Acoustic Energy AE300 Speaker Review
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- Опубликовано: 27 июл 2024
- The Acoustic Energy AE300s are essentially the passive version of the AE1s that won my Product of the Year, 2020. Can the passive speaker live up to the high standards set by the active design? Also, I discuss why many people you lust for the classic BBC LS3/5a monitor speaker but can’t spend circa £2k to £3k on a speaker may be interested in the AE300s.
Link to manufacturer’s website...
www.acoustic-energy.co.uk/pro...
Time stamps...
Start 0:00
Design 2:45
Technical insights 4:33
Sound quality 7:14
Setup & partnering equipment 11:20
Conclusion 13:27
Interesting to see one product of a brand being product of the year and another of the same brand getting just a recommended. Increased my confidence in the impartiality and credibility of your reviews.
Thank you Jeremy 😊👍
Another well done review Tarun. I enjoyed the additional information on the crossover. It seems you up your game with every new review.
Can't wait for the next review.
Cheers
Thank you Richard. Learning as I go. Appreciate you watching and your support 😊👍
Great review! I really like the fact you present technical insights as well, it's what sets you apart in comparison to other sources of information for me - in a positive way👍
Thank you. Many of my viewers enjoy that section. Now at least for those viewers where it goes over their head, they can easily move on 😊👍
You supply the best balance of tech info and knowledge and real world useful info on audio on the net. You really do your research on a product which I appreciate. Another excellent review.
Thank you Will. very much appreciated 😊👍👍
Your channel gets better each time. Loving it.
Thank you Ajay 😊👍
Fantastic, as always, Tarun. Thank you.
Thank you Anton 😊👍
I have a pair of original AE109s so it is interesting to see how the brand is developing after being in the woods for a while. Love to see an AE 509 review one day as they’ve also been well reviewed. Think I like this UK sound. Thanks again Tarun for a balanced review.
Thank you for watching and sharing your experiences PR. I do hope to review more AE products 😊😉
Good honest reviews to depend on. Well done and many thanks.
Thank you Peter. Very kind of you to say and very much appreciated 😊👍👍
Thank you Tarun, a another fantastic review as you always do, I really like the way you present technical content (nobody does it better!). I had been waiting for this review since you mentioned it sometime back, as I owned a pair of AE109s which were fantastic. Now eagerly awaiting your review of the Hegel H95.
Thank you Neil. The H95 review went live today 😊👍
Solid review, T.
Thank you Randy. Is there a way to contact you?
AHA! It's what I asked for. It's what you said you had coming up. Thanks!
Love the way the cabinet corners curve the opposite directions(or however a person might describe that)
The cabinet's edges are curved on the sides at the top, front and back edges curved at the bottom.
Thank you for watching Sam 😊👍
Thank you Paz 😊👍
Another fine review. I always enjoy your take on products. Interesting about the LS3/5A and how as a purpose designed monitor speaker it was deliberately given a coloured mid-range.
Thank you Graham. Makes sense when you look at the amp options at the price 👍😊
Tarun, always enjoy your highly technical reviews. RUclipsrs have been presenting a high volume of LS3/5a reviews lately. Most of them singing their superlatives though they do point out the price and if they are the best value. It’s is terrific a speaker can be in production in various forms for 46 years. I know they are iconic in the UK and I don’t doubt their sweetness of sound. They are analogous in a certain way (not physically) to Klipsch heritage speakers here in the US. Iconic with a signature sound and a price tag to accompany.
I agree with every word of that Steve. Thank you for watching and your support 😊👍
Another great one Tarun. I love the way you position these as a “poor man’s” LS3/5a. Great for some but not for others (including myself). Perfect. The AE1 actives are still on my audition list however!
Thank you Rick 😊👍
Good review Tarun
Thank you 😉👍
Well done Tarun!
Thank you 😊👍
They're beautiful. I'd buy them just to soak in that walnut. Also, the more you compare them to the active AE1s the more I'm convinced that active speakers are more legit than I give 'em credit. Good work dropping the Point from Price Point, you managed it once, and that's a great start!
Thanks buddy. I still say that way to often. My mind is racing with what I need to say without fumbling over my words when I am on camera. It is hard to correct inherent traits. Like you say, it is a start 😊👍
@@abritishaudiophile7314 But you speak very concisely and with a bit of an engineering slant or at least more of the technical side and that is enjoyable.
@@rotaxtwin thank you 😉👍
Good review. I appreciated the option to miss the 'geeky tech' section. Also, the images of the speaker a partnering equip breaking up the on camera dialogue. Nice to see suggestions having been acted on. I have wondered what all the hoopla is with the LS3/5a.
Thanks Tony. Getting better at doing this but it is talking longer as well. I am going to have to find a happy balance 😊👍
Nice review , thank you
Thank you B W 😊👍
Thank you so much Tarun 👌
Thank you Roque 😊👍
Hi Tarun ! Acoustic Energy has made a great comeback these past few years ! Since I am considering finding some new speakers, I'm unsure if I should buy an active or passive system. Your review help clarify some points concerning sound quality ! Thanks!
