EMINENT TECH LFT8b, watch out MAGNEPAN!

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 10 ก.ย. 2024

ความคิดเห็น • 322

  • @donnewcombe2685
    @donnewcombe2685 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    Excellent review, and very accurate! I've enjoyed my LFT-8b speakers for 8 years now, with different amplification from 60 wpc tubes to 200 wpc solid state and they sound great - superb value!

  • @MultiStrider
    @MultiStrider ปีที่แล้ว +15

    I've had the LFT-8b's for about 3 years now paired with a Jolida Fusion tube pre-amp and a Parasound A21 amplifier. I have them in a mid-size room about 5 feet off of the wall behind them. They sound absolutely fantastic in my room. The tube pre and just slightly warm sounding signature of the 250 watt/8 ohm-400watts/4 ohm Parasound amp round out the crystal clear presentation nicely. They will play far louder than I can tolerate in my room quite easily. I've heard various Magnepan models in many different rooms and have always been impressed. But the LFT-8b's had a characteristic that swung me their direction. And that is their capability to retain the majority of that wonderful sound characteristic even when played at lower to medium sound levels. They sound just as good at 20% power as they do at 80%. I live in Tallahassee where these are manufactured and I had a great conversation with Bruce Thigpen about what I was trying to achieve and how to go about it. I knew I was on the right track when I went by to pick up my made to order speakers and had another great audio conversation as Bruce himself helped me load the speakers into my vehicle. It's hard to beat that kind of customer service. Bruce is a good guy and how often does just a regular "Joe" get to talk audio with a renowned speaker designer? Thanks Steve for bringing us such wonderful things to look at and listen to!

  • @GrotrianSeiler
    @GrotrianSeiler ปีที่แล้ว +29

    Steve’s tempered enthusiasm is the best part of his videos.

    • @vinylcabasse
      @vinylcabasse ปีที่แล้ว

      and the shirt he's wearing in the thumbnail 🤣

    • @dilbyjones
      @dilbyjones ปีที่แล้ว

      Hehe I agree.

  • @billmilosz
    @billmilosz ปีที่แล้ว +22

    These have been available for years.... they've sounded good for years.... surprisingly only reviewed now.

    • @gdwlaw5549
      @gdwlaw5549 ปีที่แล้ว

      always 3.600?

    • @setthejazzfree8910
      @setthejazzfree8910 ปีที่แล้ว

      ​@@gdwlaw5549 I bought them back when the same speakers cost $1800, direct

  • @SuperMcgenius
    @SuperMcgenius ปีที่แล้ว +21

    Steve, I have not seen you so excited about a speaker at this price range quite some time. Your reviews are knocking it out of the ballfield. Good work, sir.

  • @dpfreedman
    @dpfreedman ปีที่แล้ว +16

    Finally something we agree on :-) I've had my LFT-8bs for several years and have nothing to add. They're spectacular. What needs to be added to the review is a mention of Bruce Thigpen's customer service which has been, without question, the best I have ever experienced.

    • @bettervetter
      @bettervetter ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Bruce is one of the nicest people I’ve ever met. Built those LTF-8s with him back in college. Greatest job I’ve ever had

    • @issadad
      @issadad ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks! I was about to build a system around Magnepan 1.7, but this review and your comment have me very close to pulling the trigger on the LFT-8C. Do you have any sense of how they'd compare to the Maggies in a large 30 x 22 room with 15 ft high ceilings, placed abt 8 ft apart on the long wall? I'm looking for soundstage height, air, envelopment, total immersion (mostly classical music). Above all, is there any integrated amp under $5000 that's ideal? ANY tube int amps? As I can't audition these speakers anywhere (but already know I love the Maggies), I'd love to hear from you.

    • @williamglenn6501
      @williamglenn6501 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I have a pair of lft8c’s in a very large room and I love them. What you will miss is the bass impact with orchestral music, which you won’t likely get from all but the biggest Maggies. Even then you won’t get the low extension from Maggies but you know this already. The imaging and sound staging are to die for within the limitated sweet spot that a beaming line source places you.

  • @tedhethcote2630
    @tedhethcote2630 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    I’ve had the LFT-8b’s for 14 years and going and really enjoyed them. Bruce Thigpen has always been a pleasure to deal with.

    • @keplermission
      @keplermission ปีที่แล้ว

      Yeah and there's the Monsoon iM-700, you know really car speakers, a subwoofer and flat panel speakers for $200 based on the LFT-11. But Lanzar car speakers with the Dayton Audio HTA100BT are competition.

  • @thedavidmarriott
    @thedavidmarriott 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    I’m surprised you’re only recently getting to these speakers. I’ve owned a few pairs off and on since the early ‘90s. They are magnificent. The imaging, clarity and stage quality is mind blowing. (I promise I am not in any way affiliated with them). Sitting in the right spot, with the right recording, close your eyes and its like a private live concert.

