X-LS Encore Review! End Game DIY Hi-Fi!?
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- Опубликовано: 12 сен 2024
- X-LS Encore Review! End Game DIY Hifi!?
Check out the X-LS: bit.ly/2Zkujb8
Mike Lundy: uilleamaudio.com/
Studio monitor information: email Danny: info@gr-research.com or call directly, 1-940-592-3400
Peters Channel: bit.ly/2Zkuh30
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Your reviews just keep getting better and better. Thanks!
Can't wait to get mine. I've been following Ron and Danny for a while. These guys know what they are doing
U think ?
It makes me smile when I hear your kids in the other room playing!
I think it would have been interesting comparing the Xls with other speakers you have reviewed like the Buchardt S400 or SVS Ultra, just so people have something to compare it too. There is only so much words can describe
GR Research puts up videos on a regular basis giving you this type information. But I warn you, he will likely gore your ox. SVS is a case in point. Cheap crap in a fancy box per Danny.
This is a chicken and egg situation. Danny came up with the DIY kits to give people an alternative to rebuilding the crossovers in their overpriced, brand-name speakers.
You're totally right on the paper cone drivers! Cello is my favorite instrument and it only truly sounds proper on paper cone drivers. I've heard cello on many type of drivers and it does sounds amazing on other drivers but the tone and texture on the paper cone driver make it so much more palpable and realist. Keep up the good work!
You keep making me build more speakers. My X-Static’s kit is now going to my sons new remolded house. I’m using Is hard wood floors and stain As the outer shell covering on the speakers to match his room decor. Now the X-LS ENCOR Plus a set or two of those big open baffle towers. And build the open baffle subwoofers. One set of clothes box subwoofer for the small room
Fantastic review again but we need x-statik speakers and thanks again for the amazing videos and high quality videos
Thanks! Yeah I would like to take that X-Statik for a spin someday.
I really doubt a 2-way will be the End Game Speaker..... I mean, why not more.... 3-Way or more?
I’m totally with you! I’m currently struggling to choose between the X-Encore MTM, the CSS, and the DIYSG Apollo-7 MTM. I’ve heard fantastic things about all three speakers, but never anyone comparing them.
I've been bitching internally about bass texture and resolution for a while, glad I found this video.
Very interesting to see an assessment of DIY speakers and also to focus on the components. I decided a while back not to believe so much in "the design magic of our genius engineers overcoming modest component specs" and to zero on in the components. Case in point the Holo Audio May Dac you more recently reviewed, that has specs that blow most Dacs out of the water both on paper and in reality (inc. separate chassis for dual LPSUs, dual mono double R2R ladders and highly engineered PLL input stage). Similarly in the CD transport world, the Jay's Audio CDT2 Mk3 (Philips CDM-4 reader, OCXO clock, i2s output). With regard to the GR Research speakers I wonder how they match up against the ATC speakers with their formidable 3 inch dome midrange woofers? That is a litmus test most speakers crack against.
Great review, Ron! Now I know that if got this kit that I would need the top of the line parts as I’m a soundstage guy as well. Keep it up with the great videos, man! One suggestion I have is while the way you break down the different frequency range performance does give one an idea of what the speaker sounds like as a whole, it might be nice to hear you talk about it from a more broad standpoint and in summary. Thanks!
Great idea and feedback! Thanks Sean!
Great analysis! You answered all my questions. Well done.
Danny has these now in his completed speaker section. I bought the fully upgraded version and my choice of cherry finish. For me building wasn't an option. I'm currently using the Davanti completed speakers at 399 on Danny's design and also in the completed speaker section and must say, they are not a slouch. I have an older Parasound preamp and A23 amp which can push most anything. With a Bluesound Vault and node for inputs. I can't wait for the Encores to arrive. Thanks for your review.
How are you liking them now that some time has passed. I'm also thinking of buying a fully upgraded completed pair.
@@bgroovin1343 The fit and finish is perfect! They sound better when I got them situated. 12x24 room with doors in the corners behind the speakers so the speakers are 6 foot apart. I have them toed out a 3-5 degrees. I highly recommend them.
12:30 Paper cones. So nice to hear about this topic. Paper cone formulations were a guarded secret back in the day. Paper is the only cone driver material I can live with long term, though I would love to hear what Zellaton speakers sound like.
Polk Audio, as far as I know, was one of the first speaker companies to understand the importance of the crossover. In the late 70s, I watched the Model 7a and 10 beat the competition on the retail floor with a decent box, very good drivers (a bespoke small woofer and a Peerless dome tweeter), with a well-designed crossover devoid of sand resistors, iron core inductors, and electrolytic caps. It was hilarious to hear this at their price point. An A/B would often go like "Sound stage", "No sound stage".
