Following up on the release earlier this year of the MagniFi Mini compact soundbar/subwoofer system, Polk Audio has decided to release two additional models that include most of the same features as the MagniFi Mini but with a wider 45-inch soundbar design that is better suited for larger screen TVs and, unlike the MagniFi Mini can be either shelf/table or wall mounted.
The two models are designated as the Polk Audio MagniFi Max AX and Magni Fi Max AX SR.
Note: Before getting into what these two soundbar systems offer, it is important to point out that both models are identical except that the MagniFI Max AX SR comes with a pair of external wireless surround speakers while the Max AX doesn’t. The features and specifications discussed in this article apply to both models unless pointed out specifically.
Core Features
Speaker Complement: The soundbar section of the Polk Audio MagniFi Max AX and AX SR houses left, center, right, and height channel speakers.
Wireless Subwoofer: The MagniFi Max AX and AX SR both come with a wireless subwoofer that incorporates a 10-inch down-firing driver supported by a rear-mounted port for added low-frequency extension.
Tip: As mentioned previously, the Max AX SR also comes with a pair of wireless surround speakers.
Audio Format Support: Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Polk SDA 3D Audio Technology.
Tip: Polk Audio’s SDA technology provides a wider soundstage and immersive height channels that go well beyond the physical borders of the MagniFi Mini AX and AX SR soundbar.
Setup: With the included HDMI cable, built-in HDMI eARC can pass through eight channels of uncompressed audio, which supports Dolby Atmos and DTS: X. The MagniFi Max AX and AX SR are also Roku TV Ready.
VoiceAdjustTM: The dedicated center channel speaker in the MagniFi Max AX is paired with Polk’s VoiceAdjustTMtechnology. This improves dialogue presence without affecting other channels. This is great for movies and sporting events, and when viewing at lower volumes, such as nighttime.
Voice Adjust Demo Video:
Bass Adjust: The MagniFi Max AX and AX SR include a Bass Adjust feature that controls the low-frequency output on both the soundbar and subwoofer.
Sound Modes: In addition to VoiceAdjust and Bass Adjust, the MagniFi Max AX systems also provide Sound Mode/EQ presets for Movie, Music, and Night Listening (Night Mode). The Night Mode automatically attenuates bass output and dialogue clarity to avoid disturbing sleeping neighbors or family members during late-night binge-watching sessions.
Streaming: The MagniFi Max AX and AX SR can connect to your home network via Wi-Fi and provides access to Google Chromecast, Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, and any Alexa-supported music service or Bluetooth (supports ver 5.0).
Control: Onboard control buttons are provided for power, input selection, Bluetooth pairing, mute, and volume. The MagniFi Max AX and SR also come with a wireless remote control which provides more extensive setting options and is pre-programmed to work with most TV remotes. The soundbar has a front panel OLED Status Display.
Connections
The connections provided with the MagniFi AX include:
- (1) HDMI (ARC/eARC) Connection
- (3) HDMI inputs (4K/HDR Compatible)
- (1) Digital optical input
- (1) Analog 3.5mm input (Aux)
- (1) USB-A (for firmware updates and service only)
Tip: Digital optical and analog audio cables are an optional purchase.
What Comes in the Box
- Sound bar
- Subwoofer
- Remote control with batteries
- Power cords for soundbar and subwoofer.
- HDMI cable
- Quick Start Guide
- Registration card
- Safety document
Pricing & Availability
The MagniFi Max AX is priced at $799 and the Max AX SR is priced at $899. Both will be available in October 2022 direct from PolkAudio.com and at authorized Polk Audio dealers.
Although MagniFi MAX AX doesn’t come with surround speakers, you can add Polk’s optional SR2 Wireless Surround Speakers (MSRP: $199.99) – available on Amazon.
Tip: It is actually less expensive in the long run to purchase the MagnFi MAX AX SR system, which comes with surround speakers, than buying the MAX AX and then adding on the SR2 Wireless Surround Speakers later.
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Noble
November 30, 2022 at 12:10 pm
Nice review! Keep sharing the informative article!