Related videos: Danny's original call out video: ruclips.net/video/8GVzN0_TCaM/видео.html My Response video: ruclips.net/video/zxlUYfpxNMY/видео.html Initial impression of XLS encore and cables: ruclips.net/video/qz7hY2J3Blw/видео.html 0:00 intro 0:59 Response to CALL OUT videos 7:29 Proof I am not here to DISCREDIT Danny
So glad to see this and, as a huge fan of Danny's and being new to your channel I'm Really looking forward to get your reactions to visiting Danny's place. Just keep an open mind and willing to be pleasantly surprised, what's to lose, right?
Jay...you are doing useful work. As an old engineer, I like your process. I don't question your motives nor those of GR Research. Rather, I've been searching diligently for a convenient, stand-mounted speaker & audio system to live with in retirement. Your work is helping!
hi have you looked into speakers like the powered KEFs? their a speaker a net work server lots of power very flexible/fun with many input/outputs . no amp needed.
Jay! Glad to hear y’all are coming down to Texas, we are happy to have ya! I live in Dallas and am happy to help with any logistical support you need while here, restaurant recs, where to stay, what to do, or if y’all need a ride from the airport to Danny’s place (it’s a solid 2.5 hour drive from DFW). Randy, the Cheap Audio Man, also lives in the Dallas area and could be a cool collaboration. Anyway, happy to help! Just let me know!
I bought the GR Research crossover upgrade for my Dynaudio Special 40 speakers. What a revelation! So much more clear and insightful. Impossible to miss the improvement and cheap too.
So Dynaudio with their Jupiter Measurement Lab missed something only 'ol Danny could find with his trusty mic? Granted, you may still prefer his, but those speakers sound exactly like Dynaudio wanted them to sound.
@@barrybrennan2135 I can tell you the difference. I also have had Danny upgrades. When you use higher end components like higher grade capacitors, the measurements don't change and in fact they both meet the rating of that component. The difference is when you actually listen. The 'openess" and "clarity" that it creates isn't necessarily captured on typical measurements. I can 1000% tell you it may measure the same but it does sound different.
@@barrybrennan2135 I call bullshit on that. Pardon. I really don’t mean that in a snarky way. All companies build to cost. They are a business. Of course Danny is a business as well, so I take his stuff with a grain of salt. I didn’t have to go to Danny to make ‘ improvements’ to my $4k speakers. To keep the ‘sound’ the manufacture intended, measure the original components to a T. That is measure the DCR and ESR for every component. Better capacitors even make quite a difference. I replaced an electrolytic in the woofer section with a good Mundorf cap and the improvement is very noticeable. Hope you didn’t take that the wrong way. Text is the worst medium for communication. Cheers
From what I understand, Dynaudio uses first order crossovers in all their speakers. Did the crossover upgrade from GR stay with first order, or did he change it to something else?
@@barrybrennan2135 You hit the nail right on the head with that one. Danny doesn't even have the Saturn Measurement Lab, he's got the Neptune. What a travesty. He thinks its more musical because Neptune has the word tune in it. Its a miracle the guy can get out of bed in the morning without killing himself.
Very well done Jay. The maturity you and Danny are moving forward with reminds me of this quote: “Assume that the person you are listening to might know something you don’t.” Dr. Jordan Peterson
Thank you so much for this. Not because of one outcome or another, but demonstrating what it is to be a reasonable honest human being. Kudos to you. Thank you.
Having heard the NX-Tremes, and having spent time with or owned flagship Altec, JBL, Infinity, Klipsch, Wilson, Devore, Magnepan, Acoustat, et al, I think, at the very least, you will come away from your visit saying a door has been opened. You may not say Danny's big guns are the best you've heard, or the most pleasing to your ear, but I have a very strong feeling you'll feel like you've experienced a totally new dimension to music reproduction. And in a very positive context.
Jay, this is progressing exactly as I though it would from both you and Danny's integrity, and passion for Audio. Clearly, you have proven in the past, that you opinions are not biased, or financial motivated. I have heard your comments on component after component to be straight forward, and direct to the best interests of your listeners. I also can see Danny believes in you also. And sees you as part of the future of High End Audio. Thusly, he wants to expose you to some theories and approaches that will broaden you experiences. Excellent...
I've built 5 sets of GR research speakers. I absolutely am not a GR fan boy - I disagree with Danny on quite a few things. I especially didn't care for the condescending, snide way that he handled people he disagrees with. You can see my comments on his videos which back me up on that. However, at the end of the day his speakers designs are simply fantastic. I have also spent many hours on the phone with him and can tell you he's a genuinely nice guy with a passion for audio - he has just, on occasion, let his emotions get the better of him.
I'm personally proud of you Jay, you could have very well said forget this and forget Danny, but you are going to see and see if there is something to learn. The video that you are going to make afterward will be eye-opening for sure because you were a critic, not necessarily of his products, but his approach. With your experience of setting up the extremely expensive systems on a regular basis, this will be not jaw-dropping for you particularly, but an incite to your audience. Do I think Danny could have done a better job with his initial approach, yes, I think it could have been an open invitation with you and the others by phone with the invitation mad and a video once all of you arrived and what you thought. We have to stop getting angry when people don't like the brand that we have, it's just stuff and those people have opinions as well, it is not a personal attack on you as a person. The manufacturers don't know you and don't care about you as a person. They just want you to buy their products. Danny realized the error of his ways and he has come out and apologized for it. This is a nitch hobby and a male-dominated one at that, we can't afford to make enemies at the youtube level if we want this great hobby to survive and as Andrew Robinson has always said, "The only person that has to like your system is you". I hope you have a great time there Jay.
Have a safe trip to Texas! It's good to be a skeptic. I am, especially when it comes to audio and you read about how wonderful it is. As for cable naysayers, I was one too until I had the chance to actually try different cables. I have to hear a difference. Not someone else. Some cables sound different, some I could not tell any difference. I enjoy both your channels.
