Out of all reviewers of speakers on the internet, you are probably my most favorite. I really like how you describe things, don't sound snobby (like a few audiophiles do), and even though you have so much experience you don't speak as if your opinion is absolute. Great great youtuber! Thank you for all the reviews that you do.
Another great review Thomas. I must say, those S400 are a great looking speaker. Some people might refer to them as horn loaded, but it is a simple wave guide on the tweeter. Compared those to a true horn loaded speaker, like the high end ones you listen to or say Altec Lansing A7, Klipsch Lascala, etc, now you're in a true horn loaded realm, with very different dynamics. What I like about your approach is that you listen to high end audio and work your way back down to what you are reviewing. This is great way for anyone to get a good sense of what to listen for in something they might buy, that is something which is within their budget but much less expensive than a 100K system. It's like if you play tennis recreationally, you probably wouldn't get any better playing against a pro player, but if they taught you how to play, you can learn a lot for them about technique so you can get better at your game.
Hey Taz, Great to hear from you. I am so lucky to have the opportunity to have access to high end gear but by no means am I an expert. I am fortunate to have many audiophile friends who are very good at listening and by them sharing with me their views, I am able to make a video like this. Thanks for dropping by.
I really learn a lot from your off-topic, sidebar comments and the amount of comparisons that you do. I appreciate that you don’t overhype products, but rather talk about gear in a greater context. So glad I found your channel!!
agreed, it's like his inputs are another dimension that impossible to find on other reviewers, that's why he said go watch their review before this video.
Love this channel. You’re not ashamed of being a real audiophile, in fact you embrace it. That’s what makes this channel special and different. Much of what we go through can only be understood by one of our own.
Another Fantastic review Thomas!. I found it really interesting to hear your take (and your friend's take) on these speakers. Though it was great how you not only partnered them with a bunch of different amps but also took the time to take them to different rooms. I too am looking forward to the video of your finished listening room!
I’m really glad you decided to do this video differently from a review. As someone in the market for a new pair of speakers I found your framing very helpful!
Great review. Love how you describe and relate your thoughts on speakers and components to others. Makes it easier for us to understand without actually being able to listen to them in person.
I regret not buying these. I live in India and the import duty would have been around 700 dollars, but buchardt are offering free shipping+import duty all around the world. That is really awesome and finally a high end speaker manufacturer that takes customers out side US and Canada seriously. Huge shout out to buchardt for doing this.
Great thoughts on the s400, I like the examples you give, easy to understand and objective. Also, you give the perspective of other friends that listened in their own environments and most had treatment in their rooms, so that kind of feedback also goes a long way to validate the good reviews. Thanks for taking the time to get your thoughts on this, and other gear. Look forward to your room makeover, should be interesting.
Very good review! I also own the S400 since two month, and i love them. Never had better speakers in my life. Anyone who thinks about buying new speakers, test them , but remember , they need some time before they can really show you "their sound!"
I had a chance listen to these S-400. Good immediacy and neutral. Thinking of buying them on my next upgrade... Thanks Thomas for the vid and good luck to your sound room project.
I got a pair of these about 2 months ago - best pair of speakers I’ve had do far, which doesn’t cover a lot. I’ve had the Elac bookshelves, the KEF LS50’s, vintage Mirage and Boston Acoustics 3-way floor standers, and I like these the best. Compared to LS50, not as picky about toe-in, adequate and textured bass, wide soundstage, vocals that reach beyond the speakers. No fatigue as opposed to the KEFs.
Thomas, I really enjoy your videos because you are very honest, open minded and calm , I hope your room turns out well , don't rush it , take care , Arthur.
I continue to really enjoy your videos, you provide an amazing range of audio experience with a wonderfully familiar presentation. Great job, your sincerity comes through in spades.
I enjoyed your review. However, to me the most interesting feature is that the tweeter is only 3/4" diameter, as opposed to the usual 1" or larger in most dome tweeters, not that it has a "waveguide". All else being equal, the smaller diameter tweeter should make the diapraghm respond faster (less mass to move) and have lower distortion (less surface area to break up). Both are positive things, but come with tradeoffs, such as lower power handling and very wide dispersion (probably will bring too much of your room into play). This is why they brought in the waveguide, to help minimize the dispersion (easier to control with a horn or waveguide) and to increase the waveform coupling to the room (greater efficiency). I would like to hear this speaker. It is getting a lot of good reviews all over the net. Thanks again.
I usually don’t comment much on youtube videos, but I fully agree on your impressions. I also own the S400 and it is a great speaker. Very natural sound, large soundstage and precise imaging. What I also really like is their versatility. I used to have Focal speakers and when you listen to average and bad recorded stuff, the beryllium tweeters become unlistenable to me. With the S400, great recordings sound awesome, but bad recordings are still enjoyable. This is very important to me, because I don’t want to be limited by the quality of the recording. The main point of this hobby is to enjoy music after all. So to me, the S400 are a great step in my audio journey :) Btw. I cannot wait on your impressions, when your room is treated. I treated my room too and it is way better than before. Especially the bass and imaging profited greatly.
My room is 11ft by 20ft by 8 ft about. I have 2 system. First one is Modwright LS100 and Moon W5.3. The other one is belcanto pre6+ Bel Canto 1000s monoblocs. For sub, I have a martin logan dynamo and paradigm monitor sub 8. I don't usually use my sub unless I am using a bookshelf speaker.
Why is there no edge treatment (radius or bevel) for diffraction? Is it because it's a fairly narrow box, and the drivers pretty well take up the front baffle?
@@thunderpooch Well you mean like the KEF LS50 where it has round edge, well if you think about it, the KEF reference 5 that is one of their high end model also don't have round edges. I think this is a good question for speaker designer.
Dude i am not sure how many realize that you demo those at your friend house and give up the total impression is so much priceless information than any other reviewer is doing. Thank you for the hard work !
Really liked this video, feels like we were sitting in the room together talking about systems. Doesn't get much better than that. Can't wait to see your vid on the making of your listening room.
@@ThomasAndStereo You do a great job of hitting that mark. Your videos are always sincere and engaging. Keep up the great work. I thoroughly enjoy your efforts.
Oh yes a very nice video, a far cry from some quite stupid ones I've run into recently - but a few good ones also. :)1 Most importantly Thomas have gotten the most important thing right, that the listening space matters a lot.
I like the balance in your review. You raise some great points....many reviewers like to say “this is better than that” however you have defined what “better” actually means by explaining the different presentations...many speakers have strengths and weaknesses...it’s personal preference regards which strength is important to you. I used to think the more detail the better but on poor recordings highly detailed speakers can be almost unlistenable. The same with “impressive” speakers. On the 1st few listens you notice things never heard before however over extended listening speakers with too much treble and detail can become tiring. So you need find the perfect balance for the acoustics in your room.
@@scottlowell493 The crazy rich wouldn't spend anywhere near this amount of time analysing audio - they'd have a team from Linn or Naim in the UK flown in to do a custom install in whichever of their homes / planes / cars / boats they feel the need to play a tune in. 'You need to build a dedicated listening room, complete with dedicated AC ? No problem - just make it happen without upsetting our Afghan hounds'. What Thomas and his friends do is very much in the spirit of hot rodding - trying different combinations to find what works for them - and that has to beat coming home from Paris to be presented with an iPad and told that the rest of it is hidden away from those delicate souls who don't want to see anything other than expensive artwork between themselves and the walls of their home. There's an entire industry dedicated to making gear disappear, but I prefer Thomas' approach ;)
Arthur Watts I’ve seen vast amounts of crazy expensive gear badly set up. The rich can also be gullible and apathetic as long as it’s shiny and looks good.
Thomas, very well described and captures the essence, the horn speakers at all high tones have significantly more and better off axis range and greater linearity of about 10 khz further improving the perception of space, but sometimes it's too much. Horn speakers are also very popular in PA due to usability and high sensitivity.
That Thomas great review. Your eval and description of the S400 helped make up my mind. Getting the S400 and thinking of driving it with a Cambridge Audio CXA81. I hope that combo will work this will be the beginning of my first real system.
I have never heard the CXA81 so I don't know how it will mix with it. Remember you have a return trial period with the S400 , I think you need to pay a small fee should you decide to return it.
I have no idea about speakers and dont know how i stumbled upon this video.....but started listening the whole video. So Hey Thomas, you really can explain anything, infact your an excellent teacher from what I can infer. Now I want to look behind the curtain of the speaker world and enter the rabbit hole.
Nicely done. Your passion, your enthusiasm for audio comes through. You realise your fortunate to have a wife that let's you indulge in this hobby. Well, so long as the house payment is met and fridge filled. Curious, your friends with these 10k+ speakers, are they kicking themselves, shaking their heads thinking look at the money I've thrown away. Could have been happy with these. Chasing rainbows is expensive.
Thanks. My friends are very smart and humble so when they judge this speaker, they judge it based on price. These speakers and keep up with $10k speakers for certain things (width of soundstage for example) but not all things. So it's to be expected that there is a difference. My friend, when they build their highend system, they pushed those system to the max so they are on a different level overall.
Great video! A joy to watch. Great to see your friends mindblowing setups and their thoughts on the product. I don't know a lot about hi fi or which speakers to buy, but I just found your channel and I feel like your videos are helping bit by bit. So thanks! Useless backstory: I'm looking for new speakers for my PC, which is the center of my smaller living room. (there's a very crappy video of it on me channel, tank included) Currently got a Teufel concept e 400, a discontinued modest €350 5.1 speakerset with 0.7 liter sattelites and a 12" sub. I'm not unhappy with it but I know that music can sound better. I think it's time for real bookshelf speakers now! I'm even toying with the idea of putting floorspeakers next to my desk if the all the drivers are near the top. Bookshelf speakers are probably more practical though, but I'm still considering both. These S400 speakers do look interesting, would they still sound good if you put them very close to a wall? I'm guessing the bass might become overpowered? I'm looking for amazing speakers that I can place close to a wall, would these work? if anyone got any tips, feel free ;) either 2.0 or 2.1, mostly for listening to rock, metal, music. Also youtube, games, movies. A friend of mine has 2 genelec 8040 hooked up to his PC, and, well... would be nice if I could one up him, I suppose? ^^
Thanks! It depends where you are sitting. If you are sitting close to them listening while working on your computer, then a speaker that works well near field is what you need. The S400, other people said it does not work well near field due to it's wave guide. A floor standing would not work too. I personally don't ever test my speakers near field so i would not know how to recommend. What you can do is going forward, while looking at other people's video, pay attention to the part when they say how well it works nearfield.
