Head to squarespace.com/cheapaudioman to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code cheapaudioman Eversolo DMP A6 amzn.to/3QgMk4n Mofi Sourcepoint 8's howl.me/ckhbCAFxR7Z Emotiva DR1 Emotiva DR1 Monoblock Amplifier bit.ly/3LBNzY8
Thanks for the short rundown on the Eversolo. I had believed it had EARC input/output, which it doesn't. Still torn if I should get it, without the EARC.
The frugal audioman, the inexpensive audio dude, the kind, the thoughtful and HONEST audio Mister...whatever label you need to add to further your career, rock on, Randy...you are much appreciated!
My only problem with these reviews is that they are purely subjective, there are no instrumented tests involved for frequency response, etc. So every time i watch a review from here, i take it with multiple grains of salt.
It's not necessarily the "cheap" part that brings me here. It's the personality and honest, down to earth reviews. I'd listen to you review anything no matter the price 👍
I don’t know, Randy, I don’t think it’s a good idea to enter into the crowded “higher end” segment. I already watch Andrew Robinson, John Darko, and Simon’s the 13th Note channels to educate myself on the audiofile product range. I watch you to look at stuff I’m more likely to buy. In fact, my listening room consists of only stuff you’ve reviewed. So why compete in an already crowded market when you already lead the market in your “cheap audio” segment?
I sometimes think about, "why did I stop watching that RUclips Channel?" This is why. I will check back now and again. There are already a bunch of higher end reviewers out there. ~best of luck!
Good Value Audioman. There are still good value components up to the $2-$3k range and higher. I also agree with what you said that trying out more mid-fi products will help you evaluate the truly budget gear and determine the so called "Giant Killers" of audio. Cheap and budget is different for everyone. I feel there are lots of budget components that pop up weekly due to Chinese manufacturers and pay wages..but no need to exclude higher priced or mid-tier gear if you are able to get your hands and ears on it. It doesn't take long for certain types of audio enthusiast's to move on past buying ultra budget gear, they would love to see videos every once in awhile of products they might actually buy. Rock on people!
Well stated. A friend of mine worked doing research for Harman Kardon and Bang and Olufsen. He and his team found equal sound quality/resolution blind testing systems costing 50.000 usd and 6.000 usd. Sound signature was different, but nobody felt one or the other was superior. The 6.000 usd system is not cheap, but value? You bet.
Thanks Randy! I think your channel is going in the right direction. You are spot on with having to test the more expensive gear to see how it stacks up with the entry level gear. That way you can intelligently point out where the law of diminishing returns is and help people find real value in hi-fi gear. Keep up the great work and enjoy the next couple months being the "Value" Audioman!
There are values to be found in every price range!!! Keep bringing your findings to us Randy! Just because I can't afford a Corvette doesn't mean I don't want know about it...
Just keep it at "affordable audio" and we'll be good. The main thing is not to get caught up in the BS surrounding the more ridiculous end of the audio spectrum. Like a lot of hobbies, there's a point of very rapidly diminishing returns in hifi.
« Affordable » is a trap. There’s a lot of BS around the cheap stuff with big claims such as « punches way above its weight ». So you buy an SMSL amp and then you hear that Fosi audio sells a better amp for less money. And you end up with 6 or 7 amps. You could have just bought a good AB amp.
The only thing missing from inexpensive audio reviews that anyone does: a reference. IE: "This SMSL amp performs at 90% or 100% of the level of this (exact name) amp that costs $(price)" These speakers cost only $299, but the outperform the (exact name) speaker that costs 2--3x as much. This is not the only channel that does this. The vagaries like "Sounds like a $XXXX. dollar amp! Not a concrete comparison. Instead of the emotiva b1+ beats speakers costing 2x as much IE: "The emotiva b1+ at $279 easily outperform the elac DBR 6 which are $399. Reasons a,b,c. Dropping names solidifies the conviction of the review products praise.
Stick with value-based products. In my case, I care about products that are affordable TO ME. That available range is broad enough to include hardware worth up to several thousands. I am happy/content with my system presently but I always keep an eye out for GOOD stuff. So GOOD VALUE is a good goal for your reviews.
We will still be here to support you Randy. You are responsible for my Schiit Saga S, Mani, Geshelli J2, WIIM Pro and now my Q Acoustics 3050s are arriving today! I don't mind watching how the upper echelons of the audiophile world live. I am a man of simple tastes but I can appreciate the craftsmanship of a high quality product. Ready when you are sir.
Let me know how you like the 3050’s. I’ve had mine for a month and they’re getting better. I had a pair of 3030i’s and was blown away. So, I was confused when thee 3050 were so cheap. Well, they just didn’t have that sparkle the 3030i’s have. I’m getting ready to start picking up there 5000 series gear. Q Acoustics makes great speakers. I’ll end up using my 3050’s for surround speakers. I know, off for a floor speaker to be surround, but my den is weird and can support them. Good luck!
Agree with the “listen to higher tier stuff to rank lower cost stuff” perspective. Been in audio over 50 years and usually bought used to keep cost down. I just bought my ‘ bucket list’ speakers…Tannoy Stirling GR’s. Wouldn’t have fully appreciated them without the speakers in my past.
Re. room treatment, I found a local builder and had them custom made and it was a significant improvement. My room has hard wood floors, two large windows, glass french doors... Same materials, (chose acoustic fabrics and frequently recommended batting) and it has helped immeasurably. And not as expensive as you might think. Lots of channels where you can learn how to test your room and learn how much you need to treat.
Do what you do best Randy. Reviewing Audio equipment no matter the cost. As long as you don’t become one of those reviewers that don’t even listen to the products or don’t have any hands on experience with the equipment you are talking about…you are golden! Great video. Great content as always!
I listened to his 10” version on a 10,000 BAT tube amp. In his treated room. Glad you liked them. And room treatment is huge. I custom made my panels out of wood frames and wool insulation.
I’ve been using ATS Acoustics sound dampening panels for over a decade. The best place to start is on the sides at the 1st reflection points. Really helps clean up the mids and improves vocal clarity.
About time you’re diving into more expensive gear - also with the aim to compare it with inexpensive audio… So many amps, dac’s and loudspeakers up to £ 2500 - 3000 worth every penny!
honestly understanding room acoustics and getting panels was the biggest eye opener for me in my audio journey as a producer/engineer/enjoyment listener, I think a common problem is people typically will have too much high-end deadening when in reality they need bass traps and a more lively top end. but diffusion at rear wall + panels in corners = solid upgrade for anyone looking for a little more sonic resolution. love your videos
You started the channel with the premise of “audio products don’t have to be expensive to be good and enjoyable” however, speakers at $3k is not even close at being “The Cheapaudioman!” I remember how pleased and enthusiastic you were when you reach 100k subscribers, now getting close to the 200k the format is going to change. I hate to say it but the niche that got you where you are was fresh and appealing. Now, manufacturers are taking note of the channel and sending you products and products that you can keep might go to your head. So, I hope the new direction you are taking goes well for you.