You should bring Amir from ASR with you to moderate. In all seriousness, Amir could use a trip to see Danny and just report on some listening impressions.
I think it is great that you are going there. I’d love to see you and Ron from NRD do a podcast like show. That would be cool to see that interaction. Like your approach to audio so keep up the good work.
Great stuff Jay! I love your channel and the way you are honest and open about everything you come in contact with. I also like the things Danny does and you can clearly see that you both are genuine and passionate about audiophile stuff and music. I also own the GR research cables which did make a difference and also the CSS audio Criton 1TD-X you were very passionate about. I can tell from my own experience that both you and Danny were right. At least in my opinion and everybody can disagree. I don't mind I love good sounding music. Keep it up! I'll keep watching yours and Danny's channel and many more (Thomas and stereo, Zero fidelity, New Record Day, Cheap Audio Man, and more) Love!
Yes, what you are doing is "fun". It is also very educational. There are so many audio products "out there" that I would never have learned about if not for you. I may have heard of them but as with your RUclips channel, I "learned" more about their sound characteristics. Yes, I do get that there is always the subjective element but with your presentations I find that not to be an issue. Danny, on the other hand, I find to be of a much different "value" (to me) when it comes to the "audio-value" learning process. His focus is on speakers and their engineering. Now, because of both of you I've been able to get much closer to my final decision on which components I wish to purchase or build to make up my "next" audio system. I know what sound I want ... I am almost 72 and I've owned (and currently own) a lot of decent audio-stuff. My point herein is that through the offerings of yourself, Danny, Ron, Sean, AND Tarun (The British Audiophile).... I've had a lot of "fun", sparked interest and best of all: an alternate guidance source that just did not exist until all of you fine gentlemen came along via RUclips. I do look forward to your Texas "thing" with Danny.
Jay, you are going to have a good time with Danny down in TX! Hope this is the last reference you make to previous conflicting opinions, let’s get on to the helpful exchange of knowledge and shared experiences.
I like your attitude in this thing (and audio stuff in general). I thought you were generally quite complimentary to GR-Research's speakers, and especially the cables. Although I'm quite an 'objectivist' regarding audiophile cables and such, there's something to be said for allowing your own subjectivity sometimes and allowing yourself to just enjoy that stuff (if money allows). In the end it's all about the music listening experience, and there's a lot of things that don't objectively improve the sound but still make you enjoy your audio system more. It's just a nice feeling that your cables look great and are intricately made I guess. Heck, there are even things that are objectively bad for accuracy, but are also factually more enjoyable to many people (vinyl springs to mind).
Glad to see that you are planning on going to GR in Texas. Being in the same room, listening to the same system at the same time should be interesting. I would recommend that you wait until after the summer heat has passed however. Maybe take a pair of track shoes with you and do a few morning runs with Danny. You look like you have youth on your side but I get the impression that Danny is a pretty serious runner. Have fun.
Great Video, I see the makings of an and honest and growing audiophile that the younger generation can count on. Great to see you growing and I look forward to what's next on your journey.
@@@Jay - This might sound stupid at first - but please consider filming your journey to Danny's - Other than digging into the truth of things, this "call-out" and responses - yes, has been drama - however, this drama in many ways has been good and entertaining. It reminds me of the days when many cities had two or three hifi shops and customers would drive between them to hear the gear they were considering. So, sharing highlights of your trip is reminiscent of the journeys folks took in their quest for great gear. Thanks
Good on you man, I’m a fan of Danny’s channel and product’s and since the drama I have discovered your channel and become a fan of your channel. It’s good for everyone to see you guys finding common ground 👍
I think there’s room for all! I like GR Research but I don’t put him on a pedestal. Steve Gutenberg came up with a very interesting comment in late August when he was discussing 10 reasons you might be an audiophile. He commented that after listening to other hifi sets, possibly ‘far better’ ones, we nearly always come back home and find we prefer our own! I think this is connected with the fact that our brains are so adaptable we can come to love the sound of almost any reasonably competent setup providing it hasn’t got obvious flaws like hums or distortion. Also, we have probably spent years honing our own system to our own taste and our own ears and our own listening environment. So where does this put the perfectionist GR Research or Audio Science Review? Is there an absolute ‘good sound’? I don’t think so. I think there probably are a few people with the right ears and the right training to appreciate these extreme subtleties but not for most of us!
You measured the cables from Danny and from Alibaba. Danny modifies his cables with a simple hollow tube in-between the strands of the cable as the Alibaba cables don't have that tube. That's why Danny's cables are thicker. I'm curious if you inserted a hollow tube in the Alibaba tubes if that would make the difference you heard? Just a thought
It's rope not a tube. Dielectric properties of the material do matter somewhat but the main advantage of any kind of insert is that it forces the conductors to cross each other at 90 degrees which minimizes their interaction. Without the insert they're closer to parallel, which is bad.
Jay As you say everyone comes from different places with different experiences, different listening experiences, knowledge bases, and often viewers sometimes interpret comments by presenters in subtle ways that may not always be 100% accurate with the intentions of the presenters. I think there are always a place in the audio world for contrasting ideas, ideology, and viewpoints.
I believe your initial video on the GR Research XLS Encore was fair and honest. You clearly displayed your ability to be fair and open minded. I will admit that I own a pair of XLS Encores and truly enjoy the sound I get from Danny's speakers. I took no offense to the comment about the mid/bass driver being cheap. It is compared to many drivers in the market today. What matters to most of us who purchase speakers is how they sound. I really do not care if the driver is cheap or inexpensive as long as the sound is satisfying and the XLS Encore delivers. I for one appreciate your honesty and willingness to visit Danny in Texas. I even subscribed to your channel after the XLS Encore video because of your honesty and have truly enjoyed many of your videos now that I am subscribed. We need more young people, like yourself, willing to be objective and let the products speak for themselves. Good job Jay!
I'm very excited about this. I understand, but don't completely understand people's take on danny. Yes he comes of elitist. But does that make him wrong? I think he just won a fight between him and amir, explained his position intelligently when amir comes off condescending (just like Danny does at times). Why does Danny get attacked for upgraded parts so much when we all watch other reviewers never question css audios $400 cross over upgrade?