@@ThomasAndStereo Thanks! I already heard the s300 are better with nearfield compared to s400. And it still sounds good right next to walls if you plug the bassport it looks like. (I think I got that from a zero fidelity video?). Maybe I should just go for a coaxial design like the LS50. I think I'll be pondering high(er) end audio a bit longer! Also considering zmf aeolus headphones atm ^^
Really great insights Thomas. Your reviews are so good you may be able to quit your day job !! I really trust your opinions. I am trying to decide between these, the Special 40's and maybe even the Elac Navis. This helped to clarify the difference between these and the Dynaudio's. Thanks.
Wait for my Special 40 review, its an AMAZING speaker. Even the special 40 owner in the video said the S400 is very different than his special 40 so I would say you are chosing between a corolla and a jeep if you are considering both. You need to narrow down what kind of sound you like. Sweet sound+refined highs? Dynaudio, High energy sound+ Kick ass bass? S400.
@@ThomasAndStereo I have Sonus Faber now. Very easy on the ears but the detail is lacking. Being a drummer I am more use to a close up sound I guess. I can hear like say the ride pattern on a cym but not the sick actually striking, that initial dynamic strike. So I have a musical speaker now, but as you, I can't tolerate a lot of high frequency, bright sound. So the s400 sounds good for the dynamics but the Special 40's for it's sweet highs. I always use subs so bass is not a concern. I am leaning to Dynaudio. Decisions, decisions.
Yes, the Special 40 is so good especially if you are using a sub. For me if can get a good deal on it, it's a very SOLID recommend. On top of the sweet high, very refine and detail. Since you are using a sub, even easier to recommend. Just that in Canada, they raised the price so much... in the states, I think its $3k US.
Superb Review...I really appreciate your reflections and analysis....Thank You!!! Just pulled the trigger on the S400's(Smoky Oak)...I have s300's....love them!!! Would love to see you do a Live Stream....Thank You Thomas!!! Look forward to Your Reviews!!!
Probably one the best "Opinion About Loudspeakers" type of videos on RUclips ! Because we are all much too subjective about speakers we own it is of utmost importance to hear what other people who come from different Hi-Fi provenance think about same pair of speakers ! And you gave us exactly that: your own fair and extensive description of burchardt S400 AND your friends opinions after their long listening session and comparison to their own speakers that are from a completely different end of sound spectrum ! Invaluable video, indeed !!! Terrific job, Thomas !!! P.S:.People from Focal / JM Lab origin always feel other speakers lack in highs ! Some of my friends felt that even for my long time gone B&W speakers with diamond tweeters ! P.P.S. Yes, I would like to be in your listening circle of friends, too !
@@ThomasAndStereo Yeah, I frowned a bit when you said that small Dynaudios have sweeter highs, but, based on your description and opinion I am sure Burchardt S400 are incredible bookshelf sized speaker. Thank you for your kind invitation, Thomas, but no, I am not from Montreal. I live in a small country in Europe.
Hey Thomas. Your approach is very interresting. I like your logic and your way of making things understandable. I hope to meet you one day and converse with you and your amazing experiences with what is out there. 😊
Not a review huh? In my estimation, this was your best review ever. You managed to really well put in to words the affect the speakers had on you and more importantly, the affect they had on your fellow audiophile buddies who, by now, all of we subscribers to your channel know very well. I'm blown away! Did you get a chance to audition them with a moderately powered tube amp (like my PrimaLuna Prologue 5!!!! LOL). I'd be interested to hear your impressions. Thank you Thomas. You ARE a true asset to audiophiledom!
Thanks! I got my hand on a Prima Luna dialogue one integrated amp and it's amazing. I need to make a video on it but it's not a review...will explain in the video.
@@ThomasAndStereo I can't wait, you've heard so many amps from your own pocket and through you're network of audio buddies that I'd like to hear what you think. I have the Prologue 5 and never heard better!
Thomas, you should do an overview video of the components of a high end audio system. When your new room is finished you could explain why you brought these components into the room. I assume many people are like me, building a system over time and not purchasing all components at one time. For example, many people start with an AV receiver. Later adding separate amplification. What is the next upgrade to make progressive steps to the final goal of quality audio? Most impactful to least. For example is it: DAC, Preamp, Media Player, Power Distribution, Wiring. This could be very helpful to those of us building our systems!
Oh yes, I was going to do that when I talk about my own reference system actually. I also have a home AV system and I was going to talk about it when I talk about my hometheater. One day, just need to find time. Thanks for the suggestion.
Waiting eagerly to see your finished music room, and some re-reviews of things that you did previously to understand any impact from the room treatment. All the best Thomas
Wow! Serious renovations there! Good Luck! Also I notice in the specs that the S400 is crossed over LOWER than the S300. 2000Hz vs 2600Hz. Am wondering if that's part of the magic as well. The reason I say this is that I'm more of a vintage guy, and I have observed that the vintage speakers that sound best to my ear are almost ALL crossed over at 2000hz or LESS! There almost seems to be something magical around there. Even better at 1500Hz or less! I know this is a fairly gross way of proceeding and there are many more factors than that, but that is ONE constant for good music listening, at least for me? The other interesting factor is this almost marriage between a horn-like wave guide and a soft dome tweeter.
That is interesting about the cross over. I enjoy vintage gear a lot and will be making more videos on vintage gear in the near future. Yes, it's not really a horn but does have some of the characteristics.
Imho you are better than z review. You can actually articulate sounds profiles . z is funny and very good as well. You are more accurate and precise imo. Thank you.
Great review Thomas ! I enjoy your natural approach that helps me understand from your extensive experience. According to Mads the producer these S400's would sound good with two subs.
www.buchardtaudio.com/ for more info. Please note Buchardt offer a 30 days free return so there is no risk to try but don't buy it just for fun. I did not do a full review guys are it would be too long if i did. So I focused more on me and my friend's experience instead. For a true full review, check out Sean at Zero Fidelity ruclips.net/video/gZJiEBtfah0/видео.html Also note that every other speaker I mentioned in this video is way more expensive than the S400. For example, the Focal Kanta is $12k, Quad 989 is $15k+, Special 40 is almost $5k with the taxes and so forth.
Hi Thomas, this is the first time I viewed your video and come across ‘categorising speakers’, which is interesting. Never thought of it. Learned something new from this video of yours. And I fully agree with you. Just like cars, they are categorised (SUV, sedan, high performance sports car etc) with each having their own forte. The final point here is we need to understand each of them and what suits us.
Hey Thomas. Please make a review of Focal Chorus 615, if you get a chance. As the cheapest floor-standers in Focal family, I think they can be interesting for a budget option. Thank you.
Great commentary Thomas! Very interesting, and very thought out. I really enjoy the presentation style that use to make your videos. I always look forward to new videos from you. Good luck on the construction of your music room! Look very much forward to seeing the end result.
Hey Thomas, great channel and great reviews. I am very fond of mini monitors and have a few myself, including the Amphion Argon, ProAc 1SC and PMC DB1. The Buchardt S400 caught my interest and might join my collection soon.
@@ThomasAndStereo It's been a while since I last heard them, but as far as I remember, they have nice and tight bass for their size, overall tone quality a bit coloured and they are more forgiving if compared to my ProAcs Response 1SC. Mine are the db1 and not the dbi. Looking forward to see your review on the db1 gold.
Hi Thomas, great video as always. I love how you categorize the speakers in a way that is really helpful where you address specific characteristics and not just rate the overall sound, or the bass, treble, like everyone else. Understanding the nature of the speaker, or the way it conveys its sound, should be the main focus of a review. Being a fan of natural sounding speakers, I have a growing interest in both this speaker and the Dynaudio Special Forty. As you mentioned that you have a friend who owns a pair of Dynaudios, could be more specific in the differences between the two? Or maybe even do a review of the Special Forty with emphasis on the comparison? Many thanks and best wishes for your channel.
Thanks. If you can afford the special 40, get it. Here in Canada, the price gap is REALLY big so there it is not a fair comparison. The special 40 is what I call the traditional sound with a bit of everything. Meaning that when you hear it, it will not surprise you as you have heard countless speakers out there and the Special 40 will sound familiar. It has the detail of metal based dome tweeter, it has the musicality of musical speakers. It has good separation and imaging, just so so bass. So it's an all well rounded speaker. Now, sure it's amazing but its also very expensive here in Canada. We are looking close to $5k with the taxes. It's what I call a very safe sound. The S400, assuming you have experience listening to many speakers will sound very different. This speaker is not about detail and separation, sure it is ok but it's true strength is energy and wide sound stage with great bass. However, if you don't like quick roll off (the special 40 does not) then it is a deal breaker. If you are ok with it, assuming you have heard high end harbeth before and you are looking to experience energy 'like' in a concert, then you choose the S400. That is why I create a category for itself. It took me sometime to understand it so don't under estimate the difference. I will one day do a video on the Special 40 but I have to be careful when comparing to other speakers because it's normal it does things better, it is way more expensive after all. If it did not, no one will buy it.
@@ThomasAndStereo Thanks a lot for your input. Will try and get the Special 40 and after, take advantage of the tryout period of the Buchardt to decide wich I prefer with my gear. Looking forward for more videos.
Thomas, I believe you need to try out some active speakers (the energy in the music). Apparently buchardt actives are amazing. I use ATC SCM100 actives and I really feel like staying with them forever. Another advantage, you're not bothered with picking power amp.