Great review. Spot on. Have you listened to the x-static speakers? You mentioned the nx monitor but how do they compare to the x-static’s?
Where do you stand in comparison between the X-LS Encore vs the CSS Criton 1TD-X?
I just build my first one. It sounds AMAZING. I design by myself (except the cabinet finger picked); spent less than $200. I think worth at least $300.
You got $50 dollar speaker.
Thanks for finally giving us a review on these speakers. But I have two questions for you:
First, are you basing your review on Mike Lundy's suped up version or the diy build you said you did? Secondly, you mentioned that you were going to compare the DIY to Lundy's version but you didn't unless you mean to do a third video.
Hey Greg, Yes- these impressions are based on these specific pair that Mike Lundy sent over. They are upgraded as much as I would imagine the X-LS can be upgraded to. Granted most of the things I said in the video apply to stock XLS up to the points I made about staging - which is where Mikes takes the lead. I hope this helps a little? If not, let me know and ill clarify.
@@Newrecordday2013 Thx Ron for clarifying. Yeah that snapshot of the crossover from Lundy's is pretty extreme.
Are you planning on any more XLS videos or is that it?
Man that NX Studio Monitor seems special. I wonder if Lundy is building extreme versions of those as well?
I’m sure he can build something - he’s very talented. In regards to more videos on the encore - yes - actually working on something tomorrow for you all.
You're right. As a product manager in a different industry, it's all about market price, competitors and what one is one trying to acheiving in terms of product, messaging and positioning.
Great review. Been in contact with Danny & Peter re possibilities but now you mention this "other"
speaker (NX Studio) and I am REALLY interested. Sorry Ron, but I don't see a link. Could you provide one?
I also do not see the speaker at GR Research. Open baffle tweeter !!!!!!!!!! I'm sold. Thanks, big thumbs up!!!!
Great review, I have been really looking forward to it as I am really interested in building a pair of these. However, I think I would really like the studio monitor much more. Any hints you can give on when they might be available? Soonish?
You are essentially talking about viewing a speaker as a system rather than as a collection of individual parts. The great thing about "system thinking" is that is where "the whole is [becomes] greater than the sum of its parts".
I will say Danny at GR-RESEARCH really knows audio i built his av3's and a servo sub and absolutely love them i also enjoy your channel as well. I have a question for you have you ever heard the album Al Dimeola elegant gypsy?
Ron have you ever listened to ascend acoustics CBM-170 SE ? I haven't but I've been looking for a review of them. Maybe Danny has measured a pair of them
I have Encores with all options and the plat pack , amazing sound. Best ever.
So, I'm currently in the process of building the X-LS Encores and can't wait to hear them. Which of Danny's subwoofer kits do you recommend to pair with them?
@gmail name Right. But Danny offers a few different models/configurations. 🤷♂️
Danny also has a sealed servo sub kit with a single 12” driver that has output all the way down to 10Hz.
Also, Rythmik Audio offers the same sub in a commercial version the call the F12G as well as a mid bass module with two 8” drivers that plays down to 30Hz.
Amazing Ron!, thank you from your amazing content. I really like to know your opinión and comparison of the LGK 1.0 vs the Soundsomelliers. Please! Best regards from Argentina. Take care!
Ron those are an awesome looking pair of speakers! Great price tag also. Have a great one man!
Accurate review and description of their performance. I have the floor-standing version of these speakers with almost all of the upgrades - also built by Mike Lundy. Fantastic speakers and builder. (They have more bass over the bookshelf version if you are wondering but would still benefit from subs.)
Hello Ron - hank you for the review f the XL-S Encore ‘Extreme’. I wonder if these speakers need to be brought out into the room 6 to 9 as does the og? Also does Mike sell the cross over update separately?
I am a bit confused why f the higher level crossover is better than Danny’s upgrade, then why doesn’t offer it as a 2nd higher even upgrade??
YES!!!! Waiting for Danny to email me back to get the drivers :)
Heh!
Danny: Hey everybody!
I have them, with full upgrades, and yes i can say they could be endgame bookshelves, coming from a picky kef ls50 and meta owner, and revels etc. These are incredible for the money, no weakness, and love the soft dome. Theyll rival nearly any other bookshelf period.
Try Epos ES14
I'm about to buy the metas but am seriously considering buying a full upgrade version of these instead. Especially since I can get them premade now. Are you still happy with them?
