Dear Mr. Vernon, we accept the fact that we had to sacrifice a whole Saturday in detention for whatever it was we did wrong. But we think you're crazy to make us write an essay telling you who we think we are.
Can you do a video on building a 2.2 or 4.2 system? Mid size speakers are really lacking these days and I see a dual small L and R sub with just one set or even 2 pairs of bookshelf speakers running both A&B lines to left or right only being an ideal stereo setup. Would be really cool to see what you come up with....I'm looking to build something like this with maybe the polk 10" and the Sony's running the Sony 2 channel or onkyo. But looking at all possible options, even using center channel speakers as L&R as bass is taken by subs.
@@StrangeBrewReviews use the wires from the amp and run them to the back of the sub. Run those to your speakers. Most Subs allow this and you can use whatever amp you want. What model amps are you using? Another option (less desirable) if you have only 1 sub out is to buy an RCA Y splitter. The issue is you will be running both in mono but it would work.
@@ufarkingicehole haven't bought it yet, but would like to have left and right subs, and four bookshelfs running in stereo. I know running an all Sony setup would do it very well, but is there a better option?... I know you could run both A&B channels on the Sony and dedicate both left or right high levels to one side or the other. I priced out an all Sony setup with the 2 channel amp,2 subs and 4 bookshelfs and all the wires for under $700. Just curious how this setup would actually sound as opposed to just in theory. Or would it be worth it to piece together a few other options for a few more dollars. There just is not much available in the descent quality 3 way 10" or 12" mid size speakers. Don't like towers, Don't like tiny modular design, But I think a good 4.2 stereo setup is my ideal way to go, I mostly listen to music, but that would also do descent in a movie.
@@StrangeBrewReviews i have a stupid amount of experience and have spent a small fortune finding best bang for the buck. I don't know everything but I'm Definitely not a Novice so I hope I can help you a bit. First question is why use 4 speakers (minus subs) for stereo? If you want the best bang for 2 channel listening, this probably isn't the answer. Also if you go with a Sony amp that played A + B set, you may want to find out if that will cause your amp to run at lower impedance especially running 4 speakers in stereo. What kind of music do you mostly listen to? What is your max budget? What are the 2 most important things you look for when listening to speakers? Do you have any equipment already? Are you willing to get used components to get the most bang for the buck?
I'm not an audiophile but videos like these help me not hate an entire group of people. Good to see reasonable, and friendly audiophiles. That's so Metal.
Cool. Your first recommended system is sitting across from me in my living room right now, based on your recommendations. So far I'm only into it for about $250, but that did include speaker stands and making my own cables. I'll probably do a sub soon to round out the system. What I appreciate is that you've made audio FUN again! I have a little system that allows me to enjoy the music for no more than the cost of lunch for a month. Do I have the "perfect" system - no. I don't have "perfect" ears either ;-) . Thank you, Sir!
swap the speakers to kenwood LS880A. 200 dollars. i can describe how much better the sound, is but you better just hear it for yourself. always: never buy new. vintage is 95% off, and they costed 10.000 dollars at the time. so really never buy new, just dont do that.
All this time I'd been using the high-level inputs on my sub from my A07, not realizing I could be using the aux 3.5mm out out to RCA to drive it. That that just cut four wires down to one on my setup for better cable management. Thanks, Cheapaudioman! You're the hero we deserve. My budget setup is pretty much what you have going on here : an Aiyima T08 to the A07 (upgraded the power supply) to the Sonys with an ELAC sub1010 - fed by a Pi running Volumio on USB, a Wiim mini via S/PDIF, a TV going to the optical in, and an old pos turntable to the RCA in. I tube rolled the T8 to an old GE for funsies... Grado phones, because NY represent! Fair winds and following seas.
I just gave my son a Sony STRDH190 and a pair of the SSCS5 speakers. He’s running a Samsung 4K tv and PlayStation 5 into the receiver. Streaming movies, Apple Music, TH-cam Premium Music, etc sounds great! However, I know it’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to equipment. But it’s a good start. Thanks for sharing, Randy!
I love putting together killer budget systems. I've currently got Acoustic Energy AE100.2 speakers, Loxjie A30 amp and a monitor audio mrw10 sub all coming in at £600.
Great video. I have the Sony receiver str-dh190 and polk tsi100 bookshelf speakers. I got for them for 120. 00 and a polk psw10 for 90.00 2 years ago. So it was more than 350.00 but sounds great in an 11x9 room. I am extremely satisfied with this system. Thanks for the sub setup video.
Sprayed some deoxit on the pioneer again yesterday about a year after stumbling upon it at goodwill. Sprayed last time when i bought it. Incredible how that stuff works and literally makes it sound like new.. ZERO hiss or pops with any function.. bye bye staticy volume pot/loudness button/input selector 😍 The $520 total i invested in that thing and the svs primes could literally last me forever. Legit. I can't imagine better sound (never experienced either!) Looking at older audiophiles and the rabbit hole so many go into with perpetual upgrading, i hope I don't fall into that cycle. Music is music and I'd really have a hard time believing my current setup can be noticeably bested until it reaches $1000+ at least. Thanks Randy! Your videos have become (sadly) of less utility to me since I have my (what i think is) my perma-system based upon your recommendation. However, I still watch all the time just cause it's enjoyable to watch a cool dude like yourself talk about cool audio products, despite if I want them or not.
All solid recommendations. One slight correction, however: the Loxjie A30 does actually have a Coaxial input - it just shares the same input jack as the R analog input, so you can't have both analog and coax sources plugged in at the same time. But it's there. At the moment, I actually have a Loxjie A30 running a pair of Micca RB42s, and can attest that this combo works great in a medium-size room. The A30 has no problem running the Miccas to satisfyingly loud volumes, and the combo sounds really, really good overall - clean, detailed, and satisfyingly full sound with quite a bit of punch.
This was an extremely useful video for me, and would love to see more like this down the road. I’m fortunate to have a room dedicated to my main system, but have been wanting to throw together a 3rd system like this for my garage workspace..High bang for the buck in these systems, love it! Randy hitting his stride now, I think his best is yet to come and it’s a real pleasure to witness on a near daily basis.
Thanks for the review. I purchased the System 4 receiver (Sony) and the CS5 bookshelf speakers. Then bought an Audio Technica turnbable (bronze looking Technics looking model). Everything should be here by end of next week, looking forward to some decent sound.
I was lucky to score a set of debut 6.2 from Crutchfield in 2019 for $150. Also grabbed a small AD18 at that time without really knowing what it was for $140. 3 years later I'm still so impressed by the sound of this setup and
The A30 *does* have a coax in - it's shared with the right analog RCA jack. It's marked right there bro! PS: Love the wall of speakers in the room behind you!
My start -up audiophile system was a Rotel RA-02 integrated amp with a set of KEF-Q1 speakers. used a 2nd Hand Marantz CD-62 disk.It sounded amazing for me at the time and that was dirt cheap when I started.
