Through grado headphones the PS Audio was more open and had more air but the Magico had more bass and certain details were clearer which is weird. Very close match! For me I would pick the PS Audio.
Close call. I asked myself on which speaker I enjoy listening to all the songs more... and in the end it was the FR5. Although the Magico definitely sound fuller and richer, I would choose the FR5. They sound a bit thinner, yes… but also fresher and snappier.
FR5 is smooth, warm, large, with deep bass. A1 is more transparent and detailed especially in the bass and midrange. It seems to have a more neutral, dense cabinet. A1 Bass control is better and it's definitely more audiophile in general. The Tweeter in the FR5 is beautiful, so smooth, airy and non fatiguing.
Good music Jay, first song reminds me of Greg Brown’s Poet Game album. The second track reminds me of Curandero’s Aras album. Honestly, I like the music more than both speakers. Thanks for the effort!
@xsamitt Whatever "artificial bloat" you heard is/was due to the specific acoustic room contributions to the sound, because these speakers are quite neutral in spectral balance. The acoustics of the room, the speaker's placement in the room, and your listening position all have a SIGNIFICANT impact on the final result you will hear. And "Artificial Bloat" is also an extremely vague term which you should define more specifically.
@@bbfoto7248 While all of what you said is true to a point, your do realize(I hope)that the magicos are placed in the exact same room,same placement,with same equipment(All the varabile are the same)......one only has to listen to the Magico's to understand what bloat is for comparison, which this video brilliantly lays this very unattractive negative to the fore.While at the same time pointing out the positive virtues of the unforaintly more expensive speakers.
Through my Audeze Headphones the Magico show why they are more expensive through finer detail and precision, but PS Audios’ seem to have a little more “AIR”?? Hard to perceive much about soundstage depth.
@brentcollins9727 While the Magico bookies may indeed "sound better" to you here in Jay's room, it would honestly be laughable to make a purchase decision between the two based on the audio presented in this video. :/ The unique acoustic properties of any given room, combined with the speaker placement within that specific room, and your listening position in the room will have a significant impact on the overall sound and will determine the ultimate performance of the speakers and how "good" or "bad" they perform in the end.
Damn. I was really assuming that I would prefer the sound from the Magicos and I think that the PS Audio PR5 speakers edged them out for me. Wow. A really nice job Jay.
I think it's fantastic that people can decide which speaker is best through a microphone, TH-cam, and their own speakers. Next time you have to buy new speakers, just ask the dealer to send a recording of the speakers.
Even that Magico sound better over all I can stay with the PS Audio easy cuz that level of peformance at that price why ask for more ? A better way to spend $10,000 is $4,000 in PS Audio and the rest $6,000 in amp, streamer,cd or turntable preatty sure gonna end with a dammmmmn system.Thank Jay thats the kind of review that Your followers need, live sesions so We can hear the prove .Other reviewers dont do that anymore thats why I dont follow it " show Me the prove" 😊 thx again and
On my first run through some was off with the magicos, but wasn't sure what yet. So I switched to my big system, the magicos upper end hi's aren't quite right, sharper at the edges. The sound stage with the magicos seems flatter. The only win the magicos had in my eyes was the lower end but add 2 good subs to the FR5s and you could make up for that difference. I might have to listen on my third system later to see if my opinion changes.
Thanks for the hard work putting this together. Listening through my M&D earphones and B&W headphones the Magicos sound fuller in every aspect,more refined, clearer, etc…. However, when you consider the price difference PS Audio is the winner because for the price of the Magocos one can am put together a whole system with the FR5s and be very very happy with it for a long time. Personally, I had been looking at PS audio, and now, thanks to you I have a comparison. A quality integrated Tube amp to start with, and add a SS amp layer to take advantage of the bi-amping feature will result in a very good sounding system. Thanks Jay Cheers & Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays.
@jaysullivan9545 - The Magico isn’t tuned for a ribbon or any other tweeter. They would have to create another speaker. Also, the cabinet material will affect how the ribbon tweeter sounds. The Magico is aluminum? The PS Audio is not
@@Eric-z6f We get that. If Magico's goal is to be like Focal and have a sharp sound up top and that's their market niche, then ok. I think there's a lot of comments out there saying they'd benefit from smoothing things out (where's there's smoke there's fire). Maybe they have to redesign the cabinet, maybe not, but that's not the customer's problem. If they want more sales, maybe that's something they should consider. But who knows, maybe those that like zippy tweeters are in the majority.
Great presentation. Would it be a good idea if there was a 3rd pair of speakers which cost somewhere between these 2 speakers? Like maybe a dynaudio HS? Btw, i prefer the Magico in this demo, but way above affordable for me. If i can afford this, i would have to ask myself if the huge price difference is well worth its higher audio quality.
These both are awesome sounding speakers. The Magico may have just a slight more in the low end but I'm blown away by the open soundstage of the PS Audio's Wow! Nice comparison YO!
The Magicos have a more continuous sound to me, with the vocals more organic and the instruments more solid and sweeter. The male vocal in song 1 was more "buzzy" on the PSA. Listening here on a Chord DAVE + (Original) KEF LS50s. I'll give my headphones a try later. This was my first impression before reading any comments here. Never heard either of these speakers before. (Same impression with female singer in Tainted Love.)
There’s a real difference. At first listen rapid back and forth I thought the magicos then after listening to each track full length and not rapidly switching, I prefer the FR5’s It’s the tweeter in the FR5 that swayed me. Very clean and revealing.
I think I had a similar experience. At first was drawn to the more well defined base response and midrange of the magicos, but then had the impression that the FR5’s are more open, and dare I say more lively. On the last track, the FR5’s to me, made the vocalist sound more alive, whereas she sounded sleepy with the A1’s.
