Polk Audio Signa S2 vs LG S6FTR
Quick Verdict
The Polk Audio Signa S2 and LG S6FTR are close budget soundbars with different strengths. The Polk is a slim two piece system with clear dialogue technology, a wireless subwoofer, and more wired inputs including HDMI ARC, optical, and AUX. It is the simpler choice for buyers who do not need rear speakers or app control. The LG is a 5.1 package with wireless rear speakers, Dolby Audio, AI Sound Pro, and LG WOW integration for compatible TVs. It is the better pick for LG owners who want actual surround channels. Neither model lists Dolby Atmos or DTS. Choose the Polk for simple wired flexibility and lower profile. Choose the LG for wireless surround and LG TV synergy.
| Spec | Polk Audio Signa S2 | LG S6FTR |
|---|---|---|
| Channels | Not published in listing | 5.1 channel (left, right, center, left rear, right rear, and a wireless subwoofer) |
| Drivers | Five full range drivers | Not published in listing |
| Power | Not published in listing | Not published in listing |
| Subwoofer | Wireless subwoofer included | Wireless subwoofer included |
| Dolby Atmos and DTS | Dolby Digital decoding listed; no Atmos or DTS formats listed | Dolby Audio support; no Dolby Atmos or DTS listed |
| HDMI eARC and inputs | HDMI ARC, optical input, AUX | HDMI ARC; no eARC or additional HDMI inputs listed |
| Wireless and streaming | Bluetooth | Bluetooth streaming, wireless rear speakers, LG ThinQ app control |
| Dimensions | Soundbar just over 2 inches tall; full dimensions not published | Not published in listing |
| Remote and app | Not published in listing | LG Soundbar app, LG ThinQ app, WOW Interface via compatible LG TV remote |
| Included accessories | HDMI cable, optical cable, soundbar, wireless subwoofer | Wireless subwoofer and rear surround speakers; full accessory list not specified |
Sound Quality
The Polk Audio Signa S2 earns a sound quality score of 24 out of 30. The listing says it uses five full range drivers, but it does not publish the driver sizes or the total power output. The main advertised audio feature is VoiceAdjust technology, which is designed to make dialogue clearer without boosting the entire volume.
The LG S6FTR scores 21 out of 30 for sound quality. It is a 5.1 channel system with left, right, center, and two rear channels plus a subwoofer, but the listing does not publish driver sizes or power output. LG highlights Dolby Audio support and AI Sound Pro, which is described as automatically adjusting sound to clarify vocals and effects.
On paper, the Polk has a slightly higher sound quality score, but the comparison is not fully direct because the listing does not state the Polk channel count. The LG has more defined channels and includes rear speakers, which can improve placement and immersion. Buyers who only need clearer center channel dialogue may favor the Polk, while those who want a true front and rear soundstage may lean toward the LG.
Surround, Atmos and Audio Formats
The Polk Audio Signa S2 receives a surround and audio formats score of 7 out of 15. Its listing states Dolby Digital decoding, but there is no mention of Dolby Atmos or DTS support. The listing does not publish a channel count, so it is unclear whether the system is 2.0, 2.1, or another configuration.
The LG S6FTR scores 10 out of 15 in this category. It is described as a 5.1 channel system with dedicated rear surround speakers, which means it can produce actual surround effects rather than simulated surround. The listing includes Dolby Audio support but does not list Dolby Atmos or DTS. So both are limited in object based formats.
Neither model supports Dolby Atmos or DTS according to the published listings. The LG has a definite advantage in channel count and real rear speakers because the Polk listing does not specify any surround channels. If surround channels are a priority, the LG is the clearer choice. If you only need basic Dolby Digital decoding, the Polk may be enough.
Subwoofer and Bass
Both soundbars include a wireless subwoofer in the box. The Polk Audio Signa S2 lists a wireless subwoofer as an included accessory, but the listing does not state its driver size, power, or frequency range. This subwoofer should add low end weight compared to a soundbar alone.
The LG S6FTR also includes a wireless subwoofer, and it adds two wireless rear surround speakers that the Polk does not list. The LG listing gives no subwoofer driver size or power output either. So bass performance is impossible to compare from these published specifications.
