Klipsch The Nines howl.me/cjM1qXog8F0 Klipsch RP Towers howl.me/cjOHxYHr5b3 Emotiva B2+ bit.ly/3NwFF4Q Sony SSCS5 amzn.to/3BWocMb Elac BS41 amzn.to/3Ww38FL Wharfedale Denton 80th bit.ly/3CMjiT0 Wharfedale Linton bit.ly/3oF5cvx Intro graphics by johnvilardi.com Support the Channel by Shopping on Amazon amzn.to/3W8vsgK
During our question for a great system we tried 5 of the speakers on this list, and 3 different amps, taking advantage of Crutchfield's return policy. We were stunned to learn that the Cambridge CXA61 (and duo phono amp), Wharfedale Linton, and SVS SB-1000 pro (almost all of which were on sale) ounded as good, and in some cases better than the ones we tried including the SVS, Klipsch, Elac, Emotiva, and latest KEF(not on the list). Sound is obviously incredibly subjective, and your room layout, amps used, and what you listen to makes a huge difference. But, for a guy who grew up in the 70's & 80's, this setup is THE best setup I've ever had. Didn't kneed two sub's with 2000watts either. Just the one, that was on sale, to add just a little punch, and warmth to help out the Linton. If those Lintons are still on sale, I can't recommend them enough. They sounded spectacular through every integrated amp we tried, and their phono preamp with my AT-LP120 (stock cartridge no-less) sounds amazing. *In short, this relatively very affordable complete system sounds INCREDIBLY smooth, warm, and extremely well balanced.* Just my two cents after having tried over 10K worth of products over 4mo. Good luck!
I bought the Kef Q150's when they were on sale for $300 and I am not regretting that at all! Those little guys sound fantastic - I don't know if I would pay the regular price of $600 for them, but for half price they are definitely worth it. Love the Uni-Q driver...
I bought a pair of Q350s for $279 new and I’m quite happy with them. Been running B&W 602 S3s for years but boy do they take a bit of power to sound nice.
I got the Wharfedale Diamond 220’s as surround speakers, but I set them up as a 2.0 in a bedroom to flex them a little. I was not impressed at first, but once they opened up and got comfy, they showed their worth, and I can’t, in good conscience, relegate them to rear status. They remain in that bedroom, and I absolutely love them.
I bought the Sony SSCS-5 open box from best buy for $99 about a year ago and they sound great in my living room powered by a Yamaha receiver, Onkyo cd changer, and an SVS SB-1000 for music cd's, movies, tv, youtube, podcasts, and streaming music! The SSCS-5 is a great speaker!
Bought mine at Best Buy-open box as well! I just needed speakers.....anything to put with my old Sony receiver to get some music in the house, boy was I happy I listened to Randy on these! Mine were a bit more at $130 but still worth it!
Just wanted to say how refreshing your channel is in terms of real world budget and experience and what it is like for the average person like myself on a shoe string budget that loves audio and music. Some of the other guys on youtube just make my heart sink when they start dropping names and figures it just is not like that for a lot of people. cheers for what you do, james.
Have you ever listened to A/D/S speakers? I have been collecting them since the 70's. Their newer speakers come with built in subwoofers. They are wonderful!!
Can't give those klipsh 6000 enough praise if you have the room and walls for them they rock with bass and precision ..i caught two for 800 you will amaze yourself every time you play them...take power n give pleasure n amazement.. will knock the house down...literally
I'd like to see a video where you talk about what a large vs small room size is, what exactly is near field listening, where you place your speakers etc... And thank you for all your videos!
Though it was two years ago I'm having trouble with this video: "Elac Uni-Fi 2.0 UB52 Review - Try to Beat It... I'll wait" vs being dropped off the current list. I purchased the Elacs and got a great deal on them. They now seem to be priced at $700/pr. This video says they were bounced for $1400/pr speakers. Might you help me make sense of this? Randy your reviews and channel have been great. I've been subscribed and followed many of your suggestions (including above) for about a year now. It's been very helpful. Thanks 71K views 2 years ago
I absolutely love the wharfedale Lintons, just a beautiful looking speaker with matching stands. They could be a furniture piece in your living room. I have a pair of the JBL L100 classics, which I love. Just need to convince my wife we need a pair of the Wharfedales. 😉
I was surprised the CSS Criton 1-TDX did not make your list. To me it is one of the nicest speakers out there at that price point. That is, of course if you build it yourself.
Thanks for the update Randy! Thanks to you I've rocked both the UB52's and now the Wharfedale Lintons, as well as Akitika Z4 power amp, and Geshelli Labs J2 AKM, (also the Ares II) and a few other cheap audio toys. Suffice it to say, you've been instrumental in my listening experience going far beyond what I've ever known. And I've been a music-listening addict since childhood (47 yrs old now). I'm happy with my gear and now toying around with different cables, as long as they're not stupid expensive. It's just fun!
I built a pair of Criton 1TDX with the crazy xover because of Randy. And my J2 has been ordered. I did grab my Lintons before his blessing, but I actually prefer the Critons over my Lintons. They’re that freakin good.
No KEF no Q-acoustics. I just look at the vintage market for speakers. Great deals to be found. Just got some Mission 700 Leading Edge Speakers. They aren't common in the US but last 2 on Hifishark were sold for around $200 Got mine for 70 euro's,
Agreed. I've ran and tested several of the new hyped speakers and found some JBL HLS610 in mint condition at a yard sale for $25 and they are wonderful.
I love my Revel Performa m106s. They’ve been around awhile and have never gotten a lot of love from reviewers, but they’re very balanced, sound good with everything.
Klipsch The Fives on sale for $499 right now for anyone looking for an incredible set of desk top speakers for your PC! Or whatever else you want to use them for for that matter
As one who has owned a number of these, I"m surprised the Kef LSX II didn't make the list. They are stunningly good. Stunningly good. I would think the Kanto Tuk would be another as it sounds as good as the Emotiva speakers having roughly the same tweeter and mid/low driver.