I think there is definitely a common crossover market for both of them to compete in. Both would be targets for 2nd or 3rd systems in smaller rooms, desks, .... People with the big bucks might not care about the price difference, but here some prefer the FR5 regardless as well.
Listening to these through my speakers I thought the ps audios sounded better. I don’t know these songs however guessing they are free to play so maybe a link to those would help also so we can try them on our own system with out TH-cam. From the information I have though the ps audios seem like a great deal.
I can make my Proac 1SC sound just like the PSA then the Magico by switching the PrimaLuna from ultralinear to triode mode. So I can’t say which one is more colored because you’re using the same preamp/amp. The PSA is either too bright and lean, or the Magico too rolled off and warm. My Proacs are still the best deal. Perfect with tubes.
YT likely doesnt do justice to your set up. But even this Magico sounds a bit better. And ofcourse its a Magico house sound. Cheers and thanks for the effort.
Great work! Brilliant comparison, sounds to me the PS audio has better texture and layers, natural top end also. Magico seemed a bit more resonant in the room than the PS. Well done Jay👍🏽
I really like your way of doing this Jay! My first impression is that I prefer the Magico, but the more I’m listening, the FR5 are really impressive. I would probably go for the Magico, as they are more to my taste (warmer), but for the price, the FR5 are great!!! More of this content - thanks - this is fun😊
I kept going back and forth on each song and thru headphones, there is very little differences. If it's the same in person, I would go with the PS audio at a much lower price point. Thanks for the video Jay.
I admit my complete lack of expertise here but these speakers sound incrediblely close to each other. If I did have $10,000 to spend, I would buy the FR5s and a high quality amplifier. Thank you Jay for this!
If the comparison is stand mount to stand mount, just based on performance, not considering price, I'd pick the Magicos. They have a fuller, more effortless, and detailed sound. However, what's really the question? Is it "I have $4k to spend. Is the FR5 a speaker that will get me close enough to the performance of something like the A1 that I won't be disappointed?" or is it "I have $10k to spend. Would I prefer a Magico or PS Audio speaker?" In my opinion, the answer to the first question is a resounding YES! To answer the second question, the comparison would have to be between the Magico A1 and the PS Audio FR10. Yes, one is a stand mount and the other is a floor stander but they cost the same and take up the same amount of floor space
PS Audio sounded airier with bigger soundstage. Magico has a slight thicker mid range. Depending on music genre & taste but for the huge price differences my preference goes to PS Audio.
I'm listening to this video on Presonus Sceptre S6 near-field studio monitors and I had to turn the volume up to higher than normal to get the full experience. In my set up to me, the Magico's nudge out the PS Audio FR5s, but then, on other material, the PS Audio's take the lead. Tough choice. One thing does come through, those two are amazing bookshelves. I've never heard bookshelves deliver such full-bodied sound like that. Bravo Jay! Excellent comparison. I can see why hours of listening might be required to hail a winner.
First of all, thank you Jay for taking the time to to do this video comparison! Secondly, I like your approach and methodology to do the best you can within the limitations of TH-cam to bring this to your viewers. I listened using my 10th gen iPad with a Hidiz S9 Pro dongle DAC using the 2.5 balanced output to my KZ PR1 Pro planar magnetic IEMs through a Linsoul Tripowin Petrichor cable. To my ears they both sounded fantastic hooked to your impressive system. The FR5’s to me sounded more clinical and crisp compared to the Magico A1’s. The A1’s sounded warmer and more relaxed with more natural texture to the instruments. In this particular comparison I prefer ever so slightly the sound of the Magico’s. One thought I did have is how would the FR5’s sounded hooked up to a warmer tube amp? Thanks again Jay and keep doing what you are doing!
I use a Scarlett 2i2 gen 4 and a pair of Sennheiser HD-800 headphones to evaluate. Big sonic differences even from this flawed way of comparing speakers. I prefer the clarity, detail, texture, plucks on the guitar and bass, finger snaps, Piano attacks start and stop into silence on the Magico’s. All the PS Audio speakers that I have heard ( usually at AXPONA ) always have had this soft polite flavor. The FR5 also have a slight boxy sound to me. It makes me want to go hear them for a real and comparison. But the A1 has a major jump on them. As they should. $ Thanks for the fun !
Listening through EarPod Pros, the Magico seems to sound more hifi on Tainted Love, but maybe less organic. The hall sound/reverb seems more present on the PS in general. My gut is the FR5 would be more fun, especially with rock.
I am immediately drawn to the treble in the FR5 (excellent btw) while the Magico draws me in the the whole piece. My experience suggests that audiophiles would prefer the FR5 while musicians would vote for the Magico. I am a musician so I vote Magico, however, for the price, the FR5 would attract my money first.
I like the smoothness of the FR5.....I could listen to the FR5 for hours with no fatigue. also, price is good for the quality of sound. Thanks Jay for the comparison.
When I purchased my first decent amplifiers the dealer gave me Krell and audio research for a week at home and I found that the extended listening of both changed my perception and I have had many Audio Research amplifiers since. In the same way the immediacy and forward nature of the Magicos although seductive may be tiring over an extended period. Whatever, the FR5 are stunning for the price and are the Magicos are not 3 times better. Very interesting review Jay I’m sure many can put together great affordable systems with either speaker.
I don't think that there is a reasonable expectation that the Magico would sound two or three times better. When you get into systems like this, prices changes only bring incremental changes. So, it would only be reasonable, based on price, for the Magico speakers to sound marginally better and then you have to determine if you're willing to pay extra for that margin. In other words, is there enough value in the marginal improvement for you personally. If there isn't enough value-add or, if you like the PR5 speakers better, then you're going to save some money.