Thank you Yves 😊👍
Some brave statements on the LS.
I like your honesty even though some might not like what you're stating.
Thank you Sebastiaan. My view is that there is not much point me doing this unless I can be honest. Hopefully, the LS3/5a enthusiasts will forgive me for any criticisms. I personally still really like that speaker 😊👍
@@abritishaudiophile7314 i think they'll forgive you, given the quality content you pit out.
Nice job on the review.
I really like the way the veneer is wrapped around the cabinet with the offset round overs. Definitely a good looking speaker for the money.
Totally agree 😉
As you may remember (probably not) I got the AE1 actives right around the time you received yours. After that experience I dont think I'll ever go back to passives. If its quality for the money one is after, I just see no point in even bothering to try and match at home swapping components what a well designed active can do. If I ever need an upgrade I'd probably get an ATC active rig and call it a day.
That is probably exactly what I would do if I was starting over again today. AE1s, then ATC SCM19A, then their SCM50ASLTs, done!
Thanks! I get to these late sometimes as I watch them on my theater system and remember (later) to do computer time and click the like button. Complications of the tech life style lol.
Thank you LF 😊
It’s hard to compare two sets of loudspeakers of dissimilar price points and characteristics. Compromises are just as much a part of most gear you come across. What some people still don’t get is how a great pair of speaker stands properly dampened can make a speaker of lesser value shine. They will not compete with the likes of your ProAcs, but they are not at that price point. Given a great pairing with good gear, you can get as much as they are capable. I would love to see a video on your stands as this is an accessory item that is not given it’s fair share of attention. This was a very fair review. Hope you have one coming on your stands! Love this channel and your videos! Stay safe mates!😊👍🏻😷
Thank you Mark. Always a pleasure to hear from you. I wonder if I can talk about my Target R4 stands in enough depth to do them justice in a video. Also, I wonder whether people would be interested in hearing about it? Maybe they can let me know below by commenting. Thanks for watching Mark and your suggestion. You stay safe too 😊👍
@@abritishaudiophile7314 I'm interested in learning about stands. What difference do they make? Currently have my speakers on an entertainment unit. Should I use stands instead? What should I look for in a stand?
@@adman11 thanks Adam. I may have to do a video on it. If your system is set up right and costs more than a few hundred pounds a decent stand will improve the sound. You will be getting all kinds of unsavoury reflections off the entertainment unit. In short look for a stand that has a wide base, thick metal gauge construction on the base, top plate and columns, can be filled to increase mass and reduce vibrations. Good luck 😊👍
Don't ditch the new section (IMHO)... And keep 'em coming!
Thank you. I know that many love the technical stuff but by separating it out, those who find it a bit too in-depth can skip over it 😊👍
Another interesting video Tarun. Personally, I enjoy the geek section. And funny you should mention the B&W 606...
Thank you buddy. You, me and many viewers do but it goes over some viewers heads so now they can easily skip that section if they wish 😊👍
I bought the ae300s based on your review. They are great and I cant wait to upgrade my amp and cd transport to make them really hit the spot. Which I am doing soon.
Especially after your feedback last night ref to audiolab 6000 amp and cd transport.
Craig
Thank you Craig. Please let me know how you get on 😊👍
@@abritishaudiophile7314 yeah will do tarun.
👍
@@abritishaudiophile7314 hi tarun. Finally got the audiolab 6000 amp and the audiolab 6000 CDT. To go with my ae300. Wow. Where do i start. Everything is so much better. Bass is awesome but very tight and controlled and the room has been filled with great sound stage now. Very happy. So clear. Finally the speakers have been given a proper amp to give them what they need. Thanks for your recommendation. Really glad I went for audiolab...next upgrade i think is the audiolab dc block.. have you any thoughts on this..
Thanks.. craig
@@craighudson2988 that is a very nice system you have put together. I am not surprised that you are enjoying it. Thank you for the update. I haven’t heard the DC blocker but my iFi AC Purifier does a good job 😊👍
Do you have these speakers paired eith the 6000A? Im trying to find speakers that match
Thanks Tarun, as usual I appreciate your efforts to be objective as much as any of us can be, and your thorough approach. Every day I struggle with myself not to try a pair of AE500s as I have a fixation on that speaker. A little speedy here at $1400. That puts it in direct competition with the Keff 50, Elac Carina, Triangle Elite, and very close to the Dynaudio Evoke 10. While I have a pair of Evoke 20s, I like a variety to listen to, so...???.
Thank you James. That is a nice problem to have. I suspect you may have to scratch that itch at some point 😊👍
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Just what I need, a HiFi enabler.
@@fletchermunson6225 sorry 😉
Hi Tarun, another polished performance from you. In the last 12 months I've tried six different pairs of speakers in my study, where I have a rack of vintage hi-fi. All were small in size to supposedly match the room and the fact that they have to go on one of the long walls facing a couch on the opposite wall. This means they are about 30cm from that wall.