Because neither brand publishes subwoofer wattage or driver dimensions, the only concrete difference is that the LG package includes rear speakers while the Polk package is a simpler soundbar and subwoofer only. Buyers who want deeper action or music bass cannot choose based on numbers here. They must rely on general brand reputation or return policies, not on published specs.
Connectivity and TV Setup
The Polk Audio Signa S2 offers HDMI ARC, optical input, and a 3.5mm AUX input for wired connections. It also has Bluetooth for wireless streaming from phones and tablets. The box includes an HDMI cable and an optical cable, which makes initial setup easier for many buyers.
The LG S6FTR lists HDMI ARC as its main TV connection, but it does not mention eARC or any additional HDMI inputs. The listing does not state an optical or AUX input for the LG, so older TVs without HDMI ARC may be harder to connect. It does include Bluetooth streaming and wireless rear speaker connectivity.
The Polk has a broader wired input selection than the LG based on the published facts. The LG relies heavily on HDMI ARC and Bluetooth, plus its app control. If you need to connect an older TV or a secondary device, the Polk is more flexible. If you have a recent TV with HDMI ARC and prefer wireless rear speakers, the LG works well.
Features, Apps and Voice Control
The Polk Audio Signa S2 listing does not publish any information about a remote control or a companion app. This is a notable gap because many buyers expect at least a basic remote. There is no mention of voice control or Wi-Fi streaming either. The only wireless feature listed is Bluetooth.
The LG S6FTR includes the LG Soundbar app and LG ThinQ app for control, which suggests EQ adjustment and setup can be done from a phone. It also offers WOW Interface, which can let a compatible LG TV remote control the soundbar. There is no built in voice assistant or Wi-Fi, Apple AirPlay, or Chromecast listed.
The LG has a clear feature advantage because its apps and WOW Orchestra integration are published and useful for LG TV owners. The Polk appears to rely on TV remote control over HDMI CEC, but the listing does not state this. If app control and TV remote integration matter, the LG is the more complete package. If you prefer a minimal setup without apps, the Polk may be simpler.
Design and Fit Under a TV
The Polk Audio Signa S2 is described as just over 2 inches tall, which is slim enough to fit under many wall mounted or stand mounted TVs without blocking the screen. The full length, depth, and weight are not published, so buyers cannot confirm how wide it is or how much clearance it needs. This slim height is a clear advantage for low profile setups.
The LG S6FTR listing does not publish any dimensions or weight, so buyers cannot plan for how much space it will occupy under a TV or on a media console. It includes a soundbar, a subwoofer, and two rear speakers, which adds more physical components to place in the room. Those rear speakers may need stands or shelf space.
The Polk has one known dimension, the height just over 2 inches, while the LG has none published. This makes the Polk easier to evaluate for under TV placement at a glance. The LG may still fit fine, but the listing does not state it. Buyers who need a compact, low profile bar should lean toward the Polk just for that published height and simple two piece layout.
Who Should Buy It
The Polk Audio Signa S2 is best for buyers who want a slim, easy to set up budget soundbar with a wireless subwoofer and basic TV connections. It suits people who do not need Dolby Atmos or DTS and who mainly want deeper bass and clearer dialogue from their TV shows and movies. The included HDMI and optical cables reduce the need to buy extra accessories.
The LG S6FTR is best for LG TV owners who want a budget 5.1 surround setup with wireless rear speakers and a wireless subwoofer. It is a practical choice for people who want actual rear channels without running wires or buying an AV receiver. The WOW Orchestra and WOW Interface features make it especially appealing when paired with a compatible LG television.
Both are entry level home theater options, but they serve different room priorities. The Polk is a two piece upgrade for smaller rooms and simple setups. The LG is a four piece package for buyers who want a more enveloping sound stage. Your room size, TV brand, and desire for rear speakers should guide the decision.
The Deciding Question
The deciding question is whether you need real rear surround channels and LG TV integration, or whether a slim two piece soundbar with more physical inputs is enough. The Polk Audio Signa S2 keeps the system to a soundbar and subwoofer, with HDMI ARC, optical, and AUX. The LG S6FTR uses a soundbar, subwoofer, and two rear speakers, but it only lists HDMI ARC and Bluetooth.
