*Hey ! If you enjoyed the video, please click the like button on the video - doesn't cost you anything and it helps me make more videos like this !* *Purchase links* KLH Kendall: Crutchfield: shop-links.co/choeGjckdhC Amazon: amzn.to/3tkcqYb KLH Model 5: Crutchfield: shop-links.co/chmstJFmNLt Amazon: amzn.to/39dIG8n Polk R700: Crutchfield: shop-links.co/chkAGVuuZaM *My Daily Components (All Tested And Proved To Work in Blind Tests)* Fancy speaker stands I use: shop-links.co/choe8oQHC9w Speaker stands I use (budget): amzn.to/3ssRhI3 Desktop Speaker Stands I Use: shop-links.co/chofc1R7mpT acoustic panels I use: ua-acoustics.com/ acoustic curtain: amzn.to/31d1zAM my fav hifi tweaks: (Isoacoustics devices) amzn.to/3j5FGvM Speaker Isolation Feet I Use: shop-links.co/choffy3csSK Turntable Isolation I Use: shop-links.co/chofgeNORJP Component Isolation I Use: shop-links.co/chofhTC3wc7 *Related videos (All Components I mentioned in this video)*: KLH Model 5: ruclips.net/video/ACCS3Q_TcZM/видео.html Polk R700 Speaker review: ruclips.net/video/DH8JB1PZH48/видео.html Buchardt s400 MKII: ruclips.net/video/PJRBMCA3FzI/видео.html CSS Audio 1 TDX: ruclips.net/video/MbksuZdrdV8/видео.html Sonus Faber electa amator III: ruclips.net/video/yYIAWzSh1pQ/видео.html Totem Tribe Towers: ruclips.net/video/JOreZP9uNhA/видео.html Doge10 Mk3 Tube Integrated Amplifier: ruclips.net/video/bLergX82w8w/видео.html Denafrips Thallo and Hades: ruclips.net/video/F7m_nRvE17k/видео.html Iotavx sa3+pa3: ruclips.net/video/o1kvxPOd9-s/видео.html 0:00 Intro 1:05 Breakdown 1:58 KLH Sound Review 9:12 KLH Kendall vs KLH Model 5 11:12 Limitations? 13:06 KLH Build Quality 17:25 Best Amplifiers For KLH 20:02 KLH Kendall VS Polk R700 20:50 KLH Kendall VS Tekton DI 22:37 KLH Kendall VS Buchardt S400 MKII 23:53 KLH Kendall VS CSS Audio 1TDX
I love these speakers! In 2020 I heard some really nice reviews and they were going for 1299,so I went to World Wide Stereo just to check out, it wasn’t advertised but they were on sale for 974.00, Sold! Never ever seen them anywhere since on sale and now they’re going for 1500, I matched them with the Marantz pm7000n integrated amp around same time and got that for 999, now they’re going for 1299. I really lucked out and did well with my investment , it’s a very nice sounding set up , very happy !
It's interesting how 3 way designs for more affordebel speakers are back in business. When I began my hi-fi journey back in the late 80's, there were still a lot of 3 way designs like it was the case for most of the 70's and 80's. But during the 90's the 3 way designs almost disappeared all together and it was almost regarded as a no-no to own a 3 way design unless it was in the high end category. I think it's great they are back!
Am also a 3-way fan, just wish more of them were dome shaped mid-range drivers as that fills the room better, the concave design usually makes vocals sound cupped and recessed. ATC has shown the way on this since 1976, surprising so few others have followed aside from PMC, Proac, Wharfedale.
Not true really, but 2-way is way cheaper to manufacture. Good 10" is almost twice the price of 6", plus crossover and enclosure. I guess in 90s the design went into how to make simple spkrs with quality parts. Some of the first computer measurements system and CAD design showed up. Today technology, knowledge of how to measure and design are so much better than 30yrs ago, one could only dream about DSP crossovers, equalization, room correction so readily used today in studio monitors. Something what Klippel scanner does in one day would take a week or more back then.
@@connorduke4619 While that may be true for some systems, it’s the absolute opposite for the Kendall’s!! The midrange reproduction of the Kendall’s will have you listening to all of your vocal recording all over again!! I received a SACD Copy of the Carpenters greatest hits and Karen Carpenters voice is simply sublime!! Seal’s “Kiss from a Rose” is as accurate and rich as you’ll ever hear!! Dual smaller woofer design where one of the woofers does help process the lower end midrange is fairly new in relative terms, and the info you base your comment on is simply not applicable here!
Yes very true. My Dad was int he Army and home audio was huge. You could easily see a lot more variety in loud speaker design 1950-1990 than today. The market was not so polarized and was a lot more open minded with reguard to design. I think they where also much smarter and less brainwashed by marketing and mass consumerism because the idea that cost = quality was not as rigidly believed as it is today! That said design possabilities are the best they have been in a long time but prices adn buying power of the dollar are at their worst and the markup on a lot of gear not just speakers is crazy!
The last 10 years, especially with the introduction of the Elac Debut series, there has been such an emphasis on "bang for buck" that we've ended up with a bunch of speakers in black ash vinyl wrap. But I'm realizing- there is nothing wrong with paying extra for great looking real wood cabinets. These Kendall's being a great example.
I told you Jay!! And keep in mind these speakers came out in 2019 and I snagged a pair for $1299.00 a pair!! It will be in interesting how many mainstream reviewers will now give a serious look at reviewing these, one could probably say...the single most underrated speaker system since they were introduced. And about that bass, Hans Wentzle from Soundstage wrote: "To its credit, the KLH did have output down to 25Hz, as I confirmed with test tones, but it was notably down in level. To my ears, the Kendalls’ output was flat and remarkably tight down to about 30Hz -- still highly commendable." I have written since I received my pair of Kendall's on several review/sites and it just seemed like without a "vintage" name like "Model 5", most reviewers just didn't believe KLH based on what they had produced yeas previously, could produce a "NEW" line of competitive speakers. But as I said to you before Jay, the Kendall was the bargain speaker in KLH's line. I have the Black Walnut, which for me is perfect in its non-reflective cabinet that disappears during listening even with the grills off, at night. Pair these up with what I have a, 100 Clean watts per channel Yamaha AS-801, and a Blusound Node2i, and you have a world class system for right around three grand!! And I agree with you, when driven right, these speakers can throw sound behind you!! And from a production standpoint Jay, (I am a producer) wear a lav mic for when you move around, the volume drops considerably. Great review man!!
Great review. Personally, I prefer the Polk R700. Especially if you’re not going to use a sub. For me, the Polk sound-staging is superior; the bass articulation is superior; and the midrange is more musical. I also compared the Polk R700 to Focal Aria 948, 926, and KHL Model 5 and preferred the Polk.
If you’ve actually auditioned both then I respect your comment, but I do own the Kendall’s, and have auditioned the Polk R700, and the Kendall’s are much more accurate and less colored than the Polks. But don’t get me wrong the Polk R700, is a very impressive loudspeaker system. But the shear size\width do affect the soundstage vs. the Kendall’s. I have the Black Walnut finish which, with the grills off, looks very professional. These are no frills, high performance loudspeakers and if you haven’t actually heard them, which for most is impossible unless you own them because they are exclusively distributed by World Wide, and are not offered in but a few retail stores, I strongly suggest you do. The only system that bested the Kendall’s in my auditions were the Focal Cantù. But for 10,000…..they should.
