I own these and sure do love them. I use to like more of a lean sound but these are starting to change me. I Just listened to lumina 2 the other day in a showroom, while they were nice I decided to save my cash and then went home to listen to my polks :)
I just bought and installed my Polk R700 towers, R400 center and R200 rears.....you SHOULD definitely get these, they're fantastic (regardless of price). That said, for the cost, you simply can't do better. There's a reason that they're all so highly rated. I have an Emotiva XPA-3 Gen3 amp in route (should be here in a few days) to further compliment the front LCR. Rear surrounds will be powered (for now) by my Sony STR-DN1080 @ 165 watts/channel (2 channels driven), all anchored by my RSL Speedwoofer 12S. Can't wait to see what it's like with these things amplified, because guys, even without it, they sound sublime! Love the channel.
@@Idiotsincarshere No. The Fosi will make them make noise, but will not control the speakers so they can play loud without distorting, risking component damage. I have 5 of the Fosi amps and I really like them, and they do sound good, but not designed to power higher tier speakers and play them loudly. They are great for near field such as a desktop system or bedroom system where you won't be pushing volumes past 80-85db. I currently am using a Fosi TB10D with the upgraded 48V power supply in my bedroom system, powering a pair of Wharfedale Diamond 12.0 speakers (mismatched) but at low volumes, they system sounds great. Using a Wiim Pro streamer with a Schiit Audio DAC (Modi 3E), so I'm giving that little Fosi amp all the opportunity to sound good. Good luck and ask away.
@@ramondelgado6778 thanks! So instead of the Polk r700 I went with the less power hungry klipsch rp 8000F towers and just added an RSL 12S. Also have a wiim streamer. My verdict? Not bad for what I want! The Fosi gets warm but not overly. And I don’t listen at high volumes for long as I would drive my family crazy. Haha. One day I will upgrade to a real amp so I can add another sub and run the Polk. Need all the bass. What do you think of my setup?
After all of glowing reviews for the Polk Reserve R700, I finally pulled the trigger and ordered a pair. Like you, I've also been interested in the Sonus Fabers. I've heard they lean more bright, but with a lot of detail. I've seen the Sonetto V in person, and it's a gorgeous speaker. I haven't had a chance to hear it yet, but I'm not convinced it could be worth $5k a pair. Even the Lumina V is a stretch for what you're getting at over $3k per pair. I'm curious which ones you're getting and I can't wait to hear your review/comparison.
For around $600 on sale they are hard to beat value wise. I've tried them with a lot of different gear, and agree that the speakers are always good enough..not leaving me wanting more or feeling I'm missing something. It's kinda crazy. I think it's a great budget speaker for anyone wanting to start a hi fi journey. You could slowly build up your system around them and be happy along the way. Then maybe after you've surrounded them with more hi end components you could consider looking for better speakers if one desires. Im very content with these speakers.
@@SpecOfTech it’s going good. I took a little break this week. My equipment rack came in yesterday so that’s gonna be fun assembling but I hope to be done in a few weeks.
Hey, geeat review! Hoping you can give me some insight as a fellow Canadian... Its impossible to find good reviews on Paradigm 200b. How do the polk R200 compare to the paradigm 200b??
I like the r700 with the legend l400 center seems like it’s more matched since it has a midrange dedicated but that center is $$$$$ even the r700 are $$$$
Years ago I had set out to put together a good HT systen without breaking the bank. I had recently divorced and my stereo had been a point of contention among other things. I did my homework as i usually do and looked into Infinity Interlude speakers, IL 50s and IL10S with IL 25c. Partly due to the connection with Dr. Floyd Toole's work at Infinity. Got a great deal on the IL50s from Harmon outlet. Any way had a Rotel AV processor and picked up a Carver AV 705x power amplifier and the sound was incredible. Recently upgraded the preamp to a Marantz av7005 and the improvement was amazing. Total cost was $1500 and still have it today almost 20 years later. That's my journey. Didn't mean to be long winded.
I'm one of the seemingly many people who has the Polk tsi-200 ($199 pr.) and tsi-100 ($149 pr.) speakers and loves them. Stereo front and rear of a 2.1 system using a Svs sb-1000 sub, and my quite large, very rustic room is completely filled with wonderful sounding music. I'm using Crutchfield reviews as how people feel about them. All that said, I'm dying to test out the muscle of the r200!!
Thanks for the honest review. I have the R700s as mains with the L400 Center. The R700s saw off my much loved Monitor Audio GS60s. Take from that what you will but imo definitely one of the best bang for buck speakers out there. Cheers from Australia
So that piques my interest. I saw the previous comments about the guy who kept his Elac UniFi Ref over the R200. I didn't think those Elac's (I got for $650 B stock) sounded all that difference from my Monitor Audio Silver S2 bookshelves (paid $120 used and refinished cabinets), so I sold them. So now I'm curious about your experience with the R700 wiping the floor with the MA Golds. I for sure like my old Dahlquist DQ-18's ($65 used!) over the MA's. Would like to upgrade the MA's but have no idea what to try.... I guess I could try the R200 and maybe another pair or 2 from Amazon with free returns.... Ultimately though I prefer to buy used cuz i'm frugal
Nice Job B , I recently installed the new Polk HTS 10 subwoofer and was also impressed for the price . Looks elegant except I didn’t like the plastic base it’s on. I generally have stayed away from Polk in the past but my latest build had the inwall vanishing series that are also decent . So it does look Like Polk is improving and impressing . These speakers look very promising. Thanks for all you do 👍🏼
Thank you for the video, very nicely done! I am a small collection of headphones, DACs and HP amps. I would like to seek advises from you or anyone who sees this, thank you. I am thinking of a pair of speakers and I like the R700. However, I only have a room which has bookshelves along the walls and a work desk at the end. The room size is 4.25 x 3.15 meters, ceiling height is 2.48 meters (13 feet x 9’10” x 8’ ceiling). If I include the bookshelves and my work desk at the end, the space available is 3.9 length x 2.35 width x 8 meters ceiling (12’10” x 7’9” x 8’). Would the R700 be suitable or would it better to get the R200 with a subwoofer? I am using this purely for music as I already have the LG S95QR 9.1.5 soundbar system in my living room with the 75” TV. I have no space there for it because I custom-made a TV console with cabinets. I listen to a variety of genres hence the different headphones that are good at different things. For the speakers, I’d likely be listening to acoustic with vocalists, some live songs and would like to get the “concert feel” if possible. Advises please?
