True story: My best friend bought his girlfriend-now-wife an engagement ring to distract her and hide the fact that he had also bought himself a new HIFI system. :-)
An engagement stereo system is sheer brilliance! I agree with you... that should be a new tradition! Now, we just have to figure out who to contact about making that official!
First off, the sound you get out of such a small box is insane, the rear ports do such a wonderful job on the lows! I have these on a bookshelf in my office for music and they are 100% killer for low level listening. I don't feel they need a sub at all and off axis listening is actually wonderful, which is another plus for them. My opinion of them overall is that they are warm and laid back, mids and treble are less prominent, so if you compare speakers that are very forward and detailed in the mids and highs these might seem rolled off, it's all relative I suppose, but a warmer speaker in my opinion does better at lower volumes and is less fatiguing. If I compare them to my german speakers (which have detailed highs and are vocal forward), these seem to lack some detail, but overall I prefer the sound of these, they are the opposite of fatiguing, they are so smooth you want to listen for hours and you can always use tone controls to bring some highs back in if needed (but they are absolutely fine flat as well). I have several pair of $2000+ speakers and what blows me away is how good these measure up to those for a fraction of the cost in such a small form factor, would recommend these to anyone, a fabulous speaker, I'm blown away! At the sale price these are a total steal!
Just picked up a used set of these in white for 100 euro's to replace a Logitech set on my desk based on this review and from the first notes I knew I now have something special on my desk. The level of detail is amazing and I wholeheartedly agree that these make for an awesome set of desktop speakers! I paired them with a stereo 2x50 watt Yamama amp and I love what I'm hearing. Thank you for this review!
Greetings! Which Yamaha amp do you use with these? I'm thinking about pairing these with a Yamaha A-S301 which I've heard several people describe as a little too forward in the upper mids or even bright. I'm thinking these little guys might balance it out. Mostly I've settled for the 301 for versatility. I listen to vinyl, cd, tape and streaming at a wide desk. I also do some home taping / dubbing, so rec out is a must. Best regards / Nils
I love Dali speakers, I have heard three different lines from them never heard one I didn't like. I have this pair on my desk but if you put them in a decent room and a amp better than the small you will be blown away even more.
Thanks for taking the time and make this video. I got the Dali Spektors 2 as a gift to myself last Black Friday. I'm no audiophile but they sound great to me. Enough bass unless you want your neighbors to hate you. Heavy metal, rock, blues sound great through these. I spent hours on YT and audio forums trying to make up my mind about what speakers to get. Wish I had watched this video before :)
Love the way you reviewed the speaker. I realized that not many youtubers does your style, very down to earth, not many retakes etc. It felt like I was talking to a friend how was explaining the ins and outs of this Dali speaker. I just bought one today, I am sorry but I will actually use them as a surround speaker to complement my B&W dm303, Spektor center speaker and XTZ 10 inch sub. Thank you again, I will keep coming back to your channel! =)
Just connected these (got them based on your Saturday morning Q&A a couple weekends ago) and changed out my Moukey 20s on my desktop. For a few minutes, I felt like I was missing bass. Then...I played Paul Simon's "Late in the Evening" followed by "Redemption Song". And I was just grinning from ear to ear. "Three Little Birds" played right after, and wow, the bass went was all there - musical, bounce and happy. I was hearing these songs so differently. Because I use an adjustable standing desk, I'm definitely relying on the off-axis experience, and man, it's consistent. Nailed this one!
I've had these about a week, bought them bundled with the denon pma-600ne for what I would consider a bargain price. It's changed my life, they sound unbelievable
@@aaronkon I'm in the UK so hope it's still relevant. Bought the bundle from Peter Tyson. Was £449, so not like dirt cheap but I was pleased. The amp retails at £369 generally and the Dalis are around £159 new so I was pleased all in for £449. They also gave speaker cable and extended warranty in the bundle. I saw the Dalis go for £100 on ebay and home av direct have em for £129 ex demo. So there's further bargains to be had out there
I confirm, i use them with smsl sa 300 for desktop use and music listing and they are pretty awesome. Great soundstage, they are very good with soft music, classic rock, blues ect.
I have been using Dali Spektor 2 for a week and I am very pleased with it. I definitely agree with you. I am considering purchasing a Dali Spektor 1 with more suitable dimensions for my Desktop Computer in my office.
7:28 "Bass drum... kick drum, I hate that word." The term' kick drum' is a layman's term hi-jacking the original term-- Kick. Kick is the first thing a sound engineer calls for when laying down a mix. All mixes are built around the bass drum which is the first sound captured as a foundation. Whether in the studio or 150' back at FOH position the engineer calls out "single shots Kick" No engineer says Kick Drum-- that's an audiophile term adopted to be in the know. Fun fact: When I first starting mixing Reggae the singer said, "make the foot drum sit on my nose, mon" My response: "Yes mon, me the loudest soundman in the world... thief me a splif and me sound even louder!"
