Monitor XT30 High-Resolution Center Channel Speaker, Hi-Res Certified Performance, Dolby Atmos Certified & DTS:X Compatible, Black

These Polk XT20 Speakers were purchased to replace a pair of Wharfedale Diamond 12.0s, which, while excellent, were found to be quite fatiguing over extended listening periods. The Polks also had a superior frequency response range, 38hz - 40,000hz vs 70hz - 20,000hz, for the Wharfedales, which should, on paper at least, give a much more pronounced bass response. In terms of build quality, the Polks were very well-finished (the fine-textured overall black cabinet finishing, a pleasing and modern looking alternative to the common 'black ash' vinyl wraps which adorn so many entry-level bookshelf speakers). The Polks did not have as solid a cabinet as the Wharfedales (an indication of thicker MDF construction and superior internal bracing). The Polks binding posts are also not as high quality as the Wharfedale's, which also boasts twin sets of terminals on each speaker for 'bi-amping'. In terms of performance, however, the Polks were exceptional for what is a budget price. Clear and crisp high treble without being overly bright (with only a slight trace of high-end roll-off) and punchy, tight bass at medium to high volumes with no obvious signs of audible distortion. As with most speakers in this price range, lower volumes did lack a little definition. Only the mid-range performance was slightly subdued, in what was an overall fine attempt at creating a convincing soundstage. Being Rear-Ported, correct placement is also essential to contributing to a balanced soundstage. When tested with a Cambridge Audio Axa35 Amplifier (8 ohm) and Axc25 CD Player, the speakers were easier to drive than their 87db sensitivity suggested, and would undoubtedly be more so with a more powerful integrated amplifier than the Cambridge. The Polks also responded extremely well to EQ, and are actually, by default, quite neutral, so can be 'tuned' quite effectively through Tone Control. For this reviewer, the bass response - while excellent for a budget bookshelf speaker - is certainly not as powerful as other reviews seem to suggest, and a subwoofer would certainly enhance lower frequency response. However, most pleasing of all, is the XT20s ability to provide consistent non-fatiguing listening for extended periods. This was evident through a diverse range of different genres from electronic EDM to Hard Rock, and is, perhaps, the speaker's greatest attribute in an entry-level speaker marketplace where listening fatigue is often cited as the reason why individuals upgrade to the next mid-price level. Overall, an aesthetically pleasing, well-made budget speaker with surprising acoustic performance and sonic dynamics throughout. For the extremely competitive price of £189, you can't really go wrong.

These are my first proper Hi-Fi speakers I've ever owned and I'm blown away. Paired these with the Aiyima A80 and a Presonus Eris Sub 8 and I'm in heaven. I never thought I'd hear this much clarity, detail and sound stage from the music that I listen to. A great example was the song: Mirror by the Supreme beings of leisure, it almost sounds like a different version with things in it I didn't hear before, even with my hidizs mp145 iem's. So very happy and I'd give more starts I could. Also got them for £97 so the value is unbeatable for me.

Excellent home speaker, bought a pair. Is adequate for a small hall. Sound is rich, crisp and clear though that is in response to the amplifier and equalizer that drives it.

Sound quality is good.

Great sound. Incredible good bass for such small speakers.

These bookshelf speakers are wonderful, with a warm rich quality sound. I'm no audiophile but these speakers are outstanding for the price.

the speakers play nicely

Excellent, paired with a Denon AVR 760 and 79 strand speaker cable. Not sure id I should raise them higher to bounce of the insulated panel roof of the garden room for best placement, may try it to see. definitely adds that extra dimension. Subtle not over powering. Use decent quality speaker cable