Review of the NAD M33 on HIFI+ th-cam.com/video/J8zrM1QVDxE/w-d-xo.html Link to The Absolute Sound Kef video th-cam.com/video/rOGI9YpbCK0/w-d-xo.htmlsi=qgjJXDsmLCGAMsAK Non-affiliated link altitudoaudio.ca/ TH-cam song mentioned in this video: th-cam.com/video/4ONfrkskNp4/w-d-xo.html
So if a person were pairing the R3 Meta with one or the other of the Exposure 3010 (a little on the romantic side of neutral) or the Naim XS-2 (PRAT to spare), which would be the better choice? I also have an SMSL AO-300 but I assume that's a hard no. :D
I have the Hegel 390 powering my R3 Metas. I've owned the previous version as well. I really enjoyed the R3's, but the new ones are definitely a different animal. Right out of the box I went WOW! They'll just get better as time goes by. I can sit for several hours at a time and just never tire of the sound. I have the indigo blue with the matching stands. You have to get the stands, sexy for sure. The color is much darker than the pictures and videos show. I've been doing this HiFi thing for over 50 years, and my wonderful wife has been there for most of it. She could care less about sound. She likes her music; doesn't care how she hears it. When she walked into the room after I got them playing, she says, "those sound nice". 1st time ever! I don't know what that says, but it sure says something! Highly recommended.
I’ve found your comment really amusing as I’m in an almost identical situation (I’m in my seventies) and I’m sure that it’s the first time that my my wife has really been impressed when I’ve changed speakers, not only by their sound but their appearance as well. I’ve had my walnut finish R3 Meta speakers for exactly two weeks, paired up with my 20 year old Cyrus Pre X, SmartPowers and PSX’R’s and you know you’re really enjoying your music when you simply don’t want to turn it off. Happy listening.
May I ask if you've ever had Maggie's in your audio system? so, what's the big difference between your KEFs and Maggie's? Thank you. No. I'm located in the 3rd world. No KEFs around
I have a pair of blue R3 Metas. I am driving them with a Vac CPA 1 preamp and a PASS X250.8 amp. These are spectacular speakers that present an incredible sound stage. Maybe the best imaging l have heard.
Thanks for the video. I recently bought the KEF R3 Meta. For many years, I owned a pair of KEF 103/4 (with KUBE) and like the KEF sound and presentation. I am using the Cambridge Audio CXA81 and am very happy with the combination - I think a British speaker deserves a British amp.
I purchased the R3 Meta speakers (in the walnut finish) late September 2023 powered by my 22 year old Cyrus amplification, the Cyrus pre/power/psx-r combination handled the 4ohm load with ease at all volume levels and drew unexpected praise from my wife and others, none of whom have the least bit of interest in hi-fi but do enjoy their own music. A few weeks ago l traded in my Cyrus amps, which was a pre planned move due to their age (not to mention mine!) and I’ve purchased the Exposure 3510 intergrated which uses just one shelf in my rack, rather than the three needed for the Cyrus’s. The amp and speakers are pretty much run in now, but even out of its box the Exposure just simply sounded right from the word go and has really impressed not only myself but my family as well. It’s certainly dynamic and because of this I’m really enjoying low level listening, late evenings etc without disturbing anyone else and at normal listening levels I’m enjoying my music like never before. So the Exposure/ Kef and the Cyrus/ Kef combinations both get a great big thumbs up from myself and from my family. Happy listening.
Audiophiles are a strange bunch. If you adjust the capacitance of a circuit to enhance or diminish the bass or treble, they walk away complaining about lack of directness or purity. But if you slightly change the capacitance in an amp to make it brighter or warmer, they will buy one amp for this and one amp for that. I really wish you guys had not driven treble, bass and eq out of integrated amps and pre-amps with this craziness. I would trust your good reviews if you ever gave a bad review. That is why everyone always asks what you really think, because we have no idea from all these positive videos.
It is not easy to keep all variables in perspective at all times. No matter how well versed in a field someone is. Simplifying the System is one way to go. Synergy though is difficult to achieve or predict ahead of actually hearing the gear. It is near impossible IMO. Which is a the issue with simple, no ability to tweak Gear. I would have said at one time cables don’t make a difference. That changed after owning my current phono stage, playing with the resistance and inductance to get the sound I like, I realized I was way wrong. These are all factors that can also be affected by Cables. Wanting it to be simple to avoid all variables possible is what people want to strive for with the removal of tone controls etc.. How do you remove the variables, but get the sound tweaked how you want it, without going through equipment to hopefully find synergy? Luck is my guess. Tone Controls etc. can add that doubt or lack of Piece of Mind. Simple gear or tweakable gear with controls can both have issues. Doubt of Purity with controls to tweak or difficulty matching gear to your taste. Seemingly there is not a good solution. That can be true. The only solution is to be content, enjoy what you have, and let your gear & equipment make you happy. As far as bad reviews. They are out there. Most times it is just like a Good review. Subjective, filled with variables, and not worth anything more than a good review in the end. The factor that separates them is negativity. We are watching videos on youtube to be entertained. A Minority may want once and awhile to hear a negative review so they can feel they are not being lied to or a variety of other reasons, but most don’t. So for a reviewer to cater to a small minority because at the time the viewer might need affirmation or confidence in what they are watching, will never become a standard. It would be selfish to ask for it IMO. As if the people who create content should cater to a viewer specifically, allows it to become less about the reviewers opinion, and more about the person asking to be catered to. Most of us are not interested in that at any given time. Great thing is TH-cam allows people to make their own channel, and produce near whatever content they like. So asking for content for you while not just making it for yourself, and others you think also want it, is a missed opportunity on that persons part. Enjoy TH-cam don’t demand it cater to you type of deal. Happy Listening is the best advice any Audiophile can give to another.
Thanks Thomas - a great comparison review, and I'm glad you highlighted the difference the amplifier can make, which I knew in theory, but which you illustrated very well with your descriptions and sound samples (to some degree given I am not "in the room" but listening on IEM's via TH-cam). It has confirmed what I suspected, that my speakers could do with an upgrade....oh lord!
I guess I got lucky. I bought my Kef R3 Meta 3 weeks ago and they sound absolutely gorgeous with my Accuphase E211 paired with the Music Hall Ikura. Just beautiful. They constantly find new music in the music I've been listening to for over 30 years.
I have a pair of R3 metas and I am using them together with Hegel H190 and KC62 Sub with Gustard R26 dac and they sound incredibly detailed and warm with these electronics
Fascinating video! The demos show a dramatic difference in the sound of power amps. Back to back it is so clear. I think you just sold a bunch of Atoll amps and my runner up was the BC Acoutique. Also brave sole to confidently report on the fact cables matter.
