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Kristi makes the most important point anyone could make in Hifi reviewing, when she speaks about "looking forward to using the product everyday"!!! In case you missed it folks, that's what hifi is all about!! It couldn't be more plain or better put than that, because when you have that one quality going for you then you really have done something right!
I have been listening to my stereo system since 1970 when I bought à Sonata NS 1600 amp (8w per ch) and a simple turntable (just the platter, belt, motor and metal base plate and tone arm (a really long one, all chrome) bought separate to the turntable and l made a box for the turntable, and a SURE cartridge then $20. And built my own 6" single driver speaker boxes for my 6" single drivers. My first system. 😅
I repeat it any time you review a B&O product, but your is the only "credible" youtube channel able to do it properly, and transmit the feelings and the real experience that come from these speakers. Great job as always, and thanks for this video.
Best and most heartfelt video I’ve seen from you guys and the one I can relate the most, especially the monologue section where Kristi confesses of how she rediscovered music through those speakers and can’t stop listening to them instead of worrying about how she will get to the “ideal sound”. I feel EXACTLY like that about the B&W Formation Duos and I can’t thank you enough guys for your review on them and how they ended up changing my approach to HiFi listening. Now, I don’t know how they compare sonically to the A9 (it will be interesting to know) but boy have I rediscovered music. It has solved all my issues snd hassle about trying to find the right amp preamp, DAC, sub that will match, because B&W has done it for me in a smart active speaker format. And they have done it in the best way they feel their signature sound will be represented. Short signal path, optimised drive unit behaviour to amplifier, dynamic EQ, full control over dynamic unit behaviour, DSP, those are some of the benefits a smart active speaker will give you and in the process take away the time consuming, pricy headache (for many people fun way) to try, play around and find what match is right for you. If you get goosebumps right away and can’t look forward to come back home to listen to music; I mean what more do you need, isn’t what we most strive for from our “ideal” system?
I really loved this review and video. Congrats both Andrew and Kristi on getting an A9, and I'm so glad you both enjoyed it. My audio journey started really young, born in 1983, and MTV was my favorite station to watch by the time I was 5. My Dad had a Pioneer SX-828 receiver, PL-12D turntable, a Technics cassette deck, all running to a pair of Bang & Olufsen Beovox S45-2 speakers. I was always in love with this stereo system, and wanted my own. I went through a lot of different items as a young kid. GE radio, Panasonic radio that I still own (early 90's), to an older 1970's RCA receiver with built in 8 Track player, and a set of some kind of hifi speaker. A few different Sharp Walkmans, and a Sony Discman in the late 90's. I was able to get a Pioneer SX-828 of my own when I turned something like 13 years old. It was one that my uncle owned, and gifted to me for my birthday. I had saved up money by getting a paper rout, and went to my local hi-fi store (RIP Audio Village), and bought a pair of Pioneer CS-G304a speakers. I used that set up for many many years. I also had some pretty decent car audio equipment, as it was the first time in my life that I was allowed to get some freedom from the home, get away from the parents, and listen to what I wanted to, at a loud level. Lots of Pioneer car audio, and Panasonic as well. Mixed with different subwoofers from Pioneer, Kenwood, and some other brands I'm just forgetting. In 2010 I bought my first house, set up my living room with the Pioneer SX-828, and CS-G304a speakers. I've also had a Kenwood 5 disc changer, and when that broke, I bought a Sony ES 5 disc changer that I still own today. I also got back into records at this time. The B&O speakers my dad had left an impression on me, and I bought a Beogram 1602 turntable with a working MMC 20EN cartridge. Around this time I was trying a lot of different turntables. My Dad's old PL-12D, the 1602, an Audio Technica AT-PL-120, a Pioneer PL-510A. After jumping around a lot, I found that the 1602 was the best sounding of all the turntables I owned, but it was getting pretty beat up too. So I found a Bang & Olufsen RX2 that was in basically mint condition. I put a new belt on it, and bought a new Sound-Smith SMMC 3 cart, and then found that the phono pre amp I had (Cambridge) was not well made, and was leaking voltage back to the cartridge. So I then upgraded that to a Musical Fidelity V90, and was really happy with that set up for a while. All of that got me really into the B&O bug, and I wanted a full B&O system. I had a living room in my lower level that would collect odd and ends of odd hi-fi equipment, but around 