Bought this speakers few days ago and to my ear the bass mostly is there but it's laid back. You need to listen loud to get/hear more bass which is not my fav way of listening (higher frequencies then are too loud and fatiguing). I've EQued to bump the lows but still not there. I would recommend add sub to this speakers if you like music witch needs decent lows (or for movies and games). The Dali Spektor 2 is much better speaker which don't need sub for music to my ear and is great all arounder, gives more excitment. If you have more space to get Spektor 2 this is my recommendation. Thanks!
I should have seen your comment sooner. I bought the Spektor 1 based on this review but I will return them due to the lack of bass and exaggerated highs
I've had these speakers a couple of years, powered by my Marantz amp, these speakers are little miracles, they are punchy, precise and very musical... play 2112 and you'll be impressed... I play movies through them too in stereo... watched a Sergio Leone movie and the sound was really projected. If you are on a budget or just don't want to waste money try these... ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Greetings from Turkey, I have been using Dali Spektor 2 for a week and I am very pleased. I am considering purchasing a Dali Spektor 1 with more suitable dimensions for my Desktop Computer in my office. Thanks for the review. Edit; My Dali Spektor 1 speaker arrived today. Naturally, I had the opportunity to compare it with Dali Spektor 2. Although Spektor 1 has a small cabinet and drivers, it sounds very good. Of course, it only comes close to the bass level of Spektor 2. But this doesn't make a huge difference. I recommend it to anyone who is looking for a stylish looking speaker that takes up little space on the desk or bookshelf and provides high quality sound. In short, Spektor 1 will please a normal user. I paired Dali Spektor 1 with the Fosi Audio BT20A Class D amplifier on my computer in my office, and I use Dali Spektor 2 in my living room at home. I'm thinking of pairing it with a good amplifier in the future, what would you recommend?
Ok. Just picked up a couple of these on account of you. Thanks so much for starters. Your channel is next level. Love it. I seriously had to check that my high end center was not on. These are impressive!
Hey man! Great review! One thing folks might want to try with Dali is face forward, no toe-in as if I remember, how they are designed. Granted, this could come down to listener preference but something with trying if you find them bright or a bit sparky! Also - idea... audiophile pomade? We could sell it on the podcast? Get rich... Buy some Ferraris and ride off into the sunset?
If you have a problem with a bookshelf speaker sounding muddled to it's interacting with a shelf or whatever, turn it upside down. Lots of speakers are designed with the tweeted on the bottom. It works. Not joking.
Thanks for this review Randy! Followed your advice... Last week I bought a pair of these fellas for on my desk, and I really happy with them! Clear, detailed 'centered' sound, very enjoyable. Compared to my Q Acoustics 3050i's they are little bit 'clean' & analytic. But those 3050i's are quadruple the price of the Spektor's and ten times bigger. For this size and price (190 euro / 230 US Dollar with tax incl.) I rate this speakers 9 out of 10.
With a sense of humour like that, how are you not British?! Loved everything about your review. It has given me much confidence after ordering these today. Thanks!
I have the bigger brother Spektor 2! Awesome speakers for £199 ($276)! By the way, the manufacturer does recommend to ideally place them in front of the listener, not toed in.
Indeed they are great for a desk setup. In my case a home office deluxe desk. As I am limited due to a sloping wall and recently upgraded to a height adjustable table, everything needs to be very tiny that is close to the slope. I previously used Monitor Audio Bronze BX2 on the desk (its a big desk). I tried the Dali Spector 1 and Q Acoustics Concept 20. At the time of writing, that is 150€ vs. 450€ here. I actually kept the Spector due to their perfect size and great sound. Of course the QA sound different (better?), and the Monitor Audio did as well, but as you also noticed, the Dali are a small miracle and perfect for my personal setup.
I live in a tiny house (or 'hoose' if you prefer) in Scotland, where we tend not to have very big rooms, and have been looking for a good sounding compact speaker to pair with a yet-to-be-bought Denon RCD-N11 mini system, and I think these might just fit the bill. Thanks for the great review!
I don't care what you compare, just compare! Perfect idea for content; your approach in explaining is great with a dab of beginners info as well as in depth evaluations and explanation. Its never over my head and we get a reminder of some things. Thanks for doing with audio what I cannot afford to but want to
You should step up to Dali’s next speaker line. The Oberon’s - would love to get your thoughts on them! Keep up the good work! Just discovered your stuff a few months back and have been watching since. 🔊
@@cheapaudioman what I would find very exciting would be a comparison between klipsch r-51m, dali spector 1 and dali spektor 2 with focus on a desktop use. All are close in price and I can't decide yet what to buy.
Dali is awesome. I use the Dali Oberon 1 btw. The over dimensioned tweeters are not very critical in placement height nor with, have great soundstage near field AND IN a room combined with for example 2 small emotiva subs.
I am currently living in Europe, and saw some Dali wireless over ear headphones, bought them, and they were EXCELLENT. Dali make good products, they are a Danish company, so many are manufactured in the EU, some in China, but very good design. Excellent sound.
