★ *QOTD: What is YOUR forever speaker?* ★ *QUESTIONS? ADDITIONAL INFO IN THE DESCRIPTION⬆︎* ★ *COMMENT RULES: Please be respectful. No outside links, URLs, email addresses, etc. Violations are automatically deleted.*
the concept 500 paired with a cambridge evo 150..got them for my dad's 60th birthday as a gift for him and he and mom love listening to them everyday. For me personally it the heresy mark IV paired to uniti atom and 12" sub from taga harmony.
Most impressing speakers I have heard were a pair of Quadral Titan Mk I. I personally own a Pair of fully refurbed Quadral Amun Mk IV, which I still enjoy very much.
Being an audiophile with limited means a few year ago bought a pair of Focal bookshelves entry level speakers model Chorus 706 the predecessor of Chora line up. Price 375 Euros here in Italy. Made in France. solid and heavy like a rock, weight a reassuring 8.3 kg each and bear the same sonic characteristics of his far more expensive sibling. Kudos to Focal for manufacturing all his line up in France a rare treat now days.
You could probably listen to the Aria as well, loved their airy wide soundstage and their live sound feel with a slight warmth to it and their silky smooth highs. And those are not out of reach for normal people as well for 600 a pair.
I bought the white Chorus 706 for 279 in France, combined with a Denon PMA-520AE, my gaming PC build in "HiFi" ESS Sabre DAC, properly set-up with a decent room acoustique. The sound is really good ! Of course, you can always have more, but you need the money. The last trick : for the same song, there is different recording/mix/master, some are really good some are really bad, with streaming services it's easy to quickly look at the different versions available and choose the best one :)
Audiophile describing his girlfriend: "She's a self powered rear ported floor stander, slightly on the warm side of neutral, with a nice voice, and a firm bottom end."
One of the best 'exchange' in audiophile history! Kristy's take and the ensuing conversation is what the internet is all about, simply sharing our diverging views on what is important to us in respect to music listening. I live for 10 years now with a tweaked version of Energy C-200B. On a budget, these speakers let you concentrate on the performance instead of themselves. You don't need a subwoofer with them!
Music is so emotional. Always loved music but when I became a budget audiophile and record collector about 3 years ago, I developed a deeper appreciation for music. Listening on a good system felt very visceral.
When you reviewed the La Scala, you said "they have a real sense of soul" and "this speaker makes me feel something". That statement really connected with me, because I did not "get emotional" with my Martin Logan Motion 40's. So I went on a search for my forever speaker, that had a sense of soul and made me feel something. I purchased a pair of Paradigm Persona 3F as our forever speakers. I LOVE THEM! I have a connection with the 3F that I never had with any other loud speaker. I still need to upgrade my Denon receiver, but right now I hear details in old songs that I never heard before. Old music sounds new now. Thank you for helping me define the feeling that I was looking for in my speakers.
Depends on your budget, I own then Kanta 2, to me they are worth the money only because it's the last pair of speakers I will ever need! They are the most amazing sounding speakers!
You know a channel is truly great when you watch every review start to finish for a product/products you would never buy. Keep up the great work. I'll stick with my SVS Prime Pinnacles. I might have to pick up a Sony A90J at some point though. Cheers !
I absolutely ADORED! your take on The Diablo! They are definitely NOT Fxcking Random Appliances. You referred to them as precision instruments and you are correct! I imagine Utopia’s machine tolerances are so extremely tight, that you got that electrifying LaScala immediacy! That sent you into a tailspin. I simply LOVE when high-end amplifier circuitry design meets, and makes uber-expensive voice coils produce that eerie ‘Silent Hill’ magic that nearly slams you to the dxmn floor! It’s what’s known as : “Set, And Forget Engineering “ I just truly wish I could crack that mega-million$ code to attain it! And as I digress, thank you, thank you for that wonderful message. -scott
You make my day guys everyday ... looking at my chora at the time you Andrew said 'what would it take .. 10 grand !!! ' so true ... I love my Chora 816. They sound very good ! they need a sub to cover the lack of lowend frenquency. The speed and precision. i love those fast precise drums. they come alive and have so much weight. By the way i'm French... Oh and i'm not giving up my Subwoofer reference (hint it's US). I love the new text overlay. Not sure if everyone feels the same but i feel more like a audiolover than audiophile, thanks to you guys. Merci !!!
I really like Focal’s tweeters. They sound clean, clear and sonorous without being harsh and sibilant. Not too recessed and not too pronounced. I also like their warm, smooth and natural midrange particularly those drivers made from flax. The bass of my Focal Aria Evo 2 is just right. Not too boomy and distracting. It’s just tonally accurate and cohesive.
Don’t know the name of my cousins stepdads system but it was definitely the best speakers I have ever heard. He spent 250k on them and drives them with a bank of Audio Research Tube amps. His house was designed for the stereo. The speakers had 3 ft of concrete under them and he had several 30 amp outlets for his amps. Room was specially designed and the speaker designer spend a week tuning them with a spectral analyzer
Thank you Andrew for this review. I've always loved the Focal sound and agree they can be a bit unforgiving when it comes to faults in a recording. The flip side of that is with a good to great recording.....Magic. I own a pair of Aria 906s that I love, and have always wondering what you got in their higher end offering. With that said there is no way I will ever own a pair. Even if I convinced myself they were perfect for me, my wife would end my life in short order. Regarding my forever speaker, at 59 years old I've found my preferences are constantly changing. It might be my ears just getting older but I'm convinced there are a long list of preferred speakers in the years to come. Thanks again for the review.
I own a pair Evo Diablos, I own the Sopra 3,and 2. I own Sonus Faber's and more. Anyways. I am in heaven with these speakers. They actually outweigh many many Big floor standers in terms of soundstage and performance ,dynamics. Running it with Sopra Subwoofer. Very few Speakers match these even at $30 000 . Is a JEWEL and a Keeper for me!
Kudos to those people who will buy a speaker like this. They are supporting and subsidizing the rest of us. For most of us mere mortals, the point of diminishing return level, which gives you about 80 to 85 percent of the best available, will have to do.
@@KristiWright an older pair of Focal Electra 926's (bought used). not to be confused with the newer Aria 926. Mine are pre beryllinium, but still what I would describe as highly analytical while others might describe as bright.
After many years and many different speakers I finally have my forever speaker. Focal Sopra 1s driven by a Primaluna Dialogue Premium integrated amp. The combination provides everything my 76 year old ears enjoy. Thanks for a terrific review and I look forward to many more.
With very expensive gear such as Focal (or Wilson, Magico, etc.) loudspeakers the used/demo market can be your very good friend. It has certainly saved me ton of $ over the decades. As a car salesman once said when selling me a certified used sports car, "Let someone else take the ten grand hit driving the new car off of the lot."
Yup, especially if you live near a big city that hosts shows like Axpona, Rocky Mountain Audio Fest or know a high a volume dealer. They usually sell them and electronics as B Stock with Warranty. Some owner's even buy speakers that are too big for their rooms and then trade them in. Same goes for equipment. Definitely some great deals out there
I have owned a lot of speakers all the way upto £10,000. I was Constantly trying to achieve the best sound reproduction but found there was always a compromise no matter what I spent. My current speakers are a wharfedale Evo 4.4 which cost me just over £1k. They are not perfect but they do 95% of what I want from a speaker and Im content. They engage me emotionally into the music and are extremely honest sounding. Nothing added or taken away. I wont be changing my speakers for some time.
An early 80s pair of JBL-L100s are my speakers to keep. I got really lucky and purchased them 2 years ago, in really great quality. Your video showing the work that Just Audio did on your Pioneer integrated tuner really connected with me. My dad gifted me his Pioneer SX950 when I picked up the JBLs. I might even send the SX950 to Just Audio for them to do a really good once over on it. Great work, Christy & Andrew. As always.
