Having spent decades in this hobby, I have to say Sean's advice is spot on. It's good counsel where you win, manufacturer's win, retailers win-all while you gain knowledge so you spend time learning. I can't emphasize buying used if you want to try a lot of gear at the same time. If you're buying gear that are market price stable, you basically only "pay" the price of shipping + transaction costs. That tends to be a low tuition for learning and forming your own opinion. Awesome video, Sean! 🍻
My experience has been that once the research has been done and a product has been settled on, the final factor is synergy. I have purchased perfectly respectable components which have not played optimally with each other. Some speakers just like a certain type of amplifier. some amplifiers work better with a specific pre-amp. etc... In the end, it has always come down to trial and error, or just plain luck. This is why a return policy is helpful or purchasing at a price point where I can recoup a fair amount of my investment.
For me, ZF nails it! Sure there are other reviewers who are very good at what they do and I respect their opinions also. Being an audiophile since the late 70`s I have learned so much in the last two years watching ZF`s videos. I find his videos the most informative of all, and that's what these videos are all about.
Man you really inspire me how you just thoroughly make you points! I have gained a lot of knowledge over the last year watching your videos.one day I would like to tell you my journey.
I take zero fidelity and audiophiliacs opinion when I buy.examples of products I bought and love due to these channels: Double Impacts, outlaw RR 2160, Maggie LRS, zu DW, Freya.
Thanks, Sean - lots of good advice there. My advice for someone new to the hobby who wants to get a lot of experience fast is to track down vintage bargains, then mix n' match them. It's a great way to discover the various tonal qualities for yourself and, once you've learned what they can teach you, you can usually resell vintage components for close to what you paid.
Damn Sean! Might be your best video yet! In so far as how many folks you just helped out in a way that not many do. My props and respect, your integrity and personal experience is rarely matched on UTube. My esteem for you just went up several notches and it was already pretty damn high.
Sage advice. Many thanks for the post. I will add another option for those that live in remote parts of country where there is no local dealer to audition equipment. For me it is an 12 hour drive to one. Take an "Audio Vacation". This is where I will take a long weekend and drive to the big city and spend a Saturday morning visiting the Hi-Fi shops or take an prearranged factory tour. For me, it is a fun way to get know a product before making a purchase.
For those like me, who live in a more remote locale with no quality brick & mortar resource, I found this to be well rounded advice with insightful reminders. As recommended below on the thread on an audio vacation, I will definitely be looking into a few places for at least one or 2 days when I am in a major city again for a whole week. Hoping to find a good spot in Los Angeles to check out some new KEF metas after watching vids be Sean and 3 other reputable reviewers.
Hearing in your own room is the ONLY way to truly assess gear.... especially speakers. I drove crosstown 3 times over a year to to hear Legacy Focus SE's at the Legacy dealer. I was really in love with these $9000 speakers, and finally purchased a pair. It turned out, I just could not live with them. They just didn't work for ME in MY room. This is no slight to these great speakers, which, in the sweep spot, at times, gave me the best sound I'd ever heard, bar none. But overall, they didn't work for me. I did have to pay a restock fee, as these speakers are built-to-order. I fully knew this going in, and I was OK with it. I lost money, but the dealer was great to work with, even though it did not work out for me... this time.
This was one the most useful and informative videos about audio equipment I' ve seen to date Kudo's, sir. Might add one thought for older people; it may be useful to have your hearing tested to see what the limits of your hearing is. And also, I wonder if all that gear that was purchased in 2020 will find its way to the used market eventually...
One of the better videos in a while. You’re tapping into the vibe that brought a lot of us to the channel in the first place. And hey, it’s not quite zero anymore with that camera work and lighting! Haha!
Great video Sean. Some really good information that I wish had appeared about 6 months ago before I started buying too many sets of low cost speakers. Good news is at the lower cost I can't loose as much.
Thanks for making this video. I’ve been going through the new-to-audiophile journey over the past several months on my own and this summed up much of what I learned, while also providing a few new tidbits. It’s hard to know which “talking heads” to trust when you’re new to it all. I really appreciate your balanced approach and advice. This video bumped up my overall trust and appreciation for you channel. Again, thank you!
Great job Sean . Keep Audio fun but its even funner with Family !!! And their is a such thing as the best and thats the best you have in your home ! Rock that shizzz out !
I totally agree that measurements should be descriptive rather than prescriptive - they should help you understand why you like a thing, rather than tell you what you should like. I also think long term user reviews are superior to all others in *one* respect, which is getting a sense of reliability and user experience. With the amount of product professional reviewers churn through in the course of their work, they're not in the best position to tell you how something holds up after a couple years of daily use unless the product just so happens to be a personal favourite of theirs. For example, a headphone with great soundstage isn't going to have any soundstage at all if a driver fails after 6 months due to poor qc.
Hi Sean! Some great advice in this video. This really would benefit people just getting into the hobby, or just thinking about it. This video is a valuable tool.
