A few things I'd like to address as I'm seeing a lot of the same comments below. 1. I never say that speakers are a good investment in this video. In fact, I routinely caution viewers about looking at the hobby of hifi (or home theater) as an investment, because it isn't one. I have shared my personal horror stories about losing my a** on having to sell secondhand equipment. 2. I get that the word "invest" is used in the title, and I stand by its usage. Whether some want to admit it, many of you look at your hifi purchases through an investment-like lens; you weigh the performance-to-price ratio and try and get the best bang for your buck. You're on the hunt for an arbitrage opportunity --you want a speaker you can buy for cheap that performs or looks as if you spent more. If you could sell it for what you paid for it down the road, even better. These are "investing" or "investment-like" principles, and are in keeping with the spirit of this video. 3. This is not an end-all-be-all-be-all list. As stated at the top of this video, I decided to look at many hifi publications' Best Of lists for 2023/2022 and see which "award-winning" speakers fare best on the secondhand market. Obviously, had we opened this up to all speakers many of these examples like the Magico A5 would likely not make our Top 10 as its depreciation appears to be average to maybe even good all things considered. But when compared to so-called award-winning options, it may not be the "best" way to spend your money if you care about maximizing your hifi dollar --even in the high-end space. 4. The resale prices quoted in this video represent an average price that was arrived at by using examples from eBay, Facebook Marketplace and Audiogon.
This is a bit silly. As with any entertainment product like sports cars, speakers, all electronics, etc, the resale value plummets as soon as the box is opened. Of course $25k speakers will lose a ton of resale value. I've bought 2 used $15k+ audio components for less than $3k. These are not investments. They are meant to be used and enjoyed. It is a huge rarity to have audio worth more than its purchase price.
Wow, some seriously convoluted logic my friend. Simply say you made a mistake and speakers aren't investments. Or, just change the title if you can ;-) Otherwise, everything we purchase is an "investment" ;-)
I’ve bought used B&W speakers on multiple occasions, had them for several years and have either sold them at the same price or even a bit more than I paid. Then you have to ship them of course. Would not be surprised if UPS makes as much on a speaker as the mfg lol. The ROI is the experience of course!
It’s an investment, just not a financial investment. It’s an investment of one’s resources towards their life’s enjoyment. I typically stick with powered studio monitors which tend to hold their value pretty well. Ive bought and sold several used sets of monitors at almost no loss. This has allowed me to experiment with different styles of speakers without spending a fortune.
I just want to say I agree with point 2 personally. I definitely see it through that lens when I’m looking to buy or just watching RUclips videos without aiming to buy anything. Edit: Also nice job rocking the ‘stache, looks new to me.
Got a promotion at work today and I’m celebrating tonight listening to my stereo. I’m up in my listening space adjusting toe in and my sub and realized how much I’ve learned from you guys. Just want you to know that the enjoyment you provide to your viewers goes beyond the viewing period. You’ve taught me a whole new topic to think about which can last a lifetime. What more can I say but, thank you!
Honestly I'm surprised that some haven't lost more value. Why would anyone expect any audio equipment to hold it's value? It never has historically. Sure some pieces may be more desirable than others, and there's always someone willing to pay too much for something, but that doesn't mean YOU will find someone to pay that price. IDK seems expected and not mush of a shock to me.
It's usually worth buying more desirable equipment if you ever intend to sell it as its much easier to find a buyer and you'll get closer to the original price. It's of course highly variable and they'll always depreciate!
When you saturate the market with remakes and upgrades of speaker brands this is what you get. I’ve never considered buying speakers an investment. Buying a home is an investment.
Who thinks electronics or speakers are an investment? My $6500 Pioneer Elite plasma TV is worth $200 now, but it still works and it's still beautiful. My Revel Salon 2 speakers and Pass electronics will accompany me to the end. I don't care how much they sell for when I am gone. Is there any consumer product in any category that could be considered an investment? I can't think of anything that you can buy outside of the stock market and real estate that is going to increase in value.
Speakers are nothing more than a consumer goods. Never an investment only an expense. Hope yours last as long as the ones I purchased in 1988 and still working excellent
Hifi is mostly a poor investment anyway. However, I did fund my entire home theatre setup by buying and selling Marantz AVR's over 7 months on the second-hand market. They sell like hotcakes! Total investment was about 600 usd and I have a Marantz Cinema 50, XTZ edge a2-300, 7.2.4 canton speakers and an LG C1 83 inch!
Andrew - I appreciate the boldness of this video as most audio reviewers would not dare to bite the hand that feeds them! 95% of my system (Adcom, Von Schweikert, VPI, Oppo, Magnepan and Bluesound components) was bought on the secondary market for pennies on the dollar of its original cost. It is just a standard 2-channel system so it really does not need all the advancements of the past few years that primarily surround HT or audio streaming. As long as you are not one who feels the need for the “latest and greatest” or suffers from FOMO you can put together a better than average music system without fearing that you paid too much.
I got my JBL Studio 530 speakers waaay under MSRP. It had to be less than 50%. It’s not a financial investment, but certainly an enjoyable speaker to listen to.
I bought a pair of La Scala in 1974 for $575.00 ea in oiled walnut. They came a little cheaper in black or unfinished. I absolutely LOVED them. I drove them with a Macintosh MA 6100 integrated amp. Biggest regret was selling them after I got married in 80's. Should of sold the wife...😮💨
As a cash limited senior citizen I find what I want, then start looking for used. Bought a pair of Wharfedale EVO 4.3’s for $1200 Canadian, about half price and no tax. They weren’t even broke in. That took about 3 months more to do! I find most of my electronics used too. Some are dogs but a lot have never been optimized properly before dumping.
I’m a bit surprised about Klipsch heritage, luckily I got a VERY good deal on an open box pair of Cornwall iv’s (which I love). Would love to see “ the best to invest “ video even for integrated amps too. Thank you and happy new year!!
I got a pair of Thiel cs 2.2 (1992) from my dad, and they sound so good, that I can’t justify buying anything new anymore. They’re good enough, what a magical idea... lol
I just purchased a pair of La Ascalaspeakers for 1600 plus 30 dollars for the delivery fee . ( old owner charged me for his gas ) for his truck . So I got a pair of two yr old La Ascala for cheap .
Tempted to update my 15 year old PSB surround system speakers ( just because.... ) but once I upgraded to a new Pioneer LX505 and an Emotiva amp for the three front channels. It sounds fantastic & the speakers sound better than ever. One of the most surprising benefits was stellar centre channel ( dialogue ) clarity. Love your videos.
Hi guys. Happy New Yr. I just pulled the trigger on a pair of Klipsch Cornwall Cornwall IVs. I tend to hold on to my electronics especially speakers. Been a klipsch user for almost 40yrs. I got no skin in the game when it comes to resale. I plan to have these for life.
