Polk Audio Signature Elite ES08 Subwoofer

Active bass in a compact enclosure

The single Signature Elite ES8 Subwoofer completes a stereo or home cinema system.

The Polk Audio Signature Elite ES8 is a single powered subwoofer with a forward-facing 8" mineral-filled polypropylene woofer. It is the smallest of the three Signature Elite subs, adding low frequencies to stereo or cinema without the space needed by the 10" and 12" models. Its amplifier and controls are built into the cabinet.

Connections include an RCA LFE input for an AV receiver and two stereo line-level RCA inputs. The subwoofer needs mains power; it does not connect to passive speaker terminals like an ordinary loudspeaker. The forward-facing driver and one internal Power Port make placement flexible, although room for the cabinet and cables is still necessary.

Key features

• Forward-facing 8" woofer and built-in amplification
• Inputs: RCA LFE and two stereo line-level RCA
• -3 dB response: 32-180 Hz
• W x H x D: 32.5 x 38.4 x 38.6 cm
• 50-160 Hz low-pass filter and phase adjustment in 45-degree steps

Controls for system integration

Its -3 dB response is 32-180 Hz; the 28 Hz figure is measured at -10 dB and should not be treated as the same threshold. The low-pass filter adjusts from 50 to 160 Hz. Time-Smart Phase Control offers 45-degree phase steps, while DSP processes the signal and power-saving mode lowers consumption when idle.

For a compact cinema with ES10, ES15 or ES30 speakers, the ES8 is the first size in the subwoofer range. The ES10 moves to a 10" woofer with dual Power Ports and the ES12 to 12"; choosing a larger model depends on room size and the desired bass level. Check final placement from the usual seat.