I like the way you review stuff, the biggest thing that sets you apart for me is the way you show and talk about the 'build' of the speakers, showing the inside and out, I love it.
@@2ChannelListening Don't have to call me sir at all, I should have called you sir in the first place. Anyway, to me you seem to be trying to be as honest and transparant as possible in what your are trying to bring, which I appreciate a lot. Of course opinions are opinions and facts are facts. Great Segway into audiosciencereview. You both share your opinions and your facts, I like both view points on things. Please keep going!
Currently saving up for the Sierra LX bookshelves. From the klippel data they are perfectly flat with a slight bump in the presence region, which is how I always EQ my speakers to reproduce. I also love the SEAS drivers in my old Jamo Concert towers, so I know that those drivers will have some serious power handling. 1500$ seems like an absolute steal if they play as good as the spec sheet indicates.
Great review - I bought a used pair of these from someone local here in Phoenix - Using in my office system & loving them. The bass articulation and midrange is magic w/ my Heaven11 Billie amplifier.
Thanks for sharing, that little integrated sure is making some waves. The lack of remote is what's stopping me from owning one. Does sound like a nice match for an office space. Thanks Jason.
@@2ChannelListening Actually I have a remote for mine - He started to include them! The best thing is that you have the tube "warmth" but doesn't get nearly as hot as a tube output amplifier.
Great video! I just picked up a pair of Sierra 2s used. They are great in all the ways you mentioned. It’s hard to imagine anyone being unhappy with these. They do so many things well and the value is really good.
I own the new duos , using as left and rights ( moved tweeter orientation ) , among older ascends . Great quick service and great speakers ! Thanks for your detailed reviews .
I went through the same progression - Sierra 1, 2, and now 2EX. One of the most impressive qualities of the 2EX, IMHO, is that it scales incredibly well with higher-end components upstream. I am using >$10k worth of components to drive these speakers and I am utterly astounded at how well they perform - WAY beyond their price point.
Thanks for that input VN. I can also qualify the opposite this morning. I purposely bought the latest base level Peachtree integrated and I am just pleased as can be with the results on the S2's. This is one of the best 2nd hand combo's I've ever come up with at $1,500 all in (sans cables though). Cheers and thanks for the sub.
PSA, Be extremely careful with that ribbon tweeter. Also, powerful magnet, don't get too close with dangling ferrous jewelry! If you or your wife is familiar with gold leaf gilding, I liken the ribbon element to a sheet of gold leaf! Very easy to dislocate and although you can purchase replacement ribbons from madisound etc., it's very difficult to replace and get it right. 10 - 1 you'll end up sending the entire ribbon tweeter unit in for service and that'll be a bummer to do.
Thanks M Pix, good advice for anyone. I was very gentle when removing the housing on these units. My ring is teflon...I ruined too many rings long ago. However, to my knowledge, gold and silver are non-ferrous. Cheers, thanks for watching!
Put it close to the wall if there's a drop in bass and a small bookshelf like that should be close to the wall to enhance the lower frequencies maybe some light stuffing of the port would be advisable or adjust the port trim it. a cushion against the wall might be advisable behind the port to prevent it's been boomy
I AGREE with you wholeheartedly about audiosciencereview! Measurements dont always equate to great sound! I have listened to many of the dacs Amire claim to measure great, and they sound TERRIBLE! GREAT REVIEW!
I'm looking for a high quality bookshelf speakers to use as my LCR in a home theater. They'll be sitting on stands under the screen and the maximum height of the speakers cannot be more than 15". They will be used 70% for movies and 30% for music. My room is around 14' x 20' and is an open concept living area, but the only space I'm wanting to fill with sound is the main seating area. Each of the LCR speakers will be driven by Outlaw 200 watt monoblocks. I'll be using two RSL subwoofers and crossing over wherever is most appropriate for the speakers I'm using. Most importantly, I'd like viewers who are sitting up to 45 degrees off axis from the center speaker to still hear the dialogue clearly. I understand it won't be as crystal clear as directly on axis. In your opinion, do these speakers fit the bill? If not, do you have a recommendation? Thanks a lot!
@@olegyamleq7796 I place them on the top plate in the area that has extra ring to it or some kind of vibration. I made a short vid. quickly showing of the Musical Paradise Tube preamp with two of these door stoppers because the top plate is very thin and the unit has vibration noise toward the back inputs.
I'm not usually big on these subjective reviews, but I gotta admit you have some pretty good observations and in line with my experience with these speakers. I was so impressed with them I skipped over the ex upgrade kit and ponied up for the ribbon towers and Horizon center channel. Amazing speakers.
I appreciate that! I think a lot of manufacturers are missing the boat on using Bamboo cabinets, the high quality drivers will perform better. Thank you for your post.
You bet, and yes, bamboo is denser, lighter, water resistant and definitely more inert. Dave did some testing with an accelerometer and that's what sold him on it. From conversations with him and a few others I'm told it's very difficult to work with when it comes to routing, cutting and drilling. I'd guess that has a lot to do with why more manufacturers aren't using it. Great review tho man. I watched your video for the 2EX also. Any plans for a tower review?