*Thank you for joining us today. How was everyone's holiday? What did you all do? Stay home, visit family, take a trip somewhere new? Hopefully, it was restorative, no matter how you spent it. I believe we took our longest break since starting the channel and it was awesome!*
In 1977 I bought a set of Altec Lansings mod 14's. The sound is great, and the cabinetry design and craftsmanship is outstanding. I still have and play them today and wouldn't give them up for anything. They're like a beautiful piece of furniture that sings.
You could change the title of this video to "Best speakers to buy on the used market." For the La Scalas, you have to find a pair within reasonable driving distance because I would imagine shipping those would cost a fortune. However, to pay less than $10,000 for a pair would be worth a long drive, even if it includes a hotel stay on the way. I don't buy speakers for the investment value so getting a pair I want to own at a steep discount is always going to be a good thing assuming the speakers aren't damaged.
Good morning Andrew. I enjoyed your video. I have the Arendal 1723 towers and I wondered about the low resale from $3,800 to $3,000. I had to search for a while to find any for resale. I did find one pair selling for $3,000 and a shipping fee of almost $500. Compared to the free shipping of $3,800 it is not that much of a drop. Keep up the great work. Thanks Vern
Hey Kristi and Andrew! Liking the new filming position (and the mustache). Great video to start up the year. Looking forward to another year of excellent reviews and other content👍🏼
That one was fun! I would love to see the best list. I’m glad to see my Model 5’s didn’t make this list (not that it matters I still love them). Can’t wait to see what you guys bring this year. have a great week
Oh dang Model 7 review? 😁 Saaaaaay whaaaat???? Looking forward to hearing about it! And by the way. Great video topic this week Andrew. I laughed out loud when you said "...and they're done!". 😆
How in the world did you miss KEF? They constantly go on sale and undercut their owners who might want to make a change, Imagine paying $1,599 for the LS50 Meta and then having KEF turn around and sell them for $999 all Xmas long!
I bought the klipsch rp600 m2 for black friday at $420, loved them and a week later saw a couple of rp8000f1 on sale for... $650! I got those bad boys instead and couldn't be happier. I know you have reviewed the f2s too and totally agree on the sound difference..but for $650 i mean, just like you said..it's a steal! ... I just paired them with a warmer center channel a cheap klpisch r120swi sub from Costco and wow... All your videos on placement, cross over and EQhave made a huge difference in my room. Thank you for all your reviews Andrew and Kristi and Happy 2024!
Mr. Robinson, as you are a fan of la scalas I will share my story. I was a jet engine tech working in Base Baden soligen germany. In our PX was a pair of la scalas sitting on the floor. over the year their price would drop as they needed the space. At the time our dollar was higher than the usd and 3 to 1 against the Germ DM. One day we had Paul Klipsch in our PX. These speakers were designed for his daughter who was getting married in La Escala spain and he built them for the outdoor celebrations. At least this is what Paul stated. 1984. I purchased the speakers for $400 apiece with no container but he did sign them. One solid box of 1 inch birch plywood. The speakers were amazing for the next 30 years and driven by a Quad amp/preamp. For the music I listened to unsurpassed. A house fire finally killed them. and now I see $17000 canadian which makes me cry.
Thanks for a different perspective on popular current speakers. Totally agree with both your comments at the end of the video. We don't buy these items as a monetary investment but more as an emotional one.
Maybe I’m old school, but I buy speaker to keep them. Unless I don’t like them out of the box (klipsch 600m ii). I just replaced my 20 year old B&W DM 302.
Heresy IV here. Would have gone for earlier model but none available at the time (isolated part of the globe). Cornwallis next when space allows OR … La Scala if even bigger space.
Bought Forte IIs in 2003, mint used back then for $900 shipped in the original boxes and foam inserts. Selling on Flea-Bay for $900-1200 today. A re-capped pair just went for $1700. After 21 years of use I'm going to declare I got my money's worth.
I’m sure many of the high value pieces are endgame speakers for most. If I ever decide to gut my game room and set it up as a listening space then buy Cornwall’s, it’s gonna be forever. All of my family prefers their music delivered via earbuds, I’m sure shortly after I meet my maker, they will appear on Craig’s List with OBO after the price.
A pair of loud speakers is not a financial investment vehicle. it’s a depreciating luxury asset. An investment like bonds or stocks is a financial product with a potential rate of return higher than inflation rate. A pair of loud speaker is an emotional investment for the purpose of enjoyment and to measure it by its monetary depreciation seems like a bizarre method. Of course the more expensive the speaker the higher the depreciation as these are total unnecessary luxury products. For example I bet a 100K pair will depreciate pretty hard too, but what does that say about the speaker or the enjoyment of listener. Or whether one should buy it or not. Most things in life are depreciating assets for example furniture and appliances . I don’t think people look at depreciation when buying furniture either. People might care about used car residual values as it is a. Significant amount for most people and b cars are not purely luxury and for some a necessity that has the be replaced.
I have a set of Canton Xi 270 speakers. A little larger than what can be classified as bookshelf size. Bought them in the early eighties and listened to them in a large variety of rooms as I moved around over the years. Had them re-coned once. I could play those German built speakers so loud it would blow the metal grills off! But several years ago I decided to upgrade to Klipsch R-820F’s. They are easily three times the size of my cherished Cantons. I decided to do an A/B comparison when I got a new receiver… I was shocked and dismayed that my Canton’s sounded equally good if not better. I will never part with my Cantons. Ever. Your video got me thinking I should look into selling my Klipsch and take a 25% haircut…
Glad I got my Cornwall IVs before the most recent inflation driven price hikes. But like a new car, the biggest depreciation will always be that first year. I can see the Cornwall and La Scala prices dropping rapidly initially. With their relatively high price, most people looking for them would just as soon buy new as get a 1-2 year old used one.
All I know is the brand “Keeps” is totally working. Not only a full head of hair, that mustache… had to do a double take. Thought Andrew was a cop for a second. 😆
Just bought some Definitive Technology Demand D15 towers that retailed for $3,400 in 2020 for $500 new! Crazy depreciation but I’m enjoying the cost savings!
I’ve had my system for over 20 years. I’ve had my speakers for over 5 years now. They still bring a smile to my face when I sit down and listen. As long as that continues to happen I won’t be upgrading anytime soon.
NO ONE expects audio to be a good investment. I'ts just like most automobiles: if it's not a rare collectible its value drops by at least 25% after you drive it off the new car lot (or off the audio showroom floor). The other problem with audio is that there are a profusion of brands and every time there is an audio show, a new brand becomes every critic's darling. The next year when a new brand or model shows up, your "darling" a year ago is hardly worth the shipping cost to sell it to someone else! (On the other hand, this depreciation makes the used audio market an especially good value.)
I just sold my A25 Dynacos yesterday for $200. They still have the $7.99 Goodwill price stickers on them. They are listed on EBay for $600. So we’re all happy. Now I’m home listening to my $160. SX-1250 and $300. JBL L300s. I’ve had for over twenty years. I’m set for life.