A comment about Elac Debut 2.0 b6.2 speakers - I have owned a pair of these speakers for awhile now (time flies) - and recently had a revelation about just how good they can sound. I changed something in the system upstream from the speakers and it made an enormous difference in how well the speakers performed. I had previously thought that bits were bits were bits traveling from my PC (with FLAC files) through a DAC to the amp - but NO, not true. I changed the software on the PC to Audirvana and there was a night and day improved sound over the previous software that I was using. Those speakers are great.
I’m not being critical in any way right now. I’m just saying how blessed I must be. I’ve ALWAYS been able to listen to music for hours no matter what is reproducing it. I’ve never gotten tired or fatigued, I’ve just enjoyed the music all the more as the gear gets better. Heck, I’ve listened to music on a B&W T7 for hours and been happy because I get to listen. Would this be my first or even fifth choice? No, but I need music and that’s what it’s all about for me. I enjoy the videos.
Always solid advises. I think "patience" is part of the hobby itself and not only imposed by the Covid situation. I also enjoy watching your beauties, that Luxman and the Accuphase ; is mum or dad you love the most? Greetings from Asturias
Thanks for this video Sean. The point about the first hand experience is absolutely right. I just have one with you in a good way. As I commented in your video about the Wharfedale Evo 4.2, I like the sound of the Evo 4.2 as you described. My audio buddy think that he like that type of sound too. We went to a local dealer for an audition. Their setup contained Primare I35 intergrated Amplifier & CD35, a high end class D amp & high end streaming CD player. The sound of the system is good, EVO 4.2 sounds liked you said. But the midrange sound like it's stuck inside the speakers, there are a veil in front of the speakers. That was the reason why both of us did not purchase the EVO 4.2.
Sean I really love your video. You have provided me with valuable information for when I will start my purchasing. Yes it's stressful and you want to do the best purchase because it's a lot of money. Keep up the good work.
Actually just ordered a pair of A500 from Buchardt based on reviews from Zero fidelity and Johnny Darko. I wonder how the A500 will do against the Hegel H160 with let's say Bowers and Wilkins 702 or a pair of Dali Rubicons. I'm in the fortunate position I have a few high-end audio resellers nearby so I can check them before I buy. It's going to be an exciting month!
Excellent advice, as always. Too many reviewers out here would have you chasing your own tail in constantly upgrading/sidegrading (!) or hawking the latest tweak/model to put that desire earwig in your head. It’s so bad that sometimes people see a rave review and order immediately, then see another review for another piece that touts its superiority to what’s been ordered, and are dissatisfied with their purchase even before they’ve gotten it.
I bought a Denon Dnp 800ne for $ 375 a week ago. New in our store for $ 630. Very happy with my purchase 😊 With my r2750db+t5 this player sounds greate 👍
Very good advice. every step is useful. the one that I resonate with the most--find consistency in several reviews, not just one. I do think that specs are important, if serves as the first line of assessment to help us assess the compatibility between amps and speakers. Thanks Sean, you've been helpful for many people's hi fi growth, I'm one great benefactor. Hope your next review will be out soon.
That Mr Zero Fidelity was a fantastic review on a number of levels, especially towads the end. I am well and truely happy with the sound of my setup from my bedroom (ATC SCM19sv2, Roksan Caspian M2 Power Amp, Cambridge CXN V2 & MJ Acoustic Ref 200 Subwoofer) that my pursuit for better sound is a pointless task, Note to myself "just listen to music boy and chill the F**k out"
Great advice Sean. Folks need to know "it's a journey" to obtain the "best" system for them. Part of the process is gaining experience so you can find out what is the most enjoyable system "to you". This takes time and listening to a wide variety of gear. Think of it like becoming a connoisseur of wine. Even if you could afford the finest wines available, unless you had previously tasted many, many other lesser wines, you wouldn't be able to fully appreciate it. I think that is definitely true with audio gear too. At least it has been for me. And Sean's most important point is dead on the money, "Have fun!" That's what this is all about. Great video Sean! 👍
Nice coherent presentation as always . Most would agree we are in this for the sound , determine what your particular sonic flavor is and research gear that reviewers describe that way . I personally like gear that are sweet , fluid yet dynamic and detailed so that pushes me toward low watt Pass gear and even more so Luxman. As per Nelson Pass test numbers are a starting point but not the end game because he has various amps that do not test well but sound very good.
Here in the UK, we wait for the end of production on whatever we're after. 50% off RRP. The best tip of all. You get a full Warranty, and you get all of your money back when / if, you sell after a couple of years.
Bought a Muzishare X7 in based on your review. Rolled the tubes using with Klipsch RP-600Ms (great match because the tubes smooth out the horns) I told my wife how much the X7 cost and she called me a liar to my face. Said it sounded too good for that price. I showed her the Amazon account and she called it a "bargain" I have never heard that from her when it comes to hi fi equipment.