If Amir is condescending then that is a noble title to have in view of having to deal with all of these snake oil peddlers and their silly cables, fuses, ground boxes and connectors. There are too many of these scammers out there profiting out of the naive, gullible and weak minded ! The legendary late John Dunlavy used to challenge them all of the time. He'd often allow people to bring their cables to his labs and he would never connect them up in his system but they still believed there was a difference in the sound :D LOL
Good for you for going. He does not say he makes "the Best" He does not say he has "the Best" system. He says, he is inviting to start a dialog and hear a system that provides a basis for a common language. I look forward to your report. I hope you have a good experience.
My thinking is that audio is, for most, a hobby. In my past, I worked as a studio and live sound engineer, so I have experience with high spec equipment, measurement and setup. That said, at home, it’s nice to simply listen to music. There are as many types of gear as listeners. As a recording artist myself, my hope is that people hear music on good systems as opposed to small Bluetooth speakers or inexpensive earbuds. Artists put a lot of effort into their recordings. So anyway to advocate putting together a good sounding system, regardless of price, is worth it. Besides, stuffy audiophiles aren’t fun to watch and don’t do a lot to grow the hobby.
Hi Jay, I can very much relate to your Journey, I started audio in the 90s and became a Retailer, Installer and Tuner for great brands until my move here in the US. Through my journey I learned to value everything that makes up the Audio System including upgrading parts inside very expensive Gear. I am happy everyone moving on and this will be positive for all viewers, Danny and You. I am happy too that you liked the speaker. Frederick
Rarely have I come across an audio reviewer as well spoken as you. I think going to meet Danny will be an interesting experience to say the least. I watch a lot of reviewers and I "got' Danny's point re reviewers right away. Not sure if you felt you were being lumped in w his 'targets' but I highly doubt it. Look forward to the trip video!
I like being right about stuff, but I also love being wrong, cause I get to learn something. A life where I am right about everything would be incredibly boring. I am a fan of both you guys, and am glad that you guys seem to be communicating more amicably.
Jay, I hope when you do your blind A-B test you'll compare the CSS Criton 1TD or 1TD to the GR Research XLS Encore. I'm very interested in both and would like your opinion on which you think is a better speaker, I'm sure others have the same question.
I own both with my builds and comments are on you tube. And the Elac Unifi 2.0s. IMO, neither is better or none of the three are better. They are three great speakers but different. Do I have a favorite, yes. But that is just me, for my music, for my listing style, for my room, for my equipment, for my ears etc. It's really about YOUR preferences not Jay's.
I have to say, the encore was the best bookshelf speakers I've heard (in my room) other than the revel performa m106 being 2nd, and I preferred the kef q350 maybe a little more than those, and over the ls50 metas. What I'm not a fan of is elac speakers, I gave em a chance and had the 6.2 and the were garbage, literally top 5 worst speaker I've ever heard, tweeters "ok", the cabs and woofer and port design was terrible, I was really disappointed after hearing the hype. No elac for me, but yes, the encores are really that good, the q350 can come pretty close to it and dig deeper, but that's a tough shootout for me.
(Almost) nobody’s listening space is perfect. Many of us listen while walking around and performing other activities in our listening area. Music must sound realistic and enjoyable where we exist. That is reality.
Nothing wrong with being skeptical, most things are not what they appear to be, including the shape of the planet. Great job clarifying your intent, not that I personally thought you had a biased agenda. I think your opinions are honest, straightforward, and accurate. In fact, I made a leap of faith and purchased one of the speakers you recommended, and couldn't be happier.
Wow. People go a tad overboard based on “feelings” way too often which really supports all the data on mind control tactics and how using peoples feelings to get them to do or say something actually works.
Hey buddy. I like your way of thinking. You have some really good points. Tbh, I prefer the franco sonus faber era over todays sf. I'm not a fan of the tweeter. It just seems like it's trying to do much. The kef reference speakers don't look great but a pretty good to. But I enjoy the fact that you are very neutral with your opinions and reviews which I really appreciate. It's nice to see normal people in the industry. I love hifi because it's my passion. Honestly though, once you get into the realm of horns...now that's a different ball game all together...and yes some are great and some aren't. Just keep on doing what you are doing. Keep up the good work. It's very hard finding "normal" people in the audiophile world
I like the fact that you guys are getting together to clear things up. This isn't really about who is better or smarter. You come from different ends of the hobby. I hope you each lean and make gains from each other. The more knowledgeable the better both channels will be. I personally subscribe to both channels. If you each gain, so do we. If we aren't open minded then we never have the ability to improve.
Texas travel should be fun, try the BBQ. But aside from all that. People will probably want a CSS/ Buchardts / Encore comparo. I gather the Encore's Bass isn't as much as the other two but since it costs less it may be the case that you take any money you save and put it towards a subwoofer.
Cool man! Have fun in Texas!! I hope you may consider bringing the Critons or another reference speaker with you to directly compare. You are going to be A - B against other GR Research speakers. I feel this may be a possible regret afterwards. Either way I'm sure you are good to go.
Not fun to travel with Speakers but it would be fascinating to bring a pair and have a 2 step Upgrade Review Session. First Test Tube Connectors alone. Second Test to be performed w a Crossover Upgrade.
I really hope this is an elaborate marketing ploy for the both of you. The audio world is too small for drama and both your opinions & content are incredibly important for a vibrant discourse on what we all love. Thanks for your work!
Man this is exhausting, where you have to explain everything. I watched your initial impression of the GR's speakers and thought it was informative. That was my take away. Didn't care about the nit picking on the comments. In fact, I'm now more interest in GR's speakers. @Jay, while you're at Danny's, would you take a look at their power cables? Would love to hear your feedback on those.
You have to eat the Kolaches, and everything else there btw. Texans are the nicest people, also depending on the city, be prepared to see more state flags than you have ever seen in your life.