I tried them, really liked them. Not the most dynamic and somewhat laid back compared to what I am used to but I'd be very happy with these as well. Didn't try the Spektor 2 but guess they'd be better by size. Oberon 1s take that to the next level a bit but both provide good sound. Oberon vinyl wrap is premium, thick with texture. Didn't try Zensor series but some people say a bit brighter. Dalis are a seriously good speaker, at the top for under $400 budget. Kefs have more detail, a more forward sound. Out if the two I think I'd go with Dalis, next size up if nothing else for looks alone. NOTE: 83 db...so they need a little power and don't expect party level sound but the size is great.
Got these little speakers to upgrade from Eltax Monitor III. Great for the little space I have under my TV. They are so much clearer in the treble compared to my former speakers. Bass is less present but still enjoyable. Plus they are so cute ! Smaller but quite an upgrade for my ears. Got them for 80€ shipped in second hand 😮
i think good bookshelf speakers shouldn't have a problem doing the disappearing act, but it will depend highly on the recording. old jazz recordings don't help them a lot because back then the recording process kind of stuck sounds in one channel or the other, not a lot of mixing and other tricks that recording studios learned to do later.
Thanks! Really enjoy your reviews and ive been waiting for a Dali review :D i have the last generation of those called Zensor 1, with a Dali zensor 1 vokal center speaker. Music is just amazing on those speakers, so can imagine how great the spektors are. So thanks, and keep up the good work.
I'm currently being divorced by my third wife, and really wish I'd thought of that rings/stereo system deal. If I'd upgraded each time, I could've been listening to Hegel or McIntosh gear by this point!
i was looking to start with all that vinyl stuff cause i really wanted to just be able to physically have the albums i love, and im was looking for a good -looking, well sounding speaker. this helped me a lot, thanks!
I think the opposite party should get a gift at least 3x the value ;)...Jeez, I still have my Dali Piano Agile's from 2005. Heavy as hell but I love them to bits :). Keep up the good work CheapAsAudioMan :)
I am looking at the dali specktor 1 and 2 . Which is best for desktop nearfield listening ? I have an onkyo a9010 amplifier , ifi zen dac and a suca m1 tube buffer pre amp . Thank you kindly
these are small small speaker. I'd say they're more neutral out of the bunch but these won't push nearly as much air as the others and may struggle in a bigger room. On a desktop or nearfield scenario then it's a more difficult discussion.
I'd really like to see a discussion panel one day with you, Ron from NRD, Sean from Zero Fidelity, Steve Guttenberg, Thomas from Thomas & Stereo, and Jay from Next Best Thing Studio just talking shop. I think it would be hugely beneficial and hilarious.
@@cheapaudioman gtfoh man. You have a really fresh take on audio and since so much of it is subjective you would absolutely contribute to whatever discussion is being had. Don't get me wrong, the humor really makes your channel fun but I watch because I value your opinion. I have some of the speakers you've reviewed/discussed and I don't disagree with much of anything you've said about them. Also: getting Thomas on Between Two Speakers would be a f***in' riot.
sounds like an extremely positive review. But then I've never seen these speakers being mentioned in any top5/10 best budget speakers. Why is that? I'm asking since I've ordered them and wanted to know how they compare with the Elac
Got these as I have very limited space in my home office and cannot squeeze anything bigger, very nice speakers, I run them through a smsl sa300 and I'm pretty satisfied, it's the ultimate compact combo
Currently swaying between these and the spektor 2. They're for a fairly small room so dont think the extra expense is worth it versus these? Unless anyone has other opinions?
I like this dude! He's funny and gets his message across simply and in and entertaining way. I have owned these speakers in a while and what he says is very accurate. And I think I have a similar duvet cover. Not sergio's for sure, but looks almost the same. :-D You're good man, I like you.
Can you compare these to the Wharfdale Diamonds 11.1 for a desk setup? I know they are different sizes but they are the same price online currently. Also don't review the Spektor 2, review the Opticon 2 (mk1) instead please!!!! thanks for the content!
Hi.. How do they compete against Edifier s3000pro, people say its far better than its price and that they can compete with much more expensive speakers. I could be paying for the brand name more than sound quality with Dali i feel. I wanna make sure i pay for sound quality and not so much the brand name.. Example, you know "Supreme" clothing. Their Hoodies are not worth more than a 100$ hoodie but cost around 400$ and id like to save those 300$ for the same quality materials as the 100$ shirt/hoodie.
congrats on how quickly your channel has grown. I'd love to see some turntable recommendations for us newbs. I finally decided the AT 120x was the right fit of budget and performance and its discontinued it seems. Give me a cheap audio man Turntable approach to early 2021.
Be interesting to see what you think of the B and W 607s. For me these are right at the top for speakers between £300-£250. Fairly low sensitivity (84db), but otherwise fantastic.
Loved the review as always. Thanks to your reviews, I got Edifier 1850 for my computer but now I needsomething for my Hi-Fi. I watched your other video qit q350, and I have to decide to go either with Dali Oberon 1 or KEF Q350 - to be paired with Marantz Melody 612 in a room 4mx4.5m (12'x15' ish). Price wise excatly the same, not a penny difference. What do you guys think?
