Dayton Audio MK402BTX vs. Polk Audio TSi200

Dayton Audio MK402BTX Powered Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers Polk Audio TSi200 Bookshelf Speakers
MSRP
$150 $300
Dimensions (H × W × D)
9.50” × 5.75” × 6.63”
241mm × 146mm × 168mm
15.44” × 8.00” × 11.75”
392mm × 203mm × 298mm
Power Type
Powered Passive
Frequency Response
60-20,000 Hz 50-24,000 Hz
ASR Score
3.7 n/a
ASR Score w/Subwoofer
6.1 n/a
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: The Dayton Audio MK402BTX speakers offer a compact, budget-friendly choice with the bonus of Bluetooth connectivity, giving wireless convenience to those looking to minimize clutter. Their sound is surprisingly spacious for the size, with a punchy bass response. In contrast, the Polk Audio TSi200s, part of Polk's esteemed TSi lineup, present a more traditional wired setup with a focus on refined sound quality. These larger bookshelf speakers boast a dynamic range and detailed soundstage, catering to audiophiles who prioritize audio fidelity over modern connectivity features. The choice between them hinges on your balance of quality, convenience, and space.

Speaker Comparison

When it comes to setting up a home audio system, the speakers are undoubtedly the stars of the show. They are the voice of your setup, and their performance can either make or break your musical enjoyment. In this comparison, we'll pit the Dayton Audio MK402BTX Powered Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers against the Polk Audio TSi200 Bookshelf Speakers to see how they stack up in terms of features, sound quality, and value for audiophiles and casual listeners alike.

Design and Build Quality

The Dayton Audio MK402BTX speakers boast a sleek, compact form factor, with a classic black vinyl finish that will seamlessly blend into most room decors. In contrast, the Polk Audio TSi200 takes on a more traditional bookshelf design with a larger footprint, offering a choice of either cherry or black wood grain finishes. Both sets of speakers are well-built, but the Polk's larger cabinet potentially offers a sturdier foundation for the sound it produces.

Dayton Audio MK402BTX Powered Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers
Dayton Audio MK402BTX arrow (at Amazon.com)

Connectivity and Power

One of the most striking differences between the two is the MK402BTX's built-in Bluetooth connectivity, which allows for wireless streaming from a variety of devices. This feature adds a layer of convenience that the Polk Audio TSi200, which is a passive speaker requiring an external amplifier, simply doesn't have. On the other hand, the TSi200 gives the user more control over the choice of amplification, which can be a significant advantage for discerning audiophiles looking to tailor their sound experience.

Sound Quality

Sound quality is where things get interesting. The Dayton Audio MK402BTX speakers, despite their smaller size, produce a surprisingly full and balanced sound with a decent bass response for their class, thanks in part to their intricately designed crossover. The Polk Audio TSi200, however, with its larger drivers and well-tuned enclosure, delivers a more expansive soundstage, deeper bass, and clearer highs. The Polk's performance is particularly notable when it comes to handling dynamic shifts in music, providing a more immersive audio experience.

Polk Audio TSi200 Bookshelf Speakers
Polk Audio TSi200 arrow (at Amazon.com)

In relation to their respective price points, both the MK402BTX and TSi200 offer commendable performance. However, the Polk Audio TSi200's sound quality is arguably superior, reflecting its higher price tag. This makes the TSi200 a better choice for those who prioritize audio quality and are willing to invest in an external amplifier.

Verdict

To sum it up, the Dayton Audio MK402BTX Powered Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers are an excellent choice for those seeking a compact, convenient, and surprisingly robust audio solution. They're perfect for small to medium-sized rooms and are user-friendly for those who may not be versed in the complexities of higher-end audio equipment. The Polk Audio TSi200 Bookshelf Speakers, on the other hand, cater more to the dedicated audiophile market, offering superior sound quality at the cost of requiring additional components and a higher overall investment.

Ultimately, the choice between the Dayton Audio MK402BTX and the Polk Audio TSi200 comes down to personal preferences and requirements. If wireless connectivity and ease of use are your top priorities, the MK402BTX will serve you well. But if you're all about audio fidelity and have the resources to invest in a more elaborate setup, the TSi200 stands as a formidable contender in the realm of bookshelf speakers.


Check Current Prices:

Dayton Audio MK402BTX Powered Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers
Dayton Audio MK402BTX Powered Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers
Polk Audio TSi200 Bookshelf Speakers
Polk Audio TSi200 Bookshelf Speakers
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

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Disclaimer: the speaker data listed on this website are correct to the best of our knowledge, but we do not guarantee the accuracy of the data. Please double-check any measurements with the manufacturer before making a final purchasing decision.