Hey guys. please click the like button on the video if you enjoyed our blind test ! It took us a lot of effort and time to make this video so we would appreciate it ! Also we chose the ELAC this time because it was the most requested BUT like I said in the end of this video, we very much will try with something higher up in the price ranges later ! SUBSCRIBE for that ! FULL Blind A/B Test video: ruclips.net/video/-hwJeWcI6Hs/видео.html Related Videos: Buchardt S400 MKII: ruclips.net/video/PJRBMCA3FzI/видео.html Elac Unifi Reference: ruclips.net/video/ScFTfEpvKDA/видео.html denafrips thallo and hades stack: ruclips.net/video/F7m_nRvE17k/видео.html 0:00 Buchardt S400 MKII RECAP 0:47 Blind Test Setup 6:12 Setting Up the Blind Test 7:10 Buchardt S400 MKII VS ELAC Unifi Reference 16:53 Community Q&A
Yeah, I don't really think it's a fair comparison... The Buchardts are much pricier speakers. At least were I am the Buchardts are nearly three times the price of the Elacs. This would make more sense if in fact the Elacs were at least close to the Buchardts performance or price.
A fair comparison would be the Elac floorstander vs the Buchardt. Also, the Buchardt was designed to work better closer to the wall. The Elac wasn't...so, it appears that you gimped the Elac in terms of placement
@@wa2368 that would be interesting but wouldn’t call it “fair.” Floor stander vs bookshelf - not only is it logically harder to AB, each do their own things differently in soundstage, imaging and scale. If you watched the video. I explain how that placement was a compromise between the two. So no, the placement wasn’t given to the buchardts
@@Jayiyagi Well, Buchardt did say their bookshelf is designed to be a substitute for a floorstander. So, put it up against the elac floorstander (which I still a whole lot cheaper than Buchardt) and let them put their money where their mouth is. Also, the elacs need more space to image (different design).. Test each speaker at the location it sounds bbest. What is your problem with both speakers performing their best in a test? Why deliberately gimp one?
Really enjoyed this video and inclusion of the Q&A for the 2nd half. It's kind of like you are having an informal conversation with us by answering a string of viewer comments. Maybe continue doing this 2nd half Q&A section in the comparison videos where it makes sense. It's super cool! Really fun to listen too your thoughts and enthusiasm.
Jay, when matching the loudness of the speakers instead of 1 kHz tone you should use the so-called "white noise". At least that's what they do in Harman's Subjective Evaluation Lab.
Agree on all points...and for low volume listening, I find Audyssey's Dynamic EQ the perfect solution for that. It will bump the highs and lows and get them sounding great when you need to play quiet. And, it's not a set amount, but adjusts based on volume level. I prefer using a neutral speaker like the Buchardt to have an accurate baseline to make these changes from, rather than a speaker that exaggerates things and can't be undone.
Thanks for your hard work Jay. Your approach combining a somewhat more scientiific approach mixed with practical listening tests is greatly appreciated. I think you strike a good balance. I really enjoy the guys at Audio Excellence Canada as well. They are so fun to listen to. I probably think there might be some differences in setup and approach and that they usually almost exclusively deal in very high-end (which I am sure you are accustomed to as well) might have something to do with the different outcome. Anyway, we don't have to agree on absolutely everything. Thanks again, looking forward to more fun content!
Ha they nailed it again, is it worth two times the price for me, yes besides the way Sean Nova and Jay describe there findings the Buchards look way more appealing to me, thanks again for re-visiting and doing this blind test which I highly appreciated, looking foreward seeing you both in front of the camera
I would like to add input on amp pairings with the S400. I am using the Gato Amp-150 which I had on pre-order when I was choosing between the S400 SE and the S400 MK2. Daniel at Buchardt really helped me making the decision and what tipped the scale towards the MK2 was the fact that one of the amps used while designing the speakers was in fact the Gato. Therefore, the match in my mind is perfect 👌
Jay, it is the room! Your front wall covered by diffusers almost from floor to ceiling, that makes a huge improvement in sound, because my dedicated listening room's front wall covered by diffusers as yours from floor to ceiling(almost), also I have two corner bass traps(floor to ceiling). With them and without them makes a huge difference. Did Adrian's room have the room as yours? you should go to their store to listen.
Hi, a very good comparison! but I think that a better comparison will be to the ELAC Vela 403Bs .. I know you liked this Elac very much too .. If you have some time, let me know what you think about it. Another question: do you think the NAD M10 v2 and Elac Vela 403 are a good combination? what at this price you would strongly recommend? Greetings from Poland
Don't know the results, but just because another speaker might have caught up or something doesn't mean you over-hyped the Buchs. You gave them a genuine, honest review. You and however many other people... They're just that good. (Shaking the house with a pair of bookshelves? Wow...!)
I have a Unico Primo at 75 this is an outstanding integrated and if 75 watts would handle the 400s, might be an excellent match. One 12az7 in the pre section adds a little tub goodness
Jay, I'd be very curious to know how you think the Tannoy Revolution XT-8F might compare/contrast/compete with the Buchardt. I ask since I know you already reviewed the Tannoy. Thanks!