Man, as much as I appreciate this list... The only speakers I would consider putting in my living is the Polks. Especially the Emotivas... They are so ugly. 😂
I'm shocked you didn't have the CSS Criton 1TDX on your list. The only speaker I remember you saying you had to get out of your house because it was so much better than everything else.
Hey Buddy, it recently occurred to me, I don't think you've ever covered Magnepans! The LRS and LRS+ and previous entry level models certainly fit in the "cheap audio" category given their value proposition and almost universal love by their owners. Yes, they may require some reasonable power to drive but there are enough inexpensive amps which will do just fine. I'd love to hear your impressions of panel speakers vs. more common ways of vibrating the air. An initial review and long term conclusion would be cool. You probably have some Emotiva and Schiit laying around that would pair well to assemble a modest yet respectable rig and I think viewers would also appreciate hearing how something from Fosi or Aiyima fared powering something considered by many reviewers to be hard to drive.
I think (maybe I'm wrong?!?) Randy likes Heavy Metal & Rock & Roll music, therefore the LRS & LRS+ (wonderful speakers!!!!) would not be his weapon of choice/ preferred speakers. The only reason that I would not own them, is because of my room's acoustics/ not enough space to "properly" position them, and their lack of verticle dispersion (always must be seated to hear them properly)
@@MikeK6046 Yea, reasonable point but I think Magnepans are a bit misunderstood. Back in the day I had a set of the 6 panel Tympanis and now have a pair of LRS and while I don't lean toward Metal, I do mostly listen to Classic Rock and my experience is that Magnepans produce bass when it's in the recording and don't artificially accentuate it. I've had friends say "where's the bass" so I'll play something like Eminence Front from the Who and the Magnepans definitely produce a very large and powerful sounding presence and that goes for things like Supertramp or old Genesis and they way they fill the room when I play something like Welcome to the Pleasure Dome has quite an impact. It's just different. On more contemporary selections such as Billie Eilish or Royals by Lorde or Poker Face by Lady Gaga, they do not disappoint.
@@Dan-Tesch Maggies are so misunderstood. People that say "where's the bass" aren't listening to them. Maggies don't have a BOX sound. for that floor shaking vibration. You hear every single note of the bass, it just doesn't punch you in the chest. I had a pair of the Maggie 2.7's and LOVED them, but wife hated that they had to be so far out from the wall in the middle of the room to sound right. Maggies sound great on rock music. I think the Maggie 1.7i is the best speaker on the market for the money, in the world.
Issue with the Maggies is the SPL when compared to dynamic speaker cone setups. Your not going to get 120 db SPL .(Ted Nugent) Accuracy and musicality are a no brainer though.
Well the SVS Ultra Bookshelf speakers still get my vote. I love mine. Currently giving my Elac Carina Bookshelf speakers another chance and they starting to grow on me. The ribbon tweeter is starting to reveal more than I have heard before, even with the SVS Ultras, but not as bass capable. I thought you recommended the Carinas, but i must have been mistaken as you never mention them. Thank you for this updated list.
I have the carinas and they're terrific for everything if you have the power to run them in my experience. There was about 24 to 32 hours of break in where they were a bit fatiguing on the higher frequencies and the bass seemed a faint. Then, they woke up and stole my heart.
I'm using a T1+ in a 12 X 10 room, I don't think they are too much for the room. I think they are quite nice. I removed the driver and painted the cabinet a gloss white. To match my gloss white RT85 turntable and piano white SVS SB 1000 pro subs. Hopefully, they last, cause I'm pretty sure that voided the warranty.
I have damaged hearing due to being hit around the head at an early age, can I just add theres a large majority of hifi buffs that have different levels of hearing issues that is never mentioned with hifi speakers, thats why you should listen to their characteristics first. One persons decision is not enough to go on. I prefer the B&W 607s2 because they picked out more high end detail due to that amazing tweeter over my Q acoustic 3020i's. Audition even recommended speakers before buying, dont just go on reviews. Its a guide only.
I am a jaded and a harsh judge but a couple of yrs ago I was stopped dead in my tracks, jaw agape...when I heard from 20 feet away .. .the B&W 702 s2...the guy next to me, we looked at each other and laughed and agreed, the best we ever heard...turns out he was a touring sound guy w Stevie Wonder...but I could not afford at the time 2500 each...well, they are more now, like low 3k, so I better look for seconds, blems, open box whatever cuz I cannot get them outta my mind !
Well honestly I owned Yamaha from 1981 through 1998 Perry, I had obtained the pro series which were really nice looking monoliths 5pgo treats across top 2-inch pzr mid-range and a nice 12-inch Bass Drive ported period, they handled anything I could feed them and they never let me down. Speakers that I owned prior to that point where Pioneer HPM series beautiful things the hpm-100 series was electrically well configured and proved themselves to be perfect purveyors of sound period, the thing is when I bought these to the jamos in the Pioneers I would always buy three pair Peach long before 5.1 was even considered itsy every stereo amplifier and receiver back-in-the-day had enough room for four speakers so that's what I did Gary, and this is what everyone should do as well so is many speaker terminals you have on your receiver amplifier wherever from fill them up with speakers you'll be well rewarded
Do check out some vintage that run rings around their same class in the modern age.... Celestion Ditton 25 (1974) Cambridge Audio R40 (1975) , Heybrook HB3 (1982), Audiomaster MLS 4 (1984) , Wharfedale Dovedale MKIII (1973)
Why would the CSS 1TD-X not make this list? That review cam made was the most praise he ever gave a speaker yet he has not mentioned them ever in other reviews or top 10 lists? Leaves me wondering how accurate his review of them where.
Maybe because favorites are subjective and that can differ from performance which is more objective oriented? Edit: I just saw he commented elsewhere that kits weren't included.
@@spamcan9208 I would agree with you but CSS offers fully made speakers of the same model. And given that this was a price no issue comparison, I guess I'm still confused.