@@Pohgrey I would love to review the Towers, yet I have not seen any used ones in the PacNW come available. These video's actually cost me money, I have been operating in the red all year. If I could find items and breakeven with them, that's the sweet spot for guys like me. I can not afford to buy a fresh pair of Sierra Towers and I have not met any owners nearby where I could borrow them for a month. So I wait patiently for a pair I can afford to pop up on Hifi Shark. I went off the ledge buying a new set of Philharmonic BMR's, probably the second most requested speaker after the Maggie LRS. I have a long game in mind. I do appreciate your kind words and watching. Regarding Bamboo being harder to work with; Dave is commendable for making it happen and that's why I love his company. The bigger manufacturers could easily afford the tooling and make adjustment's, its all about that bottom line profit while giving the consumer the illusion their latest computer modeled cabinet is supreme. I tell you, my 1986 ADS L1590's still blow me away. Of course I can be critical of the presentation they lack, I do not like, but compared to mega dollar designs today...I'll save the money and live with minor compromises. Sorry for the soap box! Lol.
@@2ChannelListening oh sure, I appreciate the replies. The BMRs were on my short list also, but I have a large room and sit 15' from my speakers. I wanted something with a little more power handling and spl capabilities so ultimately went with the Sierra ribbon towers. You sound like me on breaking even. I'm always scouring my local (Phoenix, Az and east valley) Craigslist looking for speaker deals. If it's interesting and I think I can at least break even I'll usually buy something and check them out. Right now I have too many speakers and my wife thinks I'm nuts, but hey. I get to check out a bunch of different speakers at home basically for free and love this hobby. It's just plain fun! Speaking of which I found my Sierra 2s in piano gloss black on CL for $650! That was just too good to pass up and ultimately what got me started 9n my journey with Ascend Acoustics. I was pretty blown away with those RAAL tweets.
Very good and informative review (I feel like I've heard the speakers). I've always been keen on Sierra's line and value proposition especially when buying new. I'd be really cool if you could land some Sierra towers along the way. Cheers!
Loved the video, I was thinking about an ascend setup for movies. Since emotiva is always sold out. Any thought for ascend for movies with bookshelves?
It’s always about space and budget. Ascend makes a HT line. If your tight on space but want the punch, they a great line. Aperion audio is also a worthy consideration for dual purpose listening.
Great video content! Video quality of the B footage though is much better than the actual main video! Your flesh tones are a bit bleached out at least on my OLED TV. 😇 Seems like you might just have a little bit too much Lighting on you.
Much appreciated! Yeah, not even my editing software could tame the nasty reflection I was getting from outside. I had my light on the warmest setting, just made it worse. That's why I'm not video guy...ha ha. Maybe I should just change my format for radio...*kidding*
I got Elac Vela 407's because I wanted to experience the AMT tweeter, but I'm not impressed. For example: On a cymbal strike you get the initial sound but it fades out fast and is a bit thin. The 407's are also thin in the midrange. I'm sure all AMT tweeter applications are not the same, hopefully the Ascend is better.
Hey everyone, yes, I already know the lighting was atrocious on this one. I was getting some strange reflective light from the snow outside and lamp interaction. The problem with filming in an apartment is I have to pick my battles with noise interruption. I had a clean 40 minutes and couldn’t retake the video. Notes; 1. I made a couple of verbal errors. (again, rushing). The Sierra line of speakers is the smallest hifi speaker I have consistently tested - the Aperion Audio Intimus 5b were technically the smallest ever size speaker I have bought and tested. 2. I want to clarify that I am not attacking Amir at ASR. I am taking aim at the dismissive nature of subjectivity when listening to how a pair of speakers perform when one has the data in their hands. Yes, the tests are helpful, yes the in room response and reflection tests are very helpful, provided we understand how our own room and furnishings can color the sound. However, to run such tests with such expensive, capable equipment, and not audibly verify the findings, well, you draw your own conclusions - that irks me. I find Amir's new TH-cam channel helpful and have voted several of the video's up. Some of you need to take a deep breath.
Frequency Response charts start at 10:30 Viewpoints on sound and comparison start at 11:50 Sierra 2 Report Card listed at 22:30
@@2ChannelListeningNo problem. To tell you the truth I didn't even notice,. Mostly just listened to the audio. Only looked closer at the video to see what the inner cabinet, mid-bass driver, and crossover looked like.
@2 Channel Listening Good work. I like your videos. One thing I would like you to add is try to describe the sound signature a bit more. What kind of sound can we expect from that speaker? I know there is nothing like hearing the speakers in our own setup but sometimes it helps to have an idea of the type of sound to expect... By the way I almost bought a pair of Ascend Sierra 2-ex last month but I was unsure after some reviewer said that these speakers do not handle well fast and complex music...
All of this is neither here nor there, but the "Japanese guitar" you refer to is a Shamisen (in this case, a Tsugaru Shamisen) and it has 3 strings. Which is weird given the movie being Kubo and the Two Strings (note that I have not seen the movie). A Chinese Erhu has only 2 strings....but that's definitely not what's being played or pictured in the Regina Spektor video. Shamisen are excellent instruments for evaluating speaker sound. Check out the Yoshida Brothers, for example.
Really great review. So comprehensive!...been looking at these. Primary listening for me is acoustic/chamber jazz, some orchestral, but sometimes get into multi-tracked project stuff as well. Looking to replace my totem arrows, one of which seems to have a driver issue. These seem to compare based on what you mentioned. Wondering if you've had any experience with Quad s2's...don't know if these have anywhere a similar sound signature just because of that similar configuration tweeter-wise, but am also looking at those. Thank you for the expert perspective.