You will have a great time with Danny and you will get a Big Texas Welcome! I do use his cross overs and they have, to me, a good sound signature that is to my liking. You have a Great Channel and I like how you approach each speaker or accessories that come into your studio. Thank you for your long long days to make content! 👍
Re: room, a reviewer would ideally listen to the product in a variety of rooms that are sub-optimal so that he could report what potential buyers might hear in their own sub-optimal rooms. I like to know what it sounds like in a room that represents some approximation of an ideal room, but that isn't as relevant to most potential buyers as what the product sounds like under more realistic listening conditions.
As a fan of GR Research, I don't really think it's about winning, so you can give us a win, but I'd rather not take it, I'd rather just hear open an open dialogue, and I'm glad to see that it's happening!
So four months or so later, they Jay ever visit GR Research? If yes, I'd really like to know what were his reactions to Danny's BEST stand mount speakers? How do they compare, across all performance parameters, with some of the very best stand mount models reviewed at Stereophile and enjoythemusic?
Educating yourself for better or worse is ALWAYS a good thing...its how we grow as human beings. And all commercially available products should be tested in a similar environment to that in which they will be used...period!
Jay: Bravo for keeping an open mind in a situation that so many would have become defensive over. There's nothing wrong with being skeptical about a manufacturer's claims. Whether it be claims that speaker cable "A" sounds objectively better than speaker cable "B" or the quality of what is essentially a copper sleeve connector. Test them and find out. If the manufacturer is honest then their claims well be proven in the testing. The fact that you made this video speaks volumes about your character. I look forward to more of your reviews.
Well done. Good luck with the trip to see Danny. A new set of possibilities lay before you & the community. By the way, your creative formulations of common idioms is amusing & endearing.
I have built the XLS Encores and I watched you review of them and I felt that you were quite fare with them. In fact I had the same first impressions of them when I opened the box of parts. I was really shocked by the cheep construction of the drivers. But the flat pack is top notch! Just for a compression one of the other speakers I have built are the HiVi3.1A, which uses Swan drivers at cost $300 us (includes everything needed). These drivers are much better quality then GR drivers but I ended up having to tweak the crossovers because the tweeter is way too hot. They do have better base then the XLS but over all the the XLS has better sound stage and much more detail then the HiVi3.1A. Sure this really is not a fare comparison because the HiVi3.1A has a 3" domed mid range driver but the point is,,,, even though the drivers in the XLS look cheep they preform like more expensive drives. In the end I can listen to the XLS all day but I can't do the same with the HiVi3.1A. So like you said it's not so much the drivers but it's how they are implemented. A project I want to do it to get another set of the HiVi3.1A and build them with a few mods to see if I can get better clarity and detail out of them. I think the drivers have it in them I just think that the way the crossover is implemented and the parts used is holding it back. HiVi also make a 2 way (HiVi2,1A) for about $240 usd and that includes everything to build them. They are really a great buy for the $$ and a fun first step into the DIY. Also the Overnight Sensations ($150 to 200) is another great first step into DIY speakers and for a small speaker they have a big sound with really good sound stage.
Experience isn't everything. There are many individuals in the world who just start out at something and are just naturally gifted and are better at that thing than individuals who have spent 60+ years doing absolutely nothing but that one specific thing. There are many individuals like this. Being competent doesn't mean that you actually know what your doing. As in Danny.
Since you're coming to Texas, you should see if you can do a tour of the Schiit facility, since they moved down here. That would be an interesting tour.
Love this! I’m not a GR fanboy, but I was alarmed by your response to the callout video he did. This whole journey couldn’t have worked out better. I have gained a lot of respect for both you and Danny watching this play out. Can’t wait to hear your findings from your review and trip, both positive and negative 💪🏼
Related videos:
Danny's original call out video: ruclips.net/video/8GVzN0_TCaM/видео.html
My Response video: ruclips.net/video/zxlUYfpxNMY/видео.html
Initial impression of XLS encore and cables: ruclips.net/video/qz7hY2J3Blw/видео.html
0:00 intro
0:59 Response to CALL OUT videos
7:29 Proof I am not here to DISCREDIT Danny
So glad to see this and, as a huge fan of Danny's and being new to your channel I'm Really looking forward to get your reactions to visiting Danny's place. Just keep an open mind and willing to be pleasantly surprised, what's to lose, right?
Jay...you are doing useful work. As an old engineer, I like your process. I don't question your motives nor those of GR Research. Rather, I've been searching diligently for a convenient, stand-mounted speaker & audio system to live with in retirement. Your work is helping!
Criton CSS TD1-X speakers. Check them out. No affiliation.
hi have you looked into speakers like the powered KEFs? their a speaker a net work server lots of power very flexible/fun with many input/outputs . no amp needed.
Very mature response. Glad you two finally realized it's only hi-fi.
Spot on. It’s so much better when it’s civil.
@Memer Dreamer Heads then!
Ya know Jay, your one of the people I like the most on RUclips. Straight forward, no crap, to the point. You would make a good friend.
Jay! Glad to hear y’all are coming down to Texas, we are happy to have ya! I live in Dallas and am happy to help with any logistical support you need while here, restaurant recs, where to stay, what to do, or if y’all need a ride from the airport to Danny’s place (it’s a solid 2.5 hour drive from DFW).
Randy, the Cheap Audio Man, also lives in the Dallas area and could be a cool collaboration.
Anyway, happy to help! Just let me know!
I bought the GR Research crossover upgrade for my Dynaudio Special 40 speakers. What a revelation! So much more clear and insightful. Impossible to miss the improvement and cheap too.
So Dynaudio with their Jupiter Measurement Lab missed something only 'ol Danny could find with his trusty mic? Granted, you may still prefer his, but those speakers sound exactly like Dynaudio wanted them to sound.
@@barrybrennan2135 I can tell you the difference. I also have had Danny upgrades. When you use higher end components like higher grade capacitors, the measurements don't change and in fact they both meet the rating of that component. The difference is when you actually listen. The 'openess" and "clarity" that it creates isn't necessarily captured on typical measurements. I can 1000% tell you it may measure the same but it does sound different.