Duvets are the stupidest thing! I have what I would consider the Wilson audio of bedding and I wouldn't dare put a duvet over my comforter. Heck, the duvet that I could put on the comforter cost half as much as the freaking comforter! Now back to the show!😉😝😇
I'm considering these for my bedroom. Dalis are great for the price. My Oberon 5 floorstanders are an end point for me, considering they'll hopefully be with me for the next 30~40 years, €799 is cheap.
I just ordered them for on my desk to replace my computer speakers. They are more affordable in Europe than in the US. I will pair them with an SMSL SA300. Thank you for the recommendation.
Randy, great review - thanks for the honest assessment. One other question for you - is that "Prince Albert" in the can, sitting on the shelf over your left shoulder? Well, dog gone it - let him out!
You are a Legend!! I love your way of explaining things. A question : Can I mount them on Wall as Surround Rear Speakers with Dali Oberon 3's. Confused between the Spektor 1's and ELAC DOW4.2 and Polk Audio OWM3.
LOL, Audio engagagement.. I Iove your Mexa-mug. Hey have not seen any of your videos talking about automatic-room-correction, id like to know what are the cheap versions how they compare to Onkyo's, Pioner's, Yamaha's, NAND's etc etc. or at least your opinion about them.
Hey cheapauduodude, how do you review these or any speakers without noticing, or failing to mention the overal tonal balance of the speakers? (wich in this case is spooned out in the middle and bright on top) It's nice to know how you liked the bass, mdrange and treble individually, and how they sounded on this song or that, but you don't convey their overall tonal balance top to bottom, wich is fundemental to getting a useful sense of what they actually sound like from someones description. 🙄
Have you done a comparison yet between the Elac Unifi 52 and the KEF Q150? I think a coaxial shootout would be cool. If you have them both. I don't think a coaxial speaker shootout should cost more than three taxidermy horseshoe bats on Ebay.
Great job again! Think you would like the little more expensive Dali as well. Try to get the Oberon 1 or even better the 3 it’s next class up in the line.
Randy, you need to try out the song "To Rich For My Blood" by Patricia Barber from her 1994 album "Cafe Blue" Awesome bass and incredible range in the song. It is really low and also really high. It will stress a speaker system and give you an idea of the limits of your system.
Just started getting into HiFi again. Gonna try to find a pair of these locally and hook 'em up with Randy's recommended Aiyima T9 DAC/Amp......... let see how we get on..
I have the Spektor 2 with a sub on my second system, I totally love them. Bought last summer for 198€, a real bargain. Now they seem to cost more though...
True story: My best friend bought his girlfriend-now-wife an engagement ring to distract her and hide the fact that he had also bought himself a new HIFI system. :-)
An engagement stereo system is sheer brilliance! I agree with you... that should be a new tradition! Now, we just have to figure out who to contact about making that official!
First off, the sound you get out of such a small box is insane, the rear ports do such a wonderful job on the lows! I have these on a bookshelf in my office for music and they are 100% killer for low level listening. I don't feel they need a sub at all and off axis listening is actually wonderful, which is another plus for them. My opinion of them overall is that they are warm and laid back, mids and treble are less prominent, so if you compare speakers that are very forward and detailed in the mids and highs these might seem rolled off, it's all relative I suppose, but a warmer speaker in my opinion does better at lower volumes and is less fatiguing. If I compare them to my german speakers (which have detailed highs and are vocal forward), these seem to lack some detail, but overall I prefer the sound of these, they are the opposite of fatiguing, they are so smooth you want to listen for hours and you can always use tone controls to bring some highs back in if needed (but they are absolutely fine flat as well). I have several pair of $2000+ speakers and what blows me away is how good these measure up to those for a fraction of the cost in such a small form factor, would recommend these to anyone, a fabulous speaker, I'm blown away! At the sale price these are a total steal!
Just picked up a used set of these in white for 100 euro's to replace a Logitech set on my desk based on this review and from the first notes I knew I now have something special on my desk. The level of detail is amazing and I wholeheartedly agree that these make for an awesome set of desktop speakers! I paired them with a stereo 2x50 watt Yamama amp and I love what I'm hearing. Thank you for this review!
Greetings! Which Yamaha amp do you use with these?
I'm thinking about pairing these with a Yamaha A-S301 which I've heard several people describe as a little too forward in the upper mids or even bright. I'm thinking these little guys might balance it out.
Mostly I've settled for the 301 for versatility. I listen to vinyl, cd, tape and streaming at a wide desk. I also do some home taping / dubbing, so rec out is a must.
Best regards / Nils
@@Gefrce so did you decide on your amp?
@dudebro777 Hey! I haven't gotten it yet, but my heart is set on the 301 + a small speaker and sub combo.
I love Dali speakers, I have heard three different lines from them never heard one I didn't like. I have this pair on my desk but if you put them in a decent room and a amp better than the small you will be blown away even more.
Heck, that makes me want to get married again so I can get another stereo system... I need to check with my wife first though.
let me know what kind of feedback you get on that.