    • @ericelmore887
      @ericelmore887 4 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Great review Steve, how do they compare to the Diptyque ‘s you had in for review?

  • @DeVOREFIDELITY
    @DeVOREFIDELITY ปีที่แล้ว +10

    I've always admired Bruces designs. I still own an ET-2, and I remember the LFT speaker very well from my Stereo Exchange days.

    • @danm1995
      @danm1995 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I used an ET-2 in the late 80s on a VPI HW19 MkIV - a great combo!

  • @mikes121
    @mikes121 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Love my Vandersteen Model 2 and Model 1. Purchased both pair this year. Absolutely love these.

  • @MyIrenee
    @MyIrenee ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I have a pair of LFT 3 bought in 1987 and have Hot roaded the cross over, cabling and build a newer frame out of Hard wood. I am driving them with a Wells Audio Inamorata amp rated at 120 watts 8 ohms 200 watts 4 ohms. Well haven't heard anything else that would make me change speakers. Very very happy with them and never had any issues with them over that time.

    • @RyanStone143
      @RyanStone143 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I "stole" my pair of LFT 3s at an auction in Indianapolis in 2003 for $800, then found a Sumo Andromeda II amp at a pawn shop to power them. A few years later I won a pair of original LFT 8s on ebay from LJ Linton. I believe he wrote the review I read that got me interested in ET speakers to begin with... I've been happy with both ever since.

  • @scoupra
    @scoupra 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Great, thought provoking review Steve! I've owned the 1.6 Maggies for over 20 years and revel in their sound over any box speaker I've ever heard (more than 200 hours of high end listening sessions at CES spanning 3 decades). They're now a bit long in the tooth and need revamping, so I was thinking of the LRS+s paired with the UWB sub system, which are not available - and may never be, or a new pair of 1.7s. Watching your review, I couldn't help but think that a direct head-to-head shootout between the LFT-8b's and the 1.7 Maggies would be a more apples to apples comparo given the similar price points, if you could arrange it. That'd provide real value for us panel lovers on a sub-$4K budget! If not, I guess I'll have to make that 6 hour drive up to Tallahassee to listen to the LFTs for myself before making the purchase decision. In any event, thanks for introducing me to the LFTs with this very informative review. Keep up the excellent work!

  • @amishvette1590
    @amishvette1590 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Steve, I have listened to a few Magnepan speakers in the last year and was not overly impressed with them compared to my current Elac Vella FS407s. However, this video convinced me to give the LFT 8b speakers a tryout. I ordered a pair today after a conversation with Bruce Thigpen regarding my gear and listening room. BTW - Bruce has a small manufacturing footprint with an equally small number of employees. You can tell he really appreciates every sale and especially each customer. So refreshing to talk to an audio component company owner who will get "down in the trenches" with a customer. Thanks for this video - I hope it will be life changing. 😃 And I hope my wife won't shoot me when she gets home next month!

    • @carlosoliveira-rc2xt
      @carlosoliveira-rc2xt ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Never been a fan of Maggies as well. Hope the LFT 8b works out for you.

    • @randylocke2951
      @randylocke2951 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      The Sound Anchor stands are a must....much more stable and easier to position.

    • @issadad
      @issadad ปีที่แล้ว

      @@randylocke2951 Do you mean with the LFT 8C's?

    • @issadad
      @issadad ปีที่แล้ว

      What will you use to drive them?

    • @amishvette1590
      @amishvette1590 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@issadad Rotel RB 1590 @ 350 WPC

  • @TheDanEdwards
    @TheDanEdwards ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Thigpen has been at this speaker business for a long time. Many years ago (at least 35) I tried out an LFT-IV, that was the last model before making hybrids, all panel speaker. It had its strengths but just didn't work in my room. I ended up with Magnepan 2.5R in same space. Yes, a different sound between them, even though both are planar magnetics (though of course the 2.5R had the aluminum true ribbon tweeter.) *Bottom line* is this: people who have had box speakers all their lives really should try out some non-box speakers if for no other reason to get the experience of a different kind of sound in their room.

  • @TheMikecho
    @TheMikecho ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I own many speakers including several Maggie’s and ML’s speakers.
    This is my favorite speaker by far.

    • @issadad
      @issadad ปีที่แล้ว

      Then please tell me what you use to drive them. I'm about to buy the LFT-8C's and I will need an int amp. Thanks.

    • @TheMikecho
      @TheMikecho ปีที่แล้ว

      @@issadad i got many amps and folllowing combo give me best sound "THETA generation viii series 3 DAC" with "KRELL theater amplifier standard".

  • @colingatwood4531
    @colingatwood4531 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks for your great channel. I've enjoyed my Eminent Techs for about 10 years now.

