POLK AUDIO L100 Loudspeaker Review - Is the L100 BETTER than the L800?

✅ 🛒 POLK L100: bit.ly/3OXMiun, bit.ly/35FQA5V
✅ CLICK ❤️ THANKS above to highlight your questions & help support the channel!
✅👇CLICK SHOW MORE👇 to see a full list of products shown
► SHOP THE POLK LEGEND L100 BOOKSHELF SPEAKER
Polk Audio L100 Bookshelf Speakers: bit.ly/35FQA5V, bit.ly/3OXMiun
►TESTING THE POLK L100 SPEAKERS
Pro-Ject MaiA S2 Integrated Amplifier: bit.ly/maias2
Crown XLS 1502 Amplifier: bit.ly/CXLS1502
U-Turn Orbit Special Record Player: bit.ly/uturnspec
► COMPARABLE SPEAKERS TO THE POLK L100s
Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary Bookshelf Speaker: bit.ly/denton85
Focal Chora 806 Bookshelf Speakers: bit.ly/fc806bs
Klipsch 600M Speakers: bit.ly/REC600M
► MORE FROM POLK AUDIO
LEGEND SERIES
Polk Audio L800 Tower Speakers:bit.ly/3pCg6RD
Polk Audio L900 Elevation Modules: bit.ly/2UEJhVN
SIGNATURE SERIES
Polk Audio S Series 5.1 Speaker System: amzn.to/3irusA2
Polk Audio S55 Floorstanding Speaker: amzn.to/3kdxyZa
Polk Audio Signature Series Bookshelf Speakers: amzn.to/2QbHhSX
T SERIES
Polk Audio T50 Tower Speakers: amzn.to/3kgKpJN
Polk Audio T15 Bookshelf Speakers: amzn.to/2wOobLY
SOUNDBARS
Polk Audio MagniFi Home Theater Surround Sound Bar: amzn.to/2ZxcNzC
Polk Audio Signa S3 Ultra Slim Soundbar: amzn.to/2FfUSGU
SUBWOOFER
Polk Audio PSW10 Subwoofer: amzn.to/2GQdBcd
Polk Audio L100 Loudspeaker Review - Is the L100 BETTER than the L800?
Polk L100 Bookshelf Speakers: bit.ly/35FQA5V (MORE⬇︎)
For those of you who haven't watched my review of Polk's L800, you might want to start there ( • POLK AUDIO Legend L800... ). If you're trying to decide between the L800 tower speakers and the Polk Legend L100, there is a lot more to consider than size.
► MORE ANDREW ROBINSON REVIEWS
➔ Q Acoustics Concept 300 Speaker Review: • BEST Bookshelf Speaker...
➔ Focal Chora 806 Speaker Review: • The Beauty of HiFi! Fo...
➔ Polk Audio L800 Review: • POLK AUDIO Legend L800...
➔ Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniv. Speaker Review:
► MY REFERENCE AUDIO AND HOME THEATER SYSTEM
POWER
Naim Uniti Atom All In One Music System: bit.ly/NaimAtom
Musical Fidelity Integrated Amp: bit.ly/M5si
LOUDSPEAKERS
Q Acoustic Bookshelf Speakers: bit.ly/C300wsA
Klipsch Heresy IV Floorstanding Speakers: bit.ly/heresyiv
Jamo C97ii Towers (best budget tower speaker): bit.ly/C97II
SPEAKER STANDS
Kanto Bookshelf Speaker Stands (budget): bit.ly/Kanto26
SolidSteel Speaker Stands (best): bit.ly/SolidAA
TURNTABLE
U-Turn Orbit Plus Record Player (good): bit.ly/uturnspec
Fluance RT85 Turntable (better): bit.ly/RT85player
Cambridge Audio Direct Drive Turntable (best): bit.ly/AlvaCA
RECORD PLAYER CARTRIDGES
Ortofon 2M Blue Cartridge (better): bit.ly/BlueAA
Ortofon 2M Black Cartridge (best): bit.ly/BLKAA
HEADPHONES
Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones: bit.ly/WH1000xm4
Modern Wood Headphone Stand: amzn.to/3g9CpIp
BEST BUDGET SMART TV
Hisense 65-inch QLED TV: bit.ly/H9GTV
MEDIA CABINET & TV STAND
BDI Octave Media Cabinet: bit.ly/BDIMEDIA
BLUETOOTH / DESKTOP SPEAKERS
Naim Mu-so Qb V2 Wireless Music System: amzn.to/2C3AeYq
Klipsch The Fives Powered Speaker with HDMI-ARC: bit.ly/fivesUS
Kanto YU Desktop Speakers (budget): bit.ly/YUdesk
► SHOP OUR LIVING ROOM
ARTICLE LEATHER CHAIR: bit.ly/NirvanaChr
ART: bit.ly/howfaryt
EVERYTHING ELSE: bit.ly/ARdecor
► STAY CONNECTED
SUBSCRIBE & RING THE 🔔: bit.ly/RobinsonYT
JOIN THE CREW: bit.ly/ARobMbr
INSTAGRAM: / recoveringaudiophile
BUSINESS INQUIRIES: bit.ly/andrewbiz
FTC: This video is not sponsored. Some links above are affiliate, meaning we make a small percentage if you buy through the link but it won't change the price for you! Thank you for helping to support the channel.
#audio #polkaudio #speaker