I always advice newbies to get the amplifier out of the decision making process, and get a pair of active studio monitors. Let the engineers worry about crossovers, phase alignment, etc. They would have tested the heck out of the in-built amps and their compatibility with the speakers. Even for a decent DAC, look at audio interfaces (some even come with great headphone outs) instead of paying fancy audiophile prices. Ex - get a pair of Kali LP6s ($300) and a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 ($170, or if you have an extra $50, a Motu M2 with it's lovely HP amp). I'd be hard pressed to put together a dac/amp/hp amp/speaker combo that sounds as good for under $500. I use a pair of Hedd Type 20s with an Adi2Pro for my main setup. Sounds fantastic.
You definitely need a good relationship to take higher priced products home to audition. At the moment I am auditioning EAR 88PB tube phono stage. Great advice! Cheers
Sean, thank you for the great advice! I would like to also add that if a person lives in an area where there may be a local "audio society/club", it might also be a good way to make some new audio buddies in your area and get to listen to a variety of audio gear at the society meet-ups. Plenty of guys who are willing to show off their audio rigs and make trades too.
The hi-fi market has changed drastically over the past few years, today many product offer surprisingly high quality at a surprisingly low price. I'm looking at Pioneer DJ VM-80 speakers, they are two-way boxes with an 8" woofer and a built-in D class amp, for a little over 500 bucks. I don't have enough experience to judge if they are good enough so I wish someone like you would review these up-and-coming budget products and tell people like me if they qualify as real hi-fi sound ?
Good video Sean! - So after much trial and error I finally arrived at a system that really excites me. Marantz SR-7012 with Elac UF5 towers... All tied together with Dirac Live room correction... I get excited (goosebumps) every time I listen too it. I am happy and fully satisfied even 2 years later! - Evident by the fact that I finally stopped obsessing on what to buy and wondering if there is something better. I really can just sit back and enjoy the system I created now without thinking, wondering and wishing. Never thought I'd arrive here. But I did and it's wonderful.
Researching and buying gear can be a true journey of self discovery. If you do it right, you will find out what YOU like. YOUR preference is all that matters. When you find that, you can be true and honest to yourself. Nothing else matters. Opinions are like a-holes, everyone's got one. For me, I like sound comparison demos, listening with my own ears. Frequency response diagrams can help to "see" what I'm hearing and what I like. Also, very important, audition system with music you are familiar with! If I demo a system playing orchestral music when my style is death core and speed metal, it doesn't match! How do I know that the mid-range of the trombone translates into well sounding electric guitars downtuned to C#? It does not compute. So, stay true to yourself and enjoy the journey!
I went to Audio excellence trying to do just this. I planned on buying an amp. They just shoo'd me away and were complete assholes. Some dealers just don't provide the luxuries you mentioned.
This is very true. Just as there are examples of excellent dealers who take their role seriously, you will also have poor experiences and / or dealers that want to take the easy route to earn their (usually significant) margin. I have no experience with that particular retailer so I cant comment on them in particular. Try someone else.
What are your thoughts on vintage 70's receivers? The reason I’m asking is because I recently bought a Pioneer SX 780 off of eBay for $500 that still had the original box. I looked over the photos many times, talked with a buddy of mine who builds speakers, and did some other research before purchasing. Although I didn’t buy this as an investment. I’m just curious as to how it’ll sound and I want an analog radio receiver as opposed to digital..Anyways it appears that these 70's receivers have been increasing in value from what prices were only last year. Thanks to you, Steve Gutenberg, and a buddy of mine I’m having a lot of fun with this new hobby. At the moment I have two systems mixing the old with the new, and am about to add a third system. All without breaking my budget and being patient getting one thing at a time. This is one of the best things I ever did for myself aside from quitting drinking for eight years. I think researching gear to be the most fun.
Interesting point that hifi prices will go up if people abuse trial/return policies. Most definitely a possible outcome. Another drawback, appealing just on the more egotistic/short-term spectrum of unintended consequences people want to avoid, is that if you feel like you are ready and willing to try pieces until you find the "perfect" piece, then you never will. A) There is no such thing as the perfect piece of gear, not for a million dollars, let alone for the kinds of prices most "real" people are willing to spend. B) By the time you've cycled through so many pieces, and especially combinations of pieces (different components at different points in the signal chain in the search of perfect harmony) you'll never have known what piece was giving you what thing, and then your short-term memory will take its toll, and you'll forget what you listened to 10 pieces of gear ago, and then you will definitely end up with the wrong piece. What I'm saying is, people need to learn to settle for something that is just good. And by just good, I mean, we live in a world where we are fortunate enough to have many amazing options! Be grateful for and trust in the fact that, in most cases, if you are able to pick a few pieces you think you'll like, in all likelihood you'll end up with a system you'll love. You are not, in fact, constantly comparing components, let alone entire systems, the way a dealer or professional reviewer does. And in all cases, what those people are trying to recommend to you are various pieces that are all worthy of recommendation - so pick a thing that functions, looks, and sounds more or less like it will make you happy, and be happy with it!