2018 I decided to go deeper into the B&O rabbit hole. I started by buying a Beomaster 5500, Beocord 5500, and a Master Control Panel 5500, running to my Dad's old S45-2 speakers. I then got a Beogram 5005 as well, but the Beomaster was a bit of a mess at times, and the MCP had major issues too. The person who sold me the Beogram 5005 was a huge B&O nerd, and we both were on the Beoworld forums, so we ended up becoming pretty good friends, and he helped me repair the Beomaster 5500 and MCP to the point where everything worked as it should. However, I saw he had a Beocenter 9000, and I was in awe of how cool that system was, and how it worked. I told him if he ever wanted to sell that, I wanted it. Well, he had another in storage that was in good condition looks wise, but needed some work. I got the Beocenter 9000, it is in near mint condition and works flawlessly. I picked up a pair of Beolab Penta Mk I speakers, a matching Beogram 9000, Beolink 1000, and even the Active 10AM antenna. It's a gorgeous system and I just love when I get to listen to it. The Penta's were a huge project, but turned out good. I love the flexibility of the system. I have a Pioneer 8 Track player hooked up to it, built in cassette, CD, AM, FM, an Audioengine Bluetooth B1, and the Beogram turntable. It's crazy how versatile it is. I've since picked up Bang & Olfusen H6 headphones, H7, H9i, E6, and H95's. Beoplay Active A2, a set of Beolab 4000's Mk II (love them), Beocenter 9500 (huge project in the works), Beomaster 7000, and Beogram CD 7000 (also a project). There is still a lot for me left to do, but eventually I want a pair of Beolab 5's. Thanks to anyone who read this.
I can understand your arguments very well. I was and am a bit of a gear junkie, but it became too complicated and too complex to use for "just listening to music". So some time ago I switched to active speakers (older Elac Air-X 207 with manual room correction) and only connected a turntable and CD Player. It was an almost liberating step without any loss of sound. I don't have to keep thinking about whether this or that device fits, whether an upgrade might help or whatever the origin of the dissatisfaction is. I'm sure I'll switch to a full smartspeaker at some point...just keep my Alva TT V2 ;) ...(and a CD player - Yes I grew up in the 90s ;) )
I've just bought the A9 and wow it's gooooood we have a big living room and kitchen in one and it's play music crystal clear , we are a couple in our 50th and we are dancing together almost every day since we got even our youngest daughter that still lives at home join us ❤ thank you B&O
B&O is exceptional in taking care of you as a customer. I had an issue with stereo pairing two Beosound Emerge. Around two-three days of back and forth emails, they escalated it. They CALLED ME and made sure I tried everything possible. Before even saying “OK, we will take them back” they brought the problem to their engineers and pushed a tailored update TO MY SPEAKERS!!! Just to fix them. Never had an issue since. I became a devout follower and have no intention of going back. If I need more speakers I just wait until I can afford one. They’re incredible. I got into it when I saw your Beosound Stage review a couple of years ago and I’ve been your fan ever since. Great content, as always!!
My life changed after buying my first b&o speaker. Theres is honestly a sound that is truly special, not only the sound, but the design, the history, the quality. Its honestly something else. Ive had speakers of different quality through out my life, but b&o changed my life. I started with a couple of used beolap 4000, added a couple of used beolap 8000. Then i bougt a beosound moment and now ive got of almost new couple of beolap 8000 and beo lap 3's and a subwoofer. Its continues to blow my mind. I wouldnt have it anyother way.
High school in the 70's meant every guy I knew had a stereo. Yes mixed tapes were a thing, but basically if you weren't sure if you wanted an album that you found out someone had, you went over and heard it on their stereo. Fast forward a few decades and I got back into audio by hunting craigslist and then online forums. Traveling around New England to buy/sell meant I got to move up the audio ladder over the course of the last 12 years or so. Finally arriving at an Audio Research vsi60 tube amp and Sonus Faber Signum based system I think I got to hear some pretty nice gear, but now I'm nearing retirement and to prepare for a retirement move, I'm selling it all. However, I do want one good BT speaker and this might be the solution. I think lots of people are looking for a less-is-more solution.
Greetings from Singapore, Andrew & Kristi, Wish to say this is such a heart warming review. I have been a B&O fan for decades and am still using a pair of Lab9 speakers with a BV10 TV. Masterlinked to a Beosound 9000. Even own their now discontinued cabinets. Brought joy to both my wife and myself for years. And can certainly relate to both your sentiments. Wishing you both and all your channel subscribers great health and joy.