I have the R3 Meta, Hegel H190, 2 Rel T5x subs, Denafrips 12th dac, and use audioquest kabels, the song Stand by me sounds great on this system No fatiqe sounds at All, Hegel and Kef is a good match,
My Old Luxman M-03 come out from my hifi cave for sell it to a friend who want that amp badly. But first I have give it a try. Wow, my R3 meta respond with lots of power, resolution, details and sweet midrange. 😊
🙋♂️ THOMAS,IT HAS OCCURRED TO ME 🤔 THAT YOU ARE BECOMING THE MASTER CHEF 🧑🍳 COOKING UP EQUIPMENT AND SERVING DIFFERENT PEOPLE’S TASTES …AND YOUR HONESTY HAS SERVED YOU WELL AND YOUR STORIES ADD TO THE RECIPE 😋💚💚💚😊
I tell you sir, I haven't watched your videos in quite a while but that's a nice bokeh you have there. No seriously man video quality is significantly improves since the last time I watched your videos, congratulations.
Stand by me was “buttery smooth “ thru my KEF 104/2 , Parasound amp, & Schiit tube pre amp. Thanks for recommending Music -Travel-Love sound track! I’ve added them to my playlist
Yes, out of all the amps I tested that day with the Meta, the Galion SS amp class A was the least shouty with that song. It was a design choice from me to tone down the attack a bit for excellent smoothness.
@@siamxiii My NAD M33 video will be coming soon on The Absolute Sound. It can overall rival the Atoll IN400 but there are significant differences. For example, the M33 has a leaner midrange but a more airy top end.
Using speaker cables Steve Huff recommended. 30 bucks .14 gauge is a must with these speakers. Old pair of Kimber PBJ cables. Sounds freaking fantastic. Less than 300 bucks. Topping D90se DAC. LINE MAGNETIC 508IA 1300.00 IN TUBE UPGRADES. Sounds great 😊
I love your videos! There is a teachable moment at the 4:50 mark, best (anecdotal) case of sighted listening results yet. To compare the sound alone of any two or three items you have to listen level matched and blind. Level-matching may not play nearly as big of a role with cables of course, haven't heard anyone so brazen to say custom cables are 'louder'. I've also yet to see anyone have the slightest difficulty deciding using sighted-listening 'tests' (ahem). You must choose between comfort (sighted listening) or the unmitigated truth (blind). With expensive gear why fool yourself?
"Shoutiness" could well be what the traditional British speaker designers were always trying to avoid with their slight dip in the crossover ("presence") region. A 1-2 db dip there won't hurt anything -- and might do some good. The emphasis on perfectly flat measurements isn't always the best thing.
Fantastic review Thomas! I am looking to buy a pair of bookshelf speakers and these do look tempting. Will those speakers be a good match with my CARY A306 power amplifier, it's a Class D? 👍
Hey Thomas-love your informative videos. My amp is an integrated Cary SI-300d. That's a powerhouse 300 watts per channel with very clean and clear definition in the sound. How do you think the R3 Metas would perform with it? Or the R7 Metas?
Was at a dealer’s place recently and he decided to just try out some RCA interconnects. We started out with a pair that costs like $400 then tried out a pair that costs about $2,000. There was a very audible difference. I’m not saying the more expensive one sounded better etc. Not that. It just sounded different. Almost as though speakers are a different pair. It’s definitely not psychoacoustics. The sound was just different. ps I’m not a cable fanboy. No exotic cables in my system.
Damn, I saw the M33 in the list of amps, and was looking forward to hearing about the match as I'm considering the Kef R3, but there are no local resellers and I don't have the opportunity to try them with my NAD
Thanks for a great year, I respect your knowledge and your reviews. Im very curious of the R3 Meta, like the transparency and detailed sound. Today I have a Class D poweramp NAD C298 (purify-tech). How would you describe the result/match of that combo? I know it’s a matter of taste…Or anyone else in the forum that have any experience of that pairing. Also curios to pair it with B 400 Mk2, sure I will get a totally different sound result then. Happy new year 😊
That song plays just fine on my meagre set. MA Bronze 100 and NAD C3338. Oh, and all my cables are decent and heavy guage and cost less than 50 bucks total
Hiya, Thomas! Nice meeting you today. I was hoping to chat with you a bit more, but then I lost ya and couldn't find you again before closing time. Hopefully you'll be around tomorrow... I'll be back to check out floor number 3. (I wanted to do the third floor last, because it seemed to be the best of the floors... but of course, by the time I got there, I was out of time! I lollygagged too much on the lower levels. lol) Again, great to finally meet you, and I hope to see you again tomorrow (Sunday, Oct 23). Cheers!
Probably hard to find something that absolutely sucks these days. You have to say “ sucks? Compared to what?” I don’t watch reviews like a shopping catalog, I watch for entertainment and to keep up with what’s new. I like looking at super car mags and videos also, but not because I’m buying a Bugatti. It’s fun folks don’t be so serious. I trust ya Thomas:)
I can definitely hear the differences in amps with the R3M you described with the Atoll retaining the detail and airiness whilst filling out the body. I've been trying to decide on speakers for my second system and narrowed it down to Buchardt S400 MKII vs KEF R3 Meta...tough decision. Already own the S400 MKII and I like their placement flexibility (I have a small room so can't pull speakers out) and bass without having to add a sub. I also wish they had a touch more air which the KEF R3 M seem to have. Also aesthetics matter to me. S4 MK II look nice, but the KEF R3 Meta more polished and luxurious.
KEF R3 Meta have a problem: 3.2 Ohms at 150 Hz (Erin's measurements). And true sensitivity of 86 dB -> they need power. SS amplifier > 100 watts at 4 Ohms or high current (class A) to play good recordings. Atoll IN400A has watts and current but a lot of harmonics too at -65 dB and -80 dB, from H2... H20!!! -> UNREAL sound. Always with the odd ones of greater magnitude than the even ones, which is the opposite of ideal. Polish review, to English: [ Atoll IN400 Atoll is a representative of the transistor fraction, in this test it is fighting for the primacy of the most powerful device with Luxman and it is winning this fight, although at a certain cost... The power of the device at 8 ohms is 177 W and 2 x 169 W. At 4 ohms we can count on up to 272 W and 2 x 261 W. However, such results will be available at a relatively high input voltage, reaching 0.9 V. In addition to high power, we also get, unfortunately, a high noise level, which reaches up to ...74 dB. In this respect, the Atolla puts many lamps to shame. The dynamics "lowered" by high noise cannot reach the limit of 100 dB. In the frequency response (Fig. 1), the highest frequencies are slightly weak, ... 3 dB falls on 66 kHz at 8 ohms and 62 kHz at 4 ohms, while the performance in the low-frequency range up to the borderline 10 Hz is exemplary. Fig. 2 shows the tendency to generate a series of distortions in which odd ... third (...61 dB), fifth (...64 dB) and seventh (...66 dB) dominate, visible up to 7 p.m. inclusive, all above ...80 dB. Among the even numbers, the strongest one - the second ... has a level of ...66 dB, and the next ones up to the eighteenth are above ...90 dB. High distortion is also reflected in the graph in Fig. 3, the THD+N level above 0.1% is maintained throughout the entire range of useful output power, the only consolation is the flat shape of the characteristics guaranteeing a similar level of distortion in a large power range. The curve for 8 ohms looks slightly better. For a high-power transistor, the damping factor is also low. In terms of measurement, apart from high power, the IN400 has little to show for it. ]
Hi Thomas, cool video! I can see how much work you have done to make something like this. Speakers are really good and many amplifiers can be used as a great setup! How cables work I will do demo at Toronto Audiofest 2023. Room 321. I did same thing with Eversolo DMP-A6 at Pacific Audio Show 2023.