Bought me a Sony Strdh190 and hooked it to my B&W DM12's and it sounds great! Had a pioneer SX1080 but it needs a major cleaning and couldn't listen to music anymore... too much static and stuff. I know the SX1080 and the Strdh190 are night and day, but the sony does what I need it to do until my SX1080 is cleaned and refurbished professionnaly
I'm running a system that's about $1000 now, not including speakers. Schiit Hel2, 3.5 out to the 3.5 input of the Aiyima A07. From there, RCA out to the Aiyima A3001. My A07 does have the Sparkos Labs discrete op-amps. Randy is correct though, you can start small and upgrade over time. I started with the A07 based on his recommendations , did some research and followed this path. My Power supply is the Drok 48v 10A. This currently powers both Aiyima amps and is being fitted with an isolated DC to DC converter to power the Schiit Hel2. A great solution if you don't want a bunch of bricks around. All the cables are custom DIY'ish high end Belden, My speakers cables are custom DIY Canare 4S11 Star Quad Speaker Cables Soon to be moving to Mogami. I have the Drok in a custom built enclosure with a C14 socket for power in, high power toggle switch, 2, 5.5x2.5 dc out sockets for the amps, and one USB 2.0 out. I have an insanely expensive Starlight 8 USB C to C for my Laptop source to connect to the Schiit Hel2. Basically taking Randy's advice and walking up he upgrade path over time. The A07 is one of his best recommendations ever. Once you start on a path like he suggests... You can upgrade this along the way. I started small and worked my way up that path and now my system sounds crazy good. Almost too good for the price point. All thanks to Randy. Some redditers and audiophile snobs turn their nose... But he points you in good directions. I for one, am thankful. Thanks Again Randy.
I just discovered your channel recently! I immediately went to your channel and looked for a video on visualizers, but didn't find one. I would love to see a video of you reviewing inexpensive visualizers and see which ones you would recommend / stay away from. I know the visual aspect of it is largely subjective, but there's still factors to consider, such as: - How accurate the visualization is - build quality - potential noise introduced into the system (depending on how it captures the audio) - price - connectivity - settings / features
I have some 8 track tapes 1 that I played to it would not work anymore was Breakfast in America by Super Tramp and there were more. I am old enough to remember riding around in a black Chevy Van listing to 8 tracks. Rock On Brothers
Hey Randy, Hope you are well… just wanted to thank you for recommending the genuine apple lightning to jack adapter. Makes such a difference! I had a knockoff and it was basically useless, it had a hum and sometimes it would start dialling random numbers from my phone. Now that I’ve got the real deal, I can listen to music properly everywhere I go!
This video encouraged me to get started in HiFi...I've got the Sony SSCS5 speakers...will the Fosi BT30D power my Sony's? I hear different opinions where some say yes, and some say no...whatever I have that and the Q4 for sale.
I'm always looking for ways to improve performance (that's one of the fun things about this hobby) and I love a bargain. My greatest satisfaction is getting awesome sound out of something others overlooked.
Yes sir! Great video! I already have the STRDH190 and Sony SSCS5 speakers with the Wiim streamer and a Fiio DAC (has better sound in my opinion than the DAC in the Wiim) Paid about $350 for everything total after looking for some good deals. Very, very happy with all the features, inputs and sound. By the way, the Sony receiver does have a remote.
Outstanding as always Randy! Thank you very much for looking out for us budget conscious audiophiles. This was a great topic and it got me thinking about my budget guest bedroom system. It's an SMSL SA300 with JBL Stage A130's. It comes in at $338 and it sounds great. Keep up the great work.
Scored a Sony STR-DH190 for about $140. It's a great receiver for PC audio. A Schitt Modi 3E DAC and a couple of Emotiva B1+ speakers combine for some really good sound.
My favorite frequency is 60hz. Thank you so much for using it as background the whole video! Was it generated by the Sith Audio 60hz tone generator? I hope so!!!!
I run the Sony STR-DH190 with a pair of Klipsch RP-150ms and two Polk audio psw-10 subs for my living room setup. The amp pairs well with the Klipsch for a neutral sound. Bought everything used, grand total of $350 for everything. Yes the str comes with a remote
@@Ratchet98 The A output has a left and right channel as well as the B output. You could run two pairs of speakers off of this amp if you wanted. Even if it only had one pair of outputs you could run these subs by running a wire from the speaker to the sub hi-level input, they have built in amps in the sub all they need is the signal
Off my home computer I am running a Fosi BT20A amp into a set of Sony SS-CS5 speakers that have had their crossovers modified by me. This baby is cheap and very lovely sounding! You'll just have to trust me on that. Those Sony speakers are a real steal if you know what to do at the crossover to fix the miss-equalization in their design.
Great combo's all around. I was lucky enough to grab the Ayima T9, while it was in-stock, with SSCS5's. It's also a setup that looks pretty good sitting on the living room bookshelf with the tubes lit and the VU bouncing (if you keep the grills on the Sony's). I've have a couple non-gear people stare at and ask about the T9.
@@rockdriguez80 I've never found the Sony's hard to drive, but there's plenty of power. The Ayima claims 100 watts and it comes with a 24v 4.5 amp power supply.
STRDH190 has an impedance setting : press "amp menu" and you can select 6 ohms or 8 ohms. I own two of these. One with Elac Debut 6.2 (6ohms) and a subwoofer and it is fine. The other with big Polk Signature S60 (8ohms). .. and I use Bluethoot to connect with the TV (it sounds cleaner than it does with RCA wires).
A couple of years ago (for my 50th birthday) I bought myself the Sony STRDH190 and the Micca RB42 speakers. Some of the BEST MONEY I've EVER spent :D No dac (maybe I screwed up?) but I can stream on it from my iPhone no problem, so...???( I added a UTurn turntable to it later. GENIUS.)
Great video, Randy. Your a star in Scotland. Well in my house, anyway. I've got a pair of Mordaunt Short M20s. Interesting Speakers with interesting specs from 41hz? Up. Running classic Teac amps. My fav speakers are my Polk S20's love the bass response. Cheery
I just received a pair of Sony SS-CS5 bookshelf speakers for my birthday, early present, about a week ago. These replace my battered but awesome sounding 25-year-old Optimus PRO-LX7 speakers. The Sony's have a bit more treble, albeit a lot less bass than the Optimus speakers. Even my fiancee noticed this, so a couple days later she surprised me with the Sony SA-CS9 powered subwoofer. Now the setup sounds complete. The bookshelf speakers are powered by a Douk Audio M1 Pro amp.
Great video as always Randy. Great to actually see these 3 speakers together side by side so i can get an accurate picture of their size and footprint. Makes me very glad I chose the Miccas since i'm pretty sure i'm getting the same or similar performance for the size and they take up very little space. I use them under my bedroom tv on a 3 foot wide dresser with a yamaha av receiver in between and i don't need a sub. Fantastic little speakers!
I like these systems with the sub out. Seems like these little speakers need a sub to make me happy. My Nakamichi Dragon plays those cassette tapes like a boss, makes em sound real good. Better than hi-res digital. I am a lifetime member of the ACTO.
I started off with the Sony 190 and a pair of Sony SSCS5's. It was a great way to start but have since upgraded. I'm keeping it around for a backup or a possible secondary setup.
Very nice assortment. For $375, I went with a BasX A400 on sale for $300 and a pair of used $75 Marantz SP1515 (3-way 15" woofer). For $150, I got the A07 and used $75 Klipsch Mirage OM-9 Omni towers ( dual 6 1/2"). Great NEW speakers are currently over $2000. Prices should be falling soon due to stagflation.
Dayton HTA100BT and some JamoS803 has been shockingly good for me. You sold me on the Jamo and I'm glad you did. I've owned a large amount of bookshelf and studio monitors and really like sound stage and these Jamo's don't disappoint. I would love to hear your thoughts on the Dayton.
After your review of the Fosi DA-2120C I purchased and place in my reference system Gustard X-26 pro DAC and high end open baffle alnico/neodymium speakers and powered sub MAGICAL 🧙♂️🥰music
I've had the sony str-dh190 for about 2-3 years and it's been great I do use 4ohm speakers on them and it does fine I got it when it was 150 I can't believe that it's $200 now that's crazy
Great system options for an inexpensive ASMACC certified way to enjoy music. I personally don't buy anything that isn't ASMACC certified, it's the only way to know it is truly audiophile. It's the UL listing of the audio world.