No matter how you want to slice it, they are just gorgeous, aren't they? I am just surprised you didn't mention the B&W 805 D4 which by right should be the Diablo Utopia EVO's most natural and direct competitor with both being on the brighter end of the sound spectrum. I am just surprised Kristi didn't like the look of it, if where you film is actually your home, then I consider the decor as pretty contemporary and modern which to me goes perfectly well with the Focals.
I myself have always been a Focal lover and presently have a set of Chorus 706's in my music system. My forever speaker would have to be something from the Paradigm collection honestly. My first venture into low end audiophile were a set of Paradigm Monitor 5 SE MKII's. The sound of those speakers in the day were pristine to my ear. Use a set of Monitor bookshelf's with a Yamaha amp on my computer. Great review and congrats on the 200k subs. Well deserved.
For 15 years, it has been the Klipsch RF-5. Often overlooked when they were in production, they were made in Hope AK. A two way to we’re with dual 8” woofers and1” titanium tweeter in an 8” horn and recently upgraded crossovers. I added a pair of Magnepan LRS speakers to my list of gear, just to have som3thing completely different. Both leave me tapping my foot while enjoying a very diverse collection of music. I still prefer old school media as opposed to streaming and have no plans to change…… …. at this time. But one thing that is constant in life is change 😉
My "Forever Loudspeaker" is my pair of Tannoy Arden MK II. Got them from my Step-Dad and repaired them with my father. It also was my entrance to the audiophile world.
Andrew I totally agree with your review.You captured the Spirit of Focal. I've also heard Magico S3's, but The Kanta No 2, Sopra No 3's, and Sopra Center I have are on another level of amazing. For rock one of my favorite go to albums is Van Halen-The Collection. Poison- Every Rose Has It's Thorn, Life Goes on, Alice in Chains Unplugged, Nirvana Unplugged, Black Pumas, Shakey Graves-Roll The Bones, Drums in Rush or Some of Phil Collins work are amazing. Freya Riding's - Live at Pancreas Old Church or self titled album are fantastic. A huge gem is Prince- When the Lights Go Down and Purple Rain, and so much more. Some 80's pop recordings surprisingly have great detail as well. The wonderful features about Focals with Beryllium tweeters and either the Flax or W sandwich drivers is the cohesiveness of both to deliver simultaneous fast accurate tight bass and highs that decay naturally while playing the next notes simultaneously with out missing the details in the previous passage. One can hear and feel the body and weight of acoustic and or any instruments and vocals with no loss of detail. Definitely an immersive and addicting expierencince. As for lower quality recordings or favorites, yes it will make you search for better recordings, but I still listen when in the kitchen or other areas of our home, which has in my case made me ask the question of..." Am I listening to the music or equipment?" Either way it's great. My tastes have broadened so much and it's fun. I also agree that you barely need to toe these in. Both my Kantas and Sopras are toed in maybe 5-10 degrees. As for the look. My wife and I love them. The only other speakers in my opinion that are gorgeous to look at and not listen to are the B&W 800D series. I walk in and see how the bafels angle inward inviting you to listen. The finishes are also top notch. One saftey factor I really like about Focal, is how they protect the Berylliium tweeter.. Berylliium is highly toxic and carcinogenic if disturbed/broken. We have a 4 yr old son and Focal uses a non removable metal grille that doesn't impair the highs. I must also add that one can find these on the used market from private party, factory B stock, or from Authorized dealers with minor blemishes at very reasonable prices.
@@mesontoHa Ha, nahh. Tx though. I'm just a passionate fan of RUclips reviewers like Andrew and manufacturers that understand how to convey or design Audio and Video gear. Mostly I'm an Audiophile and Hometheater enthusiast that likes to have fun with music I grew up with and discover new artists who pour their soul into getting their art and work out there. I always wanted to be good at playing an instrument, but that wasn't in the cards for me. But I'm blessed to be able to bring that expierencince home. However, there's nothing like a great live performance or to have awesome musical talent. 😀
Focal stuff is crazy expensive but I watched a long video touring the factory and it became pretty apparent why. Amazing materials and craftsmanship, I'd love to hear some of their upper level stuff one of these days.
Love this review! Totally agree with Kristi. Don't know if I'd ever want a pair of Lamborghinis in my listening room. Feel like my forever speakers are ADS 810's. They're so nostalgic, warm, and friendly, with just enough low end to satisfy my music tastes. Wonderful video!
I watched your video for the review of the Diablo because I have been toying with the idea of changing my speakers. You put forth the notion of an emotional connection which is something I had never thought of before. You got that connection but Christie didn't so we know it is deeply personal. Your video convinced me to start searching for a speaker that I connect with on a emotional level to take it to the next level. Maybe the Focals maybe something else but at least I know what I am looking for.
You had me all excited that this was going to be a review of the Utopia towers. I don't blame you for not wanting to lug around 150lb towers. But it would have been super cool to see if 30k loud speakers still need a subwoofer. Maybe you'll get to review the Kanta 3's at some point?
The Utopia towers and Kanta Towers don't need subs. Ofcourse you can add them in but the output volume will be very low. Also, they need lots of room to breathe. They produce a lot of bass and can easily become overwhelming in a smaller room.
That shot where the speaker grill is present and then transitions out was really neat, I consistently love what you guys do with your shots. Great review as well!
Andrew, your design taste is phenomenal. I like the Liechtenstein. The speakers? Well, get some KEF LS50's in white. They look just as good and probably sound close at a fraction of the price.
Excellent review that covers a speaker I will never be able to purchase but can appreciate what it offers. Also appreciate Kristi's assessment, she always adds a down to earth vision that compliments Andrew's detailed review.
I appreciate a nice Lamborghini as much as the next guy. I have a neighbor that drives one. It’s fun to hear it start up. He’s got an aftermarket titanium exhaust system that likely cost more than my little Audi TTS. I like the TTS because it’s quick and handles well and feels a bit exclusive without much of the price tag. No it doesn’t perform like the Lambo but it’s likely that I would never experience the extra performance that I’m missing. There are times when I wish I had bought a Tacoma. I probably will go that direction next time. I don’t know that I have a “forever” speaker. I don’t think I can really appreciate the difference in super expensive speakers. I could see a pair of La Scalas if I had the ideal space for it. But I don’t. I might eventually go for a pair of KLH Model 5s. I like the nostalgia factor. Certainly any of the Klipsch Heritage line. I’m easy. I prefer classic looks and I like my sound to be engaging more than accurate. I like things that just work. That probably should be my epitaph.
Fairly new subscriber and you may never read this but just thought I'd throw this general comment in having watched a few of your videos now. On your own it's interesting but it doesn't hold me. However, with Kristi and the discussion I feel like I'm getting a fuller picture and the dynamic of you being challenged (however slightly) lifts this from good to great. Good job both of you.
Would you consider comparing these to the Focal Sopra No 1? They can be purchased on the used market for about 1/3 the price and look to have mostly the same driver technology. Also they have a walnut cabinet 😮
I think I'd rather spend the $17k on a new car. Then also add a subwoofer. Yet another great review Andrew, and as always it was great hearing you and Kristy talking afterwards. She can always be relied on for a 'cut-though' evaluation. You guys work so well together, and from a viewer's perspective it's an added layer of involvement. Kudos to you both.
Still loving my pair of chorus 836's from 10 or 11 years ago. I've demoed Sopras, Kantas, and Electras, and just don't hear a big enough difference for what the cost differential is. If sopra 2's ever get down to $6k used, maybe.
