I was remis when I didn't thank both Ron from New Record Day and Safe and Sound for making this happen. Without those two I wouldn't have had this opportunity. Check out www.safeandsoundhq.com for any of your hifi needs.
Great review Randy. People have commented you’ve lost your cheapness. I don’t think reviewing one high end product you’ve admired for years cancels your hundred or so cheap audio videos. Do what you want.
Thanks, brother. I've said it in other comments that out of more than 200 videos 3 have been $999 or higher. That's les that 1.5%. Pretty good average. And frankly I'd challenge anyone to find another youtuber that has listened and reviewed more products under $600 in the last two years. I've done that in 6 months.
@@therealboofighter Some used early JBL Eons would be comparable in efficiency and low cost, as a comparison, but Randy reviews new stuff? The Home Theatre bloggers were blown away by using high efficiency, modestly priced Behringer PA speakers as L+C+R (and surrounds). Not unlike the efficiency of some PA style Cerwin Vega home speaker towers a while back.
I have a pair of Klipsch Forte's that I got back in '86 or '88 or sometime around them. I fell in love with them when I heard them and had to. get them. I've had them for 30+ years and they are still going strong. They are very efficient and the sound is fantastic. I paid around $1,100 for them back then and I just saw that the latest version (which I don't think look quite as good as mine) are going for $4,998/pair. WOW. Glad mine are still going strong.
Original owner of a pair of Heresy II raw birch. Paid $799 CAD. If I wanted to sell the I could get the same or more.Not many other makers could say the same.
I own the Heresy IVs. I had the opportunity to audition them against some other serious speakers. I didn’t imagine that I would buy them after saving up for high end speakers for a while. They were simply better. I have them powered by Conrad Johnson tube gear. It’s really just perfect.
@@royalway12 man I would just love to have a good opinion for you, but my gear is just so far away from what you have I don’t think my opinion will help you at all. My set up is for audio only. It’s two channel. My gear is tube gear, both pre and power amp. Klipsch is known for pairing optimally with tubes. I worry with your Marantz that you’re using it for audio and HT. For HT you might want crazy bass that the IVs may struggle with. If you’re just looking for audio and two channel, I recommend these.
A lot of people don’t take into account what houses were like when Paul Klipsch designed his line of horn loaded speakers. Most homes had rooms with convenient corners - very few open concept houses around then - and in the early 60s carpet was kind of the new thing with many people moving away from hardwood floors. The rooms these speakers are placed in makes a huge difference in how they sound (as of course it does with every other speaker).
I got my pair of Heresy III's slightly used for $1,200 in Black. Coupled with a new Willsenton R8 with the upgraded L34's for $1,100K, I think I hit a cheapguy home run. I use an old 15" Definitive Technology sub for the missing octave down low. If you have spent many hours in small venues clubs listening to live music, the Heresy's may be for you.
Used gear is the way to go. Tried and tested, broke in, and leaves you money for more gear. You can always upgrade to new drivers for the horns and get a brand new sound. But they won't be broken in.
@@waterlife.1905 I agree that used gear is the way to go, i've made some amazing deals over the years and saved myself tons although i'm skeptical about sound changing with use because why does the sound only ever get better? Makes no sense to me along with the fact there's never been a shred of data to prove it's real
Hey Randy - thanks for this - it may be the best review of these speakers I've seen to date! I've owned a pair (in Black Ash, BTW - yes, there are reasons "someone would buy these in black"... :) ) Anyway, my experience has been the same as yours - I thought I'd have to return them when I first listened to them, but they just kept getting better with every listening session, and after 2 months, they just keep getting better! You described them well - they're just "different", and yes, they are special! They make music sound the way I like it - I love 'em!! You should definitely get a pair...
Thanks and I will probably have a pair someday. right now any extra cash is going to buying things to review for the viewers and less about what I personally want. My recent DIY speakers have been my to for personal listening.
@Nicholas break in is a hoax. it makes no sense at all, that degradation of tiny mechanical parts will a) always better the sound of a speaker and b) change the sound at all in a humanly perceivable way.
That's a really honest review, Randy. It was interesting to see you actually struggle to have words to say. I've had a similar experience before as well when experiencing open baffle for the first time, and I'm honestly still trying to wrap my head around it..
If you wrap your head around the open baffle then it will be enclosed and no longer be 'open' and your baffled-ness experience will go away defeating the whole purpose and point of the open 'BAFFLE'. If you are not baffled by an open baffle speaker then it's not baffling hard enough and does not qualify as such...it's back to the open drawing board for that company's R&D.
I'm a big fan of Klipsch (Heresy, Cornwall and Klipschorn) and HLCD speakers in general, but not having an abundance of disposable income, I looked for lesser expensive alternatives. My favorite was found in the DIY "Econowave" speaker. It uses a 12" prosound midbass and 1" horn-loaded compression driver with waveguide. Build cost for the pair is roughly $500. I doubt anything in the retail market costing double that can compete.
I bought my H3s about 6 years ago. $500 used, but well cared for and even had the original boxes. I love these speakers! The clarity is amazing. I had to upgrade my turntable after getting these because I could hear all the extra noise coming through the needle. I too have the Onkyo TX 686 abd they sound excellent at regular volumes. The amp does start clipping when I turn it up high. Being a bass player I much prefer the type of tight bass sounds that I get from these speakers. And they pair well with my subwoofer. Yes I ride Harleys too.
Had mine for over a year now and loving these things. They are midrange machines that when paired with a good sub sound amazing. Willsenton r8 makes for a good match. Part of the family now.
New to your channel so I don’t know what speakers you have listened to. But it sounds like you have discovered what turns people into audiophiles. That discovery of a great soundstage. Not all that conman in “cheap hifi”
I have my H4s for nearly a year now. I love them, I bought recently a REL 9Ti sub for them and now this can really be the last rig in your life. I spend few days to set it up but now everything has more body and authority. Nothing from the great midrange and highs is lost, and actually they sound even better. Eg well mixed drums are super realistic. Strongly recommend a sub for these (as actually for all spekaers), blend it in properly and you will not stop listening.
Thanks for the Heresy review. I’ve had my Heresy’s since the early 80s. I bought them unfinished in raw birch, stained them with a walnut and tongue oil. Mine are non ported with the older screw-on terminals. I also bought the optional slant risers. I’m powering them with 2 channel Yamaha RX 397 receiver, Sony direct drive turntable and Logitech Bluetooth adapter to play from my iPhone. To my 73 year old ears, the Heresy’s still kick ass!
Hi Randy, love the channel sir! I own these and Klipschorn cornerhorns, it only gets better the further up you go lol. The 3d thing is absolutely true with horn speakers. That is the lack of distortion at work. Mathematically speaking, distortion has a 1:1 relationship to efficiency. Less speaker movement. The higher the efficiency, the lesser amount of distortion. With 99 db, you hear the little details, the minute differences in volume of the mix which translates to depth. Love horns, nothing like them when done right. Good review sir, spot on.
Love my Heresy IV! I agree with what you said they are different, interesting and special. Thanks for your review. I bought from Ron (Safe and Sound) and he was great.
