Why the lack of love for Polk?
Maybe my impression is way off... but it seems as I cruise the various home theater forums on the net, Polk is often left off the "lists" of suggested speakers that forum members recommend others seek out and try.
I wonder why?
I've been very happy with my Polks over the years.... whenever I suggested (on forums) that people give the RTi A's a shake... the reception is often underwhelming.
Just curious if anyone else has noticed this... thoughts?
I wonder why?
I've been very happy with my Polks over the years.... whenever I suggested (on forums) that people give the RTi A's a shake... the reception is often underwhelming.
Just curious if anyone else has noticed this... thoughts?
Post edited by 27dnast on
Comments
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All kinds of reasons I suppose. What brands do they prefer?Political Correctness'.........defined
"A doctrine fostered by a delusional, illogical minority and rabidly promoted by an unscrupulous mainstream media, which holds forth the proposition that it is entirely possible to pick up a t-u-r-d by the clean end."
President of Club Polk -
Polk for HT is a pretty good choice. For 2 channel, the new top of the line series does very well as 2 channel or ht..
The old LSI series was kind of in-between. Better than many might use for HT and 2 channel users
wanted a bit more perfomance. IF the new model had been out a few years earlier, they would of been mine.
I have Polk RTI's runnning my ht."The legitimate powers of government extend to such acts only as are injurious to others. But it does me no injury for my neighbour to say there are twenty gods, or no god. It neither picks my pocket nor breaks my leg." --Thomas Jefferson -
Maybe my impression is way off... but it seems as I cruise the various home theater forums on the net, .....
Are these the same forums where the majority think cables make no difference, and that all amps sound the same? If so then the reason why Polk is not often mentioned is because the members are not very bright.
Lumin X1 file player, Westminster Labs interconnect cable
Sony XA-5400ES SACD; Pass XP-22 pre; X600.5 amps
Magico S5 MKII Mcast Rose speakers; SPOD spikes
Shunyata Triton v3/Typhon QR on source, Denali 2000 (2) on amps
Shunyata Sigma XLR analog ICs, Sigma speaker cables
Shunyata Sigma HC (2), Sigma Analog, Sigma Digital, Z Anaconda (3) power cables
Mapleshade Samson V.3 four shelf solid maple rack, Micropoint brass footers
Three 20 amp circuits. -
The truth hurts....LOLPolitical Correctness'.........defined
"A doctrine fostered by a delusional, illogical minority and rabidly promoted by an unscrupulous mainstream media, which holds forth the proposition that it is entirely possible to pick up a t-u-r-d by the clean end."
President of Club Polk -
Are these the same forums where the majority think cables make no difference, and that all amps sound the same? If so then the reason why Polk is not often mentioned is because the members are not very bright.
Holy Crap Batman... I am beiginning to agree with you!:redface:The Gear... Carver "Statement" Mono-blocks, Mcintosh C2300 Arcam AVR20, Oppo UDP-203 4K Blu-ray player, Sony XBR70x850B 4k, Polk Audio Legend L800 with height modules, L400 Center Channel Polk audio AB800 "in-wall" surrounds. Marantz MM7025 stereo amp. Simaudio Moon 680d DSD
“When once a Republic is corrupted, there is no possibility of remedying any of the growing evils but by removing the corruption and restoring its lost principles; every other correction is either useless or a new evil.”— Thomas Jefferson -
nooshinjohn wrote: »Holy Crap Batman... I am beiginning to agree with you!:redface:
Like a broken clock, I can occasionally be right. :biggrin:Lumin X1 file player, Westminster Labs interconnect cable
Sony XA-5400ES SACD; Pass XP-22 pre; X600.5 amps
Magico S5 MKII Mcast Rose speakers; SPOD spikes
Shunyata Triton v3/Typhon QR on source, Denali 2000 (2) on amps
Shunyata Sigma XLR analog ICs, Sigma speaker cables
Shunyata Sigma HC (2), Sigma Analog, Sigma Digital, Z Anaconda (3) power cables
Mapleshade Samson V.3 four shelf solid maple rack, Micropoint brass footers
Three 20 amp circuits. -
As Levon Helm once said,
"Even a blind chicken gets a piece of corn once in a while."“Anti-intellectualism has been a constant thread winding its way through our political and cultural life, nurtured by the false notion that democracy means that 'my ignorance is just as good as your knowledge.'”