Easier to beg for forgiveness than to ask for permission!
feedback... i imagine very harsh sibilant treble, with unmistakable imaging on top of an extremely present “in the room” soundstage
Thanks for taking the time and make this video. I got the Dali Spektors 2 as a gift to myself last Black Friday. I'm no audiophile but they sound great to me. Enough bass unless you want your neighbors to hate you. Heavy metal, rock, blues sound great through these. I spent hours on YT and audio forums trying to make up my mind about what speakers to get. Wish I had watched this video before :)
Love the way you reviewed the speaker. I realized that not many youtubers does your style, very down to earth, not many retakes etc. It felt like I was talking to a friend how was explaining the ins and outs of this Dali speaker. I just bought one today, I am sorry but I will actually use them as a surround speaker to complement my B&W dm303, Spektor center speaker and XTZ 10 inch sub.
Thank you again, I will keep coming back to your channel! =)
Would be great to see a nearfield/desktop shootout with the Dali, the Micca RB42, JBL Stage A120, etc.
Just connected these (got them based on your Saturday morning Q&A a couple weekends ago) and changed out my Moukey 20s on my desktop. For a few minutes, I felt like I was missing bass. Then...I played Paul Simon's "Late in the Evening" followed by "Redemption Song". And I was just grinning from ear to ear. "Three Little Birds" played right after, and wow, the bass went was all there - musical, bounce and happy. I was hearing these songs so differently. Because I use an adjustable standing desk, I'm definitely relying on the off-axis experience, and man, it's consistent. Nailed this one!
I've had these about a week, bought them bundled with the denon pma-600ne for what I would consider a bargain price. It's changed my life, they sound unbelievable
Where did you find the bundle?
@@aaronkon I'm in the UK so hope it's still relevant. Bought the bundle from Peter Tyson. Was £449, so not like dirt cheap but I was pleased. The amp retails at £369 generally and the Dalis are around £159 new so I was pleased all in for £449. They also gave speaker cable and extended warranty in the bundle.
I saw the Dalis go for £100 on ebay and home av direct have em for £129 ex demo. So there's further bargains to be had out there
The Spektor 2 is another affordable gem as well.
Slightly larger cabinet and slightly larger woofer - seems like a very good thing!
I have been thinking to get them as Atmos speakers... Front ceiling.
I confirm, i use them with smsl sa 300 for desktop use and music listing and they are pretty awesome. Great soundstage, they are very good with soft music, classic rock, blues ect.
I have been using Dali Spektor 2 for a week and I am very pleased with it. I definitely agree with you.
I am considering purchasing a Dali Spektor 1 with more suitable dimensions for my Desktop Computer in my office.
I laugh every time I hear the 1980's game show music for the intermissions. So kitschy it matches your sense of humor perfectly. LOL!
7:28 "Bass drum... kick drum, I hate that word."
The term' kick drum' is a layman's term hi-jacking the original term-- Kick. Kick is the first thing a sound engineer calls for when laying down a mix. All mixes are built around the bass drum which is the first sound captured as a foundation. Whether in the studio or 150' back at FOH position the engineer calls out "single shots Kick" No engineer says Kick Drum-- that's an audiophile term adopted to be in the know.
Fun fact: When I first starting mixing Reggae the singer said, "make the foot drum sit on my nose, mon" My response: "Yes mon, me the loudest soundman in the world... thief me a splif and me sound even louder!"
Bought this speakers few days ago and to my ear the bass mostly is there but it's laid back. You need to listen loud to get/hear more bass which is not my fav way of listening (higher frequencies then are too loud and fatiguing). I've EQued to bump the lows but still not there. I would recommend add sub to this speakers if you like music witch needs decent lows (or for movies and games).
The Dali Spektor 2 is much better speaker which don't need sub for music to my ear and is great all arounder, gives more excitment. If you have more space to get Spektor 2 this is my recommendation.
Thanks!
I should have seen your comment sooner. I bought the Spektor 1 based on this review but I will return them due to the lack of bass and exaggerated highs
I've had these speakers a couple of years, powered by my Marantz amp, these speakers are little miracles, they are punchy, precise and very musical... play 2112 and you'll be impressed... I play movies through them too in stereo... watched a Sergio Leone movie and the sound was really projected. If you are on a budget or just don't want to waste money try these... ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Greetings from Turkey, I have been using Dali Spektor 2 for a week and I am very pleased.
I am considering purchasing a Dali Spektor 1 with more suitable dimensions for my Desktop Computer in my office.
Thanks for the review.
Edit; My Dali Spektor 1 speaker arrived today. Naturally, I had the opportunity to compare it with Dali Spektor 2. Although Spektor 1 has a small cabinet and drivers, it sounds very good. Of course, it only comes close to the bass level of Spektor 2. But this doesn't make a huge difference. I recommend it to anyone who is looking for a stylish looking speaker that takes up little space on the desk or bookshelf and provides high quality sound. In short, Spektor 1 will please a normal user.
I paired Dali Spektor 1 with the Fosi Audio BT20A Class D amplifier on my computer in my office, and I use Dali Spektor 2 in my living room at home. I'm thinking of pairing it with a good amplifier in the future, what would you recommend?
I just bought these and an Aiyima A07 for my desktop. Replaced the EDIFIER 1700bt. For the first time in my life I m listening music the right way. 🔥
Ok. Just picked up a couple of these on account of you. Thanks so much for starters. Your channel is next level. Love it. I seriously had to check that my high end center was not on. These are impressive!