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

✅ 🛒 POLK L100: bit.ly/3OXMiun, bit.ly/35FQA5V ✅ *QOTD: What is your favorite bookshelf speaker of all time?* ✅ *COMMENT RULES:* No outside URLs, KZbin links or email addresses. Be respectful.

[@thunderbird66613]

I'm playing with a couple of bookshelf speakers right now. JBL studio 530's and an older pair of OHM acoustics model L. Too be honest I still have not found a bookshelf speaker that can replace my OHMs yet. I have a pair of floorstanding Polks for my tv system.

[@sudd3660]

how about Triangle Esprit Heyda EZ? i find that speaker fascinating, could be a versatile speaker and also perform very well as its sealed and compact and still look like it belongs on speaker stands.

[@OHMAudioChannel]

I've always been interested in Monitor Audio offerings, but I don't see a lot of reviews out there. Perhaps check out one of their bookshelves?

[@creativeslink]

Maybe it’s wrong, maybe it’s the mood, maybe it was the setting, but I’ve really loved the sounds I hear on bookshelf sized pro studio monitors. Jbl and Yamaha dominate every pro studio I’ve been in with my musician clients. They also look kind of cool. I’m not convinced these new Polk legends look as good as their previous high end lines bookshelves.

[@jacobwebb9587]

I would like to read your opinion on PIEGA COAX 311 bookshelf speaker.

[@joecharpentier6636]

I just managed to get a pair of the l100's "open box" for $500. Dont ask me how when theyre $1000 everywhere else. They were factory sealed and perfect. I connected them to my Cambridge audio cxa81 and let me say OMG!!!!! A perfect pairing. I love the sound of these speakers. I have had my ls50 metas for a year now and yes theyre good. Very good, but i had to try something new. These l100's blew me away. The Soundstage, the depth, the sparkle and the bass were a complete shock to me. I wasnt expecting what i got. Now its into the box metas. Sorry. L100's are on my stands and aint going anywhere for a very very long time. If i had paid the original price of $1,200 i would have been just as thrilled. I havent auditioned anything under $2k that comes close. Added just a small 8 inch powered sub with dsp and i can not shut them off. Im listening to music that never interested me previously because of the detail retrieval im getting. Just sit back, close your eyes and melt away. Best speaker purchase ive made to date.

[@elvincuevas1727]

For the goosebumps buy a pair of Klipsch Cornwall IV! Have a great day Andrew!

[@johncox4273]

Andrew, Have been enjoying your channel for several months now, and just wanted to say thank you for all your hard work and honesty. You are one of five “audio” people that I follow on KZbin, and I always look forward to watching your videos. They are very interesting, informative, and very well done. Keep up the excellent work, and I look forward to watching you for many years.

[@jasonmelo9379]

Dude, you had the l800s way too far apart! The instructions are specifically to have them at a 30° angle rather than the 60° angle. That's why you had a lack of imaging in the center and the SDA didn't work so well.

[@thematt1203]

Can't say I'm an OG, but I've been watching for the past few months. All your videos are insightful, and entertaining. Love the content! One of the best KZbin discoveries I've made

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

So happy to hear that and glad you’re here.

[@victorpirsoul3979]

I had the L200 speakers for a few weeks and I was driving them with a 40 wpc NAD C 316BEE integrated. While they were with me, I never had any issues with the "lack of power" and getting the full frequency range from them. The sound quality was very good, amazingly good, actually. Granted, it could be my room's acoustics and I'm hearing things that you did not hear in your room without having massive amounts of power behind the speakers.

[@MichelLinschoten]

Victor Pirsoul that’s because you don’t need lots of power to drive a small two way like this. I don’t know what power numbers he is talking about in his video tho

[@theeverydayaudiophile4147]

Michel Linschoten actually, it’s harder to drive a small 2-way bookshelf speaker like this than it is to drive a comparable floorstanding speaker like the L600 but, as I said before, I didn’t have any issues.

[@jdavis234]

The more current these get the more controlled the bass is, I’ve found. Depends on how well the amp handles 4ohm current swings and your listening levels, though. Some amps just don’t play well with low efficiency, no matter how many “watts” they claim.