One of your best reviews! Very well done. You hit on a very important truth concerning speaker size and the room they are in. For me, I need to be able to get all I am looking for at relatively low volumes. As you discovered, your Canton's do not work too well util your crank them up a bit. I'm convinced that the way to go for most of us with budget and space limitations is quality bookshelves with a sub. I had a pair of Baby Advents hooked up with a sub and the sound was amazing. But, I am looking for incredible so I gave them to a friend of mine who needed something for a small bedroom. So, I do appreciate this review as I am back to shopping for bookshelves. By the way, I am also sold on passive radiators. I have an old pair of Polk Audio Monitor Plus 5 Jr.'s (more or less a large bookshelf speaker) and those things really get low. Very tight and defined. They have 8 inch passives and I believe they are rated down to 32 Hz. Again, thanks for this review, it was a big help.
Yes, I never mentioned about it in the video about the passive radiator but my friends who build speakers were impressed by it. The bass is well controlled because of it. Thanks for the feedback.
I am sold on them. I wonder why they aren't utilized more? I notice that Klipsch has a huge one on their Heresy III. I think I would prefer one to a port.
Hi Thomas. Thanks for the great review. These S400 are intriguing me, not only because of the positive reviews, but for the many comments about the different sound that they produce. Based on all reviews I watched, it seems that they are power hungry. Making a simple search in their website I found the impedance curve of the speakers, almost hidden in the bottom of the page. Interestingly it stays flat in about 4 ohms for most of the frequencies. Maybe this is one of the reasons that it doesn't play well with the Pathos TT, but was good with the Logos. Maybe it might not be suitable for tube amps.
It could be we were asking too much from that TT too. The place is really big and we were pushing the volume to fill the room. My other friend thought it was ok with his Sansui. I used it with the Prima Luna integrated amp, 35w I think, the top end sounded great but bass was meh. So I would say, you need a bit of power to bring out the best in them.
Thank you so much Thomas. Have really enjoyed watching hours and hours of your videos. Great review of S400 but still very confused as my knowledge is very limited. 1) Between S400 and A500 (from other channels), which one should I buy and what should be the criteria to decided one over the other. 2) If I decide to buy S400, what should I pair it up (integrated streamer amplifier). I was looking at NAD M10, Naim Uniti Atom and few others but not sure if any of them are good to pair with these to drive them appropriately. Most of my listening are very average and normal stuff (orchestra, strings - violin, jazz - vocals, classic English rock, world fusion - instrumental, others). I do not listen to heavy metal or hip hop genre). Any guidance would really help.
Thanks Tom for the quick reply Thomas I saw his review on them did he do a different one on set up ? I recently bought a Hint 6 but I also have an old AR VT200 in storage I can use the the pre outs of the Halo to the Audio Research do you think the S400s like tubes or solid state better. I noticed in your review you said they don't play nice with certain gear. Again excellent reviiew and thanks in advance for your opinion.
Hey Thomas, I liked your chart in terms of sound characteristics, but I have a challenge for you. Take a listen to some Pro Focals, particularly the SM9's. They have very powerful amps, and a number of equalization controls on the back that allow you to tame what you might call the "analytical" nature of those speakers. They have replaced my Von Schweikert VR-4 Silvers and Martin Logan Requests as my best source at home. I think they sound much better than the home versions of Focal's speakers.
Hi Thomas, You mentioned before that speakers are, for the most part, priced correctly. That said, a higher priced pair of speakers should outperform a lower priced pair of speakers. In the case of the Buchardt S400, since the company markets this product online and therefore, no markup from distribution/dealers, do you think the S400’s can compete with speakers priced above the $2k mark? Thanks and Merry Christmas.
Hello Thomas, I was really impressed with your video and I am now interested in buying the S400. I am also looking for a new integrated amp and I believe I have settled on the primaluna dialogue premium hp. Do you have access to one? What do you feel about how they would partner up. I have KEFS now and more interested in warmer and musical side of middle and less about the plus treble boost of the KEFS. Thank you in advance for your thoughts on the matter.
I tried it with the Prima Luna dialogue one ( the cheapest integrated) and the highs were nice but the bass was not as good as when I paired it with a powerful solid state. Now keep in mind the KEFs are very good in detail and instrument separation. If you put those as priority (It's hard to let go once you are used to it) and you want a closer sound but just need the extra bass, then the S300 would be a great LATERAL move. Now the S400 is more about energy and wide sound stage, perhaps a bit like at a concert type of feel. You lose detail and instrument separation relative to a KEF BUT you gain something different. The S400 is a sophisticated speaker but before you buy, go check out some klipsch just to see if horn type of speaker works for you. The S400 is not a horn but share some characteristics.
That cupped hands coloration is what is usually called thickness or warmth. I just swapped pads on my headphones and got just that effect. Music seems more pressurized and lively at first but I've never been able to tolerate this sound for long
Great video- I'm interested in the Dynaudio special 40 as well as this one. Which do you think is "better"? I'm especially interested in detail retrieval, dynamics and sound stage. Thanks!
I would say detail retrieval and instrument separation, the Special 40. Dynamics, both are good, Soundstage, the S400 is wider but not as precise. This is to be expected as the special 40 is way more expensive.
Hey Thomas- Early sub here. Once again, thanks for your impressions and nice review of the S400. Good luck with the new listening room-keep us posted! Interesting comment your friend made (he didn’t like the S400- wanted more detail/separation) w his Kanta’s vs the S400. Although, the Kanta’s are in a “different league”. I own a great pair of Focal bookshelves. My first bookshelf due to moving into a new home with a smaller 11’ x 11’ x 9’ dedicated listening room. It’s the Focal 807 V W Prestige. An upgraded 807 V Chorus. It has a 7” “W” cone mid-driver technology found in the high-end Focals. Tweet is the inverted Al/Mag alloy 1” TNV. The box is an oversized (larger) for a bookshelf- 22lb speaker, in piano black. Have you heard this speaker? I’m sure you’re familiar with the tweeter. I would call it extended but not necessarily “bright”. Curious how the S400 and 300’s would compare to my Focals. Any thoughts??? Keep up the great work, Thomas!!! Cheers from the States....CANADIAN’S ROCK!!!!!!!
Well I do want to clarify, its just not only against his Kanta but rather against 'metal' based dome tweeters. Even against the KEF LS50, you will feel the KEF more detail. You will still hear all the nuances with the S400 but not with the 'sparkle' that metal based dome tweeters are famous for, That is why I stress that part as for some people, it's a deal breaker, like my friend who owns the Kanta. I had the Focal 836v before so I know it's sound. Completely different sound compare to the S400,. The S300 is closer to your focal speaker sound. Less detail but better low end The S400 is in the 'musical' sound world so completely opposite of your focals. If you LOVE focal, you will have a hard time with musical speakers like sonus faber, higher end harbeth and so forth.
You are missing the forest for the trees. A simple(ideal) way to analyze a sound system is to compare a live symphony that you attend at a reference hall and what the same recording of the same piece of music sounds like on your stereo. Obviously, where you are sitting in the concert hall will affect your listening experience. I happen to live within 30 miles of two world class symphony hall. Each hall has its own sound character( one was built as an architectural wonder first, while the other was sound first). With a little bit of effort you can come very close to achieving that live performance in your own home for very little cash. A jazz performance in a small venue is also another reference to use in building your sound system. Find reference recordings that are out there to judge systems. Chasing equipment for different sounds with no reference for what is the correct sound is a fools errand. Classifying speakers based on tweeter material, because someone said it is so 25 years ago is not reasonable. Throw out your preconceived notions that you have been fed by the audio industry. A speaker in and of itself is not musical or analytical. It is a sound transducer that produces sound from electrical current. It is not magic. The end goal should be to have you system transport you to the exact time and place of the recording as if you are there for it. Once you reach this point, though, bad recordings on your system will be obvious.
35goaltender that’s how I got into good audio equipment. I went to performance of Beethoven’s 9th symphony and I really enjoyed it. When I got home I played it on what I thought was my really good hifi. It was awful! That’s when I decided that I wanted t get the best hifi that I could. I’ve not managed to replicate the sound of two large choirs in my home but I’ve come pretty close!
I was thinking that too. He didn't use audiophile terms, but likeness terms, which is what consumers will think when they are introducing themselves into hi end audio. Good job with how you do this video.
Hello Thomas. I noticed you kept your Totem Signature 1. I have the original Totem Model 1 and you were spot on about being a high maintenance girl friend that wants you to drop everything to listen to her. Once you do, she is a pleasure though. With that said, does that mean you will keep the S400 for the long term for variety's sake or send it back after a short fling?
Yeah, the signature one is so precise. The S400, I actually send it back after I reviewed it, I have too many speakers and I am actually more into floor standing speakers so I have let go all my bookshelf.
Thanks Andreas. Yup. got the bass traps and those make the biggest difference. yt3.ggpht.com/XVWAUnYSVboYuUOUc2lW_-f9wYV29LbF3L0WfENE65D9HCqIuIEeheDGx8yirlqA2NMV0plPEz9VtQ=s1600-nd
Thanks! I would say, go listen to a Klipsh at a bestbuy to get an idea if you like the 'horn' sound. It's not really a horn so also go audition the Sonus faber or Harbeth to get an idea how musical speaker sounds. I purposely repeated it as I wanted people to have a true understanding what they are getting. It's a sophisticated speaker and the best part is you have 30 day trial period so you can't go wrong. Just make sure you break it in too. I never did because I got mine from Sean and it's already broken in.
Hi Thomas, another good video! Im a bit puzzled when you talk about tweeter decay. I tried to get into an explanation so far I only found that that a wide dispersion tweeter might dissipate energy faster then narrow dispersion but its very room related. There is resonance in the tweeter but its extremely short and unwanted. Its not supposed to make a noticable difference in the time domain like you describe. Im tempted to say that its more a question of how revealing the tweeter is and not directly about its time decay. Id like if you could clarify a bit the question in your next video. Otherwise well keep doing those videos its very much appreciated!
Not sure what it is but I hear it in Sonus faber, Tekton double impact too. Think of a bell ringing, the kef would be let the bell ring until it stops by itself. While the other ones will be you stop that ringing with the help of your finger so it's shorter.