Hi Jay. I’m glad you also revisited this. How would the Buchard S400mk2 compare with the Sonus Faber Sonetto two. Is it a fair comparison.? I AEs work but their I found it hard to understand their take on the Buchards.
In my 6 months with the Buchs, I certainly found them to be a super jack of all trades with any genre, with vinyl and a good R2R. I could not speak to anything under 100w and discovered that regardless of different component synergy, a 150 - 200 watt amp will meet these speakers at the best possible starting point and bring out their best.
Not mentioned by Jay, but an amp based on the Hypex NCore 4 ohm 250W module fits the bill very well here. It's the one used in the Buchardt amp as well.
Jay taking a step above Proud of You my dude ! And dam it, they need to pay you for all the hard work you put in All the editing and approach you come up with for the review Great Job Jay Appricate all you do !
After it's all said and done...It's all about sound...returned these back for refund and had to pay Buchardt $100...they had no detail or character...finally found my end game after testing many speakers on my new Marantz 40n...the Dali Rubicon 2 is end game for me...best non tube stand mount set up for sound...simplicity at its best!!
Why don’t you compare the KEF R3 to the Buchardt s400 MKII KEF are similar in value - I’d say much better value if you get KEF R3 now. ELAc is also match for for the KEF R3 - similar tech in both speakers.
To many Bios reviews...review the Dali Rubicon 2 it's an END GAME! I first auditioned these Buchardt S400 MKll ...sent them back and was charged €100 for return...After auditioning so many speakers I found my END GAME- Dali Rubicon 2 , these have full sound stage and detail with plenty enough bass for now...maybe I'll try a sub in the future...these Dali's blow away even the Sonus Faber... I actually auditioned many speakers in the local privately owned Hi-fi store...
So many comments regarding the wide differences in opinions between you and Audio Excellence; perhaps it’s driven by variations in the track lists and overall music preferences. The tunes you mentioned in your review are fairly laid back vocally oriented tracks, not fast paced jazz or classic rock. This could be accounting for the differences? But love your approach and effort in the blind comparisons.
Would the Dynaudio Evoke 20‘s be a good speaker to compare next to the Buchardts? Similar price range for one thing… Also would the Arcam SA30 pair well with the S400mkII‘s?
I have old Arcam FMJ A19 and Bouchardt S400MK2, it sounds like top end is too recesed. Now I´m using Kinki Studio EX-M1+ and its so much better, everything that I was missing from my old combo B&W 606 and Arcam is back and much better
Hello Jay and thank you for the videos you make, always being objective. How does the S400 Mk2 compare to the Dynaudio Heritage Special? I speak in terms of musicality and rendering. Thank you for your answer ✌️😁
I heard one reviewer mention the Elac needs a bit of volume to sound good. How is the Buchardt at a bit lower listening volume compared to the Elac? edit: answered in the video, awesome:)
Cool, yet if they are giant killers, pls compare to a higher priced speaker. It's like saying a Porsche 911 is a giant killer, then racing it against a Ford Mustang. Let's see Buchardt S400 MKII slay a giant (Sonus Faber Amator)!
Great video, Jay. Considering the prices, do you think supplementing Elacs with a quality Rel sub would overcome Bucchards sound quality? I am shopping for Elac unify ref and would like your opinion. Cheers!
you are right about having the loudspeakers at the same level, but you would never use a single tone (1khz) to do this. You need more of an average pink noise is the answer.
Thanks for revisiting the S400 MKIIs Jay! A lot of good information here since I've been considering pulling the trigger on a pair. But if they don't pair well with tubes can you suggest any alternative speakers that a tube amp could drive well that would offer similar performance to the Buchardts?
Tektons easily come to mind haha. Pendragon or double impact or 2-10 but.. you need the space. Hard to get Buchardts extension and sound in a bookshelf let alone with one thats sensitive enough for tubes
Triangle Genese Trio speakers paired with the 10watt Luxman SQ-N150 tube integrated amp is a synergistic pairing in my room. Sean at Zero Fidelity compared the Trios to the Buchardt S400 MK 1's... The Genese Trios have good bass and also sound great at low listening levels.
@@irisfinchmusic Agree the Genese Trios goes well with tubes though I find them a little laid back. The tube amp I used was the Willsenton R8 with upgraded tubes , nice match.
Hi at first I want to apologise about (maybe) stupid question but I am absolute new in this hobby. Last few months i have spent a lot of money and i have made a lot mistakes. So i have s400 mk2 and I wanted to get terminator + amp, but in forums told me that I will not hear any difference between terminator and Denafrips Pontus II , Venus II, and terminator + with Buchardt s400 mk2 (or very almost none). You have heard speakers and amps, and you have very high opinion about them. What do you think? p.s.1 I will appreciate if you answer. p.s.2 every one is welcome to give their feedback, I will appreciate it.
Good review Jay. One thing you have to remember though is the boutique caps, inductors and resistors in the Buchardt speakers. Wonder how would the Elacs would fair if the X-over components were upgraded? Wish I had a pair as I have done that kind of work with many other speakers. Is soundstage and imaging comparable between the two?