This is the best Klipsch Heresy 4 review I have seen online. Thank you? I have. A pair of Heresy IV speakers and can say they take about one thousand hours of playing to fully break in. Same goes for their RP 600M II speakersp that I own And they are absolutely incredible if you can space them correctly. One foot from the wall and 7 and a 1/2 feet apart and 7 feet away from you.That may sound perfect. The Heresy's also sound good with a lot more thump and way more volume. With the volume only halfway up, you will get a visit from the police if you play 'em very long., something the RP600,s won"t do. The old Klipsch add, "Pissing off neighbors since 1946" still holds true today. And it's the first time I ever heard it and it's true. Thank you for the comparison.,"klipsch is the Harly-Davidson of speakers" and I couldn't agree more, just ask my neighbors. And yes, mine are black!
Great review Randy, I really liked your comparison to Harley-Davidson. I think that Klipsch tweaks the Heritage line to stay current, but never loses the vision that Paul W. Klipsch started with. Glad you enjoyed your time with them.
Paired with a good tube amplifier, in my case a Line Magnetic 211 iA, the Heresy IV is an absolute dream team. This plastic openness and transparency in the mid-high range is unique. I like listening to live recordings, you can literally reach into the stage. The audiophile virtues such as resolution, localization and spatiality are also at a very high level with the Heresy IV. Other loudspeakers, even high-quality ones, often bored me relatively quickly, but this is completely different with the Heresy IV, these are captivating and you feel like you are right in front of the stage.
I enjoyed your review, cheapaudioman. You offer a different and unique angle apart from other reviews on the Klipsch Heresy IVs that I've listened to. At the end of the review, I felt trust in your judgement of these speakers. You are honest and truthful.
I just picked up Heresy IIIs for $750 second hand in very good condition and have them paired with my dual svs sb1000 and I am in love. I only have them powered by a denon AVR right now, but they are worlds better than my rp600ms that got moved to surround duty.
I own the MK IVs and all I have to say is that they're extremely fussy and will sound like different speakers depending on the room and especially with what type of amp you pair them with. I've tried a number of amps and when it's good it's sublime and when it's bad it's..."interesting" to borrow from your review!
@@dougg1075 Yes, cheap is relative. For me, "cheap" means of shoddy, careless workmanship, substandard materials, etc. Inexpensive, on the other hand, means value regardless of actual money paid.
@@robk5745 so true, this guy is a content making beast it's no suprise he ran out of cheap products to talk about and ended up making connections with people who are into higher end audio who can borrow him stuff to review. Cheapaudioman FTW
I have been on the HiFi merry go round for years , looking for “ refined” sound and I have all the usual suspects in speakers but found myself bored with the hobby, took a chance on the Heresy IVs and I haven’t had this much fun in the hobby since I started. Waiting on my Wilsenton R8 to go with them now. I do have a bad A Sub connected also, I’m done for a long time. I’ll keep these forever and if I get another set, it will be Cornwalls.
Greatest home audio I've heard was Klipsch Kornerhorns with a LaScala center driven by Crown (1975). My acoustics prof invited the class to his home to hear the system in the room he designed & built for them! Amazing. The next "different" speaker has got to be Magnepan. Great review, Randy.
Good friend of mine drove LaScalas with Crown IC and D150 electronics. All of that equipment was pretty awesome to a 22 year old in 1975. Back then, Crown was really high end. People that listen to these professional Crown amps today, don’t know they used to be highly desirable for personal use.
I come to cheap audio man because he is the man. A man that drinks coffee and sounds like a restless father that looks forward to closing his eyes and listening to the right tracking feeding the soul, escaping reality. I also the same as cheap audio man. Thank you for this channel I throughly enjoy you reviews.
Especially if you plan to keep exploring tube amps would love to see you explore some other high efficiency speakers. Tekton Lore or Zu Omen Dirty Weekend come to mind.
@@marks291 I am interested in speakers from tekton as well. I want something to replace my monoprice monolith mm3's. Something that could work nearfield but also can sorta fill a 20 by 15 room up. Mainly be used as I sit in front of my pc but also need to be able to handle being cranked up for workouts/deadlifts in the same room. Go down to 40hz with authority. Mainly metalcore/deathcore/death metal. Something that can handle the bass drops. I love these little mm3's but the bass gets real FARTY when it is deep and moderate to loud volumes. Do not want to add a sub to this setup or area. Max amount spent between the speakers and amp, 800$.
One of the first rules of box design is that the more sensitivity you want, the more bass extension you give up. So, none of the big Klipsch speakers go really low. Even the K'horns only go down to around 35-40hz.
@@crazymetallian Forte II are better than I, but what they need is a better tweeter and crossover like the forte III/IV. The forte I and II used a crappy polymer tweeter that broke up and just sounded nasty.
What a FUCKING GREAT review randy !!!!! As a Klipsch FAN for 35 years, And owning SEVERAL different models, I think you hit the nail right on the head with these !!! Klipsch ARE an Aquired taste, and for those who like a LIVE sound ...MANY people have a LOVE/HATE relationship with Klipsch in general.. As a musician, I LOVE EM !!!!! THE HARLEY DAVIDSON of speakers ..LOL...AWESOME.
Good honest review. For years I’ve had 1978 Heresy’s, with the Crites upgrades, on my main system. Always wondered how they would stack up against a newer version. Got a chance last week. Hauled mine down the street. Put them on a neighbor’s high end theater system with VI’s. Didn’t do blind testing, just ran the same tracks on Tidal twice. Everything is subjective, but both of us agree the differences are minor. Slightly better low end on the VI, which is to be expected with the reworked x-over and bass port.
The Reisong amp rolls off at around 4K, which makes it a wonderful choice any high-efficiency speaker with a treble-heavy response curve. I run mine into Klipsch RB 61 IIs on stands at my computer desk, and I can listen to them for hours at a time. The Reisong paired with Klipsch bookshelf speakers is a match made in Heaven.
Love my Zu DW’s with upgraded XO. Latest generation build as of 2021. Really dynamic and easy going. Like the Klipsch, these are high sensitivity which means slightly thinner bass. I have mine paired with a custom 15” sub.
I've found a used pair for $800. But they don't look exactly like the ones your showing. The drivers mount from the inside, the pair behind you they mount from the front. I haven't see these in person but the pics show some wear but look like there in good condition . I'm assuming there old. If they sound ok, should I buy these asap before there gone?
I bought my Heresy 4s new a year ago. I sold them in Oct. In my main room, I just never felt a connection. I missed the scale of my Maggie 1.7s. The 1.7s are back in my room. In my basement set-up, the Heresies sounded much better. However, I couldn't justify $3k speakers in my budget basement system. Oh well. Anyway, I really like your content.
Thanks for this review! I'm a Klipsch man myself (Cornwalls). If you really love them, make it happen! Look for a vintage pair on Craigslist and put in new capacitors... Before the Cornwalls I had KG4s which weren't expensive but had a lot of the same qualities.
I bought a pair of Klipsch Heresy speakers in 1980 that I still own to this day. A lot of people don't like their sound because of their harshness (bright sound). The amp/receiver that you use makes a huge difference. Over the years they have been hooked up to several amps/receivers of different brands. They definitely sound better on older equipment. The end game for me as far what they sound the best with is a Marantz 1090 integrated amp that I found at a thrift store about 20 years ago for $30. Had to have the caps replaced which was about $100. I don't know what it is about the Marantz but they sound incredible.