Hi Thomas a friend is seeking an " affordable " amp for the S400 ( Mads from Buchardt audio is coming out with a 250 watts per channel integrated amp plus Dac in a year or so designed specifically for the S400 ) Its too long to wait... you allude to the Prima Luna as an option. From Taiwan there is the Simon Audio Group all-in-one at 160 watts into 4 ohms. i'm guessing that would be sufficient power. I saw you had the Pathos Logos MK2 in testing the S400 is that your amp of choice in this case ?
Well, my favorite was Modwright LS100 + Moon W5.3 with the S400. The pathos and Prima Luna was ok but it's bass was so so. I personally like it way way more with the extra power.
I think your point on the size of the speaker in the room, and it's volume is very important, In my honest opinion, people often make the mistake of buying too big speakers for a certain size room, and it messes them up a lot of the time. Can't get the bass right, can't get proper image because of the size of the room blabbla
Love your video Thomas, very very informative. I want to build a stereo system (my first) but having no experience at all your video means a lot. I emailed buchardt-audio and Mads was saying my room might be too small (L13 x B7x H8 ft) and suggested ‘some room correction solution to get in control of the bass, tune down the room modes’ which I seriously have no idea how to do or what to do. Right now they are offering a €200 pre-order discount and I think it might be a good deal. I heard many great reviews of the S400 but I don’t have the time and knowledge to do up my room. What is your opinion, should I get the S400 or can you suggest some other speakers plus amps which is more suitable for a room of this size? I listen to all types of music/songs like Journey, Eagles, Norah Jones, Laura Fygi, 蔡琴 (Taiwanese singer). To all other viewers of Thomas and Stereo any suggestions are much appreciated :). I have a budget of US$8000 for the whole setup (I know it’s not a lot). Thanks and looking forward to your reply. Cliff
Hey Cliff, sorry I missed this comment. With $8k US, and you are buying used or new? You can do a lot and there are so many choices. Have to know what is your taste first, are you still looking or you have already bought?
Hi Thomas, No worries. I’m looking for a new setup and not sure what you mean by “taste”. I like to listen to something without having to bring the volume up too high and I like nice clear vocal (not sure if that is the way to explain it:). I’m thinking of getting a streamer where I can play Tidal or Spotify as well as getting a CD player for my CDs. Hope to add turntable in the future. Wonder if you can recommend a streamer, pre/power amp or integrated amp and speakers. Thanks for spending your time to look into my queries. Cliff
So, when I say taste, I guess what is your priority, some people absolutely want vocals to be the most important and don't care the rest. In that case, a harbeth 30.1 is a good starting point. Some want to have the most revealing speakers possible, then those people should look for KEF, Focal, and so forth. Some want bass to be the most important, some people want dynamics (those should look at horns). Some like to go for long listening session and would sacrifice detail for non fatiguing highs, those people would look for musical speakers like sonus faber for example. So in short, the choice of speaker is very very important and you have to know what kind of sound you like. As such, first homework is to go out and listen to a few speakers and then decide what you like. The frontend comes later. Don't assume you like anything until you try. Many people say I like musical speakers only to find out they sound like there is a veil infront of it compare to a revealing speaker.
@@clifftsl Yes, make sure you listen to the big brand to get a good frame of reference. Maybe metal based tweeters from focal are your cup of tea. Once you decide on which type, then you listen for imaging, instrument separation, soundstage. So go check out horn, ribbon (Monitor audio, high end Elac), electrostatic, metal and soft dome tweeters. If you don't have a lot of time, just focus on a few metal based (kef, focal, B&W) and a few soft dome. (Dynaudio)
The passive radiator would help the bass, cos that tech is great for reducing box size. And you have the same sort of depth per cubic inch as with bluetooth speakers, but scaled up enough to sound amazing.
Thomas, will you be reviewing the A500 Active Speakers any time soon? Zero Fidelity recently gave it a pretty high review and these speakers appear to be "revolutionary"
Excellent videos on both Buchardts. I’d be curious to know that if you had to choose between the s300 and s400 which you’d choose. And conversely which speaker you choose over either in the $2000 space.
If I can only keep one speaker, then S300. If I can keep multiple speaker, the S400. $2k space new? Hmm...I don't know since I never had many, if any, in that price range that i have tried. If $2k used, that is a different story.
...I have read as many Buch s'400 reviews as Y-tube provides-almost without exception-good reviews- I have had a set for about 6 months-they are better (quality/sound) than words can capture
Please do a comparison of a hybrid tube/solid state integrated vs. a solely tube integrated. I have seen you use a solid state integrated, but I usually see your McIntosh preamp/ amp setup in use. Great channel- easy to understand. Thanks.
Hi Thomas Like very much your reviews ! What on your opinion is the best set up for the S400 Speakers Valve or Solid State amps? Having in mind the CAYIN CS-55A, YAQIN MS-110B or Riga Brio amp . My room is not that big and I would like to use the headphone output.
For me, I need a setup that has power and it has to be smooth. I don't know those 2 amps but I remember it matched well with the Prima Luna entry level integrated amp. The bass could be better but the top end is great.
Hi Thomas, I liked your classification approach. First time I see something like that after years of audiophile videos and magazines. Where would you put the Monitor Audio you reviewed within that classification?
Can't wait to check these out, unfortunately they currently retail for nearly double the US price here in Europe, but I guess that will be compensated in the near future.
I'm very impressed with your videos on the Buchardt S400 & S300. I'd never heard of this brand before this. I currently own a pair of Sonus Faber Venere 2.0, not sure if you've tested them and am curious if it makes sense for me to buy either the S300 or 400 given that the Buchardts punch way above their price range. Thanks.
You have a very nice speaker already and for you to really upgrade, you got to move way beyond this price bracket. As good as these speakers are, they should not be way off compare to your speakers. They will sound different especially the S400 with the waveguide. If you had a cheap speaker, I would say it is an upgrade but you don't have a cheap speaker.
Thomas, I love your channel but how do you say that this is not going to be a review in the video and the title of the video says that it is review? I would change the title unless you don't care 😊. But I would have liked to have heard your review of the actual speakers. Always getting another opinion is good and you have a trustworthy way of communicating
Thomas, thank you once again for a concise, introspective, and comparative review on these S400s. ..Always educational! THEORY: im thinking these speakers MIGHT just need some extra help in anchoring them down to the stands, for best sound, perhaps.? Maybe some blu-tac putty underneath??.. or also some sand /lead short placed on top??? Z reviews (?) I believe stated that these speakers, when played loud, WALKED THE SPEAKERS ALMOST COMPLETELY OFF THE STANDS from vibrations!!! Im assuming the action of the woofer, in conjunction with the passive radiator in back (PLUS the relatively light weight property of the speakers), may just require some extra help in keeping things SOLID and DETAILED sounding!????.. Its a theory anyway. Maybe someone auditioning these could try addressing this, with weight on top, or whatever, , to see if micro dynamics, image solidity and detail improve..?
Yes, need good solid stand for it. Not really a problem for me in the sense that my stands are over 40LB so my speakers don't move even when play loud. Also the wood where the speaker is on also have spikes underneath. It's the nature of the speaker that it does not sound like other speakers.
Out of all reviewers of speakers on the internet, you are probably my most favorite. I really like how you describe things, don't sound snobby (like a few audiophiles do), and even though you have so much experience you don't speak as if your opinion is absolute. Great great youtuber! Thank you for all the reviews that you do.
Another great review Thomas. I must say, those S400 are a great looking speaker. Some people might refer to them as horn loaded, but it is a simple wave guide on the tweeter. Compared those to a true horn loaded speaker, like the high end ones you listen to or say Altec Lansing A7, Klipsch Lascala, etc, now you're in a true horn loaded realm, with very different dynamics. What I like about your approach is that you listen to high end audio and work your way back down to what you are reviewing. This is great way for anyone to get a good sense of what to listen for in something they might buy, that is something which is within their budget but much less expensive than a 100K system. It's like if you play tennis recreationally, you probably wouldn't get any better playing against a pro player, but if they taught you how to play, you can learn a lot for them about technique so you can get better at your game.
Hey Taz, Great to hear from you. I am so lucky to have the opportunity to have access to high end gear but by no means am I an expert. I am fortunate to have many audiophile friends who are very good at listening and by them sharing with me their views, I am able to make a video like this. Thanks for dropping by.
I really learn a lot from your off-topic, sidebar comments and the amount of comparisons that you do. I appreciate that you don’t overhype products, but rather talk about gear in a greater context. So glad I found your channel!!
Thanks Sarah, appreciate the comment.
Thomas this was one of the best speaker reviews I have ever watched , thank you so much for taking your time to post it. blessings charlie
Thanks Charlie, glad you enjoyed it.
agreed, it's like his inputs are another dimension that impossible to find on other reviewers, that's why he said go watch their review before this video.
Love this channel. You’re not ashamed of being a real audiophile, in fact you embrace it. That’s what makes this channel special and different. Much of what we go through can only be understood by one of our own.
Yup yup! I hear you :)
Another Fantastic review Thomas!. I found it really interesting to hear your take (and your friend's take) on these speakers. Though it was great how you not only partnered them with a bunch of different amps but also took the time to take them to different rooms. I too am looking forward to the video of your finished listening room!
I’m really glad you decided to do this video differently from a review. As someone in the market for a new pair of speakers I found your framing very helpful!
Thanks, most of my video is just like chatting with a friend.
Great review. Love how you describe and relate your thoughts on speakers and components to others. Makes it easier for us to understand without actually being able to listen to them in person.
Thanks, I wanted to make my video more as a friend chatting with you than an actual review.
I regret not buying these. I live in India and the import duty would have been around 700 dollars, but buchardt are offering free shipping+import duty all around the world. That is really awesome and finally a high end speaker manufacturer that takes customers out side US and Canada seriously. Huge shout out to buchardt for doing this.