Hey Randy. I wanted to chime in and tell you that you have jumped into my top 3 speaker guys as soon as you used the word "yurt" in a sentence!! Actually, seeing how you enjoy yourself some bookshelfs, is there a height that is too low and one that is too high when placing bookshelf speakers on stands? I ask because our new cat has found the floorstanders I currently have a great scratching post substitute (she has several across our house) so I want to have something that will be about 3 feet off the floor. Thanks
the Linton's sound amazing (3-way) but large, I personally own the Polk R200, I was tossing between the R100 & 200. In the end I wanted a stand alone speaker no sub so went with the R200s, if I had the money & space would/ve gone with the Linton's
I tried the Sony's and for the price they sounded fantastic but returned them because I am spoiled to the the sound of my cerwin-vega E 712. I do like to rock out occasionally. Added aperion super tweeters and I am very happy. Trying to save up for hybrid Vincent amplifier.
@@deyh5664I never get the impression of them being muddy. What else would rock out black sabbath, Ted nugent, Drivin' n' Cryin', Led Zeppelin and such? I'm thinking JBL and Klipsch but the thing is when I'm listening to my current setup I never desire an upgrade, it's only when I start reading and watching reviews. If only my Onkyo TX 85111 was more powerful and had a dead silent background. But it does not start clipping until ear bleed levels .Got the Vincent hybrid amp and it is sitting in the closet because I prefer my Onkyo TX 85111. Also tried $4,000 worth of Rotel separates and they were impressive but..... Sucked all the life out of my rock and roll. I had just replaced my ortofon 2m black cartridge with the new lvb 250 ortofon black cartridge and was stunned at the difference in sound, it was like I had a new amplifier. My newly purchased Van Halen albums were sounding fantastic until I tried the $4,000 Rotel separates. Totally changed the sound of my Cerwin Vegas to something I would call sophisticated. You'll probably get a good laugh out of that but that is the best I can describe it. Did not do my rock and roll music Justice and I have the system for 90 days. It was more like I was listening to a surround sound system instead of two channel stereo.
I think your choices are cool, and not all of them crazy like "the price of a Porsche 911". But would like to add there are Pro Studio monitors out there worth checking out and worth integrating fine for home use. JBL, Kali, and Presonus all have good items that are affordable. The Kali 3 way monitors are especially good (tri-amped). All are powered but not a problem. They have good Pro subs too.
my lil homies got some klipsch 8000s and dude there awesome. super clean and powerful towers, took him a month or two ot break it in nicely. they are beautiful speakers as much as i want mcintosh or thx speakers which klipsch is thx speakers apperently. tottally recommend if you have a house up north and neighbors a few miles away.
Can you PLEASE do a true comparison video a true cheap vs expensive. Compare svs ultra bookshelve speakers vs sony sscs5 3 way speakers. I would really like to see how a true logic speaker stands up to a true top-of-the-line speaker. Could you please do this thank you very very much.
One speaker that you don't see a lot of reviews on is the HSU research CCB-8. It's not a common speaker, but with some tuning of my sound system to accommodate the character of the coaxial design, they're absolutely top notch. I would put them up against just about any high end speaker out there.
Have we already moved on from the Klipsch RP 600M I/II? I have a pair in piano black in my bedroom and because of them I am now a hermit in my bedroom.
You need to go to an audio show to judge for yourself. I don't care if it is AXPONA, Capital or Florida Audio Expo. Audio shows let you be the judge of what you like with no sales pressure at all. Shows just rock!
Surprised the SourcePoint 10 wasn't included. Seriously thinking about the SourcePoint 10's. Still love my Debut 5.2 and 6.2 sets. Also love my ELAC Carinas. Love a warm sound. Thanks for the video.
What stereo speakers would you recommend for my mom, an old lady with lots of dough who wants something that looks good but rarely listens above mouse fart volume? (Her tv, now that's another story 🎺🎺🎺)
Any interest in reviewing/broadcasting high end DIY builds that end up being cheaper than the average pre-built speaker? If the objective is quality listening at a low price, building your own can open the door to a new hobby/profession. Learning to build also makes you think about how badly/cheaply prebuilt speaker boxes are put together and how easy it is to modify a wooden box. There are easy calculators that help you with port tuning. Designing the speaker is surprisingly addictive once you have a few parameters / design limitations.
Just discovered your channel recently, love it I love full sounding warm sound signature, which bookshelves, centre, AVR and Subwoofer will you recommend for me for best bang for my money to build a 5.1 channel system ? PS: I'll be buying all the components used & would like to keep it under $1,000 Thanks!
I know buddy you get this every time, everybody's speakers are better than your reference speakers :) but hear me out, please pretty please, you have to listen to Adam T5V near field studio monitors. each monitor has a D Class Amp - 40 watts allocated to the mid and 20 watts to U-art ribbon treble. These have balanced and non balanced outputs. I have mine, working with Focal Sub One Woofer and Eversolo DAC-Z8 + JF MX-Pro Digital transport/Streamer. Bro, it's magic it won't cost you an arm and a leg :) All the best, love your RUclips vids, it's a real good pick me up every time I listen to your channel. Yes the Eversolo is the new contender in the sub £/$1000 bracket.
So crutchfield is having a sale on PSB speakers, specifically the Imagine XB $399(250 off) pretty sweet deal for a speaker you praised. I’ve got the original B and T models in gloss white…which likely sound the same in a fancier box…love them
Well if you want to go regardless of price for the best speakers on the planet when it comes to having a surround sound... Good friend of mine actually spent the money Rock the bank and bought seven.. Klipsch cornwalls.. and I'm running it with a monster 11 channel amplifier available through summit HiFi with all the possible upgrade you could ever want at 300 watts per channel that's for all 11 channels you don't have to use all of them channels but you have them available in case you may want to add more speakers later.. so that 7 channels driven at 300 watts per channel RMS into 8 ohms.. and when it comes to subs there's nothing like tone winner the monster concrete cracking house shaking foundation moving shattering beautiful sub vibration in your room.. buy two it's an absolute must or if you can buy four.. for that ever loving upgrade of subwoofers the setup I just mentioned will blow your mind.. I spent more time at my buddies house than my own home..😂😂
I have a question for you...what happened to the good old fashioned FLOOR speakers ? I have been searching and all I see these days are 1) Towers 2) Book shelf. What happened to ones shaped like my Pioneer HPM-100's ? I am looking to replace a set of Polk Monitor 70's towers (yes, the originals) and so many TOWERS to choose from...dang it...I have towers..I want FLOOR speakers....Anything?