Waiting for huge savings on closeout models, as they make way for their replacements, is how I have built a decent system. This approach works for me at least. I also save and pay cash instead of credit buying. Paying cash makes a person tend to wait, and when you wait, emotions wane, and sensibility prevails, and almost always waiting, will usually catch huge price drops.
I spent about $1000 for acoustical panels and they look good but hard to say they improved the sound quality. However, it really is a separate science that requires specific placement to overcome room issues.
I spent about a 1500 on a no holds barred acoustic treatment from GIK based on a spare bedroom. I Sent them the room layout with exact dimensions and they sent me three options- ranging from about 500, 1000, and finally 1500. (That included taxes and shipping). It was like night and day .. the improvement in sound is very hard to believe. It’s like being in a recording studio. Yeah, it can be done cheaper. But anyone not doing it is missing out on a lot. It is by far the best improvement I ever made to a home audio setup. I’m very budget conscience so spending that kind of money was terrifying .. but is was not much more than the Zu Omens I bought a few months before. Those Omens sound frikin spectacular now. Like I said- night and day. Anyone serious about reviewing audio gear in an untreated room is not serious about reviewing audio equipment.
You'll always be the 'Valueaudioman' to me brother. You reawakened my musical passions and enjoyment and not least, you have enriched my life as a whole with your advice and friendship. Inflation affects us all, but your down to earth honesty and reviews remain the most valuable to me, but before I get blasted for having a 'bromance', I will stop praising you and just say keep doing what you are doing and share with us, all that interests you, and take us along for the ride.
You'll always be Cheap Audioman no matter what you review. I like your take on product reviews so much that you could review medical equipment and I'd watch. My wife and I love your channel!
It's your channel, so you do what you have to. I came to your channel at the very beginning of this channel, because you were the only one who reviewed things I can actually afford. I don't watch any other audio channels for that particular reason, I can't afford the things they talk about. If you stop reviewing cheaper stuff, I'll stop watching for that same reason. But I'm sure other people don't feel the same way as I do. You taught me so much about audio, and you're responsible for the system I have today. So no matter where the chips fall, thank you for all your help. 🙂
Happy and disappointed at same time. You do you sir, build your brand, I'm sure your fans will follow you anywhere. I just recently found channel so at least I can watch your older videos for gear that I can afford.
Do what your heart tells you to do, Randy! You’ve done a great job on the cheap stuff for quite a while now, why not move up a rung or two? As a cheap audio man myself, I moved up, but I like learning about equipment that might be a little out of my budget, but will then recognize as a good buy when it comes up as a used item. Love your channel!
Hey Randy, I appreciate all of the products you review regardless of price. I am more in the midfi range, not the ultra inexpensive gear myself. I think as long the equipment you review represents a good value for the dollar, that's what's important. What's cheap to one person is expensive to another and vise versa.
I support your interest in becoming familiar with the performance of products in the next few tiers. Otherwise, how can you reliably report on the performance of the affordable stuff?
Hi Randy, like to see you going to play with room treatment. Please Do. Maybe do a whole series of frequency measurement and room correction, maybe even CheapAM DIY. You said you listen in non-treated rooms - normal most common rooms, we all have that and it all sound different. Having a somewhat treated room makes for a reference not a guess. My audio journey will be first the room treatment then any new gear. When we moved in into our empty house and talked with a carpenter in a completely empty room, we could not understand each other even when standing beside - the echo made it hard to "resolve". It got better after we brought in the furniture, but I suspect it can be much much better with treatment before a new gear could make a real difference. Regarding your not so cheap heading - no matter an AudioMan you are - we all like to see things we can and cannot afford. Please go on, review, be honest, suggest cheaper alternatives, but don't sell your passion. This could be a journey from cheap to lasting quality.
Hey Randy , cool fun video, sound like this all part of your growth and ability to make more comprehensive reviews so the change is understood. Thanx for the tips and recommendations, also have some friends with a thriving mom and pop hi Fi store here in metro Detroit area, I had the fortune of hearing the bigger brother of what you have , the A. Jones MOFI 10 inch version concentric speakers , definitely enjoyed the hell out of them they were driven by rogue tube mono blocks and Rogue preamp and Cocktail audio x45 DAC / high res audio player/cd ripper Sounded great I have to agree with you , didn’t miss the subwoofer. Keep up the great work man!!🙏🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽💥
3K is a little past my comfort zone in buying a speaker made in China. I'm sure it's nice and all but going forward I'd be a bit worried about product support. The Klipsch Heresy is the same price and I know I can get full factory support. I think my mind has a cutoff point somewhere between 1K and 2K in my willingness to consider Chinese stuff. I have a lot of Chi-fi and love it but it wasn't a couple mortgage payments for a pair of speakers. Now that I think about it, my mind has a cutoff point between 1K and 2K no matter what.
Nothing wrong with GROWTH. That Michell Tecnodec looks 💥🔥🔥🔥. HOWEVER, are you sure it's selling for 1k? I am so taken by it's looks that I did a quick search and alas, I am only seeing pricing that is double. Regardless, still looking forward to seeing it in more detail on your channel.
Here is my current system. What piece of equipt would you add? Onkyo TX NR6100 Home Theater Reciever 7.2. 100 watt/channel. $555 Fluance T85. Ortiphon. 2m Blue Cartridge 2 KLH Kendall Tower Speakers. 1 KLH Story Center Channel 1 SVS PB 1000 SUB 10" 2 Audio Lab Orb Mod2 Surrounds Thanks for what you do. Bob
room treatments make a huge difference I find. I have a small theater and the bass trapping in the corners helps more than anything. You can see and hear the differences in Dirac
Room treatment from my experience: 1000$ best invested ever (5 absorber panels, 2 diffuser/absorber), more value/money than any component you can buy (except maybe going from 1$ speaker to 1001$ speaker:)
I was introduced to stereo gear through your channel a while back ago. I'm happy to hear the news and I'm looking forward to the videos as I have moved up the ladder with some equipment.
You should try the KEF R3 Meta for an amazing higher priced speaker. The original R3 was $2200 and the Meta hasn't gone up. It's the same price, for a real upgrade. You should also try something from Focal. They have a bit of a lift in the treble, which you usually like, and a very high quality detailed sound, without the midrange suckout and overly hot tweeters of B&Ws.
Love it. There seems to be a big hole in RUclips reviews between the sub $1000 equipment and the above $3000 pieces. I don't really want a desktop dac or amp for my main system no matter how good that latest SMSL/Topping/Ayima stuff is but I also don't want to get suckered by the big brands sprinkling magical audio dust on their components and charging 5 grand. Think there is great potential in the middle ground.