@@barrybrennan2135 I call bullshit on that. Pardon. I really don’t mean that in a snarky way.
All companies build to cost. They are a business. Of course Danny is a business as well, so I take his stuff with a grain of salt.
I didn’t have to go to Danny to make ‘ improvements’ to my $4k speakers.
To keep the ‘sound’ the manufacture intended, measure the original components to a T. That is measure the DCR and ESR for every component.
Better capacitors even make quite a difference. I replaced an electrolytic in the woofer section with a good Mundorf cap and the improvement is very noticeable.
Hope you didn’t take that the wrong way. Text is the worst medium for communication.
Cheers
From what I understand, Dynaudio uses first order crossovers in all their speakers. Did the crossover upgrade from GR stay with first order, or did he change it to something else?
@@barrybrennan2135 You hit the nail right on the head with that one. Danny doesn't even have the Saturn Measurement Lab, he's got the Neptune. What a travesty. He thinks its more musical because Neptune has the word tune in it. Its a miracle the guy can get out of bed in the morning without killing himself.
Very well done Jay. The maturity you and Danny are moving forward with reminds me of this quote: “Assume that the person you are listening to might know something you don’t.” Dr. Jordan Peterson
yep. if you do that constantly you might grow... you know that thing we are all inevitable here to do...lol
Thank you so much for this. Not because of one outcome or another, but demonstrating what it is to be a reasonable honest human being. Kudos to you.
Thank you.
Having heard the NX-Tremes, and having spent time with or owned flagship Altec, JBL, Infinity, Klipsch, Wilson, Devore, Magnepan, Acoustat, et al, I think, at the very least, you will come away from your visit saying a door has been opened. You may not say Danny's big guns are the best you've heard, or the most pleasing to your ear, but I have a very strong feeling you'll feel like you've experienced a totally new dimension to music reproduction. And in a very positive context.
Jay, this is progressing exactly as I though it would from both you and Danny's integrity, and passion for Audio. Clearly, you have proven in the past, that you opinions are not biased, or financial motivated. I have heard your comments on component after component to be straight forward, and direct to the best interests of your listeners. I also can see Danny believes in you also. And sees you as part of the future of High End Audio. Thusly, he wants to expose you to some theories and approaches that will broaden you experiences. Excellent...
Well said!
Well said
I've built 5 sets of GR research speakers. I absolutely am not a GR fan boy - I disagree with Danny on quite a few things. I especially didn't care for the condescending, snide way that he handled people he disagrees with. You can see my comments on his videos which back me up on that. However, at the end of the day his speakers designs are simply fantastic. I have also spent many hours on the phone with him and can tell you he's a genuinely nice guy with a passion for audio - he has just, on occasion, let his emotions get the better of him.
I like your style and open mindedness. That's why I trust your opinion as a reviewer.
This kind of developing conversation between both of you on the channels makes it much more interesting to watch. It’s like 1+1=3 true synergy.
Awesome. I'm glad you're going to visit Danny! Can't wait to hear about the trip
A Korean/Canadian trying to impersonate a Texan was hilarious.
😆 I thought it was pretty darn close
I'm personally proud of you Jay, you could have very well said forget this and forget Danny, but you are going to see and see if there is something to learn. The video that you are going to make afterward will be eye-opening for sure because you were a critic, not necessarily of his products, but his approach. With your experience of setting up the extremely expensive systems on a regular basis, this will be not jaw-dropping for you particularly, but an incite to your audience.
Do I think Danny could have done a better job with his initial approach, yes, I think it could have been an open invitation with you and the others by phone with the invitation mad and a video once all of you arrived and what you thought. We have to stop getting angry when people don't like the brand that we have, it's just stuff and those people have opinions as well, it is not a personal attack on you as a person. The manufacturers don't know you and don't care about you as a person. They just want you to buy their products.
Danny realized the error of his ways and he has come out and apologized for it. This is a nitch hobby and a male-dominated one at that, we can't afford to make enemies at the youtube level if we want this great hobby to survive and as Andrew Robinson has always said, "The only person that has to like your system is you". I hope you have a great time there Jay.
Have a safe trip to Texas! It's good to be a skeptic. I am, especially when it comes to audio and you read about how wonderful it is. As for cable naysayers, I was one too until I had the chance to actually try different cables. I have to hear a difference. Not someone else. Some cables sound different, some I could not tell any difference.
I enjoy both your channels.
You should bring Amir from ASR with you to moderate. In all seriousness, Amir could use a trip to see Danny and just report on some listening impressions.
Amir would turn around at the driveway.
I think it is great that you are going there. I’d love to see you and Ron from NRD do a podcast like show. That would be cool to see that interaction. Like your approach to audio so keep up the good work.
Great stuff Jay! I love your channel and the way you are honest and open about everything you come in contact with. I also like the things Danny does and you can clearly see that you both are genuine and passionate about audiophile stuff and music. I also own the GR research cables which did make a difference and also the CSS audio Criton 1TD-X you were very passionate about. I can tell from my own experience that both you and Danny were right. At least in my opinion and everybody can disagree. I don't mind I love good sounding music. Keep it up! I'll keep watching yours and Danny's channel and many more (Thomas and stereo, Zero fidelity, New Record Day, Cheap Audio Man, and more) Love!
Mmmmm.... tube connectors and Texas BBQ!!!! Hope you have a great time, Jay!
I never felt like you had any "agenda" behind any of your videos. You're one of the very few trustworthy reviewers out there. Keep up the good work!!
Really excited to learn what all you and Danny do in Texas!
Proud of you for accepting the invitation.