I think the Harley reference is perfect for these speakers. Are there better motorcycles, possibly but there's something special about Harley and Indian that you just don't get with Yamaha or Honda. Which the same goes for the Klipsch Hersey speakers just something special. Great Review Randy!
I'm 64 so there's not that much left of "tomorrow". I have a pair of the Heresys IV just like you're showing here. I paid retail for them. I also have a pair of Altec Lansing Model 5. I paid $75 for the pair. Back in 1978 I was a soldier in West Germany on my way to the PX to buy a pair of Heresys. Before I was able to pull out my wallet I saw the vender hooking up a pair of Altec Lansing Model 9 series II. When I heard them I fell in love. I left the Klipschs on the showroom floor and went home with the Altecs. If you ever run into a pair of them (Model 9 or model 5), buy them, or at least listen to them.
Great review! I listened to a pair while in the Army back in the 80's. The "knock" on these has always been how they handled vocals. They've gotten much better since then but did the vocals sound like the singers were singing inside of a tunnel?
Thanks. I am debating this speaker, unless I can get the Forte IV used at lower price. I know of the limitations of Klipsch and what I will be giving up on more audiophile brands, but I don't know, there's something about the Heritage line that just pulls me in, especially those Forte's. I am due for a second demo on the Hersey because the first was eh, I couldn't get my head around the sound coming from that low, additionally, I heard the Forte side by side and that totally did me in, so this time I'm just demoing the Hersey. How did you feel with them on stands? Were the stand too angled? I heard the better quality power you feed them the better presentation you get, and one reviewer said they love class A. Have you tried this? Meanwhile, it's either go for the Hersey or save up for the Forte and get some other speaker now, whatever that may be. Peace.
Randy, this is an important video - this is a horn speaker, and they only really do efficiency well. Back in the day, when these were a bit over $1000 - it was the Snell Acoustics Type E/II that I took home. And that was after listening to at least 12 or 15 other speakers, seriously. Did you try them toed in, or straight ahead? I love the *idea* of these speakers - but they leave me cold.
@@cheapaudioman Thanks - that's the thing about horns; they aim as much of the acoustic energy in one direction as possible. So, this means you have to be close to on axis to hear the highs; since highs are directional.
So glad you finally got to give these a listen. Please please please try this with a good subwoofer. It’s amazing how different speaker can sound who when you fill the lower octaves. The speaker was originally designed to be a center speaker so it needs support down low. Anyhow hope you get to try them with a sub before you send them off.
@James Fisher room accoustics don't give a crap about the price you paid for speakers my friend. The fact is that in most rooms you get better and more even bass NOT at the location of your main LR speakers, even if they CAN play down to 20hz. I'd also rather always give my mains more headroom for dynamics by freeing them and my amp of the frequencies that are most demanding.
A problem with Classic Klipsch is that you will hear things due to the 96-104db horn efficiency, that other 85-92db conical speakers cannot reveal. It's a double edged sword. At 96db it's already TWICE as loud as that 92db speaker and 4x as loud as the 85db one at 1 watt per Meter. Most conical speakers are 88-90db. At 104db.....the neighbors are calling the Police(No not the Band, unless you got really cool neighbors. XD 😄). So it may come across as "the speakers are bad" but the truth is the recording and/or your system has problems and/or are creating noise/things that Klipsch amplifies and reveals. I posted previously how I muted a receiver and I could still hear the program out the speakers, at first I thought the mute circuit was broken, they are that efficient. Also they all (the bigger ones especially Chorus, Fortes, Klipschorns)seem to do better in larger (ceiling) rooms and spaced out further apart than in a typical
I agree wholeheartedly with your findings!!! I cannot help but also hearing the huge box. I wanted to like them so much. Still need a sub for that lower octave:(
I drove 3 hours to buy a pair of heresy 1 and thought I'd be done with speakers. 2 hours later they were listed on marketplace again. The horns made my ears bleed and I was underwhelmed. I hooked my large advents back up and was much more happy.
Picked up Klipsch KG4s on Friday with the Crites Tweeter upgrade already installed…$300. I’ve never heard a Heresy, but folks say this beats it…no matter the version. Just wow, thanks for the SVS sound base review; they pair very well. Listening to the Cambridge Audio Speaker Test play list on Qobuz…highly recommend it. I’ve never heard guitar riffs sound so real, female vocals, the bass on kick drums (you can hear the secondary reverberation like when you play them)…SVS ultras had separation, but on KG4s the guitars sound like they’re coming from different amps…and it follows you into the kitchen ha ha. They “center” but on a soundstage that spreads from speaker to speaker. SVS the vocals would be a tight circle up and down a perfect center…my entire wall sounds like it’s the speaker and not in a mushy way. Ultimate, ultimate bang for the buck. Movies are good too, dialogue is clear, very theatrical and “sparkly”…not through the sound base though (maybe the optical input…might try a separate DAC and see if there’s a difference).
I had a set of KG4 with same upgrade last year for $375 and I picked up a set of Heresy 2 for $400 early this year. I must say, the Heresy needs a sub but the mid-range and sound stage is much better. Both are in perfect condition and I have a hard time deciding which set to keep or keep both....
@@ultraAsianman I’m in a condo, so the KG4s give me a bit of low end that I can’t get otherwise. But…I’ve paired them with a KV3 center and a pair of KG2.5s for rears. Added the Tweeter upgrade to the center and very impressed. Use it for 2.0 music and TV in 5.1.
Enjoyed the review. It seems that almost every reviewer really finds a lot to like about these speakers, even if it isn't their favorite. Not sure I would ever spend 3K for a pair of speakers, but I would like to hear these someday. I have a pair of Zu Audio Dirty Weekend speakers ($1K), and they are the best sounding speakers I have ever heard. If you get a chance to hear some Zu speakers check them out.
I setup a system that had Klipsch LaScala's (96db)and when I muted the JVC Receiver you could STILL hear the program coming out of the speakers(like someone talking loudly on the other end on a smart phone where you can hear it from feet away). I thought the receiver muting circuit was damaged until I realized *the speaker is so efficient* it was able to amplify the leakage current to where it was audible.
I think your generous in your assessment of bass. While I appreciate accuracy and speed in the bass the heresey don't have the reach leaving me unsatisfied. If you gut one they don't appear built well with minimal bracing and odd cabinet resonance. I have had heresey II speaker for 20 years now and they just leave me unsatisfied. They sound better overall at ear bleeding volumes. And it's not my amp. I am driving them with a luxman pre and power amp which sounds amazing with my other speakers. For 3 grand klipsch should up their game on drivers and overall build quality in my opinion.
