SpeakerDecision
  • SPEAKERS
    • By Type
      Passive Bookshelf Speakers Passive Floor-standing Speakers Passive Center Channel Speakers Passive In-wall Speakers All Passive Speakers Powered Subwoofers Powered Stereo Speakers
      By Feature
      HDMI Input Room Correction Subwoofer Output Front Firing Port Handheld Remote Roon Ready
      By Brand
      Acoustic Energy Aperion ATC Audio-Technica Audioengine Bluesound Bowers Wilkins Buchardt Cambridge Audio Canton DALI Definitive Technology Dynaudio ELAC Emotiva Fluance Focal Fyne Audio Genelec GoldenEar Harbeth Jamo JBL Kanto KEF KLH Klipsch Leak Mackie Magnepan MartinLogan McIntosh Mission MoFi Monitor Audio Nuvo Onkyo OSD Paradigm Perlisten Polk Audio PS Audio PSB Q Acoustics REL Revel Russound Sennheiser Sonos Sonus faber Sony Spendor SVS Tannoy Technics Triangle Velodyne Victrola Wharfedale Wilson Audio Yamaha
  • AMPLIFIERS
    • By Type
      All Amplifiers Integrated Amplifiers Stereo Receivers Streaming Amplifiers Power Amplifiers Compact Amplifiers
      By Power
      Up to 60 watts 61 to 90 watts 91 to 120 watts 121 to 180 watts Over 180 watts
      By Feature
      HDMI Input Room Correction Subwoofer Output Handheld Remote Roon Ready
      Home Theater
      All Home Theater Receivers Anthem ARCAM Denon Integra JBL Marantz McIntosh NAD Onkyo Sony Yamaha
      Headphone Amps
      All Headphone Amplifiers Cambridge Audio iFi Audio McIntosh Naim Pro-Ject Rotel Schiit Audio Sennheiser Yamaha
      Multi-Zone
      All Multi-Zone Amplifiers JBL McIntosh OSD Rotel Russound Sonos
      By Brand
      Accuphase Advance Paris Anthem Arcam Audio Research AudioControl Audioengine Audiolab Bluesound Bose Buchardt Cambridge Audio Cayin Denon Devialet ELAC Emotiva Eversolo FiiO Fosi Audio Hegel HiFi Rose Integra JBL Layer Audio Design LEAK Luxman Marantz Mark Levinson McIntosh Michi MISSION MOON Musical Fidelity NAD Naim Onkyo OSD Parasound Pass Labs Peachtree PrimaLuna Primare PS Audio Rega Rogue Audio Roksan Rotel Schiit Audio Sonos Sony SVS T+A TEAC Technics Vincent WiiM Yamaha
  • SMART FIND
  • TOOLS
  • BLOG
  1. Home
  2. Polk Audio Speakers
  3. Passive Center Channel Speakers
  4. Polk Audio Blackstone TL1
Polk Audio Blackstone TL1 Review
Polk TL1 - Front View

Compare To

Main Features

  • 0.5" dome Tweeter
  • 2 x 2.5" Dynamic Balance Woofer
  • 125-20k Hz Frequency Response
  • 89 dB Sensitivity
  • Impedance: 8ohms
  • Power Range: 10-125 watts
  • Weight: 4.05 lbs / 1.84 kg
  • Dimensions(HxWxD): 3-15/16"x15"x3-7/16" / 101.0 x 381.0 x 88.0mm
MSRP: $79 (list price)
Check price atAmazon›
x
Add a Speaker for comparison
Polk TL1 Review
Polk TL1 Polk TL1
Check price atAmazon›

Made by Polk Audio · United States · since 1972 · sold through dealers

Polk Audio Blackstone TL1 is a 2-way Passive Bass Reflex Center Channel speaker by Polk Audio. It was released in 2016. Center channel speaker is an important component of a home theater system set-up as it delivers the listener significant part of the on-screen dialogue from your television. It features a 0.5" dome Tweeter and 2 x 2.5" Dynamic Balance Woofer. The speaker has a frequency range of 125-20k Hz and a sensitivity of 89 dB. Polk TL1 has an MSRP of 79$.

Room Size Suitability

The size of the room where you plan to use the Polk TL1 is a crucial factor in your decision. We have assessed its suitability for various room sizes based on its dimensions and maximum power output:

Listening Environment* Suitability
Near-fieldPoor
Small RoomAverage
Mid-size RoomGood
Large RoomAverage
Very Large RoomPoor

(* Approximate Room sizes: Small < 100sq. ft / 9 m2, Mid-size: 100-220 sq. ft / 9-20 m2, Large 220-400 sq. ft / 20-36 m2, Very Large: > 400 sq. ft / 36 m2. Average Floor Height: 9" / 2.7m. Typical room sizes differ from country to country, and the actual listening experience changes depending on floor height, room shape, surface materials, listening position, speaker locations, etc.)