Listening to Stand By Me on my system is borderline shouty, leaning more towards the unpleasant side. Also happen to be listening to that track through my KEF R3 Meta's. The rest of my system specs: -Moon Simaudio 250i V2 integrated -Eversolo DMP-A6 DAC Streamer -Nordost Blue Heaven Speaker and IEC power cables -Mogami interconnects Honestly, this is the first track that I came across on my system that sounded this shouty. P.S: i purchased a demo unit from Leonid at Altitudo Audio in the walnut finish. I have a strange suspicion that I have the very unit you were listening to.
Hi, Nice review. I have Atoll in100 signature(100W 8ohm, 140w 4ohm). I like good bass punch and clean precise treble (but not fatigue). How about the pairing with this speaker? It would be a great help for me. TIA
Hi thomas , thanks for all your amazing reviews . I own a pair of kef r5meta with 87 sensitivity and consider buying a integrated tube amp. is a 2X45 Watts per channel enough to drive them ? i think buying the Welssinton R800i, What do you think in this choice ? many many thanks for your answer
my current music/home theater setup is Kef q350 LR...kef 650c..kef t101 surrounds and two svs pb1k's. powered by just a yamaha rx v485. I can get a deal on some r3 metas but I dont know how to do my upgrade path from here. I need simplicity so i still like the idea of an AVR powering but I am a bit stumped with my direction.
@ThomasAndStereo what were your observations with respect to NAD M33 plus Kef R3 Meta? You said you had tested this combo but did not share your observations with respect to this paring in the video.
Do we assume that the speakers are fully burn-in? Tested before Kef R when new with Kinki Studio and they sounded horrible-sharp, but tried again once fully burnt-in, they played like sound from paradise.
I need both to do a proper one, I will say the R3 will sparkle better on the top end, while the Concept 500 will have a deeper soundstage as well as more powerful bass, all this based on memory.
Hi Thomas I would like to know your opinion on matching these speakers with Lyngdorf amp. Do you still like the sound characteristic of this full digital amp ? Thanks Peter
Well, the neutral-ish linear sound of the Lyngdorf will come through. If you like the sound of that amp, you will hear it almost 'uncolored' with these speakers. I don't know which Lyngdorf amp you have, the more power the better. Well, I do class D or Digital amp sound but my own preference is for a warmer sound. I mentioned this in my NAD M33 review. th-cam.com/video/J8zrM1QVDxE/w-d-xo.html&ab_channel=hi-fi%2BGlobalNetwork
Have you tried the Lyngdorf amplifiers? I think the 1120 TDAI might be a bit too low-powered for the R3 metas, but the 3400 should have plenty of power.
Looking at kef r3 meta in indigo blue right now.. also considering a harbeth 30.2xd used. Much different speakers mich different sound but I still cannot decide 🤷♂️.
Hello everyone, recently I bought a parir of KEF R3 meta, but I dont hear any substancial diference between my old Harman Kardon system ( 4 times less expensive) It will be due to the amp ? currently hace a PowerNode bluesound, If I improve the amp, really I will notice a better substancial sound of the R3 meta’s ? or the diferences It will be hardly to notice ? Maybe my expectations about R3 meta’s are overrated
Thomas, what is your reference speaker , which Silverline? Thanks, I am looking for a warm speaker with great mid range slightly less veiled than my Harbeth Compact 7 ‘s. NOT XD
I did not include it because it would have been too long for the video. The R3 meta was able to show the airy soundstage of the M33. check out my review of the M33. th-cam.com/video/J8zrM1QVDxE/w-d-xo.html&ab_channel=hi-fi%2BGlobalNetwork
Evening to you Thomas, greetings from Singapore. Based on your experience, would you think the Willsenton R800i would pair well with both the R3 Meta and R7 Meta? Would it have issues powering those two? Thank you in advance for your sharing..
I read that KEF likes to Demo with Hegel amps & that they use Hegel amplification when voicing the speakers/crossovers. Then i saw an Alpha Audio video comparing the R3 Meta with a Pass & a Hypex Nilai power amp. The ended up prefering the Nilai amp by quite a bit. Then i heard them say the same thing about KEF & Hegel...& that Hegel amps have very high damping..just like the Nilai does. They didnt like the Pass Labs pairing, which that amp just happens to have an extremely low damping factor.
Hi Thomas, another excellent clip even if it's a little different than the others. Matching is everything (IMHO), and not only if we are talking about the amplifier and speakers. I replaced a Lumin U2 Mini and a Gustard X26 DAC in my system with the famous Eversolo DMP 6A Master edition, the amplifier is a Yamaha AS 2100, and I found that it is a slightly better match with the Opera Callas speakers (first edition) than with the Wharfedale Linton which sounded better in the old setup. God's ways are unknown, but even more unknown are those of audiophilia. And now a small question, so among audiophiles, do you think there is a good match between Bellingham and Joselu? 😀
Hai since you know the meta and no Mata please help me . I am thinking to get r3 meta and i currently have r7 non meta . Is it a upgrade or no ? My room is small so the bookshelf is good enough size wise .