Randy, any thoughts on doing a video for beginner tips to setting up said system with respect to finding optimal speaker placement? You reference a lot of test tracks throughout your reviews, but what's your order of operations when you get new gear in to make sure everythings delivering the best possible? When do you know you've got IT? Cheers
Get an old LG 3 or Note 9 and install Neutron Player Trial. That is a great DAC and player on the cheap. There are so many audio settings you can adjust. I run that now
Hey I'm no hipster and I love cassettes. Primarily because I'm good at recording them so they don't sound like garbage. And furthermore I don't accept type zeros. Instead I use them as ashtrays and door stoppers.
I've got the sony and a pair klipsch r51m's a uturn costume with mp-110 and a sony dvp-nc800h and it sounds great. I'm in it for just under $900 and I'm very happy.
Hugely helpful hivalue hifi hints! A point of possible confusion for some; Chip amps btw are not necessarily class D. The texas instruments LM3886 is a well-used AB amp chip which I think the akitika uses. There is the infamous 'gaincard' I think started it all off - much copied in diy hence 'gainclone'. Neurochrome audio also does some great kits based on this tech. I am not a tech myself, so the above could be subject to correction/qualification.
I just bought a sony STRDH190 receiver and got it a few days ago. I had the Sony SSCS5 speakers and when I started listening to my music through them, it sounded great. Way better than my old Sony one that was like 15 years old. The blue tooth like you said, sounded great running my amazon music streaming through it. Do I need a DAC (I have one and just got it yesterday on your recommendation, the Prozor 192 khz) for my digital music, or is it ok as is?
Will you be reviewing the performance of your Aiyama A07 with the 48V power supply? I’m considering upgrading by doing this too. Thanks! Another great episode!
Wow! Gutsy move Randy! I love it! It almost goes without saying that you and I agree about "audiophile" BS. It also almost goes without saying that I want to pop some popcorn and wait for the attacks from audiophiles. Not that I wish that on anyone, but proclaiming these items to be "audiophile" even if they really are will trigger the audiophiles (including a few reviewers), out there who think that it is not audiophile unless it costs $10,000 and is approved by them or they own the same piece (which changes weekly) and that is why I always used to tell folks not to pay any attention to that stuff. What gear to I define as "audiophile"? None and almost all gear! None: I don't believe in the label of "audiophile". Almost all: Does it make sound that is pleasing and satisfying to you? Then it is audiophile by original definition! The one exception in this list though I must admit would be the Sony STRDH190. I don't know about their speakers, so I can't comment on those, but Sony receivers, amps, sources, etc. are lousy. I have had several Sony products over the years and none of them have been any good. (That said though, when it comes to TVs, Sony sits equally on top with LG and formally Samsung). To this day I have a Sony BR player that is only a few months old and works "most of the time", but is very frustrating to use other times. If it goes into wait state, you have to unplug it and maybe pop the hood and rework the components to get it back to being functional. Sony designs their stuff to be this way. They want you to buy a new unit at the first glitch that they do not mention in the manual. For about $10 to $30 more, I can come up with better receivers than anything Sony puts out. Of course so can you though because you did the good deed saying that this list is not the end all, just 4 examples. So go for it Randy...Bring back the term "audiophile" to it's original meaning! I only hope that anyone who purchases on your recommendations is not involved in any "audio forums" or clubs or anything unless they know how stand firm and hold their ground to ward off the attacks from the audiophile snobs who are legion out there. My advice: The best way to do that is to ignore them and enjoy what you have. You also may want to laugh at them as well when you realize that you still have a bank account and are satisfied with your choices and many of them don't and are forever chasing mythical creatures unhappily.
yeah. audiophile is anything that you want it to be. I like to stir things up a bit. I'm sure they're stuff is good if not great. but everyone should be able to enjoy great sound regardless of their budget and someone needs to talk about pairing up affordable gear
Indeed. Audiophile is anything which plays music well, such that those of us who care how their music sounds can appreciate and enjoy it. I think you are being a bit hard on Sony, however. They must have hurt you deeply. They do a great line in noise cancelling headphones and my Sony 4K Blu-ray player works just fine.
@@cheapaudioman Absolutely! (And also since I am not doing it now and I was written media, not TH-cam, which is far more popular these days. I felt like I was the only one at the time....I may have well been).
@@jimfarrell4635 Well, I don't know about "hurt me deeply" and I think I'm pretty fair about Sony. I just got frustrated with the built-in, unpublished problems over several Sony products. As for the BR player, one should not have to to major surgery to recover from a wait state when the unit powers itself off. Other makes of BR players one simply hits the power button again to wake it up. Not Sony though. I have the Sony UBP X-700. 1) it is super slow, 2) if it powers off for wait state, I have to unplug it and do a complete reset to get it to power up again. I'm thinking of going back to my old Denon high-end DVD/SACD player, which was also multi-regional. Over the years I had many audio products from Sony that made me sour. Their TVs are great, but over-priced. I think that is the only product they do well it seems, but I have not heard their speakers. This is not uncommon though for big corporations like Sony. I've seen this with more focused companies as well for different reasons besides getting into to many different products. Example: Paradigm - once one of the best speaker makes ever. They decided to kill their best lines to let some new young designer have his way and now their best line up is simply dreadful compared to what was before (all tilted up beyond human tolerance, etc). Same thing with McIntosh, back in the day, their gear were built like tanks and sounded fantastic. Today's McIntosh gear is riddled with problems from cheap components that fail within the first two years and the stuff doesn't even sound good, but they sell based on the name now days with stupid prices to match. I like the looks of McIntosh a lot, but the rest of it is so unreliable. It is sad where some companies have gone over the years.
The term ‘Rolling” opamps, is borrowed from the tube rollers. To remove a vacuum tube, you gently rotate the tube in a circular motion while lifting up/ roll the tube, to remove one to replace with another.
XTZ Spirit 4 finally got around to getting a pair, WOW £325 plus shipping . I need a power amp I will be ordering one from xtz . This speaker made my jaw drop . All I can say is it's worth ordering a pair, they sing ...... I still have the nobsound amp like £60 is a great little amp .
I was going to order it too at some point. I want to compare it to my old / at this point ancient budget Denon AVR. I also have an old sub with a dead amplifier that the 07 could power, so it seems like a no brainer. I have a Modi 3+ DAC, and the Wiim mini already.
9:43 "Roll" is short for "Roll your own". It's popular with a lot of DIY-oriented computer geeks, e.g. "I didn't want to buy that NAS so I rolled my own".
Great Monday morning eye opener! It really is remarkable how inexpensively you can get started in this hobby for..and have it sound good! Again... you must be the hardest working guy in HiFi!
Slight correction - a Class D amp design is when the output device(s) are "switched on" during operation only when there is a signal, and a switching/PWM (pulse width modulation) power supply is used. You're correct that many / most of Class D amps use chips for the output device(s), but there are also chip amps that are Class A/B - like the wonderful AkitikA GT-102 Z4, for example. So, it is their switching power supply and the mode they use to power the output device(s) that makes them Class D.
Class D can have linear supply with transformer and rectifier bridge. It's the PWM output that makes it class D. Most class D amps use SMPS because they require single rail voltage and SMPS'es are cheaper
@@thienan567 Okay, and I am assuming that after a linear power supply, there is a PWM circuit that drives the output? A basic question I have is how the low pass filtering is done on Class D designs? The PWM is efficient, but it it is essentially noise, and has to be removed, right?