I have had Great Luck filling Large Rooms with Vintage Wharfedale Linton 2's and Denton 2's fer Cheap Off Ebay from England and Our Newer Fosi Bluetooth Amps and Sony STR and Yamaha Natural Sound and Vintage Pioneer VSX Integrated Stereo System Drive them just Fine 🤘
So Randy, I wasn't surprised when the Jamo's got the boot. I bought them on your recommendation but I think I was too excited about getting them for $299. Having lived with them awhile I do hear their u-shaped character and forwardness. I still like them but I tried something that might anger the Hi-fi Gods and cause an uproar in the community. Here goes. Full disclosure. I paired the C93's with my Elac B6's and run them together A and B. Ha!! How do you like me now!! I think they sound pretty good together with much placement adjustment going on. Your thoughts? Yay or nay?
So that's a yay? I hope the topic gets some airtime in the future. You're the best.( better than all the r.....) Sorry, can't disrespect the Queen of Rock n' Roll.)
My best system was 4 pairs of speakers driven by its own 50 to 80 watt amps and some powered subs they all had separate equalizer (it was a large space) after much tinkering everything was there including things I didn't even know was there and heard for the first time. There isn't a speaker that does everything but 4 did. Just my take the sound was awesome and in a public space got a lot of comments about the wonderful sound from people casually walking through including a couple of professional concert cellists and an avant-garde musician. It was good had costumers stop in just to hear what I was playing. Best of all did pay much for any of the individual components fortunately vintage stuff was still a bargain. Like 75$ for a Sansui AU-7900 integrated amplifier with a wonderful preamp that controlled everything. Oh yeah even had some Badger Tailgate fans donate a Techniques direct drive turntable they loved the presence and my music choices that says a lot . The sound stage was the size and depth of a stage .I often stayed late just to listen because that wasn't happening in an apartment (105 Dbs not realistic without a visit from the local police) .
Are you sure that you do not present these classifications differently from one post to another? Example: from a previous video it seemed that a certain Elac was above a certain Polk and now in this top, they are upside down. They have not changed, they are the same speakers. What is the motivation? I ask because I was tempted to buy that Elac and not that Polk, and I don't know what to believe anymore.
love your videos!!! this is a great speaker list!! QUESTION: I am looking for the smallest stereo receiver that has FM, and a Stereo RCA output/and or tape outputs, as well as a few stereo RCA inputs. Any thoughts ;-)
Klipsch The Nines howl.me/cjM1qXog8F0
Klipsch RP Towers howl.me/cjOHxYHr5b3
Emotiva B2+ bit.ly/3NwFF4Q
Sony SSCS5 amzn.to/3BWocMb
Elac BS41 amzn.to/3Ww38FL
Wharfedale Denton 80th bit.ly/3CMjiT0
Wharfedale Linton bit.ly/3oF5cvx
Intro graphics by johnvilardi.com
Support the Channel by Shopping on Amazon amzn.to/3W8vsgK
During our question for a great system we tried 5 of the speakers on this list, and 3 different amps, taking advantage of Crutchfield's return policy. We were stunned to learn that the Cambridge CXA61 (and duo phono amp), Wharfedale Linton, and SVS SB-1000 pro (almost all of which were on sale) ounded as good, and in some cases better than the ones we tried including the SVS, Klipsch, Elac, Emotiva, and latest KEF(not on the list). Sound is obviously incredibly subjective, and your room layout, amps used, and what you listen to makes a huge difference. But, for a guy who grew up in the 70's & 80's, this setup is THE best setup I've ever had. Didn't kneed two sub's with 2000watts either. Just the one, that was on sale, to add just a little punch, and warmth to help out the Linton. If those Lintons are still on sale, I can't recommend them enough. They sounded spectacular through every integrated amp we tried, and their phono preamp with my AT-LP120 (stock cartridge no-less) sounds amazing. *In short, this relatively very affordable complete system sounds INCREDIBLY smooth, warm, and extremely well balanced.* Just my two cents after having tried over 10K worth of products over 4mo. Good luck!
Good info!
He kinda looks like Walter white at the end of breaking bad
I bought the Kef Q150's when they were on sale for $300 and I am not regretting that at all! Those little guys sound fantastic - I don't know if I would pay the regular price of $600 for them, but for half price they are definitely worth it. Love the Uni-Q driver...
I am suprised as well, I would epxect a css speaker up there, even the Tori, if you share it under 'regardless of'.....
how often do those go on sale for 300? and was it around black friday or christmas? thank you
$300 is fair for them if you don't want to rattle the windows. I do.
I bought a pair of Q350s for $279 new and I’m quite happy with them. Been running B&W 602 S3s for years but boy do they take a bit of power to sound nice.
I got the Wharfedale Diamond 220’s as surround speakers, but I set them up as a 2.0 in a bedroom to flex them a little. I was not impressed at first, but once they opened up and got comfy, they showed their worth, and I can’t, in good conscience, relegate them to rear status. They remain in that bedroom, and I absolutely love them.
I bought the Sony SSCS-5 open box from best buy for $99 about a year ago and they sound great in my living room powered by a Yamaha receiver, Onkyo cd changer, and an SVS SB-1000 for music cd's, movies, tv, youtube, podcasts, and streaming music!
The SSCS-5 is a great speaker!
Bought mine at Best Buy-open box as well! I just needed speakers.....anything to put with my old Sony receiver to get some music in the house, boy was I happy I listened to Randy on these! Mine were a bit more at $130 but still worth it!
A/B them with Triad LCRs and tell me what you think.
@@carlsitler9071 Where can I buy Triad LCRs?
