Polk is angling at upgrading your desktop audio system with a set of powered speakers that package clean looks, warm sound and versatile performance. The new Hampden speakers combine old-school teak-veneer style with the latest wireless technologies. Polk claims that they deliver the performance of a bookshelf speaker in a small package built to flank your monitor.
If you're the type that spends thousands of dollars on high-end headphones and/or audiophile-level stereo gear, only to spend half your time listening to compressed digital music over tiny, tinny computer speakers, the Hampden may be just the upgrade you need. Each speaker packs a 1-inch silk/polymer tweeter with a 4.5-inch polypropylene woofer, both driven by dedicated amps. The Hampden's tilt-back body is designed to lift the sound field right to your ears, providing better immersion in your music and audio.
Thanks to their wood cabinets, the Hampdens look as much like desk decor as computer speakers. Polk injects them with a retro look reminiscent of classic speakers from its archives. That heritage look gets a modern update with an all-white face and glass-filled-nylon bezels.
The speakers offer a variety of connection options, including USB, Bluetooth and an auxiliary input. Polk's DJ Stream app allows up to four "DJs" to connect and build a master playlist from their individual devices.
Polk launched the Hampden last week for US$399.95 per pair. The DJ Stream app is available for free download on both the App Store and Google Play.
Source: Polk