@@rangerrecon My sentiments entirely. I am thinking of getting a small two way and these are two contenders, but I would want to get an extended demo to see if I could live with either. Sadly for me marginal improvements aren't quantifiable in monetary terms and that is why my system has cost a lot more than it needs to. If I had the money I would no doubt spend the same as Jay.
Wow, that was interesting! On first listen the Magico was hands down the winner for clarity and the ability to hear every single note (especially plucked guitar and bass). I found this surprising because when I’ve heard Magico’s at audio shows, I didn’t like their “top-down” analytic sound. But, the more I listened (and watched on our large projector screen-perhaps mimicking the room), the Magico seemed in front of the speaker and the PS Audio behind the speaker. I think if I were there I’d lean towards the PS Audio for that reason, but I’d have to listen in person to really decide a “winner”. It was surprising how completely different their sounds were
The Magico A1 absolutely got a cleaner sound but the FR5 has a more musical bass and is just more fun. That and the huge price difference makes this an easy choice.
For me, the Magico easily wins with the first 2 songs for being smoother and revealing more detail. However, on the third song I felt the female vocals sounded more natural and less diffuse on the FR5, although unfortunately cymbals also sounded significantly louder on the FR5. If there's a speaker that's about half way between these two, that may be exactly what I'm looking for.
One speaker definitely sounded more articulate, resolving and holographic than the other. One speaker sounded more real, live than the other which exuded that polite hi-fi sound that we’re all accustomed to. “M” for magnificent! Thanks Jay!
You can clearly hear that the PSaudio generalizes the sound and sends it much wider, giving a lower quality contact to the sound being more glib. But probably still good value and warmth. While the Magico is a lot more sorted in sound, deep, and specific and coupled and handles traffical passages a hell of a lot better. Making the sound a lot more narrow/inward/deep, instead of mostly just ahead of the speaker and all over the place like PSaudio. So yes I think that both are super for the price.
What a great video, Jay....💪 Thank you for taking the time to put this together! I feel like the PS Audio has more dynamics when it comes to instruments. It's not as forward as the Magico, but it has great attack. I feel like it's a little more realistic in its presentation. The Magico can fill the room more (very spacious). The Magico is very airy and soft on the ears across the board but with great detail! I love a speaker with soft highs, and my ears are very sensitive to high frequencies. It's a very welcoming speaking!
Many thanks for the excellent video. In my listening setup I can hear that the Magico are better in terms of delivering details and more "realistic" in terms of ilusion of a live performance but there seem to be (might be my listening environment) an isssue with voicing. The FR5 are more balanced, the Magico somehow disjointed.
Oh wow, I listened this with my studio monitoring headphones and Magico is clear winner. It's much sparklier, tweeter seems brighter and bass seems faster, acoustic guitar sounds much real life with Magico's. It's like there's a thick veil in front of PS Audio's. And I tried to compare the two by jumping back and forth in video. Really interesting video!
Les ps audio sont d’excellentes enceintes mais ne peuvent pas rivaliser avec les magico . Victoire de magico plus de details, de précision et de scènes sonore . Bravo Jay !!!!!!
Great comparison Jay. Honestly I was not expecting the gap between these to be as large as it was. The FR5s were nice, but they did not have nearly the same level of clarity, and this was evident throughout the entire frequency range. The timbre of the magicos was superior as well. Vocals on the first track were much cleaner on the Magicos, but on the tainted love track, they went from good to ‘magical’.
@@jaysaudiolabso after reading some other comments I went and listened on my home system instead of my headphones. I still find that the magico excels in the clarity and vocal timbre however there is something about the FR5s body and full presentation that was overall more enjoyable to listen to. Apparently what you listen on matters:) your work is appreciated!
As someone with no prior preference or bias towards either speaker, the Magico does sound better to me. Having said that, the law of diminishing returns is on display here and begs the question whether the Magico is worth the additional 2x+ cost? I guess it really comes down to budget. I'd love to hear Magico VS ProAc
while you are correct there is a bigger picture from my perspective.There is no way i would pay 3500 US for a set of speakers that aren't good enough for me.I could buy something else much cheaper if I am not going to be fully engaged by said speaker! On the other hand going with the A1 from Magico I would feel that all that extra money is well spent money........In other words for me I will NOT feel Like the money spent gives me Any dissatisfaction un like PS Audio would!
Great Job,All in all I would take the FR5's..maybe get 2 pairs and still have money left.Who is doing the cover of Six Strings Down?Keep up the great work
Jay thank you for your task, very nice video. I find FR5 has a boxy sound, I have the impression that sound is more compressed, Magico are sweeter and delicate. But price difference is so huge!😢
Great job Jay. Glad to know that you continue to use a track i recommended two years ago, Duende, in your reference list. As for this comparison, it seems that the FR5 has wider and deeper soundstage, but the Magico has a richer midrange and more transparency in the treble range. I'm very familiar with these tracks, I would probably choose the FR5 as my preferred among these two, mainly for the quality of sound at excellent cost value. However, a better small standmount in this category would be KEF Reference one. It has a wider and taller soundstage, much better instrument imaging separation, equal in transparency, The shortcoming of the KEF reference is the midrange tends to be somewhat lean, as such a subwoofer is needed to add richness to the mids. Thanks always Jay.
through my AUDEZE'S LCD X ....yes the MAGICO is more analytical , more precise ... the PS audio more soft , and the velvet sound of this ribbon tweeter is very glad... BOTH AWESOME .