@@Csnumber1 Do the Kendalls have better Imaging than the R700 and are they "3D Holographic" like the Klipsch RP8000 ? I'am deciding between the Kendalls, Polk R700 and Klipsch RP8000. Usecase would be 50% Movies 50% Music.
Always nice to see more "good "affordable 3 way speakers. That designer at KLH seems to know what he was doing. I was looking at these before, but too tall for my room (blocked the TV from the sides lol) so went with model 5s.
A pair of KLH Kendall is now priced (2 years later) at $2,000 pair. The listed frequency response is 36 Hz to 38,000 KHz. With a center channel Kendall speaker being $1,000, and a pair of Kendall Bookshelf or surround speakers for $1,000 a pair. There isn't a Kendall subwoofer to match. Only the KLH Stratton subwoofers which are pretty decently priced with a 12 inch sub going for around $600 with 200 watts RMS (frequency response 25 Hz - 180 Hz).
I have to point out that Jay has done a phenomenal job over the last few months or more on his reviews. I'll admit he was a little "Hollywood" for me before but he's calmed his demeanor and it seems like he's more thoughtful on his analysis. Much more pleasing to listen to. Not that I didn't like his channel before but now I feel like he's really polished his presence. Keep it up Jay!
Now if he can tighten up his audio when he moves around, that “polish” will be complete!! I’m in production and as all of us are, very critical of audio.
These are basicly a modern remake of the classic KLH 283A like mine from around 1995. The KLH 283A has 2 8" subwoofers, a 5 1/4 inch mid range and a tweeter. 250W RMS rear single ported. In 1995 they where $229 each but if you hagled at the audio store you could get them for less. I think they are rated 35hz to 25khz. I still have mine and they are still working great. IIRC properly they are somewhere in the 90db-95db 1w/1m area. All of this is from memory so I might not be on the money but am close. People put KLH down all the time but I think it is just that most youngsters today are fairly ignorant of what came before from affordably hifi to super expensive audiophile from the 1950's through 1990's. I am driving mine with a Carver Amp.
For a 25hz response, these bad boys would need two 10's per tower! Matter of fact, KLH should SERIOUSLY consider a "next step up" model doing just that, maybe using an acoustic suspension design and keep the price around 2k. Would be a KLH home run! I like the look of these btw, never anything wrong with the "no frills" look.
Hans Wentzle from Soundstage wrote: "To its credit, the KLH did have output down to 25Hz, as I confirmed with test tones, but it was notably down in level. To my ears, the Kendalls’ output was flat and remarkably tight down to about 30Hz -- still highly commendable."
Hello Jay: I just ordered a pair of these KLH Kendall speakers in the American Walnut finish. They will be partnered with a pair of REL T/5x subwoofers. My use will be in a 2-channel audio system. I will re-comment after a generous break-in and testing/evaluation period. The expected arrival date is about 10 days out.
In my opinion, you have found an excelent format for your videos. It took you some time (sorry for that 😆), but, now you are one of the most complete reviewers around here. Thanks for your job, man.
I've had these for about three years. I was blown away by how good they sounded right away. With time I have discovered a single significant shortcoming: their maximum SPL is not super high. When cranked up to very high levels they produce a lot of bass distortion. I bought these specifically for low level listening and they really deliver when played at or below "reference levels." After a few years of daily use, I feel like the Kendall's are practically flawless for my low volume listening. At high levels I think they are bass-heavy. I also agree with Jay that the bass doesn't go as deep as the specs claim. There is plenty of bass volume, but not as low as I'd like. On the aesthetics, I feel like the minimalist look is great - like modern Scandinavian furniture rather than cheap looking. The bases do look kind of cheap though. In essence I do like the look a lot, but that's just personal preference. I think this review is very dependable. It matches my own years-long experience with them to a T. Everything Jay says about the sound, the sound staging, room placement, etc., matches what I've found exactly.
I would have to disagree whole heartedly....What Jay did not mention in this video was the use of the included Port Plugs which are essential to setting them up. I use them on the bottom ports, with the speakers placed almost two feet from the wall. I deliver the signal through a Yamaha AS-801 rated at 100 high current amps and played at reference level deliver with ease. I suggest you experiment with your placement and use of the port plugs. Or look at your Amp pairing.
@@Csnumber1 are you implying that using the port plugs then gives you the bass that the specs claim? As a side note, I used the A-S 801 integrated amp for almost a month and I am about to send it back to Crutchfield that thing is weak as hell for 100wpc... I don't get it!?! How are you getting that to produce a fulfilling sound? I paired with Jamo 809s towers (120 wpc). I thought it would be a good match but it was very underwhelming. So I am kinda surprised that the Yamaha amp can drive these speakers! LMK. Thanks
@@Csnumber1 I suppose you're right about Jay leaving off any info about the port plug options. Honestly I kind of wish they came with enough port plugs to completely seal them both because I found the sound very pleasing that way when I did it to just one. I tried a number of amplification schemes including a little desktop class D amp (worked quite well), Emotiva A-300 (fine but not special), Adcom GFA-545 II (very nice), McIntosh MC7100 (very nice), and 2 AudioSource AMP 100s bridged into mono mode as my "poor man's monoblocks" (very nice). I ultimately use the McIntosh because that's the most durable, reliable equipment I have and it's what I have in place for my primary setup where I want to use these speakers. I moved the KLH Kendalls all over the room and got much better sound, to my ear, by pulling them way out into the room, about 1/3 of the way into the room from the wall. That's not practical for me to maintain, but I typically use them about 18" from the wall behind them and 2 feet from the side walls in a room that's about 12'x15'. That sounds as close as possible to the best I can get without having them out in the middle of the room. I have the bottom ports plugged, but I really didn't find much difference in the sound when I plugged the top ports instead. I have them facing completely forward rather than toed for a wide but less than laser-precise sweet spot. I do occasionally point them at the listening position for some solitary focused listening time. I find these to be pretty easy to drive. Almost every amp I tried with these with could push them way louder than my comfort level without any difficulty. I find the bass to be the weakest aspect of this model. It's not weak bass volume. It's bass that does not go very very low and cannot play very very loud. It's a bass heavy tuning that breaks up at very high volumes. The bass sounded best on my "hillbilly HiFi" setup with two inexpensive AudioSource AMP 100 background music "restaurant audio" amps bridged into mono mode. But at very very high volumes the bass becomes so over emphasized that it not only overwhelms the mid and high, it also becomes unusably distorted, and that is borne out in measurements that I've seen published. They play plenty loud and quite powerfully and nicely in the bass. I wanted to use these without a subwoofer, and I do. They go loud and they go low, but they don't go very very loud or very very low. If you want shear volume on modern bass-heavy music, these will distort badly. It's not what I got them for, but I was still a little sad that these don't play nicely with Deadmau5 at very high volumes. I just have to remind myself that I chose to go with multiple, affordable, purpose-specific systems over one very expensive multi-tasker. These are really excellent for my intended purpose which is; high quality recordings, vinyl, Classical, Jazz, and low volume listening. I have another system for MP3s, streaming, Techno, Pop, background, video, and high volume listening.