  • @danm1995
    @danm1995 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    Steve, your enthusiasm is justified! I've been enjoying the 8b for 5 years now and your review is spot-on - clarity, image size, focus, and spatial separation are outstanding. Mine are positioned 4' from the front wall, 7' apart, and 7' from the listening position, slightly toed in. I've added Sound Anchor stands. The midrange and tweeter drivers interact very little with the side walls, floor and ceiling so sounds great without extensive room treatment. I'm currently using a Rogue Audio CMIII in triode mode (60 wpc) and there's just enough power to hit 90db peaks - loud enough for my listening tastes. They sound great with all genres of music, especially jazz! Bruce Thigpen's customer support has been the best I've ever experienced from a manufacturer. Highly recommended!

    • @mjot2360
      @mjot2360 ปีที่แล้ว

      Do they go deep in the bass?

    • @adrianrorvik7488
      @adrianrorvik7488 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@mjot2360 rated down to 25hz, but a subwoofer or 2 is still recommended (by me and others who have used these speakers). Having said that, I know that the latest LFT8b has a redesigned woofer which has more oomph than those I have heard.

    • @keplermission
      @keplermission ปีที่แล้ว

      @@mjot2360 Cronus Magnum III are good ($4000) but the DAYTON AUDIO HTA100 is better ($300). We need to use Lanzar Car Audio speakers ($20) and a Lanzar subwoofer ($20). The DAYTON is going to give image, size and focus but you'll have to build your own cabinets.

    • @randylocke2951
      @randylocke2951 ปีที่แล้ว

      My setup is almost identical to yours..LFTs 7 ft apart and listening position about 7 ft back. I was using Dynakit monoblocks tube amps and just changed to the Michi X3 series 2. The midrange and dynamics are much much better with the solid state amp. If you have not, I recommend trying a higher powered solid state amp with the LFTs.

    • @randylocke2951
      @randylocke2951 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@mjot2360 They have great bass an if you get the powered sub version, the bass is even better.

  • @johnrhodesguitartuition
    @johnrhodesguitartuition ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Fascinating. Great review by an enthusiastic gifted inspired reviewer . Love it

  • @John-Edward
    @John-Edward ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Great review Steve! Makes me want to get the LFT8b!!!

    • @keplermission
      @keplermission ปีที่แล้ว

      No the owners you know, wouldn't want someone that looks like you to get his hands on any of those. A person like yourself best stick to wall hangings.

  • @stevemd8947
    @stevemd8947 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    This speaker has been on my short list since the early 90's. Maybe now I will buy a pair.

  • @johnruppert5630
    @johnruppert5630 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Steve your enthusiasm is almost as good as the speakers😂🎉🎉

  • @adrianrorvik7488
    @adrianrorvik7488 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thanks so much Steve. I loved my LFT8bs (and their little siblings, the LFT16). I still miss them, though happy with my Altec Lansing speakers. The "C" version? Oooooh, yes please! Can hardy wait for THAT review.

  • @xilebat
    @xilebat ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Sounds like a fun and innovative speaker.
    Sadly, my room is not a candidate.
    I would love to see a tiered presentation of speakers that play well at low volumes very close to the rear wall.

  • @FrankZappa1959
    @FrankZappa1959 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Steve, these very speakers got me hooked over 30 years ago. that's how long this manufacturer has been around. I can remember exactly when my hi-fi dealer had these speakers in the studio and he hooked them up for me. I've never heard something so ingenious before and since then I've been an absolute magnetostat lover.

    • @keplermission
      @keplermission ปีที่แล้ว

      Well you know ... dipole has been around a long time in the USA but not in Britain. What's the secret of success? Well ... an amplifier designed to run with a passive radiator speaker, a speaker you know, like a Rola Celestion Ditton 25 but these had a very awkward 4-8 load, meaning the impedance shifted about and had a slight reverb effect, so that they needed specially tuned amplifiers that were both very powerful and could cope with clarity after reverb effects. So what amplifier did Celestion Ditton A.B.R. use? Well ... they used the Swiss Revox and Danish Bang & Olufsen ... and they were out of most people's price range. Very expensive and later ... made for B&o by Celestion. The Dipole speakers use these amplifiers.

    • @bbophead1
      @bbophead1 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@keplermission I thought QUAD 57s were dipole. No? Perhaps there is a US dipole speaker that is older(?).

    • @keplermission
      @keplermission ปีที่แล้ว

      @@bbophead1 Steve is in a deleting mood. Klipsh Forte is dipole. QUAD ESL-57 ..? I know the British QUAD ... Quality Unit Acoustical Design but 😁

    • @bbophead1
      @bbophead1 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@keplermission but?

    • @keplermission
      @keplermission ปีที่แล้ว

      @@bbophead1 but Steve would delete anything longer.

  • @kevindeem7174
    @kevindeem7174 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I have the 90's version, still works , had to replace one of high frequency foil membranes, but still work, so glad I bought them, I have many different speaker types, it is good to rotate them now and then , ❤

    • @crazyprayingmantis5596
      @crazyprayingmantis5596 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      What's your favourite type and why?