2020 gave me the best audio finds ever... on the used market. I got some incredible deals during CV19 that likely won't repeat until the next recession. Hard pass on ebay and audiogon the prices and sellers aren't reasonable. I go US Audio mart + Headfi + my local classifieds (non CL).
i love vintage equipment, i mean, i really LOVE vintage.... but please guys don't forget to put in service your finds remember: it's like to purchase a classic sports car, sometimes you can find them cheap but the service might be expensive even more expensive than new gear, but it really, really necessary if you want a good listening experience
I am not an Audiophile I am an Audiotechphile. The difference is that Im interested not only in great sounding equipment but I am slanted toward audio equipment in a small packages with monster killer sound. The engineering technology that produces big sound from a smaller footprint is like audio gold.
I haven't heard anything yet that's a decent item for the money that means I goal. We've learned that personal prospective is rarely attainable when it comes to audio components. The only thing I can say is enjoy the journey.
Thanks for the video! I especially liked the used section. I want to get a used integrated amp, but I am a little hesitant to dip my toe in the water. Any little bit of advice helps. Thanks Sean.
You have to make up your own mind as to what equipment sounds good to you, not necessarily what a reviewer says. Ever seen a bad gear review? Me either, but I've heard several components that I didn't care for, even though they were touted highly online.
I've seen quite a few bad reviews, with over half of them being due to the fault of the reviewer versus the product. The bottom line is that it doesn't really matter whether the review is a negative or a rave. As said in this video, the best thing to do is tune out somebodies emotional reaction to a product and focus strictly on whats said about the performance of the product. Look for consistency, and then your expectations should be a bit more grounded.
@@dam.ian. it’s a FB Group specifically for posting for sale ads related to audio gear. Just search FB groups with the word audiophile ... there’s a few groups related to discussions as well.
Amen on the measurements run down - it’s my experience precisely, and why I don’t like speakers that measure “perfectly” - They’re for the most part not enjoyable to listen to!
I think you may have mentioned it in one of your videos already, but between the luxman and accuphase integrateds that you have on hand, which do you prefer and why? @Zero Fidelity
I've been waiting on RMAF for listening to some $5k-ish floor standing speakers and some headphones while I'm there. Having adjusted to LS-50's, I think I'd probably be ok with KEF R11, but there are others I should probably listen to in that price range (Revel F208, etc). Nice tips!
Have fun at RMAF. Just.. try not to take what you experience at the show too seriously. Its a great place to socialize and to be with other audio nerds. Its an AWFUL place to seriously audition well... much of anything.
@@ZeroFidelity Luckily it's sorta within driving distance for me for a long weekend. I was hoping to get a chance to figure out which headphones I hate for my music tastes (in the $1-2.5k price range). I think figuring out stuff you like is probably a bit harder. It probably took me a year to warm up to the LS-50s (some experimentation with placement and more furniture in the room helped a ton), but I think a lot of it was my brain adjusting. I was assuming that I'd need to bring some music on CD that I've listened to quite a bit, as metal isn't exactly mainstream audiophile music (ha).
Having spent decades in this hobby, I have to say Sean's advice is spot on. It's good counsel where you win, manufacturer's win, retailers win-all while you gain knowledge so you spend time learning. I can't emphasize buying used if you want to try a lot of gear at the same time. If you're buying gear that are market price stable, you basically only "pay" the price of shipping + transaction costs. That tends to be a low tuition for learning and forming your own opinion. Awesome video, Sean! 🍻
My experience has been that once the research has been done and a product has been settled on, the final factor is synergy.
I have purchased perfectly respectable components which have not played optimally with each other. Some speakers just like a certain type of amplifier. some amplifiers work better with a specific pre-amp. etc... In the end, it has always come down to trial and error, or just plain luck. This is why a return policy is helpful or purchasing at a price point where I can recoup a fair amount of my investment.
For me, ZF nails it! Sure there are other reviewers who are very good at what they do and I respect their opinions also. Being an audiophile since the late 70`s I have learned so much in the last two years watching ZF`s videos. I find his videos the most informative of all, and that's what these videos are all about.
Man you really inspire me how you just thoroughly make you points! I have gained a lot of knowledge over the last year watching your videos.one day I would like to tell you my journey.
Thanks Tony! Hopefully our paths will cross!
A video from Sean, always a nice way to start a Sunday!
I take zero fidelity and audiophiliacs opinion when I buy.examples of products I bought and love due to these channels: Double Impacts, outlaw RR 2160, Maggie LRS, zu DW, Freya.
+1 for the Outlaw RR 2160 mkii ! Love mine!
Thanks, Sean - lots of good advice there. My advice for someone new to the hobby who wants to get a lot of experience fast is to track down vintage bargains, then mix n' match them. It's a great way to discover the various tonal qualities for yourself and, once you've learned what they can teach you, you can usually resell vintage components for close to what you paid.
Damn Sean! Might be your best video yet! In so far as how many folks you just helped out in a way that not many do. My props and respect, your integrity and personal experience is rarely matched on UTube. My esteem for you just went up several notches and it was already pretty damn high.