Hi Thomas, I'm deciding between a few speakers (some you already reviewed) and want to take your opinion, as I honestly highly value it. *Preference:* 1- Neutral sound (lol), good bass, clean mids, and clear sounds (don't mind if it's a teeny tiny bit on the bright side but no glare). Not interested in very high volumes as my room is small. 2- I don't have acoustic wall panels yet, but I'm buying them as well. 3- My source is a large 24bit HQ music library I have been collecting since the ninetees, in addition to Spotify. I have already a Yamaha AV rx-v471 (bear with me), I hope to use it and not to have to buy a new AMP, but pls tell me if it's not a good idea, I had it connected to a pair of Klipsch 600rm and I didn't really enjoy as much (I'm not sure which to blame the klipsch or Yamaha or the match) Anyway, Based on the AV I have, you may think I'm looking for a home theater system but not, what I truly want is a pure musical system, home theater is a low secondary priority for me. *Room measurements:* Room size: 12.2 * 15.5 ft Distance from listening position = 8 ft Distance between speaker and wall behind it = 2ft I can bring them closer to me, increasing the distance from wall to 2.5 ft, and decreasing listening distance to 7.5 ft Distance between the right speaker and a side-wall = 2.5 ft, can be increased to: 3ft *My Options:* A- Passive speakers, because: Longer lifespan, easier to change and upgrade system(though based on my location and budget I don't think I'll be changing frequently), can use my existing AV or buy a new AMP. B- Active speakers: The beauty of this option for me is that I won't have to go into the process of testing the speakers with the AMP and DACs and try to figure compatibility, which Audiophiles usually love but would be impossible for me since I moved a few months back (for work) to a country where very few audio options exist. Active Speakers solve this as they provide one package where everything is super compatible, so I won't have the risk of purchasing a pair of speakers that won't match with my Yamaha, then I spend big on a quality AMP just to find out they don't really match with my new speakers and I get stuck with a non-compatible pair for many years until I am able to replace. *Speakers available to me are:* 1- Buchardt S400 MkII (~2000 $) 2- Buchardt A10 (~4000 $)
If you are looking for a neutral sound, Klipsch probably not be ideal. Neutral sound would probably be Revel, not my cup of tea but if you want neutral, that is what you can look for. I have never listened to Fyne Audio so no idea about that one as well as BMR. For me, most speakers can do good bass, clear mids, it is the top end sparkle that will differentiate most speakers. You either like it sharp or not. All mids are clear, however, some are about clarity while others are about warmth. The S400 has good warmth while a B&W would be more about clarity unless you pair it well. So the answer to your question is not easy. A good store might be able to help you, email altitude audio with the same question and see how they answer you.
@@ThomasAndStereo i quote you: “For me, most speakers can do good bass, clear mids, it is the top end sparkle that will differentiate most speakers. You either like it sharp or not. All mids are clear, however, some are about clarity while others are about warmth.” Wow That described what I’m looking for so well, “The top end sparkle”, on the clarity side more than warmth, thank you. Which speakers do you like most in this category? (Any speakers At 3000$ max or close)
If you care this much about audio gear and refinement you need to cancel your Spotify account and do an instant upgrade with at least 24bit source. Seriously so many people overlook this simple fact.
@@pgansz actually I have a large library of 24 bit HQ music, and I’m considering 24bit streaming services as well, but I need a good set of speakers first.
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Review of the NAD M33 on HIFI+ th-cam.com/video/J8zrM1QVDxE/w-d-xo.html
Link to The Absolute Sound Kef video th-cam.com/video/rOGI9YpbCK0/w-d-xo.htmlsi=qgjJXDsmLCGAMsAK
Non-affiliated link altitudoaudio.ca/
TH-cam song mentioned in this video: th-cam.com/video/4ONfrkskNp4/w-d-xo.html
So if a person were pairing the R3 Meta with one or the other of the Exposure 3010 (a little on the romantic side of neutral) or the Naim XS-2 (PRAT to spare), which would be the better choice? I also have an SMSL AO-300 but I assume that's a hard no. :D
I have the Hegel 390 powering my R3 Metas. I've owned the previous version as well. I really enjoyed the R3's, but the new ones are definitely a different animal. Right out of the box I went WOW! They'll just get better as time goes by. I can sit for several hours at a time and just never tire of the sound. I have the indigo blue with the matching stands. You have to get the stands, sexy for sure. The color is much darker than the pictures and videos show. I've been doing this HiFi thing for over 50 years, and my wonderful wife has been there for most of it. She could care less about sound. She likes her music; doesn't care how she hears it. When she walked into the room after I got them playing, she says, "those sound nice". 1st time ever! I don't know what that says, but it sure says something! Highly recommended.
Nice, glad you are enjoying it.
I’ve found your comment really amusing as I’m in an almost identical situation (I’m in my seventies) and I’m sure that it’s the first time that my my wife has really been impressed when I’ve changed speakers, not only by their sound but their appearance as well. I’ve had my walnut finish R3 Meta speakers for exactly two weeks, paired up with my 20 year old Cyrus Pre X, SmartPowers and PSX’R’s and you know you’re really enjoying your music when you simply don’t want to turn it off. Happy listening.
I also have the H390, but with LS50 Meta!, Have you compared the R3 to the LS50?
May I ask if you've ever had Maggie's in your audio system? so, what's the big difference between your KEFs and Maggie's?
Thank you.
No. I'm located in the 3rd world. No KEFs around
I’m using the Rotel 6000 integrated. It’s a great match
Wow! You've began to make a sound demo, sir! And the demo is great and informative. Thanks
I have a pair of blue R3 Metas. I am driving them with a Vac CPA 1 preamp and a PASS X250.8 amp. These are spectacular speakers that present an incredible sound stage. Maybe the best imaging l have heard.
Blue is the only way to go with these.
Thanks for the video. I recently bought the KEF R3 Meta. For many years, I owned a pair of KEF 103/4 (with KUBE) and like the KEF sound and presentation. I am using the Cambridge Audio CXA81 and am very happy with the combination - I think a British speaker deserves a British amp.
I purchased the R3 Meta speakers (in the walnut finish) late September 2023 powered by my 22 year old Cyrus amplification, the Cyrus pre/power/psx-r combination handled the 4ohm load with ease at all volume levels and drew unexpected praise from my wife and others, none of whom have the least bit of interest in hi-fi but do enjoy their own music. A few weeks ago l traded in my Cyrus amps, which was a pre planned move due to their age (not to mention mine!) and I’ve purchased the Exposure 3510 intergrated which uses just one shelf in my rack, rather than the three needed for the Cyrus’s. The amp and speakers are pretty much run in now, but even out of its box the Exposure just simply sounded right from the word go and has really impressed not only myself but my family as well. It’s certainly dynamic and because of this I’m really enjoying low level listening, late evenings etc without disturbing anyone else and at normal listening levels I’m enjoying my music like never before. So the Exposure/ Kef and the Cyrus/ Kef combinations both get a great big thumbs up from myself and from my family. Happy listening.
Audiophiles are a strange bunch. If you adjust the capacitance of a circuit to enhance or diminish the bass or treble, they walk away complaining about lack of directness or purity. But if you slightly change the capacitance in an amp to make it brighter or warmer, they will buy one amp for this and one amp for that. I really wish you guys had not driven treble, bass and eq out of integrated amps and pre-amps with this craziness. I would trust your good reviews if you ever gave a bad review. That is why everyone always asks what you really think, because we have no idea from all these positive videos.
I made a video address the fact of why there are no negative videos on my channel. th-cam.com/video/4ONfrkskNp4/w-d-xo.html
Greast comment ever made in audiophile world.
Not a satisfactory answer by thomas.