[@marioschwarzbach2894]

It took me a while, however you’ve become my favorite Reviewer. Your honesty and deliverance is exceptional

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Wow, thank you!

[@donalddeorio2237]

A favorite of mine that I have owned for 17 years is the Infinity interlude Il10. 2 way bookshelf 6 1/2" CMMD mid bass and 1" CMMD Tweeter. Original price $400. Musical, smooth response, good highs more bass than you would think. Has stood the test of time. I also own the big brother IL50, and IL25C center. Have been my go to music and home theater. That's where I'm at. Recently started listening to HQ music and find the detail and imaging are even more amazing. Thank you

[@Glock_4717]

Thanks for another review Andrew can’t wait to see what’s next.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thank you for watching!

[@marklnj7224]

I look forward to every video, Andrew. I can give no better compliment. As for my favorite "bookshelf" speaker, it is the Revel Performa M22. I've had it for 15 years and never had the urge to upgrade.

[@KristiWright]

So kind of you to say that, Mark. Thank you for watching!

[@SpecO1llI]

Very well spoken sir. I know the Polk LSiM series are going away but it would be nice for you to review those.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I think it may still be a valid review for it is likely a loudspeaker that will be quite popular for some time due to its affordability right now and its longevity in the used market. Just thinking out loud.

[@artietheman3294]

I like your channel-not many really to take seriuosly🤔the way how you go deep into really making us all really feel bout the product you're reviewing, you do care bout ppl.and honestly how you explain on about why spend such amount of💲💲💲On A bigger speaker where we can also hear on a smaller but yêt more Mobile and fun speaker such as the L100🤗where we can move around,also combine it in different ways with other sub's and get BK. The same or better used of it🤗👌i got rid of my bigger front speakers also -and replace them with older two way front POLKY'S ,also added two PoLK 10inch sub's itz amazing 😁👍i DO hear YOU.keep them reviews coming fantastic WORK.🙌

[@tee-jaythestereo-bargainph2120]

Nice job on the review Andrew , Dam that was on point! I 'd like to review these also , I reviewed the 703s and when powered right no subwoofer needed 😆 I also took them all away apart , Had to show off the build quality 30 pounds 3-way . Thanks Andrew i more than likely will buy these, but just got the JBL-Studio 580s in for a review and ohh my !

[@garykarczewski6678]

Hi Andrew, love your reviews thank you. How about some reviews on DIY speaker kits?

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I don’t know, maybe? Appreciate you watching.

[@Audfile]

Thanks for the honesty

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thank you for watching.

[@ggroch]

Excellent Insightful review as usual Andrew! I have not heard the L100 but your final comment on the less than passionate sound coincides with my first impression of their appearance. They look like a plain box...a very well built box, but a box nonetheless. Compare it to the LSiM 703 which has interesting curves/non-parallel surfaces, a very passionate premium appearance I think. Perhaps these new Legends measure better, but the LSiM703 has been recently available on closeout at 25% the cost, and it looks a lot more expensive than its original $1500 price.

[@warrenmacdonald1372]

Andrew, tie a bandana around the speaker and put a small cowboy hat on it. Now it's got character. But seriously, I think you're describing that small hole in the upper bass lower mid-range area. That might make it a little more fun! Add about one-and-a-half db around 700 Hz, then try playing Vincent by Don McLean

[@bifff8433]

My Polk Audio Monitor 7B's with a 10 inch passive radiator... to me, those are fun speakers. They have such big sound for not so large a footprint. And if the JBL L100 Classics are considered bookshelf speakers, then then so can the Monitor 7B's.

[@Mani-aX]

the bloopers are great. should live'n up a little like that during the normal reviews. when watching, i feel the "why so serious" mode. great review and video as always. but its great to see ya loosen up too.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thank you for watching and for the note.

[@jay12345ist]

This^^^

[@kurikokaleidoscope]

Fantastic and awesome machinery. Eloquent and explosively beautiful and brilliant.

[@pimpin94553]

Did you give these speakers some time to break in?? Its a must for these Ring Radiator tweeters.

[@kevink8321]

I listened to ATC SCM11 for 10 happy years. Then for reasons none other than just wanting to try something new, probably better, and definitely much more expensive, I bought Focal Kanta One. It’s a tour de force of sound possible from bookshelf speakers. Interested if you can review any higher end of Focal speakers.

