Polk Audio Signa S4
Score: 79/100
JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass MK2
Score: 69/100Rankings
The Polk Signa S4 is a slim Dolby Atmos sound bar with a powerful 410 W output, VoiceAdjust dialogue enhancement, and a wireless subwoofer, delivering immersive audio for small to medium rooms. Its drawbacks include the lack of a standard HDMI input and occasional Bluetooth hiccups, which may affect connectivity flexibility. Best suited for budget-conscious viewers with 40-55" TVs who prioritize immersive sound and dialogue clarity.
The JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass (MK2) is a compact 2.1-channel soundbar with a wireless 6.5" subwoofer delivering 300 W total power and Dolby Digital virtual surround. Its limited channel layout and lack of HDMI inputs restrict full home-theater integration. Ideal for budget-conscious users seeking strong bass in small to medium rooms.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
6best | 2.1 | |
410 Wbest | 300 W | |
— | 6.5 inbest | |
1 inbest | 1 inbest | |
5.9 inbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 19 lbbest | 22 lb |
3 yearsbest | 1 years | |
7best | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Power & Performance(1) | ||
Total Power Output (W) | 410 W | 300 W |
Audio(1) | ||
Audio Channels | 6 | 2.1 |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | Yes | 4.2 |
General(1) | ||
Warranty (years) | 3 years | 1 years |
Build & Design(2) | ||
System Weight (lb) | 19 lb | 22.0 lb |
System Dimensions (H×W×D) (cm) | 2.4 x 41.2 x 3.7 in cm | 96.5×5.6×8.5 cm cm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Signa S4 for its impressive bass output, clear dialogue thanks to VoiceAdjust, and effective Atmos height effects, noting it offers strong value in the entry-level Atmos segment. However, they criticize the missing standard HDMI input and the need for careful bass balancing, suggesting it's best suited for users who prioritize sound impact over extensive connectivity.
Everyday users love the easy wireless sub setup, the room-shaking bass, and the clear speech reproduction, especially for movies and sports. Common complaints revolve around the sub's heft, occasional Bluetooth hiccups, and the inability to connect multiple HDMI sources, with some noting the bass can dominate mids if not tuned.
“huge soundstage”
“powerful bass that rumbles behind couch”
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.