It is not easy to keep all variables in perspective at all times. No matter how well versed in a field someone is. Simplifying the System is one way to go. Synergy though is difficult to achieve or predict ahead of actually hearing the gear. It is near impossible IMO. Which is a the issue with simple, no ability to tweak Gear. I would have said at one time cables don’t make a difference. That changed after owning my current phono stage, playing with the resistance and inductance to get the sound I like, I realized I was way wrong. These are all factors that can also be affected by Cables. Wanting it to be simple to avoid all variables possible is what people want to strive for with the removal of tone controls etc.. How do you remove the variables, but get the sound tweaked how you want it, without going through equipment to hopefully find synergy? Luck is my guess.
Tone Controls etc. can add that doubt or lack of Piece of Mind. Simple gear or tweakable gear with controls can both have issues. Doubt of Purity with controls to tweak or difficulty matching gear to your taste. Seemingly there is not a good solution. That can be true. The only solution is to be content, enjoy what you have, and let your gear & equipment make you happy.
As far as bad reviews. They are out there. Most times it is just like a Good review. Subjective, filled with variables, and not worth anything more than a good review in the end. The factor that separates them is negativity. We are watching videos on youtube to be entertained. A Minority may want once and awhile to hear a negative review so they can feel they are not being lied to or a variety of other reasons, but most don’t. So for a reviewer to cater to a small minority because at the time the viewer might need affirmation or confidence in what they are watching, will never become a standard. It would be selfish to ask for it IMO. As if the people who create content should cater to a viewer specifically, allows it to become less about the reviewers opinion, and more about the person asking to be catered to. Most of us are not interested in that at any given time. Great thing is TH-cam allows people to make their own channel, and produce near whatever content they like. So asking for content for you while not just making it for yourself, and others you think also want it, is a missed opportunity on that persons part. Enjoy TH-cam don’t demand it cater to you type of deal. Happy Listening is the best advice any Audiophile can give to another.
Thanks Thomas - a great comparison review, and I'm glad you highlighted the difference the amplifier can make, which I knew in theory, but which you illustrated very well with your descriptions and sound samples (to some degree given I am not "in the room" but listening on IEM's via TH-cam). It has confirmed what I suspected, that my speakers could do with an upgrade....oh lord!
Haha, watching Thomas and Stereo can be dangerous to your wallet.
I guess I got lucky. I bought my Kef R3 Meta 3 weeks ago and they sound absolutely gorgeous with my Accuphase E211 paired with the Music Hall Ikura. Just beautiful. They constantly find new music in the music I've been listening to for over 30 years.
Congrats!
Really fun and well-made video. Thank you Thomas 😊
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thanks for the show to run the R3 on different amps, very informative and interesting. Great vid as usual. 😊💙
Glad it was entertaining.
Great video Thomas. Nice to hear about amp comparisons as well, especially some that are not so mainstream. Great stories as well. Thanks for sharing!
Glad you like them!
Spot on accurate review with verifiable matching recording
Glad you think so!
Leonid and the crew at Altitudo Audio are excellent! They were very patient with me and took time to show me the equipment.
Nice, thanks for sharing.
That atoll is a beast, some serious drive and excitement there. Seems like a killer amp
Yes, not well know here in Canada but oh boy, can it sing.
@@ThomasAndStereo most of what the French touch in the audio world is quite impressive I must say! Must be all the wine and cheese 🤌
Great video! The best reviewer!!
Nice to see you again Thomas! Good info as always.
Hey, thanks!
I have a pair of R3 metas and I am using them together with Hegel H190 and KC62 Sub with Gustard R26 dac and they sound incredibly detailed and warm with these electronics
Very nice!
But what cables are you using? ;-)
😂😂 they are just audioquest cables with isotek optimum power cable
Fascinating video!
The demos show a dramatic difference in the sound of power amps. Back to back it is so clear. I think you just sold a bunch of Atoll amps and my runner up was the BC Acoutique.
Also brave sole to confidently report on the fact cables matter.
Haha, cables....yeah, a sensitive topic. Atoll is great, I wish more people know of the brand.
LOL
Congrats on the Absolute Sound review.
I have the R3 Meta, Hegel H190, 2 Rel T5x subs, Denafrips 12th dac, and use audioquest kabels, the song Stand by me sounds great on this system No fatiqe sounds at All, Hegel and Kef is a good match,
Nice system.
My Old Luxman M-03 come out from my hifi cave for sell it to a friend who want that amp badly. But first I have give it a try. Wow, my R3 meta respond with lots of power, resolution, details and sweet midrange. 😊
I always enjoy your videos Thomas. Well done!
Thx
🙋♂️GREETINGS THOMAS,GREAT TO HEAR 👂🏻 YOUR STORIES 🤗 AND SHARING ABOUT THE DIFFERENT TASTES 😋 AND THANK YOU FOR THE SOUND DEMOS 🤗💚💚💚
Thanks for watching!
@@ThomasAndStereo ALWAYS A GREAT TIME 🤗👍💚💚💚
🙋♂️ THOMAS,IT HAS OCCURRED TO ME 🤔 THAT YOU ARE BECOMING THE MASTER CHEF 🧑🍳 COOKING UP EQUIPMENT AND SERVING DIFFERENT PEOPLE’S TASTES …AND YOUR HONESTY HAS SERVED YOU WELL AND YOUR STORIES ADD
TO THE RECIPE 😋💚💚💚😊
I tell you sir, I haven't watched your videos in quite a while but that's a nice bokeh you have there.
No seriously man video quality is significantly improves since the last time I watched your videos, congratulations.
Thanks.
Stand by me was “buttery smooth “ thru my KEF 104/2 , Parasound amp, & Schiit tube pre amp. Thanks for recommending Music -Travel-Love sound track! I’ve added them to my playlist
Thanks for sharing!
Love the shirt... the second best team on the planet ;)
Really like how your channel has evolved & I appreciate the sample tracks. Tri Art mids were special. I’m looking forward to your ss amp.
Yes, out of all the amps I tested that day with the Meta, the Galion SS amp class A was the least shouty with that song. It was a design choice from me to tone down the attack a bit for excellent smoothness.
Great review as always.👍
I appreciate that
Excellent Video...Thanks...
Glad you liked it!
Great video Thomas. I think you left out impressions with the NAD M23
Nah, it was getting too long the video so I removed it on purpose.
@@ThomasAndStereoSo how was it?
@@siamxiii My NAD M33 video will be coming soon on The Absolute Sound. It can overall rival the Atoll IN400 but there are significant differences. For example, the M33 has a leaner midrange but a more airy top end.
@@ThomasAndStereo Thank you, eagerly waiting for your video.
