These blind tests takes lots of effort and time for me and my guests. Please don't forget to click the like button on the video if you enjoyed it ! All the links are in the descriptions as well as below. Note that GR Research price increase starts Aug 1st. *Price Before*: GR Research XLS Encore Finished Pair with all the upgrades: $1,493 GR Research XLS Encore KIT: $777 *Price as of Aug 1st 2022* GR Research XLS Encore Finished Pair with all the upgrades: $1,670 GR Research XLS Encore KIT: $935 Non-Affiliated Purchase Links (note that GR Research Price Increase Starts as of Aug 1st) : CSS Audio 1TDx (Finished): www.css-audio.com/online-store/CSS-Criton-1TD-X-Fully-Finished-Pair-p115270078 CSS Audio 1TDx KIT: www.css-audio.com/online-store/CSS-Criton-1TD-X-Kit-Pair-p221163830 GR research XLS Encore (Finished): gr-research.com/product/xls-encore/ GR research XLS Encore KIT (No cabinet): gr-research.com/product/x-ls-flatpack-pair/ GR research XLS Ecnore Flatpack Cabinet: gr-research.com/product/x-ls-flatpack-pair/ Test Gear: Innuos zen mini mk2 DAC/Streamer Denafrips Hades Pre-amp Starke Audio Fierra Amp. Related videos: Full length blind test: th-cam.com/video/Ivi6rKWe1mI/w-d-xo.html CSS Audio 1TDX: th-cam.com/video/MbksuZdrdV8/w-d-xo.html CSS Audio 1TDX VS Sonus Faber Electa Amator III: th-cam.com/video/_G96tJiDVVI/w-d-xo.html GR Research XLS Encore VS Sonus Faber Electa Amator III: th-cam.com/video/fcf2tYySyAY/w-d-xo.html GR Research XLS Encore First impressions: th-cam.com/video/qz7hY2J3Blw/w-d-xo.html
Hey Jay, these are the two on the top of my shortlist. I was leaning the 1TD-X with standard crossover before but with GR's price increase it makes the CSS a more obvious choice for me. My question is do you think there are any sub $1000 integrated stereo amps around that would work well with the 1TD-X or is that selling them short? My goal is a decent set up for music but also as a soundbar replacement for the TV. I'm yet to hear a sound bar that I like so my goal was to keep the total budget not too much higher than the higher end sound bars.
I've owned the two speakers (CSS Audio 1TDx and GR Research XLS Encore), they are both assembled in Canada and U.S. Both using their regular parts (not upgraded), and after months of using it, there's no doubt in my mind that GR Research is superior. Maybe not in all aspects of the sound spectrum, but it's clear when it comes to bass extension, and layers of sound, GR Research is distinctly better. And the kicker is, GR Research is cheaper. BTW, i played them across 3 different systems, 3 different preamps, 3 different power amps, all using CD players (not streaming). Of course it could be due to fact that GR Research is better suited to my room, and other factors such as cables etc etc. But there is no doubt in my mind, I would choose GR Research every single time. Jay has taken an tedious effort to do this, so the love goes to him. But I think he is biased against Danny for his "elitist" comments and he is unwilling to admit sincerely that GR Research is better. So human.
I just built the CSS Torri kit. They are spooky good in my living room. I’m no expert or audiophile, just an average guy. Everyone I’ve played these things for have been blown away! It’s crazy hearing sounds move around the room ect. I had a track playing the other day that had sounds coming from behind me. Every time I listen, I can’t believe my ears.
I own the same XLS Encore configuration you are listening to, and I agree that about 4-5ft from the front wall is ideal. In my living room that makes it nearfield listening, but I'm OK with it. It took me a couple of hours to find the best listening position when I first got them, using measuring tape and markers on the floor, to gradually move them around and listening carefully. When you hit the sweet spot it makes a huge difference in the presentation. This is true for all speakers I have tried, that spending a lot of time to find the best speaker placement is fundamental and critical to tap into each speaker pair's best performance, and costs nothing but a little bit of time. Not doing this exercise leaves a LOT of performance on the table, actually wasted, so I'm glad you spent so much time on it. Thanks for a super interesting video! I really enjoyed it and learned something about both speakers (and amp matching).
So for those living in Texas…the full current cost for the XL-S is $1112 shipped with tax. The CSS is NOW with 5% preorder is $1267 delivered WITH the upgraded crossover. I’ve followed Danny a good while and I’m thinking that soundstage and imaging will be audibly enhanced with the CSS crossover upgrade which would probably take away that advantage from the GR pair. So for $100 more you will get better bass and a speaker that performs better in a more normal placement (not 4-5’ from the wall)
XLS-Encores need 5 feet away from the wall? How many people realistically are going to do that? Might as well get Magnepans if you can accommodate that distance from the wall.
Thanks for a great comparison! You could have mentioned the more challenging assembly design of the GR Encores. My understanding is that they don’t have the beginner-friendly 3d printed circuit board with letters to match up, and the GR cabinet is more basic and requires a bit more clamping and bracing to glue up. Since this is DIY, making it ‘easy’ is an advantage for many audiophiles that have never tried a DIY kit before. I am sticking with my SUPERIOR Critons lol. They are only 1.5 ft away and sound excellent to my tastes! Thanks for making this video Jay, and for taking Danny’s elitism seriously. Continue the great work in educating your viewers!
Excellent review, Jay. I appreciate the time and effort you put in trying to make this a fair comparison. I don’t understand why so many people feel there needs to be a “best”, nearly all comparisons between products comes down to personal preferences of the individual.
Excellent ... It "sounds" to me that both speakers came out winners ... both CSS and GR Research have to be happy with your findings and rather well articulated descriptions of such.
For a closer price comparison. The GR NX-studios base model is $2800. That’s only a $450 increase from the css. I don’t think it would even be a close race in performance. Great review though. You can feel it’s truly honest.
Man I thought this was a great video for a few reasons. The main reason is I feel it really proved that when you have a couple of equally well made speakers that it all comes down to preferences and compromises, sometimes it's not about Winners and Losers. Everyone is different, likes different things, and hears different things. Also things like amps and sometimes Dacs can change the perception of speakers. Just the other day in my own home I pulled out an old cheaper amp (in price) cause I had bought a new Dac/preamp somewhat recently and wanted to see how it paired..i found that the more expensive amp I had been using all of a sudden sounded very compressed when compared to the cheaper one, it was very eye opening and a little depressing lol. Again, this was a great video, I'm glad you brought someone else in and did it the way you did. Good stuff 👍..and like most other people mentioned, 5 feet is a bit much..although it could vary from home to home I'm sure.
Great talk, equipment matching is so important and hard for most without showrooms. Your room has a mayor factor in sound, even before treatment that is a bandaid , we all need a bandaid from time to time, sound healing 🤣 . What I liked in a speaker when I was 25 is different than now, not completely , but I go for tone and a speaker that sounds good with different music. Boys and girls, placement takes some time and learned skill, but is worth it, most people do not do it 😞. Before you try to buy your way to better sound, learn about the room and placement, after go play with equipment and cables. Have fun and go see live music. ❤️
Thank you for another fun comparison! If we were to "perfectly" or "ideally" test these speakers, then we will be able to come up with a sound measurement for that specific testing equipment setup. What's cool, but annoying, about this hobby is that no one set of ears, speaker environment, listening position, climate, preference of music are going to be the same for us to judge speakers! It's one of those things that people will only find what they love by trying many, many equipment of all types. I'm glad Jay's doing this for our entertainment. I just wish I was there to hang out! haha
While Danny recommends 5’ from the front wall for best performance, the Encore speakers will still sound very good in normal conditions. And setting them closer to the wall will bring up the bass level a bit. If you want more bass from the X-LS then get the tower version: X-SLS. Same drivers and crossover but in a more optimized air space.