It's 12:45am and I just got home from work and getting into bed. . This is when you drop new videos 😭😭 At least I have something to look forward to in the morning!
Seems I missed this review when it first came out. Great review Andrew. I've been fortunate enough to hear this speaker and I absolutely love them as well.
Ive listened to these with a mcintosh tube amp (forget the model) in an audio store. Its really amazing! After listening to it, i can say my cheap audio gear is trash. Lol
Hey Andrew & Kristi! To your question: my forever main speakers will be Klipsch Forte iv's. I haven't received them yep but I know there will be a sentimental attachment caused by the memory's made with my family. Dance party's with my daughter and music and movies with my wife and daughter. Plus I already have sentimental attachment growing up listening to Forte 1 with my dad. The only good memories I have with him. This video was helpful for me because I always wonder in the back of my mind if Focals are worth the extra money. For some people I'm sure they are but for me I have many reasons to stand by my Fortes for the long haul.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews My Anthem MRX 1140 is on backorder for who-knows-how-long and I told them to just hold the Forte's and ship them out together so it could be awhile plus I have to coordinate the delivery for when I am at my vacation house in AZ. where I will eventually retire. I will absolutely let you know what I think of them and maybe send you a picture of my setup. I appreciate both of you very much for your knowledge and continuous help through my journey!
Thank you so much. I was waiting for this. 😃And I have the same opinion as you when I was listening to Scala Utopia Evo comparing to the Aria line which I proudly own. I said the same thing, around 80% percent of performance you can easily get from Focal’s lower price range.
I've had the Diablo for about 6 years now and I have to say that they take a bit of running in. Enough of that though, it has been well documented elsewhere. I was set on a pair of Quad ESLs but they just wouldn't fit into my space, which was a shame as driving them with a Accuphase E450, they sounded just incredible. But deciding I needed something easier to live with, I found the Diablos. What attracted me to them was the wonderful detail and transparency in the mids. They were simply the closest to the Quads and looked almost as good (I have the single pillar stands with the large black foot, which looking at your set, have been superseded, as has the tweeter cover). Again, I power these with the Accuphase and they sound remarkable. Even my sister, who has no interest in hi-fi whatsoever, commented that they were clearly something special. At the front end, I'm using a Node 1, which is a nightmare in its handing of files but sounds ok. It's clearly the weak link in the system, but being over 60 I doubt I could upgrade to any benefit. I also have them almost hard against back walls. They don't seem to mind and I have tried other positions to no real benefit. The bass is better with no loss of highs or mids. The one area where they do fall down however, is in volume. You have to drive them quite hard to get the best from them. You won't realise how loud they are because distortion is many d/b away, but like all speakers, crank them up enough and they will eventually distort. Interestingly, I did this a few times and it freed up the bass. But for a 'bookshelf' speaker, they do need winding up to get the best. You can actually hear them getting better as you turn up the volume. But go too far and they start to drop off, and that's before distortion arrives. I love them though and would only swap for a bigger house and a pair of Quads.
I'm just amazed vintage speakers 60's,70's,80's are still being referenced or preferred in 2021. The HiFi forefathers really knew what they were doing!
Those are some sexy speakers! Unless I win the lottery, they will remain in the realm of a Ferrari. I’ll probably never experience it but can admire it from afar.
My forever speaker is the B&W Nautilus speakers, over 20 years old now predating diamond tweeters and went into a show room in nyc stating a had a 10k budget, 50k later I walked away with the nautilus. The speaker just spoke to me. More recently a few months ago I listened to the Forte IV’s fell in love with their “live” forward sound signature. Bought them instantly and for someone like myself who misses live concerts I absolutely love the Forte. In no way are they as audiophile or perfect sounding as the Nautilus but in recent time they really speak to me. I’d suggest trying a Harbeth speaker next.
You ask the question, “what would our forever Speakers be?” I would like some clarification on that question, am I single? married? Divorced? Or am I buying a pair of forever speakers while married with the intention of having those speakers cause a divorce? You see, what I would be buying under each circumstance as my forever speaker would be different...
Your interior and b-roll are close to flawless as usual 👌 Forever speaker? Probably my Beovox and Beolab Pentas, just love them to death. Design and sound in perfect harmony!
Hey guys, excellent review!! My forever speaker are right there in front of my eyes and have been for almost 24 years : JMLAB Opal 49 with it's matching center and satellite. JMLab is the name Focal sells in France. Ii'm confused about that when and were the two names are used, but my speakers have the JmLab name and the Focal logo. They are still in really good shape and used everyday with my gaming and streaming...
Fantastic review, helped me decide to finally just buy the them and I'm absolutely glad I did. They are just amazing. The look amazing and fit in well with my all black gyrodec and Mcintosh amp. I have heard things I've never heard before and can spend hours listening to them. Had Dynaudios before these so don't entirely agree you could listen to Dynaudio longer than the Focal. Outstanding bookshelf speakers. Keep up the great reviews 👍.
Thinking to upgrade to the focal diablo utopia from focal sopra no.1 on my naim 500 series ! hope i get a significant uplift in mids and high frequencies from the upgrade !!
I recently did an A/B comparison with the Scala Evo and Sopra 2. The Scala was impressive, so much so that I worked out a trade-in for my Sopras and will be taking delivery on the dealer’s Scala demo pair next weekend. Did hearing the Scala make me like my Sopra 2’s less? No. If I couldn’t make the jump, I’d remain happy with my Sopras.
I enjoyed the review. While I could afford these, the diminishing returns as the price escalates will stop me. I would love to hear them at a dealer, show, or someone's home, but they will never grace my home. For those who can and choose to indulge, enjoy!!!!
the answer is that it depends on the speakers...some do, some do not. in that price range, I would choose the MBL Corona Line, which has an amazing sound and to which I have listened. I also like the Avant Garde speakers better than the Focal. The Focals do also sound great.
I have the Diablo speakers paired with NAIM 272/250 and I do get the emotional feelings that you shared in the video. Recently I was fortunate to upgrade my dac to Playback Design Dream and totally took this speaker to another level! All I’m saying this even till now I still haven’t seen the limit to this speaker and looking forward bring more out of it in the future.
I don't know if I'll ever have a "forever" speaker. This isn't due to issues with speakers I've owned but to "the grass is always greener" voice that rattles around in my melon. It's the same way for me with custom bicycles, photo gear, and target guns. "Oh I own a couple Serotta's and a Kirk JKS... Hmm Carl Strong builds some really cool stuff. Geeeee my Browning 725 and Winchester 21 are GREAT! OH LOOK AT THAT PERAZZI MX8!" things like that. My favorite part of the review was Kristi's auto analogy. THAT hit the nail square on the head. One of the other issues that I have is that I live 10 minutes from the McIntosh factory and literally around the corner from a great shop so great gear is almost like the story of Tantalus... ;) Thanks for another great video!
I had Focal Arias before and despite they have some advantages their sound in general was not satisfactory. Maybe Utopias would be a better option for hardcore audiophile like me.
I like so much the way you guys describe the sound of every gear you guys review. It allows us to get a great picture of what to expect from that piece of equipment without even listening to it. Being in Colombia - South America makes it difficulto to get a chance to listen to every speaker, amp or source component from every brand, but from what I had the chance to listen to it, I would go for the sound of the Focal Aria 948s. I love the great tight bass, the detail (specially in the mids, where much of the engaging factor is at), and the wide stereo image those speakers project. You guys have done a wonderful work. Greetings from Colombia.
Once I saw the surprised/confused cyclops with a flavor saver wearing a headlamp I can't un-see the surprised/confused cyclops with a flavor saver wearing a headlamp.