Great thoughts on the s400, I like the examples you give, easy to understand and objective. Also, you give the perspective of other friends that listened in their own environments and most had treatment in their rooms, so that kind of feedback also goes a long way to validate the good reviews. Thanks for taking the time to get your thoughts on this, and other gear. Look forward to your room makeover, should be interesting.
Glad you enjoyed it. Takes lots of time to go around with it and really happy you appreciate it.
Very good review! I also own the S400 since two month, and i love them. Never had better speakers in my life. Anyone who thinks about buying new speakers, test them , but remember , they need some time before they can really show you "their sound!"
I had a chance listen to these S-400. Good immediacy and neutral. Thinking of buying them on my next upgrade... Thanks Thomas for the vid and good luck to your sound room project.
How much are they?
@2150
I really like your reviews, I don’t feel like I’m getting fooled, just a nice objective view!
I got a pair of these about 2 months ago - best pair of speakers I’ve had do far, which doesn’t cover a lot. I’ve had the Elac bookshelves, the KEF LS50’s, vintage Mirage and Boston Acoustics 3-way floor standers, and I like these the best. Compared to LS50, not as picky about toe-in, adequate and textured bass, wide soundstage, vocals that reach beyond the speakers. No fatigue as opposed to the KEFs.
Was looking forward to this review :) . Yours' and John Darko's reviews are the two audio reviews on youtube I look out for .
Thomas, I really enjoy your videos because you are very honest, open minded and calm , I hope your room turns out well , don't rush it , take care , Arthur.
I continue to really enjoy your videos, you provide an amazing range of audio experience with a wonderfully familiar presentation. Great job, your sincerity comes through in spades.
Thanks Shawn, appreciate the feedback.
Very informative, especially appreciate the feedback from your friends, really gives us a good sense of how it sounds.
I enjoyed your review. However, to me the most interesting feature is that the tweeter is only 3/4" diameter, as opposed to the usual 1" or larger in most dome tweeters, not that it has a "waveguide". All else being equal, the smaller diameter tweeter should make the diapraghm respond faster (less mass to move) and have lower distortion (less surface area to break up). Both are positive things, but come with tradeoffs, such as lower power handling and very wide dispersion (probably will bring too much of your room into play). This is why they brought in the waveguide, to help minimize the dispersion (easier to control with a horn or waveguide) and to increase the waveform coupling to the room (greater efficiency). I would like to hear this speaker. It is getting a lot of good reviews all over the net. Thanks again.
The company should offer you a 10% discount code to all your viewers.
That will defeat the point of a sincere review.
They do offer 400$ discount now, since it is sold out. A pre oder discount.
@@Tbonyandsteak From Denmark or local store?
@@michaelknight5607 No it was at their webpage.
@@michaelknight5607 No local stares sells these
I usually don’t comment much on youtube videos, but I fully agree on your impressions.
I also own the S400 and it is a great speaker.
Very natural sound, large soundstage and precise imaging.
What I also really like is their versatility. I used to have Focal speakers and when you listen to average and bad recorded stuff, the beryllium tweeters become unlistenable to me. With the S400, great recordings sound awesome, but bad recordings are still enjoyable. This is very important to me, because I don’t want to be limited by the quality of the recording. The main point of this hobby is to enjoy music after all.
So to me, the S400 are a great step in my audio journey :)
Btw. I cannot wait on your impressions, when your room is treated. I treated my room too and it is way better than before. Especially the bass and imaging profited greatly.
Thanks for leaving a comment. Yup, enjoy the music.
ow big is your room and what kind of amp are you running and also are you using a sub with this and if you do what kind
thank you
My room is 11ft by 20ft by 8 ft about. I have 2 system. First one is Modwright LS100 and Moon W5.3. The other one is belcanto pre6+ Bel Canto 1000s monoblocs. For sub, I have a martin logan dynamo and paradigm monitor sub 8. I don't usually use my sub unless I am using a bookshelf speaker.
Why is there no edge treatment (radius or bevel) for diffraction?
Is it because it's a fairly narrow box, and the drivers pretty well take up the front baffle?
@@thunderpooch Well you mean like the KEF LS50 where it has round edge, well if you think about it, the KEF reference 5 that is one of their high end model also don't have round edges. I think this is a good question for speaker designer.
Superb video. No exaggeration. I love your analogy and breakdown to explain. Your point! Please continue these great reviews....
Fantastic review Thomas, now I'm thinking about getting this S400 😊
Very detailed / circumspect explanation of what to expect from this speaker. Can't wait until mine arrive.
Thanks, let me know what you think,
Dude i am not sure how many realize that you demo those at your friend house and give up the total impression is so much priceless information than any other reviewer is doing. Thank you for the hard work !
Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks
Excellent narrative. Because of the similar reactions you received among your friends, I've placed S400's higher on my list. Thanks for this!
Love your review Thomas. You give your thoughts from all different directions.
Really liked this video, feels like we were sitting in the room together talking about systems. Doesn't get much better than that. Can't wait to see your vid on the making of your listening room.
Thanks, it's my intend to make a channel where it feels like a few friends hang out and chat.
@@ThomasAndStereo You do a great job of hitting that mark. Your videos are always sincere and engaging. Keep up the great work. I thoroughly enjoy your efforts.
Oh yes a very nice video, a far cry from some quite stupid ones I've run into recently - but a few good ones also. :)1
Most importantly Thomas have gotten the most important thing right, that the listening space matters a lot.
I like the balance in your review. You raise some great points....many reviewers like to say “this is better than that” however you have defined what “better” actually means by explaining the different presentations...many speakers have strengths and weaknesses...it’s personal preference regards which strength is important to you. I used to think the more detail the better but on poor recordings highly detailed speakers can be almost unlistenable. The same with “impressive” speakers. On the 1st few listens you notice things never heard before however over extended listening speakers with too much treble and detail can become tiring. So you need find the perfect balance for the acoustics in your room.
Yup I always say there is no best but the right speaker for you.
Very well done. More and more people are catching on to the qualities that a “good” horn speaker brings to your music.
I wish I were in your listening circle of friends!
There is a movie about that. "Crazy rich audiophiles".
@@scottlowell493 The crazy rich wouldn't spend anywhere near this amount of time analysing audio - they'd have a team from Linn or Naim in the UK flown in to do a custom install in whichever of their homes / planes / cars / boats they feel the need to play a tune in. 'You need to build a dedicated listening room, complete with dedicated AC ? No problem - just make it happen without upsetting our Afghan hounds'.
What Thomas and his friends do is very much in the spirit of hot rodding - trying different combinations to find what works for them - and that has to beat coming home from Paris to be presented with an iPad and told that the rest of it is hidden away from those delicate souls who don't want to see anything other than expensive artwork between themselves and the walls of their home. There's an entire industry dedicated to making gear disappear, but I prefer Thomas' approach ;)
Arthur Watts I’ve seen vast amounts of crazy expensive gear badly set up. The rich can also be gullible and apathetic as long as it’s shiny and looks good.
Thomas, very well described and captures the essence, the horn speakers at all high tones have significantly more and better off axis range and greater linearity of about 10 khz further improving the perception of space, but sometimes it's too much. Horn speakers are also very popular in PA due to usability and high sensitivity.
Thanks.Yes, one of the problem with horn I was told that it can be too dynamic, fortunately, these S400 are not.
That Thomas great review. Your eval and description of the S400 helped make up my mind. Getting the S400 and thinking of driving it with a Cambridge Audio CXA81. I hope that combo will work this will be the beginning of my first real system.
I have never heard the CXA81 so I don't know how it will mix with it. Remember you have a return trial period with the S400 , I think you need to pay a small fee should you decide to return it.
I have no idea about speakers and dont know how i stumbled upon this video.....but started listening the whole video. So Hey Thomas, you really can explain anything, infact your an excellent teacher from what I can infer. Now I want to look behind the curtain of the speaker world and enter the rabbit hole.
Welcome to my channel and thanks for the comment.
Nicely done. Your passion, your enthusiasm for audio comes through. You realise your fortunate to have a wife that let's you indulge in this hobby. Well, so long as the house payment is met and fridge filled. Curious, your friends with these 10k+ speakers, are they kicking themselves, shaking their heads thinking look at the money I've thrown away. Could have been happy with these. Chasing rainbows is expensive.
Thanks. My friends are very smart and humble so when they judge this speaker, they judge it based on price. These speakers and keep up with $10k speakers for certain things (width of soundstage for example) but not all things. So it's to be expected that there is a difference. My friend, when they build their highend system, they pushed those system to the max so they are on a different level overall.
Great video! A joy to watch. Great to see your friends mindblowing setups and their thoughts on the product.
I don't know a lot about hi fi or which speakers to buy, but I just found your channel and I feel like your videos are helping bit by bit.
So thanks!
Useless backstory:
I'm looking for new speakers for my PC, which is the center of my smaller living room. (there's a very crappy video of it on me channel, tank included)
Currently got a Teufel concept e 400, a discontinued modest €350 5.1 speakerset with 0.7 liter sattelites and a 12" sub.
I'm not unhappy with it but I know that music can sound better.
I think it's time for real bookshelf speakers now! I'm even toying with the idea of putting floorspeakers next to my desk if the all the drivers are near the top.
Bookshelf speakers are probably more practical though, but I'm still considering both.
These S400 speakers do look interesting, would they still sound good if you put them very close to a wall? I'm guessing the bass might become overpowered?
I'm looking for amazing speakers that I can place close to a wall, would these work? if anyone got any tips, feel free ;)
either 2.0 or 2.1, mostly for listening to rock, metal, music. Also youtube, games, movies.
A friend of mine has 2 genelec 8040 hooked up to his PC, and, well... would be nice if I could one up him, I suppose? ^^
Thanks! It depends where you are sitting. If you are sitting close to them listening while working on your computer, then a speaker that works well near field is what you need. The S400, other people said it does not work well near field due to it's wave guide. A floor standing would not work too. I personally don't ever test my speakers near field so i would not know how to recommend. What you can do is going forward, while looking at other people's video, pay attention to the part when they say how well it works nearfield.