Appreciate the video ;) 5 ft out seems like alot that 90% of people would not do, but I understand trying his method. Maybe ideal distance and amp for both (approx similar budget) and I wouldn't mind including standard and improved cross over to see if the benefits of the gr research would be matched by the upgraded crossover, plus the benefits of the citons creating a better overall package. Keep up the great work and I really like this series of videos - thumbs up
How did they compare on dynamics, both at your chosen volume level, as well as at high volume levels? That’s an important element of speaker performance that often gets overlooked.
This was enjoyable for sure. You both brought up some very good points. The discussions below, echo those points. The genre of the music tends to "temper" the "feel". Back in the early 80;s, when I sold audio gear @ Franklin Music in Atlanta, the first question I always asked, was what kind of music do you listen to ? This was back in the day, when the JBL L100 Century, was "THE" monitor speaker. If the person said "Tone-Loc", then I would steer them to the BIC side of things. If they said "Gary Wright" or "Beach Boys" it would probably be Pioneer HPM100, which was an attempt to make a more modest JBL L100 clone. If they said Hard Rock", and money was not a problem, then I would hit for the L100's or L200's. BIC was a "thumper" speaker -- massive bass, but pretty muddy, everywhere else. To each his own, and I sold some of all of them. Yes, speakers ARE a very personal thing. Once again, a good time for me. Thanks ! Rip
Thank you Jay. This type of testing with the commentary you are providing on the test methods helps your audience understand the characters of these two popular kits. Don't worry about any hate, just keep em coming.
Good video, both are killer for the money it seems, I've had the maxxed encores, and they were incredible, beat our my ls50 and new metas and the LS3/5a, I didn't see needing to have them 5 feet out, that seemed over the top so don't worry, they'll perform just fine 2 feet off the wall, they were all tested in the same room 18-22 inches off the wall, slight toe, and I couldn't complain about anything on the encore.
Thanks for the comparison Jay. It appears you two had a great time listening to music, so that makes it all worth while. What I learned from this video is both speakers are great at their price point and people select based upon their personal likes and dislikes. I happen to own GR Research Encores and couldn't be happier with them. I built my set and covered the exterior of the MDF cabinet with 3/16" Tigerwood for a spectacular looking speaker. A DIY kit is not for everyone but it is nice to have the option. Especially when these two kits sound so good for the price. I really enjoy your videos and thanks for taking the time to share. 👍
Damn Jay, that first pic of your friend look like he was in a hostage situation lol. Also gotta give you props again, yiu reaching out to Danny after everything has really made him soften up and be more open to all of you and understand we all ate in this together, even we disagree on some things. Good to see youbstuxk by the Starke amp after many audiophiles (and Amin from ASR) got on them for the fudgee performace numbers of that amp.
Amir is amir. He will shit on everything but smsl and topping. XD jokes aside, I think everyone can get along if they just put their ego aside. Different opinons are good - just like this video... it just needs to be civil and respectful
@@Jayiyagi Regardless how you feel about Amir, those results for the Starke Sound AD4.320 were measured from the APx555 so they are objective measurements. The fact is Starke lied about their rated power. Audioholics also reported their sample with lower performance than rated. I feel like this should be mentioned in your review of their products if you want to be transparent in your reviews for your subscribers.
It makes perfect sense to me, ppl like Dany in his age doesnt hear high frequencies as well. So the bass doesnt have to be as present. Highs and bass work in harmony, more highs equal less bass and also oposite is true. My father(much older guy) when listening to my system always says it's way too much bass.
@@charlesclifton1006 they are far better than I was expecting, but I did my research. I chose them over REL 1205s. This is my desktop system. System 2, which I seem to be using the most. The subwoofers are absolutely top notch, do everything you could want. A steal. They replaced a pair of Emotiva S8, which cost the same, and they wipe the floor with those in my setup. I finally have real sounding drums with real authority. And real lows below 30.
@@Audfile Interesting that you chose them over the RELs and as far as base-management I'll do further research. I am impressed that you use the 1TDXs in a near field setting. I am keenly interested in building these with the up-graded cross-overs but I think I would prefer to use the GR Research "tube connectors". Anyways, I think we are both on the same page as far as desk-top sound quality is concerned.
I bought a pair (XLS Encores) and yet to finish soldering and connecting the speaker wires. I have enlisted my friend to help with this he suggested we use some cables he use with the high end speakers he work on at his speaker company we'll experiment with both. Thanks for the series of videos its been entertaining and educational.
Hi Jay, great stuff, but I believe that you should have tested CSS Audio kit with upgraded crossover. This way you would compared apples with apples. Both kits with upgraded crossovers. We're talking about comparing similar quality products even if they were off by a few hundred dollars. Both companies are praising using better crossover components for better sound quality, so I don't understand your decision based just on final price. All the best.
prices came out the same. price points matter for me anyway. add 400$ to a 900$ speaker and thats a new ball game. gr makes kits that sell for more so he could have used one of those kits...
@@MrDannydjmix2 As a matter of fact they make the XLS encore in a tower version which gives you added base of course then you are comparing a floor stander to a bookshelf but either way that would be interesting
I like your A/B tests. They are helpful. And, maybe next time do a different type of test. Do everything you can to help the GR to shine, via spacing upgrades etc (if available). Even pick the best music for that speaker. And do the same for the CSS. Don’t worry about the cost difference. Make them both shine And then see which one makes you feel better.
Appreciate the effort to make them comparable, but the GR’s got: More favorable placement, Amp more suited to them, music choices more suited to them, and the max upgrade kit. I’m guessing if the css speakers had all of these in their favor instead, they would blow the GR’s out of the water. Add in the css’s easier assembly of the enclosure and crossover kit with a better looking finished product, I’m going to build the css audio speakers with the best upgrades available.
Nice video comparison. There are many factors as to why the imaging in depth and width would be different between these 2 models. Not including the part’s quality. Cabinet construction with regard to speaker placement on the baffle, baffle width, square corners versus rounded, time domain due to spacing of drivers just to name a few. Those would be the areas I would address and change in regard to the css to improve its imaging capabilities.
The question which is better? wasn't really answered it sounds like they're both really good sounding speakers, Jay liked CSS and Nova? liked the GR Research surprised they both overwhelmingly chose their favorite. The one thing Jay pointed out that I found disappointing was how far out the GR Research have should be from the back wall for optimal sound. Thanks to Jay for doing this head to head on these 2 speakers so quickly, I was pretty much sold on the GR Research but now the CSS sounds like a better choice (for me).
Thank you so much for doing this. This is a first on TH-cam truly comparing these two. I appreciate the work that went into this and love that you brought your friend in to hash this out.