Frequency Response of the Polk TL1 Speaker

Polk TL1 has a Frequency response range of 125-20k Hz and Power Range of 10-125 watts.

Here we have a comparison of how Blackstone TL1's Low frequency value compares with the average, max and min Low frequency values in its class.
Low Frequency
Center Channel Speakers
Polk TL1
Min
Average
Median

Impedance and Sensitivity

Polk TL1's nominal impedance level is 8 ohms and has a sensitivity of 89 dB.

Sensitivity
Center Channel Speakers
Polk TL1
Min
Average
Median

8 Ohms is pretty much the standard nominal impedance amongst stereo speakers and amplifiers so Polk Audio Blackstone TL1 is not considered a difficult to drive speaker from nominal Impedance perspective.

Sensitivity

89dB of the Polk Audio Blackstone TL1 is an average sensitivity for stereo speaker so it is neither easy nor difficult to drive Sensitivity wise. Work out how loud the Polk TL1 plays in your room →

What amplifier does the Polk TL1 need?

At normal listening levels in a medium room, about 9.5–125 W per channel into 8 ohms. Set your own conditions and we will rank every amplifier we cover.

We check power, impedance safety and current delivery - not just watts.

Prefer to browse? Integrated amplifiers under $300, or every amplifier we cover.

Input Type

Blackstone TL1 features 5-Way post type connectors.

Work out what gauge speaker cable this run needs →

Polk TL1 External Dimensions and Weight

Polk TL1 has external dimensions of (Height x Width x Depth) 3-15/16 x 15 x 3-7/16inch (101.0 x 381.0 x 88.0mm ).

Base Surface Area
Base surface area of a loudspeaker may become a determining factor when the space in your room or desk is limited. The base area of Polk TL1 is approximately 335.3cm2 / 52.0inch2.

Find speakers that fit your shelf or alcove →

Weight

The Polk TL1 weighs 1.84kg / 4lbs per piece. Here is a comparison of how Blackstone TL1's weight compares with the average, max and min weights in its class.

Weight
All Center Channel Speakers
Polk TL1
Min
Average
Median
Weight
Center Channel Speakers under $300
Polk TL1
Min
Average
Max

Cabinet type and Materials

Polk TL1 has a Bass Reflex type cabinet. Bass Reflex type loudspeakers (aka Ported, Vented or Reflex Port) have enclosures that uses a port, hole or vent cut into the cabinet. Ported designs are generally more efficient than the Sealed designs.

Port Position

Polk TL1 is a rear-firing port speaker so you have to make sure you leave enough space between the back of the speaker and wall or bookshelf so that it has room to breathe.

Available colors

Polk TL1 is available in Gloss Black.

Does the Polk TL1 come with a Grille?

Blackstone TL1 comes with magnetic grilles. The purpose of the grille is to protect the delicate driver elements from external impacts while still allowing the sound to pass as clearly as possible. Since the included grille of the Blackstone TL1 is magnetic type, it is very easy to put it on and off.

What's in the Box of Polk TL1?

Here are the items that are included inside the box of Blackstone TL1:
  • Gloss-black center-channel loudspeaker
  • Detachable black cloth grille (attached)
  • System Diagram/Warranty sheet
  • Template
  • Online Product Registration card
  • Important Safety Instructions

Recommended Accessories

Here is a list of accessories that we think you may need for the Polk Audio Blackstone TL1.

  • Speaker Cable and Connectors
    • Speaker Cables with Banana Plugs: If you know the lenght of the cable you need, this is the easier option to connect your speakers with your amp.
    • Speaker Cables without Connectors: If you are not sure about the lenght or need longer than standard cables with plugs, choose this option.
    • Banana Connectors and Plugs: If you chose the cables without connectors option or already have some cable around, pick the banana plugs separately.
  • Vibration Isolators: IsoAcoustics isolators are our favorite isolators but you may find more affordable options too.
  • Acoustic Panels and Treatments: Your room is as important as your stereo equipment so acoustic treatments goes a long way in improving the overall performance.

Warranty

5 Years of parts warranty and 5 Years of labor warranty is generally provided by the manufacturer.

Polk Audio Blackstone TL1 Alternatives in Passive Center Channel Speakers
Model Type Sensitivity Impedance Frequency
Polk XT35
Compare
2-way 87 dB 8 ohms 57-40k Hz
Polk TSi CS10
Compare
2-way 91 dB 8 ohms 63-24k Hz
Polk XT30
Compare
2-way 89 dB 8 ohms 55-40k Hz
Definitive ProCenter 1000
Compare
2-way 90 dB 8 ohms 47-30k Hz
Polk ES35
Compare
2-way 89 dB 8 ohms 66-40k Hz
Klipsch R-52C
Compare
2-way 95 dB 8 ohms 89-21k Hz
Sony SS-CS8
Compare
2-way 86 dB 6 ohms 55-25k Hz
Polk ES30
Compare
2-way 89 dB 8 ohms 55-40k Hz
Frequently Asked Questions about Polk Audio Blackstone TL1

What amplifier do you need for the Polk TL1?