@@bgroovin1343 I had the order final ls50, and the metas, liked em both but...for nearfield their very very good like the LS3/5a, but for big rooms not so much, I've found I like the kef q350 better than the ls50 hands down, waaay more low end, midrange magic and top ends a little warmer, keg q350 wins, but the encores with all options on crossovers will outclass any of these mentioned, that's my opinion and have compared them side by side, it's not close, the revel m106 and q350 are the closest to the encores for me but still not as musical and can't get as loud at higher levels, other than the q350 having a heftier low end that can dig a little deeper, it's totally up to u in the end.
what kind og amplifier do you recommend for the X-LS Encore ? im almoste done with my speaker.
Thank you for your last comment on the NX-Studio monitors, that is what I was exactly looking for. I want the obsolete best and I wasn't sure between -encore and -sutudio monitors. By the way when are you going to do a review on the nx-studio ?? ;)
The sonic capacitors cost an extra $120, I don't understand how that's worth it over the regular Erse capacitors
It isn't
@@edwardbalboa5528 thanks, I'm actually leaning towards the DIY 3.1A, but that's after they put it back in stock and my Pinnacle PN8+ dies or someone buys it
Hey Ron thanks for doing this video! Great job! Keep up the good work! Loved my XLS!
ive learned something about my ears an listening. i have to be properly hydrated or else the 1.5k kills me. once water intake is normal.... then... all sounds better....
Hey Ron, love watching your videos. I have a question, if you were given a choice between the X-LS Encore and the CSS 1 TD-X, which would you choose?
Encore
@@Newrecordday2013 Thank you!
Ron, why don’t you do a review of the NX-Studios? That would be very interesting...
I actually have a pair here that I’ll be building and reviewing. It will happen.
New Record Day great!!! When do you think you will have the review ready? Will you use the H-frame dual openbaffle subs?
Waiting on some final details for a potential flat pack that will he offered to you guys... should be pretty soon!
New Record Day A flat pack for the NX Studios....?????
If that is right that would be great...!!!
Great review!
Wath is the difference between those and the top sls?
Ron! How does the XLS work with the Audiolab 6000, that you had/have in the back? Drove the effortless or? Keep up your great work.
Try to review the default kit. Not Mike’s version.
Hi Ron. I appreciate the breakdown of the frequency ranges, that’s great. You didn’t actually describe the bass of the speaker itself. I’m left with the impression that this speaker is useless without a pair of Danny’s subs. Is that what you are trying to convey? I promise this is a genuine question. With love, Ken
Actually that’s a fair question! The bass is decent on the encores but I wouldn’t say it’s world class on its own specifically talking about how low they go. If you are fine with mid 40s to low 50s, great! If not, you really do need subs!
New Record Day, Thanks Ron!
I'll take this one.
The X-LS Encore woofer is stuffed into a smaller than optimal air space to give you everything else at a high level, but in a small package. It is solid down to about 60Hz and is -3db at 55Hz. If you want lower extension then simply build the X-SLS version of the kit. This is the same speaker, but it utilizes an optimal ported box in a small floor standing version. This version allows the bottom end to extend down to a -3db of 45Hz.
Danny Richie Thanks! The X-SLS sounds like the better fit for me in my small room. Does something similar exist for the NX-Studio? With love, Ken
@@kenstephens2955 We're going to be offering a stand for it with powered woofers.
Texture in the bass. Mj billy jean, when it's right that bass line just makes you wanna slide across the room 😜
Great review Ron. Enjoyed it thoroughly. You mentioned sound clips pending, but what of measurements?
Where is the link to the studio monitor?
Danny's GR Research website is a bit behind the times. If you want info go to the AudioCircle forums and they are there. Plus Danny is old skool so just pick up the phone and call him. If I recall the NX Studio Mini Monitor is going north of $900 but I do believe it comes with the baffles and possibly the flat pack for the price.
Great video! Are those H-frame subs appropriate for home theater? I like a lot of output during action sequences.
Sure, they can work for home theater, no problem!
If I only have 2 ft to place the speaker from the rear wall are the XLS encore still worth getting ? Will they sound good ?
This sounds like my speaker sound preference .Neutral and transparent.
The title suggests this is a pair of X-LS Encore that everybody can get. But 4:33 this is actually a review of 'Mikes' (whoever that is) custom version?
Meaning - you can have Mike custom make you the same XLS encore as reviewed.