Just wanted to say how refreshing your channel is in terms of real world budget and experience and what it is like for the average person like myself on a shoe string budget that loves audio and music. Some of the other guys on youtube just make my heart sink when they start dropping names and figures it just is not like that for a lot of people. cheers for what you do, james.
thank you so much!
Have you ever listened to A/D/S speakers? I have been collecting them since the 70's. Their newer speakers come with built in subwoofers. They are wonderful!!
Can't give those klipsh 6000 enough praise if you have the room and walls for them they rock with bass and precision ..i caught two for 800 you will amaze yourself every time you play them...take power n give pleasure n amazement.. will knock the house down...literally
I'd like to see a video where you talk about what a large vs small room size is, what exactly is near field listening, where you place your speakers etc... And thank you for all your videos!
Though it was two years ago I'm having trouble with this video: "Elac Uni-Fi 2.0 UB52 Review - Try to Beat It... I'll wait" vs being dropped off the current list. I purchased the Elacs and got a great deal on them. They now seem to be priced at $700/pr. This video says they were bounced for $1400/pr speakers. Might you help me make sense of this?
Randy your reviews and channel have been great. I've been subscribed and followed many of your suggestions (including above) for about a year now. It's been very helpful. Thanks
71K views 2 years ago
I absolutely love the wharfedale Lintons, just a beautiful looking speaker with matching stands. They could be a furniture piece in your living room. I have a pair of the JBL L100 classics, which I love. Just need to convince my wife we need a pair of the Wharfedales. 😉
The L100 Classics are phenomenal! Especially with vintage Marantz.
I was surprised the CSS Criton 1-TDX did not make your list. To me it is one of the nicest speakers out there at that price point. That is, of course if you build it yourself.
I would also like to know what the reason the Criton was not on the list. Is it because it is considered a DIY speaker?
No affiliate link for CSS. lol
Thanks for the update Randy! Thanks to you I've rocked both the UB52's and now the Wharfedale Lintons, as well as Akitika Z4 power amp, and Geshelli Labs J2 AKM, (also the Ares II) and a few other cheap audio toys. Suffice it to say, you've been instrumental in my listening experience going far beyond what I've ever known. And I've been a music-listening addict since childhood (47 yrs old now). I'm happy with my gear and now toying around with different cables, as long as they're not stupid expensive. It's just fun!
I built a pair of Criton 1TDX with the crazy xover because of Randy. And my J2 has been ordered. I did grab my Lintons before his blessing, but I actually prefer the Critons over my Lintons. They’re that freakin good.
No KEF no Q-acoustics. I just look at the vintage market for speakers. Great deals to be found. Just got some Mission 700 Leading Edge Speakers. They aren't common in the US but last 2 on Hifishark were sold for around $200 Got mine for 70 euro's,
Agreed. I've ran and tested several of the new hyped speakers and found some JBL HLS610 in mint condition at a yard sale for $25 and they are wonderful.
You can't beat the 3050,s from Q acoustics for less than $350.
For the pair,by the way,keep the bats away from mine😂
I love my Revel Performa m106s. They’ve been around awhile and have never gotten a lot of love from reviewers, but they’re very balanced, sound good with everything.
Klipsch The Fives on sale for $499 right now for anyone looking for an incredible set of desk top speakers for your PC! Or whatever else you want to use them for for that matter
As one who has owned a number of these, I"m surprised the Kef LSX II didn't make the list. They are stunningly good. Stunningly good. I would think the Kanto Tuk would be another as it sounds as good as the Emotiva speakers having roughly the same tweeter and mid/low driver.
Wow, starting with Klipsch Nine’s ??!!
And then onto BS41’s !!🤣🤣🤣
Man, as much as I appreciate this list... The only speakers I would consider putting in my living is the Polks. Especially the Emotivas... They are so ugly. 😂
Randy, I sure would love to come over to your speaker buffet and sample everything.
I'm shocked you didn't have the CSS Criton 1TDX on your list. The only speaker I remember you saying you had to get out of your house because it was so much better than everything else.
Hey Buddy, it recently occurred to me, I don't think you've ever covered Magnepans! The LRS and LRS+ and previous entry level models certainly fit in the "cheap audio" category given their value proposition and almost universal love by their owners. Yes, they may require some reasonable power to drive but there are enough inexpensive amps which will do just fine. I'd love to hear your impressions of panel speakers vs. more common ways of vibrating the air. An initial review and long term conclusion would be cool. You probably have some Emotiva and Schiit laying around that would pair well to assemble a modest yet respectable rig and I think viewers would also appreciate hearing how something from Fosi or Aiyima fared powering something considered by many reviewers to be hard to drive.
I think (maybe I'm wrong?!?) Randy likes Heavy Metal & Rock & Roll music, therefore the LRS & LRS+ (wonderful speakers!!!!) would not be his weapon of choice/ preferred speakers. The only reason that I would not own them, is because of my room's acoustics/ not enough space to "properly" position them, and their lack of verticle dispersion (always must be seated to hear them properly)
@@MikeK6046 Yea, reasonable point but I think Magnepans are a bit misunderstood. Back in the day I had a set of the 6 panel Tympanis and now have a pair of LRS and while I don't lean toward Metal, I do mostly listen to Classic Rock and my experience is that Magnepans produce bass when it's in the recording and don't artificially accentuate it. I've had friends say "where's the bass" so I'll play something like Eminence Front from the Who and the Magnepans definitely produce a very large and powerful sounding presence and that goes for things like Supertramp or old Genesis and they way they fill the room when I play something like Welcome to the Pleasure Dome has quite an impact. It's just different. On more contemporary selections such as Billie Eilish or Royals by Lorde or Poker Face by Lady Gaga, they do not disappoint.
@@Dan-Tesch Maggies are so misunderstood. People that say "where's the bass" aren't listening to them. Maggies don't have a BOX sound. for that floor shaking vibration. You hear every single note of the bass, it just doesn't punch you in the chest. I had a pair of the Maggie 2.7's and LOVED them, but wife hated that they had to be so far out from the wall in the middle of the room to sound right.
Maggies sound great on rock music. I think the Maggie 1.7i is the best speaker on the market for the money, in the world.
