Polk MagniFi Max AX SR soundbar adds wireless Atmos audio
Proper positional audio, without the complete surround sound system
Soundbars keep your home cinema setup looking neat and tidy, but all the room correction and virtual surround effects in the world can’t beat putting actual speakers behind your head for a proper movie theatre experience. Polk’s latest top-tier model does just that: the Polk MagniFi Max AX SR adds wireless surround speakers and a separate subwoofer for 7.1.2 Dolby Atmos sound.
With a total of 11 speaker drivers, the MagniFi Max AX SR is good for both Atmos and DTS:X positional audio, with Polk’s proprietary SDA tuning tech on hand to cut out crosstalk and create a convincing soundstage. The 10in wireless subwoofer can be placed anywhere there’s a plug socket handy, and promises furniture-shaking bass.
Dedicated Movie, TV and Music modes tweak bass response and vocal clarity with one button press, and there’s a Night Mode to avoid offending your neighbours with any evening movie marathons.
There’s three 4K-ready HDMI inputs for games consoles and streaming boxes, along with HDMI eARC for hooking up to your TV and an optical input for connecting older tech. It plays nicely with Apple AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast and Spotify Connect over Wi-Fi, has built-in Bluetooth, and supports Works with Alexa music services. You can also pair it with any MagniFi AX series sound bars for a multi-room setup.
No room for separate speakers, or they just won’t get the nod from the other half? Polk has you covered. The MagniFi Max AX goes without the up-firing satellites, but keeps the wireless subwoofer, connectivity and music streaming smarts. Then if you fancy upgrading later, you can add them in for an extra £179.
The Magnifi Max AX SR goes on sale from October, direct from the PolkAudio website and authorised retailers, for £769/$899. The satellite-less MagniFi Max AX will set you back £679.
Tom Morgan-Freelander
Deputy Editor 