I haven't seen anyone mention this specifically but better caps typically opens the Soundstage (despite the nay sayers 😆). It true. Both seem like a killer way to go. I saw several people mention comparing the upgraded kit from css criton and hopefully someone will do this or at least offer a pair for Jay to test. I wish someone would do a video of the parts express Solstice. I would imagine it may possibly be better or as good as these for the same cost. The Morel driver cost more than the kit
No, you do not mean NAYSAYERS, you mean YOU HAVE ZERO PROOF they do anything. You are putting your beliefs onto those, that simply say you can not back up any of what you say. It is up to YOU, making the claim, to SHOW OR PROVE, what you say is true. Instead of calling people naysayers, why not question whether what you "Think you hear" is measurable, or even if you could tell in a blind test.?? The burden is on YOU!
I agree about the effects of better caps, resistors and cleaner wiring. I upgraded some Minimus 7 speakers that I built Xovers for using cheap Dayton parts to their premium parts and the soundstage/micro details really opened up. Using cheaper vs expensive Xover parts of the same value cleans up the sound vs changes it. Measuring this aspect of sound quality would be very difficult I’d imagine on a test tone but relatively easy to hear for someone who can. You “naysayer” rely on others peoples measurements vs us “non naysayers” who speak from our own listening experiences. I don’t care if you don’t believe me and it’s ok for you to think I’m wrong. What I really wish is for all of you who rely solely on measurements to understand that they’re really good starting points but not the end all. They could be but I’m guessing that speaker placement can transform your system to another level. I challenge anyone reading this to raise their speakers by 5” or so and tell me whether you hear a difference? And that’s just a taste.
Please please please for the love of God do a review of the Seas bifrost speaker it’s a kit from Maddie sound it should 100% be on your radar and I think it would be such a compelling video to compare the three of the speakers
Comparing the two fully loaded fully assembled (I gotta face it, in my studio apt, I'm not building anything), the CSS is $2,349 and the GR is $1,493. Seems fair, for about 60% more money, you get a lot more bass. Considering the placement preferences of the speakers mentioned in the video, it seems like CSS is good for a no subwoofer, place closer to the wall system. And the GR seems like you'd use the money you saved to get a subwoofer if you were serious about bass. Also it would be precluded from being too close to walls.
I you want a deeper soundsstage, add the upgrade-crossover to the Critons, that ll do it... yes, that ll make it more expensive as the Encore, but you get the richer-more-body-sound of the Critons too...
If you have a dedicated room, the speakers will be 4-5 feet from the wall. I do. But in a dedicated room you are not going to be use those little speakers. So GR Research missed the mark on that point. Sure, if you buy GR Research reference open baffle then you expect to have them 1/3 of the way into a large dedicated audio room. But these are made for life in a small apartment or stuffed onto a bookshelf. In those cases they are not going to work well.
5 ft from the wall is the norm in the audiophile world. It’s what you get in most rooms when setting up speakers using “rule of thirds” or Cardas method
It's a norm, but when you look at random audiophile systems... High number of those systems have speakers near the wall + almost no room treatment. Only small minority of users have proper listening space/room with optimal distances.
Great take on things. There is no perfect speaker for all situations or all listening environments. It really comes down to what you as the consumer likes to hear in your music, and what kind of music you like listening to. Thanks for all the work that went into doing this video. --den
Without blind test, you can hear difference. Both prices are close anyway. Price doesn't affect much how good is both speaker. In purchasing decision just run your favourite playlist and choose which sound closer to your liking. Of course, both speaker they are no way to demo in store.
@@Jayiyagi I would imagine the top of the line CSS would have blown the GRR away, so in that regard you would get a whole lot more for just a few more hundred bucks. 😃. thanks!
Its a good idea, but you can't do it because you're now listening to 2 different systems, not speakers. The only way around it is if you found that each speaker sounds best with different amps, you could test both speakers with both amps.
Nice. Feedback I can relate to. As a musician, I have a very strong sense of what many instruments are supposed to sound like. Dream Theater's "6 o'clock" starts off with a very engineered drum fill across the toms and then to a bass/snare beat. "Under a Glass Moon" has so many things I look for. Can the woofer keep up with fast double kick? Alcatrazz "Big Foot" or maybe any song from Yngwies debut solo album. Some of EVH's most iconic riffs. And thats just some of 'rock/metal' I like to sample. How does a nylon string guitar from Paco or DiMeolo sound? If the instruments dont sound real, I guess the staging doesnt matter. When you describe a pick scrape or even the flesh of the skin making string noise, you know how that sounds from SRV coming out a Super Reverb.
Thanks Jay, I must admit in my living room i pull my speakers 4ft into the room But i am moving them around 😆 How low can those CSS Audio go like In room bass 35-30hz ? Thanks Jay and friend 😆
really well done. the basic dayton x over must be well above the 'cheesy parts' Danny exposes which says a lot about css that they will not sell you crappy parts. i concur w your placement. no reason to make it easy upfront.
Good stuff! Thanks Jay. Yeah I'm thinking of a great little setup with a Bluesound Node, Schiit Vidar, and some 1TDX's. Done and done for a fun set I can build with my kids and have my daughter do a crazy custom paint job on them.
The G.R. kit sure seems worth it's price to me, I think I'd choose it after considering all here & esp' the previous vid you did on the GR vs Sonus Faber. I would guess amps with a higher damping factors will favour the G.R. better (???) with its relatively light driver & hence smaller magnet around it's vouce-coil's movement. But the most curious thing was the talk about folk accusing you could all see through the fabric fibre or look through low gaps with some magical bent-vision? well, they must be easy to fool 'by-film' people, they talk like a camera can only tell the whole truth, don't they know the power of editing or pointing it wherever wanted, tho you wanted to know your opinions in a blind test & hence no point in 'cheating' they'd be far easier ways to do if you did want to waste time & cheat for no reason I could see, the accusations are ridiculous
Guys, the fact is that both manufacturers offer fantastic value. In reality you get $10,000 speakers for one fifth the price. That is a bargain from any view
Since amplifier and room set up for the maximum performance is the limiting factor. Then take up Danny’s offer to travel to Texas and listen to GR research speakers that were properly implemented set up the right electronics right speaker placement by Danny himself. and then judge. But we know the speaker is smaller both the driver and the cabinet so right off the bat got one arm tied behind his back in a fight
Well in GR vs Sonus Faber you maybe also bottlenecked SF by going with less than great electronics. Also, did SF engineer contact you as well regarding positioning and all the other stuff? I'm just saying it's a bit of clutching atvthe straws from Danny here. Perhaps because the myth is publically broken now.
A speaker blind test shows personal preference, but a dac/cable/power amp blind test show if the products tested are actually any different. Its pretty easy to pick a speaker 9 out of 10 times in a blind test if you know what you like. In this test we see 2 winners, no one is wrong and no one is right. If someone prefers a very hot top end, they would pick a LS50 Meta with a +8db boost at 10khz every single time over an unequalized Meta. I would personally choose the Criton over the Encore due to the fact that its more analytical and revealing.
I have the Critons and "analytical" is not at all the way I would describe them. They are more warm and "musical" (I know ASR members hate that term, but you know what I mean, think more ELAC/Wharfedale/Buchardt and not KEF/Focal/Monitor Audio). And I have watched basically every review available on the Critons by Jay, Thomas & Stereo, Mark on HiFi, etc. and no one ever describes them as ultra revealing or analytical, so I highly doubt it's my room acoustics or matching components making it sound that way. Never heard the Encores.