It's this close proximity factor which, I believe, rendered most of them as unlistenable. Either the bass became overpowering, Monitor Audio Silver RS1, or tuneless, MA Bronze BR1 & Bronze 1. The common theme of these speakers is the rear facing port.
The best so far is a pair of Bronze 2 from MA, again. Yes, I know, I just like the MA house sound! These have a forward firing port and manage decent, tuneful bass, even in this highly compromised position.
There is a point to this ramble, honest(!), and this is it. I would only consider small speakers in a room where floorstanders are a non-starter. So, whilst reviewing them in a wonderful freestanding environment may tell you a lot about their absolute abilities, it may not help when it comes to deciding if they work in the kind of room many folk will use them in.
Not sure how you would be able to explore this as part of your review process, unless you have a similarly small room to try them out?
Cheers
Mark
Thank you Mark. Good point about the small room. The distance between the speaker and from the listener is also important. I do listen nearfield with mini-monitors which tells you quite a lot. With experience you can predict how they are likely to behave in a small room. My PSB Imagine Minis are normally in a smallish 3.5m x 4m room. Ultimately, everybody’s room size, shape, construction and setup is different. It is hard to take all of these things into account. Thank you for watching and the question 😊👍
Lovely review, you're fast turning into one of my favourite reviewers.
How about a setup for us techno heads? Something with an extended low end. Dynamics aren't as much an issue with electronic music, since everything is locked in space and all sounds are over engineered in the studio anyways. Would love to see a setup that plays out frequencies from the low 30hz (maybe even full range) on a 1000 or 1500 pound budget (not sure if that's even possible). I'm coming from a pair of Hedd Type 20 studio monitors, that ticks all these boxes, and am wondering if there is anything out there that can get somewhat there on a lower budget.
Thanks again for all your effort!
Thank you GB. That is very much appreciated. I would love to review some more floorstanders but you should see the size of the boxes they come in. I will review some soon 😊👍👍
Excellent review as always. It was interesting and to some extent surprising to note that you think that the performance of these with a £400 amp is not on par with the performance of the AE1 active. Steve Guttenberg put out a whole video on the problems inherent with choosing active speakers as an all-in-one solution, but then maybe he hasn't heard the AE1 and neither have I.
On the other hand, the argument that you can taylor make your sound by choosing amp and speakers cannot be refuted, and let's be honest about it, it's more fun too!
Thank you Robert. I appreciate your support. In this instance, I wouldn’t agree with Steve. There are some inherent advantages that an active design has over a passive. That doesn’t mean it will always be better. I agree, curating your own system is a big part of the fun 😊👍
Thank you, thank you for your impressions and expert advice on the AE300’s. Nice to know they’re forgiving in the decent equipment pairing arena. Makes me want them even more! Been considering these or the quad s2’s for a small listening room (mostly jazz for me). Didn’t know if you had any thoughts/impressions on the Quads.
I second John's request for your views on the Quad S-2, and perhaps the Z-2 as well.
Thank you John. I am sure I will get to them at some point 😊👍
I have spoken to IAG about getting more of their products in 😉👍
@@abritishaudiophile7314 That would be excellent!
I have got the ae300 s . Well happy with them. Not only sound excellent but I love the way they look.
Craig
Great video Tarun. Nice to see how they compared to their powered brothers. Good to see that they pay a lot of attention to match the amplification and speaker in that price point. Looks great for a second system that a1 active.
Thank you Mrhifitunes. I agree, it would make a great second system for those who already have a big system. For those who don’t, I think a lot of people will be happy with the AE1s as their main system. Thank you for watching and commenting buddy 😊👍
Great review as ever m8 :) I use a pair of 90s 4ohm Quadral speakers that are actually from their dalliance into the mid-range market (bass response is out of this world but they are buggers to drive) . However they are just amazing and I don't think I can improve on them without spending a lot of cash. So (inspired by GR research ) I am going to upgrade the the crossovers cables etc. Will report back :)
Would be interesting if you could get Quadral to get you to review a piece of their equipment as they are not very well known outside of Germany . I am still looking to get some Titans some day!
Thank you for watching and the suggestion. I know the brand but haven’t heard their speakers in a long time 😊👍
Good review ... totally interesting as usual, however, I have to learn as to just why so many
speaker manufacturers are making "active" speakers these days. Back in the late 60's and 70's
me and my "stereo buddies" use to call them electric speakers and we tended to avoid them
or just consider them curiosities. Yup, I am that old and believe me ... you youngsters today have
no idea how good you've got it. Some of Andrew Jones creations come to mind ... well ... the ones
you can afford. In any case Tarun, another very good review!!!
There are many technical benefits to an active design, Hi-Fi dealers don't like them because they feel they limit additional sales options (amps, cables, future upgrades etc) so they've never been able to become mainstream (they are in the Pro industry where passives are rarely used). With today's digital sources and people storing so much music on PC's, laptops, phones and tablets they start to make a lot more sense to plug directly in!