I have been a B&O customer since 1989 when I bought my first and only turntable the Beogram RX2. B&O puts so much care, design, and quality in their products that almost everyone can find a very nice product that works for them, both musically, and financially. I have several of their portable bluetooth speakers(2 Beolit 15s and a Beolit 20) and that beautiful turntable which is over 30 years old now. I wish more companies gave as much thought to their products and took as much care manufacturing them as B&O does. The A9 is really out of my budget now, but the tech that they have developed to make that speaker as amazing as it is, is also, in different forms in other B&O products, and they really are all, beautiful, and amazing things.
Good morning fam! Thanks for another great Sunday edition! Andrew, I've never even considered a smart speaker as a listening option. I believe it's because I've never heard a premium option - or at least something that sounds good. I have a background in media. So, for years, the recording studio (studio monitors) was the extent of my exposure to powered speakers of any sort outside of Sonus 👎. (The recording studio was also the start of my journey into sound). Thank you for opening my mind. I'll explore this. And ,thank you Kristi for highlighting how we can experience our audio journey with our partners. My wife has come along in my journey to an extent. I still haven't gotten her to cross the DMZ to the audiophile experience.😅So thanks for sharing. Be well my friends!
Love your comment DaWayne! Thank you! And I hope you get to experience B&O products sometime in the not too distant future, if for no other reason than to see what's out there.
I have been looking at the A9 for so long now it is silly. They have advanced it so many times and I am just still looking haha. Your video has made me think I might decide to get one. The problem is that I have already decided that I will never ever get ONE Bluetooth speaker again. I will only get speakers that can be stereo paired. The sound is too good to miss out on. That mehaveI have to find £6000 from somewhere. Your videos and monologues are so enticing. I love listening to you and Kristi (especially Kristi😊) talk about what the speakers have done in your life. My P6 stereo pair live in a very special place in my heart. The sound is lush and luxuriou as ,speakers of that size and shape have no right to be. They are just lovely. In my office I have no reason to have more however for where I will be living the A9 might be the speaker that makes our whole family spend an evening istening again. Love this video. I once was someone who was thinking I needed to get an amp and I was daunted by the prospect of having to choose which one to get - tube, solid state, etc. With modern active speakers of this quality, this goes away and I am closer to simply choosing the music. I love that. I may ditch the idea of even looking for amps. Not a bad thingg for those who want to do it. I just want to listen to the music. A9.... (Or maybe the 28s in a few years more) Hmmmm. I woud love to hear how you think the level and the new Beosound A5 compare to the Balance which youjnhave in your kitchen. I really would love to get your take on the Balance. It has been described as a mini Beolab 90 because of its many drivers. What do you think and how do you rate the sound produced. BTW - it is sompletely reasonable to compare all of these speakers - it is about what you want and how you listen. I remember in your review of the Beosound Level - you said that you wre ejust listening to it after having listened to some higher end speakers. People will do that. Also someone may hear one of these speakers and simply never need ot go anywhere else in their life to listen to their music. Thanks again for the video. You both do such a great job describing speakers. Looking forward to the next one and I am already going to go to a store and have a listen to the A9 ..... just a taste.
I’m really happy that this speaker gets more exposure, because it really is that exceptional. It doesn’t hurt either that it’s also stunningly beautiful. Excellent video! 🎉
I love Bang & Olufsen for adding Airplay and Chromecast to their own multiroom option. We’re a mixed Apple/Android household, everyone uses different streaming services, so this flexibility is fantastic.
I love music and I wore out my folks console, blew up the speakers when they went to separates, and told my fiance (now wife of 47 years), that I would always have a good system in the house. We had 3 music professors in the family and they gifted some very profound albums and I wore those out also.
I've actually owned B&O products since I was a teenager, but over the years, especially with their software issues and short cycles 10-15 years ago, especially with the Beosound Moment, I turned my back on the brand a bit. Today I still own a Beovision 5 and an A1, as well as the old Beolab 4000 (which still sound great despite their age, driven by a Bluesound). I would like to buy more stuff from them again because i love there desgin, but they should be more flexible with other brands (I will never give up piega Cl90x in combo with my naim unitiy nova, because with these I rediscovered my music) and integrate roon for example.
I've been into hi-fi for close to 30 years now and currently have a near six figure system. However, that system (or any really high end system) only performs to capability in dedicated/treated spaces that, honestly, aren't enjoyable to spend time in. The result is that I find myself listening to it less and less and have a harder time connecting with music because it has become too much like work. Makes me miss the days of playing my boom box in my bedroom or hanging out with the car stereo blasting as a kid. Maybe something like this is the answer - bring good music back to the space I where I want to be.