Thanks for making me feel better buying open box Cornwall IIIs and IVs! There is also a geographical element… I can’t sell mine here in N. NV for what I could have sold them for in Marin County two years ago
Not sure where you’re getting these secondhand values but depreciation of 70% because they know it’s not uncommon for dealers to discount a given model by 15-20% for the initial sale. It’s only very rare and highly coveted models that are an exception. Factory direct brands often have the best resale values because buyers know the original prices didn’t include the typical dealer markup.
We say at the top of this video where we got our average resale values. We took the average price of what we could find on ebay, Facebook Marketplace and Audiogon. As for factory direct brands not having dealer markup, this is very often not true. While they may not price their products (MSRP) to account for dealer margins, to suggest that those margins don't exist and that the manufacturer who is selling to you directly isn't keeping it for themselves, is wrong.
Look at the ratio of BOM/asking price for brands like Philharmonic and Ascend Acoustics. And to a lesser degree, Spatial Audio. The percentage of BOM relative to asking is far greater than you’ll find from any dealer-sold brand. And yes, some brands like Focal and KEF manufacture their own drivers and such, but those drivers are barely competitive with the entry-level stuff from Seas, Scanspeak, Morel et al. They like to market them as though they’re SOTA but they’re not. The true good stuff they reserve solely for their flagship products (Blade, Utopia, 800s etc.) And even those are only on-par with a mid level Scanspeak unit. Speaking from ample personal experience, a $5K speaker from a factory-direct brand will typically perform about as well as a $10K speaker from the big companies. But my hunch is you already know that to be true. Just as you probably know a $1000 DIY speaker can often outperform a $5000 commercial model. Regardless, the resale values mentioned in this vid really had me scratching my head. I’m on the secondhand audio sites daily and these alleged prices hardly reflect what I see for these exact models. It’s also worth noting that there can often be a large gulf between a seller’s asking price and what they ultimately receive for the speaker. Very often they end up having to accept an offer that is hundreds or even thousands below their initial asking price. This is especially true in the current market, in which many sellers are relative newbs-Covid inspired audiophiles who are clueless as to the realistic resale value of their gear. A better source for realistic values is the “Sold/Expired” pages for a given model on HiFi Shark. But even those are misleading as of right now because it has shifted to a buyer’s market over the last few months.
Also, you have to account for the fact that some of these gear listing platforms take a cut as high as 10% of the final transaction amount. It’s why list prices on Audiogon tend to be significantly higher than those on AudioMart.
Curious if you tried countering that offer? I'll say that selling anything on the used market is difficult. Nobody ever values something as much as the person who originally bought it. Thus, it can be more of a hassle (for the seller) than it is worth.
I'm not surprised to hear you say that. I've got the drivers for a big, high-end horn system that I've been planning to build. However, I keep seeing the Cornwall IVs for well under $4k used. It makes it hard to justify the work of building your own. Used Cornwall IVs have to be some of the best value out there. Keep 'em! They're excellent
@KristiWright Yes. The 4k was the end of the negotiation for me. I actually started at 4.6k, and he countered under 4k, but eventually came up. I'm in the midwest, so I'm sure that's a factor on price. If I were in LA or NY city I'm sure they would be valued a bit higher.
I feel like the entry level market continues to be the king supreme of hifi and the best place to buy and try hifi products. I purchased a pair of Magnat Transpul 1500 speakers based on your recommendations. What the 1500’s are worth now I don’t care because I won’t sell them. When the perceived value of a component is higher than the resale value of that same component, you’re not scaling the summit you’re winning! Know the difference.
Thanks for the PSA. Sadly, the ones I want the most ,either of the Klipsch, are still out of my price range for the foreseeable future. I still kick myself for not taking advantage of buying a new pair of Klipsch when I could have. Was repping Klipsch for a marketing company in Hawaii and was able to get them at 50% off. I settled for a Tangent series rather than Heritage. Mind you, I still really enjoyed my Tangents, but the Heritages would sound so much better.
I researched towers for months on what to buy for the next 5 plus years. Even highly considering the arendal speakers and always kept coming back to the Q-Acoustics concept 50’s and boy oh boy am I glad I got them! They are beautiful, well made and the more I keep breaking these babies in the sweeter they are sounding. I literally cannot stop listening to them. They are a gem I’m never getting rid of these beauties!!!
I don’t think depreciation of up to 30% over one year is unreasonable. How much does a new car depreciate as soon as you take it off the lot? If someone is concerned about depreciation then the answer is simple. Buy used.
Most speakers regardless of time owned seem to sell for close to 40-50% on the used market and this is in great condition with no damage box included with all accessories and manuals. You really should try as many speakers as you can before making a purchase so that when do you go to make a decision you plan to keep them for a long time
These depreciations aren’t too bad. Look at something like a peleton. Brand new they were like 1800 bucks, and I bought one on Facebook marketplace for 500 bucks. What you said on the niche Hi-Fi customer base really nails it on the head, well said.
Yes, I would like to see the 10 best. Hoping to see more TV reviews this year too. Perhaps some revisits on speakers, and receivers, as well. I don't think you ever revisited the Yamaha A8A after the initial fiasco.
I noticed the B&W speakers were not on the list. As a footnote, some older B&W 801 and 802's have actually kept their value because many feel the older series actually sounded better or more neutral and more accurate with less emphasis on the mids and treble range as the newer models exhibit. I'm gathering this on blogs that convey this. Also, I rue the day I sold my B&W 801 matrix S2 models which to my ears outclassed the new 801's because of their transparency and more neutral balanced sound, where you actually listened through the music and not just the speakers themselves. Good review as always.
Go vintage. I bought a pair of Dynaco A25 two years ago. Call this a case of "ignorance is bliss" if you want as I have no idea how they compare to anything newer, but I don't care as I LOVE them (a lot of people love them too). They used to sell for about $160 a pair in the 70s. That's a lot of money in today's money. They currently sell for about $300 around here (Canada) but I got lucky and paid $175 for mine. I don't think they're about to loose much value unless I blow a driver or something. And they sound awesome on vintage gear.
All speakers take a huge hit . Especially huge ones. Hard to ship without getting damaged. The potential buyers shrink because you usually have to sell them locally . Don't exactly want to do the transaction in your home .Cant and dont want to carry them to the Starbucks parking lot to do the transaction .Bascially find a potential buyer and be happy .
I still rocking a 3way pioneer that was used by my grand father and father and me still rocking the house never needed anymore than those two babies ❤its probably around 35 years old now 😂
I got B&O Beolab 28 for 7000 GBP in March 2023, 1 year old, price was £12600 for that colour so at 55.6% of new. Price from September 2023 rose to £13950. Rarely seen second hand and most are demanding far more. I also bought Beolab 19 for £1850 when the price new was and still is £3500 giving 52.9% of the new cost.
