Have you ever dreamt of having awesome sound in your home, like in the movies or a live concert?
Well, you’re in the right place! In our Klipsch CDT-5800-C II review, we’re diving into this cool in-ceiling speaker that might just be what you’re looking for.
Imagine a speaker that fits right into your ceiling and fills your room with crystal-clear music or movie sounds.
We’ll tell you all about its design, sound quality and why it might be the perfect new gadget for your home.
Ready to find out more? Let’s get started!
Polk L600 Specs
Size and Weight: 15.9 x 12.96 x 46.69 inches / 87.1 Pounds
Colors: Black, Brown
Impedance: 4 Ohm
Frequency response range: 28Hz–50kHz
Sensitivity: 86 dB
Speaker Maximum Output Power: 200 Watts
Fully compatible with: Dolby Atmos, DTS, DTS:X, DTS:X Virtual, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization Technology, IMAX Enhanced, and Auro-3D.
Polk L600
Pros
- Solid Build Quality
- Excellent Bass Performance
- High-Quality Sound
Cons
- Size and Weight
🔊 DESIGN
A First Impression That Lasts
When the Polk L600 speakers first arrived at my doorstep, the anticipation was palpable. Unboxing them, the immediate impression was their solid feel and elegant design. Standing four feet tall and dressed in a choice of Black Ash or Walnut real wood veneer, these speakers command attention and respect. They’re not just audio equipment; they’re a statement piece for any room.
The Build: Robust Yet Refined
Handling the L600, its sturdiness is evident. The weight, a hefty 78 pounds, reassures you of its quality build. The wood veneer not only adds a touch of sophistication but also contributes to the overall robustness. It’s a pleasant contrast to the modern, glossy black front, which reflects my room’s lighting, giving the speaker a dynamic presence.
Design Details
Inspecting the design, the L600 showcases its acoustic prowess. The small yet powerful ‘Pinnacle’ tweeter, the ‘Turbine’ midrange cone, and the commanding woofers integrate seamlessly into the design. These elements are not just about the sound; their placement and integration into the speaker’s body are thoughtfully done, enhancing the aesthetic appeal.
Stability
Positioning the speakers in my living room, I appreciate the adjustable feet – a small yet significant feature. Whether on my plush carpet or the hardwood floor, the L600 stands unwaveringly stable. It’s reassuring, knowing that such a premium product is designed with practical considerations.
My Experience With Polk L600 Speaker
Having the Polk L600 in my space for several months now, it’s not just an audio device; it’s a part of my home. Its design complements my decor, and its robust build gives me confidence in its longevity. Every time I glance at these speakers, I’m reminded of the meticulous craftsmanship that Polk Audio has poured into them.
🎵 SOUND QUALITY
Having the Polk Legend L600 speakers in my living space has been an auditory revelation. From the moment I powered them up, it was clear that these speakers were about to redefine my listening experience.
Bass Response
The first thing that struck me was the bass. The L600’s enhanced Power Port technology delivers a bass that is not just heard but felt. It’s deep and rich, filling the room without overpowering it. Whether it’s the subtle low-end in a jazz piece or the floor-shaking rumble in an action movie, the L600 handles it with an effortless grace. The bass is clean and tight, a testament to the innovative design of the 7-inch woofers and the air-flow technology.
Midrange and Treble
As I explored various music genres, the Polk Audio L600’s prowess continued to impress. The midrange, powered by the Turbine Cone, delivers a buttery smoothness that brings vocals to life, especially noticeable in female vocals which are crisp and clear. The Pinnacle Tweeter, a true highlight, ensures that high frequencies are handled with precision. Even at high volumes, the sound never becomes shrill; it remains clear and airy, enhancing the overall texture of the music.
Soundstage
The soundstage these speakers create is nothing short of impressive. The placement of instruments and vocals is distinct, creating an immersive experience that is both wide and deep. Listening to live recordings, I felt transported to the concert hall, with each note and echo beautifully rendered. The L600’s ability to disappear and leave behind a seamless wall of sound is a feature that any audiophile would cherish.
Versatility Across Genres and Uses
The versatility of the Polk Audio Legend L600 is remarkable. Jazz tracks are handled with finesse, showcasing detailed and dynamic sound. Switching to classical music, the speakers reveal layers and textures, making each listening session an exploration. In a home theater setup, the L600 stands out too. The clarity in dialogue, coupled with the expansive soundstage, makes movie watching a truly cinematic experience.
A Daily Audio Experience With Polk L600
Every day, the L600 continues to surprise me. Be it a quiet evening listening to soft tunes or a weekend movie marathon, these speakers have become an integral part of my daily life. Their ability to handle different audio content with ease and maintain clarity and separation of sounds across volumes is a rare quality.
🔄CONNECTIVITY AND INSTALLATION
Bi-Wiring/Bi-Amping
One of the first things I noticed was the flexibility the L600s offer in terms of connections. The option to bi-wire or bi-amp these speakers is a game-changer. For audiophiles looking to extract every nuance of sound, this feature opens up a world of possibilities. The dual binding posts are not just about aesthetics; they provide a tangible improvement in sound quality. Bi-wiring, in particular, brought a noticeable enhancement in clarity and separation of frequencies.