FR5 all the way. Not even close in terms of tone or the overall presentation. RAALS can sounds can sounds harsh, until you have few hours on them. How many hours do you have on each pair? Thanks for the demo. Which do you prefer?
I see that you have your speakers out in the room. I moved a lot, so many different rooms and I've always got the best sound by moving my speakers way far from the back wall, I find that the bass I get from the back wall also contributes to muffling the sound.
Let’s be clear. Very few will put either speaker in a room as acoustically well treated plus even fewer will have them connected to this level of electronics. The bottom line for me is they are both excellent speakers and the FR5 a superb value. Each have a special presentation that someone could get many hours of bliss listening to them. Well done Jay.
Thanks Jay for delivering on this. The Magico is the clear winner in every sound aspect. I was impressed with the difference in vocal clarity in song 1, the bass in song 2, and the airy highs in song 3. I would by the Magico if I could afford not only the speakers but the right matching equipment
Very informative video. Both are really good and have their strengths but I don't think I'm hearing $6000 worth of better sound with the Magicos. The bass on the PS5 sounded a bit muddy to me so if I got them and a pair of subwoofers, I would be very satisfied and it would still be a few thousand cheaper than the Magicos. Thanks for the comparisons, Jay.
They're not my kind of speakers , but I would take the PS Audio anyday , I think the passive radiator is making the difference and you get to save $6000.
I would say that in first song PS audio was eaten by far Magico was clear winner in all field's, but in 2nd song PS strike again considering price differences it was close, Magico had more tight bass, but in 3rd song completely drawn, and there i would go towards PS audio for souch nice and good performance price ratio as my choice. Overall point is proven not always more costing is better. Nice work
Well done Jay. Great recording and music choices. You’ve put in a lot of time and effort to bring this comparison to us. They both sound great. The Magicos sound warmer to me but the FR5s have better separation of instruments. The bass response of both is impressive. I prefer the FR5s I think. I’d love to hear the same comparison with a sub but I think you’ve done enough 👍
Lets say that both of these speakers are fabulous but there is definitely a clear winner. The Magico's, they are more clear better soundstage and the detail is incredible, but they should be for that price. If I had only heard the FR5's, I would be more than satisfied but when you compare the two there is a clear winner and that's not the FR5's.. I don't claim to be an audiophile by any means but I think I can tell good sound when I hear it. I think its time to start saving up. Good comparison. Thank you.
Let me know below which loudspeaker you prefer!
If no choice - PS AUDIO > MAGICO !!!
Big boys from PS AUDIO in studio , please !!!
This was great...next time, find a way to hide which speakers are 1 & 2, and then you will truly get unbiased opinions.
Through recording it is almost no difference, you should tell your impressions since you are there.
Through grado headphones the PS Audio was more open and had more air but the Magico had more bass and certain details were clearer which is weird. Very close match! For me I would pick the PS Audio.
Even if not ideal, these videos are more fun and interesting than listening to one or two guys talking for a half hour or more.
Close call. I asked myself on which speaker I enjoy listening to all the songs more... and in the end it was the FR5. Although the Magico definitely sound fuller and richer, I would choose the FR5. They sound a bit thinner, yes… but also fresher and snappier.
The FR5s have a bigger sound but seem to lack mid med, which the PS has.
FR5 is smooth, warm, large, with deep bass. A1 is more transparent and detailed especially in the bass and midrange. It seems to have a more neutral, dense cabinet. A1 Bass control is better and it's definitely more audiophile in general. The Tweeter in the FR5 is beautiful, so smooth, airy and non fatiguing.
I agree with your assessment!
Good music Jay, first song reminds me of Greg Brown’s Poet Game album. The second track reminds me of Curandero’s Aras album. Honestly, I like the music more than both speakers. Thanks for the effort!
You are the best Jay! |Thank you for your time ,effort!
Thanks man!
This last song - vocals and everything on the Magico are vastly superior… wow!
Cool
@@jaysaudiolab if you are inclined would love to see the Dali Epikore 3 or EPICON 2 in the lab!!
3X the 💰🤑
Jay this is the way to go dor your channel…keep this up…reviewing affordable speakers connected to the ultimate rig…well done
Thanks, will do!
Is it $6000 difference. .? In terms of a pure value for money the PS Audio give an exceptional performance.
If you can live with the artificial bloat then yes you are right! I can't!
I don't know what that is or what it sounds like. I guess I'm lucky, as it saves me $6000.
@xsamitt
Whatever "artificial bloat" you heard is/was due to the specific acoustic room contributions to the sound, because these speakers are quite neutral in spectral balance.
The acoustics of the room, the speaker's placement in the room, and your listening position all have a SIGNIFICANT impact on the final result you will hear.
And "Artificial Bloat" is also an extremely vague term which you should define more specifically.
@@bbfoto7248 While all of what you said is true to a point, your do realize(I hope)that the magicos are placed in the exact same room,same placement,with same equipment(All the varabile are the same)......one only has to listen to the Magico's to understand what bloat is for comparison, which this video brilliantly lays this very unattractive negative to the fore.While at the same time pointing out the positive virtues of the unforaintly more expensive speakers.
Magico sounds better at a first glance... but the PSAudio's soundstage depth and layering is at next level.
How did you hear a soundstage recorded over iPhone mic on TH-cam? Imagination… 😂😂😂
Great music , that you choose , blues , classic guitar etc
Many thanks!!
Through my Bowers and Wilkins headphones, the winner is…………. the Magico’s. A fantastic presentation Jay. Thanks so much for sharing it with us.
Your website seems to be down
Thanks!