Hi Andrew/Kristi Lovely review as always. As to my forever speaker: In the next year or so I will be buying the Turning Point model HR-1. It is a Hybrid radial design sold through the Decware website. Gorgeous, easy to live with, and works in a room where you can't have the speaks 3 feet+ out into the room. Can't wait!
Electra 906 right ? I do own one pair, I have to test them with other amps. I use them to check my mixes/recordings, that's quite good for the price you can get them, and a good addition comparing recordings/mixes with Beyerdynamics DT250. Though i'd be curious comparing with some Davis Acoustics speakers, I unfortunately don't know much about their older models, and i'm opened to know more about them. Though I did installed a 90's Carbon/Kevlar kit from this brand in my car, and holy hell, this is completely impressive.
Tbh I never really felt like I knew I wanted to keep a speaker before. I always tell myself “I’m gonna upgrade to this because I want this” down the road. But I purchased 2 big SVS pb3000’s a year ago-ish and I am still telling myself “I don’t need anything better” in the bass category. Now it’s about finding my syrup to go with the pancakes. (Speakers that fit all of my wants and needs) which is probably impossible but maybe one day
My (maybe) forever speaker: Wilson Audio SabrinaX. I bought my first pair of high-end speakers, B&W N804s, when I was 21, spending way more money than any kid should have on audio. I still have them, I still I enjoy them, but it’s time for a change. I’m 42 and fairly certain I’ll be getting SabrinaX speakers. Will I buy something else at 62? Hard to say, but I do know I won’t be speaker shopping again for a LONG time.
Because loudspeakers are extraordinarily room dependent, very expensive speakers can sound lousy while a pair of cheap ones can sound very good. The price of some loudspeakers today is becoming ridiculously high. The price of the Focals should include a pair of subwoofers. I bet my Rogers Studio 1 loudspeakers (made in England) sound better, and they only cost $1600 a pair
You need to get some of the Creative Sound Solutions bookshelf speakers in for review, like the P215 or the Criton 1TD-X. The P215 won awards for being one of the best bookshelf offerings under $10,000
Came for the Focal Utopia review, stayed for the B&W 606s2 burns. Seriously, I love Focal but I honestly thought the Sopra was good enough. It's most of the way to the Utopia and you can have a full range Sopra 2 floorstander for less money than these standmounters. It's a bit like saying how great value a 911 is by comparison with an Aventador but it you want a high performance sports car the 911 might be a bit more accessible while getting you most of what you want. Not sure if you've tested the Sopra 2s but they might be one of those products that's so good you have to spend a lot more to eclipse it.
We considered reviewing the Sopras but I think there weren't any available at the time of our request so we ultimately went with these. They look great and I don't doubt for a second that they rock. Thanks so much for watching!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews thank you & Kristi for making such great content. If you get the chance to try out the Sopra 2s then please do. You won't regret it. You will of course have to ride a tsunami of comments about how expensive they are, whether they're too bright, loving /loathing the styling and whether the channel will ever review an affordable speaker again etc 😁
@sdemosi I agree. The amazing part of the higher Focal lines starting with Sopras, is that it's hard to find their performance Peak because the more higher end gear you give them the more they perform. I have the No3's and found a great set-up. You can go mad trying to find better gear. Lol
@@LuxAudio389 I think you've nicely summed up my thinking. The higher end Focal are "destination speakers". It's not that the owner would never thinking of buying another speaker but unless you're going to spend hundreds of $k, you have something that is as good as anyone really needs and can grow with you for years. I also think the Sopra is beautiful design. They have a modernist architectural quality and a unique design language that I think works just a little better than the Utopia. Kristi is right to talk about design, despite what some commenters think. You have to live with these products. There's something special about an illuminated VU, the McIntosh blue glow, the Devialet remote, the Classe curve, and those pieces of great design that make you admire the inspiration & execution. They enhance the ownership experience. And I guess that's why I still want a pair of B&W nautilus some day. I know I can't justify them on any objective grounds but seeing them in a store in London got me into this hobby. Loudspeaker as organic sculpture is still a beautiful concept. They are basically fine art that happen to reproduce music wonderfully.
Kristis last point goes far. Its good to see how good the top end is. Its good to see how good is 100%. Then its good to know how close high end , which is affordable now, gets to that 100%. Diminishing returns
Maybe she's a classic gal. I still remember my grandpa's wood RCA console tv with a record player under a hinged cover to the left and a radio to the right. Classic stuff 😀😂
even i do. especially for price la scala looks much better TO ME [as i love symetry and straight lines & not curvy lines like focal has] than these focal or infact any focal speakers but their headphones looks epic af especially the new clear mg pro with that red ❤️
We need a review eventually of a ridiculous speaker or system from a HiFi enthusiast that goes to the extreme of extremes. Thank you for the video guys 😊 Seeing Andrew fanboy is good for the soul!
![Seungmin "그렇게, 천천히, 우리(As we are)" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/kAzmhLHePqU/mqdefault.jpg)
★ *QOTD: What is YOUR forever speaker?*
★ *QUESTIONS? ADDITIONAL INFO IN THE DESCRIPTION⬆︎*
★ *COMMENT RULES: Please be respectful. No outside links, URLs, email addresses, etc. Violations are automatically deleted.*
the concept 500 paired with a cambridge evo 150..got them for my dad's 60th birthday as a gift for him and he and mom love listening to them everyday.
For me personally it the heresy mark IV paired to uniti atom and 12" sub from taga harmony.
Most impressing speakers I have heard were a pair of Quadral Titan Mk I.
I personally own a Pair of fully refurbed Quadral Amun Mk IV, which I still enjoy very much.
I haven't found them yet
@@frank5029 I'm with you. I've heard several GREAT speakers, but I've not reached my end-game pair yet.
The Dutch & Dutch 8C. Adam Audio S3V and Genelec 8361 are up there as well.
Being an audiophile with limited means a few year ago bought a pair of Focal bookshelves entry level speakers model Chorus 706 the predecessor of Chora line up. Price 375 Euros here in Italy. Made in France. solid and heavy like a rock, weight a reassuring 8.3 kg each and bear the same sonic characteristics of his far more expensive sibling. Kudos to Focal for manufacturing all his line up in France a rare treat now days.
You could probably listen to the Aria as well, loved their airy wide soundstage and their live sound feel with a slight warmth to it and their silky smooth highs. And those are not out of reach for normal people as well for 600 a pair.
I bought the white Chorus 706 for 279 in France, combined with a Denon PMA-520AE, my gaming PC build in "HiFi" ESS Sabre DAC, properly set-up with a decent room acoustique. The sound is really good ! Of course, you can always have more, but you need the money.
The last trick : for the same song, there is different recording/mix/master, some are really good some are really bad, with streaming services it's easy to quickly look at the different versions available and choose the best one :)
@@dufonrafal That is a steal.
@@benjaminqilafku5714 yep, when I saw them at this price from a well known hardware store, I jumped on it !
These speakers look incredible! What are you guys talking about? They're not vintage looking true, but they're gorgeous.
Audiophile describing his girlfriend: "She's a self powered rear ported floor stander, slightly on the warm side of neutral, with a nice voice, and a firm bottom end."
Pronounced mids?
Hilarious!
@@slyfoxx8540 are we talking about the upper mid range?
@@dudemastermaster8944 spot on.
Huge soundstage width and depth
One of the best 'exchange' in audiophile history! Kristy's take and the ensuing conversation is what the internet is all about, simply sharing our diverging views on what is important to us in respect to music listening. I live for 10 years now with a tweaked version of Energy C-200B. On a budget, these speakers let you concentrate on the performance instead of themselves. You don't need a subwoofer with them!