I do not understand this video. Do people actually buy equipment like this as an investment? I personally buy equipment like speakers to use until they fall apart. I do not look at these as an investment.
I bought a pair of Klipsch Forte 1 and paid probably more than I should have. But I changed the tweeter diaphragms and refinished them and I am very happy with them. I was much less concerned with the investment value than I was with the lovely sound that they produce.
This list is totally bogus! If you spent 5 to 10k on speakers your not worrying about the losses, the losses from buying a Jaguar or Range Rover would be 5 fold!
My best friend is moving and sold a pair of ProAc RESPONSE DT8 for $250. They were advertised for six months at a much higher price. Finally, they needed to go and he took a major hit on them. There's so much great equipment that's for sale used, buying new and paying full retail would be questionable.
HiFi is like cars - the moment you take it out of the parking lot the price is 1/2. Yes there are some vintage JBL's, Altec Lansing etc that are very collectible and in high demand but generally the current HiFi is not an investment that will keep the value. The value there is an amazing enjoyment of great sounding music!!!
Thanks! Andrew and Kristi, can you help a brother out. I have the martin logan 35xti but find it a bit fatiguing and shrill in the upper register. Also vocals don’t sound “real and present.” I’m using the Cambridge audio cxa61 amp. I’ll likely be switching to an AV receiver such as the Sony str-av5000es or marantz cinema 50 soon. Can you recommend some good neutral bookshelf speakers that are not fatiguing and work with all genres? Budget would be less the $5000 a pair new or used.
You likely will be better served with something from KEF's R Line, Polk Reserve, Arendal or used Perlisten S4Bs. Hope this helps and thanks for your support!
The Cambridge CXA61 is contributing to the sound you are describing. I had the same amp bought too as soon as the price dropped and after reading the reviews. I’m not saying it’s a bad amp. But in the end and trying many different speakers I had to let it go. So the ML may not be your cup of tea. But it could be in part the amp. Just my 2 cents.
@@douglassatterfield3921 What did you end up switching to and do you like it? I'm also still on the fence about switching to an AV receiver and whether I can get as good a performance with music on an AV receiver. I am a HUGE movie buff and probably would want to leave the door open for setting up a surround sound system but don't want to sacrifice on stereo listening for music. The Sony STR-AZ5000ES comes highly recommended on this channel but there are threads on AVSforum saying some units are buggy but some people have no problems at all. I'm open to amplifier suggestions as well.
From reading reviews, the Cambridge comes across as a forward amp that is on the thinner side. Sounds like you need a different amp, as someone had already said. I'd try to get a home demo with a Maranz PM8006, as the warmer sound may very well be what you need and it isn't "super" expensive.
I'd say another reason folks don't change high end speakers as often is they buy something that becomes a visual focus of their space, not just "makes sound". And to change requires FAR more effort than is swapping out an amp, or even a TV.
About a year ago, I invested in an upgrade to my listening experience on a pretty limited budget. I actually ended up buying a pioneer 305 elite receiver based off your review of it. I ended up going with SVS prime pinnacles; mostly because as a bass freak, I was tremendously impressed with the two PB-3000 subs I already had. I'd love to see some videos on SVS in general, and wonder why they have never been featured. If I was an expert on the subject; I probably wouldnt watch youtube videos on it, so would be very interested to hear your thoughts on them.
Sadly, our last experience with the brand revealed an expectation on their part that if a review contained any criticism, they'd prefer the product be returned without review. That's not a fair request in our opinion, not to mention a disservice to the audience (theirs and ours). So it's not likely you'll see the brand again unless management changes.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Wow, I am shocked to hear that. What a shame. I think the product held firm, as I have enjoyed them for a year now much to my neighbors distaste. =P Thank you for your response sir, keep up ur good work. In all fairness, the 305 has been just ok...lol
So in your opinion, they are a good sub company but lacking on the hi fi end? I went from 2003 cerwin vega ls 12s when i was in the service till now. I understand this is "upper tier" low budget speakers.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews I love their brand, and as a nobody i am gonna reach out to them about this. If you hear from a Scott Miller, id appreciate if u worked with him. U are a respected critic, and I feel SVS is worth critique.
A few things I'd like to address as I'm seeing a lot of the same comments below.
1. I never say that speakers are a good investment in this video. In fact, I routinely caution viewers about looking at the hobby of hifi (or home theater) as an investment, because it isn't one. I have shared my personal horror stories about losing my a** on having to sell secondhand equipment.
2. I get that the word "invest" is used in the title, and I stand by its usage. Whether some want to admit it, many of you look at your hifi purchases through an investment-like lens; you weigh the performance-to-price ratio and try and get the best bang for your buck. You're on the hunt for an arbitrage opportunity --you want a speaker you can buy for cheap that performs or looks as if you spent more. If you could sell it for what you paid for it down the road, even better. These are "investing" or "investment-like" principles, and are in keeping with the spirit of this video.
3. This is not an end-all-be-all-be-all list. As stated at the top of this video, I decided to look at many hifi publications' Best Of lists for 2023/2022 and see which "award-winning" speakers fare best on the secondhand market. Obviously, had we opened this up to all speakers many of these examples like the Magico A5 would likely not make our Top 10 as its depreciation appears to be average to maybe even good all things considered. But when compared to so-called award-winning options, it may not be the "best" way to spend your money if you care about maximizing your hifi dollar --even in the high-end space.
4. The resale prices quoted in this video represent an average price that was arrived at by using examples from eBay, Facebook Marketplace and Audiogon.
This is a bit silly. As with any entertainment product like sports cars, speakers, all electronics, etc, the resale value plummets as soon as the box is opened. Of course $25k speakers will lose a ton of resale value. I've bought 2 used $15k+ audio components for less than $3k. These are not investments. They are meant to be used and enjoyed. It is a huge rarity to have audio worth more than its purchase price.
Wow, some seriously convoluted logic my friend. Simply say you made a mistake and speakers aren't investments. Or, just change the title if you can ;-) Otherwise, everything we purchase is an "investment" ;-)
I’ve bought used B&W speakers on multiple occasions, had them for several years and have either sold them at the same price or even a bit more than I paid. Then you have to ship them of course. Would not be surprised if UPS makes as much on a speaker as the mfg lol. The ROI is the experience of course!
It’s an investment, just not a financial investment. It’s an investment of one’s resources towards their life’s enjoyment. I typically stick with powered studio monitors which tend to hold their value pretty well. Ive bought and sold several used sets of monitors at almost no loss. This has allowed me to experiment with different styles of speakers without spending a fortune.
I just want to say I agree with point 2 personally. I definitely see it through that lens when I’m looking to buy or just watching RUclips videos without aiming to buy anything.
Edit: Also nice job rocking the ‘stache, looks new to me.
