Polk Audio RT2000i Speakers w/Powered Bass

Description

The Polk Audio RT2000i is a high-performance floorstanding loudspeaker from the company’s RTi series, designed to deliver full-range sound for both stereo music systems and home-theater setups. Introduced in the late 1990s, the RT2000i quickly became one of Polk’s most recognizable tower speakers thanks to its integrated powered subwoofer design, strong bass output, and room-filling presentation.

Unlike conventional passive tower speakers, the RT2000i incorporates built-in amplification for its low-frequency drivers, effectively combining a full-range tower speaker with an integrated powered subwoofer system. Each cabinet contains two 8-inch bass drivers powered by a dedicated 200-watt amplifier, allowing the speaker to reproduce deep bass without requiring a separate external subwoofer.

This hybrid design was intended to simplify home-theater installations while maintaining the powerful low-frequency performance typically associated with dedicated subwoofers. The bass drivers operate through Polk’s Power Port technology, a carefully tuned downward-firing port that reduces turbulence and distortion while extending bass response deeper into the low-frequency range.

Above the powered bass section, the RT2000i functions as a traditional three-way speaker system. A 6.5-inch Dynamic Balance mid-bass driver handles midrange and upper-bass frequencies, while a 1-inch Tri-Laminate dome tweeter reproduces high frequencies with clarity and detail. Polk’s Dynamic Balance technology was designed to reduce resonance and distortion by optimizing the driver materials and geometry, resulting in smoother frequency response and improved accuracy.

Physically, the RT2000i is a tall tower speaker standing nearly 46 inches high, giving it the internal volume required for powerful bass reproduction. Despite its substantial output capability, the speaker maintains a relatively narrow footprint, occupying less than one square foot of floor space.

The speaker’s cabinet design includes heavy internal bracing, magnetically shielded drivers, and gold-plated five-way binding posts. Magnetic shielding was particularly important at the time of its release, allowing the speakers to be placed near CRT televisions without causing picture distortion—an essential feature for home-theater systems of the era.

One of the defining characteristics of the RT2000i is its wide dynamic range and strong low-frequency authority. The powered bass system allows the speaker to reach frequencies as low as 20 Hz, delivering deep and impactful bass suitable for movie soundtracks and music alike. Because the bass section is self-powered, the main amplifier driving the speaker only needs to power the midrange and treble drivers, making the RT2000i compatible with a wide range of receivers and amplifiers.

For many enthusiasts in the late 1990s and early 2000s, the RT2000i represented an attractive solution for building a full-range stereo or home-theater system without requiring additional subwoofers. Even decades later, these speakers remain popular in vintage audio systems due to their robust construction, powerful bass response, and classic Polk Audio sound signature.

Review Quotes

“Excellent two-channel and home-theater speakers with powered subwoofers.”

“Ground-shaking bass from built-in twin powered 8-inch subwoofers.”

“Excellent construction, transducer selection, and value.”

These comments reflect the RT2000i’s reputation for strong bass performance, solid build quality, and versatility across music and movie playback.

Product Specifications

General

• Manufacturer: Polk Audio

• Model: RT2000i

• Type: Powered floorstanding loudspeaker

• System design: 3-way tower with integrated powered subwoofer

Driver Configuration

• 2 × 8-inch Dynamic Balance bass drivers (powered)

• 1 × 6.5-inch Dynamic Balance mid/bass driver

• 1 × 1-inch Tri-Laminate dome tweeter

Amplification

• Built-in subwoofer amplifier: 200 watts

Performance

• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 26 kHz

• −3 dB limits: 32 Hz – 25 kHz

• Sensitivity: 90 dB (1 W / 1 m)

• Nominal impedance: compatible with 8-ohm outputs

Recommended Amplifier Power

• 20 – 300 watts per channel

Connections and Features

• High-level speaker inputs

• Low-level RCA inputs for powered subwoofer

• Gold-plated five-way binding posts

• Magnetic shielding for TV placement

Physical Specifications

• Dimensions: 45.5 in H × 9.5 in W × 16 in D

• Base dimensions: 10.6 in W × 16.6 in D

• Weight: ~87 lb (39.5 kg) each