Yes, what you are doing is "fun". It is also very educational. There are so many audio products
"out there" that I would never have learned about if not for you. I may have heard of them but
as with your RUclips channel, I "learned" more about their sound characteristics. Yes, I do get
that there is always the subjective element but with your presentations I find that not to be an
issue. Danny, on the other hand, I find to be of a much different "value" (to me) when it comes
to the "audio-value" learning process. His focus is on speakers and their engineering. Now, because
of both of you I've been able to get much closer to my final decision on which components I wish
to purchase or build to make up my "next" audio system. I know what sound I want ... I am almost
72 and I've owned (and currently own) a lot of decent audio-stuff. My point herein is that through
the offerings of yourself, Danny, Ron, Sean, AND Tarun (The British Audiophile).... I've had a lot
of "fun", sparked interest and best of all: an alternate guidance source that just did not exist until
all of you fine gentlemen came along via RUclips. I do look forward to your Texas "thing" with
Danny.
Jay, you are going to have a good time with Danny down in TX! Hope this is the last reference you make to previous conflicting opinions, let’s get on to the helpful exchange of knowledge and shared experiences.
I like your attitude in this thing (and audio stuff in general). I thought you were generally quite complimentary to GR-Research's speakers, and especially the cables. Although I'm quite an 'objectivist' regarding audiophile cables and such, there's something to be said for allowing your own subjectivity sometimes and allowing yourself to just enjoy that stuff (if money allows).
In the end it's all about the music listening experience, and there's a lot of things that don't objectively improve the sound but still make you enjoy your audio system more. It's just a nice feeling that your cables look great and are intricately made I guess.
Heck, there are even things that are objectively bad for accuracy, but are also factually more enjoyable to many people (vinyl springs to mind).
Make sure you bring a food taster with you to Texas.
I have learned so much from watching both you and Danny and look forward to your feedback from visiting GR Research.
Glad to see that you are planning on going to GR in Texas. Being in the same room, listening to the same system at the same time should be interesting. I would recommend that you wait until after the summer heat has passed however. Maybe take a pair of track shoes with you and do a few morning runs with Danny. You look like you have youth on your side but I get the impression that Danny is a pretty serious runner. Have fun.
Great Video, I see the makings of an and honest and growing audiophile that the younger generation can count on. Great to see you growing and I look forward to what's next on your journey.
Respect. Don't think anybody else has taken him up on it
Hey Jay, I'm looking forward to having here you once the time comes! 👍 Keep up the good work.
I can't speak highly enough of Jay. He knows this is not about "winning." He wants to further the truth and knowledge of audio.
@@@Jay - This might sound stupid at first - but please consider filming your journey to Danny's - Other than digging into the truth of things, this "call-out" and responses - yes, has been drama - however, this drama in many ways has been good and entertaining. It reminds me of the days when many cities had two or three hifi shops and customers would drive between them to hear the gear they were considering. So, sharing highlights of your trip is reminiscent of the journeys folks took in their quest for great gear. Thanks
Good dialogue and respectful interaction between two guys who know a lot and are passionate about the audio experience. 👍
Have a great time in Texas!
Good on you man, I’m a fan of Danny’s channel and product’s and since the drama I have discovered your channel and become a fan of your channel.
It’s good for everyone to see you guys finding common ground 👍
I think there’s room for all! I like GR Research but I don’t put him on a pedestal. Steve Gutenberg came up with a very interesting comment in late August when he was discussing 10 reasons you might be an audiophile. He commented that after listening to other hifi sets, possibly ‘far better’ ones, we nearly always come back home and find we prefer our own!
I think this is connected with the fact that our brains are so adaptable we can come to love the sound of almost any reasonably competent setup providing it hasn’t got obvious flaws like hums or distortion. Also, we have probably spent years honing our own system to our own taste and our own ears and our own listening environment.
So where does this put the perfectionist GR Research or Audio Science Review? Is there an absolute ‘good sound’? I don’t think so. I think there probably are a few people with the right ears and the right training to appreciate these extreme subtleties but not for most of us!
You measured the cables from Danny and from Alibaba. Danny modifies his cables with a simple hollow tube in-between the strands of the cable as the Alibaba cables don't have that tube. That's why Danny's cables are thicker. I'm curious if you inserted a hollow tube in the Alibaba tubes if that would make the difference you heard? Just a thought
It's a particular make and sized rope.
It's rope not a tube. Dielectric properties of the material do matter somewhat but the main advantage of any kind of insert is that it forces the conductors to cross each other at 90 degrees which minimizes their interaction. Without the insert they're closer to parallel, which is bad.
As Russell Peters says " Be a man, go to Texas " 😊
That should be a very insightful trip. I’m a fan of both of you!
Jay, Welcome to Texas. Hope you enjoy the stay but the 40 degrees Celsius days can be a bit uncomfortable. 😄
Love the meeting of the minds - looking forward to learning more from the both of you.
Jay As you say everyone comes from different places with different experiences, different listening experiences, knowledge bases, and often viewers sometimes interpret comments by presenters in subtle ways that may not always be 100% accurate with the intentions of the presenters. I think there are always a place in the audio world for contrasting ideas, ideology, and viewpoints.
I believe your initial video on the GR Research XLS Encore was fair and honest. You clearly displayed your ability to be fair and open minded. I will admit that I own a pair of XLS Encores and truly enjoy the sound I get from Danny's speakers. I took no offense to the comment about the mid/bass driver being cheap. It is compared to many drivers in the market today. What matters to most of us who purchase speakers is how they sound. I really do not care if the driver is cheap or inexpensive as long as the sound is satisfying and the XLS Encore delivers. I for one appreciate your honesty and willingness to visit Danny in Texas. I even subscribed to your channel after the XLS Encore video because of your honesty and have truly enjoyed many of your videos now that I am subscribed. We need more young people, like yourself, willing to be objective and let the products speak for themselves. Good job Jay!
Best start of a video this week - thanks, made me laugh.
I'm very excited about this. I understand, but don't completely understand people's take on danny. Yes he comes of elitist. But does that make him wrong? I think he just won a fight between him and amir, explained his position intelligently when amir comes off condescending (just like Danny does at times). Why does Danny get attacked for upgraded parts so much when we all watch other reviewers never question css audios $400 cross over upgrade?