Issue with the Maggies is the SPL when compared to dynamic speaker cone setups.
Your not going to get 120 db SPL .(Ted Nugent)
Accuracy and musicality are a no brainer though.
@@mgaming7Still made in the USA too, right?
I’m sooo happy with my B&W 603 S2s, got on sale due to S3s being released. Sub €1k. Wonderful.
Well the SVS Ultra Bookshelf speakers still get my vote. I love mine. Currently giving my Elac Carina Bookshelf speakers another chance and they starting to grow on me. The ribbon tweeter is starting to reveal more than I have heard before, even with the SVS Ultras, but not as bass capable. I thought you recommended the Carinas, but i must have been mistaken as you never mention them. Thank you for this updated list.
I have the carinas and they're terrific for everything if you have the power to run them in my experience. There was about 24 to 32 hours of break in where they were a bit fatiguing on the higher frequencies and the bass seemed a faint.
Then, they woke up and stole my heart.
I'm using a T1+ in a 12 X 10 room, I don't think they are too much for the room. I think they are quite nice. I removed the driver and painted the cabinet a gloss white. To match my gloss white RT85 turntable and piano white SVS SB 1000 pro subs. Hopefully, they last, cause I'm pretty sure that voided the warranty.
My list : Whareferdale 12.1, Klipsch RP500m, Klipsch RF7ii, KEF R3, Buchardt S400ii, Mackie MR624 (hidden gem).
I have damaged hearing due to being hit around the head at an early age, can I just add theres a large majority of hifi buffs that have different levels of hearing issues that is never mentioned with hifi speakers, thats why you should listen to their characteristics first. One persons decision is not enough to go on. I prefer the B&W 607s2 because they picked out more high end detail due to that amazing tweeter over my Q acoustic 3020i's. Audition even recommended speakers before buying, dont just go on reviews. Its a guide only.
I am a jaded and a harsh judge but a couple of yrs ago I was stopped dead in my tracks, jaw agape...when I heard from 20 feet away ..
.the B&W 702 s2...the guy next to me, we looked at each other and laughed and agreed, the best we ever heard...turns out he was a touring sound guy w Stevie Wonder...but I could not afford at the time 2500 each...well, they are more now, like low 3k, so I better look for seconds, blems, open box whatever cuz I cannot get them outta my mind !
The Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary is an excellent speaker for smaller rooms. Dali also make fantastic speakers.
Idk, I’m too impartial to my KEF Q150. I think it’s the best 2.0 music listening experience on the cheap when it’s $300
Just ordered another pair of the Sony SSCS5 - I found an open box deal at Best Buy. Only $94.15 (including tax) ~Thanks Randy!
Great List Randy! The Denton 80th's are very high on my list! 👍👍👍
All new Borresen Acoustics X3 speakers are Game-Changers Indeed !
I have a pair of vintage Kenwood kl77x I bought when I was in the army love them great speakers
if anyone cares, Jamo updated their website with their new products 😉
Well honestly I owned Yamaha from 1981 through 1998 Perry, I had obtained the pro series which were really nice looking monoliths 5pgo treats across top 2-inch pzr mid-range and a nice 12-inch Bass Drive ported period, they handled anything I could feed them and they never let me down. Speakers that I owned prior to that point where Pioneer HPM series beautiful things the hpm-100 series was electrically well configured and proved themselves to be perfect purveyors of sound period, the thing is when I bought these to the jamos in the Pioneers I would always buy three pair Peach long before 5.1 was even considered itsy every stereo amplifier and receiver back-in-the-day had enough room for four speakers so that's what I did Gary, and this is what everyone should do as well so is many speaker terminals you have on your receiver amplifier wherever from fill them up with speakers you'll be well rewarded
Still loving Jamo c93 ii
2 wharfedales and neither were the ones I would pick: EVO 4.4 (or 4.2).
I'd really like to hear your opinion on some of the more popular DIY options out there vs these off the shelf options...
Would the 1TDX make this list?
Do check out some vintage that run rings around their same class in the modern age.... Celestion Ditton 25 (1974) Cambridge Audio R40 (1975) , Heybrook HB3 (1982), Audiomaster MLS 4 (1984) , Wharfedale Dovedale MKIII (1973)
Great vid. What is the crunchy punky song you play between speakers?
The song on the svs part? I second this. I need more music like that
Beyond Elysium by Wellmess
Budget List please!
so the two sets of $90-$120 speakers weren't budget? he has MANY videos covering BUDGET speakers.
I liked immediately when I heard no sons of mine 🤙 I haven’t crossed your vids yet so this is starting out well
Why would the CSS 1TD-X not make this list? That review cam made was the most praise he ever gave a speaker yet he has not mentioned them ever in other reviews or top 10 lists? Leaves me wondering how accurate his review of them where.
Maybe because favorites are subjective and that can differ from performance which is more objective oriented?
Edit: I just saw he commented elsewhere that kits weren't included.
@@spamcan9208 Ahhhh - I didn't see that either.
@@spamcan9208 I would agree with you but CSS offers fully made speakers of the same model. And given that this was a price no issue comparison, I guess I'm still confused.
No affiliate link on CSS. lol
Hey Randy. I wanted to chime in and tell you that you have jumped into my top 3 speaker guys as soon as you used the word "yurt" in a sentence!! Actually, seeing how you enjoy yourself some bookshelfs, is there a height that is too low and one that is too high when placing bookshelf speakers on stands? I ask because our new cat has found the floorstanders I currently have a great scratching post substitute (she has several across our house) so I want to have something that will be about 3 feet off the floor. Thanks
the Linton's sound amazing (3-way) but large, I personally own the Polk R200, I was tossing between the R100 & 200. In the end I wanted a stand alone speaker no sub so went with the R200s, if I had the money & space would/ve gone with the Linton's
I tried the Sony's and for the price they sounded fantastic but returned them because I am spoiled to the the sound of my cerwin-vega E 712. I do like to rock out occasionally. Added aperion super tweeters and I am very happy. Trying to save up for hybrid Vincent amplifier.