Height Modules: Elevating Home Theater
For those inclined towards a cinematic experience, the Polk L600 Loudspeaker is compatible with the addition of L900 Height Modules. This compatibility ensures that the L600s are not just music speakers; they’re a complete home theater solution. Integrating the height modules was straightforward, and the result was an immersive, three-dimensional sound that added depth to movies and games.
Setup: A Surprisingly Smooth Process
Despite each speaker’s substantial weight – a hefty 78 pounds – setting them up was smoother than I expected. The heft of these speakers is a testament to their build quality, but it’s not a hindrance. The adjustable and convertible feet deserve a special mention. Whether on carpet or hardwood, these feet ensure the speakers are stable and perfectly angled for optimal sound dispersion.
Recommendations for Unleashing Their Full Potential
Give Them Space
The Polk Audio Legend L600 speakers love a bit of breathing room. Allowing them space not only enhances their aesthetic presence but also improves bass performance. In my setup, pulling them away from the wall opened up the soundstage and enriched the low-end response.
Toe-In and Power
Adjusting the toe-in – angling the speakers slightly towards the listening position – brought an immediate improvement in focus and soundstage definition. Additionally, powering these speakers with a robust amplifier (I recommend something with more watts) brought out their dynamic best. The difference in sound quality with adequate power is like night and day.
🎼 USABILITY
The usability of the Polk Legend L600 goes beyond just playing music or movies; it’s about how these speakers effortlessly adapt to the latest sound technologies, enhancing every listening experience.
Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
One of the most striking features of the L600 is its compatibility with advanced audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. These technologies are known for creating an immersive, 3D sound environment, and the L600s utilize them to their full potential. Watching movies with Dolby Atmos on these speakers is an enveloping experience – sounds seem to come from all around and above, adding a new dimension to home theater. The clarity and depth they bring to DTS:X tracks are equally impressive, providing a rich, detailed sound field that’s a delight for any audiophile.
IMAX Enhanced: Bringing the Theater Home
As an IMAX Enhanced certified speaker, the L600 delivers a level of performance that meets the high standards set by IMAX. This certification ensures that the speakers accurately reproduce the full dynamic range of IMAX soundtracks. The result is a more vivid, powerful audio experience that’s akin to being in an IMAX theater.
Usability in Everyday Life
Whether it’s the front stage of a home theater setup or serving as side and rear surrounds, the L600 adapts seamlessly. This versatility means that these speakers are not just limited to one type of use; they can be the star of a music listening session or an integral part of an immersive movie experience.
⚖️Comparison with Competitors
Polk L600 vs KEF R7
Comparing the L600 to the KEF R7 reveals another aspect of its superiority. While the R7 is celebrated for its Uni-Q driver array and natural sound, the L600’s larger driver configuration delivers a more powerful and dynamic bass. This makes the L600 particularly appealing for those who enjoy the depth and intensity of bass-heavy music and want to feel the full impact of movie soundtracks.
Polk L600 vs MartinLogan Motion 60XTi
Against the MartinLogan Motion 60XTi, known for its crisp high-frequency response, the Polk L600 demonstrates a more balanced approach. It offers a cohesive listening experience that blends highs, mids, and lows seamlessly, making it a more versatile choice for a wide range of audio content.
Polk L600 vs Focal Aria 948
In the face of the French-designed Focal Aria 948, with its Flax cone technology, the L600 again asserts its dominance. Its Power Port technology ensures a deeper bass response and minimizes port noise, providing a cleaner and more impactful low-end than the Aria 948.
Polkk L600 vs Dynaudio Evoke 50
Lastly, when up against the Dynaudio Evoke 50, which is revered for its midrange clarity, the L600’s ability to create a wide and immersive soundstage truly sets it apart. This quality is particularly desirable for those seeking a theater-like experience in the comfort of their home.
💰 Price and Value
When you first look at the price of the Polk Legend L600, it’s clear these aren’t your average speakers. They’re a bit on the expensive side, but let’s see if they’re really worth it.
For the Sound Lovers
If you really love great sound, spending more on the Polk L600 can be a good choice. These speakers give you amazing sound quality, whether you’re listening to music or watching movies. They’re also built to last, which means you won’t have to think about replacing them for a long time.
Comparing with Other Big-Name Speakers
In the same price range, you’ve got speakers like the Bowers & Wilkins 603 S2 and the KEF Q950. Each of these has something special, like the B&W’s crisp high notes or the KEF’s wide sound. But the Polk L600 stands out because it’s great for all sorts of sounds and settings. It’s not just for music; movies sound fantastic on it too.
Is It a Good Deal?
Let’s Break it Down. The Polk L600 Offers:
- Top-notch sound for music and movies.
- Features like Dolby Atmos, making it ready for all the latest movies and games.