@@ThomasAndStereo Thanks! I already heard the s300 are better with nearfield compared to s400. And it still sounds good right next to walls if you plug the bassport it looks like. (I think I got that from a zero fidelity video?). Maybe I should just go for a coaxial design like the LS50. I think I'll be pondering high(er) end audio a bit longer! Also considering zmf aeolus headphones atm ^^
Way better than Z review,this guy is no nonsense practical audiophile.
couldn't agree more.. I seriously hate Z reviews, that guy just rambles on without a focus, can't stand him
Really great insights Thomas. Your reviews are so good you may be able to quit your day job !! I really trust your opinions. I am trying to decide between these, the Special 40's and maybe even the Elac Navis. This helped to clarify the difference between these and the Dynaudio's. Thanks.
Wait for my Special 40 review, its an AMAZING speaker. Even the special 40 owner in the video said the S400 is very different than his special 40 so I would say you are chosing between a corolla and a jeep if you are considering both. You need to narrow down what kind of sound you like. Sweet sound+refined highs? Dynaudio, High energy sound+ Kick ass bass? S400.
@@ThomasAndStereo I have Sonus Faber now. Very easy on the ears but the detail is lacking. Being a drummer I am more use to a close up sound I guess. I can hear like say the ride pattern on a cym but not the sick actually striking, that initial dynamic strike. So I have a musical speaker now, but as you, I can't tolerate a lot of high frequency, bright sound. So the s400 sounds good for the dynamics but the Special 40's for it's sweet highs. I always use subs so bass is not a concern. I am leaning to Dynaudio. Decisions, decisions.
Yes, the Special 40 is so good especially if you are using a sub. For me if can get a good deal on it, it's a very SOLID recommend. On top of the sweet high, very refine and detail. Since you are using a sub, even easier to recommend. Just that in Canada, they raised the price so much... in the states, I think its $3k US.
Superb Review...I really appreciate your reflections and analysis....Thank You!!! Just pulled the trigger on the S400's(Smoky Oak)...I have s300's....love them!!! Would love to see you do a Live Stream....Thank You Thomas!!! Look forward to Your Reviews!!!
Probably one the best "Opinion About Loudspeakers" type of videos on RUclips ! Because we are all much too subjective about speakers we own it is of utmost importance to hear what other people who come from different Hi-Fi provenance think about same pair of speakers ! And you gave us exactly that: your own fair and extensive description of burchardt S400 AND your friends opinions after their long listening session and comparison to their own speakers that are from a completely different end of sound spectrum ! Invaluable video, indeed !!! Terrific job, Thomas !!!
P.S:.People from Focal / JM Lab origin always feel other speakers lack in highs ! Some of my friends felt that even for my long time gone B&W speakers with diamond tweeters !
P.P.S. Yes, I would like to be in your listening circle of friends, too !
Thanks. I find those speakers are tilted up but it all depends on equipment matching as you know. Are you in Montreal?
@@ThomasAndStereo Yeah, I frowned a bit when you said that small Dynaudios have sweeter highs, but, based on your description and opinion I am sure Burchardt S400 are incredible bookshelf sized speaker.
Thank you for your kind invitation, Thomas, but no, I am not from Montreal. I live in a small country in Europe.
Hey Thomas. Your approach is very interresting. I like your logic and your way of making things understandable. I hope to meet you one day and converse with you and your amazing experiences with what is out there. 😊
Not a review huh? In my estimation, this was your best review ever. You managed to really well put in to words the affect the speakers had on you and more importantly, the affect they had on your fellow audiophile buddies who, by now, all of we subscribers to your channel know very well. I'm blown away! Did you get a chance to audition them with a moderately powered tube amp (like my PrimaLuna Prologue 5!!!! LOL). I'd be interested to hear your impressions.
Thank you Thomas. You ARE a true asset to audiophiledom!
Thanks! I got my hand on a Prima Luna dialogue one integrated amp and it's amazing. I need to make a video on it but it's not a review...will explain in the video.
@@ThomasAndStereo I can't wait, you've heard so many amps from your own pocket and through you're network of audio buddies that I'd like to hear what you think. I have the Prologue 5 and never heard better!
Thomas, you should do an overview video of the components of a high end audio system. When your new room is finished you could explain why you brought these components into the room. I assume many people are like me, building a system over time and not purchasing all components at one time. For example, many people start with an AV receiver. Later adding separate amplification. What is the next upgrade to make progressive steps to the final goal of quality audio? Most impactful to least. For example is it: DAC, Preamp, Media Player, Power Distribution, Wiring. This could be very helpful to those of us building our systems!
Oh yes, I was going to do that when I talk about my own reference system actually. I also have a home AV system and I was going to talk about it when I talk about my hometheater. One day, just need to find time. Thanks for the suggestion.
Waiting eagerly to see your finished music room, and some re-reviews of things that you did previously to understand any impact from the room treatment. All the best Thomas
Wow! Serious renovations there! Good Luck! Also I notice in the specs that the S400 is crossed over LOWER than the S300.
2000Hz vs 2600Hz. Am wondering if that's part of the magic as well. The reason I say this is that I'm more of a vintage guy, and I have observed that the vintage speakers that sound best to my ear are almost ALL crossed over at 2000hz or LESS! There almost seems to be something magical around there. Even better at 1500Hz or less! I know this is a fairly gross way of proceeding and there are many more factors than that, but that is ONE constant for good music listening, at least for me? The other interesting factor is this almost marriage between a horn-like wave guide and a soft dome tweeter.
That is interesting about the cross over. I enjoy vintage gear a lot and will be making more videos on vintage gear in the near future. Yes, it's not really a horn but does have some of the characteristics.
Nice review. Hope you get to review the powered Buchardt speakers when they are available in June.
Imho you are better than z review. You can actually articulate sounds profiles . z is funny and very good as well. You are more accurate and precise imo. Thank you.
Thanks Paul. Z is super entertaining and we have a different style and somewhat different audience.
Apple's and oranges Thomas goes into depth Z Cut to the chase Lol I like both equally but I learned of Thomas from Z- reviews
Great review Thomas !
I enjoy your natural approach that helps me understand from your extensive experience.
According to Mads the producer these S400's would sound good with two subs.
Thanks. Yeah, it would be amazing as you will get the full range sound.
www.buchardtaudio.com/ for more info. Please note Buchardt offer a 30 days free return so there is no risk to try but don't buy it just for fun.
I did not do a full review guys are it would be too long if i did. So I focused more on me and my friend's experience instead.
For a true full review, check out Sean at Zero Fidelity
ruclips.net/video/gZJiEBtfah0/видео.html
Also note that every other speaker I mentioned in this video is way more expensive than the S400. For example, the Focal Kanta is $12k, Quad 989 is $15k+, Special 40 is almost $5k with the taxes and so forth.
Sounds like a pair that will be interesting to play with, in order to find out what they really love. Very good review.
Hi Thomas, this is the first time I viewed your video and come across ‘categorising speakers’, which is interesting. Never thought of it. Learned something new from this video of yours. And I fully agree with you. Just like cars, they are categorised (SUV, sedan, high performance sports car etc) with each having their own forte. The final point here is we need to understand each of them and what suits us.
Thanks. It's easier to explain when I categorize speakers. I elaborate it a bit more in the other video what speaker to buy.
The Buchardt S400 has that passive radiator on the backside. No sub required. They are really good.
Hey Thomas. Please make a review of Focal Chorus 615, if you get a chance. As the cheapest floor-standers in Focal family, I think they can be interesting for a budget option. Thank you.
Great commentary Thomas! Very interesting, and very thought out. I really enjoy the presentation style that use to make your videos. I always look forward to new videos from you. Good luck on the construction of your music room! Look very much forward to seeing the end result.
Thanks, I wanted to be let's hang out and chat type of format instead of formal review style of video. Glad it works for you.
A well spacious and treated room is important then the sound system. Good luck, hope the sound improves a lot.
Hey Thomas, great channel and great reviews. I am very fond of mini monitors and have a few myself, including the Amphion Argon, ProAc 1SC and PMC DB1. The Buchardt S400 caught my interest and might join my collection soon.
Nice, I have the PMC DB1 Gold and will be reviewing it soon, any tips?
@@ThomasAndStereo It's been a while since I last heard them, but as far as I remember, they have nice and tight bass for their size, overall tone quality a bit coloured and they are more forgiving if compared to my ProAcs Response 1SC. Mine are the db1 and not the dbi. Looking forward to see your review on the db1 gold.
Hi Thomas, great video as always. I love how you categorize the speakers in a way that is really helpful where you address specific characteristics and not just rate the overall sound, or the bass, treble, like everyone else. Understanding the nature of the speaker, or the way it conveys its sound, should be the main focus of a review. Being a fan of natural sounding speakers, I have a growing interest in both this speaker and the Dynaudio Special Forty. As you mentioned that you have a friend who owns a pair of Dynaudios, could be more specific in the differences between the two? Or maybe even do a review of the Special Forty with emphasis on the comparison? Many thanks and best wishes for your channel.
Thanks. If you can afford the special 40, get it. Here in Canada, the price gap is REALLY big so there it is not a fair comparison. The special 40 is what I call the traditional sound with a bit of everything. Meaning that when you hear it, it will not surprise you as you have heard countless speakers out there and the Special 40 will sound familiar. It has the detail of metal based dome tweeter, it has the musicality of musical speakers. It has good separation and imaging, just so so bass. So it's an all well rounded speaker. Now, sure it's amazing but its also very expensive here in Canada. We are looking close to $5k with the taxes. It's what I call a very safe sound. The S400, assuming you have experience listening to many speakers will sound very different. This speaker is not about detail and separation, sure it is ok but it's true strength is energy and wide sound stage with great bass. However, if you don't like quick roll off (the special 40 does not) then it is a deal breaker. If you are ok with it, assuming you have heard high end harbeth before and you are looking to experience energy 'like' in a concert, then you choose the S400. That is why I create a category for itself. It took me sometime to understand it so don't under estimate the difference. I will one day do a video on the Special 40 but I have to be careful when comparing to other speakers because it's normal it does things better, it is way more expensive after all. If it did not, no one will buy it.