@@Newrecordday2013 So, Ron, I understand the question. It would have been helpful at the beginning to provide some "context and background" info as to how Mike's XLS Encore is different (in whatever ways) than a standard GR-Research X-LR speaker. I didn't really know what you were talking about either, and after watching the video, I still don't know how these are different than a "stock" XLS. So...some VOC (Voice of the Customer) for your channel: When reviewing a speaker like this, which is a custom mod of an exising model, please lay a foundation of understanding for the viewer that establishes CONTEXT. So that the viewer understands how this speaker is different than one might get from purchasing a kit from Danny. That way your viewer will be to obtain INSIGHT about this specific speaker and use that insight to make an informed decision whether they would find it a _value proposition._ Many thanks and keep up the great work. Cheers, Stephen.
Nice video Ron can u do a video on servo sub dual 12” in H frame and w frame
What’s the Accoutstic diff
Also in stereo and single channel dual driver what’s diff
Also servo and non servo
Sorry many questions but no youtube r has done done this yet
excellent work. it sounds like they would b similar to a good set of studio monitors?
I've used peerless drivers in other projects and have always had good results.
Thank you 😎
"bust out your checkbook, your gunna need it" 😂
Yep, no listening fatigue.
I first experienced this with Danny-recommended BG deep cup ribbon tweeters.
Have you ever listened to one of the Rythmik subs to compare to your open baffles? I doubt I can go with open baffles (3 cats), but I might be strongly considering one of the dual woofer rythmiks (G22 with opposed 12" drivers) as a sub with much less "box".
Maybe you could cover the open sides with (an open frame with) acoustic fabric or speakerfoam.
Can you compare these to the Maggie's? I know it's apples and oranges, but any effort would be great!
Yikes. Thats a strange comparison...
I'd like to take a second to talk about "you just want it like it is, then you can go in the direction of solid state", solid state transitory alter there resistance with temperature (well everything does but solid state amps undergo greater relative changes) this means the signal changes depending on how hard the amp is working which will vary throughout your music. Tubes have a much more consistent temperature control, aolid state amps that sounds like tubes usually achieve this through better thermal management.
Why is this important? Well it tells us that measurements alone don't tell the whole story, if a more consistent amp sounds like tubes it suggests that tubes are at least in some way, a more accurate representation. I am not saying that tubes are objectively the better amp. I'm simply saying that solid state amps are not perfect reproductions and tubes are not just adding pleasant distortion
Man that video was tightly edited. Really like it! Awaiting the toasty guy to pop up in the right corner. Very enjoyable!
Thanks!
"Check out the XL-S" link is dead.
You are totally right that most audiophiles have never heard bass with texture and tone.
Nice overview - should there be a right and left speaker - where the tweeter is offset to the side opposite of the other speaker?
Hello Ron, just putting the finishing touches in these. Just waiting on the tube connectors that have been in back order. Question, if these go down to 55 hz, where, in your opinion, should I crossover the woofer? Thanks in advance.
Forget 55hz ..... More like 100hz at best
@@edwardbalboa5528 Mine seem to do pretty well, but I did cross over my subs at about 80-100Hz. I also noted some break up at high db levels close to THX reference but that might just be the speaker's limitations. Still, I'm pretty happy with them but I'm going floor standers from now on.
...FYI the link to GRS is broken!
Welcome to HIFI my friend, bust out your checkbook, you’re going to need it!
Who has a checkbook anymore lol😂😂😂?
I would like to see you review the xstatics
Hey man, always appreciate your candid productions; however, how would they rock (AC/DC style) against say the Polk Lsim series in a comparable size? I haven’t had the pleasure but, thought I’d put it out there, with their reputation. Serious literal music therapy 🤯 at about 120 dB works. Angus and Malcolm were busy ☹️ Have a good day mate ✌🏽🇦🇺
I love these with classic rock man! They are fantastic with that stuff.
would be interested to hear your thoughts on using DSP on your base notes?
Great job. My group back at home have been modifying and upgrading crossover parts because we know manufacturers try to save some $ on these. They do work. Danny is right on the point that even if speakers measure the same doesnt mean they sound the same. Thats why i hate people who measure too much. Sound character and musicality cannot be measured only heard. Lets see some dynaudios ron🙂
Is your name, Ron?
Hi Ron, would you pair them with the Quad 34 pre-amp and Quad 306 power amp (AB amp, 50 watts per channel into 8Ω)? Thanks in advance! 🙌
Yes, absolutely
They are just about the same price as a pair of KEF LS50 META. Can you compare?
Great Review; also super impressing work
In short: how do they compare to the black X-LS (with Sonicaps Upgrade only I think they are).
Also could you review the avos you talked about in the past?