@@AndyBHome So let me share a few tweaks that really made a big difference. On the speakers themselves I rigged the feet with some adjustable metal feet I found a Loews who’s thread pitch matched perfectly. And what I experienced with was, as well as toeing them in, was pitching them both up about a half inch, using my iPhones compass and bubble tool which made for a very accurate adjustment. Second, and incredibly so….I used very short runs of 12 gauge speaker cable, terminated with SILVER BANANA PLUGS. And what a freaking massive difference it made!! I would really suggest you do toe them in and pitch them up because the bass dispersion is so much better and because of the quite narrow cabinets, you won’t be losing anything in terms of sound staging. As far as playing loud, we’ll I’ve had no problems there with the Yamaha AS801, which one post here said it was underpowered, when all who have reviewed this amplifiers say just the complete opposite. I can only wonder if the switch in the back of his amp that everyone says not to touch was switched. :). Good luck and have fun!!
@@rainbowheart2728 Every review of this amp says the exact opposite!! Check that switch in the back and make sure it wasn’t changed. For its a bargain and plays as loud as I need it for my small to medium room.
I really enjoyed your review of the Polk 700 speakers. I have owned Polk Audio speakers in the past and have enjoyed them. I currently own Vandersteen 2 Ce speakers. It is great to hear outstanding reviews about Polk speakers , as they are often looked down on by some Audiophiles. There are great audio products that down cost a small fortune. Keep the reviews coming.
Hi jay, do you know the klh kendalls now have a new model called the kendall mkii. it will be nice if you review them and do a comparison with the old model. thanks for all your great reviews
I sold KLH speakers for Luskins electronics in the 90s and they always looked great but didn't have that sparkle in the top range at all back then . It's good to see they fixed that. The new Three days grace album drop about a month ago now but I just noticed and it's a incredible album. It's like they taken steroids lyrically and musically for this album. It's crazy good. A album that feels like it's part of u !!
96 dB sensitivity with that freq resp will save you a lot of money on amps. Double the volume of a normal speaker if that is true. Reminds me a little of the Axiom M60 setup.
Jay, I trust your opinion about these and I'm very interested. Currently I have a Primare PRE35 and 2x Krell KAV2250 with an old set of B&W CM9 gen 1 (1000w @8ohm into each cm9) How would there's KLH sound in comparison of the cm9 and where would you need to be you think in B&Ws series to compete with these for sound enjoyment...703....805? (I also have a svs SB13Ultra spare if that helps) I'm slowly starting my research for new speakers..can you help...I'm open to trying anything. Thanks alot and I really appreciate the honesty in your your videos.
I really appreciate your evaluation, although, based on your comparison, I wish you would have spoke about the KLH I'm terms of value. The Tekton are literally double the price and the Bucharts cost over 1000.00 more. I would be interested in seeing what KHL would create building to that price point. That said, the Kendalls are already punching above their weight.
Wow, comparisons to five other high performing speakers you reviewed?! You clearly know what those of us in the comment section are here for. 😉 Thanks Jay!
Great video, Jay. I’ve come to appreciate a good inexpensive 3-way design as I’ve tried lots of speakers and I’m currently using a pair of almost-free Boston VR2 3-ways which are some of my favorites. Thanks for the video.
Dear Iyagi, I'm a collector with thousands of Japanese Mini-LP CDs...A Music Lover, not good at choosing equipment. No chance of listening to speakers and compare them in my hometown! I watched many reviews and now I've got Wharfedale Linton in my room mainly for music listening paired with Denon Amp. And I love Wharfedale Linton! Your review of KLH Kendall really helped. I would like to get speakers for Home Theatre and music listening for main hall. I'm considering Wharfedale EVO 4.4 for mains, Wharfedale EVO 4.2 for surrounds and Wharfedale EVO 4.CS. But I really don't know If I like AMT tweeters or how they sound. Please review Wharfedale EVO 4.4, and compare it with KLH Kendall and Focal Vestia No. 2. Your reviews really help...Thank You!
These are resurrected Energy RC-70s (I'm guessing Klipsch let David Kelly take those documents with him)...but they don't quite sound as good if you can believe it. Looks like some corners were cut either in the crossover or the driver design to maintain more profit. They sound great either way!
I've been wondering when this line of klh was going to get some detailed reviews, also I think they look great and thought they did a good job on them, 25 hz is pretty tough to achieve and believe though without larger drivers, I'd like to hear em.
These KLH speakers sound great value and my personal opinion on their looks is that they are very classy in a traditional way and aren't that different in looks to the brilliant Spendor d9 floorstanders and they are an £8000 speaker. Big thumbs up from me for their looks, but I would need to hear them in my room to judge them on sound obviously.
Awesome channel! Hey help! Uh do you think a vintage solid state receiver 50w per channel is fine? Sensitivity is so high on these I figure it’d be plenty...
Fantastic review! I love the way you give the affordable gear a real chance against the high end gear! Quick question...do the Kedalls come with grills?
Actually some of the best grills I’ve ever seen on a system. Very sturdy, and type magnets snap crisply in place. But make no mistake the drivers perform at their best with the grills off. But for protecting against little rascals running around they are great!
I had these, I paid $1,300 before the inflation price hike. Even at $1,500, they are good speakers. But I upgraded to Revel F226Be, and no, it could not come anywhere close with the Revel, in fact, oceans apart. But if you're on a tight budget, I would recommend these KLH Kendall. Excellent value.
Not sure about how they could be “Oceans” when the Revel only gooses down to 46hz and the Kendall’s, have been measured to reach its 25hz claim. I’m sure their Berylium Tweeter, like Focals is the star of the show and makes a difference…. But at more than twice the price, they should sound a bit better.
Hi. I really like your informative and no nonsense reviews. Would the Kendall's sound good with the Vincent Audio SV-237mk2 which you reviewed so favorably? And I wonder if or when you'll get a chance to review the Vincent Audio SV-228? Thank you, Dan
I want to try (and hopefully buy) KLH speakers, but it is near impossible to get them in most places in the EU due to irregular deliveries and batches being too small.
Jay, That was one of your best vids. Reminded me why I can overlook some tendencies. The comparisons of multiple aspects are really your Forte. Now my real question. Totem Tribe Floorstander vs Amator Electa III ?
Greetings from Greece... Very enjoyable review, great video. I would like your opinion which will be better between those KLH floorstanding speakers and the triple price of KLH (about) , Elac Vela FS 407 that you have already reviewed the (not only better for the money...) .Additionally i should mentioned that I`ve already auditioned the real big boy , Focal Aria 948 and they are "more" crystal clear for my taste and i would dare to say they getting easily fatiguing in a short time of listening and the bass seemed big but bloomy to me and no so deep and tight. My gear is the Elac Alchemy combo (DDP2 and DPA2) which you have been reviewed also. Thank you very much in advance. I wish you the best!
Please do a video on where these speakers are made. I suspect the majority are made in China, in the same factory, using the same wood, parts and only use speakers specific to the label on the cabinet. I have both small Klipsch and Polk speakers and if there wasn't a name attached, I'd swear they are exactly the same. I then looked at big name brand speakers and noted the same construction and parts used on them.