Great review! I was too also contemplating on building a home theater system on this line as I already have the r200s. I just noticed you have the aria 906 which was one of my choices before I got the r200 but never heard them. Now I don’t know what I should do especially when you review those. I’m torn apart lol
Thank you! I haven't spend a lot of time listening to the Focal's yet, but from what I did hear, they are cool (not warm) sounding speaker with boosted treble. Bass presentation is lacking for sure and the midrange is also on the cool side. If that type of sound signature is something that interests you, then keep them on your list. For me personally, I prefer the looks of the Aria 906, but I prefer the sound of the R200.
Yes that’s exactly what other reviewers have said about the aria line. It has a lot of detail probably due to the extended highs but lately I have been all about neutral sound. Even if I’m missing a little detail I’m sure the components I use towards my system can bring out the best on the r200s. Appreciate your thoughts on the aria, I think it’s gonna be a Polk r series home theater for me. I’ll wait on your Sonus Faber review too.
Polk's Reserve series is so great, so successful, I recommend them to everyone. If you want brighter high frequencies, you can shop more expensive brands like B&W and ProJect. But for well rounded speakers that look like they can last a lifetime, the Polk Reserve series is a great choice. One can choose these and never have to be tempted by other speakers again. As Andrew Robinson says, once you get speakers that are great, you can get off the audiophile hamster wheel. I got the Polk R500 towers to replace my 2006 Bowers & Wilkens DM 603 S2 towers, which were too bright. I am very happy with my switch. I got speakers that are more comfortable to listen to, and bring as much if not more bass.
I recently gave Polk a chance, not the ones in this video, but Polk. Entry level center cs10, looks great, sounds great coming from a boxed home theater center channel. My m215's drown it out when pushed, but this Polk center channel is "Good enough" for the $100.00 price tag.
The are more balanced than Klipsch, but that could also read a little less lively. It would depend on your taste. I do have the Klipsch RP600M II and have the SVS Ultra bookies on the way. I will be comparing both to the R200 in future videos. Based on memory I would say the R200 lean a little more towards the sound of the SVS, because they are both more balanced.
I had a pair of these. They did sound great. Had them up against Elac unifi ref. I ended up keeping the Elacs. They were a bit better built, three way and looked a bit nicer with the grills off. Work great in the small room they’re in now. Honestly, the polks had something loose in the cabinet rolling around so they HAD to go back but they sounded great. Thanks for this review!
@@SpecOfTech very true. I have my ELACS paired with an SVS 3000 micro , they don’t need it in my little man cave but it does fill in the low end nicely. Powering them with an Outlaw Audio receiver. Sounds great.
Some anecdotes on loose speaker parts: I bought a brand new pair of Polk RTiA9's & one of them had its entire port tube broken off & rolling around inside the cabinet... I could hear it rolling around even before I unboxed them. Also bought a brand new pair of Definitive Technology SR9080's & it had a dried up piece of glue rolling around inside the cabinet. I kept neither pairs of speakers.
Thanks brother! I haven't heard the B1+, but I would imagine they are a little more revealing with that folded ribbon tweeter. I would love to compare the R200's to the Emotiva speakers though, it would be a great comparison. I can only imagine the R700's, the bass on them must be beastly.
I have Paradigm SE 3 mains 😅with the SE C. I just picked up some Polk LSi7.s , an LSiC and five LC 65 FX in walls. My thoughts are that these can work with a new pair of Polk R700. Polk is under rated.
How do you think the R200 compare to Q350? Everything I've read about the R200 is flattering, execpt one review in the Audio Science Review, where the guy said it is a dull speaker. That made me a little suspicious and now I'm affraid of replacing my Q300s for the Polks.
They aren't dull one bit. I have a pair and a pair of Focal chorus 807v and I actually like the R 200s alot more . They do have a bit of a break in period so that was probably the reason why audio science review said that. They actually open up quit nicely
I have the Polk Signature S20's, I plan on doing a comparison. The simple answer is that I like the R200's better. I will of course go in more detail when I do the video.
I watch your videos and read your comments so looking forward to your comparison to the SVS Ultra Bookshelf / R200 comparison. I’m hearing amazing things regarding 2 channel listening with the R700. If you were to built a 7 channel HT (heights and subs being equal) would you go SVS Ultra ($5800) Polk Reserve ($4350)? I’d likely swap the R400 for the L400 ($5450 like the Aussie did in comments below) So price is relatively equal now. Like to hear your input being a former SVS Ultra user. Thanks & keep the great content coming!