@@texhomadentrepair6967yep
Through my Audeze Headphones the Magico show why they are more expensive through finer detail and precision, but PS Audios’ seem to have a little more “AIR”?? Hard to perceive much about soundstage depth.
@brentcollins9727
While the Magico bookies may indeed "sound better" to you here in Jay's room, it would honestly be laughable to make a purchase decision between the two based on the audio presented in this video. :/
The unique acoustic properties of any given room, combined with the speaker placement within that specific room, and your listening position in the room will have a significant impact on the overall sound and will determine the ultimate performance of the speakers and how "good" or "bad" they perform in the end.
Damn. I was really assuming that I would prefer the sound from the Magicos and I think that the PS Audio PR5 speakers edged them out for me. Wow. A really nice job Jay.
That’s cool!
Agree. I also prefer the PS Audio.
PS FR 5 ALL THE WAY for me ( my style of sound ), Thanks Jay , Wish You A Peaceful Christmas & A Wonderful NEW YEAR !
I think it's fantastic that people can decide which speaker is best through a microphone, TH-cam, and their own speakers. Next time you have to buy new speakers, just ask the dealer to send a recording of the speakers.
Nevertheless, with all other factors held constant there is a noticeable difference in the sound of the speakers. Make of it what you will.
Will the dealer send a recording of the two speakers recorded from the same mic with the same recording setup?
facts
Even that Magico sound better over all I can stay with the PS Audio easy cuz that level of peformance at that price why ask for more ? A better way to spend $10,000 is $4,000 in PS Audio and the rest $6,000 in amp, streamer,cd or turntable preatty sure gonna end with a dammmmmn system.Thank Jay thats the kind of review that Your followers need, live sesions so We can hear the prove .Other reviewers dont do that anymore thats why I dont follow it " show Me the prove" 😊 thx again and
Unfair comment .. and u are discrediting the immense effort that goes into producing the video.
They both sound wonderful. I believe it's just a matter of taste and funds.
I would be happy with either speaker and think they are both priced fairly.
On my first run through some was off with the magicos, but wasn't sure what yet. So I switched to my big system, the magicos upper end hi's aren't quite right, sharper at the edges. The sound stage with the magicos seems flatter.
The only win the magicos had in my eyes was the lower end but add 2 good subs to the FR5s and you could make up for that difference.
I might have to listen on my third system later to see if my opinion changes.
Thanks for the hard work putting this together. Listening through my M&D earphones and B&W headphones the Magicos sound fuller in every aspect,more refined, clearer, etc…. However, when you consider the price difference PS Audio is the winner because for the price of the Magocos one can am put together a whole system with the FR5s and be very very happy with it for a long time. Personally, I had been looking at PS audio, and now, thanks to you I have a comparison. A quality integrated Tube amp to start with, and add a SS amp layer to take advantage of the bi-amping feature will result in a very good sounding system.
Thanks Jay
Cheers & Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays.
"the Magicos sound fuller in every aspect, more refined, clearer, etc" - agreed. But the price difference would definitely be worth it for me.
For me, if ya put the PS ribbon on the Magico, that would be perfect.
100% agree
I tend to agree with this as well, I seemed to like the mid-bass and mirange more from the Magico, but the highest from PR5.
@jaysullivan9545 - The Magico isn’t tuned for a ribbon or any other tweeter. They would have to create another speaker.
Also, the cabinet material will affect how the ribbon tweeter sounds. The Magico is aluminum? The PS Audio is not
@Eric-z6f So be it.
@@Eric-z6f We get that. If Magico's goal is to be like Focal and have a sharp sound up top and that's their market niche, then ok. I think there's a lot of comments out there saying they'd benefit from smoothing things out (where's there's smoke there's fire). Maybe they have to redesign the cabinet, maybe not, but that's not the customer's problem. If they want more sales, maybe that's something they should consider. But who knows, maybe those that like zippy tweeters are in the majority.
Great presentation. Would it be a good idea if there was a 3rd pair of speakers which cost somewhere between these 2 speakers? Like maybe a dynaudio HS? Btw, i prefer the Magico in this demo, but way above affordable for me. If i can afford this, i would have to ask myself if the huge price difference is well worth its higher audio quality.
These both are awesome sounding speakers. The Magico may have just a slight more in the low end but I'm blown away by the open soundstage of the PS Audio's Wow! Nice comparison YO!
Cool!
The law of diminishing returns. Yea, the A1 is king, but the prince is nipping at his heels a helluva lot cheaper!!
How are you recording this? Are you using Neumann Binoral microphone system or your video camera microphone?
One thing I'm not hearing is a roughly $6k difference in sound quality. Gotta say FR5's for the best bang for the buck win.
Magico no smearing and more focused to my ears. Very pleasing the Magico.
The Magicos have a more continuous sound to me, with the vocals more organic and the instruments more solid and sweeter. The male vocal in song 1 was more "buzzy" on the PSA. Listening here on a Chord DAVE + (Original) KEF LS50s. I'll give my headphones a try later. This was my first impression before reading any comments here. Never heard either of these speakers before. (Same impression with female singer in Tainted Love.)
dark in color speaker mo bettah
There’s a real difference.
At first listen rapid back and forth I thought the magicos then after listening to each track full length and not rapidly switching, I prefer the FR5’s
It’s the tweeter in the FR5 that swayed me. Very clean and revealing.
I think I had a similar experience. At first was drawn to the more well defined base response and midrange of the magicos, but then had the impression that the FR5’s are more open, and dare I say more lively. On the last track, the FR5’s to me, made the vocalist sound more alive, whereas she sounded sleepy with the A1’s.
@@jeffandich3894
Agreed!
