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The conversation in the first segment of the video just further reminds me of why I like this channel, it's so refreshing to hear the breadth of what you enjoy. Also, Kristi adds so much to this channeI! I can understand why you split her commentary off into unplugged but mostly I miss it. The story of her experience in music over her life had a lot of parallels to my own and I really appreciated that
I personally like that your channel covers a wide variety of products for all different audiences, setups, and price points. It makes you stand out from the crowd.
I LOVE that you cover “lifestyle” audio products. I can’t count the number of times people wanted to hear a Wave Radio when I worked at BB back in the day. I think more people want something that fits in with their decor than the purists will have you believe. Not everyone is willing to sacrifice looks for the absolute best sound quality. It’s nice to see products that try to do both.
Parallels between the biases and changes in HiFi and automotive are scary similar. All these niche hobbies need to circle the wagons, embrace positive change and support each other.
I think a lot of the elitists in this hobby don't realise that these all in one systems could be a gateway for people to discover the wonders of music played back at a higher level and just might lead them to explore even better experiences up the chain, which just might keep this niche hobby alive for years to come.
I believe the McIntosh 7200 would be a far more notable upgrade to the 40N and even the A2000 from Yamaha if you have the budget. I would outfit the 7200 with the upgraded DAC module if that's an option at your retailer. I appreciate your support!
Love the variety of HiFi products presented on this channel! I just wish there were still places to go to easily experience Hi-Fi. When audio stores were abundant in my younger years, I didn't have the money to be taken seriously. Now that I have the money the only thing we really have to go on is reviews by others.
I hear ya and can appreciate the predicament. Sadly, specialty retailers of all types fall by the wayside nowadays in favor of big box stores, etc. I am not sure what the answer is, but I get it.
I’m doing a four hour (each way) road trip tomorrow for just that reason as I upgrade and rationalize a 5.1 and a 2.1 system into one. None of the dealers in my major metropolitan area have enough variety.
@@glenngross605 Road trip time! I have this dream to visit 48 states in the USA via motorcycle in the years ahead. Along the way, I hope to visit national parks, old friends, and just maybe...some HiFi locations.
It's all preference. I know people love streaming and CDs, but for me there are certain types of music or recordings (i.e. classical and Jazz), that I like listening to on vinyl for some reason.
This product most definitely has a place in the audio hobby. I'd much rather have this in my bedroom then a full blown typical 2-channel system. This is not an end-all, be-all system but allows you to continue to listen to music in areas you've never experienced decent music in. What's better? Turning up the main stereo in another room or having one on these right next to you?
@@andrewrobinsonreviews No problem man! Love your channel!! You're the top audio gear reviewer on YT in my opinion and I got my Marantz AVR because of your high regard for the brand in general. Couldn't be happier, and I have you to thank, so Thank you!
I like your Unplugged format of discussing the "why" or use-cases for bringing gear into a home. That said, it would be more natural to see you both talking to each other using your furniture instead of Andrew as a floating body and Kristi as a disembodied voice. The room size discussion is important, which is one reason why I mentioned the 90's Bose Wave earlier and also why you two discussed modern alternatives to it. Here's the breakdown: 1) "We" do not have dedicated listening rooms but every 2-speaker argument ultimately depends on that assumption. "We" mostly live with other humans who want that room shared. Andrew alluded to this when he called out the zillions of people using a pair of speakers barely seperated relative to where they sit. This perpetuates ignorance. 2) Price = perception, and humans are famously bad at saving money. I can afford $350 this month but I need to wait a few months to buy another $350 piece, and wait again for more. That's why some think WiiM and 2 little speakers are "better." The colloquial "we" are not often gonna cough up $1500 for one box, even if it's better for us. Humans are not rational.
To me it seems like, in general, people tend to believe that what's normal for them is what's 'normal' and anything that falls outside that is 'junk', 'useless', 'wrong', etc. The extra step of thinking or expressing something like, "I can see how there might be folks for whom this is a good fit", is far less common.
Another great episode of unplugged! Appreciate the convo. Any product that brings more enjoyment for people when engaging with media is welcome whether that be because of style, ease of use or flexibility. Few things compare to experiencing something you know but in a way you never have before...
Hifi definition: it’s the 70’s and you just rocked a party with beer, weed, and loud tunes, you wake up the next afternoon saying “damn that sounded great last night”!
Carl - how does the ‘70s joke go? if you remember last night, you didn’t fully participate. Two speaker companies of that approximate era that I owned and miss the most would probably be Dahlquist (DQ10/DQ1-W/DQMX-1) and Spica (SC50 / TC50). Had several pairs of Bostons and later EPIs - all fun and mostly party able in moderation, but nothing as special as the prior named.
Forever ago, there were "rules" such as _"there is no substitute for cubic inches"_ (applied to engines _and_ speakers)... technology has given us massive improvement (in both areas) by challenging such rules
Hi Fidelity is all about personal choice, budget, and how far down the rabbit hole you really want to go , there is no right and wrong , enjoy you’re sound 👍
I like where gear is headed. Simplicity and decent sound is was I want. I’ve never dabbled with high end gear, but I spent years fussing with mid tier amps, speakers, receivers, wiring…etc and it took away from my enjoyment of music and movies.
Thanks for highlighting my comment :), and I also think what you say here is true at the same time. FYI I've never owned seperates myself, mostly all-in-ones and soundbars. My first serious system was the Arcam Solo Mini with a pair of B&W 685 mk1s. If you don't recall the Arcam Solo Mini, please google - I still think it's one of the most gorgeous looking things ever! This video and discussion was great!
Great video guys. Don’t disagree with any of this. I would just add that a lot of us audio nerds with components and amps and speakers, are also the customers of products like these for other room use cases. We aren’t all dinosaurs who hate anything new tech or different approaches. I have a 2 ch “hifi”, an 11 ch home theater, an office set up with a streaming integrated and bookshelves with a sub, a streamer with wireless powered speakers in a workout room, a streamer amp for outdoor speakers, and 2 sound bars for TVs. I think the people buying Cambridge Audio Units like this are often audio people who have other systems and buy something this for a kitchen or parlor etc. People who are new to audio don’t know Cambridge or Marantz or Focal, they are buying Sony, Samsung, etc. My 2 cents. Just don’t want to be lumped in with curmudgeons just because I do invest a lot in traditional set ups. Cheers to you both, loved the video and super excited for Sunday!
Haters are gonna hate -- I appreciate the all in one review, it has its place for many people....to your point it is impossible to deny the simplicity of streaming and less cables/stuff...esp with modern family with children and limited physical space to have some crazy setup. Id love to see the bluesound soundbar on your reviews one day as well!
This is a great option for my wife because she enjoys good sound but is not discerning. Her other preference is a soundbar and a hidden sub. Me, I want 16 speakers, 2 subs and 6 amps heating up my room. Or 2 nice bookshelves driven by a smooth tube amp. And I stream and favor CD's and lossless. Thanks for the perspectives!
You guys shouldn’t care too much about the comments and what people think in this regard. There are always going to be people who have negative or stubborn views. Besides this is the internet. So by nature it’s going to have people saying cras things. You have good content. Just keep doing what you are doing . 👍 I have a JBL extreme we use for the bathrooms and to have portable. It’s amazing compared to the garbage we had in the 70’s and 80’s. We also have a soundbar for movies. Perfectly fine and great. And at the same time we also have the expensive 2 channel 2 speaker 2 sub hifi system for music. ALL are awesome. And yes the future will be smaller digital designs and it’s fine. I if someone can make a soundbar to sound like my 2 channel speaker system I say bring it. Would be awesome and get back some space in the living room.