Using speaker cables Steve Huff recommended. 30 bucks .14 gauge is a must with these speakers. Old pair of Kimber PBJ cables. Sounds freaking fantastic. Less than 300 bucks. Topping D90se DAC. LINE MAGNETIC 508IA 1300.00 IN TUBE UPGRADES. Sounds great 😊
No way does speaker cable make a difference unless it’s oxidised internally
I always imagined you'd be an Arsenal man! 😂
Great video as always!
I love your videos! There is a teachable moment at the 4:50 mark, best (anecdotal) case of sighted listening results yet. To compare the sound alone of any two or three items you have to listen level matched and blind. Level-matching may not play nearly as big of a role with cables of course, haven't heard anyone so brazen to say custom cables are 'louder'. I've also yet to see anyone have the slightest difficulty deciding using sighted-listening 'tests' (ahem). You must choose between comfort (sighted listening) or the unmitigated truth (blind). With expensive gear why fool yourself?
Hi sir
What are the best bookshelf speakers you've ever heard?
"Shoutiness" could well be what the traditional British speaker designers were always trying to avoid with their slight dip in the crossover ("presence") region. A 1-2 db dip there won't hurt anything -- and might do some good. The emphasis on perfectly flat measurements isn't always the best thing.
ASR was pretty impressed with the measurements and sound.
Fantastic review Thomas! I am looking to buy a pair of bookshelf speakers and these do look tempting. Will those speakers be a good match with my CARY A306 power amplifier, it's a Class D? 👍
Sorr, I have never tried it.
Not a problem and thanks Thomas! @@ThomasAndStereo
Hey Thomas-love your informative videos. My amp is an integrated Cary SI-300d. That's a powerhouse 300 watts per channel with very clean and clear definition in the sound. How do you think the R3 Metas would perform with it? Or the R7 Metas?
Was at a dealer’s place recently and he decided to just try out some RCA interconnects. We started out with a pair that costs like $400 then tried out a pair that costs about $2,000.
There was a very audible difference. I’m not saying the more expensive one sounded better etc. Not that. It just sounded different. Almost as though speakers are a different pair.
It’s definitely not psychoacoustics. The sound was just different.
ps I’m not a cable fanboy. No exotic cables in my system.
Atoll followed very closely by BC Acoustique, the Willsenton is soft and the Tri-Art a disaster. Thanks for the comparison Thomas👍
Glad the BC acoustique made a strong impression.
very helpful explanation! Thanks.
Glad it was helpful!
Damn, I saw the M33 in the list of amps, and was looking forward to hearing about the match as I'm considering the Kef R3, but there are no local resellers and I don't have the opportunity to try them with my NAD
Thanks for a great year, I respect your knowledge and your reviews. Im very curious of the R3 Meta, like the transparency and detailed sound. Today I have a Class D poweramp NAD C298 (purify-tech). How would you describe the result/match of that combo? I know it’s a matter of taste…Or anyone else in the forum that have any experience of that pairing. Also curios to pair it with B 400 Mk2, sure I will get a totally different sound result then. Happy new year 😊
That song plays just fine on my meagre set. MA Bronze 100 and NAD C3338. Oh, and all my cables are decent and heavy guage and cost less than 50 bucks total
Hiya, Thomas! Nice meeting you today. I was hoping to chat with you a bit more, but then I lost ya and couldn't find you again before closing time. Hopefully you'll be around tomorrow... I'll be back to check out floor number 3. (I wanted to do the third floor last, because it seemed to be the best of the floors... but of course, by the time I got there, I was out of time! I lollygagged too much on the lower levels. lol)
Again, great to finally meet you, and I hope to see you again tomorrow (Sunday, Oct 23). Cheers!
Yeah, I will be running around to film between 10 to 1, hope to meet you.
Great review, I have a Pathos Logos amp like you. How did that combo sound?
Hala Madrid! I didnt realize you were a fan Thomas. All the more reason love your channel 😊.
Thanks!
Madrid are cheaters
Sounds great!
I will have different amplifiers and Galion !
Sounds great!
Probably hard to find something that absolutely sucks these days. You have to say “ sucks? Compared to what?”
I don’t watch reviews like a shopping catalog, I watch for entertainment and to keep up with what’s new. I like looking at super car mags and videos also, but not because I’m buying a Bugatti. It’s fun folks don’t be so serious.
I trust ya Thomas:)
Awesome review. I have x2 audiolab 8300MB’s. What speaker(s) would you recommend ? Thanks!
I can definitely hear the differences in amps with the R3M you described with the Atoll retaining the detail and airiness whilst filling out the body. I've been trying to decide on speakers for my second system and narrowed it down to Buchardt S400 MKII vs KEF R3 Meta...tough decision. Already own the S400 MKII and I like their placement flexibility (I have a small room so can't pull speakers out) and bass without having to add a sub. I also wish they had a touch more air which the KEF R3 M seem to have. Also aesthetics matter to me. S4 MK II look nice, but the KEF R3 Meta more polished and luxurious.
Yup, the R3 has that advantage on the top end. I know it is rear ported but you can close the port with the supplied foams.
Hai . Great review Thomas, dose atoll in 200 do a good job for kef r7 or r3 ?
I would assume so.
@@ThomasAndStereo ☺️thank you so much
KEF R3 Meta have a problem: 3.2 Ohms at 150 Hz (Erin's measurements). And true sensitivity of 86 dB -> they need power. SS amplifier > 100 watts at 4 Ohms or high current (class A) to play good recordings.
Atoll IN400A has watts and current but a lot of harmonics too at -65 dB and -80 dB, from H2... H20!!! -> UNREAL sound. Always with the odd ones of greater magnitude than the even ones, which is the opposite of ideal.
Polish review, to English:
[ Atoll IN400
Atoll is a representative of the transistor fraction, in this test it is fighting for the primacy of the most powerful device with Luxman and it is winning this fight, although at a certain cost... The power of the device at 8 ohms is 177 W and 2 x 169 W. At 4 ohms we can count on up to 272 W and 2 x 261 W. However, such results will be available at a relatively high input voltage, reaching 0.9 V.
In addition to high power, we also get, unfortunately, a high noise level, which reaches up to ...74 dB. In this respect, the Atolla puts many lamps to shame. The dynamics "lowered" by high noise cannot reach the limit of 100 dB.
In the frequency response (Fig. 1), the highest frequencies are slightly weak, ... 3 dB falls on 66 kHz at 8 ohms and 62 kHz at 4 ohms, while the performance in the low-frequency range up to the borderline 10 Hz is exemplary.
Fig. 2 shows the tendency to generate a series of distortions in which odd ... third (...61 dB), fifth (...64 dB) and seventh (...66 dB) dominate, visible up to 7 p.m. inclusive, all above ...80 dB. Among the even numbers, the strongest one - the second ... has a level of ...66 dB, and the next ones up to the eighteenth are above ...90 dB.