I am considering the CSS 1TDx and the GR Research NX Studio. Have you listen to the GR Studio NX speakers and do you have a comparison opinion of them compared to the Css1TDx.?
It seems like Jay did everything he could to favor the Encores over the Criton's, 5 feet out into the room - check, amp pairing that works best with the Encores - check, bass light music (because the Criton's excel here) - check, and he still choose the Criton's. I guess this was the only way to keep Danny at GR Research form whinning like a baby!
That last sentence was childish. Speakers are trade off to fit everyone. Your personal taste rules for you. But pulling out speakers from the wall gives great sound. Close to the wall gives umpf.
Is the price you're showing for just the kit with upgrades or also including materials for the cabinets and NoRez? The upgraded kit on the GR Reasearch site currently shows to be $714.50. Did the price go down by $200 since this video was made?
Just another shining example that there is no absolutely definable better or best. There is personal preference. That personal preference will be heavily influenced by experience.
Sounds like the GR Research with a good subwoofer at about the same price for a non kit is the winner winner chicken dinner. In other words the CSS audio is hundreds more as a finished speaker-- add a sub to the GR and the bass complaints go way for similar dollars.
This is audiophile bull, anyone bothering to build a speaker would follow placement instructions for that speaker. Pick whichever amp The manufacturer believes sound best, and compare best case scenarios .
Great comparison! I’m saving up for either CSS Criton 1TDx or Klipsch Heresey IV’s as my main speakers. Would you prefer one over the other, regardless of price?
@VeloRydr I've not listened to either of those but from the reviews those are two totally different speakers. Individual preference is going to be a huge factor.
I have the 1TDX with upgraded xover, and I would take it any day over the Heresy as it plays all types of music without fatigue, and with a much more manageable form factor. The Heresy is a very specific application speaker. From the many reviews of the Klipsch I’ve gathered that hip hop, EDM and even metal recordings are not well presented through the Heresy. However, Live acoustical performance and vocal-midrange filled recordings are probably superior through the Heresy. Personally, I have not found a genre that the Criton can’t present very well. The bass and detail are very revealing but not at all fatiguing. I think you will be very happy with the Critons over the Heresy. Or if the budget allows, get both of you want that “in the 1st row of the live concert” presentation of the Heresy.
Jay, try softer amp that has a bit of hole in the upper mids/highs - I just wonder if that could make CSS sound deeper. And how about running full freq response measurement set on both, that could explain to some degree their 'sound'
Just like everythings else, different type of music will suit certain designed of speakers. Good analogy would be like a chelf would use certain type of knife for certain cut.
There is no perfect speaker (or amp or DAC). We all must choose the gear that maximizes the attributes that matter most to us, and minimizes those that matter less to us.
The moment he said "A/B tests are flawed", he lost me. Blind A/B tests are by far the BEST way to determine which speakers you like more. Individual sound track idiosyncracies matter little when you're trying to pick speakers. Listen to bunch of different material and you'll easily prefer one speaker over another. With large orchestral classical music, I can tell which speaker I prefer in less than 20 seconds. Yes, proper A/B blind testing (level matched) is a major pain in the ass to set up.
It seems like the best way to test these speakers is to set them up as an owner would. Optimized amplification and setup from the wall. Using an amp that matches well with one speaker and not so much with the other and using a compromise distance from the back wall does not give the true picture. The appearance of equality of setup in fact can handicap both speaker. They should be set up perfectly with an amp of approximately cost and quality just a an owner would is more truthful of what they are capable of. Thanks for the video but it seems like a huge assumption error compromised the results. It's irrelevant how the CSS sounds with an amp that doesn't match well and some averaged distance from the wall.
Why wouldn't you NOT look for the pro's & con's of the typical sound of the speakers. Do use particular music or sounds and In comparishment of each other they can high light certain weaknesses or strenghts. When they shine or dissapoint in some way it is fair to notice and judge for preference, imho. And about placement of the speakers. Wouldn't that be the way the maker/producer would prefer? Compromising on this wouldn't suit both contestants, i think. But, great show and nice to see you're also into the 'budget' markets, thanks!🙂
Jay, Can’t wait to see your video directly comparing the CSS speaker with standard vs. upgrade crossover. Do parts matter? What difference do same valued but more expensive/higher quality resistors, capacitors and inductors make to the sound of a speaker? I don’t want to throw gasoline on a fire you and Danny have both put out, but you have made reference to him calling out manufacturers for “cheese” x-over parts. You have everything you need to give us your take. I can’t wait to hear it.
While you had these speakers out in the room. At the same volume level. Witch one was more efficient. I see reviews about the 1TDx tweeter not being efficient.
These blind tests takes lots of effort and time for me and my guests. Please don't forget to click the like button on the video if you enjoyed it !
All the links are in the descriptions as well as below. Note that GR Research price increase starts Aug 1st.
*Price Before*:
GR Research XLS Encore Finished Pair with all the upgrades: $1,493
GR Research XLS Encore KIT: $777
*Price as of Aug 1st 2022*
GR Research XLS Encore Finished Pair with all the upgrades: $1,670
GR Research XLS Encore KIT: $935
Non-Affiliated Purchase Links (note that GR Research Price Increase Starts as of Aug 1st) :
CSS Audio 1TDx (Finished): www.css-audio.com/online-store/CSS-Criton-1TD-X-Fully-Finished-Pair-p115270078
CSS Audio 1TDx KIT: www.css-audio.com/online-store/CSS-Criton-1TD-X-Kit-Pair-p221163830
GR research XLS Encore (Finished): gr-research.com/product/xls-encore/
GR research XLS Encore KIT (No cabinet): gr-research.com/product/x-ls-flatpack-pair/
GR research XLS Ecnore Flatpack Cabinet: gr-research.com/product/x-ls-flatpack-pair/
Test Gear:
Innuos zen mini mk2 DAC/Streamer
Denafrips Hades Pre-amp
Starke Audio Fierra Amp.
Related videos:
Full length blind test: th-cam.com/video/Ivi6rKWe1mI/w-d-xo.html
CSS Audio 1TDX: th-cam.com/video/MbksuZdrdV8/w-d-xo.html
CSS Audio 1TDX VS Sonus Faber Electa Amator III: th-cam.com/video/_G96tJiDVVI/w-d-xo.html
GR Research XLS Encore VS Sonus Faber Electa Amator III: th-cam.com/video/fcf2tYySyAY/w-d-xo.html
GR Research XLS Encore First impressions: th-cam.com/video/qz7hY2J3Blw/w-d-xo.html
Hey Jay, these are the two on the top of my shortlist. I was leaning the 1TD-X with standard crossover before but with GR's price increase it makes the CSS a more obvious choice for me. My question is do you think there are any sub $1000 integrated stereo amps around that would work well with the 1TD-X or is that selling them short? My goal is a decent set up for music but also as a soundbar replacement for the TV. I'm yet to hear a sound bar that I like so my goal was to keep the total budget not too much higher than the higher end sound bars.
I've owned the two speakers (CSS Audio 1TDx and GR Research XLS Encore), they are both assembled in Canada and U.S. Both using their regular parts (not upgraded), and after months of using it, there's no doubt in my mind that GR Research is superior. Maybe not in all aspects of the sound spectrum, but it's clear when it comes to bass extension, and layers of sound, GR Research is distinctly better. And the kicker is, GR Research is cheaper. BTW, i played them across 3 different systems, 3 different preamps, 3 different power amps, all using CD players (not streaming). Of course it could be due to fact that GR Research is better suited to my room, and other factors such as cables etc etc. But there is no doubt in my mind, I would choose GR Research every single time. Jay has taken an tedious effort to do this, so the love goes to him. But I think he is biased against Danny for his "elitist" comments and he is unwilling to admit sincerely that GR Research is better. So human.