- A design that looks good in your living room.
Perfect for Home Theaters
If you’re setting up a home theater, the L600 is a strong choice. It fits right in with other high-tech gear and makes movies feel like you’re in a cinema. Plus, it looks nice, which is a bonus.
Thinking About the Long Run
The L600 is kind of like an investment. You pay more now, but you get a speaker that lasts and keeps sounding great. It’s not just about what you pay today, but about enjoying awesome sound for years to come.
Who Should Buy Polk L600?
So, who should think about bringing the Polk Legend L600 into their home? Let’s break it down to see if these speakers are a fit for you.
The Audiophile
If you’re someone who loves getting lost in the details of sound, the Polk L600 could be your new best friend. These speakers bring out the best in music, from the deep bass to the clear highs. You’ll hear every note, every beat, just the way it was meant to be heard.
The Movie Buff
Love movie nights? The L600 turns your living room into a mini-cinema. With features like Dolby Atmos, these speakers make it feel like you’re right in the middle of the action. Every dialogue, every sound effect is crystal clear. If you’re serious about your movie experience, the L600 won’t disappoint.
The Design-Conscious
Not only do these speakers sound great, but they also look great. If you care about how your living space looks and want a speaker that blends in with your style, the Polk L600’s sleek design and wood finish are perfect. They’re not just speakers; they’re part of your room’s decor.
The Tech-Savvy Homeowner
If you love having the latest technology at home, the L600 fits right in. With compatibility with the newest audio formats and easy integration into advanced home theater systems, these speakers are for those who want their tech to be up-to-date.
The Long-Term Listener
Thinking about the long haul? The L600 is built to last. It’s an investment for those who want a speaker that they won’t need to replace anytime soon. The quality and durability mean you’ll be enjoying great sound for many years.
Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: If you’re on a tight budget, the L600’s price might be a bit high. There are cheaper options out there that still offer good sound such as Sony SSCS3, Yamaha NS-F210BL, Klipsch RP-6000F, and ELAC Debut 2.0 F6.2.
- Casual Listeners: If you’re not too fussy about sound details and just need something basic, the L600 might be more than you need.
Real World Performance- Testing Across Different Scenarios
Home Theater (Rating: 9.2/10)
The L600s were a revelation in my home cinema setup. Their ability to deliver a wide, cinematic soundstage was nothing short of spectacular. Dialogue clarity in movies was exceptional, and the depth they added to soundtracks was immersive. They almost eliminated the need for a subwoofer, which is a rarity.
Diverse Music Genres Listening (Rating: 8.9/10)
Testing these with a variety of music genres was a delight. The L600s handled complex classical compositions with finesse, and jazz numbers felt lively and engaging. Even in bass-heavy tracks, they held their own, delivering a punchy and deep bass that was quite satisfying.
Gaming Experience (Rating: 7/10)
In gaming, the L600s were good but not groundbreaking. They provided a decent immersive experience in atmospheric games, but in fast-paced, competitive games, I missed the pinpoint audio cues that dedicated gaming setups offer.
Casual TV and Streaming (Rating: 8.5/10)
For everyday TV and streaming, the L600s were more than capable. News and dialogue-centric shows were crystal clear, and they managed to maintain a good balance of sound even at lower volumes, which is great for late-night watching.
Large Room Performance (Rating: 8/10)
In a large room, the L600s performed admirably, filling the space with rich and clear sound. They maintained their audio integrity even at higher volumes, though some very subtle details were lost in a larger setting.
Small Room Performance (Rating: 6.1/10)
In smaller rooms, the L600s’ performance was a mixed bag. Their power and scale, while impressive, can be overwhelming in confined spaces. It was a challenge to find a volume that was both satisfying and not overpowering.
Party Performance (Rating: 7.6/10)
For parties, the L600s were quite capable. They handled a variety of music genres well and were able to maintain clarity even in a noisy environment. However, for larger gatherings, additional speakers might be needed to distribute sound more evenly.
Conclusion
And there you have it, our full look at the Polk L600! I really hope this review has been a helpful guide in showing you why these speakers could be a great pick. The Polk L600 isn’t just any speaker – it’s like having a top-notch sound system that can turn your favorite songs and movies into something special.
If you’re thinking about upgrading your sound at home, or if you just love great audio, the Polk L600 is definitely worth considering. It’s got that perfect mix of awesome sound, cool design, and the latest tech that can make listening to anything a whole lot more fun.
But why stop here? If you’re curious about other speakers or headphones, we’ve got loads more reviews and guides for you. Whether you’re a music buff or a movie fan, or if you just want something that sounds good, we’ve got all the info you need to find your perfect sound match.
So, keep exploring, keep jamming to your tunes, and find the speaker or headphones that hit the right note for you. Check out our other reviews and guides to keep your audio adventure going. Happy listening!
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Monica Rivas is a Reviewer and Content Manager of Audiofavorite, she is an audiophile for many years and she helps people to learn all they need about audio, speakers, sound etc.