Polk Audio Signa S4
Score: 79/100
JBL Bar 500
Score: 77/100Rankings
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 500 offers a 5.1-channel experience with 590 W total power, Dolby Atmos and MultiBeam virtual surround, plus Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity. It misses HDMI eARC and true rear speakers, which can limit high-end audio fidelity. Best suited for apartment dwellers wanting immersive sound without the complexity of multiple speakers.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
6best | 5.1 | |
410 W | 590 Wbest | |
— | 10.24 inbest | |
1 inbest | — | |
5.9 inbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 19 lb | 6.173 lbbest |
3 yearsbest | 1 years | |
7best | 4 |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Power & Performance(1) | ||
Total Power Output (W) | 410 W | 590 W |
Audio(1) | ||
Audio Channels | 6 | 5.1 |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | Yes | 5.0 |
General(2) | ||
Warranty (years) | 3 years | 1 years |
Included Accessories | 7 | 4 |
Build & Design(2) | ||
System Weight (lb) | 19 lb | 6.1729 lb |
System Dimensions (H×W×D) (cm) | 2.4 x 41.2 x 3.7 in cm | 101.7×5.6×10.35 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.
Professional reviewers commend the JBL Bar 500 for its massive 590 W output, deep 35 Hz bass from the 10-inch wireless subwoofer, and the combination of MultiBeam™ and Dolby Atmos that creates convincing 3D sound without rear speakers. They also highlight PureVoice for crystal-clear dialogue and praise the easy wireless subwoofer setup via the JBL One app. However, they note the lack of HDMI eARC, limited input selection, and the inherent limitations of virtual surround compared to true discrete rear channels.
Everyday users love the thundering bass, immersive Atmos height effects, and clear dialogue that make movies and games more engaging. Common complaints focus on occasional Bluetooth lag, subwoofer hum when placed poorly, limited HDMI/optical inputs, and the desire for rear speakers to complete a true surround experience.
“huge soundstage”
“powerful bass that rumbles behind couch”
“The thundering bass from the 10" sub makes movies feel like a theater.”