    • @kevindeem7174
      @kevindeem7174 ปีที่แล้ว

      @Crazy prayingmantis I like all of the ones I have. I have been a speaker builder too for many, many years, they all give a different flavor, I need a bigger house! 🤣, depending on the music type that makes each speaker suitable for that, those planners don't really work for metallica or stuff like that, acustic rock is nice, jazz, big band, vinyl records with really good records, very wide, and open, can be haunting, I love all my equipment

  • @saulbrook7740
    @saulbrook7740 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    It's good to see ET getting a little mainstream exposure ("mainstream" being a relative concept). Bought my LFT8a for about $1400 with the Sound Anchors stands back in 2005? Upgraded to the B tweeters a couple of years later and for $1800 invested they are giant killers. Ran with 400wpc ss for a number of years and then switched to tubes. Cary SLM100 monoblocks. They are a very tube friendly load. No issues driving them to house filling levels even in triode mode at 55wpc.

  • @scottfraser1758
    @scottfraser1758 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Hmmm, another option to consider Years ago I used to own a pair of Apogee Centaur minors. They were my favourites until they came to an unforeseeable end. I was thinking about the small magnepans but now....

  • @paulstearns93
    @paulstearns93 ปีที่แล้ว

    Years ago I set up an appointment to listen to a pair at a local dealer who is still one of the dealers of the speakers. When I arrived they were sitting against the back wall covered in dust. The proprietor proceeded to sit me down to and evangelize (proselytize?) about a super high end pure analog system of immense cost with small towers. After his rapturous ramblings of the purity of the sound, I interjected, "I like multichannel music from digital sources." (I have since come to also appreciate good two channel systems). It was as though I kicked his dog.
    Needless to say I never heard these speakers. I had the opportunity to hear an ET prototype at the '23 Florida Audio Expo, which included the mid/tweeter panel from the 8B with powered, DSPed tower woofers, and it was impressive.
    When compared to my existing system, I am still enamored with, and haven't found a reason to lust after other speakers, at least those which cost less than my first house. My current system include Magnepan 2.7s and OB subwoofers. I would be interested in your thoughts on larger Maggies, 1.7i and 3.7i which bracket the $3,200 price point.

  • @De132an
    @De132an ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Good review Steve. I’ve own an LFT8b for about 14 yrs up to todays b version. It’s superb! Moving to my new home just recently to which I have to now share my living room it forced me to go to a large bookshelf. A new c version is yet to come btw. Bruce is a great guy to be sure. Maybe one day you will get to hear a now discontinued LFT-VI for something really special. A true Cory Greenberg of Stereophile “back in the day” special atf. Anyone interested in an LFT8B, don’t forget the Sound Anchor dedicated stands.

  • @mrtunapie6653
    @mrtunapie6653 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Wow! Eminent Tech still makes the LFT's!!?? I had a pair of the originals a long time ago. They were way bigger then these though and heavy as hell. I wish I still had them. Selling them is one of the biggest regrets in my life ... 😢😢

    • @keplermission
      @keplermission ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Well I had a Realistic STA-2290 receiver and you know, felt the same way but it was huge, I mean talk about a 1988 Chevrolet Caprice Wagon. I used to you know, get a measuring tape and just wish that it wasn't so big. It wasn't high but length and depth, it was probably bigger than the later Carver MXR-150. But these are truly great receivers for the Tannoy Little Gold Monitor that has an edge-wound motor, you know, that few amplifiers could sound good with, unless designed for Dynaudio or later JBL.

  • @richardsmith6431
    @richardsmith6431 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Steve is entirely correct about these speakers being better than Magnepan. In the early ‘90’s I traded Maggie IIIbs for the LFT VIII. No comparison.

  • @eoglander
    @eoglander ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I have the smaller version of these. The LFT 16A. They're unreal. Bruce is a class act.

  • @carlosoliveira-rc2xt
    @carlosoliveira-rc2xt ปีที่แล้ว +3

    As a side benefit, the rotary sub can cool one's Class A amp.

  • @ProgRockKeys
    @ProgRockKeys ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Reminds me of my IRS Betas, by Infinity. Also 30 some years old.

  • @RogierYou
    @RogierYou ปีที่แล้ว +7

    I hope this speaker is better then their website....

  • @asan1050
    @asan1050 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Steve!..Thanks Much !.......👍

  • @dannyng5427
    @dannyng5427 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Sonigistix was licensed from Eminent and developed their planer speakers. They were sold to Monsoon. Monsoon FPF-1000's are not expensive in the used market.

  • @marcobertolazzi2266
    @marcobertolazzi2266 ปีที่แล้ว

    Steve thanks to your review todayI bought the Mofi 10. Even this review Is simply great, your way to provide concrete images through the words is almost unique. Sei bravo!🎉

  • @billwoodman4658
    @billwoodman4658 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I owned the LFT-3 in the 80/90's and loved them. Had to sell them because they were too big for my new listening room.