- Isaac Asimov
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bit.ly/stretchonphotojournalism
http://Vimeo.com/channels/stretchphoto -
well, to me, Polk is like Toyota/Honda. not like BMW or MB or Porsche...maybe that is why many don't put Polk on their list ?
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well, to me, Polk is like Toyota/Honda. not like BMW or MB or Porsche...maybe that is why many don't put Polk on their list ?
So, are saying more people use BMWs and Porches than Toyotas and Hondas? While that might be true in some areas, I doubt it applies to Internet audio forums. More than likely, it is somebody read something that said BMW is a good car, so they parrot it.Lumin X1 file player, Westminster Labs interconnect cable
Sony XA-5400ES SACD; Pass XP-22 pre; X600.5 amps
Magico S5 MKII Mcast Rose speakers; SPOD spikes
Shunyata Triton v3/Typhon QR on source, Denali 2000 (2) on amps
Shunyata Sigma XLR analog ICs, Sigma speaker cables
Shunyata Sigma HC (2), Sigma Analog, Sigma Digital, Z Anaconda (3) power cables
Mapleshade Samson V.3 four shelf solid maple rack, Micropoint brass footers
Three 20 amp circuits. -
no, I didn't say that. what I meant is what Polk is not special enough
Polk brand is for the mass, like Toyota. You can get it anywhere, anytime, at a very reasonable price. I was trying to reason there is a lack of love for Polk. -
Well I could agree to this at a point.... But being so does the other brands start to be a nick? And if so why Love them, and not Polk?no, I didn't say that. what I meant is what Polk is not special enough
Polk brand is for the mass, like Toyota. You can get it anywhere, anytime, at a very reasonable price. I was trying to reason there is a lack of love for Polk.
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why not love Polk? same reason why people love MB or BMW more than Toyota We all know Toyota is good for the money and can buy one if needed, but you will never like it as much as the MB or Lexus. Like it doesn't matter how good Hyundai is, people rather buy E Class instead of a Equus. VW tried that before and failed.
I think for people who plan to put out $5k for speakers, Polk is probably not the first brand they think of. Isn't that the reason why the SRT system didn't sell well at all? -
There are hundreds of speakers out there to choose from. Some forums get on clicks of this brand or that brand. It really doesn't matter as you can come and talk about polk audio. There is plenty of love here.
I'm a moderator in other forums and I see some funny things. I also see all the bandwagon people with what one says , many follow as to be true. It really doesn't matter.
Bottom line polk has been making great speakers for many years and people who like them like them. Some love to hate them as trash them but thats pretty true about many top brand speakers like Klipsch and B&W.Dan
My personal quest is to save to world of bad audio, one thread at a time. -
Well, some interesting responses.
In answer to your question about brands: Frequently, brands like Klipsch, SVS Sound, PSB, DefTech...
All of these seem to be the ones folks throw at newbies looking into starting up a HT.
I happen to love my RTiA set-up. But it leaves me wondering... would I have gotten more if I had put my $ into one of the above? I only ask because it really seems there is a dismissal of Polk.
I like the fact that Polk makes a range or products at various price points. I guess, tho, that potentially hurts their branding image... -
I think one of the main reasons for lack of Polk love is that Polk has always been very low key when it comes to advertising, why this is the case I don't know. When I used to buy audio magazines I NEVER saw any ads for Polk. It's only been in the last few years that Polk has been putting their name out there more.
But regardless of this fact, they are still a very successful company with an outstanding reputation for extremely well made speakers with different price points that also excels in customer service.
I don't really care what anyone else on any other forum might think of Polk Audio, I know what I like & what I want in a speaker and Polk provides it. I find it a total waste of time to second guess myself after the fact just because others are talking about other speakers. I do my research, try to get my ear on the product then make my decision & stick to it.Marantz AV-7705 PrePro, Classé 5 channel 200wpc Amp, Oppo 103 BluRay, Rotel RCD-1072 CDP, Sony XBR-49X800E TV, Polk S60 Main Speakers, Polk ES30 Center Channel, Polk S15 Surround Speakers SVS SB12-NSD x2 -
Another reason may be the Polk philosophy of trying to give the consumer a better speaker at a "lower" price. To hit the spot in the market which allows the greatest number of people to actually "afford" good sound. Elitests "hate" that, and will frown on any company that targets the middle. lol
But look at a laundry list of Polk speakers from the classic Monitor 7s and 10s on. You don't have to be Diamond Jim to buy a pair!
cnhCurrently orbiting Bowie's Blackstar.!