High distortion is also reflected in the graph in Fig. 3, the THD+N level above 0.1% is maintained throughout the entire range of useful output power, the only consolation is the flat shape of the characteristics guaranteeing a similar level of distortion in a large power range. The curve for 8 ohms looks slightly better. For a high-power transistor, the damping factor is also low. In terms of measurement, apart from high power, the IN400 has little to show for it. ]
Maybe it is one of those, measures bad but sounds good.
"What do I really think about" is Steve Guttenberg's line, Thomas!
Yes, I love it when he says that.
Hi Thomas, cool video! I can see how much work you have done to make something like this. Speakers are really good and many amplifiers can be used as a great setup! How cables work I will do demo at Toronto Audiofest 2023. Room 321. I did same thing with Eversolo DMP-A6 at Pacific Audio Show 2023.
Yes, impress us and if I am there, I will film people's reaction.
Listening to Stand By Me on my system is borderline shouty, leaning more towards the unpleasant side. Also happen to be listening to that track through my KEF R3 Meta's. The rest of my system specs:
-Moon Simaudio 250i V2 integrated
-Eversolo DMP-A6 DAC Streamer
-Nordost Blue Heaven Speaker and IEC power cables
-Mogami interconnects
Honestly, this is the first track that I came across on my system that sounded this shouty.
P.S: i purchased a demo unit from Leonid at Altitudo Audio in the walnut finish. I have a strange suspicion that I have the very unit you were listening to.
Great video Thomas as always. How was the matching with the NAD M33 ?
Airy, wait for my review of it on The Absolute Sound TH-cam channel.
Great video. Thank you. Do you have a view on driving the R3 Meta using 2 Vidars as monoblocks? OR Bi amped with two vidars?
Hey Thomas. What about R3 Meta and NAD M10v2?
Hi, Nice review. I have Atoll in100 signature(100W 8ohm, 140w 4ohm). I like good bass punch and clean precise treble (but not fatigue). How about the pairing with this speaker? It would be a great help for me. TIA
Hi thomas , thanks for all your amazing reviews . I own a pair of kef r5meta with 87 sensitivity and consider buying a integrated tube amp. is a 2X45 Watts per channel enough to drive them ? i think buying the Welssinton R800i, What do you think in this choice ? many many thanks for your answer
It will drive these speakers no problem the R800i. Make sure you like the 845 sound.
Is Cambridge CXA 81 good for KEF R3 Meta?
my current music/home theater setup is Kef q350 LR...kef 650c..kef t101 surrounds and two svs pb1k's. powered by just a yamaha rx v485. I can get a deal on some r3 metas but I dont know how to do my upgrade path from here. I need simplicity so i still like the idea of an AVR powering but I am a bit stumped with my direction.
Thomas is one of a handful of reviewers i can actually believe, without dissing any product he tells you the quality and standard of each piece . 👍
the Music Fidelity A1 i hear on them and it was lovely sounding
I have a Yamaha 3040 , do you think it would pair well with this , or is the Yamaha to warm ?
@thomasandstereo would an emotiva basx a3 be a good option for kef r3meta and r6 meta (center) in a home theater with Denon x3800h?
@ThomasAndStereo what were your observations with respect to NAD M33 plus Kef R3 Meta? You said you had tested this combo but did not share your observations with respect to this paring in the video.
Very airy. Check out my m33 review. th-cam.com/video/J8zrM1QVDxE/w-d-xo.htmlsi=tn36rF_o_6BilEU6
Do we assume that the speakers are fully burn-in? Tested before Kef R when new with Kinki Studio and they sounded horrible-sharp, but tried again once fully burnt-in, they played like sound from paradise.
Well they ended up at a few places so yes, you can assume they have passed the break in period.
Hi Thomas, Are these R3 speakers bolted to the S3 speaker stands? TIA.
No.
Awesome stories Thomas, as usual:)
Btw, can you give some comparison of R3Meta with QA Concept 300 or 500?
I need both to do a proper one, I will say the R3 will sparkle better on the top end, while the Concept 500 will have a deeper soundstage as well as more powerful bass, all this based on memory.
Hi Thomas
I would like to know your opinion on matching these speakers with Lyngdorf amp.
Do you still like the sound characteristic of this full digital amp ?
Thanks
Peter
Well, the neutral-ish linear sound of the Lyngdorf will come through. If you like the sound of that amp, you will hear it almost 'uncolored' with these speakers. I don't know which Lyngdorf amp you have, the more power the better. Well, I do class D or Digital amp sound but my own preference is for a warmer sound. I mentioned this in my NAD M33 review. th-cam.com/video/J8zrM1QVDxE/w-d-xo.html&ab_channel=hi-fi%2BGlobalNetwork
Have you tried the Lyngdorf amplifiers? I think the 1120 TDAI might be a bit too low-powered for the R3 metas, but the 3400 should have plenty of power.
Yes I have but not with the meta
Great video. Thanks Thomas. Do you think the R3 images as good as the LS50? Thank you.
Need to do some serious AB test to anwser this, sorry.
Looking at kef r3 meta in indigo blue right now.. also considering a harbeth 30.2xd used. Much different speakers mich different sound but I still cannot decide 🤷♂️.
Hello everyone, recently I bought a parir of KEF R3 meta, but I dont hear any substancial diference between my old Harman Kardon system ( 4 times less expensive) It will be due to the amp ? currently hace a PowerNode bluesound, If I improve the amp, really I will notice a better substancial sound of the R3 meta’s ? or the diferences It will be hardly to notice ? Maybe my expectations about R3 meta’s are overrated
Thomas, what is your reference speaker , which Silverline?
Thanks, I am looking for a warm speaker with great mid range slightly less veiled than my Harbeth Compact 7 ‘s. NOT XD
Silverline Sonata, it is old.
Did You Give Your Impressions Of The R3 With Nad M33 Amp In This Video ?
No, I skipped it because it was getting too long the video.
Thomas - did I missed it, or did you leave the NAD completely out of your comments. Is it a good match with the KEF's?
I did not include it because it would have been too long for the video. The R3 meta was able to show the airy soundstage of the M33. check out my review of the M33. th-cam.com/video/J8zrM1QVDxE/w-d-xo.html&ab_channel=hi-fi%2BGlobalNetwork
@@ThomasAndStereo - thanks!
Evening to you Thomas, greetings from Singapore. Based on your experience, would you think the Willsenton R800i would pair well with both the R3 Meta and R7 Meta? Would it have issues powering those two? Thank you in advance for your sharing..
It will not have problem powering it. Will it pair well? If I were to guess, then most likely yes.
@@ThomasAndStereo thank you, it is much appreciated. Love your content.
Are you going to show your TS120 at Melbourne audio show? Love to see it
Sadly I will not, thanks for your interest.
Could these speakers be use with Q150?
Changing cables is like changing capacitors in your crossovers, it changes the sound you hear for better or worse!