Thank you Charles. I think the rise of actives comes with a new generation of listeners who perhaps don’t fit the mould of a traditional audiophile. The decline of dealers means it isn’t as easy to pop down the road and listen to the latest gear. Not so many people want to be continually switch cables, amps or speakers but want a simple solution that works for them. The appeal of not having all those boxes taking up valuable living space can’t be underestimated either. Some of the technical advantages of a active system over a passive system means that it is hard to beat an active system for the money. I can only see the active sector growing but there will always been passive solutions for the hardcore enthusiasts. Thank you for watching and your continued support 😊👍
Good points. Well said James 😊👍
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Cheers Tarun, great and fair review!
@@The_Jimrod thank you for all your help with the queries about the design James. It was really interesting to compare the passive and active speakers from a technical standpoint 😊👍
Those of us in the Colonies apparently cannot buy Acoustic Energy speakers, so my views are moot. However, I am particularly interested in the AE1 model, as it seems close to the state of the art in the emerging powered speaker regime. Your discussion impinges on the advantages of voicing an amplifier with one particular, well voiced combination amplifier(s) and crossover.
I am convinced that powered speakers are the bulk of the future in playback systems. I take heart in your comparisons, here, because they advance that theory somewhat, and explain a modicum of why. (The purists with a passion for hifi hardware jigsaw puzzles will take issue, here. So be it; I'm right.)
I am disheartened that, while we in America have access to playback hardware incoming from much of the world, there's a seeming dearth of offerings from the UK. I am disappointed but am not in tears. I for one tend to appreciate the British gentle voicing stereotype of many UK-intended products. Still, you show that the UK does have a voice in music reproduction, albeit a chauvinistic one. Carry on. I enjoy the structure of your stuff.
Thank you Jim. Very kind of you to say. I agree, I think the active sector will grow. There are some inherent benefits. The designer can choose an amplifier to suit each specific driver and because there is no passive components to go though, the damping factor tends to be much better. Acoustic Energy need to sort out a US distributor. Thank you for watching and sharing Jim 😊👍
We (AE) are gradually making inroads in the US, it's a long process as the market is already saturated with home-grown brands and already established imports - with a limited number of distributors most already have "enough" brands. We've got some representation through The Sound Seller (I actually packed some Actives to send to them on Friday!) but are still working on more widespread coverage... It's a shame we let it slide, used to have great distribution in the US until the owner of the company sadly passed away and the company folded, at that point we had an MD from the US who didn't think it worthwhile to find someone new! :|
@@The_Jimrod thanks James. I was going to ask you about that when I spoke to you next. There seems to be a fair amount of interest from our cousins across the pond. In particular with the AE1 actives 😉
@@The_Jimrod I understand. The American/Canadian market is pretty much flooded, and I expect a culling out to occur this year. On the flip side, powered speakers are just gaining ground with non-obsessive/compulsive listeners. In America, you could test the water if you can get samples reviewed positively by the likes of Steve Guttenberg and Sean at Zero Fidelity. Sean knows marketing in depth. Thanks for the insight, good luck and regards,
@@jimshaw899 Thanks for the info Jim, I was going to get in touch with Steve Guttenberg at some point last year and can't remember if I tried now! I met him while I was in the US some 10-12 years ago while we were still in the market. I might give it another go... Currently we're getting set with a good Canadian distributor so will have gradually more presence on the continent at least! We're not in a huge rush as demand has been outstripping supply for us this last year or so across our ranges - I'd rather make a concerted effort when we can back it up reliably. Much appreciated!
Hi Tarun. Thanks for the review.
When is the Buchardt A500 review likely to appear? Can't wait
Thank you Will. I have completed initial listening tests. Investigating the Dirac and then the Master Tunings next. Got a couple of reviews to get out first so hopefully it won’t be too long 😊👍
Very well done. Another fine video. Interesting that you compared them to the LS35A. Maybe a better choice than the Sound Artist version of the LS35A? Thank you.
Thank you buddy. Great to hear from you 😊👍
Like to see there's still an interest in stereo equipment.... Just set up my old technics/monitor audio in bedroom and it has qualities above my roksan gear 🔉😊
Thank you for watching and sharing Andrew 😊👍
The room makes a huge difference try swapping the components around if it's a different room iv done this many times thinking it's the gear that's better and it wasn't
Yeah my living room is an awful shape for stereo set up, can't get a sweet spot and the bass sounds better half way up the stairs 🔉😵
@@savagejabbit5929 not good
This is actually quite interesting. Even with the Hegel the A300 did not sound as good as the active?! Shows that component synergy in active speakers plays huge role. And I have to admit that I see active speakers as the future of audio
Thank you for watching Jay. I think the active sector will grow too 😉👍
I agree but for now the passive has way more options
@@andreasmoller9798 and the upgrade path is more accessible 😊
I do too, but possible over the slain bodies of crazy audiophiles....