What about JBL 4367? vs Klipsch Cornwall IV playing: Song: Moonlight Serenade by Diana Panton. On this song only, as I haven't heard the JBL's on anything else yet, I prefer the 2-way JBL's over the Klipsch. Your thoughts Please. Enjoyed this video. Thanks
i was at an audio show, and between these, the fortes and the La Scala, i think the Herasys were the most fun experience to listen to.... La Scala is amazing but is a very dry sound... almost like a peavy pro speaker (but better in every way)
Randy, I am a true believer in one concept: A person's brain will adapt to the speaker you are listening to. It will become an acquired taste, much like that developed for wines, beers, or coffee. I have listened to many speakers that seemed to get better the longer I listened to them. In fact, what was likely happening, was my brain was adapting to the sound and pulling the most out of what it was hearing. This phenomenon in perception concerning the ears, eyes, and sense of taste, with the brain adapting, has been proven many times through experimentation. When the brain is hit with something new, it does it's best to normalize that sensation and perfect it. This happens with sound through cochlear implants, eyesight with new prescriptions, and taste when we try new cultural foods (which we hate at first).
Just when I didn’t think I could love the vibe of this channel anymore than I already do, “audiophile trees” “they dont RESINate”`. Duck off thats incredible.
Nice review of these speakers. I own an updated Heresy 2, and these seem to share the same sound. Musical tastes will influence whether someone enjoys these speakers - great for blues, but pretty “meh” if your preferences are something like the “Brandenburg Concertos”.
Like somebody mentioned these speakers will be loved by listeners ( like me) who have spent many hours in small venues clubs listening to live music because thats exactly what they sound like, A live show. Very real, engaging , intimate , big sound ( think muscle car ) They are very truthful sounding/ less warm and comforting which may turn off some. They are very , very fun if you love live club shows of mixed genre's or heavy vocals. No rap or pop. If you want absolute perfection imaging these may not be for you. Regardless of what anyone says , unless you've did A/B side by side comparison ,these Klipsch compression drivers NEED break-in . They also LOVE tubes ! I'm using SS with tube pre.
Randy, I have a pair of these. They are connected to a vintage Nakamichi PA-7 (200W x 2 @ 8 Ohms) amp. That much power into speakers that efficient can get much louder than I can stand. But I don't care.
The sensitivity of these speakers is close ti 100db I think. The tiniest tube amps will drive them well. I think thats a pretty good plus for the tube heads - the Dekware amp with about 3 wpc works really well with these type speakers
Love all your videos- I suggest an LP or two for jazz: the newest Blue Note Classic Vinyl reissues: Dizzy Reese. Another is Little Johnny C. These sound FANTASTIC. Would be great to use as test LPs. Another one is a Tone Poet reissue: Wayne Shorter ETC. AMAZING especially the drumming.
Hey Randy, loving your channel. I'm a fellow metal fan and wondering your thoughts on how well you think these will play all those 80s metal albums which might not have been recorded brilliantly (some of that awesome German thrash for example!). I ask because you mention in your review that they play some things well and other things just "OK".... thanks and keep doing what you're doing!
Great review Randy. I’d already decided I could never live with these even if I was rich. Between you and Ron just confirmed it. I love the soundstage I get from bookshelf monitors to ever give it up. I’m still in awe of the Elac Uni 52’s. Best sound I’ve ever had. Saving up for the GR Research. 👍
Glad you did this review even though Heresy’s are anything but cheap. To do credible cheap reviews it is incumbent that you let us know what you think of the stuff that ain’t cheap. Looking forward to more of the same. I would also be interested in a review of several cheap amps compared while using inexpensive speaker systems and then the same comparison using Heresy’s or other speakers capable of revealing flaws in cheaper equipment. By the way, what amplifier/amplifiers did you use during this review?
vista audio spark which I consider actually the best amp I have from a clarity standpoint. The reisong A10, and the emotiva a300. not expensive by any standards for most. I should have put them on my Anthem Integrated 225 but I needed to get these back. I think a fuller and more lush amp would pair nicely with these but I enjoyed them with the amps I used.
Try the Cornwall Iv I have them and bad ass better then then theses especially for body and fullness!! - scale! But they are big and more $$ but awesome awesome review man so well done I loved it. I’d like to see more like this for sure some people suck online doing reviews and break downs but you did great !!! And dude your music taste is legit like mine awesome songs mentioned!
Is it ok if I grab a Rum & Coke instead of the coffee? If I were going for vintage I think I would choose the Altec Model 19 over those. Of course the Model 19 is a lot bigger and it would likely cost a lot more than $3K to piece together a set but I believe it to be a much better speaker.
I was remis when I didn't thank both Ron from New Record Day and Safe and Sound for making this happen. Without those two I wouldn't have had this opportunity. Check out www.safeandsoundhq.com for any of your hifi needs.
Randy, before you purchase a pair of the Klipsch Heresey's, you should try the KLH Model 5's first.
@@arena_rock_man9030 would love to. And I won’t be buying either of them any time soon... although I’d like to
@@cheapaudioman I wonder if Andrew Robinson would allow you to borrow his KLH model 5's?
@@cheapaudioman You should try the Wharfedale Linton Heritage. Similar speakers in style and size but almost 1/3 of the price .... !!!
@@andreassouth1523 are those also horn loaded? No? Oh.. not the same then.
During the video I said that these were "walnut". The actual color is "distressed oak". And they look super cool.
Nothing sexier than oak with an inferiority complex.
Ok? Ok.
Great review Randy. People have commented you’ve lost your cheapness. I don’t think reviewing one high end product you’ve admired for years cancels your hundred or so cheap audio videos. Do what you want.
Thanks, brother. I've said it in other comments that out of more than 200 videos 3 have been $999 or higher. That's les that 1.5%. Pretty good average. And frankly I'd challenge anyone to find another youtuber that has listened and reviewed more products under $600 in the last two years. I've done that in 6 months.
I think most people are just joking around, not really being critical or anything.
@@cheapaudioman there is the thought that you need to listen to expensive speakers to know if the cheaper speakers compare.
@@therealboofighter Some used early JBL Eons would be comparable in efficiency and low cost, as a comparison, but Randy reviews new stuff? The Home Theatre bloggers were blown away by using high efficiency, modestly priced Behringer PA speakers as L+C+R (and surrounds). Not unlike the efficiency of some PA style Cerwin Vega home speaker towers a while back.
Don't listen to the idiots do what you want. Sometimes audio costs more than we want it to. Keep your eye open for a good used deal. That's all.
I have a pair of Klipsch Forte's that I got back in '86 or '88 or sometime around them. I fell in love with them when I heard them and had to. get them. I've had them for 30+ years and they are still going strong. They are very efficient and the sound is fantastic. I paid around $1,100 for them back then and I just saw that the latest version (which I don't think look quite as good as mine) are going for $4,998/pair. WOW. Glad mine are still going strong.
Original owner of a pair of Heresy II raw birch. Paid $799 CAD. If I wanted to sell the I could get the same or more.Not many other makers could say the same.
You have the speaker equivalent of a 1967 Corvette L88.
In other words, you're quite fortunate, and should never part with those.
I own the Heresy IVs. I had the opportunity to audition them against some other serious speakers. I didn’t imagine that I would buy them after saving up for high end speakers for a while. They were simply better. I have them powered by Conrad Johnson tube gear. It’s really just perfect.
Your thoughts on getting these for a Marantz SR6015?