@Douglas Blake Thanks for the specifics. I am assuming that it is possible to use a switching power supply on a Class A/B amp? But as far as I have seen, this is rare? So, that is why I was assuming that the switching power supply indicates Class D.
Hey cheapaudioman, love your content and look forward to learning more & more about smaller audio companies out there. My question is I have a fluance turntable and and klipsch R 51PM's which sounds great but just lacking a little bass. Would you suggest a subwoofer or a class d amp with bass and treble controls? Thanks in advance.
Thanks for responding. I have another question, how about a preamp with bass & treble controls being I have powered speakers. If not I guess a subwoofer will be my best bet. If so any subs you recommend under $200 that would go well with these speakers. Thanks again and don't forget to have a cup of coffee LOL Stay cool buddy.
Nice simple set ups for entry level hi-fi. All of these are great desktop systems though the Sony's are a little large for that application. Adding a low cost powered subwoofer is really going to bring these systems to life such as the Polk PSW10 or a Monoprice SW-10. For truly affordable amplification, check the thrift shops. I found a capable Onkyo 5.1 surround receiver with pre-outs on all channels for $25! There was also a viable Sony receiver for the same price.
Love your videos, was going to buy a 2.1 Costco Klipsch set up for my desktop before I found you. I just grabbed the KEF 150's to use in a 2.1 setup and am wondering what I should pair them with. I have about $250 to spend not including a sub. I was thinking I was going to do the Aiyma A07, then I went to the A08 and now I am thinking T9 or the D03.
Randy, I really like your videos and your sarcastic humor, but please post a link to the ACTO. I can't find it anywhere on the web. This is very frustrating to someone interested in obsessing about new audiophile topics.
Hey Randy. I've been watching your channel a couple of weeks and am watching some old ones. I found an error...... The Loxjie A30 DOES have a coaxial input that is shared with the right channel rca input. So you can't connect a coaxial source and a line in at the same time. From the Amazon listing...... LOXJIE A30 Desktop Stereo HiFi Audio Power Amplifier & Headphone Amplifier, Infineon's MA12070 Chip Class D Amp, ES9023 DAC Chip, USB/Optical/Coaxial/RCA/Bluetooth 5.0 Input (with Remote Control)
Funnily enough I actually bought that Sony unit for a friend for them to start playing their vinyl collection instead of just collecting them, and they love the way it sounds as well as the features it has, tbf they've only ever used built-in speakers of a TV or their headphones with their PC, so anything is going to sound amazing, but I wanted the first time they heard vinyl to blow them away and that's exactly what happened with that Sony unit. Better than the suitcase player that their significant other had planned on getting, yeah it would only have been £50 compared to the approx £380 the set up they have now cost, but I knew they'd hate it if that was their first experience of vinyl. I recommended they pair their system with a set of Wharfedale diamond 9.1's and while I'm sure there's better options out there, they don't really have money to just switch out components and if it brings them joy then that's all I or they care about. I would have said to get a pair of diamond 220's, but the price had shot up to 2.5x what I paid.
It is 1am and I just put this on pause and went downstairs to get a cup of coffee and my wife saw me in the kitchen and said are you watching that audio guy again go to sleep.
Hi from Kenosha Wisconsin. I have been watching you to help make a decision on a new system. Here is what I just purchased. Fluance RT85 Blue paired with a Denon PMA 600 NE. All due by the end of the week. Before I buy new speakers what I planning to try them with my Bose 301III. not sure how they will fit into the new system. Any suggestions for speakers with this new system. I listen to 50 thru 70 rock but also like Spyro Gyra as well. Back in the day I had a Harman Kardon system (1980is) Keep up the great information!
Am still waiting for my SSCS5 ordered from Best Buy @88usd/pair, quite a long time to reach this other side of the globe 😬. Will be driving it with Aiyima A08 per your reco 💪🏽
Great info. as always. I'm using the A07, with the RB42's & a Modi 3e dac, about same price range, ps. I sue miss a remote though. In your opinion does the T8 have similar DAC, if so I woud change to that, I really like my sound signature now
I love the lintons. You'd need a center channel. the dialogue isn't as crisp as a lot of speakers purpose built for that but as fronts they're great. if you use them without a center there will be a little bit of a smoothness in the vocals
best cheap audiophile system is my kitchen setup: Kenwood KA-3700 (70ies) + Panasonic wooden speakers from a 2002 micro machine + BASF D-6200 Hifi Tuner B sitting on to'p of a 90ies wooden kitchen board --> no details, amazing fun to listen 6 hours/day. Costed me in 2006: 7 + ? + 5 USD
A year ago so this may get lost but I hear that the all in ones amplify digitally then convert to analog last. If connecting a turntable is it converted to digital then back again? If so is the analog sound lost somewhere?? Trying to make the simplest set up for turntable and tv.
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----------apos.audio?sca_ref=552340.TY98BPcZ6P
-----------massdrop.7eer.net/qnOye5
------------Amazon Unlimited Music and Disney Plus Free Trial amzn.to/3DRAVj9
--------------www.patreon.com/cheapaudioman
Dear Mr. Vernon, we accept the fact that we had to sacrifice a whole Saturday in detention for whatever it was we did wrong. But we think you're crazy to make us write an essay telling you who we think we are.
Can you do a video on building a 2.2 or 4.2 system? Mid size speakers are really lacking these days and I see a dual small L and R sub with just one set or even 2 pairs of bookshelf speakers running both A&B lines to left or right only being an ideal stereo setup. Would be really cool to see what you come up with....I'm looking to build something like this with maybe the polk 10" and the Sony's running the Sony 2 channel or onkyo. But looking at all possible options, even using center channel speakers as L&R as bass is taken by subs.
@@StrangeBrewReviews use the wires from the amp and run them to the back of the sub. Run those to your speakers. Most Subs allow this and you can use whatever amp you want.
What model amps are you using?
Another option (less desirable) if you have only 1 sub out is to buy an RCA Y splitter.
The issue is you will be running both in mono but it would work.
@@ufarkingicehole haven't bought it yet, but would like to have left and right subs, and four bookshelfs running in stereo. I know running an all Sony setup would do it very well, but is there a better option?...
I know you could run both A&B channels on the Sony and dedicate both left or right high levels to one side or the other.
I priced out an all Sony setup with the 2 channel amp,2 subs and 4 bookshelfs and all the wires for under $700.
Just curious how this setup would actually sound as opposed to just in theory. Or would it be worth it to piece together a few other options for a few more dollars.
There just is not much available in the descent quality 3 way 10" or 12" mid size speakers. Don't like towers, Don't like tiny modular design, But I think a good 4.2 stereo setup is my ideal way to go, I mostly listen to music, but that would also do descent in a movie.
@@StrangeBrewReviews i have a stupid amount of experience and have spent a small fortune finding best bang for the buck. I don't know everything but I'm Definitely not a Novice so I hope I can help you a bit.
First question is why use 4 speakers (minus subs) for stereo? If you want the best bang for 2 channel listening, this probably isn't the answer. Also if you go with a Sony amp that played A + B set, you may want to find out if that will cause your amp to run at lower impedance especially running 4 speakers in stereo.
What kind of music do you mostly listen to?
What is your max budget?
What are the 2 most important things you look for when listening to speakers?
Do you have any equipment already?
Are you willing to get used components to get the most bang for the buck?
I'm not an audiophile but videos like these help me not hate an entire group of people. Good to see reasonable, and friendly audiophiles. That's so Metal.
Starting in audio, I hated most of the community because they only suggested expensive kit. Price-to-performance should always be king.