@@ThomasAndStereo Thanks a lot for your input. Will try and get the Special 40 and after, take advantage of the tryout period of the Buchardt to decide wich I prefer with my gear. Looking forward for more videos.
Please let me know your findings.
Great to see you back. Love your videos. I also share your obsession.
Thomas, I believe you need to try out some active speakers (the energy in the music). Apparently buchardt actives are amazing. I use ATC SCM100 actives and I really feel like staying with them forever. Another advantage, you're not bothered with picking power amp.
One of your best reviews! Very well done. You hit on a very important truth concerning speaker size and the room they are in. For me, I need to be able to get all I am looking for at relatively low volumes. As you discovered, your Canton's do not work too well util your crank them up a bit. I'm convinced that the way to go for most of us with budget and space limitations is quality bookshelves with a sub. I had a pair of Baby Advents hooked up with a sub and the sound was amazing. But, I am looking for incredible so I gave them to a friend of mine who needed something for a small bedroom. So, I do appreciate this review as I am back to shopping for bookshelves. By the way, I am also sold on passive radiators. I have an old pair of Polk Audio Monitor Plus 5 Jr.'s (more or less a large bookshelf speaker) and those things really get low. Very tight and defined. They have 8 inch passives and I believe they are rated down to 32 Hz. Again, thanks for this review, it was a big help.
Yes, I never mentioned about it in the video about the passive radiator but my friends who build speakers were impressed by it. The bass is well controlled because of it. Thanks for the feedback.
I am sold on them. I wonder why they aren't utilized more? I notice that Klipsch has a huge one on their Heresy III. I think I would prefer one to a port.
Hi Thomas. Thanks for the great review. These S400 are intriguing me, not only because of the positive reviews, but for the many comments about the different sound that they produce. Based on all reviews I watched, it seems that they are power hungry. Making a simple search in their website I found the impedance curve of the speakers, almost hidden in the bottom of the page. Interestingly it stays flat in about 4 ohms for most of the frequencies. Maybe this is one of the reasons that it doesn't play well with the Pathos TT, but was good with the Logos. Maybe it might not be suitable for tube amps.
It could be we were asking too much from that TT too. The place is really big and we were pushing the volume to fill the room. My other friend thought it was ok with his Sansui. I used it with the Prima Luna integrated amp, 35w I think, the top end sounded great but bass was meh. So I would say, you need a bit of power to bring out the best in them.
Thank you for the review. Very weel done. When can we have comparaison with the SVS Ultra Bookshelf ? It wolud be greatly appreciated. . Thanks again.
I know it’s been a while since you posted this, but I have a similar mindset and obsession! I subbed and liked. Great video
Very nice review, hope you can test the Falcon LS3/5A speakers soon. Thank you.
Always like the way you review stuff...really love it.
“Like a high maintenance girlfriend” - your phrases used to describe HiFi equipment are terrific!
Thank you so much Thomas. Have really enjoyed watching hours and hours of your videos.
Great review of S400 but still very confused as my knowledge is very limited.
1) Between S400 and A500 (from other channels), which one should I buy and what should be the criteria to decided one over the other.
2) If I decide to buy S400, what should I pair it up (integrated streamer amplifier). I was looking at NAD M10, Naim Uniti Atom and few others but not sure if any of them are good to pair with these to drive them appropriately. Most of my listening are very average and normal stuff (orchestra, strings - violin, jazz - vocals, classic English rock, world fusion - instrumental, others). I do not listen to heavy metal or hip hop genre).
Any guidance would really help.
Thanks Tom for the quick reply Thomas I saw his review on them did he do a different one on set up ? I recently bought a Hint 6 but I also have an old AR VT200 in storage I can use the the pre outs of the Halo to the Audio Research do you think the S400s like tubes or solid state better. I noticed in your review you said they don't play nice with certain gear. Again excellent reviiew and thanks in advance for your opinion.
ruclips.net/video/Hy86se0vJbw/видео.html
You need power with the S400, so I would use tube but only at the front end in a separate configuration.
Hey Thomas, I liked your chart in terms of sound characteristics, but I have a challenge for you. Take a listen to some Pro Focals, particularly the SM9's. They have very powerful amps, and a number of equalization controls on the back that allow you to tame what you might call the "analytical" nature of those speakers. They have replaced my Von Schweikert VR-4 Silvers and Martin Logan Requests as my best source at home. I think they sound much better than the home versions of Focal's speakers.
Great suggestion! I just need to get one at good price.
Hi Thomas,
You mentioned before that speakers are, for the most part, priced correctly. That said, a higher priced pair of speakers should outperform a lower priced pair of speakers.
In the case of the Buchardt S400, since the company markets this product online and therefore, no markup from distribution/dealers, do you think the S400’s can compete with speakers priced above the $2k mark?
Thanks and Merry Christmas.
Thomas I really like this picture you wrote out with treble scores. Brilliant man!
Hello Thomas, I was really impressed with your video and I am now interested in buying the S400. I am also looking for a new integrated amp and I believe I have settled on the primaluna dialogue premium hp. Do you have access to one? What do you feel about how they would partner up. I have KEFS now and more interested in warmer and musical side of middle and less about the plus treble boost of the KEFS. Thank you in advance for your thoughts on the matter.
I tried it with the Prima Luna dialogue one ( the cheapest integrated) and the highs were nice but the bass was not as good as when I paired it with a powerful solid state. Now keep in mind the KEFs are very good in detail and instrument separation. If you put those as priority (It's hard to let go once you are used to it) and you want a closer sound but just need the extra bass, then the S300 would be a great LATERAL move. Now the S400 is more about energy and wide sound stage, perhaps a bit like at a concert type of feel. You lose detail and instrument separation relative to a KEF BUT you gain something different. The S400 is a sophisticated speaker but before you buy, go check out some klipsch just to see if horn type of speaker works for you. The S400 is not a horn but share some characteristics.
That cupped hands coloration is what is usually called thickness or warmth. I just swapped pads on my headphones and got just that effect. Music seems more pressurized and lively at first but I've never been able to tolerate this sound for long
Great video- I'm interested in the Dynaudio special 40 as well as this one. Which do you think is "better"? I'm especially interested in detail retrieval, dynamics and sound stage. Thanks!
I would say detail retrieval and instrument separation, the Special 40. Dynamics, both are good, Soundstage, the S400 is wider but not as precise. This is to be expected as the special 40 is way more expensive.
Hey Thomas- Early sub here. Once again, thanks for your impressions and nice review of the S400. Good luck with the new listening room-keep us posted! Interesting comment your friend made (he didn’t like the S400- wanted more detail/separation) w his Kanta’s vs the S400. Although, the Kanta’s are in a “different league”.
I own a great pair of Focal bookshelves. My first bookshelf due to moving into a new home with a smaller 11’ x 11’ x 9’ dedicated listening room. It’s the Focal 807 V W Prestige. An upgraded 807 V Chorus. It has a 7” “W” cone mid-driver technology found in the high-end Focals. Tweet is the inverted Al/Mag alloy 1” TNV. The box is an oversized (larger) for a bookshelf- 22lb speaker, in piano black. Have you heard this speaker? I’m sure you’re familiar with the tweeter. I would call it extended but not necessarily “bright”. Curious how the S400 and 300’s would compare to my Focals. Any thoughts??? Keep up the great work, Thomas!!! Cheers from the States....CANADIAN’S ROCK!!!!!!!
Well I do want to clarify, its just not only against his Kanta but rather against 'metal' based dome tweeters. Even against the KEF LS50, you will feel the KEF more detail. You will still hear all the nuances with the S400 but not with the 'sparkle' that metal based dome tweeters are famous for, That is why I stress that part as for some people, it's a deal breaker, like my friend who owns the Kanta. I had the Focal 836v before so I know it's sound. Completely different sound compare to the S400,. The S300 is closer to your focal speaker sound. Less detail but better low end The S400 is in the 'musical' sound world so completely opposite of your focals. If you LOVE focal, you will have a hard time with musical speakers like sonus faber, higher end harbeth and so forth.
Hi Thomas. Thanks for the great video! Are you considering making one with the s400 mk2?
Eventually
You are missing the forest for the trees.
A simple(ideal) way to analyze a sound system is to compare a live symphony that you attend at a reference hall and what the same recording of the same piece of music sounds like on your stereo. Obviously, where you are sitting in the concert hall will affect your listening experience. I happen to live within 30 miles of two world class symphony hall. Each hall has its own sound character( one was built as an architectural wonder first, while the other was sound first). With a little bit of effort you can come very close to achieving that live performance in your own home for very little cash.
A jazz performance in a small venue is also another reference to use in building your sound system. Find reference recordings that are out there to judge systems.
Chasing equipment for different sounds with no reference for what is the correct sound is a fools errand. Classifying speakers based on tweeter material, because someone said it is so 25 years ago is not reasonable. Throw out your preconceived notions that you have been fed by the audio industry. A speaker in and of itself is not musical or analytical. It is a sound transducer that produces sound from electrical current. It is not magic.
The end goal should be to have you system transport you to the exact time and place of the recording as if you are there for it. Once you reach this point, though, bad recordings on your system will be obvious.
35goaltender that’s how I got into good audio equipment. I went to performance of Beethoven’s 9th symphony and I really enjoyed it. When I got home I played it on what I thought was my really good hifi. It was awful! That’s when I decided that I wanted t get the best hifi that I could. I’ve not managed to replicate the sound of two large choirs in my home but I’ve come pretty close!
How to talk about speakers, let everyone know exactly how they sound and not come off like a stiff "pro" reviewer. Thank you.
I was thinking that too. He didn't use audiophile terms, but likeness terms, which is what consumers will think when they are introducing themselves into hi end audio. Good job with how you do this video.
Hello Thomas. I noticed you kept your Totem Signature 1. I have the original Totem Model 1 and you were spot on about being a high maintenance girl friend that wants you to drop everything to listen to her. Once you do, she is a pleasure though. With that said, does that mean you will keep the S400 for the long term for variety's sake or send it back after a short fling?