[@silviopimentel7247]

ANDREW i do seem to trust ur opinion cause from what I hear from u I love vox, mids, dynamics & sound stage. Not happy with my current 340i moon & dali opticon 2's. But do kinda of like my vintage luxman going through EPI old speakers. Thank u

[@trevorbartram5473]

Hi Andrew, many mini monitors have the upper bass hump of approx 3dB at 100Hz, as you described, it's intentional. At bass frequencies any speaker is omni-directional. It is expected that the speakers will be stand mounted and placed away from all walls. The closest wall should be the back wall, if the speaker driver is placed one quarter wavelength (approx 1 meter) away from the rear wall, the back wave reflected from the rear wall towards the listener (will have traveled a total of one half wavelength) and will partially cancel the forward wave from the driver. The partial cancellation will flatten the speaker's bass response to give the in room response intended by the speaker's designer.

[@jdavis234]

Faulting a speaker for being inefficient for the sake of needing to drive low frequencies is like faulting a car with a V8 engine for using too much gas.

[@Selrisitai]

If other, similar cars with similar power, and also containing a V8 engine, needed much less gas, then it would be a valid criticism.

[@HalfBit360]

The way I rate things now is in 3 categories, Aesthetic, Quality, and Price. Now these 3 categories can be broken down into subcategories and such but my main issue is with aesthetics, there’s never enough contrast! Sadly the only brand that I find contrasts well is Klipsch, Black/Copper/(Varies). Don’t get me wrong, this is just me nit picking. There are plenty of amazing speakers and looks vary person to person, I just know what I like haha. Great video again Andrew, I don’t know why I chose your comment section to vent about the Ebony/Piano Black only option trend.

[@thewinechairman533]

Love your honest reviews! They sound inefficient...they would not work at all with my technics vintage receivers...review next...love my bower wilkins s2 707's! Like to hear what you think...thank you!!!

[@KristiWright]

the winechairman Thank you for watching!

[@nonametofame]

Great video, and the "ending" should be included in every post! This review echos what another excellent KZbinr claims, "convenience always trumps quality"

[@KristiWright]

Dat Nguyen We appreciate you watching 😊

[@garyb2042]

Quick question re the stands used in this video - what brand are they as I have the L200's and want a stand that will fill the whole footprint of the speaker. I also watched your R200 review but those stands were not the same - thanks in advance.

[@matthewgabel1896]

You said this is not one to place in a cabinet, or on a bookshelf and that there are speakers better suited for this. . I am in the unfortunate situation of having to place speakers in cabinets. Can you recommend something that's similar sized to this?

[@cranixten2620]

They need a lot of power,more than likely due to a complicated x over. Does Polk give x over specs or slopes? 4th order I bet??

[@kevinfestner6126]

I would compare these to the old ESS PS-820 speakers with the Heil Air Motion driver for those of us who love old audio equipment. You can get a pair for around 300 refurbed, and it has that gorgeous wood.

[@lesmatthews459]

I had a pair of ESS years ago and sorry I ever got rid of them!!

[@JuanLega]

I think the hard to drive issue you mentioned is due to their drivers containing a double spider in them.

[@m.r.3128]

Kudos Andrew, however, how about you shoot for something (almost) comparable? In your recovery, you may have (tripped over) observed the LSiM & rti floor standing series from Polk. Has Polk changed it’s clientele base to a somewhat more affluent demographic? I shall soldier on with the 10b’s for now, but, your suggestion for a new pair of floor standing units would be highly valued, Klipsch maybe viable, but I have concerns. I’m boarder line gearing up just to build my own; but, the 707 and a9 are/were very good bench marks without the wicked price tag✌🏽

[@indianapolisindiana7856]

I was looking to get Emotiva B1+ or B2+ for my computer, but now I'm thinking about these L100's. They would certainly look a lot better! People rave about the sound of the Emotiva's. Any thoughts?

[@rabb1t457]

I saw the Heresy IV in the background of your last video. Going to post a review? I just purchased a pair, has not arrived yet...

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Review is coming soon.

[@thomassiegers3007]

I’m looking at Polk s55 ore Paradigm 6000f Whut is the better one

[@felixlaboy1453]

Amazing video as always buddy. ? Do think The L100 will pair well with a Crown XLS 1002

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Yes, it does. But our Pro-ject MaiA D2 does better.

[@felixlaboy1453]

Andrew Robinson Thank you for the fast reply your videos are amazing and they always help me make my decisions can I ask you one more question for a $500 budget can you recommend a preowned that I can use with the crown thank you very much for any advice and help once again keep up the amazing work

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Emotiva BasX Series is a great option at this price point.

[@felixlaboy1453]

Andrew Robinson Thank you very much for your time and advice I really appreciate it in light of other events please be careful with what’s going on out here I’m here in New York and the situation is getting a little intense with what’s going on take care and be careful

[@BARBELLS-AND-BUDS]

I love ring radiator it ring dome tweeters, but as accurate as they are they do lose off axis response in my experience. I have Peerless and Vifa models.I do toe in the towers in that i made using the Peerless variety (XT25BG60-04). Originally purchased for my dash but I didn't like the effects of sound in my car.