Mr. Cheap A, I have wanted you to head towards this route a few months ago. Like so many others, I started with cheap stuff and loved it! At some point you step up to the next level and just fall in love with music all over again. I believe there's is a niche here. I have found amazing high end speakers and equipment on the used market, which is fine as long as you know what to look for. So far I have found ESS Monitor speakers (amazing tweets), Parasound amps and Pioneer Elite stuff. I also traded a pair of Kef speakers for a stack of Nakamichi equip that included a CA-7A preamp that is by far the best I've heard. I am excited about the way you're headed and cant wait to see more. Good Luck!!
The RUclips channel Darko Audio has a great episode with room treatment with a before and after. He basically lives in a box of concrete with enamel tiles on the floor, so it's hardly surprising that his hifi-experience got better with some dampening in strategic spots.
I like cheap, my present system is about equivalent to 4 months wage in the UK & for that I have rega3, marantz cd & amp both 6007's with Bowers & Wilkins 607 s2 sa's downstairs & a laptop upstairs with 3000 flac albums, a cheap nobsound ns-01g pro bluetooth5 amp ( your fault) & q acoustic 3020i's. You need different priced equipment to cover different situations & you do it good for an american lol.
Steve Huff had a really thought provoking and informative video regarding upgrading and at what cost relative to improvements titled "High End Audio. Is it REALLY Better?". My suggestion is to watch that as a guide to where you can put your energy in upgrading from cheaper gear to more expensive gear covering the tradeoffs, benefits and risks, how to obtain system synergy, as well as managing one's own desires and insecurities in this hobby. There is a point where one doesn't necessarily have to keep spending to reach a level where they can just enjoy the music rather than chasing after unicorns and the newest stuff. Keep the Cheapaudioman channel for just that, inexpensive but underrated performance gear, and start a new channel for upgrading and what it entails. You could call it the UpgradeAudioMan or something catchy. It could cover going from standmount to floorstanders, vice-versa, anything that helps someone in their decision making process. As to dollar amount limits...watch the mentioned video for guidance, it was very enlightening.
Uh oh Randy, my first comment. Really good channel. So, room correction....can I do a story? I had been experimenting with a lot of used speakers in the classifieds since the area was rich, but decided to take a trip to Best Buy Magnolia in Salt Lake City. I went into the demo room and listened to all of the speakers that I was interested in , one of which was the Martin Logan Motion 40s. The lights were real low so I could not really see the speakers that were playing. I was really super impressed with the detail and sound stage, but I told the salesman to turn off the center and any surround speakers and his reply was "that is two speakers sir". Couldn't' believe it. Actually, to this day, I still haven't heard any sound stage like that presentation. Well of course I bought them, took them home and set them up. But I could not get that insane sound stage. So I get my acoustics-learn on via RUclips and got a hold of some material about treating first reflections and some other acoustic terms that I can't remember right now. I bought some of that acoustic foam that looks like an accordion fold and they did not help me get that Best Buy demo experience. I tried two orientations on the main floor, no joy. Took them to the basement and treated the room. No joy. Put the speakers on another wall, no joy. Just couldn't get that sound stage. Moral of the story is the acoustics matter in a big way. Dude...the sound stage spanned an entire wall at that Best Buy and I have no idea how to achieve it.
E-row-ah-ka. Also, room treatment is very important. It can make a good mediocre system sound great. Not done carefully or lack of room treatment can make a great system sound lousy or just plain blah. It can be expensive and difficult to get right. But get it right & it will bring tears of joy.
The way I see it is these less "cheap" audio reviews will give you comparative data to see how the "cheap" audio stacks up. The Eversolo A6 vs the Wiim Pro is a great example.
Waaay to go Randy! 🎉🎉 the everydayaudioman? I’m just hoping you wont forget about us normal folk and pass the 2-3k $ mark. Looking forward to that Lintons review. Those are on my wishlist, but I don’t have where to put em. (Currently running Luminas II /w asw608). Keep up the good work and please bring more products from the “entry” (mid) range of hifi. It will be exciting to compare it with the cheap stuff!
thank you for video being cheapaudioman doesn't mean being only cheap having differnet budgets in mind and staying local to cheap audio is the best you can do
You mentioned room treatments. They made a pretty big difference for me. Most speakers measure very similarly in a anechoic chamber. Talking to a few people who have designed speakers, they tend to sound very similar to each other as well. It is generally the room that you hear and how the speaker reacts with it. I.e, the difference between open baffle and a bass reflex being a big one. A speaker could be very resolving and super low distortion, but if it doesn't work well with a room, you'll hear it. Acoustic treatments help with a lot of these issues. I think this is part of the reason that Klipsch does so well on lower end systems. The directivity of the horn comes through very clearly. Same with open baffle canceling out the side waves etc
Look up Anthony grimani . He has a few webinars that explain room acoustics. Very interesting. You'll quickly see that two panels by themselves probably aren't going to cut it. But if you place them well, I think you'll probably hear a difference
In the US retail landscape there's typically good, better and best of all manner of things, including audio gear. It's been great that you've targeted the entry level market of gear in your content. And I think it's perfectly OK to review beyond a certain self imposed price range for some of your videos. The DMP A6 appears to have enough features and a matching price point to make it a contender for budget minded folks who are willing to stretch in some instances. Though "Cheap" is in the channel name, I think showcasing product that comes along and offers a big bank for the buck is helpful for your subscribers and I appreciate you for doing so. I have a Wiim Pro still in the box that I just got during Prime days. I'm thinking of returning it and saving up for the Eversolo. That screen looks really nice (as well as the twin chip DAC)!
I think that is great. I was wondering if you could speak of ration Cost/Quality if you did not listen to more expensive speaker. For me the "Cheapman" is about what is the best quality for the buck. And sometime I assume that we could be inviting to know that more quality can be worth the price. Good work.
The Audio Technica at-lp120xusb looks like its trying to take on the Technics SL-1200 MK7. It depends on application. The SL-1200 weighs a lot more indicating a higher level of quality appropriate for use in clubs and venues where the vibration that comes with the venue audio systems pushing in excess of 7000WRMS that requires the turntables to negate vibrational interference. The USB interfaces in those environments are not necessary as the turntables are mostly used as a control interface with timecoded vinyl that controls DJ software like Native Instruments Traktor Scratch / Traktor Pro & Serato Scratch that comes with their own mixer/audio interfaces. It will be interesting the specifics of that usb audio interface particularly snr, sample rate, bit depth and supported codec formats.
You are right the "cheap" in cheapaudioman is relative, I always felt you were really the high value audio man. What really counts is how you have a passion for this and do not talk down to people or get too full of your self. Just keep being the cool Randy us old heads got into watching in 2020 and it will be all good.