No you didn't. I've listened to a ton of speakers, it's like my hobby. The only speaker I've seen smoke these are the B&W 802 D4 and they are a little more expensive. I bought a pair of these after watching your review and many others. Nothing is close in my opinion. I love these and I'm only powering them with a NAD C 700 and they sound insane. What they can do with female vocals is incredible. I've seen some other people's opinions on RUclips downplaying their impressiveness and believe they are lying or losing their hearing.
Calling someone a liar just because they dont like what you like is just being plain ignorant. I didnt like how the S400MKII sounded like compared to other speakers and I can hear till 15.5khz on my right ear and 14.5khz on my left.
Great review. Always freak out when I see the Buchardt's placed with the tweeter "upside-down"! 😆 You should get some real music though. Everyone has heard Adele and might know what you're talking about if you said I heard this or that. Back in my day we could trust speaker reviews to use a popular piece of classical music (Beethoven, Mozart...) for reference! 😉
Haha idk man. I think my music choices are spectacular for testing speakers and enjoyment in general. Have had many ppl tell me that and some manufacturers even adapted some of my list for their testings … so… weird flex 💪
Good question from Hector about the Tekton lore reference and Buchardt S400 MK II I like them both which makes it hard to choose, maybe I should take them both
Interesting video. Thanks. I was curious about your comment that bookshelf speakers can do some things better than floorstanders. Have you talked about this in another video, or could you give a few examples?
it's your channel. but a fair comparison is to compare a speaker in the same price range. And you said it was a giant killer so you should compare it to a much more expensive speaker. My opinion, the difference in opinion between you and Audio Excellence is the Room. Audiophiles love spend on audio equipment but wont spend on room treatment or don't know how to implement it. The fact is room is major % of the sound.And different speakers favor a particular room. And that being said you will get the best out of a speaker until it is in a properly treated room.#2 synergy you took the time to see what equipment played nice with these speakers. Or you had the equipment on hand that had synergy and they didn't.
Hey Jay , thanks for the great video! I was ready to pull the trigger on the MK2, but having Hegel H120 and room limitations (2 - 2.5 meters listening distance) I will skip them. Can you please advise pairing the h120 with Dynaudio? I am looking for evoke 20 (not sure you have heard them) and Special 40 , that you reviewed 2 years back . How they compare to the MK2 ? (Don't take into account diff prices) Which one you'd think is better at low volumes? Thanks a ton.
I’m auditioning both speakers right now. I agree with most points given to the Buchardt s400 mk2. But I find that the imaging on the elac to be superior by a long shot. Is this because of the amp I am using (audiolab7000a)? or speaker placement maybe? On a song like intergalactic by the beasty boys the imaging and the different instruments sounding like they are coming from all over the stage from the elacs shocked me and made the song so interesting to listen to. On the Buchardts they were decent but I feel like the elacs were way better
@@chinmeyswayI think they should only grab the Elacs if imaging is that much more important to them. They mentioned that the S400 is better in most aspects, so it depends on what value they place in each aspect of the sound production.
Hey Jay, I wonder if you ever listened to the Sony's SS-G3 speakers? They are from what seems to be 1977s according to some stuff I found online (very few things online for these). If you did, what did you think of them? Everyone seems to agree they are very good, but I don't have an amp or anything to power these babies up right now and I don't have anything hi-fi to compare them to.
We need to see you do the blindfolded (real good blindfold) listening tests and hear your immediate review with no video splicing. This summary at the end of all testing is bogus.
So - interesting that how Jay heard the Sonetto II as compared to the S400II is exactly the polar opposite of how we at AE heard it. And there is no sub-bass on either of these speakers.
@@vilipmak3973 You are defining Infrasound. (sound below 20hz) Sub Bass is almost unanimously defined as below 60-70hz. (google it) According to your definition... You are right... you shouldn't hear/feel any sub bass on these or much of any other speakers when playing "music" because as you may know... music does not contain frequencies down that low let alone below 20hz...unless you are listening to pipe organ (which I know you do not).
Would love to hear what the ten notes were to select between the two speakers? Jay, you said you gave 9/10 for the Buchardt but for what criteria did you vote exactly? Love your vids! Beware of the shirt-sponsors...🙂
Hi Jay! Question for you...Would you consider the Parasound P6 preamp and the 21+ amp to be a good match to drive those Buchardt speaker? Or would the Denafrips setup; as stated/shown in your video, still be the better choice? Thanks!
do you think I could get away with driving the Buchardt S400 MKII with a Cary audio 300SLI. It is a 15watts 300B single ended amp. It does have 4 ohm tap on the speaker outputs. I play an avg. of 80db about 7 feet from my speakers now My speaker now is 2way 5.5 woofer a ribbon tweeter. there 86 db eff.
Hi Jay, I have the Hegel H390, and I love it. I have the Dynaudio contour 20i and I'm not happy. How do you think KLH Model 5 will pair well with the Hegel? Or what speakers would you recommend since you are familiar woth the Hegel amps? Thanks
Klh model 5 might be a good match with the hegel. Other suggestions with hegel would be KEF R3, KEF ls50 meta, more KEF and magnepans Yes… kef and hegel is a great synergistic match
what a great video. hey Jay I own a pair of Buchardt s400's Mkii and I'm waiting on a pair of model 5's to arrive. I've been powering the s400's with a kinki exm-1 but I've been curious about that denafrips combo you keep mentioning. will I've been gaining anything from going to the denafrips combo? or will it be almost a toss up? I like the good extension and grip the Kninki brings to the s400's, specially with Sparkos op amps.