Music is so emotional. Always loved music but when I became a budget audiophile and record collector about 3 years ago, I developed a deeper appreciation for music. Listening on a good system felt very visceral.
So worth the investment for the experience!!
When you reviewed the La Scala, you said "they have a real sense of soul" and "this speaker makes me feel something". That statement really connected with me, because I did not "get emotional" with my Martin Logan Motion 40's. So I went on a search for my forever speaker, that had a sense of soul and made me feel something. I purchased a pair of Paradigm Persona 3F as our forever speakers. I LOVE THEM! I have a connection with the 3F that I never had with any other loud speaker. I still need to upgrade my Denon receiver, but right now I hear details in old songs that I never heard before. Old music sounds new now. Thank you for helping me define the feeling that I was looking for in my speakers.
Depends on your budget, I own then Kanta 2, to me they are worth the money only because it's the last pair of speakers I will ever need!
They are the most amazing sounding speakers!
Humble Mike Z-HT in the House!! Ambassador of Focal and RUclipsr. How's it going man? ✌️🍻
I was really expecting Kristi to love these a little more. Being that Focal’s top end is so genuinely alive!!
You know a channel is truly great when you watch every review start to finish for a product/products you would never buy. Keep up the great work. I'll stick with my SVS Prime Pinnacles. I might have to pick up a Sony A90J at some point though. Cheers !
I absolutely ADORED! your take on The Diablo!
They are definitely NOT Fxcking Random Appliances. You referred to them as precision instruments and you are correct! I imagine Utopia’s machine tolerances are so extremely tight, that you got that electrifying LaScala immediacy! That sent you into a tailspin. I simply LOVE when high-end amplifier circuitry design meets, and makes uber-expensive voice coils produce that eerie ‘Silent Hill’ magic that nearly slams you to the dxmn floor! It’s what’s known as : “Set, And Forget Engineering “
I just truly wish I could crack that mega-million$ code to attain it!
And as I digress,
thank you, thank you for that wonderful message.
-scott
"I'm OK saying goodbye to them"
Incredible funny and witty review, loved it!
You make my day guys everyday ... looking at my chora at the time you Andrew said 'what would it take .. 10 grand !!! ' so true ... I love my Chora 816. They sound very good ! they need a sub to cover the lack of lowend frenquency. The speed and precision. i love those fast precise drums. they come alive and have so much weight.
By the way i'm French... Oh and i'm not giving up my Subwoofer reference (hint it's US).
I love the new text overlay. Not sure if everyone feels the same but i feel more like a audiolover than audiophile, thanks to you guys.
Merci !!!
I really like Focal’s tweeters. They sound clean, clear and sonorous without being harsh and sibilant. Not too recessed and not too pronounced. I also like their warm, smooth and natural midrange particularly those drivers made from flax. The bass of my Focal Aria Evo 2 is just right. Not too boomy and distracting. It’s just tonally accurate and cohesive.
The look and smile on your face when your wife speaks is priceless.Great review keep it coming you the best on the tube!!
Don’t know the name of my cousins stepdads system but it was definitely the best speakers I have ever heard. He spent 250k on them and drives them with a bank of Audio Research Tube amps. His house was designed for the stereo. The speakers had 3 ft of concrete under them and he had several 30 amp outlets for his amps. Room was specially designed and the speaker designer spend a week tuning them with a spectral analyzer
I hope you stop by often to "vaccum or clean"😉. Perhaps one of the Wilson Chronosonic models or Grand Utopias.
Thank you Andrew for this review. I've always loved the Focal sound and agree they can be a bit unforgiving when it comes to faults in a recording. The flip side of that is with a good to great recording.....Magic. I own a pair of Aria 906s that I love, and have always wondering what you got in their higher end offering. With that said there is no way I will ever own a pair. Even if I convinced myself they were perfect for me, my wife would end my life in short order.
Regarding my forever speaker, at 59 years old I've found my preferences are constantly changing. It might be my ears just getting older but I'm convinced there are a long list of preferred speakers in the years to come. Thanks again for the review.
I own a pair Evo Diablos, I own the Sopra 3,and 2. I own Sonus Faber's and more. Anyways. I am in heaven with these speakers. They actually outweigh many many Big floor standers in terms of soundstage and performance ,dynamics. Running it with Sopra Subwoofer. Very few Speakers match these even at $30 000 . Is a JEWEL and a Keeper for me!
Kudos to those people who will buy a speaker like this. They are supporting and subsidizing the rest of us. For most of us mere mortals, the point of diminishing return level, which gives you about 80 to 85 percent of the best available, will have to do.
Andrew, your reviews are up there with the very best 👍
I appreciate that. Thank you.
Really liked Kristi's insightful observations, she neatly puts things into perspective.
lifetime speakers for me are Focal 1028be and I pick them up tomorrow :)
I've run the gamut of speakers over the years and eventually ended up at Focal. Never been happier with a speaker. Excellent video.
Thanks for watching! Which ones did you get?
@@KristiWright an older pair of Focal Electra 926's (bought used). not to be confused with the newer Aria 926. Mine are pre beryllinium, but still what I would describe as highly analytical while others might describe as bright.
Forever is a long time, but at this time of my life the Wharfedale Linton 85 are my favorite speakers.
After many years and many different speakers I finally have my forever speaker. Focal Sopra 1s driven by a Primaluna Dialogue Premium integrated amp. The combination provides everything my 76 year old ears enjoy.
Thanks for a terrific review and I look forward to many more.
With very expensive gear such as Focal (or Wilson, Magico, etc.) loudspeakers the used/demo market can be your very good friend. It has certainly saved me ton of $ over the decades. As a car salesman once said when selling me a certified used sports car, "Let someone else take the ten grand hit driving the new car off of the lot."
Yup, especially if you live near a big city that hosts shows like Axpona, Rocky Mountain Audio Fest or know a high a volume dealer. They usually sell them and electronics as B Stock with Warranty. Some owner's even buy speakers that are too big for their rooms and then trade them in. Same goes for equipment. Definitely some great deals out there
I have owned a lot of speakers all the way upto £10,000. I was Constantly trying to achieve the best sound reproduction but found there was always a compromise no matter what I spent. My current speakers are a wharfedale Evo 4.4 which cost me just over £1k. They are not perfect but they do 95% of what I want from a speaker and Im content. They engage me emotionally into the music and are extremely honest sounding. Nothing added or taken away. I wont be changing my speakers for some time.
"but when the speaker IS the price of a car. . ." haha I love the cartoon portrait of Kristi on the TV.
I've never even been able to spend $17,000 on a car.
@@alm5693 Maybe you're spending too much. jklol
@@alm5693 It's all those starbucks coffees and avocados you've been buying.
@@willfrank961 I'll 'fes up to spending too much on Starbucks, but I can't stand avacados.🤢
An early 80s pair of JBL-L100s are my speakers to keep. I got really lucky and purchased them 2 years ago, in really great quality.
Your video showing the work that Just Audio did on your Pioneer integrated tuner really connected with me. My dad gifted me his Pioneer SX950 when I picked up the JBLs.
I might even send the SX950 to Just Audio for them to do a really good once over on it.
Great work, Christy & Andrew.
As always.
No matter how you want to slice it, they are just gorgeous, aren't they? I am just surprised you didn't mention the B&W 805 D4 which by right should be the Diablo Utopia EVO's most natural and direct competitor with both being on the brighter end of the sound spectrum. I am just surprised Kristi didn't like the look of it, if where you film is actually your home, then I consider the decor as pretty contemporary and modern which to me goes perfectly well with the Focals.