This list should be called “best speakers to buy second hand”
Got a promotion at work today and I’m celebrating tonight listening to my stereo. I’m up in my listening space adjusting toe in and my sub and realized how much I’ve learned from you guys. Just want you to know that the enjoyment you provide to your viewers goes beyond the viewing period. You’ve taught me a whole new topic to think about which can last a lifetime. What more can I say but, thank you!
Honestly I'm surprised that some haven't lost more value. Why would anyone expect any audio equipment to hold it's value? It never has historically. Sure some pieces may be more desirable than others, and there's always someone willing to pay too much for something, but that doesn't mean YOU will find someone to pay that price. IDK seems expected and not mush of a shock to me.
“Invest” should be in quotes.
It's usually worth buying more desirable equipment if you ever intend to sell it as its much easier to find a buyer and you'll get closer to the original price. It's of course highly variable and they'll always depreciate!
@@bryanherr1093. I agree
When you saturate the market with remakes and upgrades of speaker brands this is what you get. I’ve never considered buying speakers an investment. Buying a home is an investment.
Audio is a hobby is an investment.
Bought a pair of 1990 Klipsch La Scalas in 2000 for $900. They are almost perfect. And I still own. I think that was a good investment.
I bought B-stock Forte IV's at a savings and the small blemish was worth every penny of savings. I have a few blems as well so we're a perfect match.
Who thinks electronics or speakers are an investment? My $6500 Pioneer Elite plasma TV is worth $200 now, but it still works and it's still beautiful. My Revel Salon 2 speakers and Pass electronics will accompany me to the end. I don't care how much they sell for when I am gone.
Is there any consumer product in any category that could be considered an investment? I can't think of anything that you can buy outside of the stock market and real estate that is going to increase in value.
Speakers are nothing more than a consumer goods. Never an investment only an expense. Hope yours last as long as the ones I purchased in 1988 and still working excellent
Hifi is mostly a poor investment anyway. However, I did fund my entire home theatre setup by buying and selling Marantz AVR's over 7 months on the second-hand market. They sell like hotcakes!
Total investment was about 600 usd and I have a Marantz Cinema 50, XTZ edge a2-300, 7.2.4 canton speakers and an LG C1 83 inch!
This could also be called “The BEST speakers to look for used”
Andrew - I appreciate the boldness of this video as most audio reviewers would not dare to bite the hand that feeds them!
95% of my system (Adcom, Von Schweikert, VPI, Oppo, Magnepan and Bluesound components) was bought on the secondary market for pennies on the dollar of its original cost. It is just a standard 2-channel system so it really does not need all the advancements of the past few years that primarily surround HT or audio streaming. As long as you are not one who feels the need for the “latest and greatest” or suffers from FOMO you can put together a better than average music system without fearing that you paid too much.
I just saved $5,200 on La Scala AL5! From an authorized Klipsch Heritage Dealer. Thank you for making me think of the used market!
I got my JBL Studio 530 speakers waaay under MSRP. It had to be less than 50%. It’s not a financial investment, but certainly an enjoyable speaker to listen to.
I bought a pair of La Scala in 1974 for $575.00 ea in oiled walnut. They came a little cheaper in black or unfinished. I absolutely LOVED them. I drove them with a Macintosh MA 6100 integrated amp. Biggest regret was selling them after I got married in 80's. Should of sold the wife...😮💨
😂😂😂😂
They are worth a lot more now than when you go them If you buy used, older, klipsch heritage, they will appreciate in value.
Speakers are an investment for your soul, not for your dollars.
My Klipsch Cornwalls remind me of that during every listening session.
I love mine, I'll die with them.
Hifi is not an investment product. It’s a hobby for people with disposable income
As a cash limited senior citizen I find what I want, then start looking for used. Bought a pair of Wharfedale EVO 4.3’s for $1200 Canadian, about half price and no tax. They weren’t even broke in. That took about 3 months more to do! I find most of my electronics used too. Some are dogs but a lot have never been optimized properly before dumping.
I’m a bit surprised about Klipsch heritage, luckily I got a VERY good deal on an open box pair of Cornwall iv’s (which I love).
Would love to see “ the best to invest “ video even for integrated amps too.
Thank you and happy new year!!
Noted and thank you for watching!
They initially impress but the funnels grow fatiguing after awhile.Like muscle cars they re exhilarating at first. Then the downsides show up.
I got a pair of Thiel cs 2.2 (1992) from my dad, and they sound so good, that I can’t justify buying anything new anymore. They’re good enough, what a magical idea... lol
I just purchased a pair of La Ascalaspeakers for 1600 plus 30 dollars for the delivery fee . ( old owner charged me for his gas ) for his truck . So I got a pair of two yr old La Ascala for cheap .
What a great deal!
Tempted to update my 15 year old PSB surround system speakers ( just because.... ) but once I upgraded to a new Pioneer LX505 and an Emotiva amp for the three front channels. It sounds fantastic & the speakers sound better than ever. One of the most surprising benefits was stellar centre channel ( dialogue ) clarity. Love your videos.
An alternative title might be: great speakers to get aftermarket. I always go used when looking at big hifi purchases.
It's a good way to look at the conversation being had here. As far as titles go, that would not be one that results in views.
Hi guys. Happy New Yr. I just pulled the trigger on a pair of Klipsch Cornwall Cornwall IVs. I tend to hold on to my electronics especially speakers. Been a klipsch user for almost 40yrs. I got no skin in the game when it comes to resale. I plan to have these for life.
*Thank you for joining us today. How was everyone's holiday? What did you all do? Stay home, visit family, take a trip somewhere new? Hopefully, it was restorative, no matter how you spent it. I believe we took our longest break since starting the channel and it was awesome!*
In 1977 I bought a set of Altec Lansings mod 14's. The sound is great, and the cabinetry design and craftsmanship is outstanding. I still have and play them today and wouldn't give them up for anything. They're like a beautiful piece of furniture that sings.
You could change the title of this video to "Best speakers to buy on the used market." For the La Scalas, you have to find a pair within reasonable driving distance because I would imagine shipping those would cost a fortune. However, to pay less than $10,000 for a pair would be worth a long drive, even if it includes a hotel stay on the way. I don't buy speakers for the investment value so getting a pair I want to own at a steep discount is always going to be a good thing assuming the speakers aren't damaged.
Still have my Klipsch Heresy HWO1 with recapped crossovers, purchased new in 1979. I'm happy.
Yes!! 10 Best speakers for investment please!
NOTED!
Thanks for letting us know.
Good morning Andrew. I enjoyed your video. I have the Arendal 1723 towers and I wondered about the low resale from $3,800 to $3,000. I had to search for a while to find any for resale. I did find one pair selling for $3,000 and a shipping fee of almost $500. Compared to the free shipping of $3,800 it is not that much of a drop. Keep up the great work.
