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Add to SafariWhen comparing Polk Audio T15 vs Mackie CR3, the Slant community recommends Polk Audio T15 for most people. In the question“What are the best bookshelf speakers for $100?” Polk Audio T15 is ranked 3rd while Mackie CR3 is ranked 4th. The most important reason people chose Polk Audio T15 is:
These speakers are capable of producing clear sound in both high and low frequencies, even at high volumes. The highs do not sound too harsh and the bass, while not very powerful, comes with just the right level of punch. These speakers are great for small to medium sized rooms. Each speaker comes with 1 dynamic balance polymer woofer and a tweeter, both of which gives airy highs and a good amount of bass.
Specs
Question Ranking
Pros
Pro Produces a warm and smooth sound with clear highs and ample bass
These speakers are capable of producing clear sound in both high and low frequencies, even at high volumes. The highs do not sound too harsh and the bass, while not very powerful, comes with just the right level of punch. These speakers are great for small to medium sized rooms. Each speaker comes with 1 dynamic balance polymer woofer and a tweeter, both of which gives airy highs and a good amount of bass.
Pro Great build quality
These speakers not only look the part, but actually feel very well built as well. This can be attributed to the use of great quality wood in their construction. The fit and finish of these speakers is also top-notch.
Pro Can be set up easily
You do not need to do a lot of searching for speaker pairs as each T15 purchase already comes with both speakers. There are the standard positive and negative terminals at the back of each speaker to connect speaker wires to; no special connections are required.
Pro Elegant design
These speakers can match virtually any home decor or furniture thanks to their all black color and simple, no-frills design.
Pro Can be mounted to a wall
These speakers can be wall mounted if you prefer, thanks to the keyhole mounting points that can be found at the back of the speakers.
Pro You can select what channel the main speaker will be
It’ll be easier for you to position the main speaker as you prefer. At the back of the main speaker is a switch that allows you to select if the main speaker will be left or right channel. The other speaker will automatically be set to the other channel.
Pro Clear sound with good bass levels
The highs are clear and have okay detail. The mids are not very forward but they sound natural and full. The bass is quite powerful and will give music a boomy and thumpy feel.
Pro Two analog input options to choose from
You’ll have some flexibility as to the source devices that you can use with these speakers. You can choose between TRS or RCA inputs.
Pro Loud volume output
Despite the small size, these speakers can output good volume levels, enough to fill a small room with sound.
Pro Foam isolation pads included
Excess vibrations from the speakers to your desk won’t be too much of a big issue. Instead of stick on rubber feet, the CR3 speakers come with foam isolation pads which are quite good at minimizing vibrations.
Cons
Con You will need to buy your own speaker wires as these are not included in the box
You may experience some hassle during setup as these speakers do not come with their own connecting wires. You will have to purchase them separately, or use compatible speaker wires that you may already have.
Con These are passive speakers so they require a separate amp
These speakers will not work properly when connected directly to your computer, mobile phones, or similar line-level devices. These require a separate speaker amp or need to be hooked up to an audio receiver in order for them to be powered properly.
Con Heavy weight can make wall mounting difficult
The speakers are weighty so it would be more preferable to place the speakers on shelves or tables. Make sure to double check the security of their mounting if you decide to wall mount these.
Con No room compensation controls
You’ll have to take the extra time and effort to properly position these speakers. There are no bass compensation controls to adjust low-end output when positioning these speakers near a wall, so it’ll be much harder for you to get the proper bass response.
Con Bass can overpower the overall sound
The overall sound can get boomy and muddy. The bass is quite powerful so on bass-heavy tracks, the details of the music may be washed out.