I just built the CSS Torri kit. They are spooky good in my living room. I’m no expert or audiophile, just an average guy. Everyone I’ve played these things for have been blown away! It’s crazy hearing sounds move around the room ect. I had a track playing the other day that had sounds coming from behind me. Every time I listen, I can’t believe my ears.
I own the same XLS Encore configuration you are listening to, and I agree that about 4-5ft from the front wall is ideal. In my living room that makes it nearfield listening, but I'm OK with it. It took me a couple of hours to find the best listening position when I first got them, using measuring tape and markers on the floor, to gradually move them around and listening carefully. When you hit the sweet spot it makes a huge difference in the presentation. This is true for all speakers I have tried, that spending a lot of time to find the best speaker placement is fundamental and critical to tap into each speaker pair's best performance, and costs nothing but a little bit of time. Not doing this exercise leaves a LOT of performance on the table, actually wasted, so I'm glad you spent so much time on it. Thanks for a super interesting video! I really enjoyed it and learned something about both speakers (and amp matching).
So for those living in Texas…the full current cost for the XL-S is $1112 shipped with tax. The CSS is NOW with 5% preorder is $1267 delivered WITH the upgraded crossover. I’ve followed Danny a good while and I’m thinking that soundstage and imaging will be audibly enhanced with the CSS crossover upgrade which would probably take away that advantage from the GR pair. So for $100 more you will get better bass and a speaker that performs better in a more normal placement (not 4-5’ from the wall)
I have been waiting for a very long time for one of my trusted reviewers to do this comparison. Thank you so much Jay. I guess someone had to do it 😋
XLS-Encores need 5 feet away from the wall? How many people realistically are going to do that? Might as well get Magnepans if you can accommodate that distance from the wall.
Ye… I find that to be a downside as well
I'd rather have the Magnapan(and I do...lol)
Yep and as a Magnepan owner, 1.7, 1.6, MG, LRS,… a box speaker that needs 5 feet wall space is not worth it unless it’s a Magnepan.
@@stephenstevens6573 I can’t stand those things. They measure just as they sound.
Just about all speakers should be as far away from the rear wall as possible, period!
Thanks for a great comparison! You could have mentioned the more challenging assembly design of the GR Encores. My understanding is that they don’t have the beginner-friendly 3d printed circuit board with letters to match up, and the GR cabinet is more basic and requires a bit more clamping and bracing to glue up. Since this is DIY, making it ‘easy’ is an advantage for many audiophiles that have never tried a DIY kit before.
I am sticking with my SUPERIOR Critons lol. They are only 1.5 ft away and sound excellent to my tastes! Thanks for making this video Jay, and for taking Danny’s elitism seriously. Continue the great work in educating your viewers!
Excellent review, Jay. I appreciate the time and effort you put in trying to make this a fair comparison. I don’t understand why so many people feel there needs to be a “best”, nearly all comparisons between products comes down to personal preferences of the individual.
Excellent ... It "sounds" to me that both speakers came out winners ... both
CSS and GR Research have to be happy with your findings and rather well
articulated descriptions of such.
For a closer price comparison. The GR NX-studios base model is $2800. That’s only a $450 increase from the css. I don’t think it would even be a close race in performance.
Great review though. You can feel it’s truly honest.
the nx studios will walk all over the css?
Man I thought this was a great video for a few reasons. The main reason is I feel it really proved that when you have a couple of equally well made speakers that it all comes down to preferences and compromises, sometimes it's not about Winners and Losers. Everyone is different, likes different things, and hears different things. Also things like amps and sometimes Dacs can change the perception of speakers. Just the other day in my own home I pulled out an old cheaper amp (in price) cause I had bought a new Dac/preamp somewhat recently and wanted to see how it paired..i found that the more expensive amp I had been using all of a sudden sounded very compressed when compared to the cheaper one, it was very eye opening and a little depressing lol. Again, this was a great video, I'm glad you brought someone else in and did it the way you did. Good stuff 👍..and like most other people mentioned, 5 feet is a bit much..although it could vary from home to home I'm sure.
Great talk, equipment matching is so important and hard for most without showrooms. Your room has a mayor factor in sound, even before treatment that is a bandaid , we all need a bandaid from time to time, sound healing 🤣 . What I liked in a speaker when I was 25 is different than now, not completely , but I go for tone and a speaker that sounds good with different music. Boys and girls, placement takes some time and learned skill, but is worth it, most people do not do it 😞. Before you try to buy your way to better sound, learn about the room and placement, after go play with equipment and cables. Have fun and go see live music. ❤️
Thank you for another fun comparison! If we were to "perfectly" or "ideally" test these speakers, then we will be able to come up with a sound measurement for that specific testing equipment setup. What's cool, but annoying, about this hobby is that no one set of ears, speaker environment, listening position, climate, preference of music are going to be the same for us to judge speakers! It's one of those things that people will only find what they love by trying many, many equipment of all types. I'm glad Jay's doing this for our entertainment. I just wish I was there to hang out! haha
While Danny recommends 5’ from the front wall for best performance, the Encore speakers will still sound very good in normal conditions. And setting them closer to the wall will bring up the bass level a bit.
If you want more bass from the X-LS then get the tower version: X-SLS. Same drivers and crossover but in a more optimized air space.
Appreciate the video ;) 5 ft out seems like alot that 90% of people would not do, but I understand trying his method. Maybe ideal distance and amp for both (approx similar budget) and I wouldn't mind including standard and improved cross over to see if the benefits of the gr research would be matched by the upgraded crossover, plus the benefits of the citons creating a better overall package.
Keep up the great work and I really like this series of videos - thumbs up
How did they compare on dynamics, both at your chosen volume level, as well as at high volume levels? That’s an important element of speaker performance that often gets overlooked.
Yes!
This was enjoyable for sure. You both brought up some very good points. The discussions below, echo those points. The genre of the music tends to "temper" the "feel". Back in the early 80;s, when I sold audio gear @ Franklin Music in Atlanta, the first question I always asked, was what kind of music do you listen to ? This was back in the day, when the JBL L100 Century, was "THE" monitor speaker. If the person said "Tone-Loc", then I would steer them to the BIC side of things. If they said "Gary Wright" or "Beach Boys" it would probably be Pioneer HPM100, which was an attempt to make a more modest JBL L100 clone. If they said Hard Rock", and money was not a problem, then I would hit for the L100's or L200's. BIC was a "thumper" speaker -- massive bass, but pretty muddy, everywhere else. To each his own, and I sold some of all of them. Yes, speakers ARE a very personal thing. Once again, a good time for me. Thanks ! Rip
Thank you Jay. This type of testing with the commentary you are providing on the test methods helps your audience understand the characters of these two popular kits. Don't worry about any hate, just keep em coming.
Good video, both are killer for the money it seems, I've had the maxxed encores, and they were incredible, beat our my ls50 and new metas and the LS3/5a, I didn't see needing to have them 5 feet out, that seemed over the top so don't worry, they'll perform just fine 2 feet off the wall, they were all tested in the same room 18-22 inches off the wall, slight toe, and I couldn't complain about anything on the encore.
