POLK Audio has released two new speakers lines, the Monitor XT and Signature Elite, catering to both stereo and multi-channels needs. The Monitor XT is Polk’s entry-level line, aimed at movie, music and gaming enthusiasts; the Elite is for the fussier listener.
The XT line comprises two bookshelf models (XT15 and XT20), two tower units (XT60 and XT70), two centre channels (XT30 and the slimmer XT35), the active XT12 subwoofer and XT90 Atmos units.
The Elite range has the ES15 compact bookshelf models, ES0 standmount, ES50/ES55/ES60 tower units, ES30/ES35 centre channels and ES surround/height speakers.
“Monitor XT provides all listeners an entry point into Polk Audio’s 50 years’ worth of experience building iconic loudspeakers that deliver clarity, high-output and effortless bass,” says Polk president Frank Sterns.
“As high-resolution audio is becoming the norm on music streaming services and ‘Direct to Streaming’ movie releases in Dolby Atmos proliferate, Monitor XT offers consumers an affordable way to take advantage of improved quality source material,” he adds.
The Monitor XT range “takes advantage of Polk’s latest advances in superior sounding, but still cost-effective, woofers, tweeters, crossovers, and cabinetry, all designed to deliver dynamic, life-like sound and effortless bass from high-resolution and Dolby Atmos streaming services.”
All Monitor XT models, finished in Midnight Black, are “timbre-matched to provide consistent sound in any array, making it simple to mix and match models… for maximum versatility, Monitor XT loudspeakers are engineered to deliver powerful, clear audio from nearly any amplifier or receiver, whether 4 or 8 ohms.”
The range uses Terylene dome tweeters and dynamically balanced woofers paired with responsive passive radiators (in the floor-standing models). These drivers, in combination with meticulously engineered crossover networks, provide the “sparkling detail, lifelike midrange and punchy tonal delivery with ultra-low distortion customers have come to expect from Polk Audio.”
The MXT12 powered subwoofer features a 12-inch woofer and an ultra-efficient 100-watt Class AB amplifier that delivers bass down to 24Hz.
As for the Signature Elite range, Stern says: “We set out to take a great speaker line and make it even better. Signature Elite builds on the incredibly strong Signature platform and meticulously re-engineers it to maximise high-resolution audio capabilities as well as cinematic experiences for music and movie lovers alike.”
All Signature Elite models are available in black, white-washed or contemporary walnut finishes.
The press release gives us more details:
“Each Signature Elite model uses advanced driver technology, including Dynamic Balance optimised, mica-fortified, polypropylene woofers and Terylene dome tweeters alongside newly developed precision crossover networks. Additionally, Polk Audio engineers spent a tremendous amount of effort reevaluating and improving the cabinet bracing designs to further eliminate unwanted resonances.
“All models feature Polk’s patented Power Port technology, which helps smooth air flow from the speaker’s down-firing bass port into the listening area. As a result, port noise is reduced, providing more detailed and extended bass response and a more open airy midrange than competitive designs.
“The new Signature Elite design is also more sensitive than the previous Signature Series, making them an ideal match for nearly any amplifier or receiver, whether 4 or 8 ohms. All models are timbre-matched, Hi-Res Audio Certified, accessibly priced and built to exceed Polk’s rigorous quality-testing process.”
As for the cabinets, this line features, “new stronger, more rigid and acoustically inert Medite MDF enclosures that were refined through numerous revisions, subjected to extensive laser vibrometer testing, and then carefully reinforced to ensure optimal bracing and critical damping. Their resulting non-resonant construction has reduced unwanted internal standing waves, minimising audible coloration versus the previous Signature.”
Both the Monitor XT and Signature Elite speakers should be in stores later this month.
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