When it comes to adding deep bass to your home audio setup, Polk offers two distinct approaches with the $179 React Subwoofer and the $449 Signature Elite ES10. Let's dive into how these subwoofers differ and which might be right for your needs.
Home audio has evolved significantly in recent years, with soundbars becoming increasingly popular alongside traditional speaker setups. This has created two distinct subwoofer categories: wireless models designed for soundbar integration, and traditional powered subwoofers for component systems. Each approach has its merits, and Polk addresses both markets with these models.
The React Subwoofer, released in 2021, represents Polk's modern approach to simple home theater. It's designed specifically for wireless pairing with the Polk React soundbar, eliminating cable clutter and simplifying setup. The wireless connection works up to about 30 feet, giving you flexibility in placement.
In contrast, the ES10, launched in 2022, follows a more traditional design philosophy. Its wired connections (both LFE and stereo RCA inputs) and advanced controls make it more versatile for integration with any audio system. The ES10's variable crossover (50-160 Hz) and precise phase control (-135° to 180°) allow fine-tuning that the React can't match.
The ES10's larger 10-inch woofer and more powerful amplifier deliver notably better bass extension. While Polk doesn't publish the React's frequency response, testing suggests it rolls off around 35Hz. The ES10 reaches down to 22Hz (-10dB), providing those ultra-low frequencies that make movie explosions feel more realistic and pipe organs sound more complete.
The ES10's 200-watt Class D amplifier provides significant advantages in both output capability and dynamic range. This extra power becomes particularly noticeable during demanding movie scenes or music passages, where the ES10 maintains composure while the React might start to sound strained.
The ES10 incorporates several advanced features that contribute to better sound quality:
The React focuses more on convenience features:
In practice, these technical differences manifest in several ways:
The ES10 delivers more impactful explosions and effects, with better ability to pressurize larger rooms. The React performs admirably for its size but can't match the ES10's authority in action scenes.
For music, the ES10's superior control and extension become more apparent. Bass lines are more articulate, and drums have better impact and decay. The React handles music well enough for casual listening but doesn't deliver the same level of detail.
Both subwoofers enhance gaming experiences, but the ES10's additional power and extension make explosions and environmental effects more immersive.
The React Subwoofer delivers impressive performance for its price point, especially considering its wireless capability. It's an excellent value if you're pairing it with the React soundbar system.
The ES10's higher price brings significantly better performance and versatility. For dedicated home theater or music enthusiasts, the additional investment is justified by its superior capabilities.
Consider these key factors when choosing between the two:
The React Subwoofer excels as a purpose-built companion to Polk's soundbar, offering good performance and convenience at an attractive price. The ES10 delivers superior performance across the board and offers more flexibility, justifying its higher price for enthusiasts and those with larger rooms.
Choose the React if you want simple wireless integration with the Polk soundbar and good performance at a budget-friendly price. Opt for the ES10 if you're building a more serious home theater or music system and want the best performance Polk offers in this size class.
| Polk Audio React Subwoofer ($179) | Polk Signature Elite ES10 ($449) |
|---|---|
| Woofer Size - Larger drivers generally provide deeper bass | |
| 7-inch driver (adequate for small/medium rooms) | 10-inch driver (better for larger spaces) |
| Amplifier Power - Determines maximum volume and dynamic range | |
| Not specified (estimated 100W) | 200W Class D amplifier |
| Frequency Response - Lower numbers mean deeper bass | |
| Not specified (estimated 35Hz-150Hz) | 22Hz-375Hz (-10dB) |
| Connectivity - Affects system compatibility | |
| Wireless only (Polk React soundbar specific) | LFE and Stereo RCA inputs |
| Controls - More adjustment options enable better room integration | |
| Basic volume control through soundbar | Variable crossover (50-160Hz), phase control (-135° to 180°) |
| Cabinet Design - Affects sound quality and placement flexibility | |
| Bass reflex with down-firing port | Dual front-firing Power Ports with FEA-optimized bracing |
| Size (H x W x D) - Consider your space limitations | |
| 13.7" x 8.6" x 17.6" | 17.25" x 13.06" x 16.5" |
| Weight - Heavier usually means better build quality | |
| 16.5 lbs | 39 lbs |
| Special Features - Added functionality beyond basic performance | |
| Wireless setup, Alexa voice control, auto-EQ | Power Port Technology, 32-bit DSP, Dynamic Balance technology |
| Warranty - Longer coverage indicates manufacturer confidence | |
| 5 years (woofer), 1 year (amplifier) | 5 years (woofer), 3 years (amplifier) |
The $449 Polk Signature Elite ES10 offers superior performance with deeper bass and more power, but the $179 React Subwoofer is a better value if you're specifically using the Polk React soundbar.
The Polk React Subwoofer costs $179, while the Polk ES10 is priced at $449, a $270 difference.
No, the React Subwoofer is designed specifically for the Polk React soundbar, while the ES10 works with any audio system using standard connections.
The Polk ES10 is better for large rooms due to its 200W amplifier and 10-inch driver, compared to the React Subwoofer's smaller 7-inch driver.
The React Subwoofer has simple two-button wireless setup anyone can do, while the ES10 requires basic wired connections but is still relatively straightforward.
The Polk ES10 delivers deeper, more powerful bass down to 22Hz, outperforming the React Subwoofer in both depth and overall impact.
The ES10 is excellent for music with precise control and deep bass, while the React Subwoofer is adequate but primarily designed for movie/TV enhancement.
The ES10 has better amplifier coverage (3 years vs 1 year), while both units have 5-year woofer warranties.
The React Subwoofer works with Alexa through the Polk React soundbar, while the ES10 has no voice control capabilities.
The React Subwoofer is more apartment-friendly due to its smaller size and simpler wireless setup, though both can work well in apartment settings.
The ES10 offers comprehensive controls including variable crossover and phase adjustment, while the React Subwoofer is controlled through the soundbar settings.
Both are good for home theater, but the ES10 provides more immersive performance for serious home theater enthusiasts, while the React Subwoofer is better suited for soundbar-based systems.
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: techradar.com - crutchfield.com - amazonforum.com - tomsguide.com - richersounds.com - listenup.com - bestbuy.com - polkaudio.com - projectorscreen.com - polkaudio.com - crutchfield.com - worldwidestereo.com - safeandsoundhq.com - skybygramophone.com - walts.com - bestbuy.com - bhphotovideo.com
