The home audio landscape has changed dramatically in recent years. Soundbars have evolved from simple TV speaker upgrades to sophisticated audio systems that can deliver immersive sound experiences. Today's buyers face an interesting choice between two compelling options: the Polk Signa S4 ($269.85) and Yamaha SR-B40A ($265.95).
Before diving into specifics, let's understand what makes modern soundbars special. Both these systems use advanced digital signal processing (DSP) - think of it as a tiny computer that manipulates sound to create more immersive experiences. They also employ wireless subwoofers, which are separate speakers dedicated to producing deep bass sounds that you can feel as much as hear.
The Polk Signa S4, released in early 2022, represents a significant step forward in affordable Dolby Atmos technology. Its sleek 41.2-inch width houses seven drivers, including upward-firing speakers that bounce sound off your ceiling to create height effects. The included wireless subwoofer, while compact at 5.9 inches, is designed for precise rather than overwhelming bass.
Yamaha's SR-B40A, launched in August 2023, takes a different approach. Its slightly shorter frame contains fewer drivers but pairs with a more substantial 6.25-inch subwoofer. The build quality on both units is solid, though Yamaha's latest-generation design shows some refinements in materials and finish.
The Polk Signa S4 shines with movies, particularly those with Dolby Atmos soundtracks. The dedicated height channels create a more convincing sense of sounds coming from above - imagine hearing a helicopter actually passing overhead rather than just in front of you. Its 3.1.2 channel configuration (three front channels, one subwoofer, two height channels) provides excellent separation of dialogue from other sounds.
The Yamaha SR-B40A approaches movie sound differently. While it lacks physical height speakers, its advanced DSP creates surprisingly effective virtual height effects. The larger subwoofer provides more impactful explosions and deeper rumbles, which can be especially engaging in action scenes.
For music, each system has distinct advantages. The Polk's multiple drivers create a wider soundstage - imagine the musicians spread out across a virtual stage in front of you. However, the Yamaha's newer DSP technology and larger subwoofer often provide more natural-sounding bass for music, particularly noticeable with genres like jazz or electronic music.
Both soundbars feature HDMI eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel), which allows them to receive high-quality audio signals from modern TVs. They also include Bluetooth connectivity, though the Yamaha's newer Bluetooth 5.1 implementation generally provides more stable connections compared to the Polk's Bluetooth 4.2.
The Yamaha offers more refined control through its dedicated app, allowing detailed sound adjustments. The Polk's remote control is more basic but includes helpful preset modes for different content types.
In typical living room settings (300-400 square feet), both systems perform admirably. The Polk Signa S4's height effects work best with 8-9 foot flat ceilings, while the Yamaha's larger subwoofer makes it more suitable for larger spaces where more bass output is needed.
For dedicated home theater use, the Polk's true Atmos capabilities give it an edge with the latest movies and streaming content. However, the Yamaha's superior bass response might be preferable for those who watch a lot of action movies or play games.
At nearly identical price points (both around $270), these soundbars represent different value propositions:
The Polk Signa S4 offers:
The Yamaha SR-B40A provides:
Consider these key factors when choosing:
Both systems support modern audio formats and should remain relevant for years. The Yamaha's newer design might have a slight edge in terms of future-proofing, particularly with its more recent Bluetooth implementation and software updateability through its app.
The Polk Signa S4 and Yamaha SR-B40A represent two different approaches to modern soundbar design. The Polk focuses on delivering true Atmos performance at an accessible price point, while the Yamaha prioritizes overall sound quality and bass performance.
For movie enthusiasts who want the most immersive experience with Atmos content, the Polk is the clear choice. For those seeking a more versatile system with superior music performance and stronger bass, the Yamaha offers compelling advantages.
Remember that room acoustics play a crucial role in any audio system's performance. Consider your space's characteristics and primary use case when making your final decision. Both systems represent excellent value for their price points, but their different strengths make them better suited to different users' needs.
| Polk Audio Signa S4 | Yamaha SR-B40A |
|---|---|
| Price - Current Market Value | |
| $269.85 | $265.95 (MSRP $399.95) |
| Channel Configuration - Determines soundstage and immersion | |
| 3.1.2 channels with dedicated Atmos height speakers | 2.1 channels with virtual Atmos effects |
| Subwoofer Size - Impacts bass performance and room-filling capability | |
| 5.9" driver (compact design, tighter bass) | 6.25" driver (larger cabinet, deeper bass) |
| Total Power Output - Affects maximum volume and dynamic range | |
| 320W combined | 320W combined (200W soundbar + 120W subwoofer) |
| Connectivity Options - Important for device compatibility | |
| HDMI eARC, Optical, Bluetooth 4.2 | HDMI eARC, Optical, Bluetooth 5.1 |
| Sound Enhancement Features - Improves specific listening experiences | |
| VoiceAdjust, Night Mode, Bass Adjust | Clear Voice, Bass Extension, Game Mode |
| Dimensions (Soundbar) - Consider your TV size and space | |
| 41.2" x 3.7" x 2.4" | 35.8" x 2.7" x 5.2" |
| Audio Format Support - Determines content compatibility | |
| Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital, DTS | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD |
| Control Options - Affects ease of use | |
| Basic remote control, TV remote via HDMI-CEC | App control, remote control, HDMI-CEC |
| Release Date - Indicates technology generation | |
| Early 2022 | August 2023 |
The Polk Signa S4 is better for movies due to its dedicated Dolby Atmos height speakers and 3.1.2 channel configuration, providing more immersive surround sound effects for home theater use.
The Yamaha SR-B40A delivers stronger bass performance thanks to its larger 6.25" subwoofer compared to the Polk's 5.9" driver. This makes the Yamaha better for bass-heavy movies and music.
Both soundbars support Dolby Atmos, but the Polk Signa S4 offers true Atmos with dedicated height speakers, while the Yamaha uses virtual processing. For home theater enthusiasts, the Polk's true Atmos implementation provides noticeably better overhead effects.
The Yamaha SR-B40A has a dedicated gaming mode and stronger bass response, making it slightly better for gaming. However, both soundbars perform well for gaming applications.
Yes, both the Polk Signa S4 and Yamaha SR-B40A feature HDMI eARC connections, allowing easy setup with modern TVs and supporting high-quality audio formats.
The Yamaha SR-B40A generally performs better with music due to its superior bass response and cleaner midrange reproduction, though both soundbars handle music well.
The Polk Signa S4 works best with flat ceilings between 7-9 feet for optimal Atmos effects. The Yamaha uses virtual processing so ceiling height is less crucial.
Both are simple to set up, but the Polk Signa S4 has a more straightforward approach with fewer adjustments needed. The Yamaha offers more customization options through its app.
Yes, both soundbars support HDMI-CEC, allowing control through your TV remote for basic functions like volume and power.
The Polk Signa S4 has superior dialogue clarity thanks to its dedicated center channel and VoiceAdjust technology, making it particularly good for movie dialogue.
The Yamaha SR-B40A performs better in larger rooms due to its more powerful subwoofer. The Polk is better suited to small to medium-sized spaces.
For pure home theater use, the Polk Signa S4 offers better value due to its true Atmos capabilities and superior dialogue clarity, though the Yamaha SR-B40A is better for mixed-use scenarios.
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 - crutchfield.com - visions.ca - shop.usa.yamaha.com - bestbuy.com - bestbuy.com - usa.yamaha.com - my.yamaha.com - europe.yamaha.com - adorama.com - usa.yamaha.com - digitalhomecreations.com - europe.yamaha.com - sundownone.com