@@royalway12 man I would just love to have a good opinion for you, but my gear is just so far away from what you have I don’t think my opinion will help you at all. My set up is for audio only. It’s two channel. My gear is tube gear, both pre and power amp. Klipsch is known for pairing optimally with tubes. I worry with your Marantz that you’re using it for audio and HT. For HT you might want crazy bass that the IVs may struggle with. If you’re just looking for audio and two channel, I recommend these.
A lot of people don’t take into account what houses were like when Paul Klipsch designed his line of horn loaded speakers. Most homes had rooms with convenient corners - very few open concept houses around then - and in the early 60s carpet was kind of the new thing with many people moving away from hardwood floors. The rooms these speakers are placed in makes a huge difference in how they sound (as of course it does with every other speaker).
I got my pair of Heresy III's slightly used for $1,200 in Black. Coupled with a new Willsenton R8 with the upgraded L34's for $1,100K, I think I hit a cheapguy home run. I use an old 15" Definitive Technology sub for the missing octave down low. If you have spent many hours in small venues clubs listening to live music, the Heresy's may be for you.
😂😂4.400€ no deep bass.🙈🙈🙈
@@thomasschafer7268 Dude...there are speakers costing upward of 50 grand that have no deep bass. Not kidding.
@@scottlowell493 Like what?
Used gear is the way to go. Tried and tested, broke in, and leaves you money for more gear. You can always upgrade to new drivers for the horns and get a brand new sound. But they won't be broken in.
@@waterlife.1905 I agree that used gear is the way to go, i've made some amazing deals over the years and saved myself tons although i'm skeptical about sound changing with use because why does the sound only ever get better? Makes no sense to me along with the fact there's never been a shred of data to prove it's real
Hey Randy - thanks for this - it may be the best review of these speakers I've seen to date! I've owned a pair (in Black Ash, BTW - yes, there are reasons "someone would buy these in black"... :) ) Anyway, my experience has been the same as yours - I thought I'd have to return them when I first listened to them, but they just kept getting better with every listening session, and after 2 months, they just keep getting better! You described them well - they're just "different", and yes, they are special! They make music sound the way I like it - I love 'em!! You should definitely get a pair...
Thanks and I will probably have a pair someday. right now any extra cash is going to buying things to review for the viewers and less about what I personally want. My recent DIY speakers have been my to for personal listening.
@Nicholas break in is a hoax. it makes no sense at all, that degradation of tiny mechanical parts will a) always better the sound of a speaker and b) change the sound at all in a humanly perceivable way.
Good honest unbiased review. This is getting to be my favorite... no ! This is my favorite review channel. It really is a hot Rod speaker.
That's a really honest review, Randy. It was interesting to see you actually struggle to have words to say. I've had a similar experience before as well when experiencing open baffle for the first time, and I'm honestly still trying to wrap my head around it..
If you wrap your head around the open baffle then it will be enclosed and no longer be 'open' and your baffled-ness experience will go away defeating the whole purpose and point of the open 'BAFFLE'.
If you are not baffled by an open baffle speaker then it's not baffling hard enough and does not qualify as such...it's back to the open drawing board for that company's R&D.
@James Fisher what is?
@James Fisher Then I guess you haven't heard good open baffle speakers, cuz they certainly do exist.
I'm a big fan of Klipsch (Heresy, Cornwall and Klipschorn) and HLCD speakers in general, but not having an abundance of disposable income, I looked for lesser expensive alternatives. My favorite was found in the DIY "Econowave" speaker.
It uses a 12" prosound midbass and 1" horn-loaded compression driver with waveguide. Build cost for the pair is roughly $500. I doubt anything in the retail market costing double that can compete.
I notice my listening preferences tend to align with yours Randy, so with that being said I really appreciate the honest in depth review.
I bought my H3s about 6 years ago. $500 used, but well cared for and even had the original boxes. I love these speakers! The clarity is amazing. I had to upgrade my turntable after getting these because I could hear all the extra noise coming through the needle. I too have the Onkyo TX 686 abd they sound excellent at regular volumes. The amp does start clipping when I turn it up high. Being a bass player I much prefer the type of tight bass sounds that I get from these speakers. And they pair well with my subwoofer. Yes I ride Harleys too.
Had mine for over a year now and loving these things. They are midrange machines that when paired with a good sub sound amazing. Willsenton r8 makes for a good match. Part of the family now.
New to your channel so I don’t know what speakers you have listened to. But it sounds like you have discovered what turns people into audiophiles. That discovery of a great soundstage. Not all that conman in “cheap hifi”
I have my H4s for nearly a year now. I love them, I bought recently a REL 9Ti sub for them and now this can really be the last rig in your life. I spend few days to set it up but now everything has more body and authority. Nothing from the great midrange and highs is lost, and actually they sound even better. Eg well mixed drums are super realistic. Strongly recommend a sub for these (as actually for all spekaers), blend it in properly and you will not stop listening.
Same here! I went with the Rel T5 and it ROCKS! Can’t stop listening.
Heresy IV, Willsenton R8 w\stock KT88s (have a set of EL34s on the way) Pontus II , BlueSound 2i. Great rig!! Would buy it all again.
Thanks for the Heresy review. I’ve had my Heresy’s since the early 80s. I bought them unfinished in raw birch, stained them with a walnut and tongue oil. Mine are non ported with the older screw-on terminals. I also bought the optional slant risers. I’m powering them with 2 channel Yamaha RX 397 receiver, Sony direct drive turntable and Logitech Bluetooth adapter to play from my iPhone. To my 73 year old ears, the Heresy’s still kick ass!
Hi Randy, love the channel sir! I own these and Klipschorn cornerhorns, it only gets better the further up you go lol. The 3d thing is absolutely true with horn speakers. That is the lack of distortion at work. Mathematically speaking, distortion has a 1:1 relationship to efficiency. Less speaker movement. The higher the efficiency, the lesser amount of distortion. With 99 db, you hear the little details, the minute differences in volume of the mix which translates to depth. Love horns, nothing like them when done right. Good review sir, spot on.
I like your review. LOL I only now realize that I commented a year ago on this same review. I am glad that I gave you a listen once again.
Love my Heresy IV! I agree with what you said they are different, interesting and special. Thanks for your review. I bought from Ron (Safe and Sound) and he was great.
This is the best Klipsch Heresy 4 review I have seen online. Thank you? I have.
A pair of Heresy IV speakers and can say they take about one thousand hours of playing to fully break in. Same goes for their RP 600M II speakersp that I own And they are absolutely incredible if you can space them correctly. One foot from the wall and 7 and a 1/2 feet apart and 7 feet away from you.That may sound perfect. The Heresy's also sound good with a lot more thump and way more volume.
With the volume only halfway up, you will get a visit from the police if you play 'em very long., something the RP600,s won"t do. The old Klipsch add, "Pissing off neighbors since 1946" still holds true today. And it's the first time I ever heard it and it's true. Thank you for the comparison.,"klipsch is the Harly-Davidson of speakers" and I couldn't agree more, just ask my neighbors. And yes, mine are black!
Great review Randy, I really liked your comparison to Harley-Davidson. I think that Klipsch tweaks the Heritage line to stay current, but never loses the vision that Paul W. Klipsch started with. Glad you enjoyed your time with them.