Polk Lsi-7s, Def Tech 8" sub, HK 3490, HK HD 990 (CDP/DAC), AKG Q701s
[sig. changed on a monthly basis as I rotate in and out of my stash] -
well, to me, Polk is like Toyota/Honda. not like BMW or MB or Porsche...maybe that is why many don't put Polk on their list ?
I'm sure Toyota/Honda sells more cars then Polk does speakers..Polk Audio SDA 2.3tl Fully Hot Rodded. 😎
SVS SB16 X2
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MIT Shotgun 3 cables throughout / Except TT, and PC’s -
Bottom line polk has been making great speakers for many years and people who like them like them. Some love to hate them as trash them but thats pretty true about many top brand speakers like Klipsch and B&W.
And the same for Cars as well..
What I have come to love about Polk is it gave me a hobby (with the help from a lot of good people here as well) and taught me a lot. There will always be better this or that. I also feel I have grown a lot from being a part of this Fourm..
Enjoy and have funPolk Audio SDA 2.3tl Fully Hot Rodded. 😎
SVS SB16 X2
Cary SLP-05/Ultimate Upgrade.
Cary SA-500.1 ES Amps
Cary DMS 800PV Network
OPPO UDP 205/ModWright Modification
VPI Scout TT / Dynavector 20x2
Jolida JD9 Fully Modified
VPI MW-1 Cyclone RCM
MIT Shotgun 3 cables throughout / Except TT, and PC’s -
All I can say is that I have a friend from England who is very well of means, and spends big bucks on audio equipment. Big, big bucks (well, pounds....). He visited me earlier this year, and was blown away by my modded SDA-1C's. Polk speakers rock, at least the vintage ones. I can't really speak for the newer ones. If you like them, enjoy them. Who cares what other people say....
I disagree with the car analogy. I'd say my SDA's are in the BMW or Mercedes class. Yeah, there are people who want to drive Bentleys and Ferraris, let them enjoy. But SDA's ain't no Honda Civic of a loudspeaker.Good music, a good source, and good power can make SDA's sing. Tubes make them dance. -
Are these the same forums where the majority think cables make no difference, and that all amps sound the same? If so then the reason why Polk is not often mentioned is because the members are not very bright.
Excuse me while I scoff.
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nspindel,
The problem is that SDA speakers are history, so to speak. Consumers won't buy these anymore because of size and very low WAF. Even Polk admitted that fact. yes, I agree with you that SDA speakers "were" like BMW/MB...like what? 20+ yrs ago?. But at the moment, it's hard to put Polk up there when they also sell cheap speakers at Fry's and Bestbuy, where normal consumers see them.
I think the better marketing method is creating a new brand to sell higher quality speakers. The exact reason why we have Lexus, Acura, Infiniti. It's all about badging here. -
Another reason may be the Polk philosophy of trying to give the consumer a better speaker at a "lower" price. To hit the spot in the market which allows the greatest number of people to actually "afford" good sound. Elitests "hate" that, and will frown on any company that targets the middle. lol
But look at a laundry list of Polk speakers from the classic Monitor 7s and 10s on. You don't have to be Diamond Jim to buy a pair!
cnh
Precisely why they have been so successful!nspindel,
The problem is that SDA speakers are history, so to speak. Consumers won't buy these anymore because of size and very low WAF. Even Polk admitted that fact. yes, I agree with you that SDA speakers "were" like BMW/MB...like what? 20+ yrs ago?. But at the moment, it's hard to put Polk up there when they also sell cheap speakers at Fry's and Bestbuy, where normal consumers see them.
I think the better marketing method is creating a new brand to sell higher quality speakers. The exact reason why we have Lexus, Acura, Infiniti. It's all about badging here.
You have just proven CNH's point about elitests.
For me and god knows how many others, there is absolutely NOTHING wrong with the quality of Polks speakers. They are nice and solid and heavy and are able to take a lot of abuse and still just keep right on sounding good. When you step up the ladder as far as components to hook them up to they sound even better. Just about every other piece of gear I have outpriced my RTA-8Ts but they are hanging right in there and sounding better than ever.