Sage advice. Many thanks for the post. I will add another option for those that live in remote parts of country where there is no local dealer to audition equipment. For me it is an 12 hour drive to one. Take an "Audio Vacation". This is where I will take a long weekend and drive to the big city and spend a Saturday morning visiting the Hi-Fi shops or take an prearranged factory tour. For me, it is a fun way to get know a product before making a purchase.
A wonderful suggestion!
For those like me, who live in a more remote locale with no quality brick & mortar resource, I found this to be well rounded advice with insightful reminders. As recommended below on the thread on an audio vacation, I will definitely be looking into a few places for at least one or 2 days when I am in a major city again for a whole week. Hoping to find a good spot in Los Angeles to check out some new KEF metas after watching vids be Sean and 3 other reputable reviewers.
Hearing in your own room is the ONLY way to truly assess gear.... especially speakers. I drove crosstown 3 times over a year to to hear Legacy Focus SE's at the Legacy dealer. I was really in love with these $9000 speakers, and finally purchased a pair. It turned out, I just could not live with them. They just didn't work for ME in MY room. This is no slight to these great speakers, which, in the sweep spot, at times, gave me the best sound I'd ever heard, bar none. But overall, they didn't work for me. I did have to pay a restock fee, as these speakers are built-to-order. I fully knew this going in, and I was OK with it. I lost money, but the dealer was great to work with, even though it did not work out for me... this time.
This was one the most useful and informative videos about audio equipment I' ve seen to date Kudo's, sir. Might add one thought for older people; it may be useful to have your hearing tested to see what the limits of your hearing is. And also, I wonder if all that gear that was purchased in 2020 will find its way to the used market eventually...
Great video Sean, and thank you for reminding me: "Patience, above all else"
One of the better videos in a while. You’re tapping into the vibe that brought a lot of us to the channel in the first place. And hey, it’s not quite zero anymore with that camera work and lighting! Haha!
Great video Sean. Some really good information that I wish had appeared about 6 months ago before I started buying too many sets of low cost speakers. Good news is at the lower cost I can't loose as much.
This is exactly why this is my go to channel.
Thanks for making this video. I’ve been going through the new-to-audiophile journey over the past several months on my own and this summed up much of what I learned, while also providing a few new tidbits. It’s hard to know which “talking heads” to trust when you’re new to it all. I really appreciate your balanced approach and advice. This video bumped up my overall trust and appreciation for you channel. Again, thank you!
Great job Sean .
Keep Audio fun but its even funner with Family !!! And their is a such thing as the best and thats the best you have in your home ! Rock that shizzz out !
I totally agree that measurements should be descriptive rather than prescriptive - they should help you understand why you like a thing, rather than tell you what you should like.
I also think long term user reviews are superior to all others in *one* respect, which is getting a sense of reliability and user experience. With the amount of product professional reviewers churn through in the course of their work, they're not in the best position to tell you how something holds up after a couple years of daily use unless the product just so happens to be a personal favourite of theirs. For example, a headphone with great soundstage isn't going to have any soundstage at all if a driver fails after 6 months due to poor qc.
Hi Sean! Some great advice in this video. This really would benefit people just getting into the hobby, or just thinking about it. This video is a valuable tool.
Well done again Sean, if beginners followed this advice it could spare them a lot of heart (and wallet) ache.
A comment about Elac Debut 2.0 b6.2 speakers - I have owned a pair of these speakers for awhile now (time flies) - and recently had a revelation about just how good they can sound. I changed something in the system upstream from the speakers and it made an enormous difference in how well the speakers performed. I had previously thought that bits were bits were bits traveling from my PC (with FLAC files) through a DAC to the amp - but NO, not true. I changed the software on the PC to Audirvana and there was a night and day improved sound over the previous software that I was using. Those speakers are great.
I’m not being critical in any way right now. I’m just saying how blessed I must be. I’ve ALWAYS been able to listen to music for hours no matter what is reproducing it. I’ve never gotten tired or fatigued, I’ve just enjoyed the music all the more as the gear gets better. Heck, I’ve listened to music on a B&W T7 for hours and been happy because I get to listen. Would this be my first or even fifth choice? No, but I need music and that’s what it’s all about for me. I enjoy the videos.
Yup. Supply chain disruptions are a real thing. Certain water heaters were unavailable for weeks.
Always solid advises. I think "patience" is part of the hobby itself and not only imposed by the Covid situation.
I also enjoy watching your beauties, that Luxman and the Accuphase ; is mum or dad you love the most?
Greetings from Asturias
Thanks for this video Sean. The point about the first hand experience is absolutely right. I just have one with you in a good way.
As I commented in your video about the Wharfedale Evo 4.2, I like the sound of the Evo 4.2 as you described. My audio buddy think that he like that type of sound too. We went to a local dealer for an audition. Their setup contained Primare I35 intergrated Amplifier & CD35, a high end class D amp & high end streaming CD player. The sound of the system is good, EVO 4.2 sounds liked you said. But the midrange sound like it's stuck inside the speakers, there are a veil in front of the speakers. That was the reason why both of us did not purchase the EVO 4.2.