I just bought an Onkyo Rz50 for $400, I’m saving for a new home, so I’m going to start with 2 speakers, and add more when I move, I liked your last video and I liked it, even if I may not buy the Cambridge…
Greetings K & A, I enjoyed today's conversation about the Cambridge Audio Evo One. I would like to experience one in my lifetime. I would like to return to the Unplugged episode regarding small listening spaces for a moment. I understand people who have a narrow wall with the added difficulty of a doorway which forces them to use their speakers to be stationed an HDTV's width apart. I have very few problems with that scenario because I have a Sony 65" separating my front speakers with a center channel speaker between them. I look forward to an Unplugged episode covering difficult listening spaces. Thank you for reading this comment and taking the proposed topic under consideration, or not.
I completely agree, the future is active speakers, DSP, built-in steamer, etc. The first active speakers I heard were klipch fives and then I realized where the future is. Now they are in the library, and in the living room I have a KEF LX 60 with a jl audio sub - and it's absolutely mind blowing.
It's similar to Turbocharged vs Naturally aspirated engines.. some will say "there's no replacement for displacement", but numbers prove that it's not entirely true
In my opinion, ALL and ANY piece of eqiopment is worth a look. Some of your viewers need to understand that here in Europe, our houses are often TINY, and therefore, having a full range of separates with big, floorstanding speakers, just isn't physically possible! I heard a friend's microsystem a while ago, and they took me up on my advice to upgrade the speakers (I think they got Wharfy Diamond 9.1) and...wow. The difference! Proof that a budget microsystem with decent speakers CAN deliver. As for soundbars, I heard the EVO (albeit in a showroom) and was surprised how good it sounded.
Good morning Kristi, Andrew and everyone. The Evo looks great and I’m sure it sounds pretty neutral. This would be a product I’d use in the bedroom to listen while reading or with some tunes to drift off to sleep. The future’s so bright …
For me personally, I just want a system that will match my expectations of good audio. I know what I like and I have a set of standards. I've never heard a one box solution that can beat my traditional separates. When I do, then I can change the direction of my journey. But I am not opposed to being open to what's to come.
Happy Friday Andrew and Kristi. Great discussion us usual. I don't get the hostility some have to these lifestyle products. Many will be attracted to the style and simplicity of an all in one versus a potentially better sounding system of separate components and speakers even at a comparable price. Enjoy the weekend and see you Sunday!
This was a really interesting discussion for me having just bought the evo one,i am very happy with it and think it sounds fantastic,i dont really have the space or room for separate speakers so this has worked a treat for me,it looks great too and i do like the screen and the artwork etc,but of course what really counts is the sound and it doesn't disappoint,no matter what type of music i throw at the evo it handles it so well and to my ears the reproduction is excellent,the app is flawless too
One of my favourite bits of audio gear is the JBL Onbeat Xtreme 😮 At one point I had that in the centre of my traditional audio setup. I think at the time i had some vintage Sansui speakers and another smaller pair of something set up, so using the A and B of my amp (AU417) On more than one occasion I had friends come over while i was playing the JBL and think I was playing the larger stereo because it sounded so large. I must get it out again 😉👍
Kristi managed to verbalize exactly my sentiments regarding this product. I'm not sure how I feel about the Evo One. I kinda like it. I want to like it more. As to the future of HiFi, I look forward to all of it provided it does not abandon the aesthetic component! As an artist I would rather sacrifice a few watts here, a feature there and have it visually satisfying. I don't care how powerful it is or packed with every bell & whistle, if it's ugly to look at it doesn't get my attention or dollar.
i had a chance to listen to the Evo one and it sound cool, I liked it more than any sound bar in the shop. For daily use it would be more then fine to just enjoy the music through this
We as consumers in an internet age with few brick and mortars do not have the budget to try different things like the EVO when we know we can find joy in something we have experienced. I am willing to sample different things to see if I would like them. IF someone else pays the cost.
Gotta love hi fi or home theatre at its best “ what ever one thinks is best” but I enjoy just listening and watching on what ever I can afford and I have been around a long time and saw and heard just about everything one could imagine but right now it is fun and enjoyable.
So for context, partner and I love to vrbo/airbnb when we travel. We like having hifi options for where we stay. Currently we haul a polk magnifi mini, which isnt great but kicks the crap out of any portable Bluetooth or ‘party’ speaker ive heard. In the market for a good all in one that fills a cabin with sound.
So Andrew.... No budget, no room constraints..... What would you prefer between the more modern offerings that you are mentioning here or the older more conventional stereo setup. You never actually say which is better?
Thank you so much for answering my question regarding the B&O A9. I’m also thrilled to learn that you are considering getting a second A9 so that you can have a stereo pair. I anxiously await that review!!
@35:35 discussing having 2 of them setup not as stereo pair but what about front of field under tv and another at rear of field at the back of the room?
I dont see the evo as a bad product, I think for the majority of people they just might not be the target at its cost. If i had a pool room, a medium sized home office, a yacht, i would be much more into this product, but not as my only system. I see this as an accessory that lives somewhere other than a main system, but not many people would buy this before they have a main system and that system is complete.
a true hi-fi enthusiast will only have analog. the warm sound of Cassette!
2 дня назад
Analogue or digital, hifi or midi? I think I can tell the difference when listening to familiar recordings but isn’t it a blessing to have such wonderful options available and to have the time, money and health to be able to choose between them dependent on your mood and budget. Viva la difference and long live the music!
I must admit that Soundbars have come on a long way since they first came out, My first experience with flat-screen TVs that sound was terrible so I grabbed some Edifier speakers to help my TV out, as back then soundbars looked terrible and sounded just as bad. My main hifi is a two-channel tube amp & Wharfedale Linton set, which works great. Years later I bought a Samsung "The Frame" TV and I put it on the wall, but my Edifier Speakers would not work (Bluetooth only but the delay was terrible) so I got a Samsung Frame Soundbar with sub to help the TV out and much to my surprise it sounds ok and while it can't hold a candle to my current setup its a lot better than the early stuff I had heard in the past and better than the Edifier Speakers. Times are changing. I remember having a good long look at the Naim Muso a few years back as an all-in-one system but I still own a turntable which I love.
Even if you don’t like the Evo One the success behind it is still great for you as a Cambridge and audio enthusiast. Better these companies do that are committed to traditional hifi the more they are going to be able to put into the products you love as well.
Originally HiFi is defined in the DIN 45500 (1977). Nowadays there's no problem for most brands to live up to the norm, but thats just specs. There's no discussion about taste, not even good taste because nothing is so personal as your ears, let alone design you love, or the depth of your wallet. I hope everybody finds their respective set and placement in their space to listen.
...and in the in-between, there's the Andover SpinSystem "tower" setup. Phono, Bluetooth, subwoofer, plus the little Akai CD player I added. Sounds way better than it should and is so dang fun to use. All in white, to please She Who Must Not Be Crossed....
