Polk Audio Signa S3
Score: 75/100
Hisense HS5100
Score: 74/100Rankings
The Polk Signa S3 offers a low-profile 2.1-channel soundbar with built-in Chromecast and Google Assistant, providing easy streaming and dialogue enhancement. Its limited channel configuration and lack of detailed power specifications restrict surround-sound performance. Best suited for users who want a simple, affordable upgrade for modest TV setups.
The Hisense HS5100 provides a 5.1-channel, 540 W soundbar system with a wireless subwoofer and multiple sound modes. Wired rear speakers and occasional subwoofer drop-outs are drawbacks, and it lacks Wi-Fi. It targets budget-friendly home-theater fans wanting full surround without a high price.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
— | 6best | |
— | 540 Wbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 1.8 kg | 1.59 kgbest |
1 yearsbest | — | |
— | 6best | |
90 cm | 90.17 cmbest | |
5.5 cm | 9.144 cmbest | |
8.2 cmbest | 6.096 cm |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio(2) | ||
Audio Channels | 2.1 | 6 |
Supported Audio Formats | Dolby Digital, DTS Virtual Surround | Dolby Digital Plus, DTS:X |
Design(4) | ||
Soundbar Weight (kg) | 1.8 kg | 1.59 kg |
Soundbar Width (cm) | 90.0 cm | 90.17 cm |
Soundbar Height (cm) | 5.5 cm | 9.144 cm |
Soundbar Depth (cm) | 8.2 cm | 6.096 cm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Signa S3 for its low-profile aesthetics, straightforward setup, and useful features like VoiceAdjust and built-in Chromecast, while noting its limitation to 2.1 channels and the lack of detailed power specs.
Everyday users appreciate the simple plug-and-play installation, clear dialogue from VoiceAdjust, and the solid bass from the wireless subwoofer, with no major complaints beyond the system's basic channel configuration.
Professional reviewers highlight the HS5100 as a strong value proposition, noting its impressive bass from a compact wireless subwoofer, lightweight construction that fits easily on TV stands, and a suite of sound modes that tailor audio for movies, games and music. They consider it a worthwhile investment for budget-conscious home-theater enthusiasts and state that it holds its own against similarly priced competitors.
Everyday users appreciate the immersive surround sound, the lightweight and space-saving design, and the unexpectedly deep bass from the small subwoofer. However, many complain about intermittent subwoofer drop-outs and the need to wire rear speakers, which detracts from the promised wireless experience.
“this will be the last purchase with this company”
