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Polk Audio Command Bar Announced
The Polk Audio Command Bar was announced at press conference in Las Vegas to conclude day one of CES 2018. It is the first voice voice-controlled sound bar with built-in Amazon Alexa Voice Service. Sound quality is loud and rich, according to Polk Audio, and serves as an excellent home theater solution. The sound bar will be available to the U.S. in the spring 2018 for $299.95 and will be available in the UK, Germany, and Australia later in 2018.
Hardware includes far-field microphones, which allow for easy master volume control. Polk Connect Skill grants users control of the bass, sound modes, source selection, and mute toggling via voice commands. Also supported or a full range of home skills. Voice commands can control the lights, locks, and HVAC and other Amazon Alexa-supported music services. It can even read books from audible.
Two full-range drivers, tweeters, and a ported, wireless 6.5-inch subwoofer deliver a dynamic sound. Though the sound bar may reach great volumes, a duck button on the remote control lowers playback volume, making it easier for Alexa to register voice commands. Adjustable EQ settings are accessible and can be changed depending on the context.
A dedicated HDMI port—compatible with 4K HD TVs—means that the sound bar is compatible with Amazon Fire TV devices and other streaming hardware. The rear panel is outfitted with a built-in USB port that can power various devices. Additionally, Dolby and DTS surround formats create an immersive home theater experience.
The company will announce additional music service support later in 2018.