@@jimshaw899 Get this. Some active speakers that sound amazing don't even have cables. Imaging that. Great sound without cables. Heads will explode 🤯.
Another good one. The consistency of your presentation is much appreciated.
The Ae1 actives seem like a better choice than the Ae300s, especially for ppl that don't have an amp, which I don't. In the Ae1 action review you did, in the section about equipment matching you talked about pairing them with a streamer and the chord mojo. I'm looking for a box (I don't know the proper term, maybe 'preamp') that I can use as a little hub to receive outputs from my TV, phone and Blu-ray and that can be remote controlled to adjust volume and input setting.
I could use the mojo on its own but there's no remote and I'd have to unplug things and get up to change the volume. I was looking at the chord Hugo 2 which seems like a really great bit of kit but it's about £1800 or something like that. What are some options or examples of bits of kit that would work with the chord mojo to allow for remote control, or be a replacement/alternative to the chord Hugo 2.
I like that chord Hugo 2 a lot, it looks like just the kind of thing I'm after but the price is a bit painful.
Thanks again for all these vids.
Hi William, I haven’t heard it yet but the ADI RME 2 FS DAC is getting quite a lot of attention and has all the features you want. Worth checking out. Thank you for watching and your support 😊👍
@@abritishaudiophile7314 thanks Tarun.
Good one Tarun. AE's naming convention takes some understanding. I have some AE 301s which are a few years old. So 300 > 301 in this case!
Thank you Tim. AE are one of the better ones when it comes to product names. Try get your head around the ADI RME 2 FS 😩😊
I would be very happy if you review Acoustic energy AE500 and QUAD S-2 bookshelf speakers :)
I hope to in time. Thank you for watching Povilas 😊👍
Another great review I've used acoustic energy speakers over the years to great effect, just wondering what you film your reviews on as the picture quality isn't brilliant on this review.
It is filmed on my iPad Paul. It is a little hazy on this one. It sure why. Thank you for watching at putting up with it 😉👍
Remember those good old days of entry level gear and upgrading through Mid to Low High-End and beyond if cash allowed, or credit limits (GULP!) Those big leaps in resolution and all things audio nerd-d-ness. I miss them.
I would love to say I've finally found the perfect system but I'm already looking at a pair of Subs!
I remember them fondly 😉👍
It was designed by the BBC to monitor vocals only. Other speakers were used for monitoring music.
I've had (and loved) Ruark Sabres for nearly 30 years. Do you think its finally time to test them against these or more dynamic speakers at a similar price e.g. Dynaudio Emits? How different do you think they would be (assuming no bad caps in the Ruarks).
The Sabres were very good speakers back then. I think they will fair pretty well today. I haven’t heard them for years though but did own a pair for a while. I expect the best speakers today will be a little cleaner and more dynamic but whether you will prefer the overall tonality is another question 😊
You’re describing the experience I have with my AE309s. For jazz, acoustic and vocal music, those loudspeakers are really shining. Did you try their subwoofer (AE308) ? I’m hesitating to add their subwoofer or the REL T7i. There are no review of the AE308. Regards,
Thank you for watching and sharing your experiences Christian. I haven’t tried the AE308 as yet 😉👍
I’m thinking of getting a pair of AE309’s, do they produce adequate bass as they are a floorstander? My room size is 14ft by 13ft
Is that a Sony CD player sitting in the rack above the IOTA? What model would that be and how do you like it? I like it when you put a system together of similar price points and thought the CD player might fit in there as well for a lower priced system. Great review as always.
Thank you Plaubel. Well spotted. It is a Sony BDP 7200 which I use as a transport for Blu-Ray, DVD, CD and SACD feeding an external DAC. Not a bad transport all things considered 😉👍
Roger’s are on my wish list for a while but spend a lot on Headphones 🎧 so wify put me on budget now 🙁
Question Tarun , now I m more than convinced after your few recent reviews that AE A1active are really good and do want em for my bedroom ... do I need to position em to get the right centre image?
Cheers Tarun , once again I appreciate your honest opinion.
Hi Atri, the AE1 actives are quite forgiving of room positioning and the bass and treble controls on the back help. However, like all speakers they need to be set up properly to get a solid centre image. Thank you for watching and your continued support 😊👍
Hey Atri. My ear tends to agree with Taruns from what I've seen of his reviews.
I've been using some AE1 Actives for a month or so now and I'm constantly impressed by them.
The other thing related to your question of positioning. I've gone from flat square on to a fair bit of toe-in. They also work fantastically well as a nearfield monitors.
I'd be suprised if you regretted buying a pair :)
@@MrGutterbunny thanks to both of you ... i apriciate your time as these are on sale with BLUESOUND NODE 2I @ £1349 at the moment ... cheers
Taran - as a reviewer/journalist of Electronic music, I have been searching for a pair of detailed (strong micro details), dynamic and transient bookshelf speakers to pair with the Audiolab 6000A. I was advised that the A300 may be the solution but not according to your review. Hence, can you reccommend a pair?