Paired with a good tube amplifier, in my case a Line Magnetic 211 iA, the Heresy IV is an absolute dream team. This plastic openness and transparency in the mid-high range is unique. I like listening to live recordings, you can literally reach into the stage.
The audiophile virtues such as resolution, localization and spatiality are also at a very high level with the Heresy IV.
Other loudspeakers, even high-quality ones, often bored me relatively quickly, but this is completely different with the Heresy IV, these are captivating and you feel like you are right in front of the stage.
I enjoyed your review, cheapaudioman. You offer a different and unique angle apart from other reviews on the Klipsch Heresy IVs that I've listened to. At the end of the review, I felt trust in your judgement of these speakers. You are honest and truthful.
I just picked up Heresy IIIs for $750 second hand in very good condition and have them paired with my dual svs sb1000 and I am in love. I only have them powered by a denon AVR right now, but they are worlds better than my rp600ms that got moved to surround duty.
Excellent review, I can understand your topics and you speak about interesting things. Subscribed.
I own the MK IVs and all I have to say is that they're extremely fussy and will sound like different speakers depending on the room and especially with what type of amp you pair them with. I've tried a number of amps and when it's good it's sublime and when it's bad it's..."interesting" to borrow from your review!
which amp did you find is best for the MKIV?
Thought it was awesome seeing you testing out higher tier levels, can't wait to see your La Scala Review!!!!!!!
The artist formerly known as "cheapaudioman"
Now goes by "audioman"
😃😂
Impossible not to happen lol
Cheap is a relative term
@@dougg1075 Yes, cheap is relative. For me, "cheap" means of shoddy, careless workmanship, substandard materials, etc. Inexpensive, on the other hand, means value regardless of actual money paid.
@@robk5745 so true, this guy is a content making beast it's no suprise he ran out of cheap products to talk about and ended up making connections with people who are into higher end audio who can borrow him stuff to review.
Cheapaudioman FTW
Honest Review, this is why we watch!!! Love the Harley reference as I've had this discussion regarding what choose to ride. Great Review👍👍👍
I have been on the HiFi merry go round for years , looking for “ refined” sound and I have all the usual suspects in speakers but found myself bored with the hobby, took a chance on the Heresy IVs and I haven’t had this much fun in the hobby since I started. Waiting on my Wilsenton R8 to go with them now. I do have a bad A Sub connected also, I’m done for a long time. I’ll keep these forever and if I get another set, it will be Cornwalls.
Yes. Willsenton is here. Waiting for the Fortes! 😁🤩😎
Loved This Honest Review Sir Randy! I hope you make time to live with the Klipsch Cornwall IV for a few weeks as well. A Very Special Sound indeed…
Greatest home audio I've heard was Klipsch Kornerhorns with a LaScala center driven by Crown (1975). My acoustics prof invited the class to his home to hear the system in the room he designed & built for them! Amazing. The next "different" speaker has got to be Magnepan. Great review, Randy.
Good friend of mine drove LaScalas with Crown IC and D150 electronics. All of that equipment was pretty awesome to a 22 year old in 1975. Back then, Crown was really high end. People that listen to these professional Crown amps today, don’t know they used to be highly desirable for personal use.
Thanks for name dropping Tool. I never heard of them before, so I hope one day to hear their music on a serious sound system.
I’ve been waiting for this one. 👍👍
Love the tune you use for your intro’s. Great video
Fantastic Heresy review, Randy!
I come to cheap audio man because he is the man. A man that drinks coffee and sounds like a restless father that looks forward to closing his eyes and listening to the right tracking feeding the soul, escaping reality. I also the same as cheap audio man. Thank you for this channel I throughly enjoy you reviews.
Especially if you plan to keep exploring tube amps would love to see you explore some other high efficiency speakers. Tekton Lore or Zu Omen Dirty Weekend come to mind.
...and the Mini Lore are only $650, he should be looking at these
@@marks291 I am interested in speakers from tekton as well. I want something to replace my monoprice monolith mm3's. Something that could work nearfield but also can sorta fill a 20 by 15 room up. Mainly be used as I sit in front of my pc but also need to be able to handle being cranked up for workouts/deadlifts in the same room. Go down to 40hz with authority. Mainly metalcore/deathcore/death metal. Something that can handle the bass drops. I love these little mm3's but the bass gets real FARTY when it is deep and moderate to loud volumes. Do not want to add a sub to this setup or area. Max amount spent between the speakers and amp, 800$.
One of the first rules of box design is that the more sensitivity you want, the more bass extension you give up. So, none of the big Klipsch speakers go really low. Even the K'horns only go down to around 35-40hz.
maybe the fortes have a dynamic bass (but they do have a really aggresive and sybiling high frequencies which i didin't like)
The la scala roll off hard starting at 100hz.
@@crazymetallian Forte II are better than I, but what they need is a better tweeter and crossover like the forte III/IV. The forte I and II used a crappy polymer tweeter that broke up and just sounded nasty.
Bought em, and after a month of placements and equipment switching out, I couldn't wait to sell them. Oh well, can't be right all the time.
What a FUCKING GREAT review randy !!!!! As a Klipsch FAN for 35 years, And owning SEVERAL different models, I think you hit the nail right on the head with these !!! Klipsch ARE an Aquired taste, and for those who like a LIVE sound ...MANY people have a LOVE/HATE relationship with Klipsch in general.. As a musician, I LOVE EM !!!!! THE HARLEY DAVIDSON of speakers ..LOL...AWESOME.
Thanks so much.
Good honest review. For years I’ve had 1978 Heresy’s, with the Crites upgrades, on my main system. Always wondered how they would stack up against a newer version. Got a chance last week. Hauled mine down the street. Put them on a neighbor’s high end theater system with VI’s. Didn’t do blind testing, just ran the same tracks on Tidal twice. Everything is subjective, but both of us agree the differences are minor. Slightly better low end on the VI, which is to be expected with the reworked x-over and bass port.
Zu dirty weekends ( starting at 1k)and tekton lores (mini lore
I agree! I run Tekton Mini Lore with a Primaluna tube amp and it's a GREAT combo! My next step up in speakers will be larger Tektons, for sure!
I haven't heard any talk about tekton in a while.
The Reisong amp rolls off at around 4K, which makes it a wonderful choice any high-efficiency speaker with a treble-heavy response curve. I run mine into Klipsch RB 61 IIs on stands at my computer desk, and I can listen to them for hours at a time. The Reisong paired with Klipsch bookshelf speakers is a match made in Heaven.
Love my Zu DW’s with upgraded XO. Latest generation build as of 2021. Really dynamic and easy going. Like the Klipsch, these are high sensitivity which means slightly thinner bass. I have mine paired with a custom 15” sub.
You gave me goosebumps. A true review which I can relate to. What you say is how my Heresy iv sounds like. Theese are going to the grave with me.
I've found a used pair for $800. But they don't look exactly like the ones your showing. The drivers mount from the inside, the pair behind you they mount from the front. I haven't see these in person but the pics show some wear but look like there in good condition . I'm assuming there old. If they sound ok, should I buy these asap before there gone?
THANK YOU ! EXCELLENT REVIEW.
Very good review. A special speaker. Spot on...can't go wrong with a Klipsch review.