Several years back - actually more like 15 - I had all the equipment: Sony Home theater amp, CD, DVD, Cambridge Audio Speakers and center channel, and in-celing surrounds. Also a Logitech remote that programs it all. Sounded very good. Well, except when the Logitech decided to suddenly not work (but another story). But I saw Sonos equipment at Best Buy and saw sparkles. I bought the sound bar, sub, and surrounds. I hoped to simplify. Alas, when I hooked it up, really didn't impress me at all. Plus it was a good bit more expensive than my cobbled system. So I took it all back. FF to today; I now have a Sonos Arc (not Ultra) and Sub Gen 3 in my living area, and Bluesound Powernode and Focal 826 speakers (purchased first). Initially, I commented I'd have been ok with the Sonos system as my main, but since realized the BS / Focal is more enjoyable for music.
I'd love to hear the Cambridge Audio Evo One in person. High quality compact systems have their place. Audiophile snobs claim that there's only one narrow interpretation of hi-fi. Why not embrace the totality instead of needing to be right, about everything subjective?
Marantaz had a all in one the ms7000 in the 2000s. Amazing speaker with great vocals and classical genre tuning. Amazing bass too overall sound is better than its contemporary competitors the beosound 8, b and w zepplin, and NAD Viso 1/AP
I’m new to the channel but watched quite a few episodes and I’m impressed with your content and your explanation of equipment and I am sure 1that anyone of these so called audiophiles should understand that a lot of people can walk into their listening room and say that system sucks you do have yada yada yada and my system is more expensive and there is no best or perfect it’s whatever is best for you your room and most of all your cash
The Cambridge Evo is a “lifestyle” system. It has its place in the market, as these systems always have. Not everyone can, or is allowed to have several separates and numerous speakers, or even wants to. There’s no need to deride something just because it’s not for you.
I really like this discussion and reading the comments. For myself, I’m not a fanboy or “phile” of anything. I refuse to place myself inside a proverbial box. A friend is a chef and he randomly eats McDonalds because it tastes good for what it is, he doesn’t limit himself to every meal being a minimal high level or it’s garbage
Good morning Andrew and Kristi! What is your choice out of these 2 subwoofer. Dynaudio 18s dual 9.5" or the Kef KC92 My budget is $2,000 for a subwoofer. Would you recommend anything different.??
7:00 I agree. When you say that, I immediately think about BEOLAB. I also think about live sound, pretty mix every single speaker now has dsp. Many of these speakers have great bones, but they get significantly better performance with dsp. Feels like we are hashing the Bose-McIntosh debate again.
For Any all-in-one system, I’d have the same question about a built-in timer/alarm feature. This would be great for master bedroom tv system. You should be able to download the owners manual to find out about that feature. I’ve looked for it in many AVR’s and haven’t found one like on my old Anthem D2 pre-pro.
Wow, so polarizing I love it. I believe folks are just embarrassed with how much they spend on audio equipment when companies come out with something that sounds just as good for less money.
A little late, but.. thanksfor the review and unplgged as always! Very enjoyable and informative. I have one question/complaint about CA evo one - can one put a TT on it, a la spinbase? If it doesn't, this feels like such a lost opportunity - space is likely a concern for anyone considering to buy products like this, and CA cleary does care about vinyl. You thought to put a phono for God's sake! You can really help potential buyers. If it does or should work, I'd certainly make that clear. Edit: I missed it has EQ and some Room correction. good too see!
29:29 (a pair of speakers three feet apart) that would have been a great comparison to do in the review. Future idea as the soundstage topic comes up so much with soundbars / set top solutions
Being of the age of where Hifi came into the layman/common folks vocabulary, the technology may go back to the 30's or 40's, but the parameters of Hifi comes from a setup reproducing a quality sound (Vinyl or 2ch reel to reel). The American public can thank its service men who purchased many of those early system from oversees shipping them back home starting back in the late 50's. The big HiFi invasion occurred during the late 60's into the early 80's. Many service men volunteer for oversees assignments just to have the opportunity to buy good HiFi equipment. To a old guy like me, the Cambridge Audio Evo one as with the many other sound bar's is a throw back to the flip up/out record player that 10's of thousands of pre-teen/teenagers grow up on listening to the beetles, the Rolling stones, and the Who. The Motown sound was based on sounding good on that type of system, where hearing just the vocals was all one needed. Hifi/Stereo expanded the listening experience to take notice of all the instruments in the recording. We move on to the 90's where I feel HiFi went into hibernation taking a step back to low res digital media. As digital formats have improved over the years, Hifi has been seen as returning to the forefront as quality over convenience. The Cambridge and sound bars in general just reminds me of the days of flip up record players.
As a Canadian, today is the beginning of my boycott of all USA businesses and Made in the USA products for many years to come. Many fellow Canadians are thinking the same way. I even cancelled my trip to the USA for this weekend, not spending a dime in the USA if I can help it. We have been betrayed by Trump's 25% Tariff on Canada. Shame on the USA for stabbing your strongest Ally and partner in the back. So SAD !
Not a single politician speaks for you or me. They all do what they desire for themselves. If all we ever did was grandstand and boycott and pretend we are sociopolitical martyrs for limiting ourselves we'd never leave our homes if we looked into all the garbage that politicians engage in. Heck, we'd all have to leave our homes and give up our electronics if we actually cared about terrible things going on in the world in places where we get our products from and cared about who makes them. You picked a hill to die on and ignored all the others. Welcome to the new hypocrisy. Same as the old hypocrisy. So if you want to boycott, okay, but you're not actually accomplishing anything save for limiting yourself.
Well... my opinion on the HiFi matter is that reaching the end goal of getting very high fidelity playback of audio is the most important. Not the road there. Meaning... it's not that important if you get there by traditional approach or modern high tech with dsp, active speakers and such. As long as the end result sounds fantastic, I think most people could be happy. I think I will be open to reaching the sound experience I want in different ways, depending on what options will be available in the future, and what suits the room it will be installed in, and my budget. I'm not afraid of technology making it less of an experience
Why are people so rigid? I have a traditional stereo "hifi" set-up, but what would be so wrong about having the Evo One in another room? Also, geez, love the comment from the guy that said you can only stream on the go and NOT at home 🤦♂
THIS. I also have different solutions in different rooms. everything from a single bluesound speaker up to a big analogue separates system. they are ALL good, depending on the scenario.
Separates are better for a repairability/replaceability standpoint. That’s why I steer away from products like this. Nothing to do with audiophile ignorance. You mentioned the Wiim amp but not the powernode EDGE for an inexpensive stereo amp/streamer. Does the edge have the same limitations as the wiim? Sometimes watts aren’t the same.
I still go back and forth on CD vs streaming music from a thumb drive because while I listen to a streamer I am looking for my next track and sometimes I don’t listen to the whole track before switching songs. A CD or LP it’s more dedicated listening experience.
In basic High-fidelity audio - or HiFi, for short - is audio that’s reproduced from the original recording with as high a degree of exactness as possible. Short of staging a live show or concert in your living room, a HiFi audio setup should deliver the best sonic quality you can experience at home. (SONOS) I just read the article on the SONOS web site and it was excellent!! Out side of the basic definition, and at a minimum it needs to have 2 channel stereo, the system that a person builds for their Hi Fi listening is a personal preference, to what degree and expense they take their Hi Fi experience. I don’t want to blabber on, but honestly go read the article and then come back and discuss your thoughts.
So why do so many people (Andrew included) eschew engineering measurements as a measure of accuracy? exactness is accuracy, surely? Surely the clue is in the word 'fidelity'?