Thanks
Vern
Very interesting subject to discuss😊, thank you Andrew!! And Happy new year
Hey Kristi and Andrew! Liking the new filming position (and the mustache). Great video to start up the year. Looking forward to another year of excellent reviews and other content👍🏼
Thanks so much! Curious if others would notice the changes. Lots more coming 😉
You noticed the new angle!
Welcome back and happy new year!
That one was fun! I would love to see the best list. I’m glad to see my Model 5’s didn’t make this list (not that it matters I still love them). Can’t wait to see what you guys bring this year. have a great week
Thanks! Have a great week and I think you'll be interested in next week video 😉
Oh dang Model 7 review? 😁 Saaaaaay whaaaat???? Looking forward to hearing about it! And by the way. Great video topic this week Andrew. I laughed out loud when you said "...and they're done!". 😆
How in the world did you miss KEF? They constantly go on sale and undercut their owners who might want to make a change, Imagine paying $1,599 for the LS50 Meta and then having KEF turn around and sell them for $999 all Xmas long!
I bought the klipsch rp600 m2 for black friday at $420, loved them and a week later saw a couple of rp8000f1 on sale for... $650! I got those bad boys instead and couldn't be happier. I know you have reviewed the f2s too and totally agree on the sound difference..but for $650 i mean, just like you said..it's a steal! ... I just paired them with a warmer center channel a cheap klpisch r120swi sub from Costco and wow... All your videos on placement, cross over and EQhave made a huge difference in my room. Thank you for all your reviews Andrew and Kristi and Happy 2024!
Glad to see a new video, and keep that stache! Matter of fact go fu Manchu on the next vid!!!
Maybe I'll make my facial hair an ever-changing addition to the channel.
Mr. Robinson, as you are a fan of la scalas I will share my story. I was a jet engine tech working in Base Baden soligen germany. In our PX was a pair of la scalas sitting on the floor. over the year their price would drop as they needed the space. At the time our dollar was higher than the usd and 3 to 1 against the Germ DM. One day we had Paul Klipsch in our PX. These speakers were designed for his daughter who was getting married in La Escala spain and he built them for the outdoor celebrations. At least this is what Paul stated. 1984. I purchased the speakers for $400 apiece with no container but he did sign them. One solid box of 1 inch birch plywood. The speakers were amazing for the next 30 years and driven by a Quad amp/preamp. For the music I listened to unsurpassed. A house fire finally killed them. and now I see $17000 canadian which makes me cry.
I like this new facial hair style. It’s got a peaky blinders vibe to it 👍🏾
Thanks for a different perspective on popular current speakers. Totally agree with both your comments at the end of the video. We don't buy these items as a monetary investment but more as an emotional one.
If you're buying what you want or like then the dollar figure likely isn't going to matter (as much).
Maybe I’m old school, but I buy speaker to keep them. Unless I don’t like them out of the box (klipsch 600m ii). I just replaced my 20 year old B&W DM 302.
Most high-end products are sold new 20-25% off list so resale with slightly lower price is pretty good. Dealer cost is typically 50-60% of MSRP.
Cornwall IV here. Bought to keep them till i drop dead.
Maybe i add a pair of La Scala's in a few years...
Heresy IV here. Would have gone for earlier model but none available at the time (isolated part of the globe). Cornwallis next when space allows OR … La Scala if even bigger space.
Bought Forte IIs in 2003, mint used back then for $900 shipped in the original boxes and foam inserts. Selling on Flea-Bay for $900-1200 today. A re-capped pair just went for $1700. After 21 years of use I'm going to declare I got my money's worth.
I’m sure many of the high value pieces are endgame speakers for most. If I ever decide to gut my game room and set it up as a listening space then buy Cornwall’s, it’s gonna be forever. All of my family prefers their music delivered via earbuds, I’m sure shortly after I meet my maker, they will appear on Craig’s List with OBO after the price.
I enjoyed this one. Really informative, fascinating, and an honest look at the hobby.
Glad you enjoyed it.
A pair of loud speakers is not a financial investment vehicle. it’s a depreciating luxury asset. An investment like bonds or stocks is a financial product with a potential rate of return higher than inflation rate.
A pair of loud speaker is an emotional investment for the purpose of enjoyment and to measure it by its monetary depreciation seems like a bizarre method.
Of course the more expensive the speaker the higher the depreciation as these are total unnecessary luxury products. For example I bet a 100K pair will depreciate pretty hard too, but what does that say about the speaker or the enjoyment of listener. Or whether one should buy it or not. Most things in life are depreciating assets for example furniture and appliances . I don’t think people look at depreciation when buying furniture either.
People might care about used car residual values as it is a. Significant amount for most people and b cars are not purely luxury and for some a necessity that has the be replaced.
I have a set of Canton Xi 270 speakers. A little larger than what can be classified as bookshelf size. Bought them in the early eighties and listened to them in a large variety of rooms as I moved around over the years. Had them re-coned once.
I could play those German built speakers so loud it would blow the metal grills off!
But several years ago I decided to upgrade to Klipsch R-820F’s. They are easily three times the size of my cherished Cantons.
I decided to do an A/B comparison when I got a new receiver…
I was shocked and dismayed that my Canton’s sounded equally good if not better.
I will never part with my Cantons. Ever.
Your video got me thinking I should look into selling my Klipsch and take a 25% haircut…
I’m betting w the Klipsch, size plays a part. Saw a pair of Cornwallis today for roughly 3200. Just don’t have the room for them.
Glad I got my Cornwall IVs before the most recent inflation driven price hikes. But like a new car, the biggest depreciation will always be that first year.
I can see the Cornwall and La Scala prices dropping rapidly initially. With their relatively high price, most people looking for them would just as soon buy new as get a 1-2 year old used one.
All I know is the brand “Keeps” is totally working. Not only a full head of hair, that mustache… had to do a double take. Thought Andrew was a cop for a second. 😆
radio gaga
Just bought some Definitive Technology Demand D15 towers that retailed for $3,400 in 2020 for $500 new! Crazy depreciation but I’m enjoying the cost savings!
You are not even factoring in the divorce that is soon follow the purchase of a pair of La Scala's....
that's so true!! haha
I’ve had my system for over 20 years. I’ve had my speakers for over 5 years now. They still bring a smile to my face when I sit down and listen. As long as that continues to happen I won’t be upgrading anytime soon.
NO ONE expects audio to be a good investment. I'ts just like most automobiles: if it's not a rare collectible its value drops by at least 25% after you drive it off the new car lot (or off the audio showroom floor). The other problem with audio is that there are a profusion of brands and every time there is an audio show, a new brand becomes every critic's darling. The next year when a new brand or model shows up, your "darling" a year ago is hardly worth the shipping cost to sell it to someone else! (On the other hand, this depreciation makes the used audio market an especially good value.)