Not shouty at 86db which is about as loud as I get in my room. Jolida 502A/ Spendor D7.2
Definitely ex234 , turn the treble up it blows the Atoll in clarity precision presentation accuracy fine detail digs deep airy spacious.
Hi Thomas just wonder $3000 Amp & $3000 marantz receivers, I do luv movies & music, I noticed you hardly review any
receiver. Thanks you 4yourtime.
Toronto Audiofest 2023
Welcome to come in and listen how cables can increase level of your system! Room 321
i tried a 500 dollar stereo receiver vs a 2000 dollar stereo receiver. my ears couldn’t tell the difference, sold the expensive one. 😅
Congrats, always great to find a good deal.
As the comment section fills with colorful comments about the expensive cables, your cable friend's bank account is filling at a much faster rate. 😃
Thomas, how did these sound with the M33?
I remember it was very airy and it took me by surprised.
I read that KEF likes to Demo with Hegel amps & that they use Hegel amplification when voicing the speakers/crossovers.
Then i saw an Alpha Audio video comparing the R3 Meta with a Pass & a Hypex Nilai power amp. The ended up prefering the Nilai amp by quite a bit. Then i heard them say the same thing about KEF & Hegel...& that Hegel amps have very high damping..just like the Nilai does. They didnt like the Pass Labs pairing, which that amp just happens to have an extremely low damping factor.
What happened with the NAD M33? I was hoping you delved a bit on that amp.
th-cam.com/video/J8zrM1QVDxE/w-d-xo.htmlsi=tn36rF_o_6BilEU6
Hi Thomas, another excellent clip even if it's a little different than the others. Matching is everything (IMHO), and not only if we are talking about the amplifier and speakers. I replaced a Lumin U2 Mini and a Gustard X26 DAC in my system with the famous Eversolo DMP 6A Master edition, the amplifier is a Yamaha AS 2100, and I found that it is a slightly better match with the Opera Callas speakers (first edition) than with the Wharfedale Linton which sounded better in the old setup. God's ways are unknown, but even more unknown are those of audiophilia.
And now a small question, so among audiophiles, do you think there is a good match between Bellingham and Joselu? 😀
Thanks and yes synergy is everything. A good match between those two? Hehe.
Hai since you know the meta and no Mata please help me . I am thinking to get r3 meta and i currently have r7 non meta . Is it a upgrade or no ? My room is small so the bookshelf is good enough size wise .
It is a change in sound. No a drastic upgrade. For me, any upgrade needs to be 2 levels up.
@@ThomasAndStereo thank you so much that really helps me to make my decision
Hi Thomas...please review the Pathos showing on top of the stand in the backround...that would have driven these Kef R3 w/ authority🎶
Good eye!
Hi Thomas, I'm deciding between a few speakers (some you already reviewed) and want to take your opinion, as I honestly highly value it.
*Preference:*
1- Neutral sound (lol), good bass, clean mids, and clear sounds (don't mind if it's a teeny tiny bit on the bright side but no glare). Not interested in very high volumes as my room is small.
2- I don't have acoustic wall panels yet, but I'm buying them as well.
3- My source is a large 24bit HQ music library I have been collecting since the ninetees, in addition to Spotify.
I have already a Yamaha AV rx-v471 (bear with me), I hope to use it and not to have to buy a new AMP, but pls tell me if it's not a good idea, I had it connected to a pair of Klipsch 600rm and I didn't really enjoy as much (I'm not sure which to blame the klipsch or Yamaha or the match)
Anyway, Based on the AV I have, you may think I'm looking for a home theater system but not, what I truly want is a pure musical system, home theater is a low secondary priority for me.
*Room measurements:*
Room size: 12.2 * 15.5 ft
Distance from listening position = 8 ft
Distance between speaker and wall behind it = 2ft
I can bring them closer to me, increasing the distance from wall to 2.5 ft, and decreasing listening distance to 7.5 ft
Distance between the right speaker and a side-wall = 2.5 ft, can be increased to: 3ft
*My Options:*
A- Passive speakers, because: Longer lifespan, easier to change and upgrade system(though based on my location and budget I don't think I'll be changing frequently), can use my existing AV or buy a new AMP.
B- Active speakers: The beauty of this option for me is that I won't have to go into the process of testing the speakers with the AMP and DACs and try to figure compatibility, which Audiophiles usually love but would be impossible for me since I moved a few months back (for work) to a country where very few audio options exist. Active Speakers solve this as they provide one package where everything is super compatible, so I won't have the risk of purchasing a pair of speakers that won't match with my Yamaha, then I spend big on a quality AMP just to find out they don't really match with my new speakers and I get stuck with a non-compatible pair for many years until I am able to replace.
*Speakers available to me are:*
1- Buchardt S400 MkII (~2000 $)
2- Buchardt A10 (~4000 $)
If you are looking for a neutral sound, Klipsch probably not be ideal. Neutral sound would probably be Revel, not my cup of tea but if you want neutral, that is what you can look for. I have never listened to Fyne Audio so no idea about that one as well as BMR. For me, most speakers can do good bass, clear mids, it is the top end sparkle that will differentiate most speakers. You either like it sharp or not. All mids are clear, however, some are about clarity while others are about warmth. The S400 has good warmth while a B&W would be more about clarity unless you pair it well. So the answer to your question is not easy. A good store might be able to help you, email altitude audio with the same question and see how they answer you.
@@ThomasAndStereo i quote you:
“For me, most speakers can do good bass, clear mids, it is the top end sparkle that will differentiate most speakers. You either like it sharp or not. All mids are clear, however, some are about clarity while others are about warmth.”
Wow That described what I’m looking for so well, “The top end sparkle”, on the clarity side more than warmth, thank you.
Which speakers do you like most in this category? (Any speakers At 3000$ max or close)
If you care this much about audio gear and refinement you need to cancel your Spotify account and do an instant upgrade with at least 24bit source. Seriously so many people overlook this simple fact.
@@pgansz actually I have a large library of 24 bit HQ music, and I’m considering 24bit streaming services as well, but I need a good set of speakers first.
@@pgansz got any in mind that match ?
Do you have a chance to review the klipsch rp8000f ii?
No, my most recent Klipsch video is on the RF7-III
@@ThomasAndStereo RF7 III is too expensive for me, I'm thinking of buying rp8000 ii, what do you think of them?
I found only the Atoll out of the group did the best with the timing issue with the bass on the Kefs.
Please do a full review of the elipson 3210
th-cam.com/video/qa3iM3e-vMQ/w-d-xo.htmlsi=TOzkorJQVY_E3osW
Skip the concentric and go dipole LRS+ plus sub for same price. Not incremental but a leap in sound quality.
I have both, both have their strength. For example, In terms of soundstage width, LRS+, in terms of instrument placement R3 Meta.