Sorry but there's lots of folks doing high end stuff with all the test gear and specialized rooms, stands, and equipment. Being on the lower end of the cost scale was a particular niche that made folks come and take a look at these videos. Don't try to say $1300 USD streamers and $2750 USD Speakers are cheap. Not a chance. Just looks like someone is selling out.
Love it. I say unapologetically review what you want. Agree with many others that it’s your sincerely and style of review that brings us here. Also, people use power cables that cost what the SP8s so “cheap” is mostly ubiquitous. Frankly I’d love for you use a Mola Mola Kula with the DAC car for a couple of weeks just to see what you think. I know where you can get your hands on one…..
Looking forward to seeing the more expensive stuff you have coming. I think those only qualify as a tie for the most expensive speaker, the Klipsch Heresy lV's were also 3k. I don't know how I got signed in under this name, this is Tulsa Tony.
I like cheap, love cheap. I firmly believe in staying below the charted intersection of price increase vs gains. I've always called it frugal, but when someone says I'm cheap, I proudly roll with it. But I do agree that you have to listen to expensive stuff so you can compare the frugal range items and see how they stack-up.
Love more variety and price points, because no one wants to be a cheap audioman forever. Though, it would be cool to see more vintage gear featured once in awhile. It can be a risk but it can also be a great way to get amazing performance for cheap. I picked up a Denon DP-52F the other day that is a technical marvel. Nothing made today comes close.
Good, this channel has been around for a while and there are only so many "cheap" audio products one can review. Fosi, Aiyima, SMSL, plus various mostly ch fi audio products (not that there is anything wrong with that). Honestly some of your reviews are rinse and repeat at this point. Not because of anything you are doing, but it's not like the next gen say, SMSL DAC is going to be light years ahead of the previous model considering how many DAC's they release the year. Cheap is always relative and while I'm sure many will complain there's only so many bookshelf speakers and amps and DAC's under 500 US. Can barely cover full size tower speakers or somewhat higher end subs for that price so glad to see you branch out to some higher end stuff also. While I know stereo audio tends to be your main focus I would love to hear your take on the Nakamichi DRAGON 11.4.6 Home Surround Sound System. While 3.5K they are insane spec wise like quad subs in a push pull configuration and the main soundbar being made of all aluminum. They had to get a car manufacturer to make it because nobody made metal fronts. Ribbon tweeters, adjustable up firing speakers on the rears and I believe 30 digital amps in total. Also has the FULL Dolby Atmos software as most soundbar setups get a lesser version although I believe it has more to do with the number of channels more than anything else.
I would argue that room treatment is far more important for RECORDING than it is for listening. If you know how to get your stereo field exactly where you want it with appropriate reflections off both the front AND the back of your speakers, you're gonna be fine without it. Also, looking forward to the full review of the LP120X. I've been eyeing that turntable for a long time now, and it may just be my next major audio purchase in a couple of months.
Randy, you are hitting the nail on the head. This stuff, I may actually buy. Chinese cheap is OK, but not for me. I like "expensiver" Chinese stuff I'd like to get your take on the QA Concept 300's. I'm thinking my fronts are blown and don't think I am going Klipsch this time.
I review products from in the hundreds to thirty thousand bucks and more. I still love a great inexpensive product! In a sea of high price tags finding a "diamond in the rough" high-value high-end components is still one of the most exciting moments for me!!
I don’t care for Emotiva. Tried the pt2? Preamp mated to the Basx 2 channel playing through the B2+. Sound is way too bright. Wife says it makes her ears bleed at high volume. Of all the products you’ve presented I think the Wiim Pro is a winner. Pity Spotify is not HD.
I like the direction That you are going Randy. I think that people love the channel because it relates to their wallet, but it also limits you as a reviewer. I think trying more expensive stuff as it relates to the cheaper stuff and even finding cheaper stuff that can compete somewhat at a price point is where the interest is. Having some more expensive stuff will make you more well rounded and spice up the channel as long as you don’t lose your main focus that you can get great audio and not pay higher dollar amounts. I do have a cartridge recommendation for you that will provide both shock and awe, it is the Hana Series of phono cartridges, and the ML in particular, the E and S series are also quite good. I think they would send you one over (the parent company is Excel) and you would be shock at how this cartridge competes with the bigger boys.
CheapAudioMan... can you cover Pyle / Donner / Moukey equipment? I was wondering how they stacked up- compared to 'regular, more traditional' manufacturers. Thanks
Love all the information you provide, I have been adding peice by peice of new equipment that you have suggested in your videos. Yes, you are enjoyable to watch no matter the equipment you talk about 😊
Head to squarespace.com/cheapaudioman to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code cheapaudioman
Eversolo DMP A6 amzn.to/3QgMk4n
Mofi Sourcepoint 8's howl.me/ckhbCAFxR7Z
Emotiva DR1 Emotiva DR1 Monoblock Amplifier bit.ly/3LBNzY8
Thanks for the short rundown on the Eversolo. I had believed it had EARC input/output, which it doesn't. Still torn if I should get it, without the EARC.
The frugal audioman, the inexpensive audio dude, the kind, the thoughtful and HONEST audio Mister...whatever label you need to add to further your career, rock on, Randy...you are much appreciated!
My only problem with these reviews is that they are purely subjective, there are no instrumented tests involved for frequency response, etc. So every time i watch a review from here, i take it with multiple grains of salt.
It's not necessarily the "cheap" part that brings me here. It's the personality and honest, down to earth reviews. I'd listen to you review anything no matter the price 👍
^This. Very much this.
Definitely the personality! Yeah, the Eroica reminds me of a box of condoms also.
That's it.
I don’t know, Randy, I don’t think it’s a good idea to enter into the crowded “higher end” segment. I already watch Andrew Robinson, John Darko, and Simon’s the 13th Note channels to educate myself on the audiofile product range. I watch you to look at stuff I’m more likely to buy. In fact, my listening room consists of only stuff you’ve reviewed. So why compete in an already crowded market when you already lead the market in your “cheap audio” segment?
I sometimes think about, "why did I stop watching that RUclips Channel?" This is why. I will check back now and again. There are already a bunch of higher end reviewers out there. ~best of luck!
Good Value Audioman. There are still good value components up to the $2-$3k range and higher. I also agree with what you said that trying out more mid-fi products will help you evaluate the truly budget gear and determine the so called "Giant Killers" of audio. Cheap and budget is different for everyone. I feel there are lots of budget components that pop up weekly due to Chinese manufacturers and pay wages..but no need to exclude higher priced or mid-tier gear if you are able to get your hands and ears on it. It doesn't take long for certain types of audio enthusiast's to move on past buying ultra budget gear, they would love to see videos every once in awhile of products they might actually buy. Rock on people!
