The Signa S4 is Polk’s first Dolby Atmos soundbar and features seven drivers plus a wireless subwoofer.
Polk Audio’s soundbars (or ‘sound bar systems’ as the company calls them) are well liked here at AVForums and we’ve reviewed two in the last 12 months, the Polk React and the previous model in the Signa Series, the S3. However, one thing they’ve always been missing to fully create an immersive audio experience is Dolby Atmos support.
That has now been rectified with Polk’s first Dolby Atmos compatible soundbar, the Signa S4, which features seven drivers, two of which are up-firing speakers to deliver 3D surround sound audio. A wireless subwoofer is also on hand to deliver the low end heft for a cinematic audio experience.
As well as the upward firing speakers, the S4 features a discrete centre channel and optimised left/right tweeters and woofers for a wide sound stage. The centre channel works in conjunction with Polk’s patented Voice Adjust technology to improve dialogue intelligibility, especially useful during intense action scenes, sporting events and or when viewing with the volume at lower levels.
Additionally, the Signa S4 can also up-mix non-Dolby Atmos content rendering height, surround and centre channels to create a virtual Dolby Atmos experience.
The included wireless subwoofer can connect at distances up to 10m, making placement more convenient and the Bass Adjust feature controls low frequency output on both the soundbar and subwoofer, generating an optimised blend of bass for maximum impact at any desired level.
There are additional preset modes for movie or music listening as well as Night Mode which automatically attenuates bass output and accentuates dialogue clarity so as not to disturb the rest of the house during late night viewing sessions.
The Signa S4 is straightforward to set up using the included HDMI and optical cables such that, with the built-in eARC support, native Dolby Atmos streams can be passed while Bluetooth allows compatible devices to connect wirelessly for streaming. The S4 is pre-programmed to work with most TV remotes and the low profile, fabric covered design should suit most decors while providing both tabletop or wall mounting options.
Frank Sterns, president of Polk Audio, commented, “The Polk Signa S4 sound bar delivers superb Dolby Atmos surround sound that enhances everything from movie special effects to music ambiance to games.
"Whether you’re getting a sound bar for the first time, or looking to upgrade to Dolby Atmos, the Signa S4 delivers on Polk's promise of exceptional sound quality coupled with great value.”
The Polk Audio Signa S4 is available from 15th December at www.polkaudio.com or through authorised Polk resellers across Europe for £329 (€349 / $349.99)
Source: Polk Audio
Image Source: Polk Audio