Hello John, thank you for your post. Right now, I am living with the latest version, the 2EX and they are another step above the "2's". Really incredible for their size. I'm still breaking them in and have not run an in room bass tones yet, but I can already hear deeper notes versus the 1's and 2's, yet no trade off with masking mids and high's. I have yet to meet a Raal tweeter I didn't like compared to domes, not that there aren't very well executed dome tweeters, they usually reside in much more expensive products though. IMO. I do not have first hand experience with Quad speakers. These are very non-fatiguing speakers with exceptional leading edge detail and great sound stage depth. I was listening to James Horner film scores the other night, and I was very pleased with image depth and space. Not quite Totem Element Fires, but at a third the cost, most of the way there. Absolutely better that how I remember my KEF R300's. 2EX are faster, with better extension.
@@2ChannelListening Appreciate the heads-up about the ex level on the sierras. Might be worth saving a while longer if those take detail, balance, effortlessness, stage to an appreciably higher level 🙏🏼. Look forward to any review on those! 😊
Anyone who depends solely on Audioscience reviews would be hard pressed for a great setup. Nice speaker for a smaller room at mid-levels. Being more of a high sensitivity guy it's a little low for my tastes. Possibly do to the crossover and tweeter network being overly complex for a 2 way. I'm sure that affects dynamics.
Hello Gennaro, I would agree on your first premise, since they seem to chase only equipment with the lowest distortion and highest SNR range...dry dry dry... My ZU Dirty Weekend are 97db sensitive and I can attest that the Sierra 2 gives little up to the ZU. Yes, they do not have the lower registers - yet that's where the 2EX is supposed to amaze, playing as low as 33hz! Believe me, I do get what you are saying though. I just listened to fully updated Klipsch Cornwalls, blasting Partricia Berber's Nardis - the weight and signature of the kickdrum is amazing with those 15" drivers. Not even the 10" ZU's replicate that punch. Thanks for watching!
@@2ChannelListening So if i was moving from a klipsch Forte ii I'd probably be disappointed with the ascend acoustics serra tower? It's a smaller room and I'm wondering what to do. Maybe keep them? I upgraded them to the max, even new custom LMAHL tweeter drivers. Idk. Not sure if I'm a klipsch guy anymore or not. I like the warmth of my old kg4s but want the detail of the Forte. Idk
@@el34glo59 I I understand correctly, your Forte II is modified? From a room pressurization and fullness perspective, yes, you would be disappointed. However, from the mid-range up, I bet the Ribbon equipped Sierra Tower will teach the Forte a thing or two. Its a big trade off, one for the other.
Currently, or of everything I've owned to this point? The ZU Omen Def MKII's with Radian upgrade remains my favorite speaker to this point, closely followed by my Acoustic Research AR9 LS. Both perform with incredible scale.
I've always argued that floor-standers and stand-mounts with stands take up roughly the same space in a room. For arguments sake, would you prefer the Dirty Weekends or the Sierra 2s on stands? How about those KEF 104/2, where are they in the mix? PS- Enjoying the channel...
Your Honour, if I must answer your question as transparently as possible, on pain of death, for me its still my fully loaded ZU DW. The ZU have all the transparency of the S2's, and fills out an additional 5 db (ish) of lower hz.
Hi!!!Thanks again for your review!!Because i want to buy the sierra 2,do you thing that the new sierra 2 ex its so much better than this that worth the 500 $ more?Thank you so much!!!
If you have an existing subwoofer, you would not notice as much of a difference from the standard 2 to the EX. If you do not have a subwoofer to fill in the bottom, I would absolutely recommend the EX. Without a doubt the upgraded Seas driver really does present a fuller range sound vs. the basic 2. Good luck, thanks for watching.
Listening is the final test, but measurements can help you attain a good sound. For the record, Ascend now uses a Klippel to design their speakers . Many people don't treat their room much so you'll get a lot of variation due to your room . You can try-al and error or soup up your anxiety until you buy some random speaker based on a subjective review as well. Imo understanding measurements can help you understand what type of sound you like and find similar speakers. You don't even have to like flat in the end. Dispersion characteristics and maybe compression/multi tone all play a role in the sound too.
I applaud anyone putting together a video, especially showing their own face. With that said, you definitely come off as a science denier. Subjective impressions have some use, but they’re inconsistent and flawed because our memory sucks when it comes to what we hear. Objective understanding is how we push companies to create better products. The work of Toole and Geddes definitely helps determine which measurements matter, how to interpret them, and what a properly designed speaker should look like.
Hello Cujobob. "Science denier"...LOL. Give me one example in any of my video's where I come out and say throw away specifications and frequency response charts. Give me one example where I say they are foolish and or useless? I clearly state they are a starting point and direction to point the consumer, but not the end all be all. You will not find it. Thanks for watching though.
@@2ChannelListening Measurements can tell you with 85-90% accuracy how well someone will prefer the sound of a speaker. It's not just a starting point, it's literally what defines how well a speaker does it's job of accurately reproducing a signal. The standard measurements claimed by most manufacturers are mostly useless because they're stated in such a way that they tell you nothing. You downplayed Amir's work stating that his objective measurements weren't as reliable as your subjective measurements. I'm not saying Amir is always right or that I agree with him on anything, but subjective listening tests have little real value because you can't reliably compare it with the sound of another product because your mind physically cannot recall sound accurately enough for anything but very short bursts (which isn't long enough to do a real comparison). It's a physical limitation of the human mind.