Cool. Your first recommended system is sitting across from me in my living room right now, based on your recommendations. So far I'm only into it for about $250, but that did include speaker stands and making my own cables. I'll probably do a sub soon to round out the system.
What I appreciate is that you've made audio FUN again! I have a little system that allows me to enjoy the music for no more than the cost of lunch for a month. Do I have the "perfect" system - no. I don't have "perfect" ears either ;-) .
Thank you, Sir!
swap the speakers to kenwood LS880A. 200 dollars. i can describe how much better the sound, is but you better just hear it for yourself.
always: never buy new. vintage is 95% off, and they costed 10.000 dollars at the time. so really never buy new, just dont do that.
All this time I'd been using the high-level inputs on my sub from my A07, not realizing I could be using the aux 3.5mm out out to RCA to drive it. That that just cut four wires down to one on my setup for better cable management. Thanks, Cheapaudioman! You're the hero we deserve.
My budget setup is pretty much what you have going on here : an Aiyima T08 to the A07 (upgraded the power supply) to the Sonys with an ELAC sub1010 - fed by a Pi running Volumio on USB, a Wiim mini via S/PDIF, a TV going to the optical in, and an old pos turntable to the RCA in.
I tube rolled the T8 to an old GE for funsies...
Grado phones, because NY represent!
Fair winds and following seas.
I just gave my son a Sony STRDH190 and a pair of the SSCS5 speakers. He’s running a Samsung 4K tv and PlayStation 5 into the receiver. Streaming movies, Apple Music, TH-cam Premium Music, etc sounds great! However, I know it’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to equipment. But it’s a good start. Thanks for sharing, Randy!
I love the way cassettes sound especially metal white zombie was one of my fav the cut off bass muted treble and fuzzy midrange was perfect for it
I love putting together killer budget systems. I've currently got Acoustic Energy AE100.2 speakers, Loxjie A30 amp and a monitor audio mrw10 sub all coming in at £600.
My favorite video from you in some time. Not to say the others were lacking, but this one speaks to my inner yard sale/bargain hunter.
Great video. I have the Sony receiver str-dh190 and polk tsi100 bookshelf speakers. I got for them for 120. 00 and a polk psw10 for 90.00 2 years ago. So it was more than 350.00 but sounds great in an 11x9 room. I am extremely satisfied with this system. Thanks for the sub setup video.
Randy I think this is one of your best videos ever or maybe the best, glad to see you back to your original roots, thanks a million
Glad you enjoyed it
Sprayed some deoxit on the pioneer again yesterday about a year after stumbling upon it at goodwill. Sprayed last time when i bought it. Incredible how that stuff works and literally makes it sound like new.. ZERO hiss or pops with any function.. bye bye staticy volume pot/loudness button/input selector 😍
The $520 total i invested in that thing and the svs primes could literally last me forever. Legit. I can't imagine better sound (never experienced either!)
Looking at older audiophiles and the rabbit hole so many go into with perpetual upgrading, i hope I don't fall into that cycle. Music is music and I'd really have a hard time believing my current setup can be noticeably bested until it reaches $1000+ at least.
Thanks Randy! Your videos have become (sadly) of less utility to me since I have my (what i think is) my perma-system based upon your recommendation. However, I still watch all the time just cause it's enjoyable to watch a cool dude like yourself talk about cool audio products, despite if I want them or not.
All solid recommendations. One slight correction, however: the Loxjie A30 does actually have a Coaxial input - it just shares the same input jack as the R analog input, so you can't have both analog and coax sources plugged in at the same time. But it's there.
At the moment, I actually have a Loxjie A30 running a pair of Micca RB42s, and can attest that this combo works great in a medium-size room. The A30 has no problem running the Miccas to satisfyingly loud volumes, and the combo sounds really, really good overall - clean, detailed, and satisfyingly full sound with quite a bit of punch.
This was an extremely useful video for me, and would love to see more like this down the road. I’m fortunate to have a room dedicated to my main system, but have been wanting to throw together a 3rd system like this for my garage workspace..High bang for the buck in these systems, love it! Randy hitting his stride now, I think his best is yet to come and it’s a real pleasure to witness on a near daily basis.
Wow Randy I love all the combo's you put together, using price in mind, to good quality sound. Keep up the great work!
Thanks for the review. I purchased the System 4 receiver (Sony) and the CS5 bookshelf speakers. Then bought an Audio Technica turnbable (bronze looking Technics looking model). Everything should be here by end of next week, looking forward to some decent sound.
Thanks man, I appreciate all the work you do. They seem like great options for great sound for friends to get them into stereo.
I was lucky to score a set of debut 6.2 from Crutchfield in 2019 for $150. Also grabbed a small AD18 at that time without really knowing what it was for $140. 3 years later I'm still so impressed by the sound of this setup and
The A30 *does* have a coax in - it's shared with the right analog RCA jack. It's marked right there bro!
PS: Love the wall of speakers in the room behind you!
I got my first Furman today thanks to you, thanks!
I'm running a full 5.2.4 Atmos setup with the Sonys. My wife and dogs hate it. But it sounds epic! I also have 2 SVS PB1000 pros!
My start -up audiophile system was a Rotel RA-02 integrated amp with a set of KEF-Q1 speakers. used a 2nd Hand Marantz CD-62 disk.It sounded amazing for me at the time and that was dirt cheap when I started.
I remember all those components 🙃 🇬🇧
Kudos to this Channel better than AudioPhiliac just honest , reliable and practical review, no dramas not too much Icing on the cake type of talks.
Bought me a Sony Strdh190 and hooked it to my B&W DM12's and it sounds great!
Had a pioneer SX1080 but it needs a major cleaning and couldn't listen to music anymore... too much static and stuff.
I know the SX1080 and the Strdh190 are night and day, but the sony does what I need it to do until my SX1080 is cleaned and refurbished professionnaly
I'm running a system that's about $1000 now, not including speakers. Schiit Hel2, 3.5 out to the 3.5 input of the Aiyima A07. From there, RCA out to the Aiyima A3001. My A07 does have the Sparkos Labs discrete op-amps. Randy is correct though, you can start small and upgrade over time. I started with the A07 based on his recommendations , did some research and followed this path.
My Power supply is the Drok 48v 10A. This currently powers both Aiyima amps and is being fitted with an isolated DC to DC converter to power the Schiit Hel2. A great solution if you don't want a bunch of bricks around.
All the cables are custom DIY'ish high end Belden, My speakers cables are custom DIY Canare 4S11 Star Quad Speaker Cables Soon to be moving to Mogami. I have the Drok in a custom built enclosure with a C14 socket for power in, high power toggle switch, 2, 5.5x2.5 dc out sockets for the amps, and one USB 2.0 out. I have an insanely expensive Starlight 8 USB C to C for my Laptop source to connect to the Schiit Hel2.
Basically taking Randy's advice and walking up he upgrade path over time. The A07 is one of his best recommendations ever. Once you start on a path like he suggests... You can upgrade this along the way. I started small and worked my way up that path and now my system sounds crazy good. Almost too good for the price point. All thanks to Randy. Some redditers and audiophile snobs turn their nose... But he points you in good directions. I for one, am thankful. Thanks Again Randy.
Just bought a pair of DBR62s and am completely blown away. Honestly wish I maybe had waited for the ES41s to just get me started and work my way up.