I bought my Heresy 4s new a year ago. I sold them in Oct. In my main room, I just never felt a connection. I missed the scale of my Maggie 1.7s. The 1.7s are back in my room. In my basement set-up, the Heresies sounded much better. However, I couldn't justify $3k speakers in my budget basement system. Oh well. Anyway, I really like your content.
Yo Randy! As always - great honest review. Thanks for keeping it real my man! El Randy!
My favorite review of yours.
My new favourite channel! Should be called "Between Two Veneers" 😉
Could you please tell us which amp you used to review the Heresys?
Excellent review.
Funny because I do love the black:) specially with the grill on
Thanks for this review! I'm a Klipsch man myself (Cornwalls). If you really love them, make it happen! Look for a vintage pair on Craigslist and put in new capacitors... Before the Cornwalls I had KG4s which weren't expensive but had a lot of the same qualities.
I bought a pair of Klipsch Heresy speakers in 1980 that I still own to this day. A lot of people don't like their sound because of their harshness (bright sound). The amp/receiver that you use makes a huge difference. Over the years they have been hooked up to several amps/receivers of different brands. They definitely sound better on older equipment. The end game for me as far what they sound the best with is a Marantz 1090 integrated amp that I found at a thrift store about 20 years ago for $30. Had to have the caps replaced which was about $100. I don't know what it is about the Marantz but they sound incredible.
I think the Harley reference is perfect for these speakers. Are there better motorcycles, possibly but there's something special about Harley and Indian that you just don't get with Yamaha or Honda. Which the same goes for the Klipsch Hersey speakers just something special. Great Review Randy!
The comparison is right on the money....with Klipsch and Harley you buy history and a vibe.
I'm 64 so there's not that much left of "tomorrow". I have a pair of the Heresys IV just like you're showing here. I paid retail for them. I also have a pair of Altec Lansing Model 5. I paid $75 for the pair. Back in 1978 I was a soldier in West Germany on my way to the PX to buy a pair of Heresys. Before I was able to pull out my wallet I saw the vender hooking up a pair of Altec Lansing Model 9 series II. When I heard them I fell in love. I left the Klipschs on the showroom floor and went home with the Altecs. If you ever run into a pair of them (Model 9 or model 5), buy them, or at least listen to them.
Great review! I listened to a pair while in the Army back in the 80's. The "knock" on these has always been how they handled vocals. They've gotten much better since then but did the vocals sound like the singers were singing inside of a tunnel?
Thanks. I am debating this speaker, unless I can get the Forte IV used at lower price. I know of the limitations of Klipsch and what I will be giving up on more audiophile brands, but I don't know, there's something about the Heritage line that just pulls me in, especially those Forte's. I am due for a second demo on the Hersey because the first was eh, I couldn't get my head around the sound coming from that low, additionally, I heard the Forte side by side and that totally did me in, so this time I'm just demoing the Hersey. How did you feel with them on stands? Were the stand too angled?
I heard the better quality power you feed them the better presentation you get, and one reviewer said they love class A. Have you tried this? Meanwhile, it's either go for the Hersey or save up for the Forte and get some other speaker now, whatever that may be. Peace.
Randy, this is an important video - this is a horn speaker, and they only really do efficiency well. Back in the day, when these were a bit over $1000 - it was the Snell Acoustics Type E/II that I took home. And that was after listening to at least 12 or 15 other speakers, seriously.
Did you try them toed in, or straight ahead? I love the *idea* of these speakers - but they leave me cold.
both toed in. I rarely have things completely straight out. They imaged well.
@@cheapaudioman Thanks - that's the thing about horns; they aim as much of the acoustic energy in one direction as possible. So, this means you have to be close to on axis to hear the highs; since highs are directional.
So glad you finally got to give these a listen. Please please please try this with a good subwoofer. It’s amazing how different speaker can sound who when you fill the lower octaves. The speaker was originally designed to be a center speaker so it needs support down low. Anyhow hope you get to try them with a sub before you send them off.
These need to go back so unfortunately I won’t have them long term.
@James Fisher room accoustics don't give a crap about the price you paid for speakers my friend. The fact is that in most rooms you get better and more even bass NOT at the location of your main LR speakers, even if they CAN play down to 20hz. I'd also rather always give my mains more headroom for dynamics by freeing them and my amp of the frequencies that are most demanding.
A problem with Classic Klipsch is that you will hear things due to the 96-104db horn efficiency, that other 85-92db conical speakers cannot reveal. It's a double edged sword.
At 96db it's already TWICE as loud as that 92db speaker and 4x as loud as the 85db one at 1 watt per Meter. Most conical speakers are 88-90db.
At 104db.....the neighbors are calling the Police(No not the Band, unless you got really cool neighbors. XD 😄).
So it may come across as "the speakers are bad" but the truth is the recording and/or your system has problems and/or are creating noise/things that Klipsch amplifies and reveals.
I posted previously how I muted a receiver and I could still hear the program out the speakers, at first I thought the mute circuit was broken, they are that efficient.
Also they all (the bigger ones especially Chorus, Fortes, Klipschorns)seem to do better in larger (ceiling) rooms and spaced out further apart than in a typical
Enjoyed this review
I would love to have these as an endgame speaker. Great reviews
love your stuff brother , i had those speaker with my mac mc275. wow amazing how was the chinese tube w/heresy Iii sound ?
I agree wholeheartedly with your findings!!! I cannot help but also hearing the huge box. I wanted to like them so much. Still need a sub for that lower octave:(
I drove 3 hours to buy a pair of heresy 1 and thought I'd be done with speakers. 2 hours later they were listed on marketplace again. The horns made my ears bleed and I was underwhelmed. I hooked my large advents back up and was much more happy.
Picked up Klipsch KG4s on Friday with the Crites Tweeter upgrade already installed…$300. I’ve never heard a Heresy, but folks say this beats it…no matter the version. Just wow, thanks for the SVS sound base review; they pair very well. Listening to the Cambridge Audio Speaker Test play list on Qobuz…highly recommend it. I’ve never heard guitar riffs sound so real, female vocals, the bass on kick drums (you can hear the secondary reverberation like when you play them)…SVS ultras had separation, but on KG4s the guitars sound like they’re coming from different amps…and it follows you into the kitchen ha ha. They “center” but on a soundstage that spreads from speaker to speaker. SVS the vocals would be a tight circle up and down a perfect center…my entire wall sounds like it’s the speaker and not in a mushy way. Ultimate, ultimate bang for the buck. Movies are good too, dialogue is clear, very theatrical and “sparkly”…not through the sound base though (maybe the optical input…might try a separate DAC and see if there’s a difference).
I had a set of KG4 with same upgrade last year for $375 and I picked up a set of Heresy 2 for $400 early this year. I must say, the Heresy needs a sub but the mid-range and sound stage is much better. Both are in perfect condition and I have a hard time deciding which set to keep or keep both....
@@ultraAsianman I’m in a condo, so the KG4s give me a bit of low end that I can’t get otherwise. But…I’ve paired them with a KV3 center and a pair of KG2.5s for rears. Added the Tweeter upgrade to the center and very impressed. Use it for 2.0 music and TV in 5.1.
