When it comes to upgrading your TV's sound without filling your room with speakers, soundbars have become the go-to solution. Today, we're comparing two compelling options: the budget-friendly Polk Audio Signa S4 ($269.85) and the premium JBL Bar 1000 ($899.95). While both aim to deliver immersive audio, they take notably different approaches to reaching that goal.
Soundbars have come a long way from their simple stereo beginnings. Modern systems now incorporate sophisticated technologies like Dolby Atmos, which adds height channels to create a three-dimensional sound field. This means sounds can appear to come from above, making experiences like helicopter flybys or rainfall feel remarkably realistic.
The Polk Signa S4, released in early 2022, represents an accessible entry point into Atmos technology. Meanwhile, the JBL Bar 1000, launched in late 2022, showcases just how far soundbar technology has advanced, with features like detachable wireless rear speakers and advanced room calibration.
The fundamental difference between these systems lies in their channel configurations. The Polk offers a 3.1.2 setup, meaning:
The JBL steps up to a 7.1.4 configuration:
This difference isn't just about numbers – it fundamentally affects how sound moves around your room. While the Polk creates a convincing front soundstage with some height effects, the JBL can precisely position sounds all around you, including behind and above.
Bass handling shows another clear distinction. The Polk includes a compact wireless subwoofer that delivers satisfying low frequencies for most content. The JBL counters with a larger 10-inch subwoofer that can dig deeper into the bass range and maintain better control during complex passages. This becomes particularly noticeable during explosive movie scenes or bass-heavy music.
For movie watching, both systems handle dialogue well, but through different approaches:
The JBL's additional speakers create a more convincing surround field, especially beneficial in large rooms or when watching action-packed content. However, the Polk's performance in smaller spaces remains impressive, particularly considering its price point.
Music handling reveals interesting contrasts:
The JBL's superior processing and additional channels don't always translate to better music performance – some users might prefer the Polk's simpler, more direct approach for stereo content.
The Polk wins for simplicity with its two-piece design. Place the soundbar, position the subwoofer, and you're largely done. The JBL requires more thought regarding rear speaker placement and charging management for the detachable units. However, this additional complexity enables true surround sound without permanent wiring.
Both systems offer HDMI eARC for high-quality audio connection to your TV, but the JBL adds:
These additions make the JBL more versatile for whole-home audio and streaming, while the Polk focuses on its core home theater duties.
The price difference between these systems ($630) could buy you a decent 4K TV, so it's crucial to consider what you're getting for the premium:
Consider these key factors when choosing between the Polk Signa S4 and JBL Bar 1000:
The final decision often comes down to room size and budget. In smaller spaces, the Polk's performance nearly matches the JBL's, making it an excellent value. For larger rooms or when seeking the most immersive experience possible, the JBL's additional channels and features justify its premium price.
Both systems represent significant improvements over built-in TV speakers, but they target different segments of the market. The Polk democratizes Atmos sound while the JBL showcases what's possible when cost constraints are relaxed.
For most users, the Polk will provide a satisfying upgrade that leaves money in the budget for other home theater improvements. However, if you're building a premium home theater setup and want the best possible sound without the complexity of separate components, the JBL Bar 1000 delivers a truly impressive experience that justifies its higher price tag.
| Polk Audio Signa S4 | JBL Bar 1000 |
|---|---|
| Price - Total cost including all components | |
| $269.85 | $899.95 |
| Channel Configuration - Determines surround sound capability | |
| 3.1.2 channels (basic Atmos setup) | 7.1.4 channels (full surround with height) |
| Power Output - Impacts maximum volume and clarity | |
| Not specified by manufacturer | 880W total system power |
| Subwoofer Size - Affects bass depth and impact | |
| 5.9" driver (compact design) | 10" driver (deeper bass extension) |
| Height Channels - Critical for Dolby Atmos effects | |
| 2 up-firing drivers in soundbar | 4 up-firing drivers (2 in bar, 2 in rear speakers) |
| Wireless Connectivity - Streaming options | |
| Bluetooth only | WiFi, Bluetooth, Chromecast, AirPlay |
| Room Size Suitability - Based on power and coverage | |
| Small to medium rooms (up to 200 sq ft) | Medium to large rooms (200+ sq ft) |
| Additional Features - Extra functionality | |
| VoiceAdjust technology, Night mode | PureVoice technology, MultiBeam surround, detachable rear speakers |
| Setup Complexity - Time and effort required | |
| Simple two-piece setup | More complex with rear speaker placement |
| Audio Format Support - Content compatibility | |
| Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital | Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Dolby Digital |
| Rear Channel Implementation - Surround sound approach | |
| Virtual surround only | True surround with physical rear speakers |
The JBL Bar 1000 provides superior movie performance with its 7.1.4 channel configuration and true surround sound from detachable rear speakers. However, the Polk Signa S4 still offers good movie performance at a much lower price point, especially in smaller rooms.
The Polk Signa S4 costs $269.85, while the JBL Bar 1000 is priced at $899.95 - a difference of $630.
The Polk Signa S4 is ideal for small rooms up to 200 square feet, offering excellent value and appropriate power output. The JBL Bar 1000 might be overkill for very small spaces.
Yes, both support Dolby Atmos, but implement it differently. The Polk Signa S4 uses a 3.1.2 setup with two height channels, while the JBL Bar 1000 offers four height channels in a 7.1.4 configuration for more immersive overhead effects.
The JBL Bar 1000 delivers stronger bass performance with its larger 10" subwoofer compared to the Polk Signa S4's 5.9" subwoofer, making it better for action movies and bass-heavy content.
For larger rooms and serious home theater enthusiasts, the JBL Bar 1000's superior performance and features justify its higher price. However, the Polk Signa S4 offers excellent value for casual viewers and smaller spaces.
The Polk Signa S4 has a simpler two-piece setup, while the JBL Bar 1000 requires more setup time due to its detachable rear speakers and additional calibration options.
Both support Bluetooth streaming, but the JBL Bar 1000 offers additional options including WiFi, Chromecast, and AirPlay. The Polk Signa S4 is limited to Bluetooth only.
Both perform well, with the Polk Signa S4 using VoiceAdjust technology and the JBL Bar 1000 featuring PureVoice technology. Both systems make dialogue clear and easy to understand.
The JBL Bar 1000 includes detachable rear speakers for true surround sound, while the Polk Signa S4 creates virtual surround effects. True rear speakers generally provide more immersive surround sound.
The JBL Bar 1000 offers better gaming performance with its more precise sound positioning and stronger bass response, though the Polk Signa S4 still provides good gaming audio at a lower price point.
The Polk Signa S4 works best in rooms up to 200 square feet, while the JBL Bar 1000 can effectively fill larger spaces of 300+ square feet with its more powerful output and additional speakers.
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: soundandvision.com - audioholics.com - crutchfield.com - cnet.com - richersounds.com - crutchfield.com - rtings.com - polkaudio.com - walmart.com - polkaudio.com - crutchfield.com - youtube.com - profx.com - zdnet.com - jbl.com - jbl.com - pcrichard.com - rtings.com - d21buns5ku92am.cloudfront.net - ro.harmanaudio.com - target.com - harmanaudio.com - dell.com - mm.jbl.com - dolby.com - jbl.com.my - videoandaudiocenter.com