Well stated. A friend of mine worked doing research for Harman Kardon and Bang and Olufsen. He and his team found equal sound quality/resolution blind testing systems costing 50.000 usd and 6.000 usd. Sound signature was different, but nobody felt one or the other was superior.
The 6.000 usd system is not cheap, but value? You bet.
Thanks Randy! I think your channel is going in the right direction. You are spot on with having to test the more expensive gear to see how it stacks up with the entry level gear. That way you can intelligently point out where the law of diminishing returns is and help people find real value in hi-fi gear. Keep up the great work and enjoy the next couple months being the "Value" Audioman!
There are values to be found in every price range!!! Keep bringing your findings to us Randy! Just because I can't afford a Corvette doesn't mean I don't want know about it...
Randy, I'm looking forward to your impressions on "diminishing returns" on spending up on components.
Just keep it at "affordable audio" and we'll be good. The main thing is not to get caught up in the BS surrounding the more ridiculous end of the audio spectrum. Like a lot of hobbies, there's a point of very rapidly diminishing returns in hifi.
« Affordable » is a trap. There’s a lot of BS around the cheap stuff with big claims such as « punches way above its weight ». So you buy an SMSL amp and then you hear that Fosi audio sells a better amp for less money. And you end up with 6 or 7 amps. You could have just bought a good AB amp.
The only thing missing from inexpensive audio reviews that anyone does: a reference.
IE:
"This SMSL amp performs at 90% or 100% of the level of this (exact name) amp that costs $(price)"
These speakers cost only $299, but the outperform the (exact name) speaker that costs 2--3x as much.
This is not the only channel that does this.
The vagaries like "Sounds like a $XXXX. dollar amp! Not a concrete comparison.
Instead of the emotiva b1+ beats speakers costing 2x as much
IE: "The emotiva b1+ at $279 easily outperform the elac DBR 6 which are $399. Reasons a,b,c.
Dropping names solidifies the conviction of the review products praise.
Stick with value-based products. In my case, I care about products that are affordable TO ME. That available range is broad enough to include hardware worth up to several thousands. I am happy/content with my system presently but I always keep an eye out for GOOD stuff.
So GOOD VALUE is a good goal for your reviews.
Yeah I’m happy my gear as well, but hey, ya never know when something interesting catches our eyes and tugs at our wallets.
We will still be here to support you Randy. You are responsible for my Schiit Saga S, Mani, Geshelli J2, WIIM Pro and now my Q Acoustics 3050s are arriving today! I don't mind watching how the upper echelons of the audiophile world live. I am a man of simple tastes but I can appreciate the craftsmanship of a high quality product. Ready when you are sir.
Let me know how you like the 3050’s. I’ve had mine for a month and they’re getting better. I had a pair of 3030i’s and was blown away. So, I was confused when thee 3050 were so cheap. Well, they just didn’t have that sparkle the 3030i’s have. I’m getting ready to start picking up there 5000 series gear. Q Acoustics makes great speakers. I’ll end up using my 3050’s for surround speakers. I know, off for a floor speaker to be surround, but my den is weird and can support them. Good luck!
@@s.daniel9224 I will. They HAVE to be better than the old Bose 201's that I got from the thrift store for my left and right channels :)
Agree with the “listen to higher tier stuff to rank lower cost stuff” perspective. Been in audio over 50 years and usually bought used to keep cost down. I just bought my ‘ bucket list’ speakers…Tannoy Stirling GR’s. Wouldn’t have fully appreciated them without the speakers in my past.
@Click-here_to-Massage--_--- what would it be?
I Get IT - This gives You More Product Options to Demo and Portray on Your Site 👌 💵
Re. room treatment, I found a local builder and had them custom made and it was a significant improvement. My room has hard wood floors, two large windows, glass french doors... Same materials, (chose acoustic fabrics and frequently recommended batting) and it has helped immeasurably. And not as expensive as you might think. Lots of channels where you can learn how to test your room and learn how much you need to treat.
I'd rather have the Authentic Audio Man than the cheap one any day. Keep up the good work! Do what you love!
Do what you do best Randy. Reviewing Audio equipment no matter the cost. As long as you don’t become one of those reviewers that don’t even listen to the products or don’t have any hands on experience with the equipment you are talking about…you are golden! Great video. Great content as always!
I listened to his 10” version on a 10,000 BAT tube amp. In his treated room. Glad you liked them.
And room treatment is huge. I custom made my panels out of wood frames and wool insulation.
I’ve been using ATS Acoustics sound dampening panels for over a decade. The best place to start is on the sides at the 1st reflection points. Really helps clean up the mids and improves vocal clarity.
About time you’re diving into more expensive gear - also with the aim to compare it with inexpensive audio… So many amps, dac’s and loudspeakers up to £ 2500 - 3000 worth every penny!
Just curious why is a high price for stuff in this hobby so important? Is it a bragging thing?
honestly understanding room acoustics and getting panels was the biggest eye opener for me in my audio journey as a producer/engineer/enjoyment listener, I think a common problem is people typically will have too much high-end deadening when in reality they need bass traps and a more lively top end. but diffusion at rear wall + panels in corners = solid upgrade for anyone looking for a little more sonic resolution. love your videos
You started the channel with the premise of “audio products don’t have to be expensive to be good and enjoyable” however, speakers at $3k is not even close at being “The Cheapaudioman!”
I remember how pleased and enthusiastic you were when you reach 100k subscribers, now getting close to the 200k the format is going to change. I hate to say it but the niche that got you where you are was fresh and appealing. Now, manufacturers are taking note of the channel and sending you products and products that you can keep might go to your head. So, I hope the new direction you are taking goes well for you.
Shhhhhhh you will ruffle the sheep but I agree with you there are plenty of high end reviewers here.
On the other hand, I don't watch when it is ANOTHER Topping review. All people can't be pleased all the time.
Waiting for huge savings on closeout models, as they make way for their replacements, is how I have built a decent system.
This approach works for me at least.
I also save and pay cash instead of credit buying.
Paying cash makes a person tend to wait, and when you wait, emotions wane, and sensibility prevails, and almost always waiting, will usually catch huge price drops.
I've found your last sentence to be VERY true, particularly the "emotions wane" part.
Digging the Loki circa “Battle of New York” hair style!
Great video as always, good sir!
You are right: This is not cheap audio.
You should change your name.
I can’t do without the CHEAP Audio Man for a whole month!
I spent about $1000 for acoustical panels and they look good but hard to say they improved the sound quality. However, it really is a separate science that requires specific placement to overcome room issues.
Just me, but I pretty much skip reviews of any equipment over $1000, which is already about twice my expected budget.