Polk Audio rates the Polk TL1 for 10-125 watts of amplifier power. It is an 8-ohm speaker, the usual nominal load, so almost any amplifier or receiver can drive it.

Is the Polk TL1 easy to drive?

The Polk TL1 has a sensitivity of 89 dB. That is about average for a home speaker, so it is neither hard nor especially easy to drive.

Does the Polk TL1 need a subwoofer?

The Polk TL1 reaches down to 125Hz (full range 125-20k Hz). That leaves the lowest octaves out, so a subwoofer will make a clear difference for films and bass-heavy music.

What drivers does the Polk TL1 use?

The Polk TL1 is a 2-way design using a 0.5" dome tweeter and 2 x 2.5" Dynamic Balance woofers.

Is the Polk TL1 sealed or ported?

The Polk TL1 uses a Ported enclosure. A ported design uses a tuned vent to get more low-end output from the same driver, but it wants some breathing room behind it.

Can the Polk TL1 be wall mounted?

The Polk TL1 does not include a wall-mount bracket or keyhole, so it is designed to sit on a stand, shelf or the floor.

Does the Polk TL1 come with grilles?

Yes. The Polk TL1 comes with removable grilles.

How big and heavy is the Polk TL1?

The Polk TL1 weighs 1.84kg / 4lbs each and measures 3-15/16 x 15 x 3-7/16inch (HxWxD).

How much does the Polk TL1 cost?

The Polk TL1 has a manufacturer's list price (MSRP) of $79 per pair.


Polk TL1 Detailed Specifications

General
BrandPolk Audio
Full Model NamePolk Audio Blackstone TL1
Speaker Type2-way Center Channel
Power Range10-125 watts
Sensitivity89 dB
Impedance8 ohms
Frequency Response125-20k Hz
Release Date2016
DRIVERS
Woofer Size2.5-inch
Woofer CompositionDynamic Balance
Tweeter Size0.5-inch
Tweeter Typedome
Port Positionrear

CONNECTIONS
Connector Type5-Way post
Port Positionrear
PHYSICAL SPECS
Height101.0mm ( 3-15/16-inch)
Width381.0mm ( 15-inch)
Depth88.0mm ( 3-7/16-inch)
Height101.0mm ( 3-15/16-inch)
Weight1.84 kg (4.1 lbs)
EnclosureBass Reflex
Available ColorsGloss Black
Mounting BracketNo
GrilleYes
Moisture ResistanceNo
OTHER
Handheld RemoteNo
Parts Warranty5 Years
Labor Warranty5 Years
Was this review useful?
Tell us what is missing or wrong and we will fix it.
Thanks. Anything you would add?
Optional, and it goes straight to the person who maintains this page.
Thanks - noted.
LATEST BLOG POSTS

TAD's New Class D Amplifier Weighs 29 kg. Only One of the 72 We List Is Heavier.
The Marantz MCR 60n Has a CD Player, a Phono Stage and HDMI eARC. Nothing Else We List Has All Three.
Kanto Replaced the TUK With Two Speakers. Neither Has the Phono Stage.
A Triode Switch Used to Start at 3,495 Dollars. The Cayin Jazz 70 Is 1,399.
A 1,499 Dollar 300B Amplifier, and What Ten Watts Can Actually Drive
Triangle's Solstice Range Replaces the Esprit, and Every Cabinet Got Bigger


Latest Passive Center Channel Speakers
Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-5403C
Klipsch RP-5403C
2-way Center Channel | 96 dB | 8 ohms
Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-5203C
Klipsch RP-5203C
2-way Center Channel | 94 dB | 8 ohms
Triangle Solstice C3
Triangle Solstice C3
2-way Center Channel | 92 dB | 8 ohms
Revel Performa4 C245
Revel Performa4 C245
2-way Center Channel | 86 dB | 6 ohms
DALI SONIK CINEMA
DALI SONIK CINEMA
2-way Center Channel | 89.5 dB | 6 ohms
Monitor Audio Silver Centre 8G
Monitor Audio Silver Centre 8G
3-way Center Channel | 89 dB | 8 ohms
Wharfedale Diamond 12.Ci
Wharfedale Diamond 12.Ci
2-way Center Channel | 90 dB | 8 ohms
Focal Omada Center
Focal Omada Center
2-way Center Channel | 91.5 dB | 8 ohms
Monitor Audio Bronze Centre 7G
Monitor Audio Bronze Centre 7G
2-way Center Channel | 88 dB | 8 ohms
Wharfedale EVO5.C
Wharfedale EVO5.C
2-way Center Channel | 89 dB | 4 ohms


This site contains affiliate links. We may be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through one of them. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Copyright © 2026 by SpeakerDecision
About Privacy Contact US Camera Decision