I just discovered your channel recently! I immediately went to your channel and looked for a video on visualizers, but didn't find one. I would love to see a video of you reviewing inexpensive visualizers and see which ones you would recommend / stay away from. I know the visual aspect of it is largely subjective, but there's still factors to consider, such as:
- How accurate the visualization is
- build quality
- potential noise introduced into the system (depending on how it captures the audio)
- price
- connectivity
- settings / features
Great video Randy it's almost a rule of thumb to use warm sounding speakers with class D amps
I have some 8 track tapes 1 that I played to it would not work anymore was Breakfast in America by Super Tramp and there were more. I am old enough to remember riding around in a black Chevy Van listing to 8 tracks. Rock On Brothers
Hey Randy,
Hope you are well… just wanted to thank you for recommending the genuine apple lightning to jack adapter. Makes such a difference! I had a knockoff and it was basically useless, it had a hum and sometimes it would start dialling random numbers from my phone. Now that I’ve got the real deal, I can listen to music properly everywhere I go!
This video encouraged me to get started in HiFi...I've got the Sony SSCS5 speakers...will the Fosi BT30D power my Sony's? I hear different opinions where some say yes, and some say no...whatever I have that and the Q4 for sale.
I'm always looking for ways to improve performance (that's one of the fun things about this hobby) and I love a bargain. My greatest satisfaction is getting awesome sound out of something others overlooked.
Yes sir! Great video! I already have the STRDH190 and Sony SSCS5 speakers with the Wiim streamer and a Fiio DAC (has better sound in my opinion than the DAC in the Wiim) Paid about $350 for everything total after looking for some good deals. Very, very happy with all the features, inputs and sound. By the way, the Sony receiver does have a remote.
Awesome. I bet it’s great
Outstanding as always Randy! Thank you very much for looking out for us budget conscious audiophiles. This was a great topic and it got me thinking about my budget guest bedroom system. It's an SMSL SA300 with JBL Stage A130's. It comes in at $338 and it sounds great. Keep up the great work.
Scored a Sony STR-DH190 for about $140. It's a great receiver for PC audio. A Schitt Modi 3E DAC and a couple of Emotiva B1+ speakers combine for some really good sound.
My favorite frequency is 60hz. Thank you so much for using it as background the whole video! Was it generated by the Sith Audio 60hz tone generator? I hope so!!!!
Couldn’t you tell? Was the 60hz pristine and erudite or did it sound like it was coming from the back end of a Dodge Magnum?
I combined an Aiyima T9 ($130 direct) with a Jamo 807 ($190 now 239). Great value
I run the Sony STR-DH190 with a pair of Klipsch RP-150ms and two Polk audio psw-10 subs for my living room setup. The amp pairs well with the Klipsch for a neutral sound. Bought everything used, grand total of $350 for everything. Yes the str comes with a remote
Sounds like a great set up
How do you have two subs hooked up to that receiver along with your speakers? I thought the DH190 only had enough for an A and B channel?
@@Ratchet98 The A output has a left and right channel as well as the B output. You could run two pairs of speakers off of this amp if you wanted. Even if it only had one pair of outputs you could run these subs by running a wire from the speaker to the sub hi-level input, they have built in amps in the sub all they need is the signal
It must be a great sounding system but do not equate neutrality to that of your particular system. One man's dull is another man's bright.
@@AbsoluteFidelity haha believe me I’ve heard bright, this isn’t it. I like everything but the subs are pretty weak, I want to upgrade those
Off my home computer I am running a Fosi BT20A amp into a set of Sony SS-CS5 speakers that have had their crossovers modified by me. This baby is cheap and very lovely sounding! You'll just have to trust me on that. Those Sony speakers are a real steal if you know what to do at the crossover to fix the miss-equalization in their design.
Great combo's all around. I was lucky enough to grab the Ayima T9, while it was in-stock, with SSCS5's. It's also a setup that looks pretty good sitting on the living room bookshelf with the tubes lit and the VU bouncing (if you keep the grills on the Sony's). I've have a couple non-gear people stare at and ask about the T9.
Hi
Do you think the t9 is enough for the Sony sscs5?
@@rockdriguez80 I've never found the Sony's hard to drive, but there's plenty of power. The Ayima claims 100 watts and it comes with a 24v 4.5 amp power supply.
Do you have that issue with the amp turning off after a few seconds with no sound from the input? And does only happen with the bluetooth input?
Can we just take a second to congratulate CheapAudioMan on consistently having the best thumbnails in the game? Living legend.
STRDH190 has an impedance setting : press "amp menu" and you can select 6 ohms or 8 ohms. I own two of these. One with Elac Debut 6.2 (6ohms) and a subwoofer and it is fine. The other with big Polk Signature S60 (8ohms). .. and I use Bluethoot to connect with the TV (it sounds cleaner than it does with RCA wires).
Thanks!
Thanks so much for supporting the channel!
A couple of years ago (for my 50th birthday) I bought myself the Sony STRDH190 and the Micca RB42 speakers. Some of the BEST MONEY I've EVER spent :D No dac (maybe I screwed up?) but I can stream on it from my iPhone no problem, so...???( I added a UTurn turntable to it later. GENIUS.)
Great video, Randy. Your a star in Scotland. Well in my house, anyway. I've got a pair of Mordaunt Short M20s. Interesting Speakers with interesting specs from 41hz? Up. Running classic Teac amps. My fav speakers are my Polk S20's love the bass response. Cheery
Surely you mean Cheerybye ?
I’ve got the MS20, Triangle Br02 and JBL Studio 240, for medium rooms the MS20 is amazing and probably the most laid back and musical.
I just received a pair of Sony SS-CS5 bookshelf speakers for my birthday, early present, about a week ago. These replace my battered but awesome sounding 25-year-old Optimus PRO-LX7 speakers. The Sony's have a bit more treble, albeit a lot less bass than the Optimus speakers. Even my fiancee noticed this, so a couple days later she surprised me with the Sony SA-CS9 powered subwoofer. Now the setup sounds complete. The bookshelf speakers are powered by a Douk Audio M1 Pro amp.
Nice. You have a keeper!
@@cheapaudioman You bet! My ex-wife would have never done such a thing.
Great video as always Randy. Great to actually see these 3 speakers together side by side so i can get an accurate picture of their size and footprint. Makes me very glad I chose the Miccas since i'm pretty sure i'm getting the same or similar performance for the size and they take up very little space. I use them under my bedroom tv on a 3 foot wide dresser with a yamaha av receiver in between and i don't need a sub. Fantastic little speakers!
Nice. I’m going to redo a video on them. I need to reacquaint my self with them
I like these systems with the sub out. Seems like these little speakers need a sub to make me happy.
My Nakamichi Dragon plays those cassette tapes like a boss, makes em sound real good. Better than hi-res digital. I am a lifetime member of the ACTO.
My Komodo Dragon just eats those tapes up.
Awesome video Randy! I love the thumbnail, lol. Also, was that a Howard Dean sample? HAHAHA!
I started off with the Sony 190 and a pair of Sony SSCS5's. It was a great way to start but have since upgraded. I'm keeping it around for a backup or a possible secondary setup.
Very nice assortment. For $375, I went with a BasX A400 on sale for $300 and a pair of used $75 Marantz SP1515 (3-way 15" woofer). For $150, I got the A07 and used $75 Klipsch Mirage OM-9 Omni towers ( dual 6 1/2"). Great NEW speakers are currently over $2000. Prices should be falling soon due to stagflation.
Dayton HTA100BT and some JamoS803 has been shockingly good for me. You sold me on the Jamo and I'm glad you did. I've owned a large amount of bookshelf and studio monitors and really like sound stage and these Jamo's don't disappoint. I would love to hear your thoughts on the Dayton.