I think there is definitely a common crossover market for both of them to compete in. Both would be targets for 2nd or 3rd systems in smaller rooms, desks, .... People with the big bucks might not care about the price difference, but here some prefer the FR5 regardless as well.
Listening to these through my speakers I thought the ps audios sounded better. I don’t know these songs however guessing they are free to play so maybe a link to those would help also so we can try them on our own system with out TH-cam. From the information I have though the ps audios seem like a great deal.
I can make my Proac 1SC sound just like the PSA then the Magico by switching the PrimaLuna from ultralinear to triode mode.
So I can’t say which one is more colored because you’re using the same preamp/amp.
The PSA is either too bright and lean, or the Magico too rolled off and warm.
My Proacs are still the best deal. Perfect with tubes.
We want to know what Big Jay thinks. My guess is that PS Audio gets too close to Magico and Jay doesn’t want to offend them.
What I think doesn’t matter 😅 I will continue with big speakers
YT likely doesnt do justice to your set up. But even this Magico sounds a bit better. And ofcourse its a Magico house sound. Cheers and thanks for the effort.
Great work! Brilliant comparison, sounds to me the PS audio has better texture and layers, natural top end also. Magico seemed a bit more resonant in the room than the PS. Well done Jay👍🏽
Glad you enjoyed it!
I really like your way of doing this Jay! My first impression is that I prefer the Magico, but the more I’m listening, the FR5 are really impressive. I would probably go for the Magico, as they are more to my taste (warmer), but for the price, the FR5 are great!!! More of this content - thanks - this is fun😊
I kept going back and forth on each song and thru headphones, there is very little differences. If it's the same in person, I would go with the PS audio at a much lower price point. Thanks for the video Jay.
Interesting
the magico is more laid back and natural for sure, the PS audio is more exaggerated. total preference of listener. thanks again my man!
I thought just the opposite.
I admit my complete lack of expertise here but these speakers sound incrediblely close to each other. If I did have $10,000 to spend, I would buy the FR5s and a high quality amplifier. Thank you Jay for this!
Magico with tube electronics , ps audio with brighter sounding solid state electronics .
Thanks for your comparisons. To me FR5 is more airy and sparkling at the high frequencies which I like.
Very interesting experiment. Something to learn every day from TH-cam. PS Audio FR5's are seriously VFM
If the comparison is stand mount to stand mount, just based on performance, not considering price, I'd pick the Magicos. They have a fuller, more effortless, and detailed sound.
However, what's really the question? Is it "I have $4k to spend. Is the FR5 a speaker that will get me close enough to the performance of something like the A1 that I won't be disappointed?" or is it "I have $10k to spend. Would I prefer a Magico or PS Audio speaker?"
In my opinion, the answer to the first question is a resounding YES!
To answer the second question, the comparison would have to be between the Magico A1 and the PS Audio FR10. Yes, one is a stand mount and the other is a floor stander but they cost the same and take up the same amount of floor space
hey man
great video
i subscribed !
Thanks for the sub!
Both sounded well. PS is clearer, open and compact sound. Magico has more bass; voice and high’s are a bit flat. I will go with FR5.
magico
instant chills - massive vibes
dang … was really hoping i would love the more affordable one 😂
PS Audio sounded airier with bigger soundstage. Magico has a slight thicker mid range. Depending on music genre & taste but for the huge price differences my preference goes to PS Audio.
I'm listening to this video on Presonus Sceptre S6 near-field studio monitors and I had to turn the volume up to higher than normal to get the full experience. In my set up to me, the Magico's nudge out the PS Audio FR5s, but then, on other material, the PS Audio's take the lead. Tough choice. One thing does come through, those two are amazing bookshelves. I've never heard bookshelves deliver such full-bodied sound like that. Bravo Jay! Excellent comparison. I can see why hours of listening might be required to hail a winner.
First of all, thank you Jay for taking the time to to do this video comparison! Secondly, I like your approach and methodology to do the best you can within the limitations of TH-cam to bring this to your viewers. I listened using my 10th gen iPad with a Hidiz S9 Pro dongle DAC using the 2.5 balanced output to my KZ PR1 Pro planar magnetic IEMs through a Linsoul Tripowin Petrichor cable. To my ears they both sounded fantastic hooked to your impressive system. The FR5’s to me sounded more clinical and crisp compared to the Magico A1’s. The A1’s sounded warmer and more relaxed with more natural texture to the instruments. In this particular comparison I prefer ever so slightly the sound of the Magico’s. One thought I did have is how would the FR5’s sounded hooked up to a warmer tube amp? Thanks again Jay and keep doing what you are doing!
Cool thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Nice Comparison! Thanks 🙏🏻
My pleasure!
I use a Scarlett 2i2 gen 4 and a pair of Sennheiser HD-800 headphones to evaluate. Big sonic differences even from this flawed way of comparing speakers.
I prefer the clarity, detail, texture, plucks on the guitar and bass, finger snaps, Piano attacks start and stop into silence on the Magico’s. All the PS Audio speakers that I have heard ( usually at AXPONA ) always have had this soft polite flavor. The FR5 also have a slight boxy sound to me. It makes me want to go hear them for a real and comparison. But the A1 has a major jump on them. As they should. $ Thanks for the fun !
Listening through EarPod Pros, the Magico seems to sound more hifi on Tainted Love, but maybe less organic. The hall sound/reverb seems more present on the PS in general.
My gut is the FR5 would be more fun, especially with rock.
I am immediately drawn to the treble in the FR5 (excellent btw) while the Magico draws me in the the whole piece. My experience suggests that audiophiles would prefer the FR5 while musicians would vote for the Magico. I am a musician so I vote Magico, however, for the price, the FR5 would attract my money first.