Good morning Cujobob. So, if our brains are so screwed up, then how do we determine what we "should and shouldn't hear" based on all those fancy graphs and charts? (without training mind you). Do layman know what they are looking at when they comb through all that data, do you think they do? Honestly, I've gone through ASR's forums. Those guys are rude and nasty toward specific manufacturers that many of us adore. Klipsch and ZU tend to get dog piled on and I see the comments, oh look at that frequency curve, blah blah blah. I don't bash a speaker I've never sat down for a critical listen with - the guys at ASR cannot make that same claim. That's not science, that's mob mentality posturing. Let me ask you something. Do you think Amir's write up on the Sierra 2's was fair to the manufacturer? Not investigating the results, doing the follow up? I know I get taken to town for far less on TH-cam.
@@2ChannelListening When I first came across ASR's forum, I was immediately put off because of their Schiit bashing and what seemed like promotion of Topping products (which I'd read many mentions of QC issues with at the time). I am an objective person and well read when it comes to things acoustic and psycoacoustic related. In fact, my favorite speakers were purchased at the home of Dr. Earl Geddes. Upon further reading on the forum and then further into the subject matter, I came to appreciate what it is they do there. You can absolutely tell the engineering quality and more importantly, the sound quality of a product based on the way it measures. For speakers, we don't just hear direct sound from the speaker because we aren't listening to them in an open field. Room issues are always a factor and there are various ways to deal with them. As Dr. Geddes' has said, you shouldn't try to solve a three dimensional problem in a two dimensional space (EQ) for those issues and they should be corrected at the speaker level. The polar response will tell you what you can expect coming off of the side walls, floor, and ceiling. If you get the best technical speaker, you can EQ to your tastes afterwards if desired...but you shouldn't purchase a speaker that is designed less effectively because it has an EQ of sorts built in, that will color everything through it. As for electronic components, measurements tell you very clearly how well a DAC or amp does it's job. The hidden factor here is what type of distortion each product has (the distortion profile). When people talk of warmth and added soundstage...that is additional distortion adding in something that was never there. There's nothing wrong with enjoying that, but it does mean that you're not getting the best technical performance. What I have done recently is put together a system of the Topping Pre90 preamplifier with a Purifi based power amplifier. Gobs of power and complete transparency for not a ton of money. Now, I do like tubes in my system at times, so to add that in, I would simply put a tubed preamplifier in the chain. I have much more expensive gear that can't touch the level of fidelity I'm currently getting, though. As to your specific questions, reviewers should try to inform the average people so they can make better informed decisions. This is good for everyone. Informed buyers push engineering to new heights. Is ASR always fair to companies? I think the data is fair, but sometimes the comments can be a little too subjective for an objective analysis. It gives mixed signals. I'll have to re-read the Sierra 2 review as it's been some time and answer more specifically at a later date. Every forum has its issues, we shouldn't take any as gospel. That doesn't mean objective data isn't insanely useful/important.
Everything you said in this third post, I am totally on board with. You stated your claim from a more valuable perspective, your experience and how you arrived to it, this I can respect. I am curious about your music selection when playing your "top performing" i.e. best spec equipment. Do you find that you limit what artists and recordings are pleasant? The challenge with the most revealing or technically detailed products are hampered by signal quality (many times anyway). The recording itself. Have you run into issues with the genres you play? Personally, I will not give up music I love if it comes at the expense of acquiring equipment with the highest SNR and lowest distortion numbers. I have found this to be a double edged sword with some products. I appreciate this last post of yours a great deal, its more conversational and less defending of the ASR forum mob. And like many times, I have to say I am not against using specs to figure out what will perform best. I am against using only specs to "dismiss" brands and trial. I will check out the Topping Pre90, thanks.
I’ve had mine for about 4 years, and still love them. The only pair that I’d like to try that “might” be an upgrade are the Dynaudio Special 40’s.
Don't overlook the Philharmonic BMR. Thanks for watching.
Outstanding review. Superb job defining the differences between the Sierra models! Thanks for posting!
Thank you very much!
I like the way you review stuff, the biggest thing that sets you apart for me is the way you show and talk about the 'build' of the speakers, showing the inside and out, I love it.
Thank you sir. I like showing what's inside, everyone should know what they are buying into.
@@2ChannelListening Don't have to call me sir at all, I should have called you sir in the first place. Anyway, to me you seem to be trying to be as honest and transparant as possible in what your are trying to bring, which I appreciate a lot. Of course opinions are opinions and facts are facts. Great Segway into audiosciencereview. You both share your opinions and your facts, I like both view points on things.
Please keep going!
OMGosh. Thanks for pointing out some of the inconsistencies ASR subjects it's viewers to. About time.
Absolutely, thank you for watching.
Currently saving up for the Sierra LX bookshelves. From the klippel data they are perfectly flat with a slight bump in the presence region, which is how I always EQ my speakers to reproduce. I also love the SEAS drivers in my old Jamo Concert towers, so I know that those drivers will have some serious power handling. 1500$ seems like an absolute steal if they play as good as the spec sheet indicates.
You should look at Ryan R610 if you want to listen to a spec sheet. Ryan R610 take Sierra LX to another level. Better cabinet and crossover.
Great review - I bought a used pair of these from someone local here in Phoenix - Using in my office system & loving them. The bass articulation and midrange is magic w/ my Heaven11 Billie amplifier.
Thanks for sharing, that little integrated sure is making some waves. The lack of remote is what's stopping me from owning one. Does sound like a nice match for an office space. Thanks Jason.
