Evaluating Polk Audio R700 Floorstanding Loudspeakers
Are Polk Audio loudspeakers a reliable choice for your home audio setup? Specifically, what can you expect from the Polk R700 floorstanding loudspeakers? This review delves into the key features, performance, and overall experience of the R700 series, helping you make an informed decision.
Key Features of the Polk R700
The Polk R700 floorstanding loudspeakers are designed to deliver powerful, room-filling sound with deep bass. This is achieved through their large 3-way driver array enclosed in an elegantly crafted cabinet. Let's explore the standout features that contribute to their sound quality and design.
PowerPort Bass-Venting Technology: The R700 utilizes PowerPort bass-venting technology, enabling deep low-frequency response. This feature helps in delivering the rumbling bass that enhances the overall listening experience.
Drivers and Technology: The R700 includes a 1-inch silk/polymer composite dome tweeter for crisp high frequencies. Additionally, it features dual 6.5-inch polymer/mineral-filled composite sub-bass radiators that provide powerful rumbling bass. The midrange driver ensures clear and detailed middle frequencies, contributing to the balance and clarity of the sound.
Performance and Sound Quality
Designed with a 3-way configuration, the R700 is capable of reproducing a wide spectrum of frequencies. The combination of the 1-inch tweeter, dual 6.5-inch subwoofers, and midrange driver creates a harmonious sound that is both immersive and detailed.
Many reviewers praise the R700's balanced natural sound across various music genres, from classical to rock. The speakers excel in filling large rooms with immersive surround sound, especially when paired with a capable AV receiver.
Design and Build Quality
The Polk R700 is clad in black wood veneer with silver trim, providing an elegant contemporary look. The design of the cabinet includes internal bracing and damping to reduce resonance, ensuring a cleaner sound. Available finishes include black oak and walnut, allowing you to choose a look that complements your home decor.
The R700 series stands at a height of 41 inches, making a considerable presence in any room. Each speaker weighs a substantial 70 lbs, ensuring stability and a secure position in your audio setup.
The Evolution of Polk Audio
It's worth noting that Polk Audio, which once was a top-shelf premium brand with some amazing equipment, has undergone a transformation over the years. Today, they are more positioned as an inexpensive budget brand. Despite this, their products generally match or outperform others in the market.
Many early reviews from enthusiasts from the 1990s and early 2000s depicted Polk as a brand of very high-quality and precision engineering, setting the standard in the industry. However, over time, consistent product improvements and the broadening of their product line have led them to cater to a broader audience.
Personal Experience and Recommendation
My personal experience with the Polk R700 series has been quite positive. They are not super high-end but are more than capable of delivering a rich array of sounds distortion-free. My satisfaction stems from a thorough research process involving multiple home audio specialists. Instead of relying solely on online reviews, I visited three specialized stores in the same mall, spending close to 8 hours testing different speaker sets. Each salesperson was willing to allow me to listen to the speakers multiple times, ensuring I had a comprehensive experience before making a decision.
Given the quality of these speakers and their value for money, I highly recommend you to do the same. Test them out in person and trust your ears. Remember to consider your budget at each testing session, as this can significantly influence your choice.
The Polk R700 floorstanding loudspeakers offer a balance of performance, build quality, and affordability. Whether you are an audiophile or just looking for an upgrade, these speakers are definitely worth considering.