That's a great question, but also a tough one lol. Full disclosure I haven't heard the R700's personally. Considering the price is relatively close, both speakers do sound fantastic with great bass, I think it comes down to looks and placement. Which aesthetic do you prefer? Where will they be placed, the R700 has a downward firing port which will make it easier to place close to a wall, versus the rear firing ports on the Ultra towers. One more note I can add; the Polk soft dome might be a little smoother than the Ultra aluminum dome.
Looks… Polk Towers, SVS Center & Surrounds. I am concerned with the SVS side firing towers with placement of front dual subs. I echo your statement with the tweeter… is that more noticeable on music and not a concern on movies?
I will definitely be working on that in the new year. How would you like to see them compared, anything specific? Would you like to see sound comparisons between them?
@@SpecOfTech I'm not sure about sound samples. I guess if you have high quality recording equipment then we can hopefully hear the differnces at least in bass, mid ,treble regardless of what speakers we are playing the vid back on. Of course care has to be taken to level the output so we aren't drawn to the louder speaker as can def happen. We would have to take your personal opinion on soundstage and imaging of course. Everyone is raving over these and the R700's. I wish I knew someone locally who had either of them so I could A/B against my bookshelfs (M.A. Silver S2) and floorstanders (Dahlquist DQ-18) that I got both used for less than $200 for both pairs! Those Paradigm's are GORGEOUS But I'm thinking the Polks are going to beat them in the bass dept.
Great review, I am at the same point as you with my theatre room, I am very happy with really good, the extra money for amazing just isn't worth it. When you're watching a movie, you won't really notice tje difference, if you focus on the sound to hear the difference, it pulls you out of the movies. When money becomes less of a concern when I am older, maybe I will search for end game quality, but even then, there will probably be something else that my money can bw spent on that provides more value for the price tag. This is why I have gone the DIY route with subs and also now with the base layer, really hard to beat the performance for the money and I don't feel I am missing anything that would take me another $15-$20,000 to find
Thanks brother! I agree, it's not that there is anything wrong with pursuing that 10 or 20%, but I am questioning whether the value is there for me personally. I have had $17,000 CAD Legacy speakers, and did I enjoy my system THAT MUC:H more with them...not really. Sure they were more detailed and had a very clean sound, but was it worth and extra $15000 over something like the R700's?? That is the question...
I haven't done a direct A/B of those 2 just yet, but the Focal are cooler, more detailed and the R200 are warmer, more smooth. I prefer the R200, but that is subjective of course.
@@SpecOfTech I find focal fatiguing long term. The r200's are just so right you don't look for anything after. I have Dynaudio focus 140 which I no longer listen to after the R200's arrived. It's so satisfying/lovely to listen to... Can't quite put a finger on what it is.
@@SpecOfTech yes absolutely... Just many can't get past the idea of Polk outdoing a salon speaker brand. Understandable, until you really try to get past your unwanted biases... then you'll realize higher price doesn't always mean it's better. ☺️ Of course the cabinetry won't be as fancy looking (though they aren't shabby either) . But if it's the sound you're after, the R200's are already in the audiophile category, good ones at that!
They are fairly flat and neutral. Dialogue is sort of middle of the road, it is quite clear, but it isn't the best I have hear. Then again where I heard better was on much more expensive speakers. It's is great for it's price.
The bass is thic a bit and the treble does break in a bit. I find them wonderful. I keep them on the stands alot more than my Focal chorus 807v. Out of the box compared to a few weeks later or doing a white noise to break them in the treble opens up nicely.
@@SpecOfTech Nice..I’m gonna load up and I don’t want to make a mistake. Here’s what I’m going to get initially. AD-8300, AT-300, D-6000, 2 Polk R200, MW ER27. What kind of speaker wire should I get. Also what are your bookshelf stands? I’ll get towers later. Thanks Barrett
@@dreadedtred Awesome man, wow you are going all out right off the bat. I am using speaker stands like these: amzn.to/3qEWPV2 . Mine are just slightly darker in color. Just make sure to measure and order the right height. You want the tweeters at about ear level. For speaker wire I just this stuff: amzn.to/3OPlgXP. Great quality and reasonably priced. If you want cables a little more fancy, these are what I use. They look really nice, I love them. amzn.to/3OQbqF3 Good luck buddy, enjoy the setup!
@@SpecOfTech I’m confused on this. If the processor has 16 channels and the amp has 11 channels, how do you get the other 5 processor channels power? Do you have to pair?
Holy Balls-I can’t believe a par of cables is 150.00WTF. Are they gold plated or something? 😂 Also what about the jumpers? Does any come with the amp or processor?
It was a stealth deal 😜. I just never made a video about selling them. Loved the speakers, but I also love trying new speakers and sharing it with everyone. I sold them and have Sonus Faber speakers coming soon.
Try Arendal Sound 1723 series. I think you'd find them to be a very good fit while sacrificing very little to the higher priced speakers you've had in your system.
I was very close to trying them, but then an opportunity arose for me to purchase the Sonus Faber Sonetto line. I chose SF, as I have always been curious about them. I still hope to try Arendal one day. I have a friend that has a full Arendal setup, and other than the fact he says they can be quite bright...he loves them.
@@SpecOfTech Excited to hear your thoughts on the sonettos, I almost bought a pair of 3/5 towers for my front speakers but ended up going with the Lumina 5's instead
@@SpecOfTech I never found them bright in my 2 channel setup and I'm sensitive to brightness typically. Svs ulta's for example were too much for me in the treble and I had to return them. I've heard people call the sonetto's bright also, but I didn't find the sonetto ii to be overly bright at all. I guess it goes to show how much every room and system components can vary things. I really enjoyed the sonettos and I'll be looking forward to your feedback! Thanks Barrett!