[@MichelLinschoten]

bassmansoundking99 those ring radiators are super old principle wise. Like you said vifa I think even scanspeak makes them still too

[@silviopimentel7247]

Im totally bought on decware zen amp! Will be shopping on front end. But was wondering what you can tell me on a good speaker for it? Since im terrible on saviness to search for it on line. (Basically dinosaur) on social internet. Thank u so much. U probably don't have time to reply but guess it won't hurt to ask. Love & trust ur opinion 👌✌

[@michaelschafer6379]

I like the sound of MY system!

[@gnevos]

As someone who had the Polk l100s in my home I agree with most of your points. Except for me it was the first time I had tried speakers in that price range. So I was blown away by the on axis performance. But like you said they needed to be very tuned in and even slight variations in my head placement changed the sound which in the end was too distracting for me. Like I needed a head vice to listen to them. Not speakers for thrashing your head for sure. I would love a video outlining the best "stuff it in your BDI Octave" speakers. Speakers that don't demand your floor space to sound good. I know you liked the XTZs but what others are your personal favorites that you can easily go out and buy? Alternatively, similarly to Darko, what speakers and components could easily fit on an Ikea Kalax for the more budget conscious of us?(e.g. millennials and gen z)

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I appreciate you weighing in with your experience. Some of the videos and topics coming up will likely address your requests more or less 👍.

[@thatdrummer23]

I have the Lsi m703 and they sound great, so if you can find them you can save a lot of money and have better sound.

[@pimpin94553]

i have the 703s and the 707s, great speakers. But i keep hearing that the Legend series is a step above in sound quality. I want to test it for my self so badly.

[@DaBakk88]

The Dynaudio Special 40 speakers are my favorite now;)

[@gnd144]

Triangle Esprit.

[@bitlandproductions]

I'm actually looking for an neutral spunding speaker - those are thecbest reviews on KZbin, take care Andrew!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thank you and take care as well.

[@triplelexxx9407]

I would like to see you review the airmotiv T2+ been seeing tons of amazing reviews....even saw a reviewer prefer the T2+ over the legendary tekton pendragons.......so i would love to hear your take on these.....

[@triplelexxx9407]

Nice review btw

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

thank you.

[@lordjjm]

Have you ever reviewed a Dali loudspeaker?

[@GuiltyRocker]

You need to review the Paradigm persona speakers.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Agreed. Maybe someday soon I will.

[@jordantewari]

I can hear the echo in that room. I must know.. how much does that effect your listening to music! Do you consider you might benefit from room treatment. I mean I would love to hear your thoughts on this observation.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Sir, you hear a faint trace of an echo in the audio because where I’m sitting in this recording is facing into a corner. It is 10 plus feet from my primary listening position and my voice is merely reflecting off those hard surfaces. The sound when seated in my primary listening position does not have the same properties as it does where I record. I know it’s not ideal, and I know I will forever be questioned about the so-called “sound” of my room, but truth be told I’m cool with it. I’ve been at this a long time and whether my room was covered in treatments or not would do little to ward off criticisms. So like I say in every video, the only person that has to like the sound of my system is me. And I do. But I also know that I didn’t arrive at that conclusion lightly. I know both scientifically and subjectivity what my room’s strengths and weaknesses are, and I can live with them. Thank you for watching and be well.

[@Cooliewhistles]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews Andrew you just thoughtfully and thoroughly replied to a potato...

[@joecharpentier6636]

.....and may I say, Thank you so much for saying that you dont go into stats because youre not listening to graphs and stats. I could not agree more. I had this discussion with the gentleman on another channel that relys solely on paper. Graphs blah blah blah. He didnt appreciate my opinions and i was subsequently blocked lol.

[@newpath.newpath2010]

Polk got put on the party map with its monitor 10s

[@bigjay1970]

Great review like always! The problem is it's not that these are a rip off but the fact that I bought my JBL 590 for less than a $1000 or 530 for $300🤔🤔 Oh wait, in today's marketplace, they are a RIP off with actually no fault of Polk unfortunately!🙄🙄🤔🤫🤯🤯😬😇 Wait till you see they used market with ultra highend stuff that people have to sell due to the Stock Market Collapse! I see very expensive and expensive for a reason, equipment in my near future!😬😬 Margin calls are a coming and even people with $100,000 systems may need cash fast. Audiogon is going to he flooded with stuff. Remember folks this is a luxury endeavor we enjoy here! Stay safe which is the most important thing here anyway!😇😷 Gene from Audioholics apparently has come down with the virus recently!🥺

[@OHMAudioChannel]

I, like you Andrew, enjoy a fun speaker. After your Heresy IV review, I have been irrationally trying to rationalize buying a pair.