I mean, more budget speakers from Amazon would be nice, I feel like I've seen too much out of my budget, some krk vs presonus would be cool
I spent about a 1500 on a no holds barred acoustic treatment from GIK based on a spare bedroom. I Sent them the room layout with exact dimensions and they sent me three options- ranging from about 500, 1000, and finally 1500. (That included taxes and shipping). It was like night and day .. the improvement in sound is very hard to believe. It’s like being in a recording studio. Yeah, it can be done cheaper. But anyone not doing it is missing out on a lot. It is by far the best improvement I ever made to a home audio setup.
I’m very budget conscience so spending that kind of money was terrifying .. but is was not much more than the Zu Omens I bought a few months before. Those Omens sound frikin spectacular now. Like I said- night and day.
Anyone serious about reviewing audio gear in an untreated room is not serious about reviewing audio equipment.
I miss the Sith Audio ads from the early days 😂😂 glad to see things growing so well man
You'll always be the 'Valueaudioman' to me brother. You reawakened my musical passions and enjoyment and not least, you have enriched my life as a whole with your advice and friendship. Inflation affects us all, but your down to earth honesty and reviews remain the most valuable to me, but before I get blasted for having a 'bromance', I will stop praising you and just say keep doing what you are doing and share with us, all that interests you, and take us along for the ride.
Oh man I agree 100%, count me in for the bromance!!!
@@Brian_Romska you're amongst the counted, mate.
Idea: test out lyngdorfs tdai-1120
Room correction, tidal connect, spotify connect, airplay, bluetooth, dlna, hdmi, digital bass management, amazing sound.
You'll always be Cheap Audioman no matter what you review. I like your take on product reviews so much that you could review medical equipment and I'd watch. My wife and I love your channel!
It's your channel, so you do what you have to. I came to your channel at the very beginning of this channel, because you were the only one who reviewed things I can actually afford. I don't watch any other audio channels for that particular reason, I can't afford the things they talk about. If you stop reviewing cheaper stuff, I'll stop watching for that same reason. But I'm sure other people don't feel the same way as I do.
You taught me so much about audio, and you're responsible for the system I have today. So no matter where the chips fall, thank you for all your help. 🙂
Room treatment can be reasonable, as long as you know what you need. REW is free software, and just needs a USB mic.
Happy and disappointed at same time. You do you sir, build your brand, I'm sure your fans will follow you anywhere. I just recently found channel so at least I can watch your older videos for gear that I can afford.
Do what your heart tells you to do, Randy!
You’ve done a great job on the cheap stuff for quite a while now, why not move up a rung or two?
As a cheap audio man myself, I moved up, but I like learning about equipment that might be a little out of my budget, but will then recognize as a good buy when it comes up as a used item.
Love your channel!
Hey Randy, I appreciate all of the products you review regardless of price. I am more in the midfi range, not the ultra inexpensive gear myself. I think as long the equipment you review represents a good value for the dollar, that's what's important. What's cheap to one person is expensive to another and vise versa.
I support your interest in becoming familiar with the performance of products in the next few tiers. Otherwise, how can you reliably report on the performance of the affordable stuff?
Hi Randy, like to see you going to play with room treatment. Please Do. Maybe do a whole series of frequency measurement and room correction, maybe even CheapAM DIY. You said you listen in non-treated rooms - normal most common rooms, we all have that and it all sound different. Having a somewhat treated room makes for a reference not a guess.
My audio journey will be first the room treatment then any new gear. When we moved in into our empty house and talked with a carpenter in a completely empty room, we could not understand each other even when standing beside - the echo made it hard to "resolve". It got better after we brought in the furniture, but I suspect it can be much much better with treatment before a new gear could make a real difference.
Regarding your not so cheap heading - no matter an AudioMan you are - we all like to see things we can and cannot afford. Please go on, review, be honest, suggest cheaper alternatives, but don't sell your passion. This could be a journey from cheap to lasting quality.
Thank You Randy, wow I am very interested in the Eversolo DMP A6
Hey Randy , cool fun video, sound like this all part of your growth and ability to make more comprehensive reviews so the change is understood. Thanx for the tips and recommendations, also have some friends with a thriving mom and pop hi Fi store here in metro Detroit area, I had the fortune of hearing the bigger brother of what you have , the A. Jones MOFI 10 inch version concentric speakers , definitely enjoyed the hell out of them they were driven by rogue tube mono blocks and Rogue preamp and Cocktail audio x45 DAC / high res audio player/cd ripper Sounded great I have to agree with you , didn’t miss the subwoofer. Keep up the great work man!!🙏🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽💥
3K is a little past my comfort zone in buying a speaker made in China. I'm sure it's nice and all but going forward I'd be a bit worried about product support. The Klipsch Heresy is the same price and I know I can get full factory support. I think my mind has a cutoff point somewhere between 1K and 2K in my willingness to consider Chinese stuff. I have a lot of Chi-fi and love it but it wasn't a couple mortgage payments for a pair of speakers. Now that I think about it, my mind has a cutoff point between 1K and 2K no matter what.
Well, it's not exactly expensive hi-fi equipment, something mid-range. Nice that you cover all levels.👍
You know, as cheap audio consumers have dreams and hopes too!
I’ve had mine for almost two months now. Paired with my Yamaha A-S2200. With Polk L200. Sounds amazing!
Nice lineup!! May not all be cheap audioman, but I am very interested in these 😊
Nothing wrong with GROWTH. That Michell Tecnodec looks 💥🔥🔥🔥. HOWEVER, are you sure it's selling for 1k? I am so taken by it's looks that I did a quick search and alas, I am only seeing pricing that is double. Regardless, still looking forward to seeing it in more detail on your channel.
Here is my current system. What piece of equipt would you add?
Onkyo TX NR6100 Home Theater Reciever
7.2. 100 watt/channel. $555
Fluance T85.
Ortiphon. 2m Blue Cartridge
2 KLH Kendall Tower Speakers.
1 KLH Story Center Channel
1 SVS PB 1000 SUB 10"
2 Audio Lab Orb Mod2 Surrounds
Thanks for what you do. Bob
room treatments make a huge difference I find. I have a small theater and the bass trapping in the corners helps more than anything. You can see and hear the differences in Dirac
This was great fun! You report on whatever you want! There’s only so much $100 chifi you can do.
Room treatment from my experience: 1000$ best invested ever (5 absorber panels, 2 diffuser/absorber), more value/money than any component you can buy (except maybe going from 1$ speaker to 1001$ speaker:)
I was introduced to stereo gear through your channel a while back ago. I'm happy to hear the news and I'm looking forward to the videos as I have moved up the ladder with some equipment.
You should try the KEF R3 Meta for an amazing higher priced speaker. The original R3 was $2200 and the Meta hasn't gone up. It's the same price, for a real upgrade. You should also try something from Focal. They have a bit of a lift in the treble, which you usually like, and a very high quality detailed sound, without the midrange suckout and overly hot tweeters of B&Ws.
