 3 | 2.1 |
Subwoofer Driver Size (cm) | 13.34 cm | 15.24 cm |
Connectivity(1) | ||
HDMI ARC/eARC | true | false |
Design(4) | ||
Soundbar Weight (kg) | 1.8 kg | 1.4 kg |
Soundbar Width (cm) | 90.0 cm | 85.88 cm |
Soundbar Height (cm) | 5.46 cm | 5.9 cm |
Soundbar Depth (cm) | 8.41 cm | 7.5 cm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Signa S2 for its sleek, low-profile design, effective VoiceAdjust dialogue enhancement, and solid bass from the wireless subwoofer, positioning it as a strong budget option for users seeking Dolby Digital virtual surround. However, they note the plastic subwoofer housing and lack of disclosed amplifier power as drawbacks that may limit its appeal for larger or more demanding home-theater installations.
Consumers appreciate the clear vocals, powerful bass, and hassle-free Bluetooth streaming, often highlighting the quick setup and wall-mountable form factor. Recurring complaints focus on occasional subwoofer dropouts, limited volume headroom in bigger rooms, and occasional HDMI ARC compatibility quirks.
Professional reviewers commend the HW-C450 for its strong bass output, solid 300 W peak power, and effective DTS Virtual:X processing, noting that the four midrange drivers and two tweeters deliver clear mids and highs. However, they criticize the lack of HDMI ARC and Wi-Fi, which makes the soundbar feel dated compared to competitors that offer more versatile connectivity.
Everyday users praise the HW-C450 for its easy setup, powerful subwoofer bass, and useful features like Game Mode and Night Mode, especially in smaller living spaces. Recurring frustrations focus on the subwoofer's need for a nearby outlet, occasional Bluetooth dropouts, and the absence of app or voice-assistant control, which some feel limits the product's modern appeal.
“Subwoofer requires nearby outlet (not fully wireless power)”