Polk audio have always made good speakers, but audiophiles try to convince themselves that Polk speakers are not HiFi, and try to find flaws on those speakers, they are biased by very expensive name brands.
To be honest, I would take the R200's over the Axioms. Admittedly, since the Axiom first impression video, I have been out of town working. I haven't had more time to play with their placement, toe in/out and amplification. Based on the first impressions, I much prefer the Polk speakers based on sound.
If I had unlimited money, I would have a dedicated theater room with JTR speakers and subwoofers. In addition to that I would have a 2 channel listening room with Paradigm Persona 9H towers.
Great video! as usual lol. Seems to me, that the higher up the speaker, the more problematic they become. Placement, 1/4 inch makes a difference.... Amplifier pairing, OMG its crazy, and type of music played. Some music is really great, some is ear splitting with poor recordings. Limits on what you listen to. My Legacy speakers, old Rock...ie Black Sabbath and such , ewww! But a lot is F@#!$ amazing! Speakers like the Polks probably will be great with all that and enjoyable to boot. Guess its all about compromise, and expectations. It is so easy to get caught in the high end audio Hamster wheel, running and running with out end! lol. What is the answer??????
Thanks brother! I don't think there is a right answer, because the goal post moves depending on the person. All I can say, is that the Polk Reserve speakers meet or exceed the goal post for audio fans, and most average listeners. They nailed the "sweet spot" for value versus performance with this one IMO. I can only imagine the value the R700's offer.
Um hello these are good!!! Get them !! For some reason the reporters don’t like Polk? Interesting because these speakers are as good as in the beginning sonnnas sucks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! And you don’t need 5 rs700? Seriously?
agreed brands like klipsch and polk are more commercial. but that doesn't mean they don't have it in them to make great speakers. have you even listened to these? you'll be surprised for the quality of the sound for the price, unless one is a price snob. these r200s have a fantastic tweeter and the bass can shock you. actually a pretty linear speaker. try and judge it.
To each their own, but judging something strictly by its name, IS NOT a realistic way to judge things. I am a firm believer of judging something after you've experienced it and without preconceived bias, that is the only way to be honest and fair.
Oh no not brand name , guess we can say Paradigm , JTR , Psa , Focal etc are all brand name to lol. Dumb statement made by a someone who knows nothing about audio
Given the VERY universal rave reviews of the R200's and assuming that you haven't let such dreadful things into your home and have no idea what they sound like, serves to make your comment pretty uninformed and weightless. But haters gonna hate.
![Noob To Max With DRAGON REWORK In Blox Fruits [FULL MOVIE]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/LnBMOinoOvA/mqdefault.jpg)
Nice clear review. R200 sound wide and grand. Sound is clear and musical. I think polk has the cleanest and most transparent sound.
I have these beauties R200+R400+R900 with DENON X6700 - absolutely a heaven and for both music and movies it gives extraordinary performance
Finally a Canadian content creator in HT! Watched a couple of your videos great content and well done. You've got a new subscriber!
Great to hear from a fellow Canadian, I appreciate you subscribing...cheers.
@@SpecOfTech nice to see pricing in Canadian dollars as well. Please continue to include that in your videos.
@@SpecOfTech We love Canada but we are Americans. And new subscribers!
I own these and sure do love them. I use to like more of a lean sound but these are starting to change me. I Just listened to lumina 2 the other day in a showroom, while they were nice I decided to save my cash and then went home to listen to my polks :)
The Reserves punch above their price. They are a solid performer (bookshelf & tower).
I just bought and installed my Polk R700 towers, R400 center and R200 rears.....you SHOULD definitely get these, they're fantastic (regardless of price). That said, for the cost, you simply can't do better. There's a reason that they're all so highly rated. I have an Emotiva XPA-3 Gen3 amp in route (should be here in a few days) to further compliment the front LCR. Rear surrounds will be powered (for now) by my Sony STR-DN1080 @ 165 watts/channel (2 channels driven), all anchored by my RSL Speedwoofer 12S. Can't wait to see what it's like with these things amplified, because guys, even without it, they sound sublime!
Love the channel.
Any update? And do you think my Fosi Audio would push them enough? 300x2 max or 150x2
@@Idiotsincarshere No. The Fosi will make them make noise, but will not control the speakers so they can play loud without distorting, risking component damage. I have 5 of the Fosi amps and I really like them, and they do sound good, but not designed to power higher tier speakers and play them loudly. They are great for near field such as a desktop system or bedroom system where you won't be pushing volumes past 80-85db. I currently am using a Fosi TB10D with the upgraded 48V power supply in my bedroom system, powering a pair of Wharfedale Diamond 12.0 speakers (mismatched) but at low volumes, they system sounds great. Using a Wiim Pro streamer with a Schiit Audio DAC (Modi 3E), so I'm giving that little Fosi amp all the opportunity to sound good. Good luck and ask away.
@@ramondelgado6778 thanks! So instead of the Polk r700 I went with the less power hungry klipsch rp 8000F towers and just added an RSL 12S. Also have a wiim streamer. My verdict? Not bad for what I want! The Fosi gets warm but not overly. And I don’t listen at high volumes for long as I would drive my family crazy. Haha. One day I will upgrade to a real amp so I can add another sub and run the Polk. Need all the bass. What do you think of my setup?