I like the smoothness of the FR5.....I could listen to the FR5 for hours with no fatigue. also, price is good for the quality of sound. Thanks Jay for the comparison.
Thanks for the feedback!
When I purchased my first decent amplifiers the dealer gave me Krell and audio research for a week at home and I found that the extended listening of both changed my perception and I have had many Audio Research amplifiers since. In the same way the immediacy and forward nature of the Magicos although seductive may be tiring over an extended period. Whatever, the FR5 are stunning for the price and are the Magicos are not 3 times better. Very interesting review Jay I’m sure many can put together great affordable systems with either speaker.
I don't think that there is a reasonable expectation that the Magico would sound two or three times better. When you get into systems like this, prices changes only bring incremental changes. So, it would only be reasonable, based on price, for the Magico speakers to sound marginally better and then you have to determine if you're willing to pay extra for that margin. In other words, is there enough value in the marginal improvement for you personally. If there isn't enough value-add or, if you like the PR5 speakers better, then you're going to save some money.
@@rangerrecon My sentiments entirely. I am thinking of getting a small two way and these are two contenders, but I would want to get an extended demo to see if I could live with either. Sadly for me marginal improvements aren't quantifiable in monetary terms and that is why my system has cost a lot more than it needs to. If I had the money I would no doubt spend the same as Jay.
Amazing comprising video!!
Thanks a lot!
Wow, that was interesting! On first listen the Magico was hands down the winner for clarity and the ability to hear every single note (especially plucked guitar and bass). I found this surprising because when I’ve heard Magico’s at audio shows, I didn’t like their “top-down” analytic sound. But, the more I listened (and watched on our large projector screen-perhaps mimicking the room), the Magico seemed in front of the speaker and the PS Audio behind the speaker. I think if I were there I’d lean towards the PS Audio for that reason, but I’d have to listen in person to really decide a “winner”. It was surprising how completely different their sounds were
Not sure if I'm hearing the truth without being in the room, but there is no comparison...magico sounds magical
FR5 for me, soundstage and mid range seems better to my hears. Who is the singer of the 3rd song by the way?
I think it's Karen Souza
@trevormeyer5592 thanks!
The Magico A1 absolutely got a cleaner sound but the FR5 has a more musical bass and is just more fun. That and the huge price difference makes this an easy choice.
i don`t think that we can feel the diferences through youtube. It´s mandatory to be there!
For me, the Magico easily wins with the first 2 songs for being smoother and revealing more detail. However, on the third song I felt the female vocals sounded more natural and less diffuse on the FR5, although unfortunately cymbals also sounded significantly louder on the FR5. If there's a speaker that's about half way between these two, that may be exactly what I'm looking for.
One speaker definitely sounded more articulate, resolving and holographic than the other. One speaker sounded more real, live than the other which exuded that polite hi-fi sound that we’re all accustomed to. “M” for magnificent! Thanks Jay!
Well said!
You can clearly hear that the PSaudio generalizes the sound and sends it much wider, giving a lower quality contact to the sound being more glib. But probably still good value and warmth.
While the Magico is a lot more sorted in sound, deep, and specific and coupled and handles traffical passages a hell of a lot better. Making the sound a lot more narrow/inward/deep, instead of mostly just ahead of the speaker and all over the place like PSaudio. So yes I think that both are super for the price.
so tough to call. have to love the PS Audio hang in there. In person, it might be different. another banger Jay.
Thanks for watching!
Magico speakers sound a bit more open and fuller but for the price point, I’d go with the PS Audio speakers
What a great video, Jay....💪
Thank you for taking the time to put this together! I feel like the PS Audio has more dynamics when it comes to instruments. It's not as forward as the Magico, but it has great attack. I feel like it's a little more realistic in its presentation.
The Magico can fill the room more (very spacious). The Magico is very airy and soft on the ears across the board but with great detail! I love a speaker with soft highs, and my ears are very sensitive to high frequencies. It's a very welcoming speaking!
It is a very close call, that is the most interesting part of the video, i would go with the ps audio though
I think the value proposition on the PS Audio is undeniable.
Both are fantastic speakers! A1 for me if they are in the same price range.
Many thanks for the excellent video.
In my listening setup I can hear that the Magico are better in terms of delivering details and more "realistic" in terms of ilusion of a live performance but there seem to be (might be my listening environment) an isssue with voicing. The FR5 are more balanced, the Magico somehow disjointed.
If funds issue go with FR5 otherwise magico
Both speakers have pros & cons
Wonderful reviews, jay going great keep going on 👍
Thanks a ton
Oh wow, I listened this with my studio monitoring headphones and Magico is clear winner. It's much sparklier, tweeter seems brighter and bass seems faster, acoustic guitar sounds much real life with Magico's. It's like there's a thick veil in front of PS Audio's. And I tried to compare the two by jumping back and forth in video. Really interesting video!
Les ps audio sont d’excellentes enceintes mais ne peuvent pas rivaliser avec les magico . Victoire de magico plus de details, de précision et de scènes sonore
. Bravo Jay !!!!!!
A1 BLOWS PS AWAY .............as it should...Jay we luv the content and your Awsome Channel ...Thank you...
Appreciate the feedback!
Great comparison Jay. Honestly I was not expecting the gap between these to be as large as it was. The FR5s were nice, but they did not have nearly the same level of clarity, and this was evident throughout the entire frequency range. The timbre of the magicos was superior as well. Vocals on the first track were much cleaner on the Magicos, but on the tainted love track, they went from good to ‘magical’.
Thanks, glad you enjoyed it!