Only one additional question. Personal hearing. I have about 80% lose at the top end. Is it worth it to buy good stuff?
the bass drop in Bad Guy, not really a good test. i can hear the distortion using my laptop and my $10 Panasonic earbuds
RON, great review!
Elephant in the room: how did these compare to the CSS speakers you reviewed? WE NEED TO KNOW
Yes, we need to get an answer, please Ron please!!!!
I'd like to know as well!
I didn´t really understand... is this speaker in the background the max version of the DIY kit from the homepage? Or is there added something else?
Ok what's inside?
did you mention woofer or tweeter size???if not why?? thanks
Do you think these speakers will match well with a class D Amplifier as I'm afraid that can be fatiguing or too analytical. Can you tell us your thoughts?
Ron, can this be my end game speaker for my modest set-up?
Here's my set-up match:
VPI Prime Scout with Dynavector 20x2 cart.
Sutherland KC Vibe phonostage
Musical Fidelity M5Si integrated.
So when's that measurement rig gonna be up and running? I miss having objective data to chew.
Shouldn’t be much longer - maybe a couple weeks at most!
That's good news
@@chrisvinicombe9947 did u see it ?
Where is the review of the floorstanding version of the xls Encore
I'm trying to decide between the encores and the elac UniFi 2.0 bookshelves. I've only seen one shootout between the two and the conclusion was that the encores won except in the mid-range. The thought was that there is more detail and transparency in the elac but kind of a creamy smoothness in the encores. Would you say that this is an accurate comparison in your point of view?
Did elac choose Andrew Jones or Danny ?
@@edwardbalboa5528 Well, Andrew Jones, obviously. Who knows what Elac is going to do now that Andrew Jones is moving on? It is a fascinating world though, isn't it? How often do we actually know who designs this stuff for companies? For example, who designs Cambridge or MacIntosh electronics and maintains their similar sound in most all their products? Some companies may keep certain designers on tap. But, still, do they have some kind of a benchmark unreleased product that all their other products have to sound like? I'd love to have the inside scoop.
Thank you 🙏🏽 pure music for miles Davis Etta James, basically non compressed music. Put on any song by Steely Dan and you should hear a whisper coming up from nothing
How would you compare the upgraded Encores vs the NX-Studios?
Thats a really nice looking finish?
Someday I will get these.
So the truth aspect on these speakers must be like the playback on a Denon DCM-460. Many people don't like it but it's only telling you exactly what's on the CD.
Could be, never heard that particular model.
Hi Ron, how do these compare to CSS 2TD? Thanks!
Regarding bass...how about a good infinite baffle manifold system?
So in other words these speakers are neutral, not like PMC DB1GOLD, super bright, extreme micro details, 80Khz beyond human hearing, ultra precise extreme high treble, thsn Klopsch rpm600?
I'm looking for razor sharp detail like klipsch rpm600, but much sharper like PMC5.22.
IKR, when I first heard those Billie Ellish tracks with distortion mixed in on my main system I had to pause and double check with my headphone rig just to make sure my dear woofers/amplifier hadn't croaked. :p
When are the Studio Monitors dropping?
Ron, this video is both exciting and question raising. Is there a DIY version of this speaker ? Meaning buying the woofer and tweeter from GRR, and the crossover and flatpack from Lundy?
Not really. You can have flat packs made by Peter Rawlings His channel is in the description. I think mike is more interested in just doing it all himself for you if you decide to go that route.
@@Newrecordday2013 thanks for the clarification..
We do sell this model as a DIY kit. gr-research.com/x-lsencorekit.aspx
@@dannyrichie9743 Danny, Hi. Do you sell the upgraded crossover with the foil inductors, KPCU caps, etc. similar to what's in this complete speaker?
Yes, I can provide all of that.
HI Ron, Would you characterize these loudspeakers as transparent, uncolored or neutral ?
All of the above to be honest!
Great review Ron as usual! I am interested in building the H frame open baffle subs you mentioned in the video. Can you pls point me to the kit and cabinet drawings if possible?
Sure - here is the page on Danny’s site. gr-research.com/diysubwooferkits.aspx
I am watching this in 2022,i don`t find any wattage specs for this XLS Encore speaker to match it to a amp.
I hate to say it but at $1800 that's a huge spend for diy especially for those drivers. At that price point you are competing against some of the best speaker components you can buy. Tons of diy options at places like madisound which have more range.
talking to much... little value
What customizations would you recommend i get from the kit if i'm trying to build a speaker (pair) for $500 that compare to the Klipsch 660m?
What's your opinion on the klipsch sixes?