  • @larrygaines7462
    @larrygaines7462 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I built a sub for Maggie in 1978.
    Separate amp,hand built lo pass . It was 10 in sealed 70 watt. yamaha amp, awesome

  • @randylocke2951
    @randylocke2951 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I have a pair with the powered subs. I’m driving them with the Michi X3 series 2. The system sounds amazing.

  • @carlitomelon4610
    @carlitomelon4610 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I auditioned an electrostatic Martin Logan/McIntosh system recently... (My second experience. Fellow had just upgraded to a newer ML design)
    Yes, very transparent & focused sound but ethereal as you said Steve.
    Definitely not my thing.
    Back home to my LRS/REL system and much happier with the visceral impact and body the players have.
    There is enough focus to give me the hall acoustic space I crave too.
    These look interesting.
    Would be nice if the frames completely surrounded the driver array.
    Built my LRS into vertical oak frames.
    🎵🎶🤫🎶🎵

  • @69A12SuperBee
    @69A12SuperBee ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I don’t know, but I still love my Magnepans 😍

  • @erics9754
    @erics9754 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Here is a little background on my taste I love dynamic music horns classical Frank Zappa Cat Stevens Supertramp blues anything that is produced well and all types of music are made with care and love and passion. The quads I tried are not bad to light and have no impact. Sanders Sound electrostatic with woofer with a bass wave guide tube, not bad maggies 1.7 and 3.7 not bad used with a Rel B1 not too shabby Soundlab A1PX beats all of them and it's not close. I would bet my life that you will like them but use the right amps as I mentioned. If you can please try to review them and talk to people that have used them you will be doing yourself and all of us audio freaks a favor. Like I said I like how you present things in a careful and thoughtful manor. You come across as a good and honest man with a welcoming personality thanks again for all of your hard work.

  • @romanpovcher3923
    @romanpovcher3923 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Hi Steve. Great review! How does it compare to Magnepan 1.7i, or a 3.7i? Thank you!

  • @roccobruno8027
    @roccobruno8027 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Seems quite impressive, especially given the reasonable price.

  • @danielwilliams1921
    @danielwilliams1921 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Ordered a pair - can’t wait! (December delivery.)

  • @bobb.9917
    @bobb.9917 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I have not seen you this excited since you reviewed the Duet 15! OK…so you have to come back with a comparison of the LFT 8 and The Duet 15 once you have installed the additional woofer kit!
    This is all fun and interesting!

  • @noahman27
    @noahman27 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Steve. I love your videos. Your story telling is what always wins! I love it. So, when are you going to do a video on Thigpen's SUB-Subwoofer? It sounds awesome!

  • @nonsequitor
    @nonsequitor ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Funny you mention Thigpen. . Heard PS Audio in a rotary sub video pretending he didn't know what happened after the first rotary sub like he went out of business 😂

  • @arjunroy4555
    @arjunroy4555 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    this model was a value leader for years, since passed by, however I suspect the 8C version with its dsp will be a significant upgrade and potentially make this a game changer at its price point and beyond

  • @DM-ws7pd
    @DM-ws7pd ปีที่แล้ว +1

    What took you so long Steve? LFT-8x have been around for 25+ years! I upgraded from Acoustic M3's (door sized panels) maybe 20 years ago to LFT 8a's and then 8b's. I compared the two speakers for maybe a year. The electrostatics might have been faster and a tiny bit more resolving but the LFTs were just more pleasant and had more heft. You compared the LFTs to the Maggies with a "IN THIS ROOM" statement a couple of times. Sounded like you were implying something. Nice review though!

  • @alexmonteiropraca6585
    @alexmonteiropraca6585 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Hi Steve, I was watching some of your old videos and just decided to come here and make you a tribute. You know a lot about audio. That is really respectable and very much admirable. I am a beginner and still have lots, but lots to learn. Thanks to you... my journey has begun!! Please keep doing this awesome job. I also have a question, in your view, how to motivate and even captivate young people to enjoy audio? Life must go on as you know...Cheers!

  • @Pixeltrainer
    @Pixeltrainer ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I had a pair of these and they are GREAT sounding speakers! It turned out they were too big for my family room however so I returned them. If I ever hit the lotto and can buy a larger house I plan to reorder a pair! I highly recommend them!!!

  • @peterw2714
    @peterw2714 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for putting in words how panel speakers sound to me. they tend to sound airy and light, but there’s never been any meat to the music.

  • @user-nq4sz1uw2m
    @user-nq4sz1uw2m ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I have the 8c upgrade & yes it does make a big difference.

