GUIDE TO MONITOR SPEAKERS

Polk Audio Monitor 30 2-Way Bookshelf Speakers (Pair, Black)

Manufacturer : Polk Audio
In Stock : 5

List Price:	$229.95
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Features

Pair of bookshelf 2-way speakers that delivers superior linearity, definition and sound imaging
Equipped with one 5.25-inch bi-laminate composite dynamic-balance driver
Equipped with one 1-inch silk polymer-composite dynamic-balance dome tweeter
All MDF construction and extensive cabinet bracing ensure resonance-free enclosures
Built-in keyhole wall mounting brackets provides secure on-wall mounting

Product Description

Back in the 1970's, Polk's Monitor speaker series put Polk Audio on the map. Universally acclaimed by audio critics, the Monitor series became known as an acoustically transparent speaker - a concept that audiophiles search for - with beautifully accurate sound reproduction. Here we are, nearly 2 generations later, and the Monitor is being re-introduced so you can experience this great sound fresh and new. Dual Five-Way Binding Post Connectors, allowing for more secure hook-up options, as well as bi-wiring and bi-amping flexibility Monitor Series speakers are ?modern living accessories? that make a stylish statement in Black wood grain finish, with Titanium faces Magnetically shielded for safe placement on or near TVs and video monitors with no risk of video distortion Built-in keyhole wall mounting brackets for strong, secure on-wall mounting with no added brackets to buy. Critically Tuned Flared Port minimizes port noise (?chuffing?) for good low frequency extension with low distortion, resulting in natural, full-bodied sound with rich bass Cabinet Size 11 H x 7 W x 8-3/8 D (27.94cm H x 17.78cm W x 21.27cm D) Mounting Options on-wall with built-iin key hole slot Enclosure Type Vented via rear panel flared port Each speaker weighs 9 pounds 2 Speakers in package for left and right channel stereo or for front or rear channel in home-theater mode Black Finish

Customer Reviews

Average Rating of 4.00 out of 14 reviews

Rating :
perfect! - Stephen Horton, Apr 12, 2008

Great product from a great company. I use them as primary speakers in asmall room.

Rating :
Not for serious listening - MJC, Mar 03, 2008

I have these connected to a Sonos system as their own "zone" in the same room as a pair of Dynaudio 52SE's. For those not familiar with Sonos, it lets you play the exact same source of music simultaneously on different speakers throughout your house. It happened to be an easy way to compare the Polk Audios to some very high quality speakers.

The comparison showed the the Polk Audio Monitor 30 speakers are not for serious music listening. I didn't expect the Polks to perform as well - that would not be a fair comparison. However, comparing them showed that the Polks are missing a lot of the music. Obviously, you wouldn't expect low end from speakers this size, and the low end is not present. However, parts of the mids and highs are missing, and other parts of the mids and highs are inappropriately blended together.

I had hoped that using these with a subwoofer would make them much better. It made them better, but not much better.

Amazon included these speakers for free with my Sonos order. I would not buy them.

Rating :
A Good, Not Great Speaker. - Gordon Smith, Feb 10, 2008

I have these speakers hooked up to a vintage Pioneer receiver (chrome face) that puts out about 30 watts. While I am far from an audiophile, and I have never thought of myself of having a terribly discerning ear, I must say that the sound from these speakers is O.K. I have followed the advise posted by another reviewer and flipped the speakers over so the tweeter is on the bottom. I must say that for my setup the sound improved a bit. I have had no problems with the mid and high range, the problem I have had is with the bass. I was listening to a Luna CD and noticed that the bass was just awful--I guess boomy is the word to describe the sound. And flipping the speakers over did improve performance, so all is not lost. I do have the speakers almost against a wall and I may try stuffing a sock into the rear port, even though it sounds a like a funky thing to do, but who knows it may improve things? For a space-limited setup these speakers offer good value for the money.

Rating :
Bass Heavy Sound - Douglas Borsom, Feb 09, 2008

I like the small size of these speakers, but the designers weighted the sound too heavy in the lower-midrange and bass. The result is somewhat muddy. I would love to know of a similarly-sized speaker with better balanced performance.

Rating :
Not bad for the price, but only recommended if space is an issue. - , Jan 08, 2008

I bought these speakers to compliment a new flat-panel TV in our living room, I chose the Monitor 30's because of their compact size along with Polk's good reputation for sound quality. They are fine little speakers, but are noticeably lacking in mid-range sound, even when accompanied by a sub (they are currently hooked up with a Polk PSW-10 sub). They offer great highs and the sub combination obviously supplies plenty of bass, but the lack of mids is distracting. My Athena AS-B2's sound WORLDS better and can be had for the same price elsewhere online. The Athenas are larger than the Polks but the sound is much, much richer and more versatile overall. Bottom line, the Monitor 30's are decent if you can find a good deal and if you need to save space.

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