Love it. There seems to be a big hole in RUclips reviews between the sub $1000 equipment and the above $3000 pieces. I don't really want a desktop dac or amp for my main system no matter how good that latest SMSL/Topping/Ayima stuff is but I also don't want to get suckered by the big brands sprinkling magical audio dust on their components and charging 5 grand. Think there is great potential in the middle ground.
Mr. Cheap A, I have wanted you to head towards this route a few months ago. Like so many others, I started with cheap stuff and loved it! At some point you step up to the next level and just fall in love with music all over again. I believe there's is a niche here. I have found amazing high end speakers and equipment on the used market, which is fine as long as you know what to look for.
So far I have found ESS Monitor speakers (amazing tweets), Parasound amps and Pioneer Elite stuff. I also traded a pair of Kef speakers for a stack of Nakamichi equip that included a CA-7A preamp that is by far the best I've heard. I am excited about the way you're headed and cant wait to see more. Good Luck!!
So even used I have to spend a lot of money to enjoy my music?
Carry on Randy. Love the reviews of the affordable gear. Look forward to this change coming. Should be exciting. All the best.
The RUclips channel Darko Audio has a great episode with room treatment with a before and after. He basically lives in a box of concrete with enamel tiles on the floor, so it's hardly surprising that his hifi-experience got better with some dampening in strategic spots.
I like cheap, my present system is about equivalent to 4 months wage in the UK & for that I have rega3, marantz cd & amp both 6007's with Bowers & Wilkins 607 s2 sa's downstairs & a laptop upstairs with 3000 flac albums, a cheap nobsound ns-01g pro bluetooth5 amp ( your fault) & q acoustic 3020i's. You need different priced equipment to cover different situations & you do it good for an american lol.
Steve Huff had a really thought provoking and informative video regarding upgrading and at what cost relative to improvements titled "High End Audio. Is it REALLY Better?". My suggestion is to watch that as a guide to where you can put your energy in upgrading from cheaper gear to more expensive gear covering the tradeoffs, benefits and risks, how to obtain system synergy, as well as managing one's own desires and insecurities in this hobby. There is a point where one doesn't necessarily have to keep spending to reach a level where they can just enjoy the music rather than chasing after unicorns and the newest stuff.
Keep the Cheapaudioman channel for just that, inexpensive but underrated performance gear, and start a new channel for upgrading and what it entails.
You could call it the UpgradeAudioMan or something catchy. It could cover going from standmount to floorstanders, vice-versa, anything that helps someone in their decision making process. As to dollar amount limits...watch the mentioned video for guidance, it was very enlightening.
Uh oh Randy, my first comment. Really good channel. So, room correction....can I do a story? I had been experimenting with a lot of used speakers in the classifieds since the area was rich, but decided to take a trip to Best Buy Magnolia in Salt Lake City. I went into the demo room and listened to all of the speakers that I was interested in , one of which was the Martin Logan Motion 40s. The lights were real low so I could not really see the speakers that were playing. I was really super impressed with the detail and sound stage, but I told the salesman to turn off the center and any surround speakers and his reply was "that is two speakers sir". Couldn't' believe it. Actually, to this day, I still haven't heard any sound stage like that presentation. Well of course I bought them, took them home and set them up. But I could not get that insane sound stage. So I get my acoustics-learn on via RUclips and got a hold of some material about treating first reflections and some other acoustic terms that I can't remember right now. I bought some of that acoustic foam that looks like an accordion fold and they did not help me get that Best Buy demo experience. I tried two orientations on the main floor, no joy. Took them to the basement and treated the room. No joy. Put the speakers on another wall, no joy. Just couldn't get that sound stage. Moral of the story is the acoustics matter in a big way. Dude...the sound stage spanned an entire wall at that Best Buy and I have no idea how to achieve it.
E-row-ah-ka. Also, room treatment is very important. It can make a good mediocre system sound great. Not done carefully or lack of room treatment can make a great system sound lousy or just plain blah. It can be expensive and difficult to get right. But get it right & it will bring tears of joy.
Love what you do,But living in the uk we cannot get most of the kit you kids can buy at a right price,you stay safe.
Proper room treatment makes more of a difference than switching dacs or similar powered amps.
I really would like to see you review some peachtree products. I think it's rather affordable audio equipment .
The way I see it is these less "cheap" audio reviews will give you comparative data to see how the "cheap" audio stacks up. The Eversolo A6 vs the Wiim Pro is a great example.
I’ve used cement form tubes, on chairs, beside my desktop system as my room treatment. It allows the sound to reach a bit behind my ears.
Waaay to go Randy! 🎉🎉 the everydayaudioman? I’m just hoping you wont forget about us normal folk and pass the 2-3k $ mark.
Looking forward to that Lintons review. Those are on my wishlist, but I don’t have where to put em. (Currently running Luminas II /w asw608).
Keep up the good work and please bring more products from the “entry” (mid) range of hifi. It will be exciting to compare it with the cheap stuff!
thank you for video
being cheapaudioman doesn't mean being only cheap
having differnet budgets in mind and staying local to cheap audio is the best you can do
You mentioned room treatments. They made a pretty big difference for me.
Most speakers measure very similarly in a anechoic chamber. Talking to a few people who have designed speakers, they tend to sound very similar to each other as well. It is generally the room that you hear and how the speaker reacts with it. I.e, the difference between open baffle and a bass reflex being a big one.
A speaker could be very resolving and super low distortion, but if it doesn't work well with a room, you'll hear it.
Acoustic treatments help with a lot of these issues.
I think this is part of the reason that Klipsch does so well on lower end systems. The directivity of the horn comes through very clearly. Same with open baffle canceling out the side waves etc
Look up Anthony grimani . He has a few webinars that explain room acoustics. Very interesting.
You'll quickly see that two panels by themselves probably aren't going to cut it. But if you place them well, I think you'll probably hear a difference
In the US retail landscape there's typically good, better and best of all manner of things, including audio gear. It's been great that you've targeted the entry level market of gear in your content. And I think it's perfectly OK to review beyond a certain self imposed price range for some of your videos. The DMP A6 appears to have enough features and a matching price point to make it a contender for budget minded folks who are willing to stretch in some instances. Though "Cheap" is in the channel name, I think showcasing product that comes along and offers a big bank for the buck is helpful for your subscribers and I appreciate you for doing so. I have a Wiim Pro still in the box that I just got during Prime days. I'm thinking of returning it and saving up for the Eversolo. That screen looks really nice (as well as the twin chip DAC)!
I think that is great. I was wondering if you could speak of ration Cost/Quality if you did not listen to more expensive speaker. For me the "Cheapman" is about what is the best quality for the buck. And sometime I assume that we could be inviting to know that more quality can be worth the price. Good work.