After your review of the Fosi DA-2120C I purchased and place in my reference system Gustard X-26 pro DAC and high end open baffle alnico/neodymium speakers and
powered sub MAGICAL 🧙♂️🥰music
I've had the sony str-dh190 for about 2-3 years and it's been great I do use 4ohm speakers on them and it does fine I got it when it was 150 I can't believe that it's $200 now that's crazy
Great system options for an inexpensive ASMACC certified way to enjoy music. I personally don't buy anything that isn't ASMACC certified, it's the only way to know it is truly audiophile. It's the UL listing of the audio world.
Agreed, John. It really needs to be certified
I'm running my Sony cs5 above 200hz, with a midbass module below that. With minidsp processor. Sounds wonderful.
Got that sony 190 with the klipsh 6000 towers and bsr vintage equalizer this combo is ridiculous..and it knocks the walls down...
Great episode Randy.
You rock!
Randy, any thoughts on doing a video for beginner tips to setting up said system with respect to finding optimal speaker placement? You reference a lot of test tracks throughout your reviews, but what's your order of operations when you get new gear in to make sure everythings delivering the best possible? When do you know you've got IT?
Cheers
Get an old LG 3 or Note 9 and install Neutron Player Trial. That is a great DAC and player on the cheap. There are so many audio settings you can adjust. I run that now
Neutron Player has an EQ built in you cannot beat it
The key is to get a USB to RCA output for you phone
Hey I'm no hipster and I love cassettes. Primarily because I'm good at recording them so they don't sound like garbage. And furthermore I don't accept type zeros. Instead I use them as ashtrays and door stoppers.
Love your content! Even though I'm hearing 60Hz hum throughout your video.
I've got the sony and a pair klipsch r51m's a uturn costume with mp-110 and a sony dvp-nc800h and it sounds great. I'm in it for just under $900 and I'm very happy.
Hugely helpful hivalue hifi hints!
A point of possible confusion for some;
Chip amps btw are not necessarily class D. The texas instruments LM3886 is a well-used AB amp chip which I think the akitika uses. There is the infamous 'gaincard' I think started it all off - much copied in diy hence 'gainclone'. Neurochrome audio also does some great kits based on this tech. I am not a tech myself, so the above could be subject to correction/qualification.
@Douglas Blake Thank you for expanding on this.
I just bought a sony STRDH190 receiver and got it a few days ago. I had the Sony SSCS5 speakers and when I started listening to my music through them, it sounded great. Way better than my old Sony one that was like 15 years old. The blue tooth like you said, sounded great running my amazon music streaming through it. Do I need a DAC (I have one and just got it yesterday on your recommendation, the Prozor 192 khz) for my digital music, or is it ok as is?
Will you be reviewing the performance of your Aiyama A07 with the 48V power supply? I’m considering upgrading by doing this too. Thanks! Another great episode!
Wow! Gutsy move Randy! I love it! It almost goes without saying that you and I agree about "audiophile" BS. It also almost goes without saying that I want to pop some popcorn and wait for the attacks from audiophiles. Not that I wish that on anyone, but proclaiming these items to be "audiophile" even if they really are will trigger the audiophiles (including a few reviewers), out there who think that it is not audiophile unless it costs $10,000 and is approved by them or they own the same piece (which changes weekly) and that is why I always used to tell folks not to pay any attention to that stuff.
What gear to I define as "audiophile"? None and almost all gear! None: I don't believe in the label of "audiophile". Almost all: Does it make sound that is pleasing and satisfying to you? Then it is audiophile by original definition!
The one exception in this list though I must admit would be the Sony STRDH190. I don't know about their speakers, so I can't comment on those, but Sony receivers, amps, sources, etc. are lousy. I have had several Sony products over the years and none of them have been any good. (That said though, when it comes to TVs, Sony sits equally on top with LG and formally Samsung). To this day I have a Sony BR player that is only a few months old and works "most of the time", but is very frustrating to use other times. If it goes into wait state, you have to unplug it and maybe pop the hood and rework the components to get it back to being functional. Sony designs their stuff to be this way. They want you to buy a new unit at the first glitch that they do not mention in the manual. For about $10 to $30 more, I can come up with better receivers than anything Sony puts out. Of course so can you though because you did the good deed saying that this list is not the end all, just 4 examples.
So go for it Randy...Bring back the term "audiophile" to it's original meaning!
I only hope that anyone who purchases on your recommendations is not involved in any "audio forums" or clubs or anything unless they know how stand firm and hold their ground to ward off the attacks from the audiophile snobs who are legion out there. My advice: The best way to do that is to ignore them and enjoy what you have. You also may want to laugh at them as well when you realize that you still have a bank account and are satisfied with your choices and many of them don't and are forever chasing mythical creatures unhappily.
yeah. audiophile is anything that you want it to be. I like to stir things up a bit. I'm sure they're stuff is good if not great. but everyone should be able to enjoy great sound regardless of their budget and someone needs to talk about pairing up affordable gear
Indeed. Audiophile is anything which plays music well, such that those of us who care how their music sounds can appreciate and enjoy it.
I think you are being a bit hard on Sony, however. They must have hurt you deeply. They do a great line in noise cancelling headphones and my Sony 4K Blu-ray player works just fine.
@@cheapaudioman Absolutely! (And also since I am not doing it now and I was written media, not TH-cam, which is far more popular these days. I felt like I was the only one at the time....I may have well been).
@@jimfarrell4635 Well, I don't know about "hurt me deeply" and I think I'm pretty fair about Sony. I just got frustrated with the built-in, unpublished problems over several Sony products. As for the BR player, one should not have to to major surgery to recover from a wait state when the unit powers itself off. Other makes of BR players one simply hits the power button again to wake it up. Not Sony though. I have the Sony UBP X-700. 1) it is super slow, 2) if it powers off for wait state, I have to unplug it and do a complete reset to get it to power up again. I'm thinking of going back to my old Denon high-end DVD/SACD player, which was also multi-regional. Over the years I had many audio products from Sony that made me sour. Their TVs are great, but over-priced. I think that is the only product they do well it seems, but I have not heard their speakers.
This is not uncommon though for big corporations like Sony. I've seen this with more focused companies as well for different reasons besides getting into to many different products. Example: Paradigm - once one of the best speaker makes ever. They decided to kill their best lines to let some new young designer have his way and now their best line up is simply dreadful compared to what was before (all tilted up beyond human tolerance, etc). Same thing with McIntosh, back in the day, their gear were built like tanks and sounded fantastic. Today's McIntosh gear is riddled with problems from cheap components that fail within the first two years and the stuff doesn't even sound good, but they sell based on the name now days with stupid prices to match. I like the looks of McIntosh a lot, but the rest of it is so unreliable. It is sad where some companies have gone over the years.
Hey Randy thanks for your videos!
Have you got experience with Aiyima T10?
Sansui AU 717 amp. 4 leak sandwich 600 speakers. Garrard 401 turntable. Job done
The term ‘Rolling” opamps, is borrowed from the tube rollers. To remove a vacuum tube, you gently rotate the tube in a circular motion while lifting up/ roll the tube, to remove one to replace with another.
XTZ Spirit 4 finally got around to getting a pair, WOW £325 plus shipping .
I need a power amp I will be ordering one from xtz .
This speaker made my jaw drop .
All I can say is it's worth ordering a pair, they sing ......
I still have the nobsound amp like £60 is a great little amp .
thanks for posting. going to order the aiyima+a07 and upgrade the psu see if it can drive my Fluance
HFF
I was going to order it too at some point. I want to compare it to my old / at this point ancient budget Denon AVR. I also have an old sub with a dead amplifier that the 07 could power, so it seems like a no brainer. I have a Modi 3+ DAC, and the Wiim mini already.