Sean I really love your video. You have provided me with valuable information for when I will start my purchasing. Yes it's stressful and you want to do the best purchase because it's a lot of money. Keep up the good work.
Watch Sean's rave reviews, followed by Thomas' stories next. It's a done deal. Just needed these two.
Everything I've researched and bought, I've loved. Not everything was perfect, but I thoroughly enjoyed the music I listened to with my gear.
Actually just ordered a pair of A500 from Buchardt based on reviews from Zero fidelity and Johnny Darko. I wonder how the A500 will do against the Hegel H160 with let's say Bowers and Wilkins 702 or a pair of Dali Rubicons. I'm in the fortunate position I have a few high-end audio resellers nearby so I can check them before I buy. It's going to be an exciting month!
Hegel h160 is a stellar integrated amp.
Excellent advice, as always. Too many reviewers out here would have you chasing your own tail in constantly upgrading/sidegrading (!) or hawking the latest tweak/model to put that desire earwig in your head. It’s so bad that sometimes people see a rave review and order immediately, then see another review for another piece that touts its superiority to what’s been ordered, and are dissatisfied with their purchase even before they’ve gotten it.
Good points, but you forgot about room treatment (at least for beginners). In "bad" room even good system will sound not very well.
Nice one Sean, especially the last bit as a conclusion. As far as reviewers of choice goes, I'll follow that good ear of yours.
New to your channel, appreciate the forward and focused pace. Nicely done.
I bought a Denon Dnp 800ne for $ 375 a week ago. New in our store for $ 630. Very happy with my purchase 😊
With my r2750db+t5 this player sounds greate 👍
Very good advice. every step is useful. the one that I resonate with the most--find consistency in several reviews, not just one. I do think that specs are important, if serves as the first line of assessment to help us assess the compatibility between amps and speakers. Thanks Sean, you've been helpful for many people's hi fi growth, I'm one great benefactor. Hope your next review will be out soon.
Thanks for the info and guidance...many here will be grateful for your expertise.
That Mr Zero Fidelity was a fantastic review on a number of levels, especially towads the end. I am well and truely happy with the sound of my setup from my bedroom (ATC SCM19sv2, Roksan Caspian M2 Power Amp, Cambridge CXN V2 & MJ Acoustic Ref 200 Subwoofer) that my pursuit for better sound is a pointless task, Note to myself "just listen to music boy and chill the F**k out"
Usually I'm critical of you but that was a good presentation in my opinion.
Great advice Sean. Folks need to know "it's a journey" to obtain the "best" system for them. Part of the process is gaining experience so you can find out what is the most enjoyable system "to you". This takes time and listening to a wide variety of gear. Think of it like becoming a connoisseur of wine. Even if you could afford the finest wines available, unless you had previously tasted many, many other lesser wines, you wouldn't be able to fully appreciate it. I think that is definitely true with audio gear too. At least it has been for me. And Sean's most important point is dead on the money, "Have fun!" That's what this is all about. Great video Sean! 👍
Nice coherent presentation as always . Most would agree we are in this for the sound , determine what your particular sonic flavor is and research gear that reviewers describe that way . I personally like gear that are sweet , fluid yet dynamic and detailed so that pushes me toward low watt Pass gear and even more so Luxman. As per Nelson Pass test numbers are a starting point but not the end game because he has various amps that do not test well but sound very good.
Here in the UK, we wait for the end of production on whatever we're after. 50% off RRP. The best tip of all. You get a full Warranty, and you get all of your money back when / if, you sell after a couple of years.
doesn't work in US, try to buy Yamaha A-S series for 50% off
Bought a Muzishare X7 in based on your review. Rolled the tubes using with Klipsch RP-600Ms (great match because the tubes smooth out the horns) I told my wife how much the X7 cost and she called me a liar to my face. Said it sounded too good for that price. I showed her the Amazon account and she called it a "bargain" I have never heard that from her when it comes to hi fi equipment.
Two thumbs up mate...great video.
I always advice newbies to get the amplifier out of the decision making process, and get a pair of active studio monitors. Let the engineers worry about crossovers, phase alignment, etc. They would have tested the heck out of the in-built amps and their compatibility with the speakers. Even for a decent DAC, look at audio interfaces (some even come with great headphone outs) instead of paying fancy audiophile prices. Ex - get a pair of Kali LP6s ($300) and a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 ($170, or if you have an extra $50, a Motu M2 with it's lovely HP amp). I'd be hard pressed to put together a dac/amp/hp amp/speaker combo that sounds as good for under $500.
I use a pair of Hedd Type 20s with an Adi2Pro for my main setup. Sounds fantastic.
Just BUY ALL OF IT! BUY EVERYTHING!!
You definitely need a good relationship to take higher priced products home to audition. At the moment I am auditioning EAR 88PB tube phono stage. Great advice! Cheers
Hi Sean educational as always keep it coming your the best or is there no best 😂👍🇸🇪
the first minute perfectly summarizes the current situation
Well thought out progression. Solid delivery. People get ready, there's a train Georgia.
