Vizio SB36514-G6
Score: 80/100
Polk Audio Signa S4
Score: 79/100Rankings
The VIZIO SB36514-G6 is a 5.1.4 home-theater system featuring a wireless 6-inch subwoofer, Wi-Fi, Chromecast and Google Assistant for comprehensive streaming. Its relatively narrow front soundstage and lack of DTS X support are trade-offs. Suited for small-to-medium rooms wanting true surround with easy setup.
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.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
— | 6best | |
— | 410 Wbest | |
— | 1 inbest | |
6 inbest | 5.9 in | |
| ↓ lower better | 0.001 lbbest | 19 lb |
— | 3 yearsbest | |
— | 7best |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio(1) | ||
Subwoofer Size (in) | 6 in | 5.9 in |
Build & Design(2) | ||
System Weight (lb) | 0.000625 lb | 19 lb |
System Dimensions (H×W×D) (cm) | 8.10×6.35×91.44 cm cm | 2.4 x 41.2 x 3.7 in cm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the Vizio SB36514-G6 for its rich, detailed audio, immersive 3D Atmos experience, and hassle-free installation with all required accessories. They also note its effective upmixing capabilities and value-focused pricing, while pointing out the narrow front soundstage, non-backlit remote, and missing DTS X support as drawbacks.
Everyday users generally praise the bold bass, true surround and height effects, and the convenience of built-in Chromecast and Bluetooth streaming. Recurring criticisms focus on the remote's dim LCD, the limited front soundstage due to the 36-inch bar, and the lack of advanced sound-mode options.
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”