@@2ChannelListening Actually I have a remote for mine - He started to include them! The best thing is that you have the tube "warmth" but doesn't get nearly as hot as a tube output amplifier.
@@jasonbernstein3642 I did not know that, you just sold me! Thanks for letting me know.
Great video! I just picked up a pair of Sierra 2s used. They are great in all the ways you mentioned. It’s hard to imagine anyone being unhappy with these. They do so many things well and the value is really good.
Glad you like them, I agree. Thank you for watching Chris.
I own the new duos , using as left and rights ( moved tweeter orientation ) , among older ascends . Great quick service and great speakers ! Thanks for your detailed reviews .
Thanks for sharing Jack. I appreciate the kind words. Hifi needs more companies like Ascend Acoustics for sure.
I went through the same progression - Sierra 1, 2, and now 2EX. One of the most impressive qualities of the 2EX, IMHO, is that it scales incredibly well with higher-end components upstream. I am using >$10k worth of components to drive these speakers and I am utterly astounded at how well they perform - WAY beyond their price point.
Thanks for that input VN. I can also qualify the opposite this morning. I purposely bought the latest base level Peachtree integrated and I am just pleased as can be with the results on the S2's. This is one of the best 2nd hand combo's I've ever come up with at $1,500 all in (sans cables though). Cheers and thanks for the sub.
Looking at their site, it appears they're using a different mid-base driver in that model. Looks like a great speaker for the $.
Yes, Prestige I believe, it’s been awhile since I looked.
PSA, Be extremely careful with that ribbon tweeter. Also, powerful magnet, don't get too close with dangling ferrous jewelry! If you or your wife is familiar with gold leaf gilding, I liken the ribbon element to a sheet of gold leaf! Very easy to dislocate and although you can purchase replacement ribbons from madisound etc., it's very difficult to replace and get it right. 10 - 1 you'll end up sending the entire ribbon tweeter unit in for service and that'll be a bummer to do.
Thanks M Pix, good advice for anyone. I was very gentle when removing the housing on these units. My ring is teflon...I ruined too many rings long ago. However, to my knowledge, gold and silver are non-ferrous. Cheers, thanks for watching!
Put it close to the wall if there's a drop in bass and a small bookshelf like that should be close to the wall to enhance the lower frequencies maybe some light stuffing of the port would be advisable or adjust the port trim it. a cushion against the wall might be advisable behind the port to prevent it's been boomy
Thanks John. I do move my stands around, looking for the best reinforcement. I appreciate your post.
Great video man. What amazing looking drivers.can't wait to hear your thoughts on the new speaker that's coming those are really cool.
Thank you for watching Trey, absolutely.
I AGREE with you wholeheartedly about audiosciencereview! Measurements dont always equate to great sound! I have listened to many of the dacs Amire claim to measure great, and they sound TERRIBLE! GREAT REVIEW!
Thanks J Tay
They're legit insufferable over there
I'm looking for a high quality bookshelf speakers to use as my LCR in a home theater. They'll be sitting on stands under the screen and the maximum height of the speakers cannot be more than 15". They will be used 70% for movies and 30% for music. My room is around 14' x 20' and is an open concept living area, but the only space I'm wanting to fill with sound is the main seating area. Each of the LCR speakers will be driven by Outlaw 200 watt monoblocks. I'll be using two RSL subwoofers and crossing over wherever is most appropriate for the speakers I'm using. Most importantly, I'd like viewers who are sitting up to 45 degrees off axis from the center speaker to still hear the dialogue clearly. I understand it won't be as crystal clear as directly on axis. In your opinion, do these speakers fit the bill? If not, do you have a recommendation? Thanks a lot!
Probably the Sierra LX would suit, not sure the ribbon can do 45⁰ vertical; you'd have to angle the speakers
Just stumbled on this channel. Great job!!!!!!!!!!!! I will check out more of your videos!!! What is the door stopper for? Thanks
Welcome! The door stoppers are cheap damping pads, especially for when I have tube gear.
@@2ChannelListening OK, cool thanks. Where do you put them?
@@olegyamleq7796 I place them on the top plate in the area that has extra ring to it or some kind of vibration. I made a short vid. quickly showing of the Musical Paradise Tube preamp with two of these door stoppers because the top plate is very thin and the unit has vibration noise toward the back inputs.
@@2ChannelListening OK, thanks, directly on top of the unit. Thanks. Have a great week!!! 🙂
I'm not usually big on these subjective reviews, but I gotta admit you have some pretty good observations and in line with my experience with these speakers. I was so impressed with them I skipped over the ex upgrade kit and ponied up for the ribbon towers and Horizon center channel. Amazing speakers.
I appreciate that! I think a lot of manufacturers are missing the boat on using Bamboo cabinets, the high quality drivers will perform better. Thank you for your post.
You bet, and yes, bamboo is denser, lighter, water resistant and definitely more inert. Dave did some testing with an accelerometer and that's what sold him on it. From conversations with him and a few others I'm told it's very difficult to work with when it comes to routing, cutting and drilling. I'd guess that has a lot to do with why more manufacturers aren't using it.
Great review tho man. I watched your video for the 2EX also. Any plans for a tower review?
@@Pohgrey I would love to review the Towers, yet I have not seen any used ones in the PacNW come available. These video's actually cost me money, I have been operating in the red all year. If I could find items and breakeven with them, that's the sweet spot for guys like me. I can not afford to buy a fresh pair of Sierra Towers and I have not met any owners nearby where I could borrow them for a month. So I wait patiently for a pair I can afford to pop up on Hifi Shark. I went off the ledge buying a new set of Philharmonic BMR's, probably the second most requested speaker after the Maggie LRS.
