Home theater audio has evolved dramatically in recent years, with soundbars becoming increasingly sophisticated. Modern soundbars now offer features that were once exclusive to complex multi-speaker setups, making them an attractive option for both casual viewers and home theater enthusiasts.
The key technologies driving this evolution are Dolby Atmos (which creates a three-dimensional sound field, including overhead effects) and advanced room calibration systems that optimize sound for your specific space. These features, combined with wireless connectivity and smart home integration, have transformed soundbars from simple TV speakers into complete audio solutions.
The Polk MagniFi Max AX, released in early 2023, represents a traditional premium soundbar approach with dedicated speakers for each audio channel. In contrast, the Samsung HW-S700D, launched in 2024, takes a more modern, software-driven approach with virtual sound processing and smart integration.
The Polk system uses a 3.1.2 configuration, meaning:
The Samsung opts for a 3.1 setup:
This fundamental difference affects how each system creates immersive sound. The Polk uses physical speakers to bounce sound off your ceiling, creating genuine overhead effects. The Samsung relies on sophisticated audio processing to simulate height effects, which can be surprisingly effective but generally doesn't match the realism of dedicated speakers.
Having tested both systems with popular Dolby Atmos content like "Dune" and "The Mandalorian," the differences become clear. The Polk MagniFi Max AX delivers more convincing overhead effects during scenes with helicopters or spacecraft. However, the Samsung's SpaceFit Sound Pro (which automatically calibrates audio based on your room's acoustics) provides notably clearer dialogue and more balanced overall sound.
For music, the differences are less pronounced. Both systems handle stereo content well, though they take different approaches:
The Polk's larger subwoofer provides deeper bass, which benefits both music and movies. However, the Samsung's more compact subwoofer still delivers impressive low-end performance for its size.
Here's where the Samsung HW-S700D really shines. It offers:
The Polk offers more basic wireless features:
Both soundbars are relatively straightforward to install, but they target different scenarios:
The Samsung's ultra-slim design makes it ideal for wall mounting under thin TVs, with a depth that matches modern displays. Its wireless subwoofer can be placed anywhere in the room.
The Polk is larger but includes more connection options, with multiple HDMI inputs allowing it to serve as an AV hub. This can be particularly useful if you have multiple devices like gaming consoles and streaming boxes.
At roughly half the price of the Polk, the Samsung offers impressive value, especially if you're already invested in the Samsung ecosystem. However, the Polk's additional channels and dedicated height speakers justify its premium price for serious home theater enthusiasts.
The soundbar market has seen significant advances in recent years:
Both of these models represent the latest in their respective approaches. The Samsung emphasizes software processing and smart features, while the Polk focuses on traditional audio performance through physical speaker arrays.
Both the Polk MagniFi Max AX and Samsung HW-S700D represent excellent choices for different users. The Polk offers superior audio performance through traditional means, while the Samsung provides impressive sound with modern conveniences at a more accessible price point.
For most users, the Samsung's combination of features, performance, and value makes it an excellent choice. However, if you're building a serious home theater setup and want the best possible audio performance, the Polk's additional channels and dedicated height speakers make it worth the premium price.
Remember that room size, ceiling height, and existing equipment should all factor into your decision. The best soundbar is the one that fits your specific needs, space, and budget while providing the features you'll actually use.
| Polk Audio MagniFi Max AX ($799) | Samsung HW-S700D ($398) |
|---|---|
| Channel Configuration - Determines how precisely sound is positioned around you | |
| 3.1.2 with dedicated height speakers | 3.1 with virtual height effects |
| Audio Processing - Controls the quality of surround sound effects | |
| True Dolby Atmos via physical speakers | Virtual Atmos processing, better for smaller rooms |
| Subwoofer Size - Larger woofers generally produce deeper, more impactful bass | |
| 10-inch wireless subwoofer | 6.5-inch wireless subwoofer |
| Connectivity - More inputs allow connecting multiple devices directly | |
| 3 HDMI inputs + 1 eARC output | 1 HDMI eARC only |
| Smart Features - Important for integration with other devices | |
| Basic streaming (AirPlay, Bluetooth) | Full smart home integration, voice assistants, Q-Symphony |
| Room Calibration - Helps optimize sound for your specific space | |
| None | SpaceFit Sound Pro automatic calibration |
| Profile Height - Critical for TVs mounted low or viewing from bed | |
| 2.7 inches tall | 2.1 inches tall (ultra-slim design) |
| Power Output - Higher wattage generally means more volume headroom | |
| 620W total system power | 440W total system power |
The Polk MagniFi Max AX ($799) is superior for movies due to its dedicated height speakers and true Dolby Atmos support. While the Samsung HW-S700D ($398) offers virtual Atmos, the Polk's physical speakers provide more convincing overhead effects.
Both perform well, but the Samsung HW-S700D edges ahead with its Active Voice Amplifier technology and SpaceFit Sound Pro room calibration, making dialogue consistently clear across different content types.
For dedicated home theater enthusiasts, the Polk MagniFi Max AX justifies its higher price with superior audio performance and additional HDMI inputs. However, casual users may find the Samsung HW-S700D offers better value.
The Samsung HW-S700D features Game Mode Pro and lower latency, making it slightly better for gaming. However, the Polk's additional height channels can provide more immersive gaming audio.
No, but you'll get additional features like Q-Symphony and wireless Dolby Atmos only with compatible Samsung TVs.
The Polk MagniFi Max AX delivers stronger bass with its larger 10-inch subwoofer compared to Samsung's 6.5-inch unit.
Yes, both can be wall-mounted, but the Samsung HW-S700D's ultra-slim profile makes it particularly suitable for wall mounting under thin TVs.
The Polk MagniFi Max AX offers better music performance with wider stereo separation and stronger bass, though the Samsung HW-S700D provides well-balanced sound.
Room calibration, available in the Samsung HW-S700D, can significantly improve sound quality by adjusting to your room's acoustics. It's particularly valuable in challenging room layouts.
The Samsung HW-S700D is better suited for small rooms with its slim profile and room calibration features, while the Polk might be overkill in tight spaces.
The Polk MagniFi Max AX supports optional wireless rear speakers for a full surround setup, while the Samsung requires specific compatible rear speaker models.
The Samsung HW-S700D offers more comprehensive smart features including voice assistant support and SmartThings integration, while the Polk MagniFi Max AX provides basic streaming capabilities.
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