After all of glowing reviews for the Polk Reserve R700, I finally pulled the trigger and ordered a pair. Like you, I've also been interested in the Sonus Fabers. I've heard they lean more bright, but with a lot of detail. I've seen the Sonetto V in person, and it's a gorgeous speaker. I haven't had a chance to hear it yet, but I'm not convinced it could be worth $5k a pair. Even the Lumina V is a stretch for what you're getting at over $3k per pair. I'm curious which ones you're getting and I can't wait to hear your review/comparison.
For around $600 on sale they are hard to beat value wise. I've tried them with a lot of different gear, and agree that the speakers are always good enough..not leaving me wanting more or feeling I'm missing something. It's kinda crazy. I think it's a great budget speaker for anyone wanting to start a hi fi journey. You could slowly build up your system around them and be happy along the way. Then maybe after you've surrounded them with more hi end components you could consider looking for better speakers if one desires. Im very content with these speakers.
Exactly right, that is some solid advice!
Great video brother!!! You know I am partial to Polk! I’m glad they getting some positive feedback.
Thanks Chris! How's the home theater build coming along?
@@SpecOfTech it’s going good. I took a little break this week. My equipment rack came in yesterday so that’s gonna be fun assembling but I hope to be done in a few weeks.
@@myhometheater7029 Nice! Sounds like it's coming along. I'm looking forward to seeing the finished product.
Hey, geeat review! Hoping you can give me some insight as a fellow Canadian... Its impossible to find good reviews on Paradigm 200b.
How do the polk R200 compare to the paradigm 200b??
I like the r700 with the legend l400 center seems like it’s more matched since it has a midrange dedicated but that center is $$$$$ even the r700 are $$$$
Years ago I had set out to put together a good HT systen without breaking the bank. I had recently divorced and my stereo had been a point of contention among other things.
I did my homework as i usually do and looked into Infinity Interlude speakers, IL 50s and IL10S with IL 25c. Partly due to the connection with Dr. Floyd Toole's work at Infinity. Got a great deal on the IL50s from Harmon outlet. Any way had a Rotel AV processor and picked up a Carver AV 705x power amplifier and the sound was incredible. Recently upgraded the preamp to a Marantz av7005 and the improvement was amazing. Total cost was $1500 and still have it today almost 20 years later. That's my journey. Didn't mean to be long winded.
The end goal is to be happy with your system, if you have found audio happiness, that's all that matters. Thanks for sharing brother!
I'm one of the seemingly many people who has the Polk tsi-200 ($199 pr.) and tsi-100 ($149 pr.) speakers and loves them. Stereo front and rear of a 2.1 system using a Svs sb-1000 sub, and my quite large, very rustic room is completely filled with wonderful sounding music. I'm using Crutchfield reviews as how people feel about them. All that said, I'm dying to test out the muscle of the r200!!
Thanks for the honest review. I have the R700s as mains with the L400 Center. The R700s saw off my much loved Monitor Audio GS60s. Take from that what you will but imo definitely one of the best bang for buck speakers out there. Cheers from Australia
Cheers man, great to see Australia in the house.
How does the center sound? Does it have a huge powerful sound since it’s a big center?
@@roelcorral7720 I’m impressed with it for sure. Blends well with the R700s too. Feed it some decent power and you’re set.
So that piques my interest. I saw the previous comments about the guy who kept his Elac UniFi Ref over the R200. I didn't think those Elac's (I got for $650 B stock) sounded all that difference from my Monitor Audio Silver S2 bookshelves (paid $120 used and refinished cabinets), so I sold them. So now I'm curious about your experience with the R700 wiping the floor with the MA Golds. I for sure like my old Dahlquist DQ-18's ($65 used!) over the MA's. Would like to upgrade the MA's but have no idea what to try.... I guess I could try the R200 and maybe another pair or 2 from Amazon with free returns.... Ultimately though I prefer to buy used cuz i'm frugal
Haven't really seen any negative reviews of the Polk Reserve line. Polk getting back to the their high fidelity ancestry 🔥❤🔥❤
When it comes to the reserve line, I would say yes. They have a winning line up with the reserves IMO.
I can't in wall my rear speakers, can i do rc85i on the sides and these R200 in the back even though one is an 8" and the other is a 6.5"?
Would a Yamaha rxv6a power these very well?
how does the reserve lineup compare to arendal's?
Nice Job B , I recently installed the new Polk HTS 10 subwoofer and was also impressed for the price . Looks elegant except I didn’t like the plastic base it’s on. I generally have stayed away from Polk in the past but my latest build had the inwall vanishing series that are also decent . So it does look Like Polk is improving and impressing . These speakers look very promising. Thanks for all you do 👍🏼
Thanks brother, that's much appreciated. I think Polk has a winning line up with the Reserves. Great value and great performance.
Thank you for the video, very nicely done! I am a small collection of headphones, DACs and HP amps. I would like to seek advises from you or anyone who sees this, thank you.
I am thinking of a pair of speakers and I like the R700. However, I only have a room which has bookshelves along the walls and a work desk at the end. The room size is 4.25 x 3.15 meters, ceiling height is 2.48 meters (13 feet x 9’10” x 8’ ceiling). If I include the bookshelves and my work desk at the end, the space available is 3.9 length x 2.35 width x 8 meters ceiling (12’10” x 7’9” x 8’). Would the R700 be suitable or would it better to get the R200 with a subwoofer? I am using this purely for music as I already have the LG S95QR 9.1.5 soundbar system in my living room with the 75” TV. I have no space there for it because I custom-made a TV console with cabinets. I listen to a variety of genres hence the different headphones that are good at different things. For the speakers, I’d likely be listening to acoustic with vocalists, some live songs and would like to get the “concert feel” if possible. Advises please?
