Sony HT-S40R
Score: 76/100
Polk Audio Signa S4
Score: 73/100Rankings
The Sony HT-S40R provides a solid 5.1 surround experience with wireless rear speakers and strong power, but its lack of HDMI inputs and object-based audio formats keep it from being a premium solution.
The Signa S4 is a low-profile 3.1.2-channel soundbar with a wireless subwoofer that brings Dolby Atmos immersion and clear dialogue to midsize rooms, while keeping setup simple and cost-effective.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
600 Wbest | — | |
0 | 1best | |
1best | 1best | |
5best | 5best | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.454 kgbest | 8.6 kg |
12 months | 36 monthsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.5 Wbest | — |
180 Wbest | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Video(2) | ||
HDMI Inputs | 0 | 1 |
HDMI eARC Support | false | true |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Overall Weight (kg) | 0.454 kg | 8.6 kg |
Warranty & Support(1) | ||
Warranty Period (months) | 12 months | 36 months |
Audio(2) | ||
Channel Configuration | 5.1 | 3.1.2 |
Supported Audio Formats | Dolby Digital, LPCM 2ch, Dolby Dual Mono | Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos, DTS Virtual:X |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers consider the HT-S40R a compelling mid-range option, emphasizing its true 5.1 architecture and high power, while noting the missing HDMI inputs and lack of Dolby Atmos/DTS:X as drawbacks.
Everyday users appreciate the straightforward installation, immersive surround effect and reliable Bluetooth streaming, though they complain about the small remote, the wired subwoofer and occasional rear-speaker sync issues.
Professional reviewers praise the Signa S4 for delivering high-value Dolby Atmos performance, clear dialogue, and a hassle-free setup, while noting the lack of smart-home integration, expandability, and network streaming as drawbacks.
Everyday users overwhelmingly appreciate the soundbar's dialogue clarity, powerful subwoofer, and quick installation, though they note the non-backlit remote, absence of voice-assistant support, and occasional Bluetooth disconnects.
“Easy Setup: Many users appreciate the color-coded connections and quick installation.”
“Dialogue is crystal clear, even in loud action scenes.”
“The subwoofer hits harder than expected for its size.”