@ Sorry this got long winded. my thought is this is where we can get mixed up in measurements vs. personal preference. What is the accuracy( fidelity measuring stick)? The term of Hi Fi was introduced around 1950 as the quality of reproduction in sound playback that surpassed the older format of mono, or the phonograph. Before 2 channel “Hi Fi” was released, no one was able to experience something similar what they heard when they heard a performance of any sort live with their own ears. The first technology available when Hi Fi was first defined in the 50’s was very rudimentary but still sonically far superior to what it was replacing. As time has gone on, the capability of equipment to reproduce to “live experience” “hi Fi” has improved. There was never a set exact set of measurement requirements set at that time. It was a definition of feeling/experience. We have used our own biases combined with our own perception of what that term means or should mean. Some Hi Fi experiences can be different than others, some better, some worse. Also different preferences on what type of sound people like. We all have different ears, and things sound different to different people. I’m 49 and my hearing above 17,000 hz is almost non existent. My daughters hear it fine. So if I have an audio set up and I turn up the treble to where I can hear it, and someone measures it and says what I am listening to sounds inaccurate, because to treble is out of whack? That’s the beauty of music and sound, we all have different tastes and preferences. Something might have a narrow sound stage, something might have a wide sound stage. It’s still a sound stage. We should be happy that we live in a time where we have so many different choices and abilities of bringing that old 1950’s (hi fi) term into our lives, and find what fits our individual needs the best.
I can provide the information but can't force you to watch it or understand it. Measurements are provided in nearly every review I post, which this video is not. You'll find a link to the review in the description.
@andrewrobinsonreviews I am fortunate to own an Arcam AVR 30/Cambridge Audio Edge NQ/M monoblocs solution for dedicated movie and stereo listening. I also have an EVO One and SONOS. The key question is which is best. The answer is ‘they all are’ doing what they are designed to do! EVO One is an excellent all-in-one and I would recommend to anyone - it has great sound and superb functionality. Can it better the Arcam and Edge system no, but it’s not meant to……. So if you want a good all in one system the EVO One deserves your time and ears. Great review guys.
Hi you two. Am wondering, searching for powered wireless speakers for both music and tv thru streaming Apple TV at level 60 to 70 db max. Are there speakers that sound better at these lower levels?
To me.. most of audio gear is HiFi now - is capable of reproducing sound correctly* (with the exception of really low quality gear with dated Bluetooth protocols). Now it's more about value proposition. I'm not sure if Cambridge Audio offer is there compared to Sonos Arc or The Nines or Powered Kef solutions and all of them are the same price or lower while having feature parity, and taking similar amount of space in the room. So, why?
Hi! I want to know how it compare with the jbl l75ms aparently they are for the same use but with a very different combination of drivers. Thanks im very interesting in the jbl for configuration, quality, capacity and look
Isn’t ‘hi-fi’ all about being fussy? Room treatment, placement, speakers matching to amps, dacs, phono cartridges etc etc. Isn’t that part of the beauty of the hobby. Nothing against the evo, it looks very nice and in the right scenario it’s probably perfect, but saying that we just want simplicity and unfussy equipment I think almost goes against the point of hifi. The simpler you make things, the less interesting it becomes. Just a thought.
The older I get, the more I just want it to work. Maybe I'm in the minority. I still like to tinker with stuff but won't until it's broken and prefer buying products with very long shelf life over getting new for the sake of being new.
@@frommatorav1to be fair, that’s a good point. I’m still a fan of passive speakers and an amp but I’m totally open to all in one or active speakers etc. there is a lot to be said for an easy life
Hi FI brand is applicable only to perceived sound. Original sound produced by humans talk in presence, real instruments and real happenings in natural loudness levels around are Hi Fi. If audio system produces the same sound we may call it Hi FI perception . We do not need to know any technical data, no reqiurements about treatment or shape or color, materials because they do not assure Hi FI. The gear should not be branded Hi Fi because it is not producing own acoustic sounds (except it's own Hi FI noise by operation) - Gear goal is only to convert electrical impulses, not to make own sounds. . If is it bad sound than we sholudn't call it "no Hi FI gear" only say that "sound is not Hi FI" and do not state opinion about gear - accidentaly it may be perfectly made .
@@frommatorav1 I have to agree in general. However, I have a Sonos Arc and Sub Gen 3 for TV, and a Bluesound PowerNode and Focal 826 towers for music. The Sonos is ok when streaming music, but the Bluesound / Focal combo is so much more dynamic and open. If you told me I had to choose one set for both TV and audio, I'd choose the BS / Focal. That said, of course the Sonos setup works great for TV since it supports ATMOS, and has voice control and TruePlay. I'm just lucky I can have both systems. For the record, I am very open to an all-in-one system that handles both duties well.
I have two sonos play 5s in stereo pair with a turntable attached they sound amazing is it classed as hi fi I think so it compares to my friends £1800 set up and some genres sound better on my 5s 🎵🎶🎵🎶
I got long winded in another comment, about “Hi Fi”. So apologies for another one. I think the title of this video is profound. The term “Hi Fi” is outdated, obsolete. Hi Fi was a term to describe a technology introduced with the the ability to create a more advanced recreation of something (mostly music) we heard with our own ears. Music is emotion!! It can make us happy. It can make us cry. It can energize us. It can relax us. Music(sound) is beautiful. We live in a time where we are lucky to have so many technological advances that allow us to experience the wonders of sound in so many ways, styles and places. I echo Andrew’s phrase with a twist “the only person that has to like the way you experience sound is you”, and if it makes you happy, then that is Hi Fi to you!
It all depends on your goals. I have a dedicated room. 5.4.2 system. But if I was in a living room, then something different. People who have a dedicated room, they want certain things.
📌 Considering the Evo One from Cambridge Audio? Find it here bit.ly/3Ca5PHs
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The conversation in the first segment of the video just further reminds me of why I like this channel, it's so refreshing to hear the breadth of what you enjoy. Also, Kristi adds so much to this channeI! I can understand why you split her commentary off into unplugged but mostly I miss it. The story of her experience in music over her life had a lot of parallels to my own and I really appreciated that
I personally like that your channel covers a wide variety of products for all different audiences, setups, and price points. It makes you stand out from the crowd.
I LOVE that you cover “lifestyle” audio products. I can’t count the number of times people wanted to hear a Wave Radio when I worked at BB back in the day. I think more people want something that fits in with their decor than the purists will have you believe. Not everyone is willing to sacrifice looks for the absolute best sound quality. It’s nice to see products that try to do both.
People want something stylish and functional and in today's world you can have both.
Parallels between the biases and changes in HiFi and automotive are scary similar.
All these niche hobbies need to circle the wagons, embrace positive change and support each other.
And you like watches also, man talk about swimming in the shrinking deep end of the pool 😂
I think a lot of the elitists in this hobby don't realise that these all in one systems could be a gateway for people to discover the wonders of music played back at a higher level and just might lead them to explore even better experiences up the chain, which just might keep this niche hobby alive for years to come.
Best integrated amp I have the Marantz 40N
Upgrade to McIntosh mac7200 or Yamaha A2000?
I believe the McIntosh 7200 would be a far more notable upgrade to the 40N and even the A2000 from Yamaha if you have the budget. I would outfit the 7200 with the upgraded DAC module if that's an option at your retailer. I appreciate your support!