Plenty of choice. I like the Amphion Argon 1s. They have that tonal characteristic 😊
@@abritishaudiophile7314 1200 pounds is well above my budget. How about 600 pound threshold?
@@CovertOperative I would check out the Wharfedale Evo 4.2s. I haven’t formally reviewed them but heard them with the 6000A and sounded impressive 😊
You mentioned the B&W being better for rock music, but would it be better than the AE1 actives? I'm an avid metal fan whilst still having a broad taste in different genres.
Hi Kurt, I haven’t done a direct AB comparison but I doubt it will be as good as the AE1 actives. However, the 606 is a fast and a little bright sounding which can be fun with rock music 😊
Awesome review Tarun! What speakers would you pair with Rega PL3 and Rega Brio, I have a relatively small room with not much wiggle room.
Thank you Vinesh. There is a lot to consider. It depends on what kind of sound characteristics you are looking for and how the speakers will be set up in your room 😊👍
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Hey Tarun, thanks for your reply. I dont listen to rock music, mainly jazz and acoustic stuff. The problem is i dont have much space behind the speaker, and i know how you says that so important,
@@vineshchhaya3525 thank you Vinesh. I think you may want to take a look at a something like the Elac Debut Reference or if you want to spend a bit more and are listening around 2m away from the speakers then the ProAC Tablettes will be a good choice 😊👍
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Thanks Tarun, I really appreciate your advice. Shame the don’t make the Aurilac Aries mini now, now they start £2k!
@@vineshchhaya3525 check out the Primare NP5 😉👍
If you have ever thought of running an online course on hifi/audio engineering, to know the usual topology of an amplifier and speaker, let me know, I would seriously consider it.
That is an interesting idea. I don’t think I am really qualified. I am very flattered though. Thank you for watching and your continued support Wie 😊👍
@@abritishaudiophile7314 you don't have to be qualified academically, u just share what u know factually with a group of noobs who want to know the inner workings of an amp and speaker.
@@wiebl5266 thank you Wie 😊👍
will you be doing any vids on complete systems? like "best system for $1,000", "best starter audiophile system" that kind of thing?
I am sure I will do in time.
Q Acoustics 3030i or AE 300 with my Naim Uniti2 for electronic music, Jazz and acoustic genres mostly on vinyl? It's impossible to book an audition these days sadly.
Sorry Rusty, I haven’t heard the 3030is.
I have the AE500s with the carbon fiber drivers and improved cabinets, and based on your characterization of the AE300s here, the AE500s are comparatively quick, tonally accurate and neutral. The only similarity is they are also non-fatiguing. Interesting that AE don't consider important maintaining a consistent sound signature throughout the lineup.
I am sure I will get to the AE500s too at some point. I suspect the carbon fibre drivers may have a lot to do with the tonal change. Thank you for watching and sharing Michael 😊👍
@@abritishaudiophile7314 You both make good and correct points - the materials used dictate the tonal character, our entry level paper/fabric, mid level aluminium/aluminium and top level carbon/carbon driver combos are designed to work as a seamless whole (as much as one can) and are tuned by ear once mechanical elements are where we want them, this often results in each range having it's own sound signature suiting the tonal character rather than trying to force a "house sound" where it wouldn't work. A large part of my input is removing any irritation, be it sibilance, distortion, basically any peak which makes its presence felt and disturbs the musical involvement - the human ear is far more forgiving of dips than peaks. We always try to engineer those distortions out as much as possible before we even start tuning, hence the relatively dead cabinets on the 500 Series, taking them out of play acoustically, by contrast the 100 Series has little bracing to use the cabinet and add warmth to the 4" driver output. There's no one formula that works for every application.
@@The_Jimrod thank you James 😊👍
@@abritishaudiophile7314 No probs, apologies for typo's - the joys of replying on a mobile when tired. :D
@@The_Jimrod don’t worry. I do that all the time 😊👍
Hey Tarun ,Guess what my B&W 606's just came in yesterday and yes so far Rock sounds good.. found the highs a little fatiguing ....they do go deep felt the vocals were slightly recessed...but maybe I will have to give em some burnin time .
Hi Anand, the B&Ws are a little on the bright side but they will sound even brighter when first out of the box. Please let me know how you get on 😊👍
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Certainly Tarun will update you with more details in a couple of weeks
Hi Tarun. Been lurking around your channel for a while as I appreciate your character. (Not being a sellout 🤣) and couldn't help but notice you placed AE100² in your short list for the year. It's easy to read between the lines... Was that a consideration of cost/performance, or would the 100² just be genuinely better speakers?
Thank you. The 100 mk2 are great for the money. The 300s I found to be lacking some detail and too rolled off on top. I haven’t done an A/B between them though 😊
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Appreciate it. Thank you.
Paired with marantz nr 1200 i am pleased with the performance.how would the ae 300 compare to kef ls50?
