I had Polk's S-15 for my mains some years ago, for my small HT room. My distance from the 55" TV and front speakers are 6 feet or so. Today, I use those S-15's as my side surrounds. My room size is 8 X 10. These speakers get good praise. I imagine the ES series has good marks. You will always have to use a subwoofer for base, with the 15 or 20's for full effect of movies. And those Polk's have good clarity and could be a bit "Shouty," with some music. I am into Movies and 10% music. Good luck and have fun!