Hey man! Great review! One thing folks might want to try with Dali is face forward, no toe-in as if I remember, how they are designed. Granted, this could come down to listener preference but something with trying if you find them bright or a bit sparky!
Also - idea... audiophile pomade? We could sell it on the podcast? Get rich... Buy some Ferraris and ride off into the sunset?
If you have a problem with a bookshelf speaker sounding muddled to it's interacting with a shelf or whatever, turn it upside down. Lots of speakers are designed with the tweeted on the bottom. It works. Not joking.
Thanks for this review Randy! Followed your advice... Last week I bought a pair of these fellas for on my desk, and I really happy with them! Clear, detailed 'centered' sound, very enjoyable. Compared to my Q Acoustics 3050i's they are little bit 'clean' & analytic. But those 3050i's are quadruple the price of the Spektor's and ten times bigger. For this size and price (190 euro / 230 US Dollar with tax incl.) I rate this speakers 9 out of 10.
yeah. I love the Spektors
With a sense of humour like that, how are you not British?! Loved everything about your review. It has given me much confidence after ordering these today. Thanks!
I have the bigger brother Spektor 2! Awesome speakers for £199 ($276)! By the way, the manufacturer does recommend to ideally place them in front of the listener, not toed in.
Your introductions are hilarious
100% agree with the engagement stereos. Need to get my wife to pay up now....
Cheers. Looking forward to the Spektor 2 review 👍
Indeed they are great for a desk setup. In my case a home office deluxe desk. As I am limited due to a sloping wall and recently upgraded to a height adjustable table, everything needs to be very tiny that is close to the slope. I previously used Monitor Audio Bronze BX2 on the desk (its a big desk). I tried the Dali Spector 1 and Q Acoustics Concept 20. At the time of writing, that is 150€ vs. 450€ here. I actually kept the Spector due to their perfect size and great sound. Of course the QA sound different (better?), and the Monitor Audio did as well, but as you also noticed, the Dali are a small miracle and perfect for my personal setup.
I think I'm doing the same
Man, just want to say that you bring some much-needed funny and smart knowing to these tough times.
We’re all asking Randy, how would these compare to the 11.2’s, the RB 61 II, Kef Q150, or the Emotiva B1+? Great review Randy!
That would make a great comparison video
These are a lot smaller a lot lot smaller than the others. They’re great for their size but don’t compete in a larger room with the others.
I live in a tiny house (or 'hoose' if you prefer) in Scotland, where we tend not to have very big rooms, and have been looking for a good sounding compact speaker to pair with a yet-to-be-bought Denon RCD-N11 mini system, and I think these might just fit the bill. Thanks for the great review!
I don't care what you compare, just compare! Perfect idea for content; your approach in explaining is great with a dab of beginners info as well as in depth evaluations and explanation. Its never over my head and we get a reminder of some things. Thanks for doing with audio what I cannot afford to but want to
You should step up to Dali’s next speaker line. The Oberon’s - would love to get your thoughts on them! Keep up the good work! Just discovered your stuff a few months back and have been watching since. 🔊
Finally, a RUclipsr who tests a Dali speaker. I have no idea why so many HiFi RUclipsrs just ignore this interesting brand.
I'm hooked. They're really really good
@@cheapaudioman what I would find very exciting would be a comparison between klipsch r-51m, dali spector 1 and dali spektor 2 with focus on a desktop use. All are close in price and I can't decide yet what to buy.
Dali is awesome. I use the Dali Oberon 1 btw. The over dimensioned tweeters are not very critical in placement height nor with, have great soundstage near field AND IN a room combined with for example 2 small emotiva subs.
I have the Oberon. But this week i will order the Oberon 1 for my small room. Great speakers!
Echoing what Erik said... Would be great to see a nearfield/desktop shootout with the Dali, the Micca RB42, JBL Stage A120, etc.
I am currently living in Europe, and saw some Dali wireless over ear headphones, bought them, and they were EXCELLENT. Dali make good products, they are a Danish company, so many are manufactured in the EU, some in China, but very good design. Excellent sound.
I'm using two sets as Atmos/heights speakers with my Yamaha RX-A2070 and I'm very happy with them (crossed at 90Hz cutoff)
totally agree that the ring should be reciprocated
Engagement system = Perfection CAM Approved
lovely speakers for nearfield/desktop use... i was amazed when i first fired them up :)
I tried them, really liked them. Not the most dynamic and somewhat laid back compared to what I am used to but I'd be very happy with these as well. Didn't try the Spektor 2 but guess they'd be better by size. Oberon 1s take that to the next level a bit but both provide good sound. Oberon vinyl wrap is premium, thick with texture. Didn't try Zensor series but some people say a bit brighter. Dalis are a seriously good speaker, at the top for under $400 budget. Kefs have more detail, a more forward sound. Out if the two I think I'd go with Dalis, next size up if nothing else for looks alone.
NOTE: 83 db...so they need a little power and don't expect party level sound but the size is great.