The LS50s are more revealing, brighter and harder to drive. What you prefer will depend on your taste 😉
Regarding the AE line, do you have any experience or recollection of AE 300 models of the early 2000s? I am looking at a pair of Acoustic Energy AESPRIT 300CK standmounts which are larger than todays AE 300 series and uses a softdome tweeter with an AlMg woofer. If anyone has had any experience with these speakers, you're welcome to express your opinions. Thanks.
Hi NC, I know the speakers but do not have any recollection of what they sounded like. Sorry 😊
What type of legs should Energy AE300 be used with? Use as iron, steel or wood 4 is better or more suitable. 4 legs or single pole, thank you
I wouldn’t worry about the material the stand is made from too much. Make sure you get the right height and the tweeter is at ear height and in the right position in your room 😊
Just got into hifi last month and I was over the moon at first, loving the sound - until I started noticing distortion on certain songs, (Fitter Happier from Radiohead/ Doo Wop from lauryn Hill, etc) ..
I was convinced it was faulty hardware, but perhaps it’s “breakup modes” as you describe here. Using Cambridge CXA81 with KEF q350 speakers and the distortion seems to be coming from its metal tweeter, sounds almost like vinyl record crackling - not overly loud but annoying and happens at any volume.
Do you have any advice on what I can do to diagnose the issue for sure? I’ll be so disappointed if I end up having to return this setup - I felt like I found the ideal hifi at first; The kefs have great synergy with amp and SVS sub.
I would swop out one component at a time in your system to find out what the culprit is 😊
Have you ever tried the Acoustic Energy AE500s with the IOTAVX SA3? I assume that the better speakers -- and I've heard that the AE500s are *excellent* for just over 1,000 pounds -- will reveal weaknesses in the nice budget integrated amplifier, but I'm wondering if the IOTAVX SA3 would be good enough with the AE500s until I can replace it with a better amp. What do you think?
I haven’t tried the AE500 but hope to at some point 😊
@@abritishaudiophile7314 From what I've heard, they're excellent. I listened to some sound demos of the KEF LS50 Metas vs. the AE500, and I definitely preferred the AE500.
Hi Tarun, which LS3/5a's did you get to listen to in the end?
Over the years I have listened to various versions over the years including the Falcon, Rogers and Graham Audio variants 😊
@@abritishaudiophile7314 😎 Did you have a favourite? Ever listen them through a valve amp?
@@1jhnpennington I have never heard any of them at home. Hope to remedy that at some point. I bet my Exposure Pre/monos would sound great with them. I can’t remember if I heard any of them with a valve amp 🤔😊
Hi Tarun.. please do an interview with Mr Randall Messman @cheapaudiomam. Ron did...
Would love to. Is would be great fun 😉👍
Any chance you could review the Wharfdale Linton 85th Anniversary speakers? Want to get a true perspective from my fellow countryman
I like the look of those speakers too 🔉🔉😊
@@savagejabbit5929 I am in the US now and some reviewers can be a bit biased here to 'English' voiced speakers hehe
Google the what hifi review 😊🔉🔉
Hope to 😉👍
Hi! I can get the AE 301 and the Aelite 1 below 150 usd both in close to mint condition. Which one do you think sound best please? (listening to music and movie streaming) thanks much!
I haven’t heard the Aelite 1 😊
@@abritishaudiophile7314 thanks!
Hey Tarun, how will this pair with Audiolab 6000a? Also, how about the larger AE500?
I just reviewed the 509’s. I am pretty certain that the 500’s will be a very good match for the 6000A. The 300’s are also a good choice. You may want to check out my review 😊
ruclips.net/video/cK_HHcN26MI/видео.html
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Excellent, thanks for the response. Will check out the review :) Acoustic Energy is somewhat of an unknown brand in the US, but from what have seen on the you tube reviews and some sound samples, looks like a great choice.
@@vinny1577 indeed. Maybe a US distributor may pick them up in the future 😊👍
Skip a section!....... Skip a section?.... Nope.... Where's the fun in that... 😊... Gotta get my geek on too 👍🏻
Glad to hear it! 🥳 Many viewers enjoy the technical stuff but now those who don’t can easily move on 😊👍
Thank you Thrun ,will the work with the audiolab a6000 ? Best regards reinhart
I didn’t have the 6000A here at the same time but I would say so. As the 6000A is similar to the Iota VX SA3 but with a better DAC and more refinement 😉👍
@@abritishaudiophile7314 thank you Tarun.
I have this setup myself Reinhart. I am a fan of the british hifi sound, and they pair very nicely in my opinion.
@@simmow485 thank you.
However, I am no Tarun. Ears getting on a little now. I definitely appreciate the warmth and imaging in acoustic vocal tracks.
I can't get the idea out of my head of the AE1 active with a Bluesound Node 2i for the kitchen, to stream music, radio and podcasts. With equalisation technology in the AE1s I recon that I can postition it close to a wall/on a shelf and not compromise the sound too much. Anyone out there tried this combination for gerneral listening?