@@jaysaudiolabso after reading some other comments I went and listened on my home system instead of my headphones. I still find that the magico excels in the clarity and vocal timbre however there is something about the FR5s body and full presentation that was overall more enjoyable to listen to. Apparently what you listen on matters:) your work is appreciated!
No comparison, the Magico is better at everything, as it should be!
Ps audio hands down winner to my ears anyway good job jay 👏 👍
Awesome! Thank you!
Those magico's are quite magical
As someone with no prior preference or bias towards either speaker, the Magico does sound better to me. Having said that, the law of diminishing returns is on display here and begs the question whether the Magico is worth the additional 2x+ cost? I guess it really comes down to budget. I'd love to hear Magico VS ProAc
while you are correct there is a bigger picture from my perspective.There is no way i would pay 3500 US for a set of speakers that aren't good enough for me.I could buy something else much cheaper if I am not going to be fully engaged by said speaker! On the other hand going with the A1 from Magico I would feel that all that extra money is well spent money........In other words for me I will NOT feel Like the money spent gives me Any dissatisfaction un like PS Audio would!
@ yes of course. I’m just talking between these two speakers only. Both of which, are not something I would personally shortlist.
PS audio MUCH better because the Magico strips off the trailing edge of harmonics and sounds more flat !
PS FR5 & Quad Revela 2?) PS FR5 & Amphion Argon 3S??)
Great Job,All in all I would take the FR5's..maybe get 2 pairs and still have money left.Who is doing the cover of Six Strings Down?Keep up the great work
Any info on that Six Strings Down cover?Thanks Jay
Jay thank you for your task, very nice video. I find FR5 has a boxy sound, I have the impression that sound is more compressed, Magico are sweeter and delicate. But price difference is so huge!😢
Thanks for sharing
Jay, I am Very Happy for you to see so many Likes in One Presentation! Spectacular Head to Head from a Value Perspective!💯💪
Thanks for watching!
Great job Jay. Glad to know that you continue to use a track i recommended two years ago, Duende, in your reference list. As for this comparison, it seems that the FR5 has wider and deeper soundstage, but the Magico has a richer midrange and more transparency in the treble range. I'm very familiar with these tracks, I would probably choose the FR5 as my preferred among these two, mainly for the quality of sound at excellent cost value. However, a better small standmount in this category would be KEF Reference one. It has a wider and taller soundstage, much better instrument imaging separation, equal in transparency, The shortcoming of the KEF reference is the midrange tends to be somewhat lean, as such a subwoofer is needed to add richness to the mids. Thanks always Jay.
Jay, please post the hardware in the recording chain, beginning with the mics.
I will consider it for future videos!
through my AUDEZE'S LCD X ....yes the MAGICO is more analytical , more precise ... the PS audio more soft , and the velvet sound of this ribbon tweeter is very glad... BOTH AWESOME .
Interesting observation, thanks for sharing!
Magico, better clarity, separation, and soundstage. Less muddy low end.
FR5 all the way. Not even close in terms of tone or the overall presentation. RAALS can sounds can sounds harsh, until you have few hours on them. How many hours do you have on each pair? Thanks for the demo. Which do you prefer?
Fair enough!
FR5’s tweeter is too hard to beat. Both would need subs so the FR5 wins
Thanks Jay. I think overall the Magico is best, but they should be at nearly 3 times the cost of FR 5. But anyway, I love my FR 5, great speakers. 👍
Fair enough!
Both are great 👍
I see that you have your speakers out in the room. I moved a lot, so many different rooms and I've always got the best sound by moving my speakers way far from the back wall, I find that the bass I get from the back wall also contributes to muffling the sound.
Let’s be clear. Very few will put either speaker in a room as acoustically well treated plus even fewer will have them connected to this level of electronics. The bottom line for me is they are both excellent speakers and the FR5 a superb value. Each have a special presentation that someone could get many hours of bliss listening to them. Well done Jay.
I agree, the FR5 is a fantastic value!
All things considered the PS Audio F5's
Thanks Jay for delivering on this. The Magico is the clear winner in every sound aspect.
I was impressed with the difference in vocal clarity in song 1, the bass in song 2, and the airy highs in song 3.
I would by the Magico if I could afford not only the speakers but the right matching equipment
Very informative video. Both are really good and have their strengths but I don't think I'm hearing $6000 worth of better sound with the Magicos. The bass on the PS5 sounded a bit muddy to me so if I got them and a pair of subwoofers, I would be very satisfied and it would still be a few thousand cheaper than the Magicos. Thanks for the comparisons, Jay.
They're not my kind of speakers , but I would take the PS Audio anyday , I think the passive radiator is making the difference and you get to save $6000.
I would say that in first song PS audio was eaten by far Magico was clear winner in all field's, but in 2nd song PS strike again considering price differences it was close, Magico had more tight bass, but in 3rd song completely drawn, and there i would go towards PS audio for souch nice and good performance price ratio as my choice. Overall point is proven not always more costing is better. Nice work
Well done Jay. Great recording and music choices. You’ve put in a lot of time and effort to bring this comparison to us. They both sound great. The Magicos sound warmer to me but the FR5s have better separation of instruments. The bass response of both is impressive. I prefer the FR5s I think. I’d love to hear the same comparison with a sub but I think you’ve done enough 👍
Lets say that both of these speakers are fabulous but there is definitely a clear winner. The Magico's, they are more clear better soundstage and the detail is incredible, but they should be for that price. If I had only heard the FR5's, I would be more than satisfied but when you compare the two there is a clear winner and that's not the FR5's.. I don't claim to be an audiophile by any means but I think I can tell good sound when I hear it. I think its time to start saving up. Good comparison. Thank you.