The distance I’m sure is room dependent.
They beat out my kef r3 metas!
Thanks for the comparison Jay. It appears you two had a great time listening to music, so that makes it all worth while. What I learned from this video is both speakers are great at their price point and people select based upon their personal likes and dislikes. I happen to own GR Research Encores and couldn't be happier with them. I built my set and covered the exterior of the MDF cabinet with 3/16" Tigerwood for a spectacular looking speaker. A DIY kit is not for everyone but it is nice to have the option. Especially when these two kits sound so good for the price. I really enjoy your videos and thanks for taking the time to share. 👍
Nice work, Jay. I'm really digging what you're doing on your channel as of late. Big THANKS
Damn Jay, that first pic of your friend look like he was in a hostage situation lol. Also gotta give you props again, yiu reaching out to Danny after everything has really made him soften up and be more open to all of you and understand we all ate in this together, even we disagree on some things. Good to see youbstuxk by the Starke amp after many audiophiles (and Amin from ASR) got on them for the fudgee performace numbers of that amp.
Amir is amir. He will shit on everything but smsl and topping. XD jokes aside, I think everyone can get along if they just put their ego aside. Different opinons are good - just like this video... it just needs to be civil and respectful
@@Jayiyagi Regardless how you feel about Amir, those results for the Starke Sound AD4.320 were measured from the APx555 so they are objective measurements. The fact is Starke lied about their rated power. Audioholics also reported their sample with lower performance than rated. I feel like this should be mentioned in your review of their products if you want to be transparent in your reviews for your subscribers.
Fifty Shades of Jay?
@@Mark198d of course it will be mentioned in the fierra vid
I would like to see comparison of the upgraded crossovers vs. the regular ones.
Yes 👍
@@NosEL34 Yes
It makes perfect sense to me, ppl like Dany in his age doesnt hear high frequencies as well. So the bass doesnt have to be as present. Highs and bass work in harmony, more highs equal less bass and also oposite is true. My father(much older guy) when listening to my system always says it's way too much bass.
I'll design a speaker using the CSS tweeter mated with GR research Midwoofer. This way I'd get best of both worlds 😊
I have the 1TDX Superiors and they are incredible. With a pair of RSL Speedwoofer Mkii, the new ones. Near field. It's mind blowing.
Interesting. Near Field is on my list for a rebuild over my current system.
I'll have to check out that subwoofer pairing....
@@charlesclifton1006 they are far better than I was expecting, but I did my research. I chose them over REL 1205s. This is my desktop system. System 2, which I seem to be using the most. The subwoofers are absolutely top notch, do everything you could want. A steal. They replaced a pair of Emotiva S8, which cost the same, and they wipe the floor with those in my setup. I finally have real sounding drums with real authority. And real lows below 30.
@@Audfile Interesting that you chose them over the RELs and as far
as base-management I'll do further research. I am impressed that you
use the 1TDXs in a near field setting. I am keenly interested in building
these with the up-graded cross-overs but I think I would prefer to use
the GR Research "tube connectors". Anyways, I think we are both on
the same page as far as desk-top sound quality is concerned.
@@charlesclifton1006 see the sections labeled "how we tested" and "the competition." An eye opener.
finally! it's what we all waited for
I bought a pair (XLS Encores) and yet to finish soldering and connecting the speaker wires. I have enlisted my friend to help with this he suggested we use some cables he use with the high end speakers he work on at his speaker company we'll experiment with both. Thanks for the series of videos its been entertaining and educational.
Hi Jay, great stuff, but I believe that you should have tested CSS Audio kit with upgraded crossover. This way you would compared apples with apples. Both kits with upgraded crossovers. We're talking about comparing similar quality products even if they were off by a few hundred dollars. Both companies are praising using better crossover components for better sound quality, so I don't understand your decision based just on final price. All the best.
I wish as well but we have to pick our poison with these blind tests. Cheers
prices came out the same. price points matter for me anyway. add 400$ to a 900$ speaker and thats a new ball game. gr makes kits that sell for more so he could have used one of those kits...
@@veroman007 yes he should compare similar priced kits from both companies, but either way good video
@@MrDannydjmix2 As a matter of fact they make the XLS encore in a tower version which gives you added base of course then you are comparing a floor stander to a bookshelf but either way that would be interesting
Upgraded crossovers, have ZERO proof they improve anything other than profit for those selling them.
I like your A/B tests. They are helpful. And, maybe next time do a different type of test. Do everything you can to help the GR to shine, via spacing upgrades etc (if available). Even pick the best music for that speaker. And do the same for the CSS. Don’t worry about the cost difference. Make them both shine And then see which one makes you feel better.
Appreciate the effort to make them comparable, but the GR’s got: More favorable placement, Amp more suited to them, music choices more suited to them, and the max upgrade kit. I’m guessing if the css speakers had all of these in their favor instead, they would blow the GR’s out of the water. Add in the css’s easier assembly of the enclosure and crossover kit with a better looking finished product, I’m going to build the css audio speakers with the best upgrades available.
Nice video comparison. There are many factors as to why the imaging in depth and width would be different between these 2 models. Not including the part’s quality. Cabinet construction with regard to speaker placement on the baffle, baffle width, square corners versus rounded, time domain due to spacing of drivers just to name a few. Those would be the areas I would address and change in regard to the css to improve its imaging capabilities.
The question which is better? wasn't really answered it sounds like they're both really good sounding speakers, Jay liked CSS and Nova? liked the GR Research surprised they both overwhelmingly chose their favorite. The one thing Jay pointed out that I found disappointing was how far out the GR Research have should be from the back wall for optimal sound.
Thanks to Jay for doing this head to head on these 2 speakers so quickly, I was pretty much sold on the GR Research but now the CSS sounds like a better choice (for me).
It sounds like a fair and honest test, well appreciated. thanks.
Thank you so much for doing this. This is a first on TH-cam truly comparing these two.
I appreciate the work that went into this and love that you brought your friend in to hash this out.
I haven't seen anyone mention this specifically but better caps typically opens the Soundstage (despite the nay sayers 😆). It true. Both seem like a killer way to go. I saw several people mention comparing the upgraded kit from css criton and hopefully someone will do this or at least offer a pair for Jay to test.
I wish someone would do a video of the parts express Solstice. I would imagine it may possibly be better or as good as these for the same cost.
The Morel driver cost more than the kit
No, you do not mean NAYSAYERS, you mean YOU HAVE ZERO PROOF they do anything. You are putting your beliefs onto those, that simply say you can not back up any of what you say. It is up to YOU, making the claim, to SHOW OR PROVE, what you say is true. Instead of calling people naysayers, why not question whether what you "Think you hear" is measurable, or even if you could tell in a blind test.?? The burden is on YOU!
I agree about the effects of better caps, resistors and cleaner wiring.
I upgraded some Minimus 7 speakers that I built Xovers for using cheap Dayton parts to their premium parts and the soundstage/micro details really opened up.
Using cheaper vs expensive Xover parts of the same value cleans up the sound vs changes it. Measuring this aspect of sound quality would be very difficult I’d imagine on a test tone but relatively easy to hear for someone who can.