    • @issadad
      @issadad ปีที่แล้ว

      Been hoping to find somebody here who has LFT-8C. My space is big, 30x22 with 15ft ceilings. I'd put the 8C's on the long wall abt 8 ft apart, abt 3 ft out from the wall behind them, abt 9 ft from me. With such high ceilings, I'm looking for soundstage height as well as depth and width -- a big sound that envelops me. Mostly classical orch music. Above all, I need help selecting an int amp. What have you found that you like?

    • @user-nq4sz1uw2m
      @user-nq4sz1uw2m ปีที่แล้ว

      @@issadad hi, I use NAT or Doshi mono blocks. I’ve never used an int. amp so I’m not sure how much I can help you.

  • @danielwilliams1921
    @danielwilliams1921 ปีที่แล้ว

    I’m definitely checking these out - thanks!❤🎶

  • @iampryso9548
    @iampryso9548 ปีที่แล้ว

    Steve, re: dipole placement. Years ago a Bell Labs study determined that at least a 10 millisecond delay was needed between direct and reflected sound for best clarity and definition. Fortunately sound travels at about 1'/ms so placement calculations can be easy. I've commented on this on a couple of audio sites but it doesn't generate much comment.
    Placing dipole speakers at least 5' or more out from the front wall can achieve that 10 ms delay for sounds projected from the rear of the panel. When placement must be closer to the wall then experimentation with dispersion panels should be helpful.
    Also, I believe you can find push/pull designs in Maggies but you need to look in the upper portion of their line up.

  • @michellevey9608
    @michellevey9608 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Steve you're my favorite speaker reviewer.

  • @jvburnes
    @jvburnes ปีที่แล้ว +2

    How would these compare to the Maggi 1.7s? Not really fair to compare a $1000 set of speakers to a $3200 pair.

  • @robk5745
    @robk5745 ปีที่แล้ว

    Looks like an amazing speaker for the money! Thanks for the review.

  • @Upracefan
    @Upracefan ปีที่แล้ว

    I listened to a set of those back in the 90s I think, they were incredible.

  • @btbb3726
    @btbb3726 ปีที่แล้ว

    Many years ago I owned a pair of EPI electrostatic (?the correct terminology?) speakers. The speakers were about 40-ish inches tall. They were boxes but each had an electrostatic panel that filled the upper 1/2 to 2/3 of the speaker face and then an additional ~10”(?) cone speaker in the lower portion the speaker. I was separated from them at some point but my recollection is that they ok sounded nice - very clear with good separation in the mid to upper range. (I apologize for any Luddite terminology above but I hope you get the idea). Also, very cool channel, even for a non-audiophile (I have an audiophile heart but I don’t have an audiophile wallet 😜).

  • @NK-me9yz
    @NK-me9yz ปีที่แล้ว

    It's about 30 years ago that I had the chance to hear a pair of Apogee Diva on Treshold Monos in a private setup. It was amazing, especially big Classic orchestra. We heard Mahlers second Symphony conducted by Inbal on Denon one point recording. At the end Time from Pink Floyd. It is very special with electrostatic and magnetostatic, you have to try it at least once.

  • @jasonmelo9379
    @jasonmelo9379 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    How can that 8-in woofer possibly go down so low, especially that it's a sealed cabinets?

  • @jvburnes
    @jvburnes ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This review is going to totally overload Eminents factory :)

  • @mgaming7
    @mgaming7 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    So how do they compare to Martin Logans? It seems to me, that would be a better comparison than Maggies that don't have woofers.

  • @steveee2511
    @steveee2511 ปีที่แล้ว

    i had the oportunity to hear a kind of french made luxury magnepan and was amazed they are called Diptyque audio woud be cool to hear your rewiev on them

  • @yourdiytechlife
    @yourdiytechlife ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Oh my, you weren’t kidding about their web site. Fortunately web sites don’t design and build speakers. 😉

  • @FOH3663
    @FOH3663 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Had an Eminent Technology local dealer back in the 80's/90's ... those push/pull drive units are unlike anything I've ever heard.
    The 81dB sensitivity of the LFT IV kept me from buying them ... but I truly enjoyed experiencing them expertly set up at this great local dealer ... incredible soundstage with miles of depth.
    Nice owner operator shop in Indy on N. Keystone ... Bruce maybe, brilliant dude.

    • @RyanStone143
      @RyanStone143 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      That would have been Tone Studio, the owner played cello with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra but I can't remember his name. He played the LFT 8s for me. I brought in some of my music and most of it sounded terrible because the 8s are so revealing. Then he introduced me to "Barefoot (1990, CD)" and blew my mind.

    • @FOH3663
      @FOH3663 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@RyanStone143
      Nice!
      I don't believe I've encountered anyone that remembered him and that shop.
      I made a habit of stopping in because he always had a selection of tasty pre-owned gear that I'd buy. I didn't but them but Inremember Apogee ribbon panels, big EV Sentry pair, Dahlquist DQM-9, and of course his Energy and Eminent Technology panels.
      I purchased new California Audio Labs CD playback from him, some other electronics too, I'm not sure I ever bought loudspeakers from him.
      I seem to recall he had a long time partner/associate there too. Then they moved up to Allisonville Rd.