Used Dynaudio Emit 20. The polk r200 will be downgrade or upgrade?
Great review! I was too also contemplating on building a home theater system on this line as I already have the r200s. I just noticed you have the aria 906 which was one of my choices before I got the r200 but never heard them. Now I don’t know what I should do especially when you review those. I’m torn apart lol
Thank you!
I haven't spend a lot of time listening to the Focal's yet, but from what I did hear, they are cool (not warm) sounding speaker with boosted treble. Bass presentation is lacking for sure and the midrange is also on the cool side. If that type of sound signature is something that interests you, then keep them on your list. For me personally, I prefer the looks of the Aria 906, but I prefer the sound of the R200.
Yes that’s exactly what other reviewers have said about the aria line. It has a lot of detail probably due to the extended highs but lately I have been all about neutral sound. Even if I’m missing a little detail I’m sure the components I use towards my system can bring out the best on the r200s. Appreciate your thoughts on the aria, I think it’s gonna be a Polk r series home theater for me. I’ll wait on your Sonus Faber review too.
Polk's Reserve series is so great, so successful, I recommend them to everyone. If you want brighter high frequencies, you can shop more expensive brands like B&W and ProJect. But for well rounded speakers that look like they can last a lifetime, the Polk Reserve series is a great choice. One can choose these and never have to be tempted by other speakers again. As Andrew Robinson says, once you get speakers that are great, you can get off the audiophile hamster wheel. I got the Polk R500 towers to replace my 2006 Bowers & Wilkens DM 603 S2 towers, which were too bright. I am very happy with my switch. I got speakers that are more comfortable to listen to, and bring as much if not more bass.
I recently gave Polk a chance, not the ones in this video, but Polk. Entry level center cs10, looks great, sounds great coming from a boxed home theater center channel. My m215's drown it out when pushed, but this Polk center channel is "Good enough" for the $100.00 price tag.
what about the rp600m ii?
I know you had Klipsch RPs and SVS speakers, how do these compare?
The are more balanced than Klipsch, but that could also read a little less lively. It would depend on your taste. I do have the Klipsch RP600M II and have the SVS Ultra bookies on the way. I will be comparing both to the R200 in future videos. Based on memory I would say the R200 lean a little more towards the sound of the SVS, because they are both more balanced.
@@SpecOfTech did I really win?
@@TheRickatone No sorry its a scammer. I can't keep up with their scam posts.
@@SpecOfTech I figured
I had a pair of these. They did sound great. Had them up against Elac unifi ref.
I ended up keeping the Elacs. They were a bit better built, three way and looked a bit nicer with the grills off. Work great in the small room they’re in now.
Honestly, the polks had something loose in the cabinet rolling around so they HAD to go back but they sounded great.
Thanks for this review!
The Elac is another great speaker I want to review. There are a lot of great budget offerings right now.
@@SpecOfTech very true. I have my ELACS paired with an SVS 3000 micro , they don’t need it in my little man cave but it does fill in the low end nicely. Powering them with an Outlaw Audio receiver. Sounds great.
Some anecdotes on loose speaker parts: I bought a brand new pair of Polk RTiA9's & one of them had its entire port tube broken off & rolling around inside the cabinet... I could hear it rolling around even before I unboxed them. Also bought a brand new pair of Definitive Technology SR9080's & it had a dried up piece of glue rolling around inside the cabinet. I kept neither pairs of speakers.
good effortless review...so tempted to move to these from Emotiva B1+ for my HT setup.
Thanks brother! I haven't heard the B1+, but I would imagine they are a little more revealing with that folded ribbon tweeter. I would love to compare the R200's to the Emotiva speakers though, it would be a great comparison. I can only imagine the R700's, the bass on them must be beastly.
@@SpecOfTech highly recommend you get a pair in for review…..B1+ are really nice
I have Paradigm SE 3 mains 😅with the SE C. I just picked up some Polk LSi7.s , an LSiC and five LC 65 FX in walls. My thoughts are that these can work with a new pair of Polk R700. Polk is under rated.
How do you think the R200 compare to Q350? Everything I've read about the R200 is flattering, execpt one review in the Audio Science Review, where the guy said it is a dull speaker. That made me a little suspicious and now I'm affraid of replacing my Q300s for the Polks.
They aren't dull one bit. I have a pair and a pair of Focal chorus 807v and I actually like the R 200s alot more . They do have a bit of a break in period so that was probably the reason why audio science review said that. They actually open up quit nicely
How does this compare to the qacouatics concept 30 or the 5020?
Sorry, I have not heard either of those, so I can't give you an educated answer on that.
I have the Polk Audio Signature Series bookshelf speakers. How do those compare with these?
I have the Polk Signature S20's, I plan on doing a comparison. The simple answer is that I like the R200's better. I will of course go in more detail when I do the video.
I feel the same way. Do the Axioms sound any better than they did?
I have been out of town for work. I haven't had a chance to spend more time with them just yet.
I watch your videos and read your comments so looking forward to your comparison to the SVS Ultra Bookshelf / R200 comparison.
I’m hearing amazing things regarding 2 channel listening with the R700. If you were to built a 7 channel HT (heights and subs being equal) would you go SVS Ultra ($5800) Polk Reserve ($4350)?