[@KristiWright]

kernisme Nothing irrational about picking up a pair of IV’s. They’re fantastic.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

My Heresy IV review hasn’t been published yet. Do you mean the IIIs?

[@stevieg2755]

Yeah 4 k is a tough pill

[@OHMAudioChannel]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews Yes.. I mean III's... most embarrassing.

[@michaelschafer6379]

Seems the Polk marketing made all right ... and those speakers seem to deserve it!

[@onionknight9431]

I have Kef R11 meta in my primary system, Polk L100 for desktop nearfirld. Let me just say I would've gotten the L600 if they made glossy finish or something like the Lsim. The Legend is that good.

[@carminedesanto6746]

Take a look at the Gershwin ( they are pricey) but so far the review are great.😎 And No Subwoofer Required 🥳🥳

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Good tip!

[@barrysimmons49]

Compared to FOCAL 806?

[@borncues7223]

polk audio L100 better or Klipsch rp600m for movie in a small room < 10 foots x 15 foot > ?

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I would go Klipsch.

[@borncues7223]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews thx

[@indianapolisindiana7856]

Can anybody comment on the L100's in nearfield usage? I've always been interested by the L100's, but didn't really need new speakers anywhere. I'm now looking to upgrade my desktop speakers, and I'm wondering how these would perform. I have a large desk, so the speakers would sit on either side of a 43" monitor, maybe 6 feet apart and each speaker 4-feet from my position. Thanks!

[@emmanuelferguson]

Some reviewers lately have been saying the L800s are amazing, do you think they're just the specific niche that you mentioned?

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Different strokes for different folks.

[@emmanuelferguson]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews I suppose so

[@stephenoverton8352]

Nice review Andrew as usual. First, I think that all that "turbine cone" nonsense is just that...nonsense and just another marketing gimmick to justify the ridiculous price of the Legend Series. Second, having own several pairs of Polk's Monitor Series over the years, most of which were lively-sounding as well as efficient, it's surprising to see Polk has now gone in the opposite direction. What's even more surprising to me are the RIDICULOUS prices that they're charging for this new Legend Series line of garbage. For now I'll stick with companies like Klipsch and Tekton Designs since I love lively-sounding and efficient loudspeakers while scratching Polk off my list of speakers to audition. Thanks again for the thorough and honest review.

[@IsmaelMartinezPR]

Andrew, can you link the speaker stands.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

They’re the matching stands for the Buchardt S400 speakers. They don’t appear to be on their website anymore.

[@toddglenn7224]

So what is a speaker you like at this point i have not seen a speaker you like

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I like a lot of speakers. The JBL L100 Classic, XTZ Spirit 4 monitors, Kanto YU6, Klipsch Heresy IV (especially) are just a few that I think have been great so far.

[@bilguana11]

Please review the ELAC Vela 403. Thanks.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Will look into it.

[@Saturn2888]

Is there some way to measure "fun" sound?

[@Selrisitai]

He means that the sound isn't colored as much as he likes, e.g., the treble isn't especially intense and the bass isn't exaggerated.

[@royalway12]

For me, a fun sound, eventually equals fatiguing.

[@nl_2652]

Andrew, you should check out the Adam S2V!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I’ll have to check it out. Thank you for the tip.

[@willmac5642]

No specs? Wd help with system matching and an f3 wd also be useful imo

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I show the specs for this speaker at 2 minutes. What is an "f3"?

[@benitop.r.9619]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews When a speaker starts to roll off 3 db in the lower frecuency range. That is an f3.

[@barrysimmons49]

Which speaker do you consider "fun"'in this price range?

[@tracyherbert2978]

Can you Review the RTR Eviction Series EV15 ?

[@amb3cog]

I wouldn't hold your breath. Those aren't good speakers. Just loud and boisterous.

[@ParadigmAC]

I really like a lot of bass. For me what works for big bass is Cerwin Vega :) models like the AT 15s, VS 150s and D9s just to name a few.

[@marksomer5790]

I think polk audio made a mistake with there legend series , I have all the polk audio Lsi speakers they are amazing ! In my opinion the 707 tower speakers are the best at there price !