I myself have always been a Focal lover and presently have a set of Chorus 706's in my music system. My forever speaker would have to be something from the Paradigm collection honestly. My first venture into low end audiophile were a set of Paradigm Monitor 5 SE MKII's. The sound of those speakers in the day were pristine to my ear. Use a set of Monitor bookshelf's with a Yamaha amp on my computer. Great review and congrats on the 200k subs. Well deserved.
For 15 years, it has been the Klipsch RF-5. Often overlooked when they were in production, they were made in Hope AK. A two way to we’re with dual 8” woofers and1” titanium tweeter in an 8” horn and recently upgraded crossovers. I added a pair of Magnepan LRS speakers to my list of gear, just to have som3thing completely different. Both leave me tapping my foot while enjoying a very diverse collection of music. I still prefer old school media as opposed to streaming and have no plans to change…… …. at this time. But one thing that is constant in life is change 😉
My "Forever Loudspeaker" is my pair of Tannoy Arden MK II. Got them from my Step-Dad and repaired them with my father. It also was my entrance to the audiophile world.
Andrew I totally agree with your review.You captured the Spirit of Focal. I've also heard Magico S3's, but The Kanta No 2, Sopra No 3's, and Sopra Center I have are on another level of amazing. For rock one of my favorite go to albums is Van Halen-The Collection. Poison- Every Rose Has It's Thorn, Life Goes on, Alice in Chains Unplugged, Nirvana Unplugged, Black Pumas, Shakey Graves-Roll The Bones, Drums in Rush or Some of Phil Collins work are amazing. Freya Riding's - Live at Pancreas Old Church or self titled album are fantastic. A huge gem is Prince- When the Lights Go Down and Purple Rain, and so much more. Some 80's pop recordings surprisingly have great detail as well. The wonderful features about Focals with Beryllium tweeters and either the Flax or W sandwich drivers is the cohesiveness of both to deliver simultaneous fast accurate tight bass and highs that decay naturally while playing the next notes simultaneously with out missing the details in the previous passage. One can hear and feel the body and weight of acoustic and or any instruments and vocals with no loss of detail. Definitely an immersive and addicting expierencince. As for lower quality recordings or favorites, yes it will make you search for better recordings, but I still listen when in the kitchen or other areas of our home, which has in my case made me ask the question of..." Am I listening to the music or equipment?" Either way it's great. My tastes have broadened so much and it's fun. I also agree that you barely need to toe these in. Both my Kantas and Sopras are toed in maybe 5-10 degrees. As for the look. My wife and I love them. The only other speakers in my opinion that are gorgeous to look at and not listen to are the B&W 800D series. I walk in and see how the bafels angle inward inviting you to listen. The finishes are also top notch. One saftey factor I really like about Focal, is how they protect the Berylliium tweeter.. Berylliium is highly toxic and carcinogenic if disturbed/broken. We have a 4 yr old son and Focal uses a non removable metal grille that doesn't impair the highs. I must also add that one can find these on the used market from private party, factory B stock, or from Authorized dealers with minor blemishes at very reasonable prices.
This is much better content than the whole of his video!
@@mesontoHa Ha, nahh. Tx though. I'm just a passionate fan of RUclips reviewers like Andrew and manufacturers that understand how to convey or design Audio and Video gear. Mostly I'm an Audiophile and Hometheater enthusiast that likes to have fun with music I grew up with and discover new artists who pour their soul into getting their art and work out there. I always wanted to be good at playing an instrument, but that wasn't in the cards for me. But I'm blessed to be able to bring that expierencince home. However, there's nothing like a great live performance or to have awesome musical talent. 😀
Focal stuff is crazy expensive but I watched a long video touring the factory and it became pretty apparent why. Amazing materials and craftsmanship, I'd love to hear some of their upper level stuff one of these days.
Love this review! Totally agree with Kristi. Don't know if I'd ever want a pair of Lamborghinis in my listening room.
Feel like my forever speakers are ADS 810's. They're so nostalgic, warm, and friendly, with just enough low end to satisfy my music tastes. Wonderful video!
I watched your video for the review of the Diablo because I have been toying with the idea of changing my speakers. You put forth the notion of an emotional connection which is something I had never thought of before. You got that connection but Christie didn't so we know it is deeply personal. Your video convinced me to start searching for a speaker that I connect with on a emotional level to take it to the next level. Maybe the Focals maybe something else but at least I know what I am looking for.
You can get em used for ~$5-6k. I know its a ton of money but a huge savings. I WILL own a set of the floorstand version.
Really nice when you have Kristi comment as well. Adds a whole other dimension to a review.
You had me all excited that this was going to be a review of the Utopia towers. I don't blame you for not wanting to lug around 150lb towers. But it would have been super cool to see if 30k loud speakers still need a subwoofer. Maybe you'll get to review the Kanta 3's at some point?
The Utopia towers and Kanta Towers don't need subs. Ofcourse you can add them in but the output volume will be very low. Also, they need lots of room to breathe. They produce a lot of bass and can easily become overwhelming in a smaller room.
That shot where the speaker grill is present and then transitions out was really neat, I consistently love what you guys do with your shots. Great review as well!
Thank you Jared. Appreciate it!
Andrew, your design taste is phenomenal. I like the Liechtenstein. The speakers? Well, get some KEF LS50's in white. They look just as good and probably sound close at a fraction of the price.
Excellent review that covers a speaker I will never be able to purchase but can appreciate what it offers. Also appreciate Kristi's assessment, she always adds a down to earth vision that compliments Andrew's detailed review.
I appreciate a nice Lamborghini as much as the next guy. I have a neighbor that drives one. It’s fun to hear it start up. He’s got an aftermarket titanium exhaust system that likely cost more than my little Audi TTS. I like the TTS because it’s quick and handles well and feels a bit exclusive without much of the price tag. No it doesn’t perform like the Lambo but it’s likely that I would never experience the extra performance that I’m missing. There are times when I wish I had bought a Tacoma. I probably will go that direction next time. I don’t know that I have a “forever” speaker. I don’t think I can really appreciate the difference in super expensive speakers. I could see a pair of La Scalas if I had the ideal space for it. But I don’t. I might eventually go for a pair of KLH Model 5s. I like the nostalgia factor. Certainly any of the Klipsch Heritage line. I’m easy. I prefer classic looks and I like my sound to be engaging more than accurate. I like things that just work. That probably should be my epitaph.
Fairly new subscriber and you may never read this but just thought I'd throw this general comment in having watched a few of your videos now. On your own it's interesting but it doesn't hold me. However, with Kristi and the discussion I feel like I'm getting a fuller picture and the dynamic of you being challenged (however slightly) lifts this from good to great. Good job both of you.
I like the little jab at Wilson. Well played.
I love that you guys do reviews on these kinds of speakers. It’s the closest I’ll ever get to them.
Would you consider comparing these to the Focal Sopra No 1?
They can be purchased on the used market for about 1/3 the price and look to have mostly the same driver technology. Also they have a walnut cabinet 😮
I think I'd rather spend the $17k on a new car. Then also add a subwoofer.
Yet another great review Andrew, and as always it was great hearing you and Kristy talking afterwards. She can always be relied on for a 'cut-though' evaluation.
You guys work so well together, and from a viewer's perspective it's an added layer of involvement. Kudos to you both.
Still loving my pair of chorus 836's from 10 or 11 years ago. I've demoed Sopras, Kantas, and Electras, and just don't hear a big enough difference for what the cost differential is. If sopra 2's ever get down to $6k used, maybe.
It's 12:45am and I just got home from work and getting into bed. . This is when you drop new videos 😭😭
At least I have something to look forward to in the morning!
Robert, we'll be here when you wake up! Rest easy.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews one of my best sleeps! And fantastic review!!!
