Introduction
The Polk Audio SurroundBar IHT 3000 is an entry-level single-speaker SurroundBar designed for flat panel TV owners seeking a simple home theater solution without clutter. It offers real home theater performance in a compact system, ideal for any room where space is limited or as a secondary home theater setup.
Image: The Polk Audio Surroundbar IHT 3000 system, featuring the soundbar and its accompanying wireless subwoofer.
Key Features
- Complete home theater experience from a single speaker and an unobtrusive wireless subwoofer, eliminating the need for rear speakers and extra wires.
- Stereo Dimensional Array (SDA), a patented Polk Audio exclusive, provides digital surround sound without clutter.
- Lightweight and easy-to-mount single speaker with multiple mounting options.
- Compact wireless subwoofer can be placed anywhere in the room.
- Connects via optical digital or analog audio inputs (optical cable included).
Image: The Polk Audio Surroundbar IHT 3000 system, showcasing the soundbar, wireless subwoofer, power cables, and optical audio cable.
Setup Guide
The SurroundBar 3000 IHT is designed for quick and easy setup, connecting to your TV in under 5 minutes. It works with your existing remote control and comes with all necessary wires.
- Connect the SurroundBar 3000 to your TV: Use the supplied optical cable to connect the SurroundBar to your television's optical audio output.
- Connect SurroundBar power: Connect the SurroundBar 3000 power supply to the SurroundBar and plug the other end into an AC outlet.
- Connect Subwoofer power: Plug the subwoofer power cord into the back of the wireless subwoofer outlet and into an AC outlet.
- Set Channel ID: Ensure both the SurroundBar and the subwoofer Channel ID switches are set to the same number.
- Power On: Turn on the power switches on both the SurroundBar 3000 and the wireless subwoofer.
Image: Rear panel of the Surroundbar, illustrating the power input, optical digital input, and analog audio inputs.
Image: Rear panel of the wireless subwoofer, showing the power input, power switch, and Channel ID selector.
Operating Instructions
Remote Control Programming
The SurroundBar 3000 IHT can be programmed to respond to your existing TV remote control. This allows you to control basic functions like volume up, volume down, mute, and power using the remote you are already familiar with. Refer to the detailed instructions provided in the product packaging for the specific steps to program your remote.
Manual Controls
The soundbar features integrated controls on its top panel for basic operations. These include buttons for learning remote commands, source selection, power on/off, and mute, along with volume up and down controls.
Image: Close-up view of the top panel of the Surroundbar, showing the "LEARN", "SOURCE", power, and volume control buttons.
Polk Digital Logic and SDA Technology
Polk Digital Logic
Polk Digital Logic, a combination of Polk's patented SDA technology and proprietary DSP programming, enables the IHT's significant sonic performance without complex setup or calibration. This technology ensures stunning surround sound effects independent of room boundaries, providing consistent performance across various environments. It also helps maintain a solid center channel for clear, intelligible dialogue, delivering dramatic imaging and a three-dimensional sound envelope.
SDA (Stereo Dimensional Array) Surround Sound Technology
SDA is a patented Polk Audio exclusive technology. In a multi-channel recording, sound intended for your left ear typically comes only from the left speaker. However, with a conventional sound system, sound from the left speaker can also be heard by your right ear. The dedicated SDA driver produces a specific SDA signal to control the amount and type of sound heard by the "further" ear. By precisely controlling this signal, SDA Surround Technology steers and projects the sound image into the room, creating the experience of sound effects and instruments coming from all around you, even without physical speakers beside or behind you.
Specifications
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Subwoofer | |
| Woofer | 6-1/2-inch wireless; downward firing vented enclosure with long-throw dynamic balance poly composite driver |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 10 x 10-1/4 x 10-3/4 inches |
| Warranty (Electronics) | 1 year |
| SurroundBar | |
| Midrange Drivers | 2x 6-inch full-range drivers |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 31 x 3-3/4 x 3 inches |
| Mounting Options | Built-in wall mount keyhole slots and bump-on pads |
| Warranty (Speakers) | 3 years |
| General System | |
| Total Power Output | 180 watts (100 watts SurroundBar, 80 watts Subwoofer) |
| Connectivity | Optical digital, Analog audio inputs |
| Color | Black |
| Item Weight | 15 Pounds |
| Model Number | AM1300-A|4 |
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Polk Audio Surroundbar IHT 3000, please review the following common troubleshooting steps:
- No Power: Ensure both the soundbar and the wireless subwoofer are properly plugged into active AC outlets and their power switches are turned on.
- No Sound:
- Verify that the optical or analog audio cable is securely connected between the TV and the soundbar.
- Check the source selection on the soundbar to ensure it matches the input being used (e.g., optical).
- Confirm that the TV's audio output is set to external speakers or PCM for optical output.
- Increase the volume on both the soundbar and the TV. Ensure neither is muted.
- Subwoofer Not Working:
- Ensure the subwoofer is powered on and its power indicator light is active.
- Verify that the Channel ID switch on both the soundbar and the subwoofer are set to the same number.
- If experiencing intermittent sound or popping, try changing the Channel ID to a different number.
- Remote Control Issues: If the programmed remote is not working, try reprogramming it following the instructions in the Operating section. Ensure there are no obstructions between the remote and the soundbar's IR receiver.
Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Polk Audio Surroundbar IHT 3000, follow these maintenance guidelines:
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the surfaces of the soundbar and subwoofer. Avoid using liquid cleaners, aerosols, or abrasive solvents, as they may damage the finish.
- Placement: Place the system in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and excessive moisture. Ensure adequate space around the units for proper airflow.
- Storage: If storing the system for an extended period, disconnect it from power and store it in a cool, dry place, preferably in its original packaging to protect it from dust and physical damage.
Warranty Information
The Polk Audio Surroundbar IHT 3000 comes with a limited warranty. Specific warranty periods are as follows:
- Subwoofer Electronics: 1 year limited warranty.
- Speakers (Soundbar): 3 years limited warranty.
For detailed terms and conditions of the limited warranty, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Polk Audio website.
Customer Support
For further assistance, technical support, or to register your product, please visit the official Polk Audio website:
You may also find helpful resources, FAQs, and contact information on their support pages.