Excellent video. You are a reviewer that can be trusted. 👍
wow how in the world did you know about "Blocket"?! :P Cool, nice video aswell but I fell backwards out of my chair when you mentioned Blocket.
Audio is the only thing that gets me to go way over budget. I have a problem. Great video, you really nailed some great points.
Sean, thank you for the great advice! I would like to also add that if a person lives in an area where there may be a local "audio society/club", it might also be a good way to make some new audio buddies in your area and get to listen to a variety of audio gear at the society meet-ups. Plenty of guys who are willing to show off their audio rigs and make trades too.
Hey Leroy. Yep, that's a very great point!
On point! Now I just have to send a link of this video to people asking me about getting into audio gear. Great service!
Awesome video Sean. You are spot-on.
I have an audio gear that's currently delayed and stuck in LA customs clearance blackhole. Expect lots of delays with imported gear!
Haha in the same scenario.
It is always a pleasure to listen to you"r autintic reviews
Great informative video as always!
What great advice Sean right on man thanks.
The hi-fi market has changed drastically over the past few years, today many product offer surprisingly high quality at a surprisingly low price. I'm looking at Pioneer DJ VM-80 speakers, they are two-way boxes with an 8" woofer and a built-in D class amp, for a little over 500 bucks. I don't have enough experience to judge if they are good enough so I wish someone like you would review these up-and-coming budget products and tell people like me if they qualify as real hi-fi sound ?
Thanks once again Sean.......Words of wisdom.
Based on your review of the Cambridge AXR 100 I purchased one to pair with Polk Signature55. I'm a happy camper. Thanks
Yes...SET A BUDGET!...next...BLOW THAT BUDGET UP!!!! 😂😂😂
Then get another budget
Hey Sean Great advice even for the experienced buyer take care
I’ve just ordered an amp based on your review.
Didn't get a notification of this video. Have to comment to help with RUclips algorithm.
Good video Sean! - So after much trial and error I finally arrived at a system that really excites me. Marantz SR-7012 with Elac UF5 towers... All tied together with Dirac Live room correction... I get excited (goosebumps) every time I listen too it. I am happy and fully satisfied even 2 years later! - Evident by the fact that I finally stopped obsessing on what to buy and wondering if there is something better. I really can just sit back and enjoy the system I created now without thinking, wondering and wishing. Never thought I'd arrive here. But I did and it's wonderful.
Congrats!
THIS. This is a great take. Rings true on almost every account.
Researching and buying gear can be a true journey of self discovery. If you do it right, you will find out what YOU like. YOUR preference is all that matters. When you find that, you can be true and honest to yourself. Nothing else matters. Opinions are like a-holes, everyone's got one. For me, I like sound comparison demos, listening with my own ears. Frequency response diagrams can help to "see" what I'm hearing and what I like. Also, very important, audition system with music you are familiar with! If I demo a system playing orchestral music when my style is death core and speed metal, it doesn't match! How do I know that the mid-range of the trombone translates into well sounding electric guitars downtuned to C#? It does not compute. So, stay true to yourself and enjoy the journey!
I went to Audio excellence trying to do just this. I planned on buying an amp. They just shoo'd me away and were complete assholes.
Some dealers just don't provide the luxuries you mentioned.
That's for sure, unless you have plenty $$$!
This is very true. Just as there are examples of excellent dealers who take their role seriously, you will also have poor experiences and / or dealers that want to take the easy route to earn their (usually significant) margin. I have no experience with that particular retailer so I cant comment on them in particular. Try someone else.
You're the man, Sean!
Thanks. Very Good tips!
The ONE thing you need to know is that "Soundbar" is their trigger word.
What are your thoughts on vintage 70's receivers? The reason I’m asking is because I recently bought a Pioneer SX 780 off of eBay for $500 that still had the original box. I looked over the photos many times, talked with a buddy of mine who builds speakers, and did some other research before purchasing.
Although I didn’t buy this as an investment. I’m just curious as to how it’ll sound and I want an analog radio receiver as opposed to digital..Anyways it appears that these 70's receivers have been increasing in value from what prices were only last year.
Thanks to you, Steve Gutenberg, and a buddy of mine I’m having a lot of fun with this new hobby. At the moment I have two systems mixing the old with the new, and am about to add a third system. All without breaking my budget and being patient getting one thing at a time.
This is one of the best things I ever did for myself aside from quitting drinking for eight years.
I think researching gear to be the most fun.