[@SkoomaSteve]

If you want to make the "curse" go away associated with the l800's.. just unplug the interconnect cable. I have a feeling that if you would have initially reviewed the L800's without the interconnect cable you would have gave them very high marks across a wide variety of music.. If you're anything like me.. the SDA effect instantly spoiled me, in that changing between songs or albums that do/don't shine creates disappointment.. but only because I never knew it could be so good! I never would have known about the imaging sins of the engineers otherwise (having non-SDA speakers). But, it's not the speaker's fault that sound engineer John Doe put more effort into track 1's imaging than he did track 2's. It is, however, the speaker's fault that you crave and want to gobble up every drop of that undeniable, straight-to-the-gut jaw dropping sound. SDA listening gives you almost an extra sense.. it gives you greater insight into the music and how it was made, what feelings were captured.. etc. I've also noticed poorly recorded, or "antique" music heard on SDA can have the opposite of a "curse" effect in that sounds come through better than any other listening method. Thoughts?

[@Marius.1926]

Hello this vs ls50?

[@fdude555]

I own the kef r3 and legend100. I prefer the legend it is more punchy, just as detailed, and has more in room presence. The kef r3 is more of an analytical speaker while the polk is something you enjoy music with.

[@stevieg2755]

Do you need active eq for sub?

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I suppose it all depends on your associated equipment.

[@stevieg2755]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews well most normal audiophile equipment is amp preamp etc,with the exceptions of McIntosh integrated eyv

[@scottlowell493]

FWIW: If the L800 did nothing for you personally, that's 100% fine. No one should be forced to praise something that doesn't appeal. For example: the wilson-watt puppy 5 did nothing for me. I like other speakers better that only cost a fraction as much. If someone else thinks the WP5 is the greatest, hooray for subjectivity.

[@KristiWright]

Scott Lowell Careful, that’s a very open minded thought to have in the audio space. 😉

[@scottlowell493]

@@KristiWright Normally, those words would be illegal in an audio forum, subject to the ban hammer. "One does not simply dismiss Wilson audio or costly hi-fi of that ilk". I do. I also have heard plenty of $$$$ that I don't like or has obvious flaws like a cheap product. I never say more $ always = better sound. It doesn't. Also...it's ok NOT to like a product at any price point. It's a subjective hobby to me, not a mental illness like some people have.

[@KristiWright]

@@scottlowell493 I admit I'm new to the hobby at the "audiophile" level. That said, being new to the hobby isn't to say that I haven't ALWAYS loved music, devouring it in all forms be it a live show or CD, record, streaming etc. It is eye-opening to see the links that some will go to in order to defend their stance. And seriously...Try being a woman in these threads. I swear if I see one more WAF comment, I may lose it. 🤣

[@thunderbird66613]

can't go wrong with Polks

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

If they're your jam, then no you cannot. Thank you for watching and for being a subscriber!

[@pluggedev8464]

Polk Hater

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I'm not, but appreciate you for watching nonetheless!

[@FatFolksProductions]

I think I'll stick with my Polk Signature Series. The Legend Series in my opinion isn't worth the asking price.

[@joeygonzo]

now down to $800

[@longplayer8600]

What is the deal with L200 reviews being so scarce?

[@pimpin94553]

I never see any L600 reviews either. A little disappointing actually.

[@gb3496]

@@pimpin94553 That usually means they suck... Professional reviewers usually don't publish reviews of speakers they didn't like...

[@plinyelder7984]

@@gb3496 I think the reserve series just overshadowed the Legends on arrival. I had both the R200 & L200 side by side. Finally sent the R200 back. The R200 is much easier to drive. Definitely close but with a high power 200wpc Acurus a2002 amp the L200 really sounded noticeably better. More fussy in placement & power for sure. If I had to use my 80 wpc integrated I'd have kept the R200.

[@longplayer8600]

@@gb3496 Not my experience. The L200 is better than the Reserve R200 which gets rave reviews. Noticeably better. 🤷🏻

[@xray111xxx]

Hmmm, I am not sure I would space these bookshelves this far apart. That even on this video looks like you lose the stereo coupling. You did complain already about the center fill. You had to toe them in. Well if toe in is not preferable, you have to make them closer together. Seems dreadfully obvious. I probably would never buy this speaker anyway as there are different solutions easier to live with. I do go back far enough easily for the SDA SRS. It was fine. I wasn't crazy for it then but did like them. Doesn't mean it is relevant for me now. Right now Klipsch is very much on my radar. The engagement is important to me. Yeah needs to be fun. I had other Polks back in the day. They were pretty good but not stop press quality. Your mileage may vary.

[@amb3cog]

Great video. I think Polk made a big mistake with this series myself. I was so excited at first, but now I'm like "whatever". If speakers aren't musical. I'm all set. And Polk has not had a problem with this before at all. Even my cheap Polk car audio subwoofer is very musical, as are my T50's I bought for fun, because they're so cheap. And they are fun too. After you set them up right. This is supposed to be entertaining after all, not scientific. Let's hope they see the error in their ways, and do something about it asap. Otherwise they'll only be selling home theater speakers at Best Buy. ✌️

[@KristiWright]

HH Scott I bet Polk wouldn’t see selling at Best Buy as a problem. 🤷‍♀️ Thanks for watching!