Got these little speakers to upgrade from Eltax Monitor III. Great for the little space I have under my TV.
They are so much clearer in the treble compared to my former speakers. Bass is less present but still enjoyable. Plus they are so cute ! Smaller but quite an upgrade for my ears.
Got them for 80€ shipped in second hand 😮
i think good bookshelf speakers shouldn't have a problem doing the disappearing act, but it will depend highly on the recording. old jazz recordings don't help them a lot because back then the recording process kind of stuck sounds in one channel or the other, not a lot of mixing and other tricks that recording studios learned to do later.
Great! 🙌🏻 Dali spektor 1 vs Jamo s803. which do you think is better for a small room?
Finally, a channel that reviews truly affordable equipment. Got tired of clicking on videos of "affordable" $3000 boring silver box amplifier reviews.
Thanks Randy for another great review. Sounds like a cute little speaker punching outside its weight class.
Thanks! Really enjoy your reviews and ive been waiting for a Dali review :D i have the last generation of those called Zensor 1, with a Dali zensor 1 vokal center speaker. Music is just amazing on those speakers, so can imagine how great the spektors are. So thanks, and keep up the good work.
I have zensor1’s that have been relegated to surround duty’s since I got some triangle BR02’s. Similar but better!
I'm currently being divorced by my third wife, and really wish I'd thought of that rings/stereo system deal. If I'd upgraded each time, I could've been listening to Hegel or McIntosh gear by this point!
This channel is so rad. Would happily buy you a beer to chat audio stuff.
I tried the opticons and they made the LS50s sound shrill and plain bad. YMMV. These ones could indeed be a future rear speaker for me!
Very good review Randy, I consider Dali speakers to be excellent.
i was looking to start with all that vinyl stuff cause i really wanted to just be able to physically have the albums i love, and im was looking for a good -looking, well sounding speaker. this helped me a lot, thanks!
I think the opposite party should get a gift at least 3x the value ;)...Jeez, I still have my
Dali Piano Agile's from 2005. Heavy as hell but I love them to bits :). Keep up the good work CheapAsAudioMan :)
I am looking at the dali specktor 1 and 2 .
Which is best for desktop nearfield listening ?
I have an onkyo a9010 amplifier , ifi zen dac and a suca m1 tube buffer pre amp .
Thank you kindly
Spektor 1 👈
Bought a pair based on your recommendation, and it was good to be able to buy "locally" here in Denmark. They sound great. Thanks.
This makes me want to consider more stuff after settling on Wharfedale 11.2s. I have a return window until the 31st. haha
these are small small speaker. I'd say they're more neutral out of the bunch but these won't push nearly as much air as the others and may struggle in a bigger room. On a desktop or nearfield scenario then it's a more difficult discussion.
Again - for small desktop setup, you should check iloud micro monitors - you put them on microphone arm and they dont even take place on the desk.
A $200 speaker with an 83dB sensitivity is actually a $1000 speaker because it will take the difference in extra amplification to drive them.
I'd really like to see a discussion panel one day with you, Ron from NRD, Sean from Zero Fidelity, Steve Guttenberg, Thomas from Thomas & Stereo, and Jay from Next Best Thing Studio just talking shop. I think it would be hugely beneficial and hilarious.
About the only thing I could contribute in that conversation is the comedy relief.
@@cheapaudioman gtfoh man. You have a really fresh take on audio and since so much of it is subjective you would absolutely contribute to whatever discussion is being had.
Don't get me wrong, the humor really makes your channel fun but I watch because I value your opinion. I have some of the speakers you've reviewed/discussed and I don't disagree with much of anything you've said about them.
Also: getting Thomas on Between Two Speakers would be a f***in' riot.
@@cheapaudioman much needed!
sounds like an extremely positive review. But then I've never seen these speakers being mentioned in any top5/10 best budget speakers. Why is that? I'm asking since I've ordered them and wanted to know how they compare with the Elac
That intro and sponsor were "golden Jerry!". I love when a speaker sounds like it looks :) Another job well did RandALL! :)
Got these as I have very limited space in my home office and cannot squeeze anything bigger, very nice speakers, I run them through a smsl sa300 and I'm pretty satisfied, it's the ultimate compact combo
Currently swaying between these and the spektor 2. They're for a fairly small room so dont think the extra expense is worth it versus these? Unless anyone has other opinions?
Engagement Stereos - endorse 100%
I like this dude! He's funny and gets his message across simply and in and entertaining way. I have owned these speakers in a while and what he says is very accurate. And I think I have a similar duvet cover. Not sergio's for sure, but looks almost the same. :-D
You're good man, I like you.
Just Received Dali Spektor 1 Pair for my rear surround with my current front of DALI ZENSOR 3
I am Excited 👍
You answered all my doubts about this Spektor. Gonna buy this for Christmas and pair them with my Marantz.. Thanks Randy 🙏
10.3K subscribers! Outstanding Randy! Keep the train rolling!
Can you compare these to the Wharfdale Diamonds 11.1 for a desk setup? I know they are different sizes but they are the same price online currently. Also don't review the Spektor 2, review the Opticon 2 (mk1) instead please!!!! thanks for the content!