Given the price difference between the two speakers, (about $900 USD) a subwoofer should have been added to the Elac for a fair comparison. Also, speakers other than 2-way bookshelf models should be considered, such as floor-standers, and even a 3-way speaker such as KLH 5, especially since the cost of stands has to be included for the bookshelf models. The Buchardt stands are about $475 USD. Another concern I have is that it is obvious, mostly because of the S400 passive radiator, that the Buchardt has the best deep bass. But not all music has deep bass, unless one assumes that the purpose of buying hi-fi gear it to listen to demo tracks, and not to listen to great music. Also, you should get some older people (maybe about 50+ years of age) to test them, since not everyone has the hearing of a 24 year old. I am starting to get the feeling that this whole escapade between AE and Jay (and others) is turning into a "face-saving" exercise, rather than an objective evaluation.
Speaking of tone, how do you rate tone with S400 MKII vs Triangle Comete 40th stand mounts? as previous review and rave about Triangles tone. I own the Comete and wondering where they sit, cheers
To the guy s300 vs 400mk2 I had the s300mk 2 for several years. And I owned the s400 mk2 for about 3 weeks and not realy got the hours yet but. S400 is so much better, in everything..
Hello. Please recommend a speaker cable for Hegel H190 and Buchardt S400MK2. Thanks in advance. Sorry if I write with errors, I'm from a distant country).
Hey guys. please click the like button on the video if you enjoyed our blind test ! It took us a lot of effort and time to make this video so we would appreciate it ! Also we chose the ELAC this time because it was the most requested BUT like I said in the end of this video, we very much will try with something higher up in the price ranges later ! SUBSCRIBE for that !
FULL Blind A/B Test video: ruclips.net/video/-hwJeWcI6Hs/видео.html
Related Videos:
Buchardt S400 MKII: ruclips.net/video/PJRBMCA3FzI/видео.html
Elac Unifi Reference: ruclips.net/video/ScFTfEpvKDA/видео.html
denafrips thallo and hades stack: ruclips.net/video/F7m_nRvE17k/видео.html
0:00 Buchardt S400 MKII RECAP
0:47 Blind Test Setup
6:12 Setting Up the Blind Test
7:10 Buchardt S400 MKII VS ELAC Unifi Reference
16:53 Community Q&A
Yeah, I don't really think it's a fair comparison... The Buchardts are much pricier speakers. At least were I am the Buchardts are nearly three times the price of the Elacs. This would make more sense if in fact the Elacs were at least close to the Buchardts performance or price.
A fair comparison would be the Elac floorstander vs the Buchardt. Also, the Buchardt was designed to work better closer to the wall. The Elac wasn't...so, it appears that you gimped the Elac in terms of placement
@@farbschlachterei does the Iron come with the person who’s going to Iron my shirt for me?
@@wa2368 that would be interesting but wouldn’t call it “fair.” Floor stander vs bookshelf - not only is it logically harder to AB, each do their own things differently in soundstage, imaging and scale.
If you watched the video. I explain how that placement was a compromise between the two. So no, the placement wasn’t given to the buchardts
@@Jayiyagi Well, Buchardt did say their bookshelf is designed to be a substitute for a floorstander. So, put it up against the elac floorstander (which I still a whole lot cheaper than Buchardt) and let them put their money where their mouth is. Also, the elacs need more space to image (different design).. Test each speaker at the location it sounds bbest. What is your problem with both speakers performing their best in a test? Why deliberately gimp one?
Really enjoyed this video and inclusion of the Q&A for the 2nd half. It's kind of like you are having an informal conversation with us by answering a string of viewer comments. Maybe continue doing this 2nd half Q&A section in the comparison videos where it makes sense. It's super cool! Really fun to listen too your thoughts and enthusiasm.
Jay, when matching the loudness of the speakers instead of 1 kHz tone you should use the so-called "white noise". At least that's what they do in Harman's Subjective Evaluation Lab.
Agree on all points...and for low volume listening, I find Audyssey's Dynamic EQ the perfect solution for that. It will bump the highs and lows and get them sounding great when you need to play quiet. And, it's not a set amount, but adjusts based on volume level. I prefer using a neutral speaker like the Buchardt to have an accurate baseline to make these changes from, rather than a speaker that exaggerates things and can't be undone.
This is a fun, well produced video . . . thanks guys!
Thanks for your hard work Jay. Your approach combining a somewhat more scientiific approach mixed with practical listening tests is greatly appreciated. I think you strike a good balance. I really enjoy the guys at Audio Excellence Canada as well. They are so fun to listen to. I probably think there might be some differences in setup and approach and that they usually almost exclusively deal in very high-end (which I am sure you are accustomed to as well) might have something to do with the different outcome. Anyway, we don't have to agree on absolutely everything. Thanks again, looking forward to more fun content!