He won a fight against Amir? How so?
Good point!
If Amir is condescending then that is a noble title to have in view of having to deal with all of these snake oil peddlers and their silly cables, fuses, ground boxes and connectors. There are too many of these scammers out there profiting out of the naive, gullible and weak minded ! The legendary late John Dunlavy used to challenge them all of the time. He'd often allow people to bring their cables to his labs and he would never connect them up in his system but they still believed there was a difference in the sound :D LOL
Good for you for going. He does not say he makes "the Best" He does not say he has "the Best" system. He says, he is inviting to start a dialog and hear a system that provides a basis for a common language. I look forward to your report. I hope you have a good experience.
My thinking is that audio is, for most, a hobby. In my past, I worked as a studio and live sound engineer, so I have experience with high spec equipment, measurement and setup. That said, at home, it’s nice to simply listen to music. There are as many types of gear as listeners. As a recording artist myself, my hope is that people hear music on good systems as opposed to small Bluetooth speakers or inexpensive earbuds. Artists put a lot of effort into their recordings. So anyway to advocate putting together a good sounding system, regardless of price, is worth it. Besides, stuffy audiophiles aren’t fun to watch and don’t do a lot to grow the hobby.
Molding works. Better parts work. They improve the sound of audio gear. Who was it that said, " I don't drive stock?
I m happy to see the drama come to an end.
Hi Jay, I can very much relate to your Journey, I started audio in the 90s and became a Retailer, Installer and Tuner for great brands until my move here in the US. Through my journey I learned to value everything that makes up the Audio System including upgrading parts inside very expensive Gear. I am happy everyone moving on and this will be positive for all viewers, Danny and You.
I am happy too that you liked the speaker.
Frederick
Hi! Should I use cable elevators with my Headphones?
If you the reviewer tells the truth about what you hear without bias then you are doing your job people like different sounds and looks
I think we're all looking forward to seeing the Jay and Danny lovefest video. 🙂
I’m predicting a long- term bromance. Well done!
This is much better Jay. Good job man. Glad you guys are being professional about this. I respect your honesty. 👍
Rarely have I come across an audio reviewer as well spoken as you. I think going to meet Danny will be an interesting experience to say the least. I watch a lot of reviewers and I "got' Danny's point re reviewers right away. Not sure if you felt you were being lumped in w his 'targets' but I highly doubt it. Look forward to the trip video!
I like being right about stuff, but I also love being wrong, cause I get to learn something. A life where I am right about everything would be incredibly boring. I am a fan of both you guys, and am glad that you guys seem to be communicating more amicably.
Jay, I hope when you do your blind A-B test you'll compare the CSS Criton 1TD or 1TD to the GR Research XLS Encore. I'm very interested in both and would like your opinion on which you think is a better speaker, I'm sure others have the same question.
That will end up being a regret if he doesn't do it.
He will only be listening to GR speakers to compare. In critical listening thats a problem
I own both with my builds and comments are on you tube. And the Elac Unifi 2.0s. IMO, neither is better or none of the three are better. They are three great speakers but different. Do I have a favorite, yes. But that is just me, for my music, for my listing style, for my room, for my equipment, for my ears etc. It's really about YOUR preferences not Jay's.
@@briansimmons5363 what do you favor between the three you listed?
I have to say, the encore was the best bookshelf speakers I've heard (in my room) other than the revel performa m106 being 2nd, and I preferred the kef q350 maybe a little more than those, and over the ls50 metas. What I'm not a fan of is elac speakers, I gave em a chance and had the 6.2 and the were garbage, literally top 5 worst speaker I've ever heard, tweeters "ok", the cabs and woofer and port design was terrible, I was really disappointed after hearing the hype. No elac for me, but yes, the encores are really that good, the q350 can come pretty close to it and dig deeper, but that's a tough shootout for me.
beware the shorts 😅
(Almost) nobody’s listening space is perfect. Many of us listen while walking around and performing other activities in our listening area. Music must sound realistic and enjoyable where we exist. That is reality.
The "Hey everybody" was actually pretty on point 😆
Yup - .. Any time you wish, let me know .. I'd be delighted to visit for the purpose of data / listening testing. Let me know.
Nothing wrong with being skeptical, most things are not what they appear to be, including the shape of the planet.
Great job clarifying your intent, not that I personally thought you had a biased agenda. I think your opinions are honest, straightforward, and accurate. In fact, I made a leap of faith and purchased one of the speakers you recommended, and couldn't be happier.
Can't wait to see the content you guys create in Texas! I have built a pair of GR-Research X-Statiks and they are phenomenal.
Wow. People go a tad overboard based on “feelings” way too often which really supports all the data on mind control tactics and how using peoples feelings to get them to do or say something actually works.
Hey buddy. I like your way of thinking. You have some really good points. Tbh, I prefer the franco sonus faber era over todays sf. I'm not a fan of the tweeter. It just seems like it's trying to do much. The kef reference speakers don't look great but a pretty good to. But I enjoy the fact that you are very neutral with your opinions and reviews which I really appreciate. It's nice to see normal people in the industry. I love hifi because it's my passion. Honestly though, once you get into the realm of horns...now that's a different ball game all together...and yes some are great and some aren't. Just keep on doing what you are doing. Keep up the good work. It's very hard finding "normal" people in the audiophile world
Stoked your going to Texas, it will be interesting content. Good video, great tone
Lovely Jay, just lovely! 😊👍
I like the fact that you guys are getting together to clear things up. This isn't really about who is better or smarter. You come from different ends of the hobby. I hope you each lean and make gains from each other. The more knowledgeable the better both channels will be. I personally subscribe to both channels. If you each gain, so do we. If we aren't open minded then we never have the ability to improve.
Texas travel should be fun, try the BBQ. But aside from all that.
People will probably want a CSS/ Buchardts / Encore comparo. I gather the Encore's Bass isn't as much as the other two but since it costs less it may be the case that you take any money you save and put it towards a subwoofer.
Cool man! Have fun in Texas!!
