Polk Audio TL1 Black
Score: 76/100
Hisense HS5100
Score: 74/100Rankings
The Polk TL1 is a compact center-channel speaker that excels at clear dialogue and offers a wide power-handling range. Its trade-offs include shallow bass extension and lack of built-in amplification or wireless features. Best suited for budget 5.1 setups in small rooms where space is limited.
Hisense HS5100 delivers a budget-friendly 5.1-channel experience with 540 W output and a wireless 6.5-inch subwoofer, offering powerful sound and flexible placement. However, rear speakers must be wired and subwoofer dropouts can affect reliability. It fits well for cost-conscious movie and gaming fans.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
1 | 5.1best | |
— | 540 Wbest | |
89 dBbest | — | |
8 Ωbest | — | |
0.5 inbest | — | |
— | 6.5 inbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 3.35 lbbest | 3.505 lb |
5 yearsbest | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio(1) | ||
Audio Channels | 1 | 5.1 |
Build & Design(2) | ||
System Weight (lb) | 3.35 lb | 3.5053499658 lb |
System Dimensions (H×W×D) (cm) | 4.0 x 15.0 x 3.5 in cm | 90.2×9.1×6.1 cm cm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
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.
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”