Interesting point that hifi prices will go up if people abuse trial/return policies. Most definitely a possible outcome. Another drawback, appealing just on the more egotistic/short-term spectrum of unintended consequences people want to avoid, is that if you feel like you are ready and willing to try pieces until you find the "perfect" piece, then you never will. A) There is no such thing as the perfect piece of gear, not for a million dollars, let alone for the kinds of prices most "real" people are willing to spend. B) By the time you've cycled through so many pieces, and especially combinations of pieces (different components at different points in the signal chain in the search of perfect harmony) you'll never have known what piece was giving you what thing, and then your short-term memory will take its toll, and you'll forget what you listened to 10 pieces of gear ago, and then you will definitely end up with the wrong piece. What I'm saying is, people need to learn to settle for something that is just good. And by just good, I mean, we live in a world where we are fortunate enough to have many amazing options! Be grateful for and trust in the fact that, in most cases, if you are able to pick a few pieces you think you'll like, in all likelihood you'll end up with a system you'll love. You are not, in fact, constantly comparing components, let alone entire systems, the way a dealer or professional reviewer does. And in all cases, what those people are trying to recommend to you are various pieces that are all worthy of recommendation - so pick a thing that functions, looks, and sounds more or less like it will make you happy, and be happy with it!
2020 gave me the best audio finds ever... on the used market. I got some incredible deals during CV19 that likely won't repeat until the next recession. Hard pass on ebay and audiogon the prices and sellers aren't reasonable. I go US Audio mart + Headfi + my local classifieds (non CL).
Sean uses MIT MITerminator cables We are all waiting for that speaker cable review.
MIT CVT's! No review coming I'm afraid. They're cables. They get the job done. End review! :D.
i love vintage equipment, i mean, i really LOVE vintage.... but please guys don't forget to put in service your finds remember: it's like to purchase a classic sports car, sometimes you can find them cheap but the service might be expensive even more expensive than new gear, but it really, really necessary if you want a good listening experience
Be patient. Let thing sift themselves through. You'll be fine.
Thanks for the good advice!!
Hmmm… good points. Ill take a step back and skip the upgrade this year.
I am not an Audiophile I am an Audiotechphile. The difference is that Im interested not only in great sounding equipment but I am slanted toward audio equipment in a small packages with monster killer sound. The engineering technology that produces big sound from a smaller footprint is like audio gold.
I haven't heard anything yet that's a decent item for the money that means I goal. We've learned that personal prospective is rarely attainable when it comes to audio components. The only thing I can say is enjoy the journey.
Big thanks, Sean.
17mins of wisdom. Not just applicable to hifi.
Thanks for the video! I especially liked the used section. I want to get a used integrated amp, but I am a little hesitant to dip my toe in the water. Any little bit of advice helps. Thanks Sean.
A serviced Sansui is always a winner!
You have to make up your own mind as to what equipment sounds good to you, not necessarily what a reviewer says. Ever seen a bad gear review? Me either, but I've heard several components that I didn't care for, even though they were touted highly online.
I've seen quite a few bad reviews, with over half of them being due to the fault of the reviewer versus the product. The bottom line is that it doesn't really matter whether the review is a negative or a rave. As said in this video, the best thing to do is tune out somebodies emotional reaction to a product and focus strictly on whats said about the performance of the product. Look for consistency, and then your expectations should be a bit more grounded.
Buying used is great. I got 50% off on a like -new Peachtree Nova 300 from an audiophile marketplace on Facebook. Can’t beat a deal like that.
what is audiophile marketplace? , I see only FB Market
@@dam.ian. it’s a FB Group specifically for posting for sale ads related to audio gear. Just search FB groups with the word audiophile ... there’s a few groups related to discussions as well.
Amen on the measurements run down - it’s my experience precisely, and why I don’t like speakers that measure “perfectly” -
They’re for the most part not enjoyable to listen to!
Wise words👍
Sean,
Ever review Philharmonic BMR's? Would love to hear your thoughts on these. Affordable and great sound??
I live in Northern Sweden so I have 670 km to my HiFi-shop. 1340 km if I want to get home also.
I think you may have mentioned it in one of your videos already, but between the luxman and accuphase integrateds that you have on hand, which do you prefer and why? @Zero Fidelity
Sean, is it a Plinius Hautonga on your background. Are you going to do a review on that? Thank you,
Set a budget, extend budget, extend budget, etc, etc...
I see a Luxman and a Plinius in the background. My two favorite brands!
I've been waiting on RMAF for listening to some $5k-ish floor standing speakers and some headphones while I'm there. Having adjusted to LS-50's, I think I'd probably be ok with KEF R11, but there are others I should probably listen to in that price range (Revel F208, etc). Nice tips!
Have fun at RMAF. Just.. try not to take what you experience at the show too seriously. Its a great place to socialize and to be with other audio nerds. Its an AWFUL place to seriously audition well... much of anything.
@@ZeroFidelity Luckily it's sorta within driving distance for me for a long weekend. I was hoping to get a chance to figure out which headphones I hate for my music tastes (in the $1-2.5k price range). I think figuring out stuff you like is probably a bit harder. It probably took me a year to warm up to the LS-50s (some experimentation with placement and more furniture in the room helped a ton), but I think a lot of it was my brain adjusting. I was assuming that I'd need to bring some music on CD that I've listened to quite a bit, as metal isn't exactly mainstream audiophile music (ha).
Nailed it!
Great advice! Thank you!