Cerwin Vega the king of muddy sound. I'd advice some other choices, but that's up to you.
@@deyh5664I never get the impression of them being muddy. What else would rock out black sabbath, Ted nugent, Drivin' n' Cryin', Led Zeppelin and such? I'm thinking JBL and Klipsch but the thing is when I'm listening to my current setup I never desire an upgrade, it's only when I start reading and watching reviews. If only my Onkyo TX 85111 was more powerful and had a dead silent background. But it does not start clipping until ear bleed levels .Got the Vincent hybrid amp and it is sitting in the closet because I prefer my Onkyo TX 85111. Also tried $4,000 worth of Rotel separates and they were impressive but..... Sucked all the life out of my rock and roll. I had just replaced my ortofon 2m black cartridge with the new lvb 250 ortofon black cartridge and was stunned at the difference in sound, it was like I had a new amplifier. My newly purchased Van Halen albums were sounding fantastic until I tried the $4,000 Rotel separates. Totally changed the sound of my Cerwin Vegas to something I would call sophisticated. You'll probably get a good laugh out of that but that is the best I can describe it. Did not do my rock and roll music Justice and I have the system for 90 days. It was more like I was listening to a surround sound system instead of two channel stereo.
Love the value of most of these picks. Great stuff.
I think your choices are cool, and not all of them crazy like "the price of a Porsche 911". But would like to add there are Pro Studio monitors out there worth checking out and worth integrating fine for home use. JBL, Kali, and Presonus all have good items that are affordable. The Kali 3 way monitors are especially good (tri-amped). All are powered but not a problem. They have good Pro subs too.
my lil homies got some klipsch 8000s and dude there awesome. super clean and powerful towers, took him a month or two ot break it in nicely. they are beautiful speakers as much as i want mcintosh or thx speakers which klipsch is thx speakers apperently. tottally recommend if you have a house up north and neighbors a few miles away.
finally, some classic material right here!!! Long live speaker shootouts!!!!!
Love your review! What do you think of (old) Definitive bookshelf speakers?
The SVS ultras are $1900 a pair here in Canada!
I replaced my RP6000f for a pair of KEF Q950 and couldnt be happier.
Can you PLEASE do a true comparison video a true cheap vs expensive. Compare svs ultra bookshelve speakers vs sony sscs5 3 way speakers. I would really like to see how a true logic speaker stands up to a true top-of-the-line speaker. Could you please do this thank you very very much.
You meant, are they actually worth it in that price or do we paying extra money for name/brand? I’m interested too
When you said regardless of price I was expecting $20,000 speakers. I can get some of these with what’s in my wallet.
I agree, disappointed the title lies
If you haven't tried the Elac BS-41's with all of Neil Blanchard's mods, I would recommend that you do so. It is absolutely stunning.
I think I might do that.
The scaling on his frequency response graph is the silliest thing ever
-80dB to +170dB?
No wonder if looks "flat" lol
Why not just build yourself a much more high end sounding diy speaker kit for a similar price? Modding cheap speakers is a fool's gold.
Probably has to do with how much I am willing to work on a project. Figure I'd start small.
One speaker that you don't see a lot of reviews on is the HSU research CCB-8. It's not a common speaker, but with some tuning of my sound system to accommodate the character of the coaxial design, they're absolutely top notch. I would put them up against just about any high end speaker out there.
Which high-end speakers have you owned?
Have we already moved on from the Klipsch RP 600M I/II? I have a pair in piano black in my bedroom and because of them I am now a hermit in my bedroom.
I had the Klipsch RP6000 a few years ago. It is an outstanding buy. High sensitivity- very easy to drive
I've had the RP-8000s for about a month and they sound fantastic.
I wish Klipsch made a Tower version of the 9s doubling up on the bass driver.
Klipsch Forte IV
You need to go to an audio show to judge for yourself. I don't care if it is AXPONA, Capital or Florida Audio Expo. Audio shows let you be the judge of what you like with no sales pressure at all. Shows just rock!
Surprised the SourcePoint 10 wasn't included. Seriously thinking about the SourcePoint 10's. Still love my Debut 5.2 and 6.2 sets. Also love my ELAC Carinas. Love a warm sound. Thanks for the video.
I haven’t even heard that speaker outside of Axpona last year. I’m thinking about trying to get the 8’s in for a video
What stereo speakers would you recommend for my mom, an old lady with lots of dough who wants something that looks good but rarely listens above mouse fart volume? (Her tv, now that's another story 🎺🎺🎺)
What about the SVS ultra towers?
What about the KLH Kendall or KLH Model 5?
Any interest in reviewing/broadcasting high end DIY builds that end up being cheaper than the average pre-built speaker? If the objective is quality listening at a low price, building your own can open the door to a new hobby/profession. Learning to build also makes you think about how badly/cheaply prebuilt speaker boxes are put together and how easy it is to modify a wooden box. There are easy calculators that help you with port tuning. Designing the speaker is surprisingly addictive once you have a few parameters / design limitations.
Just discovered your channel recently, love it
I love full sounding warm sound signature, which bookshelves, centre, AVR and Subwoofer will you recommend for me for best bang for my money to build a 5.1 channel system ?
PS: I'll be buying all the components used & would like to keep it under $1,000
Thanks!
Really sorry I am late responding. I have a rotel rd1580, yamaha ge-3 and looing for active speakers under 160usd with okay bass response.
Elac's Debut 2.0 B6.2?
My klipsch heresey ll are amazing so are my cornwalls.
Klipsch RF7 MKIII. Best speakers I've heard for rock and metal.
I know buddy you get this every time, everybody's speakers are better than your reference speakers :) but hear me out, please pretty please, you have to listen to Adam T5V near field studio monitors. each monitor has a D Class Amp - 40 watts allocated to the mid and 20 watts to U-art ribbon treble. These have balanced and non balanced outputs. I have mine, working with Focal Sub One Woofer and Eversolo DAC-Z8 + JF MX-Pro Digital transport/Streamer. Bro, it's magic it won't cost you an arm and a leg :) All the best, love your RUclips vids, it's a real good pick me up every time I listen to your channel. Yes the Eversolo is the new contender in the sub £/$1000 bracket.