[@amb3cog]

@@KristiWright Nope, not at all. But they obviously care about the audiophile side too. Otherwise why would they have bothered to spend all this time and money designing them? Explain that one to me. And thanks for watching, smartass!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I’m pretty sure my wife, Kristi, was genuinely thanking you for watching. Not sure why you felt it necessary to escalate things the way you did.

[@amb3cog]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews Because I thought she was just another troll. Not sure how I'm supposed to know she was your wife Andrew? Her last name isn't even the same as yours. Please look at her comment from that point of view, bearing in mind all the smack that's talked on KZbin (especially in this hobby), and you might see why I responded the way I did. That being said. I apologize if I offended you, her, or anyone. I just thought it was a typical flippant troll response. But now that I see it was sincere. You're welcome. I enjoy your channel very much. ✌️

[@amb3cog]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews Maybe you should see if you can put her on your account. So her name is highlighted like yours is. To be honest, I never even looked at the name, but would have noticed it right away as the account holder of this channel had it been highlighted, like your name is. Have a great night. ✌️

[@richardmurphy9006]

Unfortunately plain too booth and the emotiva floor standers are no oil paintings but the price the price

[@tritiumglo4699]

I think I know what you are getting at. This speaker is no match for the Bose Acoustimass.

[@thomassiegers3007]

Bose sucks

[@tritiumglo4699]

​@@thomassiegers3007 Easy now. Bose was one of Andrews top picks.

[@MichelLinschoten]

Polk always done these quirky sda array type of speakers. It never was something that really worked for me either. I am familiar with their older series sda /srs Not a bad sounding speaker but seems to try to hard to be something it’s not. To bad, because all and all good speakers if they refrained themselves from those weird principles. You strike me as the more refined listener and appreciates a good bookshelf over a monstrous floor stander. Your room breaths that to be true too, seems geared towards monitor/bookshelf speakers. I am a planar guy myself I said goodbye to dynamic speakers a good while ago.

[@joeygonzo]

now down to $800

[@fdude555]

I have the L100 and honestly it can better my KEF R3 in some areas, i didnt expect it to. What a good deal if it is $800 if one can power it properly.

[@V1ralB1ack]

@@fdude555 It's a damn good speaker. I had the kef r300s but preferred my ls50s. Last year I bought the l200s and I still easily prefer the ls50s but the build quality and soundstage and sound signature of the l200s is very good as well. Idk why but the r300 sounded a bit too bass shy for me and when I heard the r3 got even less bass idk it just feels too thin. Maybe the r series towers will have better bass for me but I ended up getting some tekton speakers and they're honestly the best speakers I've ever heard hands down. They're like ls50s but with bass and bigger.

[@johnbrentford5513]

The L100 insists upon itself.

[@dougg1075]

Your just used to more efficient speakers. Welcome

[@kenmicallefjazzvinylaudiop6455]

"Recovering Audiophile" who reviews audiophile equipment ? Wha?

[@Selrisitai]

He considers "audiophile" to be a person more interested in technical accuracy and audio perfection than someone who prefers to spend his time actually enjoying music. There's an old joke: "Most people use their equipment to listen to music; audiophiles use music to listen to their equipment." This _can_ be a detrimental mindset, sending you chasing the dragon of aural nirvana. Andrew here has, unlike Atlas, shrugged the weight of that from his shoulders, and now focuses on whether he enjoys listening to a set of loudspeakers instead of whether they are delivering a technically "correct" reproduction of the sound.

[@royalway12]

Not to paint with a broad stroke, but I've also found audiophile types, to incessantly change equipment like underwear. If someone has the funds for that, then hey, it's a great time to be into this whole realm, given the massive choices.

[@TopperDude]

Kind of sounds a little like your faulting them for prioritizing neutrality and accuracy above everything else

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Not faulting them, just trying to give everyone as clear a picture as I know how to.

[@kdomster9141]

These may have higher quality thicker wire inductors for better performance and low loss low saturation and price is paid with its low sensitivity like other speakers in this price range. L100 should cost 600usd per pair as it will once discounted to 😉.

[@mikeboncheck5555]

so Polk sucks....per your previous video about the flagships....PER $$$ amount! I cant afford it anyway....Not the best bang for the buck...correct?

[@jordantewari]

I got to say.. Polk is a strange company.

[@stephencosta6814]

💪💪😍😍👍👍👌👌

[@stevekastner2825]

First world problems right bro

[@Billy-rr7re]

recovering in which way? going back to buying insanely overpriced hardware? or stop buying it?