I hope you may consider bringing the Critons or another reference speaker with you to directly compare.
You are going to be A - B against other GR Research speakers. I feel this may be a possible regret afterwards. Either way I'm sure you are good to go.
Not fun to travel with Speakers but it would be fascinating to bring a pair and have a 2 step Upgrade Review Session. First Test Tube Connectors alone. Second Test to be performed w a Crossover Upgrade.
I really hope this is an elaborate marketing ploy for the both of you. The audio world is too small for drama and both your opinions & content are incredibly important for a vibrant discourse on what we all love. Thanks for your work!
Man this is exhausting, where you have to explain everything. I watched your initial impression of the GR's speakers and thought it was informative. That was my take away. Didn't care about the nit picking on the comments. In fact, I'm now more interest in GR's speakers.
@Jay, while you're at Danny's, would you take a look at their power cables? Would love to hear your feedback on those.
The world would be a much different place if people could agree to disagree.
I’m a fan of both of you guys,this is fantastic! It would be fun if you took a pair of speakers with you that you guys could upgrade together. 🔈👍🏻🇨🇦
Bring the encores 😜
You have to eat the Kolaches, and everything else there btw. Texans are the nicest people, also depending on the city, be prepared to see more state flags than you have ever seen in your life.
But do they say sorry for saying sorry too many times like us Canadians do? Lol
@@Jayiyagi No, you are still the champions, olympic gold level.
@@Jayiyagi for that you have to go to the Midwest. As a Wisconsin to Texas transplant I’m keeping the “sorry” strong down here.
@jay’s iyagi In your opinion is the Polk R200 on the level as the xls score?
Love the way you´re handling this, and I´m really enjoying it. A scholar and a gentleman.
You will have a great time with Danny and you will get a Big Texas Welcome! I do use his cross overs and they have, to me, a good sound signature that is to my liking. You have a Great Channel and I like how you approach each speaker or accessories that come into your studio. Thank you for your long long days to make content! 👍
Re: room, a reviewer would ideally listen to the product in a variety of rooms that are sub-optimal so that he could report what potential buyers might hear in their own sub-optimal rooms. I like to know what it sounds like in a room that represents some approximation of an ideal room, but that isn't as relevant to most potential buyers as what the product sounds like under more realistic listening conditions.
exactly one of my points and why we have other rooms to emulate a more non-ideal room as well
As a fan of GR Research, I don't really think it's about winning, so you can give us a win, but I'd rather not take it, I'd rather just hear open an open dialogue, and I'm glad to see that it's happening!
Dude, enjoy your trip-Danny's a nice guy!
So four months or so later, they Jay ever visit GR Research? If yes, I'd really like to know what were his reactions to Danny's BEST stand mount speakers? How do they compare, across all performance parameters, with some of the very best stand mount models reviewed at Stereophile and enjoythemusic?
Excellent !! Enjoy your trip to Texas.
Educating yourself for better or worse is ALWAYS a good thing...its how we grow as human beings.
And all commercially available products should be tested in a similar environment to that in which they will be used...period!
I'm glad your going! I would go in a heart beat
Take some speakers with you. We need more crossover upgrades 🤘
Jay: Bravo for keeping an open mind in a situation that so many would have become defensive over.
There's nothing wrong with being skeptical about a manufacturer's claims. Whether it be claims that speaker cable "A" sounds objectively better than speaker cable "B" or the quality of what is essentially a copper sleeve connector. Test them and find out. If the manufacturer is honest then their claims well be proven in the testing.
The fact that you made this video speaks volumes about your character. I look forward to more of your reviews.
Well done.
Good luck with
the trip to see Danny.
A new set of possibilities
lay before you & the community.
By the way, your creative formulations
of common idioms is amusing & endearing.
I have built the XLS Encores and I watched you review of them and I felt that you were quite fare with them. In fact I had the same first impressions of them when I opened the box of parts. I was really shocked by the cheep construction of the drivers. But the flat pack is top notch! Just for a compression one of the other speakers I have built are the HiVi3.1A, which uses Swan drivers at cost $300 us (includes everything needed). These drivers are much better quality then GR drivers but I ended up having to tweak the crossovers because the tweeter is way too hot. They do have better base then the XLS but over all the the XLS has better sound stage and much more detail then the HiVi3.1A. Sure this really is not a fare comparison because the HiVi3.1A has a 3" domed mid range driver but the point is,,,, even though the drivers in the XLS look cheep they preform like more expensive drives. In the end I can listen to the XLS all day but I can't do the same with the HiVi3.1A.
So like you said it's not so much the drivers but it's how they are implemented.
A project I want to do it to get another set of the HiVi3.1A and build them with a few mods to see if I can get better clarity and detail out of them. I think the drivers have it in them I just think that the way the crossover is implemented and the parts used is holding it back.
HiVi also make a 2 way (HiVi2,1A) for about $240 usd and that includes everything to build them. They are really a great buy for the $$ and a fun first step into the DIY. Also the Overnight Sensations ($150 to 200) is another great first step into DIY speakers and for a small speaker they have a big sound with really good sound stage.
Experience isn't everything. There are many individuals in the world who just start out at something and are just naturally gifted and are better at that thing than individuals who have spent 60+ years doing absolutely nothing but that one specific thing. There are many individuals like this. Being competent doesn't mean that you actually know what your doing. As in Danny.
You have the NRC anechoic chamber results?
I was just about to ask that too , show those results
they will be posted and linked in due time when it is ready, thanks.
Since you're coming to Texas, you should see if you can do a tour of the Schiit facility, since they moved down here. That would be an interesting tour.
You stated facts, if the fan boys at GR research have a problem that's on them. Keep up the good work.
Love this! I’m not a GR fanboy, but I was alarmed by your response to the callout video he did. This whole journey couldn’t have worked out better. I have gained a lot of respect for both you and Danny watching this play out. Can’t wait to hear your findings from your review and trip, both positive and negative 💪🏼
ok, you have me as a follower for ever!
What speaker cables are those and what length?