Love the variety of HiFi products presented on this channel! I just wish there were still places to go to easily experience Hi-Fi. When audio stores were abundant in my younger years, I didn't have the money to be taken seriously. Now that I have the money the only thing we really have to go on is reviews by others.
I hear ya and can appreciate the predicament. Sadly, specialty retailers of all types fall by the wayside nowadays in favor of big box stores, etc. I am not sure what the answer is, but I get it.
I’m doing a four hour (each way) road trip tomorrow for just that reason as I upgrade and rationalize a 5.1 and a 2.1 system into one. None of the dealers in my major metropolitan area have enough variety.
@@glenngross605 Road trip time! I have this dream to visit 48 states in the USA via motorcycle in the years ahead. Along the way, I hope to visit national parks, old friends, and just maybe...some HiFi locations.
It's all preference. I know people love streaming and CDs, but for me there are certain types of music or recordings (i.e. classical and Jazz), that I like listening to on vinyl for some reason.
This product most definitely has a place in the audio hobby. I'd much rather have this in my bedroom then a full blown typical 2-channel system. This is not an end-all, be-all system but allows you to continue to listen to music in areas you've never experienced decent music in. What's better? Turning up the main stereo in another room or having one on these right next to you?
Being a car guy, I LOVE the supercar hot lap analogy for hifi experiences with equipment outside of your budget
So glad my analogy made sense. Whew. Thanks for the feedback and for watching.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews No problem man! Love your channel!! You're the top audio gear reviewer on YT in my opinion and I got my Marantz AVR because of your high regard for the brand in general. Couldn't be happier, and I have you to thank, so Thank you!
I did one of those Groupons with friends like $300 for 3 laps in 3 different supercars, was awesome we got free beer after the drive!!
I like your Unplugged format of discussing the "why" or use-cases for bringing gear into a home. That said, it would be more natural to see you both talking to each other using your furniture instead of Andrew as a floating body and Kristi as a disembodied voice.
The room size discussion is important, which is one reason why I mentioned the 90's Bose Wave earlier and also why you two discussed modern alternatives to it. Here's the breakdown:
1) "We" do not have dedicated listening rooms but every 2-speaker argument ultimately depends on that assumption. "We" mostly live with other humans who want that room shared. Andrew alluded to this when he called out the zillions of people using a pair of speakers barely seperated relative to where they sit. This perpetuates ignorance.
2) Price = perception, and humans are famously bad at saving money. I can afford $350 this month but I need to wait a few months to buy another $350 piece, and wait again for more. That's why some think WiiM and 2 little speakers are "better." The colloquial "we" are not often gonna cough up $1500 for one box, even if it's better for us. Humans are not rational.
As a person with a 2.1 system and a 130 dollar class d amp, I think my set up sounds great for both music and tv
To me it seems like, in general, people tend to believe that what's normal for them is what's 'normal' and anything that falls outside that is 'junk', 'useless', 'wrong', etc. The extra step of thinking or expressing something like, "I can see how there might be folks for whom this is a good fit", is far less common.
Another great episode of unplugged! Appreciate the convo. Any product that brings more enjoyment for people when engaging with media is welcome whether that be because of style, ease of use or flexibility. Few things compare to experiencing something you know but in a way you never have before...
Hifi definition: it’s the 70’s and you just rocked a party with beer, weed, and loud tunes, you wake up the next afternoon saying “damn that sounded great last night”!
😂
Totally agree
Can anyone give me an example of lo-fi
@@divadgnol67
I can. You’re at a party and the terrible sound is giving you an ear bleed and it’s not just because it’s loud!
Carl - how does the ‘70s joke go? if you remember last night, you didn’t fully participate. Two speaker companies of that approximate era that I owned and miss the most would probably be Dahlquist (DQ10/DQ1-W/DQMX-1) and Spica (SC50 / TC50). Had several pairs of Bostons and later EPIs - all fun and mostly party able in moderation, but nothing as special as the prior named.
Forever ago, there were "rules" such as _"there is no substitute for cubic inches"_ (applied to engines _and_ speakers)... technology has given us massive improvement (in both areas) by challenging such rules
Hi Fidelity is all about personal choice, budget, and how far down the rabbit hole you really want to go , there is no right and wrong , enjoy you’re sound 👍
I like where gear is headed. Simplicity and decent sound is was I want. I’ve never dabbled with high end gear, but I spent years fussing with mid tier amps, speakers, receivers, wiring…etc and it took away from my enjoyment of music and movies.
Thanks for highlighting my comment :), and I also think what you say here is true at the same time. FYI I've never owned seperates myself, mostly all-in-ones and soundbars. My first serious system was the Arcam Solo Mini with a pair of B&W 685 mk1s. If you don't recall the Arcam Solo Mini, please google - I still think it's one of the most gorgeous looking things ever!
This video and discussion was great!
So glad to have you as a part of today's show!
Thanks for your input today. Have a great Friday 😊
Great video guys. Don’t disagree with any of this. I would just add that a lot of us audio nerds with components and amps and speakers, are also the customers of products like these for other room use cases. We aren’t all dinosaurs who hate anything new tech or different approaches. I have a 2 ch “hifi”, an 11 ch home theater, an office set up with a streaming integrated and bookshelves with a sub, a streamer with wireless powered speakers in a workout room, a streamer amp for outdoor speakers, and 2 sound bars for TVs. I think the people buying Cambridge Audio Units like this are often audio people who have other systems and buy something this for a kitchen or parlor etc. People who are new to audio don’t know Cambridge or Marantz or Focal, they are buying Sony, Samsung, etc. My 2 cents. Just don’t want to be lumped in with curmudgeons just because I do invest a lot in traditional set ups. Cheers to you both, loved the video and super excited for Sunday!
Haters are gonna hate -- I appreciate the all in one review, it has its place for many people....to your point it is impossible to deny the simplicity of streaming and less cables/stuff...esp with modern family with children and limited physical space to have some crazy setup. Id love to see the bluesound soundbar on your reviews one day as well!
Also -- in terms of future the non passive stereo setup in the real deal and IMO will be the balance between soundbar and full setup
This is a great option for my wife because she enjoys good sound but is not discerning. Her other preference is a soundbar and a hidden sub. Me, I want 16 speakers, 2 subs and 6 amps heating up my room. Or 2 nice bookshelves driven by a smooth tube amp. And I stream and favor CD's and lossless. Thanks for the perspectives!
You guys shouldn’t care too much about the comments and what people think in this regard. There are always going to be people who have negative or stubborn views. Besides this is the internet. So by nature it’s going to have people saying cras things.
You have good content.
Just keep doing what you are doing .
👍
I have a JBL extreme we use for the bathrooms and to have portable. It’s amazing compared to the garbage we had in the 70’s and 80’s.
We also have a soundbar for movies. Perfectly fine and great. And at the same time we also have the expensive 2 channel 2 speaker 2 sub hifi system for music.
ALL are awesome.
And yes the future will be smaller digital designs and it’s fine. I if someone can make a soundbar to sound like my 2 channel speaker system I say bring it. Would be awesome and get back some space in the living room.