You “naysayer” rely on others peoples measurements vs us “non naysayers” who speak from our own listening experiences. I don’t care if you don’t believe me and it’s ok for you to think I’m wrong.
What I really wish is for all of you who rely solely on measurements to understand that they’re really good starting points but not the end all. They could be but I’m guessing that speaker placement can transform your system to another level. I challenge anyone reading this to raise their speakers by 5” or so and tell me whether you hear a difference? And that’s just a taste.
Please please please for the love of God do a review of the Seas bifrost speaker it’s a kit from Maddie sound it should 100% be on your radar and I think it would be such a compelling video to compare the three of the speakers
Best argument for reviews needing to consider real world placement scenarios I've seen...thanks!
Excellent video. Sheesh! I'd love to sit down for a session and coffee with you guys! Many thanks and all the best, Rob in Switzerland
Comparing the two fully loaded fully assembled (I gotta face it, in my studio apt, I'm not building anything), the CSS is $2,349 and the GR is $1,493. Seems fair, for about 60% more money, you get a lot more bass. Considering the placement preferences of the speakers mentioned in the video, it seems like CSS is good for a no subwoofer, place closer to the wall system. And the GR seems like you'd use the money you saved to get a subwoofer if you were serious about bass. Also it would be precluded from being too close to walls.
$800 (the approximate difference) will buy one hell of a subwoofer.
Css every have black friday sale
I you want a deeper soundsstage, add the upgrade-crossover to the Critons, that ll do it... yes, that ll make it more expensive as the Encore, but you get the richer-more-body-sound of the Critons too...
If you have a dedicated room, the speakers will be 4-5 feet from the wall. I do. But in a dedicated room you are not going to be use those little speakers. So GR Research missed the mark on that point. Sure, if you buy GR Research reference open baffle then you expect to have them 1/3 of the way into a large dedicated audio room. But these are made for life in a small apartment or stuffed onto a bookshelf. In those cases they are not going to work well.
Absolutely agree, they have work in a home environment other wise what's the point of a bookshelf speaker....
5 ft from the wall is the norm in the audiophile world. It’s what you get in most rooms when setting up speakers using “rule of thirds” or Cardas method
It's a norm, but when you look at random audiophile systems... High number of those systems have speakers near the wall + almost no room treatment. Only small minority of users have proper listening space/room with optimal distances.
Great take on things. There is no perfect speaker for all situations or all listening environments. It really comes down to what you as the consumer likes to hear in your music, and what kind of music you like listening to. Thanks for all the work that went into doing this video. --den
For a tone-hound like me, Jay is one of the most important reviewers.
Without blind test, you can hear difference. Both prices are close anyway. Price doesn't affect much how good is both speaker. In purchasing decision just run your favourite playlist and choose which sound closer to your liking. Of course, both speaker they are no way to demo in store.
regardless of price difference both speakers should have had the best components available in the comparison test
Sure. I wanted to but again, we have to choose our poisons with these blind tests.
@@Jayiyagi imo you made the sensible call. $400 is not small change when comping 935$ kits!
@@Jayiyagi I would imagine the top of the line CSS would have blown the GRR away, so in that regard you would get a whole lot more for just a few more hundred bucks. 😃. thanks!
Its a good idea, but you can't do it because you're now listening to 2 different systems, not speakers. The only way around it is if you found that each speaker sounds best with different amps, you could test both speakers with both amps.
@@weeverob just? its almost 50% more for those of us on budgets its a lot
Well done guys! Great video. Looks like you had fun with it.
I run the CSS with superior crossover and Burson timekeeper 3i ;
I have found this combination to be ideal.
You could use travel eye-masks to make it easier during the blind testing - cheers from Australia!
Nice. Feedback I can relate to. As a musician, I have a very strong sense of what many instruments are supposed to sound like. Dream Theater's "6 o'clock" starts off with a very engineered drum fill across the toms and then to a bass/snare beat. "Under a Glass Moon" has so many things I look for. Can the woofer keep up with fast double kick? Alcatrazz "Big Foot" or maybe any song from Yngwies debut solo album. Some of EVH's most iconic riffs. And thats just some of 'rock/metal' I like to sample. How does a nylon string guitar from Paco or DiMeolo sound? If the instruments dont sound real, I guess the staging doesnt matter. When you describe a pick scrape or even the flesh of the skin making string noise, you know how that sounds from SRV coming out a Super Reverb.
Tone all day for me. I do enjoy a good soundstage and imaging. Check out a stand mount by Fritz. I think his will compete with the CSS for tone.
5 feet away seems unrealistic for a lot of rooms.
Mine are close to the wall, but I pull them out to 4' for a longer listening session. Best of both worlds.
Testing speakers not room acoustics
Thanks Jay, I must admit in my living room i pull my speakers 4ft into the room
But i am moving them around 😆
How low can those CSS Audio go like In room bass 35-30hz ?
Thanks Jay and friend 😆
Jay !! 😆
really well done. the basic dayton x over must be well above the 'cheesy parts' Danny exposes which says a lot about css that they will not sell you crappy parts. i concur w your placement. no reason to make it easy upfront.
good review, l'm looking forward to the review on the new Starke Sound Fiero amp and how it compares to the previous model from Starke that I have.
few people i know have the ability or desire to put a speaker 4-5 ft out into the room.
My living room could not accommodate the GR Research & I think both kits are over priced.
Thanks for the frank review ✌✌
Good stuff! Thanks Jay. Yeah I'm thinking of a great little setup with a Bluesound Node, Schiit Vidar, and some 1TDX's. Done and done for a fun set I can build with my kids and have my daughter do a crazy custom paint job on them.
The G.R. kit sure seems worth it's price to me, I think I'd choose it after considering all here & esp' the previous vid you did on the GR vs Sonus Faber. I would guess amps with a higher damping factors will favour the G.R. better (???) with its relatively light driver & hence smaller magnet around it's vouce-coil's movement. But the most curious thing was the talk about folk accusing you could all see through the fabric fibre or look through low gaps with some magical bent-vision? well, they must be easy to fool 'by-film' people, they talk like a camera can only tell the whole truth, don't they know the power of editing or pointing it wherever wanted, tho you wanted to know your opinions in a blind test & hence no point in 'cheating' they'd be far easier ways to do if you did want to waste time & cheat for no reason I could see, the accusations are ridiculous
Jay, for someone who values detail and imaging, which speaker would you recommend?
I wish you would’ve compared the css with the upgrades.
Thank you for the review. It is very interesting to see reviws on diy stuff. :)
Are you going to review the GR Research NX-Studio? Such little information out there
wow, you got better at this, well done!
I will love to build either one of these kits, along with the Lii Audio F-15 open baffles. Thanks for comparing them.
Not thrilled about the looks of either. I would get the new Martin Logan XT Bookshelf or tower series instead. Can’t wait for your review Jay!
Guys, the fact is that both manufacturers offer fantastic value.
In reality you get $10,000 speakers for one fifth the price. That is a bargain from any view
Since amplifier and room set up for the maximum performance is the limiting factor. Then take up Danny’s offer to travel to Texas and listen to GR research speakers that were properly implemented set up the right electronics right speaker placement by Danny himself.
and then judge.
But we know the speaker is smaller both the driver and the cabinet so right off the bat got one arm tied behind his back in a fight
Cool comparison. Im wondering how the CSS would compare to a GR speaker in the same price range...
It is the same price range in kit form.