Ha they nailed it again, is it worth two times the price for me, yes besides the way Sean Nova and Jay describe there findings the Buchards look way more appealing to me, thanks again for re-visiting and doing this blind test which I highly appreciated, looking foreward seeing you both in front of the camera
Man, you're getting into a more and more relaxed vibe, like you're really expressing yourself so easily and clearly. Smooth!
Huh....he's always been like this. Have you seen the vids during covid lockdown? Chill af...
@@LIL-MAN-THE-OG That's my observation. My opinion based on my own subjective experience. I thought that's what this was all about...
Thanks for this. We need more blind testing of speakers by reviewers. I hope this will become a more regular feature on your channel.
Thanks ! We’ve done quite a few on this channel and I love doing them
I would like to add input on amp pairings with the S400. I am using the Gato Amp-150 which I had on pre-order when I was choosing between the S400 SE and the S400 MK2. Daniel at Buchardt really helped me making the decision and what tipped the scale towards the MK2 was the fact that one of the amps used while designing the speakers was in fact the Gato. Therefore, the match in my mind is perfect 👌
Do you mean that the MK2 is better than the MK1 SE?
Jay, it is the room! Your front wall covered by diffusers almost from floor to ceiling, that makes a huge improvement in sound, because my dedicated listening room's front wall covered by diffusers as yours from floor to ceiling(almost), also I have two corner bass traps(floor to ceiling). With them and without them makes a huge difference. Did Adrian's room have the room as yours? you should go to their store to listen.
Hi, a very good comparison! but I think that a better comparison will be to the ELAC Vela 403Bs .. I know you liked this Elac very much too .. If you have some time, let me know what you think about it. Another question: do you think the NAD M10 v2 and Elac Vela 403 are a good combination? what at this price you would strongly recommend?
Greetings from Poland
Thanks guys, I love this format so much Jay! This is one of your best vids Jay. More formats like this to come please.
Thanks for answering my questions Jay. Appriciated 🙂
Don't know the results, but just because another speaker might have caught up or something doesn't mean you over-hyped the Buchs. You gave them a genuine, honest review. You and however many other people...
They're just that good.
(Shaking the house with a pair of bookshelves? Wow...!)
Great comparison. Where would Polk R200 rank in comparison to the two?
I have a Unico Primo at 75 this is an outstanding integrated and if 75 watts would handle the 400s, might be an excellent match. One 12az7 in the pre section adds a little tub goodness
Amp recommended under 3k - Denon PMA-1600/1700 fantastic!!
Check a picture of the insides by the way.
Jay, I'd be very curious to know how you think the Tannoy Revolution XT-8F might compare/contrast/compete with the Buchardt. I ask since I know you already reviewed the Tannoy. Thanks!
Hi Jay. I’m glad you also revisited this. How would the Buchard S400mk2 compare with the Sonus Faber Sonetto two. Is it a fair comparison.? I AEs work but their I found it hard to understand their take on the Buchards.
Small correction, the S400 MK1 signature has higher quality parts than the standard MK2 😊
In my 6 months with the Buchs, I certainly found them to be a super jack of all trades with any genre, with vinyl and a good R2R. I could not speak to anything under 100w and discovered that regardless of different component synergy, a 150 - 200 watt amp will meet these speakers at the best possible starting point and bring out their best.
Agree, 200w at 4 ohms may be a minimum and you will be rewarded with great sound .
Not mentioned by Jay, but an amp based on the Hypex NCore 4 ohm 250W module fits the bill very well here. It's the one used in the Buchardt amp as well.
@@kirkaparty4143 I imagine you’re talking a solid state amp?
@@danielmartin7505 Yes. A good point for the clarification and as I only had solid state comparisons on this end.
Jay taking a step above Proud of
You my dude ! And dam it, they need to pay you for all the hard work you put in
All the editing and approach you come up with for the review
Great Job Jay Appricate all you do !
I have connected buchardt s400 mk1 to unison research s6 and I am in love🤗.
Really enjoyed the Q&A.
After it's all said and done...It's all about sound...returned these back for refund and had to pay Buchardt $100...they had no detail or character...finally found my end game after testing many speakers on my new Marantz 40n...the Dali Rubicon 2 is end game for me...best non tube stand mount set up for sound...simplicity at its best!!
Hi Jay. Awesome video!
Why don’t you compare the KEF R3 to the Buchardt s400 MKII
KEF are similar in value - I’d say much better value if you get KEF R3 now.
ELAc is also match for for the KEF R3 - similar tech in both speakers.
He did....in this video when he was answering people's comments.
Can you listen to Buchart’s at Audio Excellence? That is only way to reconcile their views with yours.
Perhaps I will !
Yeah, just take your Bucharts down the store and mystery solved.
@@wenc8796 ye. I will talk to Adrian. I don’t want to be rude and just intrude his store haha.
To many Bios reviews...review the Dali Rubicon 2 it's an END GAME! I first auditioned these Buchardt S400 MKll ...sent them back and was charged €100 for return...After auditioning so many speakers I found my END GAME- Dali Rubicon 2 , these have full sound stage and detail with plenty enough bass for now...maybe I'll try a sub in the future...these Dali's blow away even the Sonus Faber...