Hi.. How do they compete against Edifier s3000pro, people say its far better than its price and that they can compete with much more expensive speakers. I could be paying for the brand name more than sound quality with Dali i feel. I wanna make sure i pay for sound quality and not so much the brand name.. Example, you know "Supreme" clothing. Their Hoodies are not worth more than a 100$ hoodie but cost around 400$ and id like to save those 300$ for the same quality materials as the 100$ shirt/hoodie.
Hi there. Love love love the channel and your reviews. I'm really hoping u get a pair of dali ob1's to review.
congrats on how quickly your channel has grown. I'd love to see some turntable recommendations for us newbs. I finally decided the AT 120x was the right fit of budget and performance and its discontinued it seems. Give me a cheap audio man Turntable approach to early 2021.
It's happening soon. Been talking to Uturn and Fluance
Be interesting to see what you think of the B and W 607s. For me these are right at the top for speakers between £300-£250. Fairly low sensitivity (84db), but otherwise fantastic.
Loved the review as always. Thanks to your reviews, I got Edifier 1850 for my computer but now I needsomething for my Hi-Fi. I watched your other video qit q350, and I have to decide to go either with Dali Oberon 1 or KEF Q350 - to be paired with Marantz Melody 612 in a room 4mx4.5m (12'x15' ish). Price wise excatly the same, not a penny difference. What do you guys think?
Got these and they are phenomenally good.
Duvets are the stupidest thing! I have what I would consider the Wilson audio of bedding and I wouldn't dare put a duvet over my comforter. Heck, the duvet that I could put on the comforter cost half as much as the freaking comforter! Now back to the show!😉😝😇
I'm considering these for my bedroom. Dalis are great for the price.
My Oberon 5 floorstanders are an end point for me, considering they'll hopefully be with me for the next 30~40 years, €799 is cheap.
Randy, top. Keep up the good work. Enjoying every minute of your videos!
After your review I found a pair on Amazon open box for $160, figured that was too good to pass up for my computer desk. Thanks!
I bought the 2 because of u cheapaudioman! Were on sale here
"au Québec" @500cdn.... 😲💥🌟
Si tiny, so clear powerful and complete sounding. Thx⛩️
Sailing the Seas of cheese by Primus.
Great album to test speakers!!!
I just ordered them for on my desk to replace my computer speakers. They are more affordable in Europe than in the US. I will pair them with an SMSL SA300. Thank you for the recommendation.
How are you enjoying them?
@@timc_2433 They're great.
Randy, great review - thanks for the honest assessment. One other question for you - is that "Prince Albert" in the can, sitting on the shelf over your left shoulder?
Well, dog gone it - let him out!
😂😂😂 Your "openers!"😂😂😂
You are a Legend!! I love your way of explaining things.
A question :
Can I mount them on Wall as Surround Rear Speakers with Dali Oberon 3's. Confused between the Spektor 1's and ELAC DOW4.2 and Polk Audio OWM3.
LOL, Audio engagagement.. I Iove your Mexa-mug. Hey have not seen any of your videos talking about automatic-room-correction, id like to know what are the cheap versions how they compare to Onkyo's, Pioner's, Yamaha's, NAND's etc etc. or at least your opinion about them.
Hey cheapauduodude, how do you review these or any speakers without noticing, or failing to mention the overal tonal balance of the speakers? (wich in this case is spooned out in the middle and bright on top)
It's nice to know how you liked the bass, mdrange and treble individually, and how they sounded on this song or that, but you don't convey their overall tonal balance top to bottom, wich is fundemental to getting a useful sense of what they actually sound like from someones description. 🙄
spektor 1 or the sony css5s ? your thoughts?
That intro though , great stuff :)
Maybe the best advertise reading ever.
Have you done a comparison yet between the Elac Unifi 52 and the KEF Q150? I think a coaxial shootout would be cool. If you have them both. I don't think a coaxial speaker shootout should cost more than three taxidermy horseshoe bats on Ebay.
nice. The elacs are quite a bit better than the Q's. Q's aren't bad though at all. q's are south of neutral for me.
You will really need a sub with these speakers imo, there is no low end whatsoever, the sound otherwise is fine
Great job again! Think you would like the little more expensive Dali as well. Try to get the Oberon 1 or even better the 3 it’s next class up in the line.
Randy, you need to try out the song "To Rich For My Blood" by Patricia Barber from her 1994 album "Cafe Blue" Awesome bass and incredible range in the song. It is really low and also really high. It will stress a speaker system and give you an idea of the limits of your system.
Just started getting into HiFi again. Gonna try to find a pair of these locally and hook 'em up with Randy's recommended Aiyima T9 DAC/Amp......... let see how we get on..
Audio equipment should not cost as much as an engagement ring....
Thanks for another review Randy.
I have the Spektor 2 with a sub on my second system, I totally love them. Bought last summer for 198€, a real bargain. Now they seem to cost more though...
I really want to get a pair.
Love the channel. If you love these, why didn't they make the recommended speakers list?
Great review! I am buying these tomorrow. :)