(NEW) Polk Signature Elite ES15 Bookshelf Speaker (Pair)

We ordered the Polk Audio ES-20 bookshelf speakers on sale in Dec 2024. Recieved the speakers a few days later. On initial inspecion the box had a hole and a crunched corner that gave us some concern. Also, the box wrapping tape was loose. On further inspection, it appeared that this could have been a pre-opened product. The package did not seem to be packed as new speakers typically are. The speakers themselves looked very good, with no appearent damage. The speakers appeared to be very well built and looked nice. I hooked the speakers up to a new cambridge amp and a new external DAC (digital audio converter). The speakers sounded really good in the low and middle frequencies. However, in the upper vocal frequency range, the speakers had a very harsh buzz and distortion. ( I should mention ), that we like to listen at lower and mild volume levels. I tried the speakers with a different DAC, same results. Tried the speakers with a different AV reciever, same results. I should also mention that we have a pair of Polk T-100 speakers, Polk patio-200 speakers and Polk TL-1 speakers, that all sound fine. I then hooked up the Polk T-100 speakers, with no sound issues. I really wanted to like ES-20 speakers. So I called Polk Customer Service / Tech Support twice. Both times, I was connected to a Polk call center and it was obvious both times, that the Polk Call Center Representitive had no technical knowledge of the Polk speaker line or any troubleshooting knowledge. So, I started a return request, repacked the speakers and delivered them to the local UPS drop off store. The speakers then wondered around in UPS transit ( limbo land ) for over two weeks. The speakers did eventually find their way to their destination and Amazon refunded the full purchase price with no issue. We did consider ordering the Polk ES-55 floor mount speakers. However, after after my experience with the Polk Customer Service we decided to research other speaker brands. I hope this review helps with any decision thinking.