Yeah, the signature one is so precise. The S400, I actually send it back after I reviewed it, I have too many speakers and I am actually more into floor standing speakers so I have let go all my bookshelf.
Good Times!
Dont forget triangle pillows in corners
You really go out your way to make your video special i dig that
Thanks Andreas. Yup. got the bass traps and those make the biggest difference.
yt3.ggpht.com/XVWAUnYSVboYuUOUc2lW_-f9wYV29LbF3L0WfENE65D9HCqIuIEeheDGx8yirlqA2NMV0plPEz9VtQ=s1600-nd
Thanks Thomas. Great review and I plan to buy the S400s because of your review. Thanks!
Thanks! I would say, go listen to a Klipsh at a bestbuy to get an idea if you like the 'horn' sound. It's not really a horn so also go audition the Sonus faber or Harbeth to get an idea how musical speaker sounds. I purposely repeated it as I wanted people to have a true understanding what they are getting. It's a sophisticated speaker and the best part is you have 30 day trial period so you can't go wrong. Just make sure you break it in too. I never did because I got mine from Sean and it's already broken in.
Hi Thomas, another good video! Im a bit puzzled when you talk about tweeter decay. I tried to get into an explanation so far I only found that that a wide dispersion tweeter might dissipate energy faster then narrow dispersion but its very room related. There is resonance in the tweeter but its extremely short and unwanted. Its not supposed to make a noticable difference in the time domain like you describe. Im tempted to say that its more a question of how revealing the tweeter is and not directly about its time decay. Id like if you could clarify a bit the question in your next video. Otherwise well keep doing those videos its very much appreciated!
Not sure what it is but I hear it in Sonus faber, Tekton double impact too. Think of a bell ringing, the kef would be let the bell ring until it stops by itself. While the other ones will be you stop that ringing with the help of your finger so it's shorter.
Thomas can you do one, since their on half price Elac Adante AS-61. You have a great way explaining, expressing, speakers sounds.
Hi Thomas a friend is seeking an " affordable " amp for the S400 ( Mads from Buchardt audio is coming out with a 250 watts per channel integrated amp plus Dac in a year or so designed specifically for the S400 ) Its too long to wait... you allude to the Prima Luna as an option. From Taiwan there is the Simon Audio Group all-in-one at 160 watts into 4 ohms. i'm guessing that would be sufficient power. I saw you had the Pathos Logos MK2 in testing the S400 is that your amp of choice in this case ?
Well, my favorite was Modwright LS100 + Moon W5.3 with the S400. The pathos and Prima Luna was ok but it's bass was so so. I personally like it way way more with the extra power.
I think your point on the size of the speaker in the room, and it's volume is very important,
In my honest opinion, people often make the mistake of buying too big speakers for a certain size room, and it messes them up a lot of the time. Can't get the bass right, can't get proper image because of the size of the room blabbla
Yeah, I now realized how important the room is. I always knew but now I really know.
Appreciate your unbias reviews, very clear and descriptive
Love your video Thomas, very very informative. I want to build a stereo system (my first) but having no experience at all your video means a lot. I emailed buchardt-audio and Mads was saying my room might be too small (L13 x B7x H8 ft) and suggested ‘some room correction solution to get in control of the bass, tune down the room modes’ which I seriously have no idea how to do or what to do. Right now they are offering a €200 pre-order discount and I think it might be a good deal. I heard many great reviews of the S400 but I don’t have the time and knowledge to do up my room. What is your opinion, should I get the S400 or can you suggest some other speakers plus amps which is more suitable for a room of this size? I listen to all types of music/songs like Journey, Eagles, Norah Jones, Laura Fygi, 蔡琴 (Taiwanese singer). To all other viewers of Thomas and Stereo any suggestions are much appreciated :). I have a budget of US$8000 for the whole setup (I know it’s not a lot). Thanks and looking forward to your reply.
Cliff
Hey Cliff, sorry I missed this comment. With $8k US, and you are buying used or new? You can do a lot and there are so many choices. Have to know what is your taste first, are you still looking or you have already bought?
Hi Thomas,
No worries. I’m looking for a new setup and not sure what you mean by “taste”. I like to listen to something without having to bring the volume up too high and I like nice clear vocal (not sure if that is the way to explain it:). I’m thinking of getting a streamer where I can play Tidal or Spotify as well as getting a CD player for my CDs. Hope to add turntable in the future. Wonder if you can recommend a streamer, pre/power amp or integrated amp and speakers. Thanks for spending your time to look into my queries.
Cliff
So, when I say taste, I guess what is your priority, some people absolutely want vocals to be the most important and don't care the rest. In that case, a harbeth 30.1 is a good starting point. Some want to have the most revealing speakers possible, then those people should look for KEF, Focal, and so forth. Some want bass to be the most important, some people want dynamics (those should look at horns). Some like to go for long listening session and would sacrifice detail for non fatiguing highs, those people would look for musical speakers like sonus faber for example. So in short, the choice of speaker is very very important and you have to know what kind of sound you like. As such, first homework is to go out and listen to a few speakers and then decide what you like. The frontend comes later. Don't assume you like anything until you try. Many people say I like musical speakers only to find out they sound like there is a veil infront of it compare to a revealing speaker.
Thank you Thomas. I guess I’ll go and do my homework first. Appreciate it.
Cliff
@@clifftsl Yes, make sure you listen to the big brand to get a good frame of reference. Maybe metal based tweeters from focal are your cup of tea. Once you decide on which type, then you listen for imaging, instrument separation, soundstage. So go check out horn, ribbon (Monitor audio, high end Elac), electrostatic, metal and soft dome tweeters. If you don't have a lot of time, just focus on a few metal based (kef, focal, B&W) and a few soft dome. (Dynaudio)
What a great honest review rolled into a chat with the audience, I'm subscribed.
The passive radiator would help the bass, cos that tech is great for reducing box size. And you have the same sort of depth per cubic inch as with bluetooth speakers, but scaled up enough to sound amazing.
Thought its appropriate to mention that we just purchased the Buchardt in Smoked Oak last night ;)
On its way to Singapore!
Congrats. Hope you enjoy it.
Thomas, will you be reviewing the A500 Active Speakers any time soon? Zero Fidelity recently gave it a pretty high review and these speakers appear to be "revolutionary"
Excellent videos on both Buchardts. I’d be curious to know that if you had to choose between the s300 and s400 which you’d choose. And conversely which speaker you choose over either in the $2000 space.
If I can only keep one speaker, then S300. If I can keep multiple speaker, the S400. $2k space new? Hmm...I don't know since I never had many, if any, in that price range that i have tried. If $2k used, that is a different story.
Thomas & Stereo excellent. Than you so much.
...I have read as many Buch s'400 reviews as Y-tube provides-almost without exception-good reviews-
I have had a set for about 6 months-they are better (quality/sound) than words can capture
Congrats Tom. Glad you are enjoying them.
Tom Cravens - what are you powering yours with? I'm seriously thinking of getting the S400's as go-betweens on my Totem Model 1's.
Please do a comparison of a hybrid tube/solid state integrated vs. a solely tube integrated. I have seen you use a solid state integrated, but I usually see your McIntosh preamp/ amp setup in use. Great channel- easy to understand. Thanks.
I don't have one where I can compare fairly. My hybrids are more than 4 times the price of my tube integrated :(
Hi Thomas
Like very much your reviews !
What on your opinion is the best set up for the S400 Speakers
Valve or Solid State amps?
Having in mind the CAYIN CS-55A,
YAQIN MS-110B or Riga Brio amp . My room is not that big and I would like to use the headphone output.
For me, I need a setup that has power and it has to be smooth. I don't know those 2 amps but I remember it matched well with the Prima Luna entry level integrated amp. The bass could be better but the top end is great.
Hi Thomas, I liked your classification approach. First time I see something like that after years of audiophile videos and magazines. Where would you put the Monitor Audio you reviewed within that classification?
Thanks, those would be the analytical hard dome tweeter group.
Can't wait to check these out, unfortunately they currently retail for nearly double the US price here in Europe, but I guess that will be compensated in the near future.
I'm very impressed with your videos on the Buchardt S400 & S300. I'd never heard of this brand before this. I currently own a pair of Sonus Faber Venere 2.0, not sure if you've tested them and am curious if it makes sense for me to buy either the S300 or 400 given that the Buchardts punch way above their price range. Thanks.
You have a very nice speaker already and for you to really upgrade, you got to move way beyond this price bracket. As good as these speakers are, they should not be way off compare to your speakers. They will sound different especially the S400 with the waveguide. If you had a cheap speaker, I would say it is an upgrade but you don't have a cheap speaker.
@@ThomasAndStereo Thanks man. Keep up the good work.
Thomas, I love your channel but how do you say that this is not going to be a review in the video and the title of the video says that it is review? I would change the title unless you don't care 😊. But I would have liked to have heard your review of the actual speakers. Always getting another opinion is good and you have a trustworthy way of communicating
I debated on that myself and I don't know what to put. Maybe (Not a review?)
Thomas, thank you once again for a concise, introspective, and comparative review on these S400s. ..Always educational!
THEORY: im thinking these speakers MIGHT just need some extra help in anchoring them down to the stands, for best sound, perhaps.? Maybe some blu-tac putty underneath??.. or also some sand /lead short placed on top???
Z reviews (?) I believe stated that these speakers, when played loud, WALKED THE SPEAKERS ALMOST COMPLETELY OFF THE STANDS from vibrations!!! Im assuming the action of the woofer, in conjunction with the passive radiator in back (PLUS the relatively light weight property of the speakers), may just require some extra help in keeping things SOLID and DETAILED sounding!????.. Its a theory anyway.
Maybe someone auditioning these could try addressing this, with weight on top, or whatever, , to see if micro dynamics, image solidity and detail improve..?
Yes, need good solid stand for it. Not really a problem for me in the sense that my stands are over 40LB so my speakers don't move even when play loud. Also the wood where the speaker is on also have spikes underneath. It's the nature of the speaker that it does not sound like other speakers.
Thomas & Stereo blue tach is a godsend for stand mounts