I’d likely swap the R400 for the L400 ($5450 like the Aussie did in comments below) So price is relatively equal now. Like to hear your input being a former SVS Ultra user. Thanks & keep the great content coming!
That's a great question, but also a tough one lol. Full disclosure I haven't heard the R700's personally. Considering the price is relatively close, both speakers do sound fantastic with great bass, I think it comes down to looks and placement. Which aesthetic do you prefer? Where will they be placed, the R700 has a downward firing port which will make it easier to place close to a wall, versus the rear firing ports on the Ultra towers. One more note I can add; the Polk soft dome might be a little smoother than the Ultra aluminum dome.
Looks… Polk Towers, SVS Center & Surrounds. I am concerned with the SVS side firing towers with placement of front dual subs. I echo your statement with the tweeter… is that more noticeable on music and not a concern on movies?
Would love to hear your impressions in comparing these to the others you mentioned
I will definitely be working on that in the new year. How would you like to see them compared, anything specific? Would you like to see sound comparisons between them?
@@SpecOfTech I'm not sure about sound samples. I guess if you have high quality recording equipment then we can hopefully hear the differnces at least in bass, mid ,treble regardless of what speakers we are playing the vid back on. Of course care has to be taken to level the output so we aren't drawn to the louder speaker as can def happen. We would have to take your personal opinion on soundstage and imaging of course. Everyone is raving over these and the R700's. I wish I knew someone locally who had either of them so I could A/B against my bookshelfs (M.A. Silver S2) and floorstanders (Dahlquist DQ-18) that I got both used for less than $200 for both pairs! Those Paradigm's are GORGEOUS But I'm thinking the Polks are going to beat them in the bass dept.
Great review, I am at the same point as you with my theatre room, I am very happy with really good, the extra money for amazing just isn't worth it. When you're watching a movie, you won't really notice tje difference, if you focus on the sound to hear the difference, it pulls you out of the movies. When money becomes less of a concern when I am older, maybe I will search for end game quality, but even then, there will probably be something else that my money can bw spent on that provides more value for the price tag. This is why I have gone the DIY route with subs and also now with the base layer, really hard to beat the performance for the money and I don't feel I am missing anything that would take me another $15-$20,000 to find
Thanks brother! I agree, it's not that there is anything wrong with pursuing that 10 or 20%, but I am questioning whether the value is there for me personally. I have had $17,000 CAD Legacy speakers, and did I enjoy my system THAT MUC:H more with them...not really. Sure they were more detailed and had a very clean sound, but was it worth and extra $15000 over something like the R700's?? That is the question...
How do these compare to the focal 906 for you?
I haven't done a direct A/B of those 2 just yet, but the Focal are cooler, more detailed and the R200 are warmer, more smooth. I prefer the R200, but that is subjective of course.
@@SpecOfTech I find focal fatiguing long term.
The r200's are just so right you don't look for anything after.
I have Dynaudio focus 140 which I no longer listen to after the R200's arrived.
It's so satisfying/lovely to listen to... Can't quite put a finger on what it is.
@@Mega-zi7ys They are just a really good speaker, even with their price tag aside.
@@SpecOfTech yes absolutely... Just many can't get past the idea of Polk outdoing a salon speaker brand. Understandable, until you really try to get past your unwanted biases... then you'll realize higher price doesn't always mean it's better.
☺️ Of course the cabinetry won't be as fancy looking (though they aren't shabby either) . But if it's the sound you're after, the R200's are already in the audiophile category, good ones at that!
Are these v sounding? Also how would dialog sound?
They are fairly flat and neutral. Dialogue is sort of middle of the road, it is quite clear, but it isn't the best I have hear. Then again where I heard better was on much more expensive speakers. It's is great for it's price.
The bass is thic a bit and the treble does break in a bit. I find them wonderful. I keep them on the stands alot more than my Focal chorus 807v. Out of the box compared to a few weeks later or doing a white noise to break them in the treble opens up nicely.
Plz make a direct comparaison between those and aria 906
I will be working on that. They are 2 very different speakers, but the Polk may surprise you.
Can the Polk bookshelf handle the AD-300 ?
Absolutely they can.
@@SpecOfTech Nice..I’m gonna load up and I don’t want to make a mistake. Here’s what I’m going to get initially. AD-8300, AT-300, D-6000, 2 Polk R200, MW ER27.
What kind of speaker wire should I get. Also what are your bookshelf stands?
I’ll get towers later.
Thanks Barrett
@@dreadedtred Awesome man, wow you are going all out right off the bat. I am using speaker stands like these: amzn.to/3qEWPV2 . Mine are just slightly darker in color. Just make sure to measure and order the right height. You want the tweeters at about ear level.
For speaker wire I just this stuff: amzn.to/3OPlgXP. Great quality and reasonably priced.
If you want cables a little more fancy, these are what I use. They look really nice, I love them. amzn.to/3OQbqF3
Good luck buddy, enjoy the setup!
@@SpecOfTech I’m confused on this. If the processor has 16 channels and the amp has 11 channels, how do you get the other 5 processor channels power? Do you have to pair?
Holy Balls-I can’t believe a par of cables is 150.00WTF. Are they gold plated or something? 😂
Also what about the jumpers? Does any come with the amp or processor?
I’m still trying to find out where the founder towers went to lol. No video on you selling them but I don’t see them either
It was a stealth deal 😜. I just never made a video about selling them. Loved the speakers, but I also love trying new speakers and sharing it with everyone. I sold them and have Sonus Faber speakers coming soon.