I actually auditioned many speakers in the local privately owned Hi-fi store...
Awesome comparison to see! Thanks dude.
So many comments regarding the wide differences in opinions between you and Audio Excellence; perhaps it’s driven by variations in the track lists and overall music preferences. The tunes you mentioned in your review are fairly laid back vocally oriented tracks, not fast paced jazz or classic rock. This could be accounting for the differences? But love your approach and effort in the blind comparisons.
Please review a hsu subwoofer! I'd love to see how they compare to a "music" based subwoofer, I think it would be an amazing hybrid system sub!
Would the Dynaudio Evoke 20‘s be a good speaker to compare next to the Buchardts? Similar price range for one thing…
Also would the Arcam SA30 pair well with the S400mkII‘s?
I have old Arcam FMJ A19 and Bouchardt S400MK2, it sounds like top end is too recesed. Now I´m using Kinki Studio EX-M1+ and its so much better, everything that I was missing from my old combo B&W 606 and Arcam is back and much better
Jay, What speaker do you prefer between to CSS 1TDX or S400 MKII paired with the Kinki integrated? Thank you for the great video content!
Hello Jay and thank you for the videos you make, always being objective.
How does the S400 Mk2 compare to the Dynaudio Heritage Special?
I speak in terms of musicality and rendering.
Thank you for your answer ✌️😁
A blind test with the Sony SSCS5 would be interesting?
Hi Jays! thanks for your review. In your opinion this Buchardt S400 MKII do a good pairing with Marantz pm7000n?
Great review. Have you compared these to the Perlisten S4B?
Excellent video thanks for your hard work 👍
I heard one reviewer mention the Elac needs a bit of volume to sound good. How is the Buchardt at a bit lower listening volume compared to the Elac? edit: answered in the video, awesome:)
Very well produced video. I enjoy watching it very much. I know Timberland is the sponsor 😁
You said “no” to the s400 with tube amps due to the lack of power, what about the R8 (45 watts linear)?
Cool, yet if they are giant killers, pls compare to a higher priced speaker. It's like saying a Porsche 911 is a giant killer, then racing it against a Ford Mustang. Let's see Buchardt S400 MKII slay a giant (Sonus Faber Amator)!
Absolutely!
Thanks for answering my question 💪🔥
Great video, Jay. Considering the prices, do you think supplementing Elacs with a quality Rel sub would overcome Bucchards sound quality? I am shopping for Elac unify ref and would like your opinion. Cheers!
you are right about having the loudspeakers at the same level, but you would never use a single tone (1khz) to do this. You need more of an average pink noise is the answer.
1khz is baseline and we also used white noise to fine adjust. Thanks !
That James Blake track is pretty damn good for testing bass. I always used it for headphones instead of speakers, though.
Why are people having bad experiences? My best guess is setup problems or equipment compatibility, not Buchardt's quality control.
After Jay's crew at Audio Ex had a similar video, I had a feeling he was gonna be following up with his own
Thanks for revisiting the S400 MKIIs Jay! A lot of good information here since I've been considering pulling the trigger on a pair. But if they don't pair well with tubes can you suggest any alternative speakers that a tube amp could drive well that would offer similar performance to the Buchardts?
Tektons easily come to mind haha. Pendragon or double impact or 2-10 but.. you need the space. Hard to get Buchardts extension and sound in a bookshelf let alone with one thats sensitive enough for tubes
@@Jayiyagi Awesome! I'll look into it. That's again!
Triangle Genese Trio speakers paired with the 10watt Luxman SQ-N150 tube integrated amp is a synergistic pairing in my room. Sean at Zero Fidelity compared the Trios to the Buchardt S400 MK 1's...
The Genese Trios have good bass and also sound great at low listening levels.
@@irisfinchmusic Agree the Genese Trios goes well with tubes though I find them a little laid back. The tube amp I used was the Willsenton R8 with upgraded tubes , nice match.
Get the MKII's and a different amp...don't limit yourself based on an amp you have
Hey Jay,
How about an a/b blind test for the Totem Tribe vs the KLH model 5, or at least a comparison of the two.
How much does your setup of Luxman+Denafrips cost? Can you try both speakers with a reasonably priced amp, like the Rotel 1572 or Hegel 120?
Hey Jay I liked your video, but maybe a better comparison are from your best speaker category like the Elac Vela's that would be a great review
Hi at first I want to apologise about (maybe) stupid question but I am absolute new in this hobby. Last few months i have spent a lot of money and i have made a lot mistakes.
So i have s400 mk2 and I wanted to get terminator + amp, but in forums told me that I will not hear any difference between terminator and Denafrips Pontus II , Venus II, and terminator + with Buchardt s400 mk2 (or very almost none). You have heard speakers and amps, and you have very high opinion about them. What do you think?
p.s.1 I will appreciate if you answer.
p.s.2 every one is welcome to give their feedback, I will appreciate it.
Thanks for this video! I wish you would mention the Vela 403 at least from time to time. It is a 2k speaker too.
Good review Jay. One thing you have to remember though is the boutique caps, inductors and resistors in the Buchardt speakers. Wonder how would the Elacs would fair if the X-over components were upgraded? Wish I had a pair as I have done that kind of work with many other speakers. Is soundstage and imaging comparable between the two?
