Let's dive into these two popular bookshelf speakers and help you make the right choice for your setup. Both JBL Stage 2 240B ($239.95) and Polk Audio Signature Elite ES20 ($347.13) are compelling options, but they serve different needs and listening styles.
Bookshelf speakers remain a cornerstone of quality home audio, offering a sweet spot between performance and practicality. They're called "bookshelf" speakers because they're designed to work well when elevated off the floor, though ironically, you shouldn't actually place them on a bookshelf (the enclosed space can muddy the sound).
Modern bookshelf speakers have evolved significantly from their predecessors. Today's models incorporate advanced materials, sophisticated crossover networks (which split audio between high and low-frequency drivers), and computer-modeled cabinet designs. These improvements deliver better sound from smaller enclosures than ever before.
The JBL Stage 2 240B and Polk ES20 represent different philosophies in bookshelf speaker design. JBL opted for a compact 4.5-inch woofer (the larger driver that handles lower frequencies) paired with their latest waveguide technology (which helps control how high frequencies spread into the room). Polk went bigger with a 6.5-inch woofer and their signature Power Port bass technology.
The size difference between these speakers is significant:
This size difference affects both placement options and sound character. The JBL's smaller footprint makes it more versatile for tight spaces, while the Polk demands more room but rewards you with fuller bass response.
The 240B showcases JBL's heritage in professional audio. Its High-Definition Imaging (HDI) waveguide - technology borrowed from their premium speakers - helps create precise stereo imaging (the ability to place sounds accurately in space). The sound is detailed and clear, with particular strength in the midrange where vocals and most instruments live.
However, physics can't be cheated - the smaller woofer means bass is limited. While impressive for its size, serious music or movie enthusiasts will want to add a subwoofer for full-range sound.
The ES20 takes a different approach, using a larger woofer and Polk's Power Port technology to deliver more natural bass without a subwoofer. The sound is warmer and more room-filling, though perhaps not as precise in imaging as the JBL.
The ES20's Terylene dome tweeter (the smaller driver handling high frequencies) extends response up to 40kHz - well beyond human hearing but potentially beneficial for high-resolution audio formats.
When considering value, look beyond the price tag. The JBL Stage 2 240B is less expensive initially but might require a subwoofer investment for full-range sound. The Polk ES20 costs more but could be a complete solution depending on your needs.
Both speakers are well-built and should last many years. They use quality materials in their construction:
Both speakers excel in home theater use, but in different ways:
The JBL 240B shines in smaller rooms and makes an excellent choice for surround channels. Its precise imaging helps with movie effects placement, and the compact size is perfect for mounting on walls or stands.
The Polk ES20 works brilliantly as front left/right channels in a home theater setup. Its fuller bass response means it integrates more naturally with a center channel speaker, and it can handle movie soundtracks convincingly even without a subwoofer.
In practice, both speakers perform well beyond their price points. The JBL's clarity makes it excellent for near-field listening (like on a desk or in a small room), while the Polk's bigger sound works better in medium-sized rooms where you sit farther from the speakers.
Consider these key factors when choosing:
Both speakers represent excellent value in their category. The JBL Stage 2 240B excels in precision and detail, perfect for smaller spaces and those planning a subwoofer-based system. The Polk ES20 offers a more complete solution out of the box, ideal for medium rooms and those wanting fuller sound without additional components.
Choose based on your specific needs rather than specs alone. Consider your room size, listening preferences, and whether you plan to add more components later. Either choice will provide years of enjoyable listening when properly matched to your space and needs.
| JBL Stage 2 240B ($239.95) | Polk Audio ES20 ($347.13) |
|---|---|
| Woofer Size - Determines bass capability and overall volume potential | |
| 4.5" (compact but limited bass) | 6.5" (fuller bass, better standalone) |
| Sensitivity - How efficiently it converts power to volume | |
| 85dB @ 2.83V/1m (needs more power) | 86dB @ 2.83V/1m (slightly more efficient) |
| Frequency Response - Range of sounds the speaker can reproduce | |
| 53Hz-25kHz (needs subwoofer for deep bass) | 41Hz-40kHz (better natural bass extension) |
| Size (HxWxD) - Consider your space constraints | |
| 10.7" x 6.9" x 8.5" (great for small spaces) | 14.8" x 8.5" x 13.8" (needs more room) |
| Weight - Impacts stability and cabinet resonance | |
| 10.1 lbs/pair (easier placement options) | 17 lbs/pair (more robust cabinet) |
| Power Handling - Maximum recommended amplifier power | |
| 20-125W (flexible with most amplifiers) | 20-125W (equally flexible) |
| Special Features - Unique technologies that impact sound | |
| HDI waveguide (superior imaging/detail) | Power Port (enhanced bass output) |
| Recommended Room Size - Where they perform best | |
| Small rooms/desktop (under 150 sq ft) | Medium rooms (150-300 sq ft) |
For home theater use, the Polk ES20 ($347.13) has an advantage due to its fuller bass response and larger drivers. However, the JBL Stage 2 240B ($239.95) makes excellent surround speakers due to their compact size and precise imaging.
The JBL 240B definitely needs a subwoofer for full-range sound. The Polk ES20 can work without one in smaller rooms, though adding a subwoofer will still improve overall performance for both models.
The JBL Stage 2 240B is ideal for small rooms due to its compact size (10.7" tall). The Polk ES20 at 14.8" tall needs more space to perform optimally.
Both perform well with music, but differently. The JBL 240B offers more detailed sound and better imaging, while the Polk ES20 provides fuller bass and a warmer overall sound signature.
While the JBL 240B is cheaper, you'll likely need a subwoofer. The Polk ES20 costs more but offers a more complete solution out of the box, making it potentially better value depending on your needs.
The JBL Stage 2 240B comes with integrated wall mount brackets. The Polk ES20 requires separate mounting hardware but can be wall-mounted safely.
Both speakers handle dialogue well, but the JBL 240B's HDI waveguide technology gives it a slight edge in vocal clarity and detail.
The JBL 240B's compact size makes it ideal for surround channels. The Polk ES20 can work as surrounds but might be oversized for some setups.
Both speakers work with 20-125 watts per channel. The Polk ES20 is slightly more efficient, requiring less power to reach the same volume levels.
Both work well for gaming. The JBL 240B offers precise positioning of sound effects, while the Polk ES20 provides more impact for explosions and action sequences.
Both can work in a Dolby Atmos setup. The JBL 240B's smaller size makes it easier to position as height channels, while the Polk ES20 excels as main channels in an Atmos configuration.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: bestbuy.com - jbl.com - erinsaudiocorner.com - crutchfield.com - mm.jbl.com - audioadvice.com - crutchfield.com - nfm.com - jbl.com - kh.jbl.com - av-connection.com - audiosciencereview.com - polkaudio.com - pcrichard.com - crutchfield.com - forum.audiogon.com - ooberpad.com - safeandsoundhq.com - pcrichard.com - polkaudio.com - polkaudio.com - sweetwater.com