@@SpecOfTech ahh nice, just keeping the content moving for the channel, I get that, can’t wait to see the new ones
Nice and honest!
Thanks for another honest review
A quarter of the price of the Sonus, you could buy two sets of the 700s and the 200s 😅
Try Arendal Sound 1723 series. I think you'd find them to be a very good fit while sacrificing very little to the higher priced speakers you've had in your system.
I was very close to trying them, but then an opportunity arose for me to purchase the Sonus Faber Sonetto line. I chose SF, as I have always been curious about them. I still hope to try Arendal one day. I have a friend that has a full Arendal setup, and other than the fact he says they can be quite bright...he loves them.
@@SpecOfTech Excited to hear your thoughts on the sonettos, I almost bought a pair of 3/5 towers for my front speakers but ended up going with the Lumina 5's instead
@@SpecOfTech I never found them bright in my 2 channel setup and I'm sensitive to brightness typically. Svs ulta's for example were too much for me in the treble and I had to return them. I've heard people call the sonetto's bright also, but I didn't find the sonetto ii to be overly bright at all. I guess it goes to show how much every room and system components can vary things. I really enjoyed the sonettos and I'll be looking forward to your feedback! Thanks Barrett!
@@MasterMark5 I really need to go and demo the lumina's.
@@MasterMark5 How do you like the Lumina V's. I have seen and read reviews and the Lumina's appear to perform above their price point.
800 dollars is budget?
Polk audio have always made good speakers, but audiophiles try to convince themselves that Polk speakers are not HiFi, and try to find flaws on those speakers, they are biased by very expensive name brands.
Correct speakers can't be that expensive what focal, b&w, other companies make. They just suck the blood of dumbos
Thanks for the review.How you compare them with Axiom speakers that you have?
To be honest, I would take the R200's over the Axioms. Admittedly, since the Axiom first impression video, I have been out of town working. I haven't had more time to play with their placement, toe in/out and amplification. Based on the first impressions, I much prefer the Polk speakers based on sound.
Thank you so much for your reply!!!Greetings from Greece!!!
What about the Polk r700?!!!!
They will provide similar sound to the R200, but will be much more capable in the lower octaves. I have no doubt the R700 are fantastic speakers.
REVIEW THEM PLEASE !!!!!!!!!!!! also ... Maybe compared with the paradigms 8000f....
PLEASE DO IT .. I am from Quebec and I follow your channel a lot
If you had unlimited money, would you have kept the Founder 120s as your primary LCR.
If I had unlimited money, I would have a dedicated theater room with JTR speakers and subwoofers. In addition to that I would have a 2 channel listening room with Paradigm Persona 9H towers.
Thank you!
How do I claim my prize
@@TeressaWI8777 sorry it was a scammer, I deleted it and reported them.
Great video! as usual lol. Seems to me, that the higher up the speaker, the more problematic they become. Placement, 1/4 inch makes a difference.... Amplifier pairing, OMG its crazy, and type of music played. Some music is really great, some is ear splitting with poor recordings. Limits on what you listen to. My Legacy speakers, old Rock...ie Black Sabbath and such , ewww! But a lot is F@#!$ amazing! Speakers like the Polks probably will be great with all that and enjoyable to boot. Guess its all about compromise, and expectations. It is so easy to get caught in the high end audio Hamster wheel, running and running with out end! lol. What is the answer??????
Thanks brother! I don't think there is a right answer, because the goal post moves depending on the person. All I can say, is that the Polk Reserve speakers meet or exceed the goal post for audio fans, and most average listeners. They nailed the "sweet spot" for value versus performance with this one IMO. I can only imagine the value the R700's offer.
SVS Ultra series are the best looking speakers, to me.
I like the look of them as well. I have a pair coming for review, can't wait to check them out.
I don't like them. Fanboy speaker's lol.
Oef when budget is way above what you can afford
Philharmonic BMR Monitors. Check them out. Youll be pleased
Great review, I like how you stay neutral.
Polk is beautiful
Um hello these are good!!! Get them !! For some reason the reporters don’t like Polk? Interesting because these speakers are as good as in the beginning sonnnas sucks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! And you don’t need 5 rs700? Seriously?
For my budget
Sorry but $599 is not a budget speaker! Budget speaker would probably be $200 and below.
Everyone has different budgets, and therefore, different definitions of a budget speaker...cheers.
Why ya’ll can’t play music people are actually familiar with?
@@dperr338 Because copyright music will demonetize the video
Wrap is awful in black.
To each their own, I don't mind it.
Well Polk is like Klipsch. They are just brand names. I wouldn't want any of their crap in my house, but maybe other folks like it.
agreed brands like klipsch and polk are more commercial. but that doesn't mean they don't have it in them to make great speakers. have you even listened to these? you'll be surprised for the quality of the sound for the price, unless one is a price snob. these r200s have a fantastic tweeter and the bass can shock you. actually a pretty linear speaker. try and judge it.
To each their own, but judging something strictly by its name, IS NOT a realistic way to judge things. I am a firm believer of judging something after you've experienced it and without preconceived bias, that is the only way to be honest and fair.
Oh no not brand name , guess we can say Paradigm , JTR , Psa , Focal etc are all brand name to lol. Dumb statement made by a someone who knows nothing about audio
Given the VERY universal rave reviews of the R200's and assuming that you haven't let such dreadful things into your home and have no idea what they sound like, serves to make your comment pretty uninformed and weightless. But haters gonna hate.
@@mhester99 Yes.