I have a long game in mind. I do appreciate your kind words and watching.
Regarding Bamboo being harder to work with; Dave is commendable for making it happen and that's why I love his company. The bigger manufacturers could easily afford the tooling and make adjustment's, its all about that bottom line profit while giving the consumer the illusion their latest computer modeled cabinet is supreme. I tell you, my 1986 ADS L1590's still blow me away. Of course I can be critical of the presentation they lack, I do not like, but compared to mega dollar designs today...I'll save the money and live with minor compromises. Sorry for the soap box! Lol.
@@2ChannelListening oh sure, I appreciate the replies. The BMRs were on my short list also, but I have a large room and sit 15' from my speakers. I wanted something with a little more power handling and spl capabilities so ultimately went with the Sierra ribbon towers.
You sound like me on breaking even. I'm always scouring my local (Phoenix, Az and east valley) Craigslist looking for speaker deals. If it's interesting and I think I can at least break even I'll usually buy something and check them out. Right now I have too many speakers and my wife thinks I'm nuts, but hey. I get to check out a bunch of different speakers at home basically for free and love this hobby. It's just plain fun!
Speaking of which I found my Sierra 2s in piano gloss black on CL for $650! That was just too good to pass up and ultimately what got me started 9n my journey with Ascend Acoustics. I was pretty blown away with those RAAL tweets.
Doing great job bro... I regularly watch ur video .. u have great knowledge 👌
Thank you so much 😀
Very good and informative review (I feel like I've heard the speakers). I've always been keen on Sierra's line and value proposition especially when buying new. I'd be really cool if you could land some Sierra towers along the way. Cheers!
Thanks for watching! Yep, the towers are on the docket when I'm in my new place.
Loved the video, I was thinking about an ascend setup for movies. Since emotiva is always sold out. Any thought for ascend for movies with bookshelves?
It’s always about space and budget. Ascend makes a HT line. If your tight on space but want the punch, they a great line. Aperion audio is also a worthy consideration for dual purpose listening.
Great video content! Video quality of the B footage though is much better than the actual main video! Your flesh tones are a bit bleached out at least on my OLED TV. 😇 Seems like you might just have a little bit too much Lighting on you.
Much appreciated! Yeah, not even my editing software could tame the nasty reflection I was getting from outside. I had my light on the warmest setting, just made it worse. That's why I'm not video guy...ha ha. Maybe I should just change my format for radio...*kidding*
@@2ChannelListening
It's all good!
I got Elac Vela 407's because I wanted to experience the AMT tweeter, but I'm not impressed. For example: On a cymbal strike you get the initial sound but it fades out fast and is a bit thin. The 407's are also thin in the midrange. I'm sure all AMT tweeter applications are not the same, hopefully the Ascend is better.
I have not yet heard an AMT tweeter, so I cannot comment on your experience. I have not noticed any issues in the decay with the Raal. Thanks.
Just in case anyone doesn't know; the Ascend speakers use a ribbon tweeter.
Not the same thing as AMT
you should really try the Quad S2s. thanks for the video.
Yeah, I think the Z1 would be a fairer fight though. Especially against the 2EX's lower bass output.
Hey everyone, yes, I already know the lighting was atrocious on this one. I was getting some strange reflective light from the snow outside and lamp interaction. The problem with filming in an apartment is I have to pick my battles with noise interruption. I had a clean 40 minutes and couldn’t retake the video.
Notes;
1. I made a couple of verbal errors. (again, rushing). The Sierra line of speakers is the smallest hifi speaker I have consistently tested - the Aperion Audio Intimus 5b were technically the smallest ever size speaker I have bought and tested.
2. I want to clarify that I am not attacking Amir at ASR. I am taking aim at the dismissive nature of subjectivity when listening to how a pair of speakers perform when one has the data in their hands. Yes, the tests are helpful, yes the in room response and reflection tests are very helpful, provided we understand how our own room and furnishings can color the sound. However, to run such tests with such expensive, capable equipment, and not audibly verify the findings, well, you draw your own conclusions - that irks me. I find Amir's new TH-cam channel helpful and have voted several of the video's up. Some of you need to take a deep breath.
Frequency Response charts start at 10:30
Viewpoints on sound and comparison start at 11:50
Sierra 2 Report Card listed at 22:30
You can get cheap fold-out reflectors off Amazon, they should help even out the exposure.
thank you
@@2ChannelListeningNo problem. To tell you the truth I didn't even notice,. Mostly just listened to the audio. Only looked closer at the video to see what the inner cabinet, mid-bass driver, and crossover looked like.
@@mpix8302 Lol, fair enough. Cheers!
@2 Channel Listening Good work. I like your videos. One thing I would like you to add is try to describe the sound signature a bit more. What kind of sound can we expect from that speaker? I know there is nothing like hearing the speakers in our own setup but sometimes it helps to have an idea of the type of sound to expect...
By the way I almost bought a pair of Ascend Sierra 2-ex last month but I was unsure after some reviewer said that these speakers do not handle well fast and complex music...
They're in San Clemente california now . -)
Got it.