I just bought an Onkyo Rz50 for $400, I’m saving for a new home, so I’m going to start with 2 speakers, and add more when I move, I liked your last video and I liked it, even if I may not buy the Cambridge…
Greetings K & A, I enjoyed today's conversation about the Cambridge Audio Evo One. I would like to experience one in my lifetime. I would like to return to the Unplugged episode regarding small listening spaces for a moment. I understand people who have a narrow wall with the added difficulty of a doorway which forces them to use their speakers to be stationed an HDTV's width apart. I have very few problems with that scenario because I have a Sony 65" separating my front speakers with a center channel speaker between them. I look forward to an Unplugged episode covering difficult listening spaces. Thank you for reading this comment and taking the proposed topic under consideration, or not.
Change is good! Awesome videos and have a great weekend.
I completely agree, the future is active speakers, DSP, built-in steamer, etc. The first active speakers I heard were klipch fives and then I realized where the future is. Now they are in the library, and in the living room I have a KEF LX 60 with a jl audio sub - and it's absolutely mind blowing.
OMG the mement when Editor Andrew added “manual does not say” was hilarious.
Its like he did his job...sort of
It's similar to Turbocharged vs Naturally aspirated engines.. some will say "there's no replacement for displacement", but numbers prove that it's not entirely true
For a short time. Everything is give and take with physics.
In my opinion, ALL and ANY piece of eqiopment is worth a look. Some of your viewers need to understand that here in Europe, our houses are often TINY, and therefore, having a full range of separates with big, floorstanding speakers, just isn't physically possible! I heard a friend's microsystem a while ago, and they took me up on my advice to upgrade the speakers (I think they got Wharfy Diamond 9.1) and...wow. The difference! Proof that a budget microsystem with decent speakers CAN deliver. As for soundbars, I heard the EVO (albeit in a showroom) and was surprised how good it sounded.
Good morning Kristi, Andrew and everyone. The Evo looks great and I’m sure it sounds pretty neutral. This would be a product I’d use in the bedroom to listen while reading or with some tunes to drift off to sleep. The future’s so bright …
For me personally, I just want a system that will match my expectations of good audio. I know what I like and I have a set of standards. I've never heard a one box solution that can beat my traditional separates. When I do, then I can change the direction of my journey. But I am not opposed to being open to what's to come.
Happy Friday Andrew and Kristi. Great discussion us usual. I don't get the hostility some have to these lifestyle products. Many will be attracted to the style and simplicity of an all in one versus a potentially better sounding system of separate components and speakers even at a comparable price. Enjoy the weekend and see you Sunday!
This was a really interesting discussion for me having just bought the evo one,i am very happy with it and think it sounds fantastic,i dont really have the space or room for separate speakers so this has worked a treat for me,it looks great too and i do like the screen and the artwork etc,but of course what really counts is the sound and it doesn't disappoint,no matter what type of music i throw at the evo it handles it so well and to my ears the reproduction is excellent,the app is flawless too
Thank you! I always thought those pictures were to get both speakers in the photo 😀
I think it’s funny whenever people get bent out of shape because a firm offers a product for which they aren’t interested in, or in the market for.
One of my favourite bits of audio gear is the JBL Onbeat Xtreme 😮
At one point I had that in the centre of my traditional audio setup. I think at the time i had some vintage Sansui speakers and another smaller pair of something set up, so using the A and B of my amp (AU417)
On more than one occasion I had friends come over while i was playing the JBL and think I was playing the larger stereo because it sounded so large.
I must get it out again 😉👍
Kristi managed to verbalize exactly my sentiments regarding this product. I'm not sure how I feel about the Evo One. I kinda like it. I want to like it more. As to the future of HiFi, I look forward to all of it provided it does not abandon the aesthetic component! As an artist I would rather sacrifice a few watts here, a feature there and have it visually satisfying. I don't care how powerful it is or packed with every bell & whistle, if it's ugly to look at it doesn't get my attention or dollar.
i had a chance to listen to the Evo one and it sound cool, I liked it more than any sound bar in the shop. For daily use it would be more then fine to just enjoy the music through this
We as consumers in an internet age with few brick and mortars do not have the budget to try different things like the EVO when we know we can find joy in something we have experienced. I am willing to sample different things to see if I would like them. IF someone else pays the cost.
My 1500 might be a Wiim ultra into Cambridge AXR100 and the elac's, might have some cash for a subwoofer
Gotta love hi fi or home theatre at its best “ what ever one thinks is best” but I enjoy just listening and watching on what ever I can afford and I have been around a long time and saw and heard just about everything one could imagine but right now it is fun and enjoyable.
So for context, partner and I love to vrbo/airbnb when we travel. We like having hifi options for where we stay. Currently we haul a polk magnifi mini, which isnt great but kicks the crap out of any portable Bluetooth or ‘party’ speaker ive heard. In the market for a good all in one that fills a cabin with sound.
So Andrew.... No budget, no room constraints..... What would you prefer between the more modern offerings that you are mentioning here or the older more conventional stereo setup. You never actually say which is better?
Thank you so much for answering my question regarding the B&O A9. I’m also thrilled to learn that you are considering getting a second A9 so that you can have a stereo pair. I anxiously await that review!!
Cheers peeps, I was your 500th like :D
Good morning, Kristi and Andrew!🥳 Oh! And Kadie too!🥰
Good morning, Leezah. Hope you're doing well today. Thanks for joining us.
Hi Leezah!
@@andrewrobinsonreviewsThanks Andrew! Hope you’re doing well too!🥰
@@KristiWright Hi Kristi!🥰
@35:35 discussing having 2 of them setup not as stereo pair but what about front of field under tv and another at rear of field at the back of the room?
I dont see the evo as a bad product, I think for the majority of people they just might not be the target at its cost. If i had a pool room, a medium sized home office, a yacht, i would be much more into this product, but not as my only system. I see this as an accessory that lives somewhere other than a main system, but not many people would buy this before they have a main system and that system is complete.
a true hi-fi enthusiast will only have analog. the warm sound of Cassette!
Analogue or digital, hifi or midi? I think I can tell the difference when listening to familiar recordings but isn’t it a blessing to have such wonderful options available and to have the time, money and health to be able to choose between them dependent on your mood and budget. Viva la difference and long live the music!
I must admit that Soundbars have come on a long way since they first came out, My first experience with flat-screen TVs that sound was terrible so I grabbed some Edifier speakers to help my TV out, as back then soundbars looked terrible and sounded just as bad. My main hifi is a two-channel tube amp & Wharfedale Linton set, which works great. Years later I bought a Samsung "The Frame" TV and I put it on the wall, but my Edifier Speakers would not work (Bluetooth only but the delay was terrible) so I got a Samsung Frame Soundbar with sub to help the TV out and much to my surprise it sounds ok and while it can't hold a candle to my current setup its a lot better than the early stuff I had heard in the past and better than the Edifier Speakers. Times are changing. I remember having a good long look at the Naim Muso a few years back as an all-in-one system but I still own a turntable which I love.
Even if you don’t like the Evo One the success behind it is still great for you as a Cambridge and audio enthusiast. Better these companies do that are committed to traditional hifi the more they are going to be able to put into the products you love as well.
For les than 1500 $you could get cambridge cxa61 + wiim mini + a pair of q acoustics speakers with stands .that s what I would buy
Originally HiFi is defined in the DIN 45500 (1977). Nowadays there's no problem for most brands to live up to the norm, but thats just specs. There's no discussion about taste, not even good taste because nothing is so personal as your ears, let alone design you love, or the depth of your wallet. I hope everybody finds their respective set and placement in their space to listen.