Hi Jay, great review. I just bought the little brother of the Kendall. It is called Concord. Only has one woofer. Would this give similar sound but just less bass? Thanks for all the great reviews
This look just like the older energy RC-70. You may remember the energy Veritas speakers, the RC are the little bother. Do you have anyone that can lend you a set of the RC-70? They might be worth testing. Also if you think the RC-70 would benefit from a crossover upgrade
Nice job. I like the exposed dome, old school. You would think it would work best if they have plenty of side wall space. Extreme contrast to modern wave guides. These seem like they’re unbeatable for the price and the right room. I have the Dodge 10. I have had no issues. I only keep it on while I’m using it. It puts out so much heat I can’t use it in summer. I basically have only used it class A low feedback. Briefly tried AB but not quite as impressive. Only used it with Canton Vento 7 and Heco Revolution 3. Never wanting for more power. It’s a great value as well. For my room floorstanders are more to my liking.
Hi Jay! Have you tried these Kendall's with your Decware ZMA tube amp? Just curious about that combo. Thanks again for the in-depth reviews and comparisons.
I am using atc scm11 V2 and I love its sound a lot. I am very tempted to buy this one after I saw your review. Could you tell me the differences between these two?
Thanks Jay, I asked on your Polk R700 thread about how they compare to the Moabs. It is clear from this KLH review that the Kendalls are superior to the Polks so I have another question. Firstly I am guessing these speakers will not match the Moabs, but how do they compare to the KLH Model 5s? I ask because I found the Model 5s too bright due to their metal dome tweeters. Are the Kendalls less fatiguing than the Model 5s? Also, if you are familiar with them, how do the Kendalls compare to the SVS Prime Pinnacles or the Triangle Genese Lyrrs? My particular requirement is 3D imaging and soundstaging, with great detail and some warmth in the midrange. Thanks in advance for your help👍🏻
Jay spoke specifically about the Model 5 in comparison! Did you miss that part? These speakers as one reviewer wrote, reveal the flaws of your electronics. This tweeter which is the same as the M5 has been heralded for just the opposite…not bright!! But very neutral and uncolored. So whatever you drove or auditioned the M5 with could be the culprit. And please not e that theses speakers do continue to sound better over the break-in period!
Good video Jay. How does the midrange compare from these and the css 1tdx? Im really keen to hear your thoights on the css1tdx vs dynaudio special fourty. Which do you think is better?!! :)
Hello Jay, Thanks for your excellent reviews, as you review a lot of floorstanding speakers which I always prefer over bookshelfs, I think there is a speaker that your radar missed, the wharfedale evo 4.4, I think if you'l review it you will be very surprised, Ronen
Yep... Exactly right my friend... Personally, I think 'hi-end' speakers are a *COMPLETE* rip off these days. I'm not saying they do not sound good, but the prices are just plain stupid. And yes you can go into the R&D Yada, Yada, Yada... I don't F'n buy it! (in more ways than one 😊) You are on THE right track with towers or line arrays. My two tall open baffle 13 driver a side dipole line arrays are an excellent example. The cost to construct them is ridiculously low and I promise that they will in most areas blow away speakers many, MANY times their cost.
Nice speakers I wish I had the room for floor speakers , how far away do you sit , I can get 7ft ,with 20 inch behind my kef r3 and a couple of foot behind my seating position ,
Nice video, as always, Jay. My question follows at the end, because I am puzzled about bass, if you wouldn't mind. I think the fact that you just did the Polk video was beneficial for a fresh comparison (what to speak of the 5's). I was surprised to hear that the Candles outperformed the R700's wrt highs, iyo, and soundstage (and I believe even imaging?). That's crazy. I can't imagine the bass region was equal, given the Polk port design and woofer size. But there's something that's niggling at me. Maybe the key word is "effortlessness", but I just don't understand how any bookshelf could compare in the bass region to any tower of similar quality. I even wonder how a bookshelf woofer can match in the midrange as, in a 3-way tower the mid is only assigned to a very manageable 300-2,500 Hz range. I also watch Mike Powell's videos, and from his deep knowledge I'm inclined to think that one should not consider bookshelf speakers unless one has no choice, such as if there is absolutely no floor space for towers. (he's not a fan of bookshelves at all) It's a different view from convention (small room, small speakers, etc.), but I think power handling and effortlessness might have something to do with it. I would be interested in your thoughts on the matter in a future video, perhaps more like a lesson in acoustics. I need to understand how any bookshelf can match any tower (of compatible technology) when a single driver in a small box is up against three drivers in a large box.
Supplementing (big) bookshelf speakers (on stands) with a pair of subs is all it needs to rival most floorstanders with ease, surpassing them in certain areas, bookshelfs are known for. Even the bass response will be better, because you can place the subs in the room, where they work best. That normally will not be the place, where you place your floorstanders.
Could you get a review of Gilbert Y equipment, sorta love the his toe stumping sound and energy with his equipment, but see no reviews, and can you talk about the speakers xovers inside and cabinets internal structure, and would love to hear a rework on Tyler acoustic speakers , great reviews Jay!!
*Hey ! If you enjoyed the video, please click the like button on the video - doesn't cost you anything and it helps me make more videos like this !*
*Purchase links*
KLH Kendall: Crutchfield: shop-links.co/choeGjckdhC
Amazon: amzn.to/3tkcqYb
KLH Model 5: Crutchfield: shop-links.co/chmstJFmNLt
Amazon: amzn.to/39dIG8n
Polk R700: Crutchfield: shop-links.co/chkAGVuuZaM
*My Daily Components (All Tested And Proved To Work in Blind Tests)*
Fancy speaker stands I use: shop-links.co/choe8oQHC9w
Speaker stands I use (budget): amzn.to/3ssRhI3
Desktop Speaker Stands I Use: shop-links.co/chofc1R7mpT
acoustic panels I use: ua-acoustics.com/
acoustic curtain: amzn.to/31d1zAM
my fav hifi tweaks: (Isoacoustics devices) amzn.to/3j5FGvM
Speaker Isolation Feet I Use: shop-links.co/choffy3csSK
Turntable Isolation I Use: shop-links.co/chofgeNORJP
Component Isolation I Use: shop-links.co/chofhTC3wc7
*Related videos (All Components I mentioned in this video)*:
KLH Model 5: ruclips.net/video/ACCS3Q_TcZM/видео.html
Polk R700 Speaker review: ruclips.net/video/DH8JB1PZH48/видео.html
Buchardt s400 MKII: ruclips.net/video/PJRBMCA3FzI/видео.html
CSS Audio 1 TDX: ruclips.net/video/MbksuZdrdV8/видео.html
Sonus Faber electa amator III: ruclips.net/video/yYIAWzSh1pQ/видео.html
Totem Tribe Towers: ruclips.net/video/JOreZP9uNhA/видео.html
Doge10 Mk3 Tube Integrated Amplifier: ruclips.net/video/bLergX82w8w/видео.html
Denafrips Thallo and Hades: ruclips.net/video/F7m_nRvE17k/видео.html
Iotavx sa3+pa3: ruclips.net/video/o1kvxPOd9-s/видео.html
0:00 Intro
1:05 Breakdown
1:58 KLH Sound Review
9:12 KLH Kendall vs KLH Model 5
11:12 Limitations?
13:06 KLH Build Quality
17:25 Best Amplifiers For KLH
20:02 KLH Kendall VS Polk R700
20:50 KLH Kendall VS Tekton DI
22:37 KLH Kendall VS Buchardt S400 MKII
23:53 KLH Kendall VS CSS Audio 1TDX
which one you buy Elac UNI FI Reference or the KHL Kendall ?
9llb z z$$$$$$,
Can you do a comparison with KEF Q950?
