Polk Audio Signa S2
Score: 62/100
Sony HT-S400
Score: 49/100Rankings
The Polk Audio Signa S2 is a compact 2.1-channel sound bar with a wireless subwoofer, offering dialogue-enhancing VoiceAdjust™ technology and easy HDMI ARC setup, but it lacks advanced surround codecs and smart-home features.
The Sony HT-S400 is a compact 2.1-channel soundbar with a powerful 330 W output and virtual surround technology. It offers HDMI ARC, Bluetooth 5.0 and a wireless subwoofer, making it a strong upgrade over built-in TV speakers.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
— | 330 Wbest | |
2 | 2.1best | |
| ↓ lower better | 1.8 kgbest | 2.4 kg |
12 monthsbest | 12 monthsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | — | 0.5 Wbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio Performance(3) | ||
Audio Channels | 2 | 2.1 |
Supported Audio Formats | Dolby Digital 5.1 | Dolby Digital, Dolby Dual Mono, LPCM 2ch, SBC |
Sound Modes | Movie, Music, Night Mode | Sound Field, Voice Mode, Night Mode |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Soundbar Weight (kg) | 1.8 kg | 2.4 kg |
Power & Battery(1) | ||
Power Source | AC | Corded electric |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | 4.2 | 5.0 |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Signa S2 for its dialogue-enhancing VoiceAdjust™ technology, solid midrange performance, and straightforward HDMI ARC integration, noting it outshines budget rivals like the Bose Solo 5 but criticizing its lack of immersive surround, limited codec support, and absence of smart-home features.
Everyday users overwhelmingly praise the sound bar's ability to make dialogue clearer and its hassle-free installation, with many calling it a noticeable upgrade over TV speakers; common complaints revolve around Bluetooth reliability, a small remote, aggressive power-saving shutdown, and the dusty fabric grille.
Professional reviewers commend the HT-S400 for delivering cinema-like sound and strong bass at a budget-friendly price, highlighting its virtual surround technology and clear dialogue reproduction. However, they point out the lack of auxiliary inputs and the absence of premium surround formats as notable drawbacks for audiophiles.
Everyday users overwhelmingly praise the soundbar for its dialogue clarity, punchy bass, and straightforward HDMI ARC setup. Common complaints revolve around missing USB/AUX inputs, limited surround depth, and the subwoofer's size in tight spaces.
“Night Mode is a useful feature for late-night viewing”
“The wireless subwoofer delivers surprisingly deep bass”
“Clear dialogue, especially in movies and TV shows”