I just sold my A25 Dynacos yesterday for $200. They still have the $7.99 Goodwill price stickers on them. They are listed on EBay for $600. So we’re all happy. Now I’m home listening to my $160. SX-1250 and $300. JBL L300s. I’ve had for over twenty years. I’m set for life.
The best investment are the speakers you'll never sell.
Would love to hear your top 10 best speakers at some point! Glad your back!
They would probably be tens of thousands of dollars. And be something that would be a limited number. Such as BANG & OLUFSEN.
If someone is buying speakers as an “investment” … they are buying for the wrong reason.
Thanks for making me feel better buying open box Cornwall IIIs and IVs! There is also a geographical element… I can’t sell mine here in N. NV for what I could have sold them for in Marin County two years ago
You likely bought...wisely!
Not sure where you’re getting these secondhand values but depreciation of 70% because they know it’s not uncommon for dealers to discount a given model by 15-20% for the initial sale. It’s only very rare and highly coveted models that are an exception. Factory direct brands often have the best resale values because buyers know the original prices didn’t include the typical dealer markup.
We say at the top of this video where we got our average resale values. We took the average price of what we could find on ebay, Facebook Marketplace and Audiogon.
As for factory direct brands not having dealer markup, this is very often not true. While they may not price their products (MSRP) to account for dealer margins, to suggest that those margins don't exist and that the manufacturer who is selling to you directly isn't keeping it for themselves, is wrong.
Look at the ratio of BOM/asking price for brands like Philharmonic and Ascend Acoustics. And to a lesser degree, Spatial Audio. The percentage of BOM relative to asking is far greater than you’ll find from any dealer-sold brand. And yes, some brands like Focal and KEF manufacture their own drivers and such, but those drivers are barely competitive with the entry-level stuff from Seas, Scanspeak, Morel et al. They like to market them as though they’re SOTA but they’re not. The true good stuff they reserve solely for their flagship products (Blade, Utopia, 800s etc.) And even those are only on-par with a mid level Scanspeak unit.
Speaking from ample personal experience, a $5K speaker from a factory-direct brand will typically perform about as well as a $10K speaker from the big companies. But my hunch is you already know that to be true. Just as you probably know a $1000 DIY speaker can often outperform a $5000 commercial model.
Regardless, the resale values mentioned in this vid really had me scratching my head. I’m on the secondhand audio sites daily and these alleged prices hardly reflect what I see for these exact models. It’s also worth noting that there can often be a large gulf between a seller’s asking price and what they ultimately receive for the speaker. Very often they end up having to accept an offer that is hundreds or even thousands below their initial asking price. This is especially true in the current market, in which many sellers are relative newbs-Covid inspired audiophiles who are clueless as to the realistic resale value of their gear.
A better source for realistic values is the “Sold/Expired” pages for a given model on HiFi Shark. But even those are misleading as of right now because it has shifted to a buyer’s market over the last few months.
Also, you have to account for the fact that some of these gear listing platforms take a cut as high as 10% of the final transaction amount. It’s why list prices on Audiogon tend to be significantly higher than those on AudioMart.
Not surprised. I tried to sell my Cornwall IV's and the best offer I got was 4k. I couldn't let them go for that price and decided to keep them.
Curious if you tried countering that offer? I'll say that selling anything on the used market is difficult. Nobody ever values something as much as the person who originally bought it. Thus, it can be more of a hassle (for the seller) than it is worth.
I'm not surprised to hear you say that. I've got the drivers for a big, high-end horn system that I've been planning to build. However, I keep seeing the Cornwall IVs for well under $4k used. It makes it hard to justify the work of building your own. Used Cornwall IVs have to be some of the best value out there. Keep 'em! They're excellent
@KristiWright Yes. The 4k was the end of the negotiation for me. I actually started at 4.6k, and he countered under 4k, but eventually came up. I'm in the midwest, so I'm sure that's a factor on price. If I were in LA or NY city I'm sure they would be valued a bit higher.
Should this not be ‘ the 10 best speakers to buy secondhand’?
I feel like the entry level market continues to be the king supreme of hifi and the best place to buy and try hifi products. I purchased a pair of Magnat Transpul 1500 speakers based on your recommendations. What the 1500’s are worth now I don’t care because I won’t sell them. When the perceived value of a component is higher than the resale value of that same component, you’re not scaling the summit you’re winning! Know the difference.
Bought a set of Cornwall II's in 1990 for $1100. Sold them this year for $1100. Not bad...
Thanks for the PSA. Sadly, the ones I want the most ,either of the Klipsch, are still out of my price range for the foreseeable future. I still kick myself for not taking advantage of buying a new pair of Klipsch when I could have. Was repping Klipsch for a marketing company in Hawaii and was able to get them at 50% off. I settled for a Tangent series rather than Heritage. Mind you, I still really enjoyed my Tangents, but the Heritages would sound so much better.
Hi-Fi is one the worst investments you can make, BUT it can provide a lifetime of great experiences listening to music.
100% agree!
It’s only January and this video gets my 2024 “Top Gun” award… “Gutsiest move I’ve ever seen Mav.” ~Call sign Hollywood, 1986.😊
HAHAHAHAHAHA
I researched towers for months on what to buy for the next 5 plus years. Even highly considering the arendal speakers and always kept coming back to the Q-Acoustics concept 50’s and boy oh boy am I glad I got them! They are beautiful, well made and the more I keep breaking these babies in the sweeter they are sounding. I literally cannot stop listening to them. They are a gem I’m never getting rid of these beauties!!!
I don’t think depreciation of up to 30% over one year is unreasonable. How much does a new car depreciate as soon as you take it off the lot? If someone is concerned about depreciation then the answer is simple. Buy used.
Exactly. What is this video about? 😂
Most speakers regardless of time owned seem to sell for close to 40-50% on the used market and this is in great condition with no damage box included with all accessories and manuals. You really should try as many speakers as you can before making a purchase so that when do you go to make a decision you plan to keep them for a long time
Buying a speaker is not an investment! It’s an expense.
These depreciations aren’t too bad. Look at something like a peleton. Brand new they were like 1800 bucks, and I bought one on Facebook marketplace for 500 bucks. What you said on the niche Hi-Fi customer base really nails it on the head, well said.
Yes, I would like to see the 10 best. Hoping to see more TV reviews this year too. Perhaps some revisits on speakers, and receivers, as well. I don't think you ever revisited the Yamaha A8A after the initial fiasco.
Noted on all counts. Thanks for watching!
I noticed the B&W speakers were not on the list. As a footnote, some older B&W 801 and 802's have actually kept their value because many feel the older series actually sounded better or more neutral and more accurate with less emphasis on the mids and treble range as the newer models exhibit. I'm gathering this on blogs that convey this. Also, I rue the day I sold my B&W 801 matrix S2 models which to my ears outclassed the new 801's because of their transparency and more neutral balanced sound, where you actually listened through the music and not just the speakers themselves. Good review as always.