The great debate regarding price vs incremental increase in sound quality
Seems I missed this review when it first came out. Great review Andrew. I've been fortunate enough to hear this speaker and I absolutely love them as well.
Ive listened to these with a mcintosh tube amp (forget the model) in an audio store. Its really amazing! After listening to it, i can say my cheap audio gear is trash. Lol
I tried many high end speakers in my 15 years in this hobby and I can say that my forever speakers are my legacy audio aeris
I keep revisiting your old clips. I just now found these Focals on NY sale 54% off. How would you compare them to B&W 805 D4’s?? Thanks 😊
Hey Andrew & Kristi! To your question: my forever main speakers will be Klipsch Forte iv's. I haven't received them yep but I know there will be a sentimental attachment caused by the memory's made with my family. Dance party's with my daughter and music and movies with my wife and daughter. Plus I already have sentimental attachment growing up listening to Forte 1 with my dad. The only good memories I have with him.
This video was helpful for me because I always wonder in the back of my mind if Focals are worth the extra money. For some people I'm sure they are but for me I have many reasons to stand by my Fortes for the long haul.
The Forte IVs are so darn good. We can't wait to hear what you think of your Fortes. How long do until they arrive?
@@andrewrobinsonreviews My Anthem MRX 1140 is on backorder for who-knows-how-long and I told them to just hold the Forte's and ship them out together so it could be awhile plus I have to coordinate the delivery for when I am at my vacation house in AZ. where I will eventually retire. I will absolutely let you know what I think of them and maybe send you a picture of my setup. I appreciate both of you very much for your knowledge and continuous help through my journey!
Btw The Anthem products have also increased in price since my purchase so definitely pulled the trigger at the right time!
Thank you so much. I was waiting for this. 😃And I have the same opinion as you when I was listening to Scala Utopia Evo comparing to the Aria line which I proudly own. I said the same thing, around 80% percent of performance you can easily get from Focal’s lower price range.
I've had the Diablo for about 6 years now and I have to say that they take a bit of running in. Enough of that though, it has been well documented elsewhere. I was set on a pair of Quad ESLs but they just wouldn't fit into my space, which was a shame as driving them with a Accuphase E450, they sounded just incredible. But deciding I needed something easier to live with, I found the Diablos. What attracted me to them was the wonderful detail and transparency in the mids. They were simply the closest to the Quads and looked almost as good (I have the single pillar stands with the large black foot, which looking at your set, have been superseded, as has the tweeter cover). Again, I power these with the Accuphase and they sound remarkable. Even my sister, who has no interest in hi-fi whatsoever, commented that they were clearly something special. At the front end, I'm using a Node 1, which is a nightmare in its handing of files but sounds ok. It's clearly the weak link in the system, but being over 60 I doubt I could upgrade to any benefit. I also have them almost hard against back walls. They don't seem to mind and I have tried other positions to no real benefit. The bass is better with no loss of highs or mids. The one area where they do fall down however, is in volume. You have to drive them quite hard to get the best from them. You won't realise how loud they are because distortion is many d/b away, but like all speakers, crank them up enough and they will eventually distort. Interestingly, I did this a few times and it freed up the bass. But for a 'bookshelf' speaker, they do need winding up to get the best. You can actually hear them getting better as you turn up the volume. But go too far and they start to drop off, and that's before distortion arrives. I love them though and would only swap for a bigger house and a pair of Quads.
You guys need to get your hands on a Rel sub. Maybe the TX line. I just got the T9x and it’s been a transformative experience.
Hey Andrew , always a delight watching your reviews. All the best to you and Kristi. - Grumps from NZ
I'm just amazed vintage speakers 60's,70's,80's are still being referenced or preferred in 2021. The HiFi forefathers really knew what they were doing!
Those are some sexy speakers! Unless I win the lottery, they will remain in the realm of a Ferrari. I’ll probably never experience it but can admire it from afar.
My forever speaker is the B&W Nautilus speakers, over 20 years old now predating diamond tweeters and went into a show room in nyc stating a had a 10k budget, 50k later I walked away with the nautilus. The speaker just spoke to me. More recently a few months ago I listened to the Forte IV’s fell in love with their “live” forward sound signature. Bought them instantly and for someone like myself who misses live concerts I absolutely love the Forte. In no way are they as audiophile or perfect sounding as the Nautilus but in recent time they really speak to me.
I’d suggest trying a Harbeth speaker next.
You ask the question, “what would our forever Speakers be?” I would like some clarification on that question, am I single? married? Divorced? Or am I buying a pair of forever speakers while married with the intention of having those speakers cause a divorce? You see, what I would be buying under each circumstance as my forever speaker would be different...
My most expensive luxury is my wife. Second is my audio:)
luxury wife can be your biggest headache, audio is your friend forever.
Happy wife happy life with fine audio is a win. 😉
You obviously didn't get Andrew's Instagram post today.
@@nacarp2000 she would say the same about me.. does that cancel it out? Or if she was a he
Your interior and b-roll are close to flawless as usual 👌
Forever speaker? Probably my Beovox and Beolab Pentas, just love them to death. Design and sound in perfect harmony!
Hey guys, excellent review!! My forever speaker are right there in front of my eyes and have been for almost 24 years : JMLAB Opal 49 with it's matching center and satellite. JMLab is the name Focal sells in France. Ii'm confused about that when and were the two names are used, but my speakers have the JmLab name and the Focal logo. They are still in really good shape and used everyday with my gaming and streaming...
They used to be known as JMLAB Focal and have always been forward thinking in their design. Cool to know you have a pair!
Fantastic review, helped me decide to finally just buy the them and I'm absolutely glad I did. They are just amazing. The look amazing and fit in well with my all black gyrodec and Mcintosh amp. I have heard things I've never heard before and can spend hours listening to them. Had Dynaudios before these so don't entirely agree you could listen to Dynaudio longer than the Focal.
Outstanding bookshelf speakers.
Keep up the great reviews 👍.
Thinking to upgrade to the focal diablo utopia from focal sopra no.1 on my naim 500 series ! hope i get a significant uplift in mids and high frequencies from the upgrade !!
I recently did an A/B comparison with the Scala Evo and Sopra 2. The Scala was impressive, so much so that I worked out a trade-in for my Sopras and will be taking delivery on the dealer’s Scala demo pair next weekend.
Did hearing the Scala make me like my Sopra 2’s less? No. If I couldn’t make the jump, I’d remain happy with my Sopras.
I enjoyed the review. While I could afford these, the diminishing returns as the price escalates will stop me. I would love to hear them at a dealer, show, or someone's home, but they will never grace my home. For those who can and choose to indulge, enjoy!!!!
Kristy saying Audiophile ahahahahaha! Priceless reaction 😝🤣
🙋♀️
the answer is that it depends on the speakers...some do, some do not. in that price range, I would choose the MBL Corona Line, which has an amazing sound and to which I have listened. I also like the Avant Garde speakers better than the Focal. The Focals do also sound great.
Forever speaker: Dynaudio Heritage Special….well I mean so far…soooo many I’d like to hear that I can’t afford! Awesome video Andrew 👍
I have the Diablo speakers paired with NAIM 272/250 and I do get the emotional feelings that you shared in the video. Recently I was fortunate to upgrade my dac to Playback Design Dream and totally took this speaker to another level! All I’m saying this even till now I still haven’t seen the limit to this speaker and looking forward bring more out of it in the future.
Hi guys, any chance you can test the Focals Sopra No1?
That would be sublime!!