The GR research appears to attempt to control edge diffraction with the chamfers. Appear to use a higher quality/rigidity material too.
I'm confused so did the CSS speakers have the high end crossover or reg?
If somebody wants to complain about the blindfold, did they notice if ears were partially covered? The criticisms are so silly.
Completely silly. Jay could cheat in a thousand ways if he wanted to. Healthy skepticism is good. Finding conspiracies everywhere is bad.
Well in GR vs Sonus Faber you maybe also bottlenecked SF by going with less than great electronics. Also, did SF engineer contact you as well regarding positioning and all the other stuff? I'm just saying it's a bit of clutching atvthe straws from Danny here. Perhaps because the myth is publically broken now.
So...are the Sonus Faber speakers better sounding than these two speakers?
Tested was the CSS without crossover upgrade. So I will go for the CSS WITH the upgrade.
A speaker blind test shows personal preference, but a dac/cable/power amp blind test show if the products tested are actually any different. Its pretty easy to pick a speaker 9 out of 10 times in a blind test if you know what you like. In this test we see 2 winners, no one is wrong and no one is right. If someone prefers a very hot top end, they would pick a LS50 Meta with a +8db boost at 10khz every single time over an unequalized Meta. I would personally choose the Criton over the Encore due to the fact that its more analytical and revealing.
Do you base your opinions on your own listening to each? Just curious.
@@EskWIRED i base my opinions based on available measurements and what I hear. Both go hand in hand.
I have the Critons and "analytical" is not at all the way I would describe them. They are more warm and "musical" (I know ASR members hate that term, but you know what I mean, think more ELAC/Wharfedale/Buchardt and not KEF/Focal/Monitor Audio). And I have watched basically every review available on the Critons by Jay, Thomas & Stereo, Mark on HiFi, etc. and no one ever describes them as ultra revealing or analytical, so I highly doubt it's my room acoustics or matching components making it sound that way. Never heard the Encores.
@@AbsoluteFidelity So you have directly compared the GR and the CSS?
I am considering the CSS 1TDx and the GR Research NX Studio. Have you listen to the GR Studio NX speakers and do you have a comparison opinion of them compared to the Css1TDx.?
Sounds like if you prefer bass the css but immersion, soundstage gr. I'd by far prefer immersion. Jay says tone is better with css.
It seems like Jay did everything he could to favor the Encores over the Criton's, 5 feet out into the room - check, amp pairing that works best with the Encores - check, bass light music (because the Criton's excel here) - check, and he still choose the Criton's. I guess this was the only way to keep Danny at GR Research form whinning like a baby!
That last sentence was childish. Speakers are trade off to fit everyone. Your personal taste rules for you. But pulling out speakers from the wall gives great sound. Close to the wall gives umpf.
I agree
DR seems like a whiner.
Is the price you're showing for just the kit with upgrades or also including materials for the cabinets and NoRez? The upgraded kit on the GR Reasearch site currently shows to be $714.50. Did the price go down by $200 since this video was made?
Just another shining example that there is no absolutely definable better or best. There is personal preference. That personal preference will be heavily influenced by experience.
Sounds like the GR Research with a good subwoofer at about the same price for a non kit is the winner winner chicken dinner. In other words the CSS audio is hundreds more as a finished speaker-- add a sub to the GR and the bass complaints go way for similar dollars.
This is audiophile bull, anyone bothering to build a speaker would follow placement instructions for that speaker. Pick whichever amp The manufacturer believes sound best, and compare best case scenarios .
Nice comparison, but I would love to hear the comparison what you herd with the same music ourself.
Thank you
Great comparison! I’m saving up for either CSS Criton 1TDx or Klipsch Heresey IV’s as my main speakers. Would you prefer one over the other, regardless of price?
@VeloRydr I've not listened to either of those but from the reviews those are two totally different speakers. Individual preference is going to be a huge factor.
I have the 1TDX with upgraded xover, and I would take it any day over the Heresy as it plays all types of music without fatigue, and with a much more manageable form factor. The Heresy is a very specific application speaker. From the many reviews of the Klipsch I’ve gathered that hip hop, EDM and even metal recordings are not well presented through the Heresy. However, Live acoustical performance and vocal-midrange filled recordings are probably superior through the Heresy. Personally, I have not found a genre that the Criton can’t present very well. The bass and detail are very revealing but not at all fatiguing. I think you will be very happy with the Critons over the Heresy. Or if the budget allows, get both of you want that “in the 1st row of the live concert” presentation of the Heresy.
Do you think with the upgraded crossover, the CSS Audio will at least match the GR Research’s great soundstage?
Css audio improves with upgraded crossover but gr has more depth.
Jay, try softer amp that has a bit of hole in the upper mids/highs - I just wonder if that could make CSS sound deeper. And how about running full freq response measurement set on both, that could explain to some degree their 'sound'
I like! You did deliver! Thanks.
Just like everythings else, different type of music will suit certain designed of speakers. Good analogy would be like a chelf would use certain type of knife for certain cut.
There is no perfect speaker (or amp or DAC). We all must choose the gear that maximizes the attributes that matter most to us, and minimizes those that matter less to us.
The moment he said "A/B tests are flawed", he lost me. Blind A/B tests are by far the BEST way to determine which speakers you like more. Individual sound track idiosyncracies matter little when you're trying to pick speakers. Listen to bunch of different material and you'll easily prefer one speaker over another. With large orchestral classical music, I can tell which speaker I prefer in less than 20 seconds. Yes, proper A/B blind testing (level matched) is a major pain in the ass to set up.
It seems like the best way to test these speakers is to set them up as an owner would. Optimized amplification and setup from the wall. Using an amp that matches well with one speaker and not so much with the other and using a compromise distance from the back wall does not give the true picture. The appearance of equality of setup in fact can handicap both speaker. They should be set up perfectly with an amp of approximately cost and quality just a an owner would is more truthful of what they are capable of. Thanks for the video but it seems like a huge assumption error compromised the results. It's irrelevant how the CSS sounds with an amp that doesn't match well and some averaged distance from the wall.
So, all of these speakers are manufactured by other companies. Cabinet, speakers not the company who sells them,???
Why wouldn't you NOT look for the pro's & con's of the typical sound of the speakers. Do use particular music or sounds and In comparishment of each other they can high light certain weaknesses or strenghts. When they shine or dissapoint in some way it is fair to notice and judge for preference, imho. And about placement of the speakers. Wouldn't that be the way the maker/producer would prefer? Compromising on this wouldn't suit both contestants, i think.
But, great show and nice to see you're also into the 'budget' markets, thanks!🙂
A comparison between the Gr Research and the Founder 40b would be interesting.
If you have to have the XLS 5 feet off the wall, why would you not just go with open-baffle at that point?
Jay, Can’t wait to see your video directly comparing the CSS speaker with standard vs. upgrade crossover. Do parts matter? What difference do same valued but more expensive/higher quality resistors, capacitors and inductors make to the sound of a speaker? I don’t want to throw gasoline on a fire you and Danny have both put out, but you have made reference to him calling out manufacturers for “cheese” x-over parts. You have everything you need to give us your take. I can’t wait to hear it.
Would be nice to have more of a conversation when you have a guest around. It often seems like a one way street when you're talking.
While you had these speakers out in the room. At the same volume level. Witch one was more efficient. I see reviews about the 1TDx tweeter not being efficient.