BTW.... I love the refined and timeless look of these walnut monoliths which will complement any decor. _I appreciate you._
I love these speakers! In 2020 I heard some really nice reviews and they were going for 1299,so I went to World Wide Stereo just to check out, it wasn’t advertised but they were on sale for 974.00, Sold! Never ever seen them anywhere since on sale and now they’re going for 1500, I matched them with the Marantz pm7000n integrated amp around same time and got that for 999, now they’re going for 1299. I really lucked out and did well with my investment , it’s a very nice sounding set up , very happy !
are the kendall more in the bright or warm side or neutral in the middle?
@@joeydelmarsjr.646I would say more on the bright side... but not bad! Just adjust the treble
Purchased these in 2019, great set of speakers. It's about time someone like Jay got ahold of them and gave them the accolades they deserve.
Agree
First time viewer, impressive and thorough evaluation. 👍
It's interesting how 3 way designs for more affordebel speakers are back in business. When I began my hi-fi journey back in the late 80's, there were still a lot of 3 way designs like it was the case for most of the 70's and 80's. But during the 90's the 3 way designs almost disappeared all together and it was almost regarded as a no-no to own a 3 way design unless it was in the high end category. I think it's great they are back!
Am also a 3-way fan, just wish more of them were dome shaped mid-range drivers as that fills the room better, the concave design usually makes vocals sound cupped and recessed. ATC has shown the way on this since 1976, surprising so few others have followed aside from PMC, Proac, Wharfedale.
Not true really, but 2-way is way cheaper to manufacture. Good 10" is almost twice the price of 6", plus crossover and enclosure. I guess in 90s the design went into how to make simple spkrs with quality parts. Some of the first computer measurements system and CAD design showed up. Today technology, knowledge of how to measure and design are so much better than 30yrs ago, one could only dream about DSP crossovers, equalization, room correction so readily used today in studio monitors. Something what Klippel scanner does in one day would take a week or more back then.
@@connorduke4619 While that may be true for some systems, it’s the absolute opposite for the Kendall’s!! The midrange reproduction of the Kendall’s will have you listening to all of your vocal recording all over again!! I received a SACD Copy of the Carpenters greatest hits and Karen Carpenters voice is simply sublime!! Seal’s “Kiss from a Rose” is as accurate and rich as you’ll ever hear!! Dual smaller woofer design where one of the woofers does help process the lower end midrange is fairly new in relative terms, and the info you base your comment on is simply not applicable here!
Yes very true. My Dad was int he Army and home audio was huge. You could easily see a lot more variety in loud speaker design 1950-1990 than today. The market was not so polarized and was a lot more open minded with reguard to design. I think they where also much smarter and less brainwashed by marketing and mass consumerism because the idea that cost = quality was not as rigidly believed as it is today! That said design possabilities are the best they have been in a long time but prices adn buying power of the dollar are at their worst and the markup on a lot of gear not just speakers is crazy!
I like it when you moved from where you sat to show us the beautiful surface of the speakers.Interesting, bro.
The last 10 years, especially with the introduction of the Elac Debut series, there has been such an emphasis on "bang for buck" that we've ended up with a bunch of speakers in black ash vinyl wrap. But I'm realizing- there is nothing wrong with paying extra for great looking real wood cabinets. These Kendall's being a great example.
I told you Jay!! And keep in mind these speakers came out in 2019 and I snagged a pair for $1299.00 a pair!! It will be in interesting how many mainstream reviewers will now give a serious look at reviewing these, one could probably say...the single most underrated speaker system since they were introduced. And about that bass, Hans Wentzle from Soundstage wrote: "To its credit, the KLH did have output down to 25Hz, as I confirmed with test tones, but it was notably down in level. To my ears, the Kendalls’ output was flat and remarkably tight down to about 30Hz -- still highly commendable." I have written since I received my pair of Kendall's on several review/sites and it just seemed like without a "vintage" name like "Model 5", most reviewers just didn't believe KLH based on what they had produced yeas previously, could produce a "NEW" line of competitive speakers. But as I said to you before Jay, the Kendall was the bargain speaker in KLH's line. I have the Black Walnut, which for me is perfect in its non-reflective cabinet that disappears during listening even with the grills off, at night. Pair these up with what I have a, 100 Clean watts per channel Yamaha AS-801, and a Blusound Node2i, and you have a world class system for right around three grand!! And I agree with you, when driven right, these speakers can throw sound behind you!! And from a production standpoint Jay, (I am a producer) wear a lav mic for when you move around, the volume drops considerably. Great review man!!
Great review. Personally, I prefer the Polk R700. Especially if you’re not going to use a sub. For me, the Polk sound-staging is superior; the bass articulation is superior; and the midrange is more musical. I also compared the Polk R700 to Focal Aria 948, 926, and KHL Model 5 and preferred the Polk.
I’m considering the Polk as well. But I also have a few others on my radar - Kef Q series, Focal Chora, Wharfedale EVO.
I think they are unbelievable for the money.
If you’ve actually auditioned both then I respect your comment, but I do own the Kendall’s, and have auditioned the Polk R700, and the Kendall’s are much more accurate and less colored than the Polks. But don’t get me wrong the Polk R700, is a very impressive loudspeaker system. But the shear size\width do affect the soundstage vs. the Kendall’s. I have the Black Walnut finish which, with the grills off, looks very professional. These are no frills, high performance loudspeakers and if you haven’t actually heard them, which for most is impossible unless you own them because they are exclusively distributed by World Wide, and are not offered in but a few retail stores, I strongly suggest you do. The only system that bested the Kendall’s in my auditions were the Focal Cantù. But for 10,000…..they should.
@@Csnumber1 what amp would you recommend pairing the kendalls and are they good for every genre?
@@Csnumber1 Do the Kendalls have better Imaging than the R700 and are they "3D Holographic" like the Klipsch RP8000 ? I'am deciding between the Kendalls, Polk R700 and Klipsch RP8000. Usecase would be 50% Movies 50% Music.
My buddy has a pair of these and loves them. They sound great to me, too! Thanks for reviewing.
Always nice to see more "good "affordable 3 way speakers. That designer at KLH seems to know what he was doing. I was looking at these before, but too tall for my room (blocked the TV from the sides lol) so went with model 5s.
what price were they
I got the model 5's a month ago and I love them. The $2500 price hurts though.
@@hoobsgroove I got them when they first came out, they were still $2000. But these were still like $500 less.
A pair of KLH Kendall is now priced (2 years later) at $2,000 pair. The listed frequency response is 36 Hz to 38,000 KHz. With a center channel Kendall speaker being $1,000, and a pair of Kendall Bookshelf or surround speakers for $1,000 a pair. There isn't a Kendall subwoofer to match. Only the KLH Stratton subwoofers which are pretty decently priced with a 12 inch sub going for around $600 with 200 watts RMS (frequency response 25 Hz - 180 Hz).
I'm not sure why but I really like the breakdown section of the video from 1:24 onward
New Sub! Just bought the Kendalls.
I had two Klipsch RP-8000F II's in my cart then I watched this video... Now I can't decide
Me too.
Love your videos. Here in Argentina be an audiophile is not a easy hobbie. I hace a pair of Dali Oberon 7. Wish You The Best!
Superb, superb review from a great reviewer, is all I can say.
