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Bookshelf speakers are ideal for people who have small to medium-sized spaces. Not only that but they also make an excellent addition to those who have a larger surround sound system. Deciding which are the best bookshelf speakers are perfect for your setup depends on the style, value, and obviously sound quality.
Today, we will be comparing the Micca MB42X vs Polk T15. After looking at all of the technology and specifications, we will add a comparison chart and some pros and cons before deciding which of the bookshelf speakers are the better buy.
The Micca MB42X and the Polk T15 have a few things in common, so we will begin here.
Micca MB42X vs Polk T15 – Similarities
Quick Glance
Let’s quickly recap the features of the Micca MB42X and the Polk T15 with a side-by-side view.
The Design
While the Micca MB42X and the Polk T15 look different, they are incredibly similar in design. These bookshelf speakers come in a pair. The cabinets are made of wood and they are both vented/ported for the perfect bass sound. You will need an amplifier for whichever set you choose.
The Grille
The grille of the Micca MB42X and the Polk T15 can be removed. This isn’t just a bonus for the visual aspect but also for the sound.
The Tweeter
Generally speaking, smaller tweeters allow for a wider dispersion of sound with the higher frequencies. Tweeters can range from 0.75 inches to 1.5 inches. The Micca MB42X and the Polk T15 have 0.75-inch tweeters.
Binding Posts
Quality binding posts are essential for the transfer of sound information and power. The Micca MB42X and the Polk T15 have 5-way binding posts for optimal connectivity.
Maximum Power
Speakers that can handle a good amount of wattage are going to be able to handle more volume before distortion. The Micca MB42X are advertised at 75W each and the Polk T15 is advertised at 150W, we assume that is combined rather than each.
There are still a few features that are quite different, so we will focus on these now.
Differences Between Micca MB42X and Polk T15
Appearance
Both of the speaker sets look great, they are black with the company logos on the front of the grille. There is a just little difference in the size.
Micca MB42X
Each speaker measures 9.5 x 5.8 x 6.5 inches. It weighs 8 pounds.
Polk T15
It is slightly larger at 10.7 x 6.5 x 7.3 inches and also weighs a little more at 8.25 pounds. On the back of the speaker, there is a keyhole slot so that you can mount them on walls.
The Winner Is- A Tie
Drivers
The driver, in many people’s opinion, will determine the quality of the bass response.
Micca MB42X
There is a 4-inch carbon fiber cone driver with a rubber surround for enhanced transients.
Polk T15
The driver is larger at 5.25 inches. It comes with Polk’s Dynamic Balance technology which not only improves the bass response but also opens up the mid-range.
The Winner Is- The Polk T15
Read next – Sony XB7 vs Sony XB60: Which Home Audio System is Better?
Crossover
The crossover is a component of the speaker that converts sound information into frequencies.
Micca MB42X
Micca has improved the crossover with this model. It has a highly optimized 18dB/Octave crossover. The 9 elements provide open, balanced, and dynamic sounds.
Polk T15
Here you have a 2-way crossover.
The Winner Is- The Micca MB42X
Frequency Range
The average human ear has a frequency range of 20Hz to 20KHz— until we start getting older! There is only a slight difference in the frequency range for these bookshelf speakers.
Micca MB42X
The frequency range is from 60Hz to 20KHz.
Polk T15
You get just a little more of a range from 60Hz to 24KHz.
The Winner Is- The Polk T15.
Value for Money
This will very much depend on special offers you might be able to receive on the speakers and the prices have been known to vary quite a bit.
Micca MB42X
Generally speaking, these are the more expensive speakers but rarely more than $10-$30 more. Unfortunately, there is no information on a warranty.
Polk T15
As well as potentially being able to save yourself a little money, you get a 5-year warranty on parts and labor.
The Winner Is- The Polk T15
Read next – Polk S10 vs S15: What are the Differences Between These 2 Speakers?
Pros and Cons
It’s a close call so the following pros and cons of the Micca MB42X and the Polk T15 will help complete the picture.
Micca MB42X
Pros:
- Really smooth highs and mids
- A very popular choice for PCs
- The crossover makes a huge difference
Cons:
- Not the best construction build
Polk T15
Pros:
- Great clarity
- Excellent bass response
- Amazing value for money
Cons:
- Perhaps a little too sharp for some
The Final Verdict
We were very impressed with the Micca MB42X. The style was nice, they were easy to set up and those high frequencies were exceptionally clear. We felt that Micca had managed to include just the right amount of technology and still keep the price very reasonable.
The winner, however, is the Polk T15. While the Micca MB42X had great high and mid-range sounds, we noticed that the Polk T15 did a better job at producing excellent sounds across the full range. The other thing that helped our decision was the quality of the build, they felt more solid. We also liked the fact that you could wall-mount them, giving you more options within the setup. Finally, although the price didn’t factor in our choice, it was a great little bonus.