  • @2mikelim
    @2mikelim ปีที่แล้ว

    Change all existing connecting copper wires into pure silver like Audionote (if you can get short lengths) and its sound will be taken to the next level! I had done the same to my LFT-16

  • @rx7dude2006
    @rx7dude2006 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    Its 3 times the price of the LRS+ but is it 3 times better?

    • @gaborozorai3714
      @gaborozorai3714 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      It's a larger panel speaker with a sub thrown in. It basically addresses the LRS+'s shortcomings. In the world of typical audiophile hifi pricing this is not a big premium to pay.

    • @gregoryfrassetti1276
      @gregoryfrassetti1276 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Too bad we still don't know when the Maggie Sub is coming out and how much it will cost.
      But these are pretty cool if you ask me.

    • @TheMikecho
      @TheMikecho ปีที่แล้ว

      I own both and it’s amazing speaker.

    • @navinadv
      @navinadv ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@gaborozorai3714 sorta like Martin Logan? The challenge with integrating a subwoofer to a Maggie is that the Maggies are so quick. The best I could manage was a DIY 10” Peerless Isobarik TL woofer (used 2 831727) with the MMGa.

    • @JohnLee-db9zt
      @JohnLee-db9zt ปีที่แล้ว

      Obviously not.😂 There’s never been a linear relationship between price and sound in high end.

  • @gregoryfrassetti1276
    @gregoryfrassetti1276 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Too bad we still don't know when the Maggie Sub is coming out and how much it will cost.
    But these are pretty cool if you ask me.

  • @Mr70hemi
    @Mr70hemi ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Steve you should compare these to Martin Logan Classic ESL 9

    • @mjot2360
      @mjot2360 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      ESL 9 is twice the price. I bet the ET's would do well in a comparison.

  • @melbguy1
    @melbguy1 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Apparently the LFT8C is a significant upgrade over the 8B & is a good deal for $4.5kUS

  • @mgt1701
    @mgt1701 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hi Steve - Great video! Any thoughts about comparing the Magnepans in the same price range to the LFT8b. I believe that is the Magnepan 3.7 (about $3700 pair), the Magnepan 1.7 is about ($2400 pair)....that way not comparing apples to oranges (re price equivalency).

  • @rw3915
    @rw3915 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Like always, nice job. As someone wrote, your enthusiasm is wonderful. Just out of curiosity, when testing the speaker, did your front end consist of the Pass Labs XP30 preamp, and the Jay's Audio/Terminator DAC? If not, mentioning that which was used would be great. What also would be great is inserting perhaps a 15 second audio clip in your video. Then again, just keep on keepin' on!

    • @SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac
      @SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      The preamp is mostly the LTA , the DAC mola mola Tambaqui, and Jay's CD transport

    • @issadad
      @issadad ปีที่แล้ว

      @@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac I second the suggestion for a sound clip in your videos.

  • @scottbernard8824
    @scottbernard8824 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Wouldn't 1 Hertz actually be 1 Hert?

    • @Josh442
      @Josh442 ปีที่แล้ว

      LOL

  • @aceofspades6667
    @aceofspades6667 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    These vs spatial m3 sapphire and spatial x5 ? Or even the spatial audio labs m4 sapphire you reviewed previously?

  • @garytotty3971
    @garytotty3971 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    sounds interesting! Was thinking about Maggie (1.7's) with a Revel sub plus a crossover. My amps will drive them easily, and now have to give these guys some thought. My issues are imaging, and depth of the sound stage.

    • @keplermission
      @keplermission ปีที่แล้ว

      I wanted the USA to import the GLL Imagio IC120 speakers, the IC130 is on You Tube and in a custom cabinet like mine. They're awesome in imaging and depth of sound stage. There was a lot of these Imagio speaker models but the original ones were best. The USA didn't value the design, it was better than the KEF Uni-Q, far superior.

  • @garysmith8455
    @garysmith8455 ปีที่แล้ว

    Steve, I was surprised that they are only 83 db efficient ! My Martin Logan (you now revealed your feelings toward ESTATS 😢) Classic 9's are at 90 DB! I don't believe these ribbons would have the same punch or more dynamics over the ML's with a Parasound A21 at 400w per ch. which is the recommended power. But then again, the price points are quite different. 🙂

  • @stevemd8947
    @stevemd8947 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Steve - Did you play any classical piano music? If yes, was the center image rock solid? Thank you.

  • @marantz7783
    @marantz7783 ปีที่แล้ว

    Bruce Thigpen is a frooking genius--hi Bruce ( and a very nice guy)

  • @JohnVander70
    @JohnVander70 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great review!

  • @jasonmelo9379
    @jasonmelo9379 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I'm guessing this is a sit-down speaker. I'm sure all the trebble goes away when you stand up due to the length of the tweeter.

