The Polk Audio MagniFi Mini AX is a 3.1-channel soundbar from Polk Audio, listed at $499. It ships with a wireless subwoofer, so the price covers the bass as well as the bar.
Polk Audio MagniFi Mini AX Pros and Cons
Drawn from the published figures on this page, not from listening.
- ✓Decodes both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
- ✓A dedicated centre channel for dialogue
- ✓Subwoofer included in the box
- ✓Can grow into true surround with optional rear speakers
- ✓HDMI eARC carries lossless Dolby TrueHD and Atmos from the TV
- ✓Wi-Fi streaming with AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect
- ✓Dialogue enhancement and a night mode
- ✓Learns your TV remote
- ✓Compact at 14.44 in wide - fits small TVs and tight spaces
- ✗Decodes Dolby Atmos but has no height channels, so overhead effects are simulated
Channels and Surround Sound
The 3.1 badge means 3 ear-level channels (left, centre and right), 1 subwoofer channel. It decodes Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, but with no height channels the overhead layer is created by processing rather than by drivers aimed at the ceiling. Virtual surround: SDA Surround.
Subwoofer, Rear Speakers and Mounting
A wireless subwoofer is included, measuring 7.25 x 14.56 x 15.88 in (W x H x D). Rear surround speakers are optional, so it can become a true surround system later.
Connections
The Polk Audio MagniFi Mini AX has HDMI eARC to the TV - the connection that carries lossless Dolby TrueHD and Atmos from the TV's own apps and inputs; optical digital input; 3.5mm analogue input.
Streaming, Control and Sound Modes
Wi-Fi (2.4, 5.0 GHz), with AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, TIDAL, Pandora, SiriusXM, TuneIn, YouTube Music; Bluetooth; voice control: Google Assistant optional; app control (Apple iOS, Android); a remote in the box. Sound features: dialogue enhancement, night mode, learns the TV remote.
Size and Which TV It Suits
The bar measures 14.44 x 3.13 x 5.25 in (W x H x D), or 367 x 80 x 133 mm. It is no wider than the screen of a 32-inch TV (27.9 in wide) or larger, which is where a soundbar looks in proportion. At 3.13 in tall it should clear the bottom of most TVs sitting on their own feet.
Open the soundbar size simulator to try another TV or compare two bars.
Polk Audio MagniFi Mini AX Specifications
| Sound |
|---|
| Channels | 3.1 |
| Dolby Atmos | Yes |
| DTS:X | Yes |
| Drivers | Tweeters: 0.5" (2); Midrange: 2" (3); Subwoofer: 5x7" Cone; Enclosure: Sealed (bar), Ported (sub |
| Subwoofer | Included |
| Rear speakers | Optional |
| Virtual surround | SDA Surround |
| Dialogue enhancement | Yes |
| Night mode | Yes |
| Room correction | No |
| Connections |
|---|
| HDMI to TV | eARC |
| HDMI inputs | 0 |
| HDMI version | 2.0 |
| Optical inputs | Yes |
| Analogue input | 3.5mm |
| USB | No |
| Subwoofer output | Wireless |
| HDMI CEC | No |
| Streaming and Control |
|---|
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac |
| Bluetooth | Yes |
| Streaming | AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, TIDAL, Pandora, SiriusXM, TuneIn, YouTube Music |
| Voice control | Google Assistant optional |
| App | Apple iOS, Android |
| Remote included | Yes |
| Learns TV remote | Yes |
| Physical |
|---|
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 14.44 x 3.13 x 5.25 in / 367 x 80 x 133 mm |
| Subwoofer size | 7.25 x 14.56 x 15.88 in (W x H x D) |
| Wall mounting | No |
| Warranty | 3 Years parts, 3 Years labour |
| List price | $499 |
Power is the maker's total across all drivers and is not comparable to an amplifier's per-channel rating.