Polk Audio has announced the arrival of the React sound bar with Dolby Digital and DTS 5.1 virtual surround, plus Alexa Built-in capability. The new $249 sound bar can be used as a standalone unit or paired with Polk’s SR2 wireless rear surround speakers ($199) and/or React Sub wireless subwoofer ($199) for 5.1 surround, and all are available now for purchase.
“Polk Audio was the first audio company to partner with Amazon and create an Alexa-controlled sound bar in 2018. While the fruit of that initial effort—the Polk Command Bar—was a big success, we learned a lot about how to enhance a sound bar for an even better voice-controlled home theater experience,” said Michael McCole, senior marketing manager for sound bars at Polk Audio.
The React bar includes Alexa’s ‘Communication’ feature, which enables syncing of contacts in the Alexa app and the use of voice commands to communicate with friends and family in the US, Canada, and Mexico free-of-charge. Meanwhile, Alexa commands can be made via four far-field microphones, and React also works with Fire TV Stick or Blaster.
The sound bar sports a low-profile design so as not to block remote IR sensors and the unit can also be wall mounted. As well as preset sound modes Movie, Music and Night (the latter for reduced dynamics and improved dialog intelligibility at night), React can team up with the active SR2 wireless surround speakers and React Sub with its onboard 7-inch woofer to round out a discrete 5.1 sound field.
All three products are currently available direct from Polk or Amazon, as well as other authorized resellers.
Martin, a seasoned journalist and AV expert, has written for several notable print magazines. He’s served in key roles at Lucasfilm’s THX Division, NEC’s digital cinema division, and has even consulted for DreamWorks. Despite his illustrious career, Martin remains rooted in his passion for cinema and acting, with notable appearances in several Spielberg films, Doctor Who, and Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back. He currently resides in San Francisco.
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