Nobody ever got rich investing in audiophile equipment.
@davidchorney8740 Not even the manufacturers.
Go vintage.
I bought a pair of Dynaco A25 two years ago.
Call this a case of "ignorance is bliss" if you want as I have no idea how they compare to anything newer, but I don't care as I LOVE them (a lot of people love them too).
They used to sell for about $160 a pair in the 70s. That's a lot of money in today's money. They currently sell for about $300 around here (Canada) but I got lucky and paid $175 for mine. I don't think they're about to loose much value unless I blow a driver or something.
And they sound awesome on vintage gear.
All speakers take a huge hit . Especially huge ones. Hard to ship without getting damaged. The potential buyers shrink because you usually have to sell them locally . Don't exactly want to do the transaction in your home .Cant and dont want to carry them to the Starbucks parking lot to do the transaction .Bascially find a potential buyer and be happy .
I still rocking a 3way pioneer that was used by my grand father and father and me still rocking the house never needed anymore than those two babies ❤its probably around 35 years old now 😂
Could have titled this "10 BEST USED SPEAKER VALUES!"
Love the reviews for sure. But this change up and potentially others like it are great ideas. Keep’em coming.
I love doing videos like this. Reviews are draining in more ways than one. This year we'll likely have fewer reviews than we've done in the past.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews It will just make the channel even better. Looking forward to the new mix.
Speakers and other such consumer goods, are not an investment. Period.
I got B&O Beolab 28 for 7000 GBP in March 2023, 1 year old, price was £12600 for that colour so at 55.6% of new. Price from September 2023 rose to £13950. Rarely seen second hand and most are demanding far more. I also bought Beolab 19 for £1850 when the price new was and still is £3500 giving 52.9% of the new cost.
I do not understand this video. Do people actually buy equipment like this as an investment? I personally buy equipment like speakers to use until they fall apart. I do not look at these as an investment.
Reviewers' point of view is obviously very skewed, as they have product coming in and out of their houses all the time.
Happy New Year !! Yes, I would truly enjoy the "Best Of" instalment...
HNY to you as well!
The way I see things - this video could be called: „Top 10 speakers to buy second hand and enjoy for a long time to come“.😌
Wait! You mean...loudspeakers depreciate after you buy them new, like pretty much everything else? I'm so glad someone made a video that told me this!
The best speaker to invest in is the one that you own and like! The only person that has to like it is the owner!
Yep!
I have a pair of Klipsch F300s that I got for $318 from a highly reputable company. I am very happy.
Used audio equipment is worth about HALF of new retail as a rule and historically speaking---until they become rare and desirable classics.
I bought a pair of Klipsch Forte 1 and paid probably more than I should have. But I changed the tweeter diaphragms and refinished them and I am very happy with them. I was much less concerned with the investment value than I was with the lovely sound that they produce.
This list is totally bogus! If you spent 5 to 10k on speakers your not worrying about the losses, the losses from buying a Jaguar or Range Rover would be 5 fold!
My best friend is moving and sold a pair of ProAc RESPONSE DT8 for $250. They were advertised for six months at a much higher price. Finally, they needed to go and he took a major hit on them. There's so much great equipment that's for sale used, buying new and paying full retail would be questionable.
What are Kristi’s thoughts on the moustache?
i never thought about investing in speakers. first time heard that. i always buy used ones for cheaper price.
Yes, we need the list of best speakers to invest in.
HiFi is like cars - the moment you take it out of the parking lot the price is 1/2. Yes there are some vintage JBL's, Altec Lansing etc that are very collectible and in high demand but generally the current HiFi is not an investment that will keep the value. The value there is an amazing enjoyment of great sounding music!!!
Hi Fi is a luxury item, and as such will never be an investment.
Thanks! Andrew and Kristi, can you help a brother out. I have the martin logan 35xti but find it a bit fatiguing and shrill in the upper register. Also vocals don’t sound “real and present.” I’m using the Cambridge audio cxa61 amp. I’ll likely be switching to an AV receiver such as the Sony str-av5000es or marantz cinema 50 soon. Can you recommend some good neutral bookshelf speakers that are not fatiguing and work with all genres? Budget would be less the $5000 a pair new or used.
You likely will be better served with something from KEF's R Line, Polk Reserve, Arendal or used Perlisten S4Bs. Hope this helps and thanks for your support!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Thanks 🙏🏾
The Cambridge CXA61 is contributing to the sound you are describing. I had the same amp bought too as soon as the price dropped and after reading the reviews. I’m not saying it’s a bad amp. But in the end and trying many different speakers I had to let it go. So the ML may not be your cup of tea. But it could be in part the amp. Just my 2 cents.
@@douglassatterfield3921 What did you end up switching to and do you like it? I'm also still on the fence about switching to an AV receiver and whether I can get as good a performance with music on an AV receiver. I am a HUGE movie buff and probably would want to leave the door open for setting up a surround sound system but don't want to sacrifice on stereo listening for music. The Sony STR-AZ5000ES comes highly recommended on this channel but there are threads on AVSforum saying some units are buggy but some people have no problems at all. I'm open to amplifier suggestions as well.
From reading reviews, the Cambridge comes across as a forward amp that is on the thinner side. Sounds like you need a different amp, as someone had already said. I'd try to get a home demo with a Maranz PM8006, as the warmer sound may very well be what you need and it isn't "super" expensive.
I'd say another reason folks don't change high end speakers as often is they buy something that becomes a visual focus of their space, not just "makes sound". And to change requires FAR more effort than is swapping out an amp, or even a TV.
Not with bookshelf speakers. They swap them like other equipments.
About a year ago, I invested in an upgrade to my listening experience on a pretty limited budget. I actually ended up buying a pioneer 305 elite receiver based off your review of it. I ended up going with SVS prime pinnacles; mostly because as a bass freak, I was tremendously impressed with the two PB-3000 subs I already had. I'd love to see some videos on SVS in general, and wonder why they have never been featured. If I was an expert on the subject; I probably wouldnt watch youtube videos on it, so would be very interested to hear your thoughts on them.
Sadly, our last experience with the brand revealed an expectation on their part that if a review contained any criticism, they'd prefer the product be returned without review. That's not a fair request in our opinion, not to mention a disservice to the audience (theirs and ours). So it's not likely you'll see the brand again unless management changes.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Wow, I am shocked to hear that. What a shame. I think the product held firm, as I have enjoyed them for a year now much to my neighbors distaste. =P Thank you for your response sir, keep up ur good work. In all fairness, the 305 has been just ok...lol
So in your opinion, they are a good sub company but lacking on the hi fi end? I went from 2003 cerwin vega ls 12s when i was in the service till now. I understand this is "upper tier" low budget speakers.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews I love their brand, and as a nobody i am gonna reach out to them about this. If you hear from a Scott Miller, id appreciate if u worked with him. U are a respected critic, and I feel SVS is worth critique.