Polk Redefines Home Theater Sophistication: New Blackstone Sub/Sat System

(Editorial Note: AVguide.com recently received word that Baltimore, MD-based Polk Audio was announcing the imminent release of a next-generation sat/sub-based multi-channel home theater speaker system based on the firm’s new Blackstone TL-Series speakers. Below, we present the text of Polk’s press release, plus an image of the new Blackstone system.)
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Polk Redefines Home Theater Sophistication: New Blackstone Sub/Sat System

Audiophile-Grade Technologies Deliver Category-Busting Sonic Performance

BALTIMORE, MD, August, 16, 2010 – Polk Audio®, the Speaker Specialists®, today announced the next generation of its multi-channel home theater speaker systems.

Polk, made famous for delivering “Big Speaker Sound Without The Big Speaker”, will soon ship the new Blackstone TL Series, a natural evolution of the company’s ground-breaking RM Series of surround sound speakers.

Infused with audiophile-grade technologies and components, the RM Series’ top-of-the-line Blackstone TL350/DSWPro 550w 5.1-channel sub/sat compact home theater system brings a truly sophisticated level of performance and sonic detail associated with systems that are many times the size and price.

“The Blackstone TL350 and DSWPro 550wi system is designed to be the bridge between the convenience of packaged combos and the sonic splendor of audiophile–grade equipment,” said Polk Audio Line Manager Al Baron. “By using many of the same driver elements found in Polk’s reference LSi series, our engineers are able to create a plug-and-play system with performance that belies its price tag.”

Comprised of four TL3 satellite speakers and one TL3c center channel speaker, the Blackstone TL3 satellite/center channel system (SRP: $749.95) relies on advanced Time Lens Technology to align the acoustic centers of the tweeter and mid-bass drivers for superior imaging, while the acoustic lens incorporated in the grille smoothes the tweeter’s frequency response to achieve a balance not previously thought possible in small, satellite speakers. The 3/4” ring radiator tweeter is the same one used in Polk’s award-winning reference LSi and LCi series of audiophile speakers to deliver accuracy and detail to beyond 30kHz, even when listening off-axis.

An optimized linear motion voice coil incorporated in the 3 ¼” mid-bass driver reduces distortion and extends dynamic range, while Polk Audio’s patented Dynamic Balance® Driver technology is mated with a 3 ¼” Aerated Polypropylene Cone (APP) to produce a flat frequency response with sharp detail, transparency, and the ability to turn up the volume without creating strain. For added rich, deep bass, the TL3 features Polk’s patented PowerPort® technology that decreases air turbulence, eliminating “port noise” and bass output losses up to 3dB.

Available in decorator-friendly Hi-Gloss “Blackstone” black or white finishes, the Blackstone TL satellite/center channel system is housed in a strong, steel-reinforced curved enclosure designed to deliver sound free of cabinet vibrations and less audible coloration from internal surface resonances. Five-way, heavy-duty metal binding posts accept 14-gauge cables, offering hookup versatility and secure connections with other source components in a home theater system.

Wireless-ready, the DSWPro 550wi subwoofer (SRP: $559.00) represents a best-case scenario for casual listeners and audiophiles alike. A simple plug-and-play kit adds flawless wireless capabilities in seconds, allowing consumers and installers more placement options and best possible bass performance without the bother of subwoofer cables.

Polk Room Optimizer™ (PRO) corrects for different positions of the subwoofer throughout the room, with four presets accessible from the subwoofer’s remote. An integrated intelligent digital amplifier instinctively delivers ample power for loud passages while using very little power at low volumes or standby mode. An included compact wireless transmitter connects to an A/V receiver, which then becomes empowered to send flawless bass signals to the subwoofer, with no latency and no compression.

In addition to the Blackstone TL3, Polk will deliver its Blackstone TL1 and TL2 Series models that further illustrate the company’s commitment to deliver high home theater performance in a compact system. Both models incorporate the TL3’s main technology attractions, including Time Lens technology, Polk’s Dynamic Balance® Driver Technology, a curved enclosure design, and the trademark Hi-Gloss “Blackstone” finishes.

The TL2 distinguishes itself from the more compact TL1 with its use of Polk’s patented PowerPort technology and features ¾” silk dome tweeters and 3 ¼” composite injection molded cones with Dynamic Balance® Driver Technology, while the TL1 Series employ ½” silk dome tweeters, 2 ½” long-throw drivers, and tuned satellite and center channel rear ports for superior blending with a subwoofer.

The TL2 will be available in two models: The TL250 High Performance 5-Piece Surround System (SRP: $499.95) and the TL2600 5.1 Package with Powered Subwoofer (SRP: $749.95). The TL1 Series will include the TL150 High Performance 5 Piece Surround System (SRP: $399.95) and the TL1600 5.1 Package with Powered Subwoofer (SRP: $499.95).

The Blackstone TL350/DSWPro 550W and TL2 models will ship in Q4. The TL1 Series is available as of this month.

About Polk Audio

Polk Audio (www.polkaudio.com) is an award-winning designer and manufacturer of high performance audio products and the largest audio brand of DEI Holdings, Inc. Founded in 1972, Polk’s products include loudspeakers and electronic components for home, auto and marine applications, the first satellite radio home component tuner, the world’s first audiophile-grade active IP-addressable loudspeaker, and the first THX Ultra2 Certified in-ceiling loudspeaker.