Polk Audio has two new Dolby Atmos soundbar models aimed squarely at people who may be considering the excellent $899 Sonos Arc. The MagniFi Max AX ($799) and MagniFi Max AX SR ($899) are equipped with wireless subwoofers and an 11-speaker array, including dedicated up-fi drivers, but the MagniFi Max AX SR provides an extra level of surround sound immersion by including a set of wireless surround speakers. Both models are also DTS:X capable and will be available in October at polkaudio.com and select retailers.
Polk Audio
Polk Audio says the key to the MagniFi Max AX’s performance, aside from all those drivers, is the company’s Stereo Dimensional Array (SDA) technology. Now in its fourth generation, Polk claims the SDA provides an ultra-wide soundstage by eliminating interaural crosstalk. My experience with Polk’s previous SDA-equipped models like the MagniFi Mini AX suggests that’s not just marketing speak — they provide a very convincingly wide sound field.
MagniFi Max AX
Audio MagniFi Max AX SR adds wireless surround speakers. Polk Audio
We’ll have to wait until we get a unit to test to see how well it performs, but in the meantime, the Max AX’s specs look very promising, especially its connections. Most soundbars suffer from a lack of HDMI inputs, but the MagniFi Max AX has three, plus the now standard HDMI ARC/eARC output. These inputs can pass 4K video and (along with the HDMI inputs on your TV) mean the Max AX can effectively replace a home theater receiver, making it even more attractive to people looking for a single speaker system to run all their A/V needs. It’s worth noting that the Sonos Arc doesn’t have any HDMI inputs.
MagniFi Max AX SR
Polk Audio
Both models come with a 10-inch wireless downward-firing subwoofer, another benefit the Sonos Arc lacks. From a music streaming standpoint, the Max AX comes with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, with support for Apple AirPlay 2, Chromecast built-in, Spotify Connect, and is compatible with any Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant device. If you own other MagniFi AX products, they can be combined into a multi-room sound system. If you have a Roku TV, the system can be controlled via your on-screen menus thanks to Max AX’s Roku TV-ready certification.
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Source: newstars.edu.vn