That’s a cool idea. I might try that
Did you do them vs the KLH model 5s. That would be a more worthy comparison.
Awesome video!
No you didn't. I've listened to a ton of speakers, it's like my hobby. The only speaker I've seen smoke these are the B&W 802 D4 and they are a little more expensive. I bought a pair of these after watching your review and many others. Nothing is close in my opinion. I love these and I'm only powering them with a NAD C 700 and they sound insane. What they can do with female vocals is incredible.
I've seen some other people's opinions on RUclips downplaying their impressiveness and believe they are lying or losing their hearing.
Calling someone a liar just because they dont like what you like is just being plain ignorant. I didnt like how the S400MKII sounded like compared to other speakers and I can hear till 15.5khz on my right ear and 14.5khz on my left.
That's wonderful, however, all in your own subjective opinion and taste. Lying and hearing loss? C'mon dude, don't be like that. 😄
Hi, I know I am late. Buchardt s400 mk2 vs Tekton lore. Which is best for sub $2000? Thanks
Great review. Always freak out when I see the Buchardt's placed with the tweeter "upside-down"! 😆 You should get some real music though. Everyone has heard Adele and might know what you're talking about if you said I heard this or that. Back in my day we could trust speaker reviews to use a popular piece of classical music (Beethoven, Mozart...) for reference! 😉
Haha idk man. I think my music choices are spectacular for testing speakers and enjoyment in general. Have had many ppl tell me that and some manufacturers even adapted some of my list for their testings … so… weird flex 💪
Thank you Jay. What is your opinion the main difference between UB52 and UBR62?
s400 mark ii sound very good with my Naim 202/200DR and Mcintosh MA6900
Good question from Hector about the Tekton lore reference and Buchardt S400 MK II I like them both which makes it hard to choose, maybe I should take them both
Interesting video. Thanks. I was curious about your comment that bookshelf speakers can do some things better than floorstanders. Have you talked about this in another video, or could you give a few examples?
I think I recall your review of the mytek brooklyn amp was really dynamic do you consider it to be a good match with the my 2’s
Thanks john
it's your channel. but a fair comparison is to compare a speaker in the same price range. And you said it was a giant killer so you should compare it to a much more expensive speaker. My opinion, the difference in opinion between you and Audio Excellence is the Room. Audiophiles love spend on audio equipment but wont spend on room treatment or don't know how to implement it. The fact is room is major % of the sound.And different speakers favor a particular room. And that being said you will get the best out of a speaker until it is in a properly treated room.#2 synergy you took the time to see what equipment played nice with these speakers. Or you had the equipment on hand that had synergy and they didn't.
Hey Gene. Check the pinned comment to answer your concerns. Thanks !
Hey Jay , thanks for the great video! I was ready to pull the trigger on the MK2, but having Hegel H120 and room limitations (2 - 2.5 meters listening distance) I will skip them.
Can you please advise pairing the h120 with Dynaudio?
I am looking for evoke 20 (not sure you have heard them) and Special 40 , that you reviewed 2 years back .
How they compare to the MK2 ?
(Don't take into account diff prices)
Which one you'd think is better at low volumes?
Thanks a ton.
I’m auditioning both speakers right now.
I agree with most points given to the Buchardt s400 mk2. But I find that the imaging on the elac to be superior by a long shot. Is this because of the amp I am using (audiolab7000a)? or speaker placement maybe?
On a song like intergalactic by the beasty boys the imaging and the different instruments sounding like they are coming from all over the stage from the elacs shocked me and made the song so interesting to listen to. On the Buchardts they were decent but I feel like the elacs were way better
get elacs then. it’s not the amp but if comparing u gotta put both speakers is same spots
@@chinmeyswayI think they should only grab the Elacs if imaging is that much more important to them. They mentioned that the S400 is better in most aspects, so it depends on what value they place in each aspect of the sound production.
Hey Jay, I wonder if you ever listened to the Sony's SS-G3 speakers? They are from what seems to be 1977s according to some stuff I found online (very few things online for these). If you did, what did you think of them? Everyone seems to agree they are very good, but I don't have an amp or anything to power these babies up right now and I don't have anything hi-fi to compare them to.
Wouldn't Elac Vela's or Solano's be a fairer comparison, being nearer that price range ?
I am guessing that the MW is the SB16PFCR25, don't think it's the more expensive SB17NRX2C35, can you confirm?
Honest question: should you level match with 1kHz signal or some kind of white noise? Thanks!
We started with 1khz as base and fine adjusted using white noise
Would Dynaudio Countour 20 be a step up from the S400? Also, Rega Aethos is MAGICAL with S400 MK1 ❤️
Where you wrong on Jbl 590? We hopefully will find out in your future review.
I'm contemplating buying a set of the MKII's to pair with my Willsenton R8. Has anyone tried this combo?
British Audiophile did and said it was great
We need to see you do the blindfolded (real good blindfold) listening tests and hear your immediate review with no video splicing. This summary at the end of all testing is bogus.
What happens when placed upside down?
Hello. Please tell me if it makes sense to change Elac BS283 to BUCHARDT S400MK2 ??? Thank you in advance
A comparison to the Sonus Faber Sonetta II would be interesting.