...and in the in-between, there's the Andover SpinSystem "tower" setup. Phono, Bluetooth, subwoofer, plus the little Akai CD player I added. Sounds way better than it should and is so dang fun to use. All in white, to please She Who Must Not Be Crossed....
Several years back - actually more like 15 - I had all the equipment: Sony Home theater amp, CD, DVD, Cambridge Audio Speakers and center channel, and in-celing surrounds. Also a Logitech remote that programs it all. Sounded very good. Well, except when the Logitech decided to suddenly not work (but another story).
But I saw Sonos equipment at Best Buy and saw sparkles. I bought the sound bar, sub, and surrounds. I hoped to simplify. Alas, when I hooked it up, really didn't impress me at all. Plus it was a good bit more expensive than my cobbled system. So I took it all back.
FF to today; I now have a Sonos Arc (not Ultra) and Sub Gen 3 in my living area, and Bluesound Powernode and Focal 826 speakers (purchased first). Initially, I commented I'd have been ok with the Sonos system as my main, but since realized the BS / Focal is more enjoyable for music.
I'd love to hear the Cambridge Audio Evo One in person. High quality compact systems have their place. Audiophile snobs claim that there's only one narrow interpretation of hi-fi. Why not embrace the totality instead of needing to be right, about everything subjective?
Marantaz had a all in one the ms7000 in the 2000s. Amazing speaker with great vocals and classical genre tuning. Amazing bass too overall sound is better than its contemporary competitors the beosound 8, b and w zepplin, and NAD Viso 1/AP
I’m new to the channel but watched quite a few episodes and I’m impressed with your content and your explanation of equipment and I am sure 1that anyone of these so called audiophiles should understand that a lot of people can walk into their listening room and say that system sucks you do have yada yada yada and my system is more expensive and there is no best or perfect it’s whatever is best for you your room and most of all your cash
The Cambridge Evo is a “lifestyle” system. It has its place in the market, as these systems always have. Not everyone can, or is allowed to have several separates and numerous speakers, or even wants to. There’s no need to deride something just because it’s not for you.
I really like this discussion and reading the comments. For myself, I’m not a fanboy or “phile” of anything. I refuse to place myself inside a proverbial box. A friend is a chef and he randomly eats McDonalds because it tastes good for what it is, he doesn’t limit himself to every meal being a minimal high level or it’s garbage
Good morning Andrew and Kristi!
What is your choice out of these 2 subwoofer.
Dynaudio 18s dual 9.5" or the
Kef KC92
My budget is $2,000 for a subwoofer.
Would you recommend anything different.??
Lol. It's been the exact same argument over at Harley-Davidson...
Interesting video, interesting product. Thanks for the great content!
7:00 I agree. When you say that, I immediately think about BEOLAB. I also think about live sound, pretty mix every single speaker now has dsp. Many of these speakers have great bones, but they get significantly better performance with dsp. Feels like we are hashing the Bose-McIntosh debate again.
For Any all-in-one system, I’d have the same question about a built-in timer/alarm feature. This would be great for master bedroom tv system. You should be able to download the owners manual to find out about that feature. I’ve looked for it in many AVR’s and haven’t found one like on my old Anthem D2 pre-pro.
I would love to hear what you think of a JBL Authentics system.
Wow, so polarizing I love it. I believe folks are just embarrassed with how much they spend on audio equipment when companies come out with something that sounds just as good for less money.
A little late, but.. thanksfor the review and unplgged as always! Very enjoyable and informative.
I have one question/complaint about CA evo one - can one put a TT on it, a la spinbase?
If it doesn't, this feels like such a lost opportunity - space is likely a concern for anyone considering to buy products like this, and CA cleary does care about vinyl. You thought to put a phono for God's sake! You can really help potential buyers.
If it does or should work, I'd certainly make that clear.
Edit: I missed it has EQ and some Room correction. good too see!
29:29 (a pair of speakers three feet apart) that would have been a great comparison to do in the review. Future idea as the soundstage topic comes up so much with soundbars / set top solutions
Have you heard of the Anthem MRX-SLM (slim)? It would be a great amp for a small room follow up!
Being of the age of where Hifi came into the layman/common folks vocabulary, the technology may go back to the 30's or 40's, but the parameters of Hifi comes from a setup reproducing a quality sound (Vinyl or 2ch reel to reel). The American public can thank its service men who purchased many of those early system from oversees shipping them back home starting back in the late 50's. The big HiFi invasion occurred during the late 60's into the early 80's. Many service men volunteer for oversees assignments just to have the opportunity to buy good HiFi equipment. To a old guy like me, the Cambridge Audio Evo one as with the many other sound bar's is a throw back to the flip up/out record player that 10's of thousands of pre-teen/teenagers grow up on listening to the beetles, the Rolling stones, and the Who. The Motown sound was based on sounding good on that type of system, where hearing just the vocals was all one needed. Hifi/Stereo expanded the listening experience to take notice of all the instruments in the recording. We move on to the 90's where I feel HiFi went into hibernation taking a step back to low res digital media. As digital formats have improved over the years, Hifi has been seen as returning to the forefront as quality over convenience. The Cambridge and sound bars in general just reminds me of the days of flip up record players.
I think a good solution for really small spaces might be a decent pair of headphones and a dac/amp combo.
The best hifi advise is spend within your means
Afternoon Andrew, Kristi & Kadie 👍👍🦴
Good morning, KJ! Hope all is well!
KJ. Good to see ya.
As a Canadian, today is the beginning of my boycott of all USA businesses and Made in the USA products for many years to come. Many fellow Canadians are thinking the same way. I even cancelled my trip to the USA for this weekend, not spending a dime in the USA if I can help it. We have been betrayed by Trump's 25% Tariff on Canada. Shame on the USA for stabbing your strongest Ally and partner in the back. So SAD !
Roughly half the voters didn't vote for Trump ! Stick it to him !
Not a single politician speaks for you or me. They all do what they desire for themselves. If all we ever did was grandstand and boycott and pretend we are sociopolitical martyrs for limiting ourselves we'd never leave our homes if we looked into all the garbage that politicians engage in. Heck, we'd all have to leave our homes and give up our electronics if we actually cared about terrible things going on in the world in places where we get our products from and cared about who makes them. You picked a hill to die on and ignored all the others. Welcome to the new hypocrisy. Same as the old hypocrisy. So if you want to boycott, okay, but you're not actually accomplishing anything save for limiting yourself.
Well... my opinion on the HiFi matter is that reaching the end goal of getting very high fidelity playback of audio is the most important. Not the road there. Meaning... it's not that important if you get there by traditional approach or modern high tech with dsp, active speakers and such. As long as the end result sounds fantastic, I think most people could be happy.
I think I will be open to reaching the sound experience I want in different ways, depending on what options will be available in the future, and what suits the room it will be installed in, and my budget. I'm not afraid of technology making it less of an experience
Repeat to yourself: Not all products are for me, and that's a good thing.
Why are people so rigid? I have a traditional stereo "hifi" set-up, but what would be so wrong about having the Evo One in another room? Also, geez, love the comment from the guy that said you can only stream on the go and NOT at home 🤦♂
THIS. I also have different solutions in different rooms. everything from a single bluesound speaker up to a big analogue separates system. they are ALL good, depending on the scenario.
Separates are better for a repairability/replaceability standpoint. That’s why I steer away from products like this. Nothing to do with audiophile ignorance. You mentioned the Wiim amp but not the powernode EDGE for an inexpensive stereo amp/streamer. Does the edge have the same limitations as the wiim? Sometimes watts aren’t the same.