Not having a DAC is no problem for me with that Sony receiver since I prefer an external DAC anyway. Thank you for the video.
Great videos. I watched several so far. I subscribed right away :)
Going back to your roots. Finally!
9:43 "Roll" is short for "Roll your own". It's popular with a lot of DIY-oriented computer geeks, e.g. "I didn't want to buy that NAS so I rolled my own".
Great Monday morning eye opener! It really is remarkable how inexpensively you can get started in this hobby for..and have it sound good! Again... you must be the hardest working guy in HiFi!
Thanks, Stephen. I try
I just bought a pair of JBL E30 (Northbridge E Series) speakers used for $40 and a Yamaha receiver for $15, at Goodwill, best $55 spent.
Slight correction - a Class D amp design is when the output device(s) are "switched on" during operation only when there is a signal, and a switching/PWM (pulse width modulation) power supply is used. You're correct that many / most of Class D amps use chips for the output device(s), but there are also chip amps that are Class A/B - like the wonderful AkitikA GT-102 Z4, for example.
So, it is their switching power supply and the mode they use to power the output device(s) that makes them Class D.
Class D can have linear supply with transformer and rectifier bridge. It's the PWM output that makes it class D. Most class D amps use SMPS because they require single rail voltage and SMPS'es are cheaper
@@thienan567 Okay, and I am assuming that after a linear power supply, there is a PWM circuit that drives the output?
A basic question I have is how the low pass filtering is done on Class D designs? The PWM is efficient, but it it is essentially noise, and has to be removed, right?
@Douglas Blake Thanks for the specifics.
I am assuming that it is possible to use a switching power supply on a Class A/B amp? But as far as I have seen, this is rare? So, that is why I was assuming that the switching power supply indicates Class D.
@Douglas Blake Thanks again!
@@NeilBlanchard Right, like what Douglas Blake stated below, there is an LC low pass filter to remove PWM switching noise
Hey cheapaudioman, love your content and look forward to learning more & more about smaller audio companies out there. My question is I have a fluance turntable and and klipsch R 51PM's which sounds great but just lacking a little bass. Would you suggest a subwoofer or a class d amp with bass and treble controls?
Thanks in advance.
aiyima d03 has tone controls as well as the Fosi audio bt20a. you'd need passive speakers with that though
Thanks for responding. I have another question, how about a preamp with bass & treble controls being I have powered speakers. If not I guess a subwoofer will be my best bet. If so any subs you recommend under $200 that would go well with these speakers. Thanks again and don't forget to have a cup of coffee LOL
Stay cool buddy.
Nice simple set ups for entry level hi-fi. All of these are great desktop systems though the Sony's are a little large for that application. Adding a low cost powered subwoofer is really going to bring these systems to life such as the Polk PSW10 or a Monoprice SW-10. For truly affordable amplification, check the thrift shops. I found a capable Onkyo 5.1 surround receiver with pre-outs on all channels for $25! There was also a viable Sony receiver for the same price.
Great find
Love your videos, was going to buy a 2.1 Costco Klipsch set up for my desktop before I found you. I just grabbed the KEF 150's to use in a 2.1 setup and am wondering what I should pair them with. I have about $250 to spend not including a sub. I was thinking I was going to do the Aiyma A07, then I went to the A08 and now I am thinking T9 or the D03.
Hi Randy, still loving your videos man! Would really like it if you could review some wisa wireless speaker systems.
Way to go bro...for sure thinking is good for the soul...😃😎
VERY helpful video! Thank You!
Randy, I really like your videos and your sarcastic humor, but please post a link to the ACTO. I can't find it anywhere on the web. This is very frustrating to someone interested in obsessing about new audiophile topics.
Nice list of systems for Three Fifty, or in NY lingo Three Fiddy.
Ha.
Hey Randy. I've been watching your channel a couple of weeks and am watching some old ones. I found an error......
The Loxjie A30 DOES have a coaxial input that is shared with the right channel rca input. So you can't connect a coaxial source and a line in at the same time.
From the Amazon listing......
LOXJIE A30 Desktop Stereo HiFi Audio Power Amplifier & Headphone Amplifier, Infineon's MA12070 Chip Class D Amp, ES9023 DAC Chip, USB/Optical/Coaxial/RCA/Bluetooth 5.0 Input (with Remote Control)
Funnily enough I actually bought that Sony unit for a friend for them to start playing their vinyl collection instead of just collecting them, and they love the way it sounds as well as the features it has, tbf they've only ever used built-in speakers of a TV or their headphones with their PC, so anything is going to sound amazing, but I wanted the first time they heard vinyl to blow them away and that's exactly what happened with that Sony unit.
Better than the suitcase player that their significant other had planned on getting, yeah it would only have been £50 compared to the approx £380 the set up they have now cost, but I knew they'd hate it if that was their first experience of vinyl.
I recommended they pair their system with a set of Wharfedale diamond 9.1's and while I'm sure there's better options out there, they don't really have money to just switch out components and if it brings them joy then that's all I or they care about.
I would have said to get a pair of diamond 220's, but the price had shot up to 2.5x what I paid.
It is 1am and I just put this on pause and went downstairs to get a cup of coffee and my wife saw me in the kitchen and said are you watching that audio guy again go to sleep.
Hi Randy, there's a little humming noise going on picked up by your microphone while you're speaking, perhaps EMI or RF noise or grounding problem.
Hi from Kenosha Wisconsin. I have been watching you to help make a decision on a new system. Here is what I just purchased. Fluance RT85 Blue paired with a Denon PMA 600 NE. All due by the end of the week. Before I buy new speakers what I planning to try them with my Bose 301III. not sure how they will fit into the new system. Any suggestions for speakers with this new system.
I listen to 50 thru 70 rock but also like Spyro Gyra as well. Back in the day I had a Harman Kardon system (1980is) Keep up the great information!
Hello, I hope you can review Tannoy Gold 5 in future !! Thank you!!
Sure thing!
Great stuff for the price. Thanks for the information.
Am still waiting for my SSCS5 ordered from Best Buy @88usd/pair, quite a long time to reach this other side of the globe 😬. Will be driving it with Aiyima A08 per your reco 💪🏽
Fingers crossed!
Love the video but the A30 dose have a coaxial digital input through one of the RCA as I use it at home
cool. I missed that. I've never used the coaxial personally
Great info. as always. I'm using the A07, with the RB42's & a Modi 3e dac, about same price range, ps. I sue miss a remote though. In your opinion does the T8 have similar DAC, if so I woud change to that, I really like my sound signature now
You are a bargain hunting legend. How’s those Lintons sound with movies? Keep the great work.
I love the lintons. You'd need a center channel. the dialogue isn't as crisp as a lot of speakers purpose built for that but as fronts they're great. if you use them without a center there will be a little bit of a smoothness in the vocals
best cheap audiophile system is my kitchen setup: Kenwood KA-3700 (70ies) + Panasonic wooden speakers from a 2002 micro machine + BASF D-6200 Hifi Tuner B sitting on to'p of a 90ies wooden kitchen board --> no details, amazing fun to listen 6 hours/day. Costed me in 2006: 7 + ? + 5 USD
You said that the Aiyima D03 has a "digital optical converter"... 😁👍
A year ago so this may get lost but I hear that the all in ones amplify digitally then convert to analog last. If connecting a turntable is it converted to digital then back again? If so is the analog sound lost somewhere?? Trying to make the simplest set up for turntable and tv.
Love the thumbnail.
Don’t you forget about me🎶