Polk AudioMonitor XT20 Bookshelf Speakers, Hi-Res Certified, Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Compatible, High-Resolution Performance - Black

These Polk XT20 Speakers were purchased to replace a pair of Wharfedale Diamond 12.0s, which, while excellent, were found to be quite fatiguing over extended listening periods. The Polks also had a superior frequency response range, 38hz - 40,000hz vs 70hz - 20,000hz, for the Wharfedales, which should, on paper at least, give a much more pronounced bass response. In terms of build quality, the Polks were very well-finished (the fine-textured overall black cabinet finishing, a pleasing and modern looking alternative to the common 'black ash' vinyl wraps which adorn so many entry-level bookshelf speakers). The Polks did not have as solid a cabinet as the Wharfedales (an indication of thicker MDF construction and superior internal bracing). The Polks binding posts are also not as high quality as the Wharfedale's, which also boasts twin sets of terminals on each speaker for 'bi-amping'.In terms of performance, however, the Polks were exceptional for what is a budget price. Clear and crisp high treble without being overly bright (with only a slight trace of high-end roll-off) and punchy, tight bass at medium to high volumes with no obvious signs of audible distortion. As with most speakers in this price range, lower volumes did lack a little definition. Only the mid-range performance was slightly subdued, in what was an overall fine attempt at creating a convincing soundstage. Being Rear-Ported, correct placement is also essential to contributing to a balanced soundstage.When tested with a Cambridge Audio Axa35 Amplifier (8 ohm) and Axc25 CD Player, the speakers were easier to drive than their 87db sensitivity suggested, and would undoubtedly be more so with a more powerful integrated amplifier than the Cambridge. The Polks also responded extremely well to EQ, and are actually, by default, quite neutral, so can be 'tuned' quite effectively through Tone Control.For this reviewer, the bass response - while excellent for a budget bookshelf speaker - is certainly not as powerful as other reviews seem to suggest, and a subwoofer would certainly enhance lower frequency response.However, most pleasing of all, is the XT20s ability to provide consistent non-fatiguing listening for extended periods. This was evident through a diverse range of different genres from electronic EDM to Hard Rock, and is, perhaps, the speaker's greatest attribute in an entry-level speaker marketplace where listening fatigue is often cited as the reason why individuals upgrade to the next mid-price level.Overall, an aesthetically pleasing, well-made budget speaker with surprising acoustic performance and sonic dynamics throughout.For the extremely competitive price of £189, you can't really go wrong.

I must admit, I had no initial plans to upgrade my surround speakers. But after purchasing this set, I was so impressed that I ended up buying a Polk center speaker and subwoofer to complete the setup.The High-Resolution audio capability truly stood out—it’s what won me over. For the performance it delivers at its price point, it’s absolutely worth the investment.Highly recommended for anyone looking to upgrade their home audio experience.

incredible sound and beautiful build. slightly smaller than expected, perfect monitors for computer desk

Sound quality is good.

I checked the Q&A for some info, as it was confusing, someone said, They were sold as a pair and came in 1 box, So I though bargain and hit buy now button immediately, Found out after waiting 6 days late, they're indeed sold as 1 item, ordered another 1, then had to wait a further 3 more late days delivery for the second 1 to arrive, but with that said and done, the wait was worth it.After using the old speakers for 20 years, I decided it was time to upgrade, when I noticed they were not sounding like they used to. I'm glad I did, The Polk MXT60 towers are just so much better than the old set, I finally have the level of sound I used to have and then some.I've noticed Polk MXT60, have a much brighter high end, seems like the tweeters are boosted, but I like that and even turned up the 16Khz a tad more via the EQ for left and right channels, The bass response from these are so good, I'm definitely sold on the passive radiator enclosure, I've even turned down the volume on the Sub (Polk MXT12), quite a lot.Buying the Polk MXT 12 sub, in the first place, is what made me realize that, the old speakers were in fact getting tired. I've since gotten the Polk XT30 (centre speaker), I'm also going to replace the rears to Polk XT20's at a later date.

These speakers actually work with Atmos and anything that needs height effects. I used to have some onkyo ones but removed them as they did nothing. I can only comment on these speakers being used as height speakers but I am delighted with these. The sound quality is really good but I have to mention the build quality is amazing. I had an accident when putting these up and one fell from around 10 feet😥 I was certain they were going to be broken but asides from some exterior cosmetic damage the speaker is working fine 😃

I finally got to set up the speakers after they arrived a long while back. Delivery was quick, items arrived in perfect condition. Set up. Was a breeze, Im using a Yamaha AVR. The sound is very good and the asthetics to match. The front mesh serves as a good barrier but unlike to see the drivers as they push they move the air. It's sounds really good, I highly recommend these speakers especially if you watch movies. It was a good buy.

This item in my opinion is excellent. The sound quality is beautiful. I think this is good value for the price.