I still go back and forth on CD vs streaming music from a thumb drive because while I listen to a streamer I am looking for my next track and sometimes I don’t listen to the whole track before switching songs. A CD or LP it’s more dedicated listening experience.
I think you should review the Cambridge audio evo one against a ruark R610 or 810
In basic
High-fidelity audio - or HiFi, for short - is audio that’s reproduced from the original recording with as high a degree of exactness as possible. Short of staging a live show or concert in your living room, a HiFi audio setup should deliver the best sonic quality you can experience at home. (SONOS)
I just read the article on the SONOS web site and it was excellent!!
Out side of the basic definition, and at a minimum it needs to have 2 channel stereo, the system that a person builds for their Hi Fi listening is a personal preference, to what degree and expense they take their Hi Fi experience.
I don’t want to blabber on, but honestly go read the article and then come back and discuss your thoughts.
So why do so many people (Andrew included) eschew engineering measurements as a measure of accuracy? exactness is accuracy, surely? Surely the clue is in the word 'fidelity'?
Except that I don't...
@@andrewrobinsonreviews I don't see much measurement. Lots of subjectivism though, with the usual words and phrases.
@ Sorry this got long winded. my thought is this is where we can get mixed up in measurements vs. personal preference. What is the accuracy( fidelity measuring stick)? The term of Hi Fi was introduced around 1950 as the quality of reproduction in sound playback that surpassed the older format of mono, or the phonograph. Before 2 channel “Hi Fi” was released, no one was able to experience something similar what they heard when they heard a performance of any sort live with their own ears. The first technology available when Hi Fi was first defined in the 50’s was very rudimentary but still sonically far superior to what it was replacing. As time has gone on, the capability of equipment to reproduce to “live experience” “hi Fi” has improved. There was never a set exact set of measurement requirements set at that time. It was a definition of feeling/experience. We have used our own biases combined with our own perception of what that term means or should mean. Some Hi Fi experiences can be different than others, some better, some worse. Also different preferences on what type of sound people like. We all have different ears, and things sound different to different people. I’m 49 and my hearing above 17,000 hz is almost non existent. My daughters hear it fine. So if I have an audio set up and I turn up the treble to where I can hear it, and someone measures it and says what I am listening to sounds inaccurate, because to treble is out of whack? That’s the beauty of music and sound, we all have different tastes and preferences. Something might have a narrow sound stage, something might have a wide sound stage. It’s still a sound stage. We should be happy that we live in a time where we have so many different choices and abilities of bringing that old 1950’s (hi fi) term into our lives, and find what fits our individual needs the best.
I can provide the information but can't force you to watch it or understand it. Measurements are provided in nearly every review I post, which this video is not. You'll find a link to the review in the description.
For a $1500 system, I would recommend the Arcam A5 ($700), Debut 3.0 ($450) and the WiiM Ultra ($330).
… another good option for a budget integrated would be the Rotel A10 Mk II ($600).
What about the sonus faber omnia?
@andrewrobinsonreviews I am fortunate to own an Arcam AVR 30/Cambridge Audio Edge NQ/M monoblocs solution for dedicated movie and stereo listening. I also have an EVO One and SONOS. The key question is which is best. The answer is ‘they all are’ doing what they are designed to do! EVO One is an excellent all-in-one and I would recommend to anyone - it has great sound and superb functionality. Can it better the Arcam and Edge system no, but it’s not meant to……. So if you want a good all in one system the EVO One deserves your time and ears. Great review guys.
Hi you two.
Am wondering, searching for powered wireless speakers for both music and tv thru streaming Apple TV at level 60 to 70 db max. Are there speakers that sound better at these lower levels?
Are there going to be super chats so you can ask a question
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To me.. most of audio gear is HiFi now - is capable of reproducing sound correctly* (with the exception of really low quality gear with dated Bluetooth protocols).
Now it's more about value proposition. I'm not sure if Cambridge Audio offer is there compared to Sonos Arc or The Nines or Powered Kef solutions and all of them are the same price or lower while having feature parity, and taking similar amount of space in the room. So, why?
Hi! I want to know how it compare with the jbl l75ms aparently they are for the same use but with a very different combination of drivers. Thanks im very interesting in the jbl for configuration, quality, capacity and look
Great upload 👌👌👌👌👌
Isn’t ‘hi-fi’ all about being fussy? Room treatment, placement, speakers matching to amps, dacs, phono cartridges etc etc.
Isn’t that part of the beauty of the hobby.
Nothing against the evo, it looks very nice and in the right scenario it’s probably perfect, but saying that we just want simplicity and unfussy equipment I think almost goes against the point of hifi. The simpler you make things, the less interesting it becomes.
Just a thought.
The older I get, the more I just want it to work. Maybe I'm in the minority. I still like to tinker with stuff but won't until it's broken and prefer buying products with very long shelf life over getting new for the sake of being new.
@@frommatorav1to be fair, that’s a good point. I’m still a fan of passive speakers and an amp but I’m totally open to all in one or active speakers etc. there is a lot to be said for an easy life
Hi FI brand is applicable only to perceived sound. Original sound produced by humans talk in presence, real instruments and real happenings in natural loudness levels around are Hi Fi. If audio system produces the same sound we may call it Hi FI perception .
We do not need to know any technical data, no reqiurements about treatment or shape or color, materials because they do not assure Hi FI. The gear should not be branded Hi Fi because it is not producing own acoustic sounds (except it's own Hi FI noise by operation) - Gear goal is only to convert electrical impulses, not to make own sounds. . If is it bad sound than we sholudn't call it "no Hi FI gear" only say that "sound is not Hi FI" and do not state opinion about gear - accidentaly it may be perfectly made .
@@frommatorav1 I have to agree in general. However, I have a Sonos Arc and Sub Gen 3 for TV, and a Bluesound PowerNode and Focal 826 towers for music. The Sonos is ok when streaming music, but the Bluesound / Focal combo is so much more dynamic and open. If you told me I had to choose one set for both TV and audio, I'd choose the BS / Focal. That said, of course the Sonos setup works great for TV since it supports ATMOS, and has voice control and TruePlay. I'm just lucky I can have both systems.
For the record, I am very open to an all-in-one system that handles both duties well.
I have two sonos play 5s in stereo pair with a turntable attached they sound amazing is it classed as hi fi I think so it compares to my friends £1800 set up and some genres sound better on my 5s 🎵🎶🎵🎶
I got long winded in another comment, about “Hi Fi”. So apologies for another one.
I think the title of this video is profound. The term “Hi Fi” is outdated, obsolete. Hi Fi was a term to describe a technology introduced with the the ability to create a more advanced recreation of something (mostly music) we heard with our own ears.
Music is emotion!! It can make us happy. It can make us cry. It can energize us. It can relax us. Music(sound) is beautiful. We live in a time where we are lucky to have so many technological advances that allow us to experience the wonders of sound in so many ways, styles and places. I echo Andrew’s phrase with a twist “the only person that has to like the way you experience sound is you”, and if it makes you happy, then that is Hi Fi to you!
Hifi is subjective.
A lot of individuals in this hobby will go to there deaths for the products they support.
It all depends on your goals. I have a dedicated room. 5.4.2 system. But if I was in a living room, then something different. People who have a dedicated room, they want certain things.
adjettive - love it 😊