  • @Justwantahover
    @Justwantahover ปีที่แล้ว

    For a speaker of that class and size the price is really good! Well worth 3 grand.

  • @antitrustnomonopoly8291
    @antitrustnomonopoly8291 ปีที่แล้ว

    Maggies are capable to deliver very quality bass absolutely fantastic for classical music playback like pipe organ
    but demands crazy amplification that warms up space a lot (I've been using sustained plateua bias class A mono blocks yet too much heat to cope with)
    few watts of class A is plenty for my stereo today (back loaded full range)

  • @5thlevelweb887
    @5thlevelweb887 3 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Would these be an upgrade over my Martin Logan Electromotion ESLs?

  • @mostirreverent
    @mostirreverent 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Being so close to those woofers activate the floor. Do you need iso acoustic feet or something

  • @The-Spotlight-Kid
    @The-Spotlight-Kid ปีที่แล้ว

    I was surprised to see the thumbnail pic' with this E.T. Speaker's model number, unchanged since I first read & saw pic's of this exact same speaker in a u.k. mag called 'Hi-Fi World" (the only decent enough u.k. hi-fi mag) when they were 1'st made by E.T. back in the 90's. They also loved its sound & described the push-pull drive arrangement & it's according extra dynamic ability compared with single-sided magnetic drive, it was about 1800'ish or upto 2000 g.b.£ back then, so hasn't gone up in time-adjusted dollars. I was into & owned Quad ELS 57 & Accustat model 'X's, both s/h buys but would have bought these ET's if I'd had the money back then on the strength of that review, i'm nearly certain, but I heard nothing about them aftef & no other (pre-net) reviews of this speaker after that, until now. Obviously a worthy design then. I re-fancy a pair now

  • @mjot2360
    @mjot2360 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Steve - How was the transition from the mid range driver to the tweeter? Some say it's not 100% seamless.

  • @felipencl
    @felipencl ปีที่แล้ว

    Awesome Elac UBR62 on the stands. Great speakers. 🎶

  • @silvanosiviero5015
    @silvanosiviero5015 ปีที่แล้ว

    La cosa fenomenale dei diffusori Eminent è che la distorsione è virtualmente azzerata.

  • @hansgreulich6768
    @hansgreulich6768 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Magnepan 1.7i or this one . . . Which should I buy?

    • @issadad
      @issadad ปีที่แล้ว

      I have same problem. What did you decide?

    • @hansgreulich6768
      @hansgreulich6768 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@issadad I bought 1.7i, because I live in Minnesota and wanted to support local brand. Like em. But not sure if these would be better. Driving them with an Audio Research DSI-200. So 100% Minnesota system.

    • @issadad
      @issadad ปีที่แล้ว

      @@hansgreulich6768 Thanks, Hans. I may very well follow in your footsteps. In honor of your reply, I just read Neil Gader's old review in The Absolute Sound of the ARC DSi200, which I'd have to locate used (about $2500?), always a little nerve-wracking, and which I'd have to augment with a phono stage. But I've owned Audio Research gear, love the company. The Maggies must love the power & high damping of the DSi200. How's the synergy so far? You thrilled? Gader's only serious criticism was lack of soundstage depth. Do you agree? My space has 15 ft ceilings so I'd like a huge soundstage - tall, wide, deep, enveloping -- the air filled with music. Think your combo could get me close to that?

  • @OldTooly
    @OldTooly ปีที่แล้ว

    These speakers are enormously interesting, Thanks for the review. I must ask, your seating position was 9 feet. How close do you think you could sit to get most of this speaker's potential? 4 feet from my wall will reduce my speaker to seating distance accordingly, in my already too small room.

  • @marantz7783
    @marantz7783 ปีที่แล้ว

    Bruce is a Prince !!

  • @dwaynesbadchemicals
    @dwaynesbadchemicals 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    So are these speakers good for classical?

  • @ramesh520
    @ramesh520 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hi Steve,since I've gotten partial to imaging of dual coax speakers,how do these compare to Mofi pointsource 10? Or Any of the dual coax speakers?

    • @SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac
      @SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac  ปีที่แล้ว

      The eminent is far superior, if you have the room to give it space! Can't put these near a wall, and you have a high-quality hundred watt plus amp.

  • @Dirtweed
    @Dirtweed ปีที่แล้ว

    A lot more compact than the Acoustat Spectre 2 that I have in the living room.

  • @stephenstevens6573
    @stephenstevens6573 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I'm gobdmacked...very seldom does Steve rave about a speaker...electronics? Yes, occasionally, but seldom speakers...now...on top of that, he had devasted my speakers of choice whole doing it??? How dare he diss my Maggie's...but, I have to say, to do it on its own wheelhouse is really quite extraordinary! I thought I was done with speakers and now you throw this in my face,! Doubt I will be able to afford these, but dammit, he makes me want to try!