I'm not one of these people who have to be constantly climbing up the ladder, I firmly believe in maxing out the full potential of what I have, until I'm ready to move on to something else usually years later.Marantz AV-7705 PrePro, Classé 5 channel 200wpc Amp, Oppo 103 BluRay, Rotel RCD-1072 CDP, Sony XBR-49X800E TV, Polk S60 Main Speakers, Polk ES30 Center Channel, Polk S15 Surround Speakers SVS SB12-NSD x2 -
it seems as I cruise the various home theater forums on the net, Polk is often left off the "lists" of suggested speakers that forum members recommend others seek out and try. I wonder why? Just curious if anyone else has noticed this... thoughts?
Because they are not totally cool, like us. -
nspindel,
The problem is that SDA speakers are history, so to speak. Consumers won't buy these anymore because of size and very low WAF. Even Polk admitted that fact.
Key word, consumers because there are still plenty of really large speakers being made and sold, but you won't find them at the box stores.Political Correctness'.........defined
"A doctrine fostered by a delusional, illogical minority and rabidly promoted by an unscrupulous mainstream media, which holds forth the proposition that it is entirely possible to pick up a t-u-r-d by the clean end."
President of Club Polk -
People find ways to trash the big dogs to keep themselfs from feeling comformist or common. If polk sold in low volumes, then more buyers would come out for it's nich appeal and not for it's price per overall qualities. It would make poeple feel special and different.
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Froman outsider looking in ,the Klipsch crowd can do no wrong w/ their horn loaded speakers and their Heritage stuff goes for big $.For me on no paycheck coming I've asked and received advice on Polk towers vs.Vandersteens, Ohm/Walsh 2xs the forementioned Klipsch KLF 20S,KEFs and even DCM TIME FRAME 250S.So where to go price, taste w/ looks a big deal to most and performance. I'm not loyal to a single brand but the Klipsch smalls vs Polks at the same size and price point the Klipsch won out.I went to an Electronics Expo store near me and they would not even put on the polks ,they were pushing KEFc something very hard.2chl- Adcom GFA- 555-Onkyo P-3150v pre/amp- JVC-QL-A200 tt- Denon 1940 ci cdp- Adcom GFS-6 -Modded '87 SDA 2Bs - Dynamat Ext.- BH-5- X-Overs VR-3, RDO-194 tweeters, Larry's Rings, Speakon/Neutrik I/C- Cherry stain tops Advent Maestros,Ohm model E
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well, to me, Polk is like Toyota/Honda. not like BMW or MB or Porsche...maybe that is why many don't put Polk on their list ?
How many companies have been as strong as Polk for value across it's whole line? Not many. You hear of a lot of worthy "mainstream" competitors getting similar treatment (Klipsch, Infinity,JBL..........) but.....Polk has a huge market share due to great relationships with retailer distribution,customer service is TOPS,quality is there,great specials to retailers,etc... All kinds of great speakers out there, but many don't have as many of these strengths going for how many years now? Value with a consistent quality level can leave the cork sniffers bored (w/predjudice).....but Polk proves it holds it's own year after year after year after year...with great competition working hard to be in their position. I'm no fan boy for any speaker company.....it's very pleasing to see things done well though and you can't tell me Polk isn't worthy of consideration in a sound room....I know better. People do business with people they like...."People like Polk." -
well, to me, Polk is like Toyota/Honda. not like BMW or MB or Porsche...maybe that is why many don't put Polk on their list ?
How many companies have been as strong as Polk for value across it's whole line? Not many. You hear of a lot of worthy "mainstream" competitors getting similar treatment (Klipsch, Infinity,JBL..........) but.....Polk has a huge market share due to great relationships with retailer distribution,customer service is TOPS,quality is there,great specials to retailers,etc... All kinds of great speakers out there, but many don't have as many of these strengths going for how many years now? Value with a consistent quality level can leave the cork sniffers bored.....but Polk proves it holds it's own year after year after year after year...with great competition working hard to be in their position. I'm no fan boy for any speaker company.....it's very pleasing to see things done well though. People do business with people they like...."People like Polk." -
I agree completely. Polk is very smart to have this forum as a part of their official site. It shows that they stand behind their products and aren't afraid of people posting negative opinions of their speakers.
I wish more companies would provide an "official forum" like this, it's incredibly useful when doing research and seeking out advice.What I have come to love about Polk is it gave me a hobby (with the help from a lot of good people here as well) and taught me a lot. There will always be better this or that. I also feel I have grown a lot from being a part of this Fourm.. -
Bottled under a different [European] name & in small quantities- just as they are, I'm sure there'd be many happy takers of Polk products at a price in the multiples. One man's opinion.Main:
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