Hi Nigel, the AE1 Active's were designed on a Bluesound Node 2 if that helps! :)
I have exactly that setup in my living room. AE1 actives connected to a Bluesound Node 2i. I use them to stream Tidal and for TV audio via Toslink. They are the best sounding equipment I have. I dont have a lot of setups to compare it too, I'd say its in an entire different league to my office rig which is Elac B6 and Rotel RA-12 via Apple Extreme.
What is the tonal difference compared with the Wharfedale Denton, for the same price here in Montreal. I want to try an easier driving speaker from my current Evoke 20.
I haven’t done an A/B between them but the AE300 and Denton are both tonally on the warm side. I suspect you might miss the extra resolution you get from your Evoke 20s though 🤔
@@abritishaudiophile7314 thanks, then might settle for evoke 10 though still 84 db so maybe not easier to drive
@@phitur are you downsizing?
@@abritishaudiophile7314 i want speakers for a small room. I find the evoke at low volume lack Mid but with too much base. Looking at around 1500$ US
Ae500 or neat sx3 for example
"Perfectly Natural" are your ProAc Response 1SC's...
That’s is what I says on the tin. Well said 😊👍
Hey Gerry.
As a general music listener I'm not so sure I want super honest playback. I always aimed for ultra honesty but finally grasp enjoyment over impressive.
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Speaking of your Proac's... where would you place them compared to the AE1 active, would they fare better than the AE300 did when paired with the IOTA VX or the Hegel? Thanks, you're answer might help me decide on my next audio acquisition.
@@mikecees2230 the ProAc 1Scs with my Hegel H160 are quite a bit better than the AE1s but also 4.5x the price. Now the 1SCs with the Iota VX SA3 would be an interesting comparison but I would have to get them back in to do an AB comparison 😉
@@abritishaudiophile7314 I foolishly sold a pair of Proacs two years ago when I was in a downsizing frenzy after moving into a smaller apartment. After trying a few other brands I'm seriously considering going back to Proacs. Unfortunately this isn't the best time for demoing audio gear.
If these are the poor man's ls35a, where do the AE aegis ones from year 2000 stand? Something I'm using with satisfaction for years and conceivably will only be bettered by a ribbon powered upgrade.
I haven’t tried the Aegis Ones.
Where's the pooch ? Is the Buchardt A500 coming up for review by you ?
He was sleeping, with lockdown in the U.K. I have to shoot at night 🥱 Working on the A500 review. There is a lot to play with in that system 😉👍
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Yes.. The A500 looks to be a very comprehensive system. It works out to be 3x the price of a AE1 here in my part of the world. I am wondering if after all the features like room correction and eq profiles are put aside how they compare sound wise. I know you will do a great job.. No pressure :-)
@@jcisme thank buddy 😊👍
any chance u review dali rubicon 6
I haven’t spoken to Dali yet but plan to at some point. Thank you for watching and your suggestion 😊👍
If the zensor 3 is anything to go by they will be awesome 👌🔉😊
Reminds me of Canton Karat 30's
Cool 😎
Where's the review for the actives I can't see a video
Working on it John. Hopefully, another couple of weeks 😉
I agree, the LS3-5A is out of date, PMC, ATC, Monitor Audio, B & W and Focal are some of many other manufactures that are far better.
Thank you Mat. From a technical standpoint, perhaps but not necessarily from a tonal quality perspective. Which is highly subjective, of course 😊👍
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Of course, but I always found the LS3-5A too "cuddly". Tonally, the other manufacturers are far more accurate. Especially the way that detail, a true audiophile main priority.
what is that weak high pitched noise in the background ?
It is the noise from the usb C mic and the poor quality internal DAC when connected to my iPad Pro 😉
Can I be a bit controversial I think you should play music through whatever you are reviewing - obviously we can't hear the differences via our computers but it ads to the drama. Reviewers show 8K TV's in reviews and it adds to the theatre even though I can't see the benefits on my Mac screen. It can help a review to flow and allows us see your expressions as you listen - just a suggestion.
Thank you Brian. I agree it would be entertaining but I can’t get it past copyright infringement issues 😉
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Did you try sources for copyright free audio like
@@brianwalsh1844 I haven’t had time to as yet 😉
Am I fooling myself to think an NAD C328 paired with AE-100's will sound decent with a bit of rock n roll and some 80's dance music? I'm not prepared to spend up for the AE-1's, DAC, source, cables etc. And wish to keep things as simple as possible.
It won’t compete with the AE1s but is a nice system for the money 😊
Why do they port speakers that have no bass?
To extend the low frequency response 😉
@@abritishaudiophile7314 what about my other question?!!!
These horrible little standmount boxes are like half a speaker, but sold at full price. A floorstander takes up the same space and actually has some bass and dynamics. Don't get taken in.
Floorstander are not always better that stand mounted speakers Nick. It depends on the room size and application 😉