I have to point out that Jay has done a phenomenal job over the last few months or more on his reviews. I'll admit he was a little "Hollywood" for me before but he's calmed his demeanor and it seems like he's more thoughtful on his analysis. Much more pleasing to listen to. Not that I didn't like his channel before but now I feel like he's really polished his presence. Keep it up Jay!
Now if he can tighten up his audio when he moves around, that “polish” will be complete!! I’m in production and as all of us are, very critical of audio.
These are basicly a modern remake of the classic KLH 283A like mine from around 1995. The KLH 283A has 2 8" subwoofers, a 5 1/4 inch mid range and a tweeter. 250W RMS rear single ported. In 1995 they where $229 each but if you hagled at the audio store you could get them for less. I think they are rated 35hz to 25khz. I still have mine and they are still working great. IIRC properly they are somewhere in the 90db-95db 1w/1m area. All of this is from memory so I might not be on the money but am close. People put KLH down all the time but I think it is just that most youngsters today are fairly ignorant of what came before from affordably hifi to super expensive audiophile from the 1950's through 1990's. I am driving mine with a Carver Amp.
For a 25hz response, these bad boys would need two 10's per tower! Matter of fact, KLH should SERIOUSLY consider a "next step up" model doing just that, maybe using an acoustic suspension design and keep the price around 2k. Would be a KLH home run! I like the look of these btw, never anything wrong with the "no frills" look.
Hans Wentzle from Soundstage wrote: "To its credit, the KLH did have output down to 25Hz, as I confirmed with test tones, but it was notably down in level. To my ears, the Kendalls’ output was flat and remarkably tight down to about 30Hz -- still highly commendable."
They could add a side firing woofer, perhaps even the same driver off the fives.
Hello Jay: I just ordered a pair of these KLH Kendall speakers in the American Walnut finish. They will be partnered with a pair of REL T/5x subwoofers. My use will be in a 2-channel audio system. I will re-comment after a generous break-in and testing/evaluation period. The expected arrival date is about 10 days out.
How did your set up sound??
@@badhabitz69 So much for his promise to "re-comment". A year later and still nothing. I guess a year isn't a generous enough break-in period :)
In my opinion, you have found an excelent format for your videos. It took you some time (sorry for that 😆), but, now you are one of the most complete reviewers around here. Thanks for your job, man.
Back in the late 70's klh made speakers called research 10, they were amazing for the price and well ahead of their time!!!
Good review. You've been doing doing good lately.
That color match with your seat is epic 😅
I've had these for about three years. I was blown away by how good they sounded right away. With time I have discovered a single significant shortcoming: their maximum SPL is not super high. When cranked up to very high levels they produce a lot of bass distortion. I bought these specifically for low level listening and they really deliver when played at or below "reference levels." After a few years of daily use, I feel like the Kendall's are practically flawless for my low volume listening. At high levels I think they are bass-heavy. I also agree with Jay that the bass doesn't go as deep as the specs claim. There is plenty of bass volume, but not as low as I'd like. On the aesthetics, I feel like the minimalist look is great - like modern Scandinavian furniture rather than cheap looking. The bases do look kind of cheap though. In essence I do like the look a lot, but that's just personal preference.
I think this review is very dependable. It matches my own years-long experience with them to a T. Everything Jay says about the sound, the sound staging, room placement, etc., matches what I've found exactly.
I would have to disagree whole heartedly....What Jay did not mention in this video was the use of the included Port Plugs which are essential to setting them up. I use them on the bottom ports, with the speakers placed almost two feet from the wall. I deliver the signal through a Yamaha AS-801 rated at 100 high current amps and played at reference level deliver with ease. I suggest you experiment with your placement and use of the port plugs. Or look at your Amp pairing.
@@Csnumber1 are you implying that using the port plugs then gives you the bass that the specs claim?
As a side note, I used the A-S 801 integrated amp for almost a month and I am about to send it back to Crutchfield that thing is weak as hell for 100wpc... I don't get it!?! How are you getting that to produce a fulfilling sound? I paired with Jamo 809s towers (120 wpc). I thought it would be a good match but it was very underwhelming. So I am kinda surprised that the Yamaha amp can drive these speakers! LMK. Thanks
@@Csnumber1 I suppose you're right about Jay leaving off any info about the port plug options. Honestly I kind of wish they came with enough port plugs to completely seal them both because I found the sound very pleasing that way when I did it to just one.
I tried a number of amplification schemes including a little desktop class D amp (worked quite well), Emotiva A-300 (fine but not special), Adcom GFA-545 II (very nice), McIntosh MC7100 (very nice), and 2 AudioSource AMP 100s bridged into mono mode as my "poor man's monoblocks" (very nice). I ultimately use the McIntosh because that's the most durable, reliable equipment I have and it's what I have in place for my primary setup where I want to use these speakers.
I moved the KLH Kendalls all over the room and got much better sound, to my ear, by pulling them way out into the room, about 1/3 of the way into the room from the wall. That's not practical for me to maintain, but I typically use them about 18" from the wall behind them and 2 feet from the side walls in a room that's about 12'x15'. That sounds as close as possible to the best I can get without having them out in the middle of the room. I have the bottom ports plugged, but I really didn't find much difference in the sound when I plugged the top ports instead. I have them facing completely forward rather than toed for a wide but less than laser-precise sweet spot. I do occasionally point them at the listening position for some solitary focused listening time.
I find these to be pretty easy to drive. Almost every amp I tried with these with could push them way louder than my comfort level without any difficulty.
I find the bass to be the weakest aspect of this model. It's not weak bass volume. It's bass that does not go very very low and cannot play very very loud. It's a bass heavy tuning that breaks up at very high volumes. The bass sounded best on my "hillbilly HiFi" setup with two inexpensive AudioSource AMP 100 background music "restaurant audio" amps bridged into mono mode. But at very very high volumes the bass becomes so over emphasized that it not only overwhelms the mid and high, it also becomes unusably distorted, and that is borne out in measurements that I've seen published. They play plenty loud and quite powerfully and nicely in the bass. I wanted to use these without a subwoofer, and I do. They go loud and they go low, but they don't go very very loud or very very low. If you want shear volume on modern bass-heavy music, these will distort badly. It's not what I got them for, but I was still a little sad that these don't play nicely with Deadmau5 at very high volumes. I just have to remind myself that I chose to go with multiple, affordable, purpose-specific systems over one very expensive multi-tasker. These are really excellent for my intended purpose which is; high quality recordings, vinyl, Classical, Jazz, and low volume listening. I have another system for MP3s, streaming, Techno, Pop, background, video, and high volume listening.
@@AndyBHome So let me share a few tweaks that really made a big difference. On the speakers themselves I rigged the feet with some adjustable metal feet I found a Loews who’s thread pitch matched perfectly. And what I experienced with was, as well as toeing them in, was pitching them both up about a half inch, using my iPhones compass and bubble tool which made for a very accurate adjustment. Second, and incredibly so….I used very short runs of 12 gauge speaker cable, terminated with SILVER BANANA PLUGS. And what a freaking massive difference it made!! I would really suggest you do toe them in and pitch them up because the bass dispersion is so much better and because of the quite narrow cabinets, you won’t be losing anything in terms of sound staging. As far as playing loud, we’ll I’ve had no problems there with the Yamaha AS801, which one post here said it was underpowered, when all who have reviewed this amplifiers say just the complete opposite. I can only wonder if the switch in the back of his amp that everyone says not to touch was switched. :). Good luck and have fun!!