I bought the Lintons because of this channel! No regrets!
So crutchfield is having a sale on PSB speakers, specifically the Imagine XB $399(250 off) pretty sweet deal for a speaker you praised. I’ve got the original B and T models in gloss white…which likely sound the same in a fancier box…love them
looking at the emotiva site t1+ are discounted $400, t2+ $500 but t3+ only $200 discount. dang. My B2+ arrive Saturday
whoo hoo!!
Those T2+ are hard to beat at that price.
Wish you'd review the RSL CG5; I'll bet it would make this list.
Second this.
They are great speakers. I have a 5.2.2 set up rsl. Imo best bang for your $ out there.
@@justinjohnson8871 agreed, I'm definitely loving mine. I just got a Speedwoofer 10S MkII too, and my system has never sounded better.
You forgot the Martin Logan XT B100 .
You had me about to hit buy on Elac UniFi Reference after your review, but no love on this list?
Randy has praised them several times, even in comparisons with costlier speakers like Buchardt s400 mkii and goldenear brx. I was surprised as well.
Well if you want to go regardless of price for the best speakers on the planet when it comes to having a surround sound... Good friend of mine actually spent the money Rock the bank and bought seven.. Klipsch cornwalls.. and I'm running it with a monster 11 channel amplifier available through summit HiFi with all the possible upgrade you could ever want at 300 watts per channel that's for all 11 channels you don't have to use all of them channels but you have them available in case you may want to add more speakers later.. so that 7 channels driven at 300 watts per channel RMS into 8 ohms.. and when it comes to subs there's nothing like tone winner the monster concrete cracking house shaking foundation moving shattering beautiful sub vibration in your room.. buy two it's an absolute must or if you can buy four.. for that ever loving upgrade of subwoofers the setup I just mentioned will blow your mind.. I spent more time at my buddies house than my own home..😂😂
I still like the Elac debut line. Just amazing for the money.
Peavey SP - 2 Speaker is real good. .
This video was really good. Liked and subscribed, forgot to b4. Keep em coming!
No CSS?
I have a question for you...what happened to the good old fashioned FLOOR speakers ? I have been searching and all I see these days are 1) Towers 2) Book shelf. What happened to ones shaped like my Pioneer HPM-100's ? I am looking to replace a set of Polk Monitor 70's towers (yes, the originals) and so many TOWERS to choose from...dang it...I have towers..I want FLOOR speakers....Anything?
I have had Great Luck filling Large Rooms with Vintage Wharfedale Linton 2's and Denton 2's fer Cheap Off Ebay from England and Our Newer Fosi Bluetooth Amps and Sony STR and Yamaha Natural Sound and Vintage Pioneer VSX Integrated Stereo System Drive them just Fine 🤘
still so stoked to have grabbed wearhouse sscs5 for 50 bucks
LOL! Emotiva ad. How appropriate.
it was actually a Klipsch/Emotiva ad.
Agreed. Linton's are solid. So good.
What is your comments/opinions about the Dali Oberon 3? Thanks
Listening to my SSCS5’s powered by Aiyima T9 fed by WiiM mini as I listen to this vid. All make sense, but nothing from KEF?
So Randy, I wasn't surprised when the Jamo's got the boot. I bought them on your recommendation but I think I was too excited about getting them for $299. Having lived with them awhile I do hear their u-shaped character and forwardness. I still like them but I tried something that might anger the Hi-fi Gods and cause an uproar in the community. Here goes. Full disclosure. I paired the C93's with my Elac B6's and run them together A and B. Ha!! How do you like me now!! I think they sound pretty good together with much placement adjustment going on. Your thoughts? Yay or nay?
So that's a yay? I hope the topic gets some airtime in the future. You're the best.( better than all the r.....) Sorry, can't disrespect the Queen of Rock n' Roll.)
My best system was 4 pairs of speakers driven by its own 50 to 80 watt amps and some powered subs they all had separate equalizer (it was a large space) after much tinkering everything was there including things I didn't even know was there and heard for the first time. There isn't a speaker that does everything but 4 did. Just my take the sound was awesome and in a public space got a lot of comments about the wonderful sound from people casually walking through including a couple of professional concert cellists and an avant-garde musician. It was good had costumers stop in just to hear what I was playing. Best of all did pay much for any of the individual components fortunately vintage stuff was still a bargain. Like 75$ for a Sansui AU-7900 integrated amplifier with a wonderful preamp that controlled everything. Oh yeah even had some Badger Tailgate fans donate a Techniques direct drive turntable they loved the presence and my music choices that says a lot . The sound stage was the size and depth of a stage .I often stayed late just to listen because that wasn't happening in an apartment (105 Dbs not realistic without a visit from the local police) .
the original Medowlark Kestrels will kick you butt. Put them with Tube amps and you will not ever need anything else.
Are you sure that you do not present these classifications differently from one post to another? Example: from a previous video it seemed that a certain Elac was above a certain Polk and now in this top, they are upside down. They have not changed, they are the same speakers. What is the motivation? I ask because I was tempted to buy that Elac and not that Polk, and I don't know what to believe anymore.
Randy why no CSS Criton 1TDX on your top ten???
It's diy
its not tho. They sell them complete as well. Truth? no affiliate link. ;) @@CADClicker
What do you consider a large vs midsize room, in terms of square footage? Thanks!
Ho about those RSL mtm speakers you looked at recently?
magnapan LRS !!!!!! (with upgrade crossovers)
Uh Ohh. What happened to his darling Elac Uni-Fi 2.0 UB52? Bumped by the The Linton that is TRIPLE the price!????
love your videos!!! this is a great speaker list!! QUESTION: I am looking for the smallest stereo receiver that has FM, and a Stereo RCA output/and or tape outputs, as well as a few stereo RCA inputs. Any thoughts ;-)
Your thoughts on B&W 707 S2?