Enjoyed the review. It seems that almost every reviewer really finds a lot to like about these speakers, even if it isn't their favorite. Not sure I would ever spend 3K for a pair of speakers, but I would like to hear these someday. I have a pair of Zu Audio Dirty Weekend speakers ($1K), and they are the best sounding speakers I have ever heard. If you get a chance to hear some Zu speakers check them out.
Yes, like to hear about these and lower priced Tektons.
Soundstage description sounds like you are facing polarity issues. Anyway, loved the Harley Davidson's analogy!
I setup a system that had Klipsch LaScala's (96db)and when I muted the JVC Receiver you could STILL hear the program coming out of the speakers(like someone talking loudly on the other end on a smart phone where you can hear it from feet away).
I thought the receiver muting circuit was damaged until I realized *the speaker is so efficient* it was able to amplify the leakage current to where it was audible.
I think your generous in your assessment of bass. While I appreciate accuracy and speed in the bass the heresey don't have the reach leaving me unsatisfied. If you gut one they don't appear built well with minimal bracing and odd cabinet resonance. I have had heresey II speaker for 20 years now and they just leave me unsatisfied. They sound better overall at ear bleeding volumes. And it's not my amp. I am driving them with a luxman pre and power amp which sounds amazing with my other speakers. For 3 grand klipsch should up their game on drivers and overall build quality in my opinion.
What amplifier did you use with these speakers? The overall sound is very dependent on the speaker / amplifier matching.
Tubes
What about JBL 4367? vs Klipsch Cornwall IV playing: Song: Moonlight Serenade by Diana Panton. On this song only, as I haven't heard the JBL's on anything else yet, I prefer the 2-way JBL's over the Klipsch. Your thoughts Please. Enjoyed this video. Thanks
nice mug....I always listen to the cheapaudioman....Hear-Threepio
i was at an audio show, and between these, the fortes and the La Scala, i think the Herasys were the most fun experience to listen to....
La Scala is amazing but is a very dry sound... almost like a peavy pro speaker (but better in every way)
Randy, I am a true believer in one concept: A person's brain will adapt to the speaker you are listening to. It will become an acquired taste, much like that developed for wines, beers, or coffee. I have listened to many speakers that seemed to get better the longer I listened to them. In fact, what was likely happening, was my brain was adapting to the sound and pulling the most out of what it was hearing. This phenomenon in perception concerning the ears, eyes, and sense of taste, with the brain adapting, has been proven many times through experimentation. When the brain is hit with something new, it does it's best to normalize that sensation and perfect it. This happens with sound through cochlear implants, eyesight with new prescriptions, and taste when we try new cultural foods (which we hate at first).
Just when I didn’t think I could love the vibe of this channel anymore than I already do, “audiophile trees” “they dont RESINate”`. Duck off thats incredible.
Nice review of these speakers. I own an updated Heresy 2, and these seem to share the same sound. Musical tastes will influence whether someone enjoys these speakers - great for blues, but pretty “meh” if your preferences are something like the “Brandenburg Concertos”.
Like somebody mentioned these speakers will be loved by listeners ( like me) who have spent many hours in small venues clubs listening to live music because thats exactly what they sound like,
A live show.
Very real, engaging , intimate , big sound ( think muscle car ) They are very truthful sounding/ less warm and comforting which may turn off some.
They are very , very fun if you love live club shows of mixed genre's or heavy vocals. No rap or pop.
If you want absolute perfection imaging these may not be for you.
Regardless of what anyone says , unless you've did A/B side by side comparison ,these Klipsch compression drivers NEED break-in .
They also LOVE tubes ! I'm using SS with tube pre.
Randy, I have a pair of these. They are connected to a vintage Nakamichi PA-7 (200W x 2 @ 8 Ohms) amp. That much power into speakers that efficient can get much louder than I can stand. But I don't care.
The sensitivity of these speakers is close ti 100db I think. The tiniest tube amps will drive them well. I think thats a pretty good plus for the tube heads - the Dekware amp with about 3 wpc works really well with these type speakers
Love all your videos-
I suggest an LP or two for jazz: the newest Blue Note Classic Vinyl reissues: Dizzy Reese. Another is Little Johnny C. These sound FANTASTIC. Would be great to use as test LPs. Another one is a Tone Poet reissue: Wayne Shorter ETC. AMAZING especially the drumming.
Hey Randy, loving your channel. I'm a fellow metal fan and wondering your thoughts on how well you think these will play all those 80s metal albums which might not have been recorded brilliantly (some of that awesome German thrash for example!). I ask because you mention in your review that they play some things well and other things just "OK".... thanks and keep doing what you're doing!
Just breaking in a new Wilsenten P8 tube amp, a new pair of Heresy iv and an Master Tracker cart on a MoFi ultradeck.
Right on time bro....Im thinking very hard about buying a set for my 50th birthday coming up...
Best intros in hi/fi RUclips.
Great review Randy. I’d already decided I could never live with these even if I was rich. Between you and Ron just confirmed it. I love the soundstage I get from bookshelf monitors to ever give it up. I’m still in awe of the Elac Uni 52’s. Best sound I’ve ever had.
Saving up for the GR Research. 👍
@James Fisher no room.
@James Fisher 😂 I’ve got Elac bookshelves, no room for towers. 👍
Glad you did this review even though Heresy’s are anything but cheap. To do credible cheap reviews it is incumbent that you let us know what you think of the stuff that ain’t cheap. Looking forward to more of the same. I would also be interested in a review of several cheap amps compared while using inexpensive speaker systems and then the same comparison using Heresy’s or other speakers capable of revealing flaws in cheaper equipment. By the way, what amplifier/amplifiers did you use during this review?
vista audio spark which I consider actually the best amp I have from a clarity standpoint. The reisong A10, and the emotiva a300. not expensive by any standards for most. I should have put them on my Anthem Integrated 225 but I needed to get these back. I think a fuller and more lush amp would pair nicely with these but I enjoyed them with the amps I used.
What a contrast in your last two videos! Two type of speakers worlds apart! Interesting stuff on both though!!😉👍
The classic Heresy speakers 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Almost bought a used pair n 1990. Well broken in, and smooth like butter. Sadly, just out of my reach at the time. Nice review. Thanks
Try the Cornwall Iv I have them and bad ass better then then theses especially for body and fullness!! - scale! But they are big and more $$ but awesome awesome review man so well done I loved it. I’d like to see more like this for sure some people suck online doing reviews and break downs but you did great !!!
And dude your music taste is legit like mine awesome songs mentioned!
backin the day when i used to read those stereo magazines i used to lust over the Khorns and the heresys, i also loved the ADS 1290
Is it ok if I grab a Rum & Coke instead of the coffee? If I were going for vintage I think I would choose the Altec Model 19 over those. Of course the Model 19 is a lot bigger and it would likely cost a lot more than $3K to piece together a set but I believe it to be a much better speaker.
They cost the same as my first wedding, more than my second. No where near what either of my two divorces cost. No where near!
Nice review -- the Harley thing makes total sense....When I want to spend stupid dough on new speakers I'm getting a couple CORNWALLS.
Your Harley analogy is spot on. it doesn't matter because it's a Heresy (or Harley). Can I sell you a T-Shirt? ;)