@@rainbowheart2728 Every review of this amp says the exact opposite!! Check that switch in the back and make sure it wasn’t changed. For its a bargain and plays as loud as I need it for my small to medium room.
What do you think of Monitor Audio Gold or Platinum series? You should make a review of some of their speakers.
I love deep visceral impacts
I really enjoyed your review of the Polk 700 speakers. I have owned Polk Audio speakers in the past and have enjoyed them. I currently own Vandersteen 2 Ce speakers. It is great to hear outstanding reviews about Polk speakers , as they are often looked down on by some Audiophiles.
There are great audio products that down cost a small fortune. Keep the reviews coming.
Damn Jay, The amount of effort and dissemination and presentation of information is impressive ! Thanks again !
Hi jay, do you know the klh kendalls now have a new model called the kendall mkii. it will be nice if you review them and do a comparison with the old model. thanks for all your great reviews
I sold KLH speakers for Luskins electronics in the 90s and they always looked great but didn't have that sparkle in the top range at all back then . It's good to see they fixed that. The new Three days grace album drop about a month ago now but I just noticed and it's a incredible album. It's like they taken steroids lyrically and musically for this album. It's crazy good. A album that feels like it's part of u !!
96 dB sensitivity with that freq resp will save you a lot of money on amps. Double the volume of a normal speaker if that is true. Reminds me a little of the Axiom M60 setup.
It is amazing how great performing speakers are coming in at lower price points.
Oooo, just from the thumbnail alone I’m in love with that speaker
Thank you for the great review.
These speaker look very good in your space
Jay is this KHL KENDALL better than Polk r700 ?????? I'm going to buy either ones ???
I believe jay said he likes the klh kandall better for all around better sound
Woah is right. Haven't heard the name KLH since the late 90s.
Jay, I trust your opinion about these and I'm very interested. Currently I have a Primare PRE35 and 2x Krell KAV2250 with an old set of B&W CM9 gen 1 (1000w @8ohm into each cm9)
How would there's KLH sound in comparison of the cm9 and where would you need to be you think in B&Ws series to compete with these for sound enjoyment...703....805? (I also have a svs SB13Ultra spare if that helps) I'm slowly starting my research for new speakers..can you help...I'm open to trying anything.
Thanks alot and I really appreciate the honesty in your your videos.
Nice to see that people can get into this hobby at a reasonable price! Is a review coming on the Apollo amp?
I really appreciate your evaluation, although, based on your comparison, I wish you would have spoke about the KLH I'm terms of value. The Tekton are literally double the price and the Bucharts cost over 1000.00 more. I would be interested in seeing what KHL would create building to that price point. That said, the Kendalls are already punching above their weight.
Wow, comparisons to five other high performing speakers you reviewed?! You clearly know what those of us in the comment section are here for. 😉 Thanks Jay!
Great video, Jay. I’ve come to appreciate a good inexpensive 3-way design as I’ve tried lots of speakers and I’m currently using a pair of almost-free Boston VR2 3-ways which are some of my favorites. Thanks for the video.
Hi Jay. Will you be doing a review of the new klh kendall 2b and compare what improvements have been made?
Dear Iyagi, I'm a collector with thousands of Japanese Mini-LP CDs...A Music Lover, not good at choosing equipment. No chance of listening to speakers and compare them in my hometown! I watched many reviews and now I've got Wharfedale Linton in my room mainly for music listening paired with Denon Amp. And I love Wharfedale Linton! Your review of KLH Kendall really helped. I would like to get speakers for Home Theatre and music listening for main hall. I'm considering Wharfedale EVO 4.4 for mains, Wharfedale EVO 4.2 for surrounds and Wharfedale EVO 4.CS. But I really don't know If I like AMT tweeters or how they sound. Please review Wharfedale EVO 4.4, and compare it with KLH Kendall and Focal Vestia No. 2. Your reviews really help...Thank You!
These are resurrected Energy RC-70s (I'm guessing Klipsch let David Kelly take those documents with him)...but they don't quite sound as good if you can believe it. Looks like some corners were cut either in the crossover or the driver design to maintain more profit. They sound great either way!
Greetings J,brilliant brilliant summary 👊🏾
Great reviews!!!
Work you out into Equipment matching and comparisons really help but the speakers performance into perspective.
I've been wondering when this line of klh was going to get some detailed reviews, also I think they look great and thought they did a good job on them, 25 hz is pretty tough to achieve and believe though without larger drivers, I'd like to hear em.
I like the look, reminds me of my energy connoisseur cc9’s
Hi Jay, thanks 🙏🏻 for the review, is the Soundstage bigger and more 3D than the model 5 ? Thanks
These KLH speakers sound great value and my personal opinion on their looks is that they are very classy in a traditional way and aren't that different in looks to the brilliant Spendor d9 floorstanders and they are an £8000 speaker. Big thumbs up from me for their looks, but I would need to hear them in my room to judge them on sound obviously.
please review that turntable in the background, thanks
Awesome channel! Hey help! Uh do you think a vintage solid state receiver 50w per channel is fine? Sensitivity is so high on these I figure it’d be plenty...
Fantastic review! I love the way you give the affordable gear a real chance against the high end gear! Quick question...do the Kedalls come with grills?
Custom honeycomb designed magnetic grille.
Actually some of the best grills I’ve ever seen on a system. Very sturdy, and type magnets snap crisply in place. But make no mistake the drivers perform at their best with the grills off. But for protecting against little rascals running around they are great!
Great videos Jay love this kind of flow of finding Giant Killers with this and the CSS. Do you have an updated tier list on your Patreon?
I had these, I paid $1,300 before the inflation price hike. Even at $1,500, they are good speakers. But I upgraded to Revel F226Be, and no, it could not come anywhere close with the Revel, in fact, oceans apart. But if you're on a tight budget, I would recommend these KLH Kendall. Excellent value.
Dfk- those revels better sound better at what 2.5 x the price!
Not sure about how they could be “Oceans” when the Revel only gooses down to 46hz and the Kendall’s, have been measured to reach its 25hz claim. I’m sure their Berylium Tweeter, like Focals is the star of the show and makes a difference…. But at more than twice the price, they should sound a bit better.
Hi. I really like your informative and no nonsense reviews. Would the Kendall's sound good with the Vincent Audio SV-237mk2 which you reviewed so favorably? And I wonder if or when you'll get a chance to review the Vincent Audio SV-228? Thank you, Dan
I want to try (and hopefully buy) KLH speakers, but it is near impossible to get them in most places in the EU due to irregular deliveries and batches being too small.
That sucks. Hopefully one day… these really deserve a listen haha
None of the Klh authorized sellers in EU have it in stock...
They cost 2000 euro.
At that price they face lots of quality speakers with big reputations to compete with.
Back in the days I remember KLH were sold in the van. Surprise me that they are now in hifi range.
Jay, That was one of your best vids. Reminded me why I can overlook some tendencies. The comparisons of multiple aspects are really your Forte. Now my real question. Totem Tribe Floorstander vs Amator Electa III ?
Greetings from Greece... Very enjoyable review, great video. I would like your opinion which will be better between those KLH floorstanding speakers and the triple price of KLH (about) , Elac Vela FS 407 that you have already reviewed the (not only better for the money...) .Additionally i should mentioned that I`ve already auditioned the real big boy , Focal Aria 948 and they are "more" crystal clear for my taste and i would dare to say they getting easily fatiguing in a short time of listening and the bass seemed big but bloomy to me and no so deep and tight. My gear is the Elac Alchemy combo (DDP2 and DPA2) which you have been reviewed also. Thank you very much in advance. I wish you the best!