I don't know if I'll ever have a "forever" speaker. This isn't due to issues with speakers I've owned but to "the grass is always greener" voice that rattles around in my melon. It's the same way for me with custom bicycles, photo gear, and target guns. "Oh I own a couple Serotta's and a Kirk JKS... Hmm Carl Strong builds some really cool stuff. Geeeee my Browning 725 and Winchester 21 are GREAT! OH LOOK AT THAT PERAZZI MX8!" things like that.
My favorite part of the review was Kristi's auto analogy. THAT hit the nail square on the head.
One of the other issues that I have is that I live 10 minutes from the McIntosh factory and literally around the corner from a great shop so great gear is almost like the story of Tantalus... ;)
Thanks for another great video!
I had Focal Arias before and despite they have some advantages their sound in general was not satisfactory. Maybe Utopias would be a better option for hardcore audiophile like me.
Which model? I've got the 926s
It were 936
Lowers focal models have poor enclosures, power magnets, poor tuning in general. Sopra and Utopia is were Focal is better than majority.
Hardcore audiophile like you... clown.
I like so much the way you guys describe the sound of every gear you guys review. It allows us to get a great picture of what to expect from that piece of equipment without even listening to it. Being in Colombia - South America makes it difficulto to get a chance to listen to every speaker, amp or source component from every brand, but from what I had the chance to listen to it, I would go for the sound of the Focal Aria 948s. I love the great tight bass, the detail (specially in the mids, where much of the engaging factor is at), and the wide stereo image those speakers project. You guys have done a wonderful work. Greetings from Colombia.
Once I saw the surprised/confused cyclops with a flavor saver wearing a headlamp I can't un-see the surprised/confused cyclops with a flavor saver wearing a headlamp.
Hi Andrew/Kristi
Lovely review as always.
As to my forever speaker: In the next year or so I will be buying the Turning Point model HR-1. It is a Hybrid radial design sold through the Decware website. Gorgeous, easy to live with, and works in a room where you can't have the speaks 3 feet+ out into the room. Can't wait!
The 906 is the best Focal sweet spot that you’ve never reviewed :)
Electra 906 right ? I do own one pair, I have to test them with other amps. I use them to check my mixes/recordings, that's quite good for the price you can get them, and a good addition comparing recordings/mixes with Beyerdynamics DT250.
Though i'd be curious comparing with some Davis Acoustics speakers, I unfortunately don't know much about their older models, and i'm opened to know more about them. Though I did installed a 90's Carbon/Kevlar kit from this brand in my car, and holy hell, this is completely impressive.
That was awesome to watch! Especially at the end when you said if you wanna get rid that resonance in that bass that’s gonna cost you 10 grand!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Holy shit. It has to be one of the most beautiful speakers I have ever seen
Then check out the rest of the Focal Utopia series and you'd have to get help picking your jaw off the floor.
That techics amp is gorgeous 😍
Tbh I never really felt like I knew I wanted to keep a speaker before. I always tell myself “I’m gonna upgrade to this because I want this” down the road. But I purchased 2 big SVS pb3000’s a year ago-ish and I am still telling myself “I don’t need anything better” in the bass category. Now it’s about finding my syrup to go with the pancakes. (Speakers that fit all of my wants and needs) which is probably impossible but maybe one day
Just goes to show how something sounds isn't everything, how it makes you feel plays a big part too.
My (maybe) forever speaker: Wilson Audio SabrinaX.
I bought my first pair of high-end speakers, B&W N804s, when I was 21, spending way more money than any kid should have on audio. I still have them, I still I enjoy them, but it’s time for a change. I’m 42 and fairly certain I’ll be getting SabrinaX speakers. Will I buy something else at 62? Hard to say, but I do know I won’t be speaker shopping again for a LONG time.
Once upon a time my forever speaker would've been the Wilson Audio Sophia so I get it!
Because loudspeakers are extraordinarily room dependent, very expensive speakers can sound lousy while a pair of cheap ones can sound very good. The price of some loudspeakers today is becoming ridiculously high. The price of the Focals should include a pair of subwoofers. I bet my Rogers Studio 1 loudspeakers (made in England) sound better, and they only cost $1600 a pair
As aperson of limited means, my forever speakers are the ones I've owned for 40 years the Braun L 1030/4 ohm!
very cool!
Focal Aria series... you never get fatigued in the head.
You need to get some of the Creative Sound Solutions bookshelf speakers in for review, like the P215 or the Criton 1TD-X. The P215 won awards for being one of the best bookshelf offerings under $10,000
Came for the Focal Utopia review, stayed for the B&W 606s2 burns. Seriously, I love Focal but I honestly thought the Sopra was good enough. It's most of the way to the Utopia and you can have a full range Sopra 2 floorstander for less money than these standmounters. It's a bit like saying how great value a 911 is by comparison with an Aventador but it you want a high performance sports car the 911 might be a bit more accessible while getting you most of what you want. Not sure if you've tested the Sopra 2s but they might be one of those products that's so good you have to spend a lot more to eclipse it.
We considered reviewing the Sopras but I think there weren't any available at the time of our request so we ultimately went with these. They look great and I don't doubt for a second that they rock. Thanks so much for watching!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews thank you & Kristi for making such great content. If you get the chance to try out the Sopra 2s then please do. You won't regret it. You will of course have to ride a tsunami of comments about how expensive they are, whether they're too bright, loving /loathing the styling and whether the channel will ever review an affordable speaker again etc 😁
@sdemosi I agree. The amazing part of the higher Focal lines starting with Sopras, is that it's hard to find their performance Peak because the more higher end gear you give them the more they perform. I have the No3's and found a great set-up. You can go mad trying to find better gear. Lol
@@LuxAudio389 I think you've nicely summed up my thinking. The higher end Focal are "destination speakers". It's not that the owner would never thinking of buying another speaker but unless you're going to spend hundreds of $k, you have something that is as good as anyone really needs and can grow with you for years. I also think the Sopra is beautiful design. They have a modernist architectural quality and a unique design language that I think works just a little better than the Utopia. Kristi is right to talk about design, despite what some commenters think. You have to live with these products. There's something special about an illuminated VU, the McIntosh blue glow, the Devialet remote, the Classe curve, and those pieces of great design that make you admire the inspiration & execution. They enhance the ownership experience. And I guess that's why I still want a pair of B&W nautilus some day. I know I can't justify them on any objective grounds but seeing them in a store in London got me into this hobby. Loudspeaker as organic sculpture is still a beautiful concept. They are basically fine art that happen to reproduce music wonderfully.
I would totally buy that speaker if I could afford it. Im probably closer to getting a used Sopra 1 which hopefully gets close.
"Do EXPENSIVE Speakers SOUND BETTER? "....YES
after 10 grand. not really
Kristis last point goes far. Its good to see how good the top end is. Its good to see how good is 100%. Then its good to know how close high end , which is affordable now, gets to that 100%. Diminishing returns
Thanks for hanging out until the end, Sammy.
Is there a contractual reason we never actually see Kristi?
What’s was your favorite combination of electronics with the Diablo Utopia?
I have a pair as my B system, and working on fleshing out the electronics.
My heart missed a beat when Kristi said she prefers the looks of the La Scala over the Utopia. Nothing prepared me for that.
Maybe she's a classic gal. I still remember my grandpa's wood RCA console tv with a record player under a hinged cover to the left and a radio to the right. Classic stuff 😀😂
even i do. especially for price la scala looks much better TO ME [as i love symetry and straight lines & not curvy lines like focal has] than these focal or infact any focal speakers but their headphones looks epic af especially the new clear mg pro with that red ❤️
We need a review eventually of a ridiculous speaker or system from a HiFi enthusiast that goes to the extreme of extremes. Thank you for the video guys 😊 Seeing Andrew fanboy is good for the soul!