The Audio Technica at-lp120xusb looks like its trying to take on the Technics SL-1200 MK7.
It depends on application. The SL-1200 weighs a lot more indicating a higher level of quality appropriate for use in clubs and venues where the vibration that comes with the venue audio systems pushing in excess of 7000WRMS that requires the turntables to negate vibrational interference.
The USB interfaces in those environments are not necessary as the turntables are mostly used as a control interface with timecoded vinyl that controls DJ software like Native Instruments Traktor Scratch / Traktor Pro & Serato Scratch that comes with their own mixer/audio interfaces.
It will be interesting the specifics of that usb audio interface particularly snr, sample rate, bit depth and supported codec formats.
Excited about the Goldring carts and the Michell TTs. Looking for a dual arm capable TT.
Coming soon! The new adventures of "Moderately Priced" Audio Man!
You are right the "cheap" in cheapaudioman is relative, I always felt you were really the high value audio man. What really counts is how you have a passion for this and do not talk down to people or get too full of your self. Just keep being the cool Randy us old heads got into watching in 2020 and it will be all good.
Sorry but there's lots of folks doing high end stuff with all the test gear and specialized rooms, stands, and equipment. Being on the lower end of the cost scale was a particular niche that made folks come and take a look at these videos. Don't try to say $1300 USD streamers and $2750 USD Speakers are cheap. Not a chance. Just looks like someone is selling out.
Hey Randy, you should ask Ron to hook you up with Modwright PH9…that will really get the fellas some talking and clicking…
Because of you i have
1. Fluance Rt85
2. Ifi phono pre-amp
3. Bluesound node n130
4. Aiyima t9
5. CX-35
6. RP 600M
7. Denafrips ares ii
Love it. I say unapologetically review what you want. Agree with many others that it’s your sincerely and style of review that brings us here. Also, people use power cables that cost what the SP8s so “cheap” is mostly ubiquitous. Frankly I’d love for you use a Mola Mola Kula with the DAC car for a couple of weeks just to see what you think. I know where you can get your hands on one…..
Eliminate "Cheap" and just go with Audio Man. Sums up everything.
Shillspace audio man 😅
Looking forward to seeing the more expensive stuff you have coming. I think those only qualify as a tie for the most expensive speaker, the Klipsch Heresy lV's were also 3k. I don't know how I got signed in under this name, this is Tulsa Tony.
I like cheap, love cheap. I firmly believe in staying below the charted intersection of price increase vs gains. I've always called it frugal, but when someone says I'm cheap, I proudly roll with it.
But I do agree that you have to listen to expensive stuff so you can compare the frugal range items and see how they stack-up.
Love more variety and price points, because no one wants to be a cheap audioman forever. Though, it would be cool to see more vintage gear featured once in awhile. It can be a risk but it can also be a great way to get amazing performance for cheap. I picked up a Denon DP-52F the other day that is a technical marvel. Nothing made today comes close.
Good, this channel has been around for a while and there are only so many "cheap" audio products one can review. Fosi, Aiyima, SMSL, plus various mostly ch fi audio products (not that there is anything wrong with that). Honestly some of your reviews are rinse and repeat at this point. Not because of anything you are doing, but it's not like the next gen say, SMSL DAC is going to be light years ahead of the previous model considering how many DAC's they release the year.
Cheap is always relative and while I'm sure many will complain there's only so many bookshelf speakers and amps and DAC's under 500 US. Can barely cover full size tower speakers or somewhat higher end subs for that price so glad to see you branch out to some higher end stuff also.
While I know stereo audio tends to be your main focus I would love to hear your take on the Nakamichi DRAGON
11.4.6 Home Surround
Sound System. While 3.5K they are insane spec wise like quad subs in a push pull configuration and the main soundbar being made of all aluminum. They had to get a car manufacturer to make it because nobody made metal fronts. Ribbon tweeters, adjustable up firing speakers on the rears and I believe 30 digital amps in total. Also has the FULL Dolby Atmos software as most soundbar setups get a lesser version although I believe it has more to do with the number of channels more than anything else.
I would argue that room treatment is far more important for RECORDING than it is for listening. If you know how to get your stereo field exactly where you want it with appropriate reflections off both the front AND the back of your speakers, you're gonna be fine without it.
Also, looking forward to the full review of the LP120X. I've been eyeing that turntable for a long time now, and it may just be my next major audio purchase in a couple of months.
Love your videos brother.
I have used your reviews to help me build my modest, system.
Cheers
Randy, you are hitting the nail on the head. This stuff, I may actually buy. Chinese cheap is OK, but not for me. I like "expensiver" Chinese stuff
I'd like to get your take on the QA Concept 300's. I'm thinking my fronts are blown and don't think I am going Klipsch this time.
I review products from in the hundreds to thirty thousand bucks and more. I still love a great inexpensive product! In a sea of high price tags finding a "diamond in the rough" high-value high-end components is still one of the most exciting moments for me!!
How about the "Phony Audio Man"?
I love Audio Technica! Their turntables & cartridges! Anytime you wanna talk, "vinyl" is cool with me! I'll still enjoy your "expensive" month btw.
I don’t care for Emotiva. Tried the pt2? Preamp mated to the Basx 2 channel playing through the B2+. Sound is way too bright. Wife says it makes her ears bleed at high volume. Of all the products you’ve presented I think the Wiim Pro is a winner. Pity Spotify is not HD.
Cheap is not relative it is fundamental. It's ok to introduce us to expensive products but please don't lose sight of the cheap ones. :)
I like the direction That you are going Randy. I think that people love the channel because it relates to their wallet, but it also limits you as a reviewer. I think trying more expensive stuff as it relates to the cheaper stuff and even finding cheaper stuff that can compete somewhat at a price point is where the interest is.
Having some more expensive stuff will make you more well rounded and spice up the channel as long as you don’t lose your main focus that you can get great audio and not pay higher dollar amounts.
I do have a cartridge recommendation for you that will provide both shock and awe, it is the Hana Series of phono cartridges, and the ML in particular, the E and S series are also quite good. I think they would send you one over (the parent company is Excel) and you would be shock at how this cartridge competes with the bigger boys.
You will always remain the Cheap and Easy Audio Man in my heart 😢
CheapAudioMan... can you cover Pyle / Donner / Moukey equipment? I was wondering how they stacked up- compared to 'regular, more traditional' manufacturers. Thanks
Its good to review to review some more expensive gear. If you don't know the giants you'll never find the giant slayer.
Love all the information you provide, I have been adding peice by peice of new equipment that you have suggested in your videos. Yes, you are enjoyable to watch no matter the equipment you talk about 😊
"Expensive" is relative. It is different for each individual.