Please do a video on where these speakers are made. I suspect the majority are made in China, in the same factory, using the same wood, parts and only use speakers specific to the label on the cabinet. I have both small Klipsch and Polk speakers and if there wasn't a name attached, I'd swear they are exactly the same. I then looked at big name brand speakers and noted the same construction and parts used on them.
Treble drops as you toe them away from you? That impression is most probably caused by that weird FR the Kendall has. Talk about a W curve!
At that price you are close to LSA Signature 20 towers that should give them good competition.
Thanks for sharing, just wondering how efficient they are. Also are these a t-line design?
Hi Jay, great review. I just bought the little brother of the Kendall. It is called Concord. Only has one woofer. Would this give similar sound but just less bass? Thanks for all the great reviews
This look just like the older energy RC-70. You may remember the energy Veritas speakers, the RC are the little bother. Do you have anyone that can lend you a set of the RC-70? They might be worth testing. Also if you think the RC-70 would benefit from a crossover upgrade
Nice job. I like the exposed dome, old school. You would think it would work best if they have plenty of side wall space. Extreme contrast to modern wave guides. These seem like they’re unbeatable for the price and the right room. I have the Dodge 10. I have had no issues. I only keep it on while I’m using it. It puts out so much heat I can’t use it in summer. I basically have only used it class A low feedback. Briefly tried AB but not quite as impressive. Only used it with Canton Vento 7 and Heco Revolution 3. Never wanting for more power. It’s a great value as well. For my room floorstanders are more to my liking.
Hi Jay! Have you tried these Kendall's with your Decware ZMA tube amp? Just curious about that combo. Thanks again for the in-depth reviews and comparisons.
Another excellent video.
I think a lot of speakers sound good through $20 grand in equipment no one of us can afford ..how does it sound with a $500-1grand integrated
Denafrips Apollo amplifier... Nice. See a preamp and DAC there too... I have the KLH Model 5's along with the Denafrips gear, amazing match.
I am using atc scm11 V2 and I love its sound a lot. I am very tempted to buy this one after I saw your review. Could you tell me the differences between these two?
Thanks Jay, I asked on your Polk R700 thread about how they compare to the Moabs. It is clear from this KLH review that the Kendalls are superior to the Polks so I have another question. Firstly I am guessing these speakers will not match the Moabs, but how do they compare to the KLH Model 5s? I ask because I found the Model 5s too bright due to their metal dome tweeters. Are the Kendalls less fatiguing than the Model 5s?
Also, if you are familiar with them, how do the Kendalls compare to the SVS Prime Pinnacles or the Triangle Genese Lyrrs?
My particular requirement is 3D imaging and soundstaging, with great detail and some warmth in the midrange.
Thanks in advance for your help👍🏻
Jay spoke specifically about the Model 5 in comparison! Did you miss that part? These speakers as one reviewer wrote, reveal the flaws of your electronics. This tweeter which is the same as the M5 has been heralded for just the opposite…not bright!! But very neutral and uncolored. So whatever you drove or auditioned the M5 with could be the culprit. And please not e that theses speakers do continue to sound better over the break-in period!
Great review!
Great review... Energetic pace ! I guess you had your Starbucks this morning.
Thanks!
Good video Jay. How does the midrange compare from these and the css 1tdx?
Im really keen to hear your thoights on the css1tdx vs dynaudio special fourty. Which do you think is better?!! :)
Hello,
Can I ask what Playlist you use when deciding your opinions on your videos & at what volume you are listening at?
Have a great day sir.
Hi, i like the level if detail in your reviews. Could you please share some info on the grey panelling on your front wall.
Hi, it’s a great review.I have a question which home theater speakers are suitable for marantz SR8015…waiting for your advice.Thanks
Would love Jay to test the Heco 700 or 1000.
Great review. I know they are totally different kind of speakers, but how would you compare this with maggies 1.7i or other models.
I think I read the guy that obtained the klh namewas a past employee of klipsch.
Hi Jay, Great review. But I'd like to know the brand of hifi bench the Valve amp is sitting on?
I like the looks
Hello Jay,
Thanks for your excellent reviews, as you review a lot of floorstanding speakers which I always prefer over bookshelfs, I think there is a speaker that your radar missed, the wharfedale evo 4.4, I think if you'l review it you will be very surprised,
Ronen
Yep... Exactly right my friend... Personally, I think 'hi-end' speakers are a *COMPLETE* rip off these days. I'm not saying they do not sound good, but the prices are just plain stupid. And yes you can go into the R&D Yada, Yada, Yada... I don't F'n buy it! (in more ways than one 😊) You are on THE right track with towers or line arrays. My two tall open baffle 13 driver a side dipole line arrays are an excellent example. The cost to construct them is ridiculously low and I promise that they will in most areas blow away speakers many, MANY times their cost.
Nice speakers I wish I had the room for floor speakers , how far away do you sit , I can get 7ft ,with 20 inch behind my kef r3 and a couple of foot behind my seating position ,
Nice video, as always, Jay. My question follows at the end, because I am puzzled about bass, if you wouldn't mind. I think the fact that you just did the Polk video was beneficial for a fresh comparison (what to speak of the 5's). I was surprised to hear that the Candles outperformed the R700's wrt highs, iyo, and soundstage (and I believe even imaging?). That's crazy. I can't imagine the bass region was equal, given the Polk port design and woofer size. But there's something that's niggling at me.
Maybe the key word is "effortlessness", but I just don't understand how any bookshelf could compare in the bass region to any tower of similar quality. I even wonder how a bookshelf woofer can match in the midrange as, in a 3-way tower the mid is only assigned to a very manageable 300-2,500 Hz range. I also watch Mike Powell's videos, and from his deep knowledge I'm inclined to think that one should not consider bookshelf speakers unless one has no choice, such as if there is absolutely no floor space for towers. (he's not a fan of bookshelves at all) It's a different view from convention (small room, small speakers, etc.), but I think power handling and effortlessness might have something to do with it.
I would be interested in your thoughts on the matter in a future video, perhaps more like a lesson in acoustics. I need to understand how any bookshelf can match any tower (of compatible technology) when a single driver in a small box is up against three drivers in a large box.
Supplementing (big) bookshelf speakers (on stands) with a pair of subs is all it needs to rival most floorstanders with ease, surpassing them in certain areas, bookshelfs are known for. Even the bass response will be better, because you can place the subs in the room, where they work best. That normally will not be the place, where you place your floorstanders.
You should try them with speaker lifters. I'm sure the background will become darker.
Have you done a video about those quadratic diffusers on your front wall? Really interested in that.
You need to try the line mag with a doge 7 dac my friend. Put those nos brimars you have in it and you will see how good it sounds.
Seems like the Apollo is going to stay semi-permanently, interested in the review of it as I suspect it may be the best value amp under $5K.
These look very similar to the energy RC70s.
Could you get a review of Gilbert Y equipment, sorta love the his toe stumping sound and energy with his equipment, but see no reviews, and can you talk about the speakers xovers inside and cabinets internal structure, and would love to hear a rework on Tyler acoustic speakers , great reviews Jay!!
Klh has some nice offerings