All of this is neither here nor there, but the "Japanese guitar" you refer to is a Shamisen (in this case, a Tsugaru Shamisen) and it has 3 strings. Which is weird given the movie being Kubo and the Two Strings (note that I have not seen the movie). A Chinese Erhu has only 2 strings....but that's definitely not what's being played or pictured in the Regina Spektor video. Shamisen are excellent instruments for evaluating speaker sound. Check out the Yoshida Brothers, for example.
Thank you for the clarification and recommendation.
@@2ChannelListening No worries. I like your videos. As a constant experimenter in the used market, it's fun to see your perspective.
Really great review. So comprehensive!...been looking at these. Primary listening for me is acoustic/chamber jazz, some orchestral, but sometimes get into multi-tracked project stuff as well. Looking to replace my totem arrows, one of which seems to have a driver issue. These seem to compare based on what you mentioned. Wondering if you've had any experience with Quad s2's...don't know if these have anywhere a similar sound signature just because of that similar configuration tweeter-wise, but am also looking at those. Thank you for the expert perspective.
Hello John, thank you for your post. Right now, I am living with the latest version, the 2EX and they are another step above the "2's". Really incredible for their size. I'm still breaking them in and have not run an in room bass tones yet, but I can already hear deeper notes versus the 1's and 2's, yet no trade off with masking mids and high's. I have yet to meet a Raal tweeter I didn't like compared to domes, not that there aren't very well executed dome tweeters, they usually reside in much more expensive products though. IMO.
I do not have first hand experience with Quad speakers. These are very non-fatiguing speakers with exceptional leading edge detail and great sound stage depth. I was listening to James Horner film scores the other night, and I was very pleased with image depth and space. Not quite Totem Element Fires, but at a third the cost, most of the way there. Absolutely better that how I remember my KEF R300's. 2EX are faster, with better extension.
@@2ChannelListening Appreciate the heads-up about the ex level on the sierras. Might be worth saving a while longer if those take detail, balance, effortlessness, stage to an appreciably higher level 🙏🏼. Look forward to any review on those! 😊
@@riccitone March 13th John.
Have you any experience/opinions about the Sierra LX?
Anyone who depends solely on Audioscience reviews would be hard pressed for a great setup. Nice speaker for a smaller room at mid-levels. Being more of a high sensitivity guy it's a little low for my tastes. Possibly do to the crossover and tweeter network being overly complex for a 2 way. I'm sure that affects dynamics.
Hello Gennaro, I would agree on your first premise, since they seem to chase only equipment with the lowest distortion and highest SNR range...dry dry dry...
My ZU Dirty Weekend are 97db sensitive and I can attest that the Sierra 2 gives little up to the ZU. Yes, they do not have the lower registers - yet that's where the 2EX is supposed to amaze, playing as low as 33hz! Believe me, I do get what you are saying though. I just listened to fully updated Klipsch Cornwalls, blasting Partricia Berber's Nardis - the weight and signature of the kickdrum is amazing with those 15" drivers. Not even the 10" ZU's replicate that punch. Thanks for watching!
@@2ChannelListening So if i was moving from a klipsch Forte ii I'd probably be disappointed with the ascend acoustics serra tower? It's a smaller room and I'm wondering what to do. Maybe keep them? I upgraded them to the max, even new custom LMAHL tweeter drivers. Idk. Not sure if I'm a klipsch guy anymore or not. I like the warmth of my old kg4s but want the detail of the Forte. Idk
@@el34glo59 I I understand correctly, your Forte II is modified? From a room pressurization and fullness perspective, yes, you would be disappointed. However, from the mid-range up, I bet the Ribbon equipped Sierra Tower will teach the Forte a thing or two. Its a big trade off, one for the other.
Since you mentioned one of your 10... what is your favorite speaker so far?
Currently, or of everything I've owned to this point? The ZU Omen Def MKII's with Radian upgrade remains my favorite speaker to this point, closely followed by my Acoustic Research AR9 LS. Both perform with incredible scale.
@@2ChannelListening Radian upgrade? I got called back from Zu and told mine would be ready in under a week... so I decided to keep waiting.
@@megustachuletas3956 that's some good news for you. Yup, www.zuaudio.com/diy/omen-def-2-radian
Great video my friend you doing great💥👍🏼😁
Thank you! Cheers!
@@2ChannelListening 🙏🏻NP🙏🏻💥👍🏼😁
I've always argued that floor-standers and stand-mounts with stands take up roughly the same space in a room. For arguments sake, would you prefer the Dirty Weekends or the Sierra 2s on stands? How about those KEF 104/2, where are they in the mix? PS- Enjoying the channel...
Your Honour, if I must answer your question as transparently as possible, on pain of death, for me its still my fully loaded ZU DW. The ZU have all the transparency of the S2's, and fills out an additional 5 db (ish) of lower hz.
Hi!!!Thanks again for your review!!Because i want to buy the sierra 2,do you thing that the new sierra 2 ex its so much better than this that worth the 500 $ more?Thank you so much!!!
If you have an existing subwoofer, you would not notice as much of a difference from the standard 2 to the EX. If you do not have a subwoofer to fill in the bottom, I would absolutely recommend the EX. Without a doubt the upgraded Seas driver really does present a fuller range sound vs. the basic 2.
Good luck, thanks for watching.
@@2ChannelListening thank you so much for your fast respond!!!Have a great day!!!
man, I dont understand Amir and his hifi laboratory. measurements are awesome but how can u judge without critical listening?
Your guess on that decision is as good as mine...
Amir is a charlatan and has tin ears.
Listening is the final test, but measurements can help you attain a good sound. For the record, Ascend now uses a Klippel to design their speakers .