If your main goal is clearer voices and added bass for a living room or bedroom TV, the Polk's VoiceAdjust and wireless subwoofer address that directly. If your main goal is hearing effects behind you during movies and games, the LG's 5.1 channel setup with wireless rear speakers is the only one of the two that can do that.
The answer depends on your TV and your space. LG TV owners who want app control and WOW features will likely prefer the LG. Buyers with older TVs or secondary devices may need the Polk's optical and AUX ports. Neither model is future ready for Dolby Atmos, so that factor does not change the decision.
Who Should Buy Which
Choose the Polk Audio Signa S2 if you want a slim soundbar under 3 inches tall that includes a wireless subwoofer and supports HDMI ARC, optical, and AUX connections. It is the better pick for buyers who want included cables, a basic audio upgrade, and do not need rear speakers or a remote app. Its higher sound quality score and lower complexity make it a safe simple choice.
Choose the LG S6FTR if you own a compatible LG TV and want a complete 5.1 home theater layout with wireless rear speakers and app control. It is the better pick for buyers who want WOW Orchestra and WOW Interface integration, dedicated rear channels, and do not mind the lack of optical and AUX inputs. The LG's feature set is tighter with LG televisions.
If you cannot decide, the deciding factors are rear speakers and TV brand. The Polk is not listed as having rear speakers, while the LG includes them. The LG also has published app support and AI Sound Pro. The Polk has more wired ports and a known slim height. These are the concrete differences that matter for an entry level upgrade.
Polk Audio Signa S2
Pros
- Slim profile at just over 2 inches tall
- Wireless subwoofer included for deeper bass
- HDMI ARC, optical, and AUX inputs cover common TV connections
- Bluetooth streaming from phones and tablets
- VoiceAdjust technology designed for clearer dialogue
- Includes HDMI and optical cables for quick setup
Cons
- No published power output or driver specifications
- No Dolby Atmos or DTS decoding listed
- No Wi-Fi or network streaming, Bluetooth only
- No mention of a remote control or companion app
- Dimensions beyond height are not published
LG S6FTR
Pros
- 5.1 channel layout with dedicated rear speakers
- Wireless subwoofer and wireless rear speakers reduce cable clutter
- Dolby Audio and AI Sound Pro aim to clarify vocals and effects
- WOW Orchestra and WOW Interface integrate with compatible LG TVs
- LG Soundbar app and LG ThinQ app offer EQ control
Cons
- No Dolby Atmos or DTS support listed
- No eARC or additional HDMI inputs mentioned
- Driver sizes and power output not published
- No Wi-Fi, Apple AirPlay, or voice assistant listed
- Dimensions and weight not provided for fit planning
Who Should Buy Each
Polk Audio Signa S2
- TV owners with limited space under the screen
- Listeners who want clearer dialogue and a compact subwoofer
- Buyers who prefer HDMI ARC or optical wired connections
- Bluetooth music streamers who do not require Wi-Fi multiroom audio
LG S6FTR
- Buyers with LG TVs that support WOW Orchestra and WOW Interface
- Listeners who want true 5.1 surround without an AV receiver
- Budget minded buyers who prefer wireless rear speakers and a wireless subwoofer
- Viewers who prioritize clear dialogue and automatic sound modes over object based audio
Quick Decision Guide
| If you need optical or AUX inputs for an older TV or a game console | Choose Polk Audio Signa S2 |
| If you own a compatible LG TV and want WOW Orchestra and app control | Choose LG S6FTR |
| If you want dedicated rear surround speakers in a budget package | Choose LG S6FTR |
| If you need a soundbar known to be just over 2 inches tall for clearance | Choose Polk Audio Signa S2 |
| If you want the box to include HDMI and optical cables for immediate setup | Choose Polk Audio Signa S2 |
FAQ
About This Comparison
Mandrillis Team
The Mandrillis editorial team researches and compares audio and music gear using manufacturer documentation, verified specs and real buyer feedback, so you can make a confident purchase without wading through marketing claims.
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