So - interesting that how Jay heard the Sonetto II as compared to the S400II is exactly the polar opposite of how we at AE heard it. And there is no sub-bass on either of these speakers.
@@vilipmak3973 hey Vilip. Correction; these do have sub bass (defined as under 60hz) according to measurements and my listening tests.
-3 dB from the Buchardts, in my room, is 30 Hz.
@@Jayiyagi We define sub bass as below 20 Hz.
@@vilipmak3973 You are defining Infrasound. (sound below 20hz) Sub Bass is almost unanimously defined as below 60-70hz. (google it)
According to your definition... You are right... you shouldn't hear/feel any sub bass on these or much of any other speakers when playing "music" because as you may know... music does not contain frequencies down that low let alone below 20hz...unless you are listening to pipe organ (which I know you do not).
Any viewers happen to pair these with Bryston amplification? Opinions?
This is one of your best, thanks, how about comparing these to klh model 5 , and wharfdale Linton, just some ideas.
All the best 👍
Would love to hear what the ten notes were to select between the two speakers? Jay, you said you gave 9/10 for the Buchardt but for what criteria did you vote exactly? Love your vids! Beware of the shirt-sponsors...🙂
Hi Jay! Question for you...Would you consider the Parasound P6 preamp and the 21+ amp to be a good match to drive those Buchardt speaker? Or would the Denafrips setup; as stated/shown in your video, still be the better choice? Thanks!
I personally would prefer the denafrips over parasound for the buchardts
Jay, did you get a chance to try the MKII with the Decware ZMA?
do you think I could get away with driving the Buchardt S400 MKII with a Cary audio 300SLI. It is a 15watts 300B single ended amp. It does have 4 ohm tap on the speaker outputs. I play an avg. of 80db about 7 feet from my speakers now My speaker now is 2way 5.5 woofer a ribbon tweeter. there 86 db eff.
Hi Jay, I have the Hegel H390, and I love it. I have the Dynaudio contour 20i and I'm not happy. How do you think KLH Model 5 will pair well with the Hegel? Or what speakers would you recommend since you are familiar woth the Hegel amps? Thanks
Klh model 5 might be a good match with the hegel. Other suggestions with hegel would be KEF R3, KEF ls50 meta, more KEF and magnepans
Yes… kef and hegel is a great synergistic match
How do the S400 Mark II sound with Buchardt’s own integrated amp the I150?
Is this video sponsored by Timberland? No! But it should be :p
how do you think the buchardts would pair with the Vincent sv-237mk2?
what a great video. hey Jay I own a pair of Buchardt s400's Mkii and I'm waiting on a pair of model 5's to arrive. I've been powering the s400's with a kinki exm-1 but I've been curious about that denafrips combo you keep mentioning. will I've been gaining anything from going to the denafrips combo? or will it be almost a toss up?
I like the good extension and grip the Kninki brings to the s400's, specially with Sparkos op amps.
It will be a toss up. Kinki is a great combo as well. It will be different but not necessary “better”
@@Jayiyagi thanks for the reply, I may save that money 💰💰💰. Love what you're doing with your channel. Take it easy Jay!
You will love the model 5’s. I prefer them much more than the mk 2’s. Using Pass 150.5, Ayre K-5xeMP, and Pontus (and KEF sub).
Which speakers would do great with H120 + SVS SB-2000 Pro for all around music genres and prefered for not loud listening? thx :)
I hope that Audio Excellence considers this a challenge!
Given the price difference between the two speakers, (about $900 USD) a subwoofer should have been added to the Elac for a fair comparison. Also, speakers other than 2-way bookshelf models should be considered, such as floor-standers, and even a 3-way speaker such as KLH 5, especially since the cost of stands has to be included for the bookshelf models. The Buchardt stands are about $475 USD.
Another concern I have is that it is obvious, mostly because of the S400 passive radiator, that the Buchardt has the best deep bass. But not all music has deep bass, unless one assumes that the purpose of buying hi-fi gear it to listen to demo tracks, and not to listen to great music. Also, you should get some older people (maybe about 50+ years of age) to test them, since not everyone has the hearing of a 24 year old.
I am starting to get the feeling that this whole escapade between AE and Jay (and others) is turning into a "face-saving" exercise, rather than an objective evaluation.
A subwoofer should be added to all systems.
Is it unfair to compare s400 MK2 vs elac ufr52? They are similar priced. Perhaps elac is cheaper since you don't need to buy stands
Speaking of tone, how do you rate tone with S400 MKII vs Triangle Comete 40th stand mounts? as previous review and rave about Triangles tone. I own the Comete and wondering where they sit, cheers
The Comète has a rougher frequency response, so will be less natural sounding
To the guy s300 vs 400mk2
I had the s300mk 2 for several years.
And I owned the s400 mk2 for about 3 weeks and not realy got the hours yet but.
S400 is so much better, in everything..
i wonder how these buchard will compare to the zu audio omen?
Hello. Please recommend a speaker cable for Hegel H190 and Buchardt S400MK2. Thanks in advance. Sorry if I write with errors, I'm from a distant country).