Many people don't treat their room much so you'll get a lot of variation due to your room .
You can try-al and error or soup up your anxiety until you buy some random speaker based on a subjective review as well.
Imo understanding measurements can help you understand what type of sound you like and find similar speakers. You don't even have to like flat in the end.
Dispersion characteristics and maybe compression/multi tone all play a role in the sound too.
5:48 polypropylene :)
I applaud anyone putting together a video, especially showing their own face. With that said, you definitely come off as a science denier. Subjective impressions have some use, but they’re inconsistent and flawed because our memory sucks when it comes to what we hear. Objective understanding is how we push companies to create better products. The work of Toole and Geddes definitely helps determine which measurements matter, how to interpret them, and what a properly designed speaker should look like.
Hello Cujobob. "Science denier"...LOL.
Give me one example in any of my video's where I come out and say throw away specifications and frequency response charts. Give me one example where I say they are foolish and or useless? I clearly state they are a starting point and direction to point the consumer, but not the end all be all. You will not find it. Thanks for watching though.
@@2ChannelListening Measurements can tell you with 85-90% accuracy how well someone will prefer the sound of a speaker. It's not just a starting point, it's literally what defines how well a speaker does it's job of accurately reproducing a signal. The standard measurements claimed by most manufacturers are mostly useless because they're stated in such a way that they tell you nothing.
You downplayed Amir's work stating that his objective measurements weren't as reliable as your subjective measurements. I'm not saying Amir is always right or that I agree with him on anything, but subjective listening tests have little real value because you can't reliably compare it with the sound of another product because your mind physically cannot recall sound accurately enough for anything but very short bursts (which isn't long enough to do a real comparison). It's a physical limitation of the human mind.
Good morning Cujobob. So, if our brains are so screwed up, then how do we determine what we "should and shouldn't hear" based on all those fancy graphs and charts? (without training mind you). Do layman know what they are looking at when they comb through all that data, do you think they do?
Honestly, I've gone through ASR's forums. Those guys are rude and nasty toward specific manufacturers that many of us adore. Klipsch and ZU tend to get dog piled on and I see the comments, oh look at that frequency curve, blah blah blah. I don't bash a speaker I've never sat down for a critical listen with - the guys at ASR cannot make that same claim. That's not science, that's mob mentality posturing.
Let me ask you something. Do you think Amir's write up on the Sierra 2's was fair to the manufacturer? Not investigating the results, doing the follow up? I know I get taken to town for far less on TH-cam.
@@2ChannelListening When I first came across ASR's forum, I was immediately put off because of their Schiit bashing and what seemed like promotion of Topping products (which I'd read many mentions of QC issues with at the time). I am an objective person and well read when it comes to things acoustic and psycoacoustic related. In fact, my favorite speakers were purchased at the home of Dr. Earl Geddes. Upon further reading on the forum and then further into the subject matter, I came to appreciate what it is they do there. You can absolutely tell the engineering quality and more importantly, the sound quality of a product based on the way it measures.
For speakers, we don't just hear direct sound from the speaker because we aren't listening to them in an open field. Room issues are always a factor and there are various ways to deal with them. As Dr. Geddes' has said, you shouldn't try to solve a three dimensional problem in a two dimensional space (EQ) for those issues and they should be corrected at the speaker level. The polar response will tell you what you can expect coming off of the side walls, floor, and ceiling. If you get the best technical speaker, you can EQ to your tastes afterwards if desired...but you shouldn't purchase a speaker that is designed less effectively because it has an EQ of sorts built in, that will color everything through it.
As for electronic components, measurements tell you very clearly how well a DAC or amp does it's job. The hidden factor here is what type of distortion each product has (the distortion profile). When people talk of warmth and added soundstage...that is additional distortion adding in something that was never there. There's nothing wrong with enjoying that, but it does mean that you're not getting the best technical performance. What I have done recently is put together a system of the Topping Pre90 preamplifier with a Purifi based power amplifier. Gobs of power and complete transparency for not a ton of money. Now, I do like tubes in my system at times, so to add that in, I would simply put a tubed preamplifier in the chain. I have much more expensive gear that can't touch the level of fidelity I'm currently getting, though.
As to your specific questions, reviewers should try to inform the average people so they can make better informed decisions. This is good for everyone. Informed buyers push engineering to new heights.
Is ASR always fair to companies? I think the data is fair, but sometimes the comments can be a little too subjective for an objective analysis. It gives mixed signals. I'll have to re-read the Sierra 2 review as it's been some time and answer more specifically at a later date. Every forum has its issues, we shouldn't take any as gospel.
That doesn't mean objective data isn't insanely useful/important.
Everything you said in this third post, I am totally on board with. You stated your claim from a more valuable perspective, your experience and how you arrived to it, this I can respect. I am curious about your music selection when playing your "top performing" i.e. best spec equipment. Do you find that you limit what artists and recordings are pleasant? The challenge with the most revealing or technically detailed products are hampered by signal quality (many times anyway). The recording itself. Have you run into issues with the genres you play? Personally, I will not give up music I love if it comes at the expense of acquiring equipment with the highest SNR and lowest distortion numbers. I have found this to be a double edged sword with some products.
I appreciate this last post of yours a great deal, its more conversational and less defending of the ASR forum mob. And like many times, I have to say I am not against using specs to figure out what will perform best. I am against using only specs to "dismiss" brands and trial. I will check out the Topping Pre90, thanks.