45 years ago I was invited to bring my hi-fi in to the store's demo room and let compare it with what they would have picked and choices as upgrades. I thought, I expected, to spend 100 or so on a new cartridge. I spent 40% of my annual salary on turntable, arm, cartridge, pre-amp and active speakers. The turntable has been upgraded twice (same Linn Sondek well it looks the same) and the pre-amp and speakers maintained but not replaced. They have been moved around from a two room flat to a house, a bigger house and then bungalow. They have remained the sound stage of all the music, radio, television and movie watching from the outset eventually included in a 5.1/7.1 system. I would like to replace them as due to age repairs take longer and being big floor standing speakers take up a lot of space. As the music gets transferred to the digital jukebox I don't need racks to hold vinyl, CD, DVD or Blu-ray. Even the most expensive system that I would consider to replace them ~ 24k GBP current Linn Sondek, Meridian 8000 at 75k GBP a pair I would not get to six figures for a 5.1 set up. 40 years ago when I could hear frequencies beyond 15kHz I might have even considered a system like that but not now. Some of the life style steaming all in one pair of dsp active speaker systems have all the quality of sound with so much convenience.
Loved your review guys! I have listened to some previous version of the A9, probably the 1st gen, and what pulled me in headlong was listening to MLTR's Paint my love, at ever increasing volume at a store, and suddenly realizing that the snare drum wasn't getting harsher, in the way it ALWAYS happens with every passive speaker and so on. Long story short, for the first time I understood how effective a weapon DSP (or the like) is, but for me personally, while I definitely don't own one, I will always look at these with longing. (Oh, and did I mention I love how these look?)
Although I love B&W of late, you cannot convince me there is a better looking lineup of products, then B&O currently on the market period. Every single product they make looks top notch, beautiful and stylish no matter what room you try to place it in. Whoever is the designer for the brand right now, bravo! I will absolutely switch to a fully smart, wireless system, once it offers everything I need, like HDMI Arc, phono (not so much now with BT turntable) but nice to have, and especially great sound and design. This is nearly perfection to me. Great review guys!
Thanks Vadym. The Beosound 28s will do everything you just described albeit at a price, but I can attest to the BT turntable connection to them as being a match made in heaven! They do surround sound wirelessly --no HDMI needed!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews that’s awesome! I just gotta make sure my other kidney is still ripe for sale 😂 but in all seriousness I’ll definitely consider it at some point.
@@gavriushka You’re welcome. You could then stream the turntable throughout your house with Beolink Miltiroom. Didn’t really make a lot of sense in my smallish apartment back then, but I had a Beoplay M3 in the bathroom that could play whatever was playing in the living room.
Oh so tell you eh . . . Your B & O experience goes back 20+ years, mine closer to 40 years long before I could afford it. My friends were blown away by the B & O Biolab 8000 mk2. Nothing had ever looked like or performed like those.
Darn you & your good reviews with cool speakers. 😂 I need to stay FAR away from the b&o store. Speaker i use by far the most is my UE hyperboom since it sounds good & goes about anywhere & drowns out most of the kids yelling. Maybe thats not good...
Bang and Olufsen was pivotal in my hi-fi journey, because as a kid, nothing drew me in like those systems they had with the moving glass doors and moving CD shuttles. I do not own any of their kit today, but I have to say they have always been objects of wonder And I might not be into audio as much without them.
My hifi journey started about 4 years ago in my early 40s. I was not really interested in hifi before 2019. I listened to music but just on whatever I had in av system or on headphones from phone. But in early 2019 my mom wanted a new record player for her old records . I helped her get one, an all-in-one as that's the room she had. But listening to the records sparked something in me. Now my whole hifi journey has mainly involved thrift stores as I don't have the budget for things that are seen on this channel. But you would be amazed what people donate, and with a little work can get them sounding great. Most audiophiles would still scoff at what I use but for having collected dozens of pieces for less than one set of speakers seen here I can't complain. And it sounds amazing to me and the projects with the units give me a great hobby. Plus it's a way to try crazy setups without breaking the bank. I love seeing the high end equipment and still dream of having them. But I'll always be happy with my thrifting hifi. That's my story.
First of all - excellent review. I enjoy hearing both perspectives and personal stories as they relate to music and audio equipment. Secondly - I need to comment on B&O products in general. Their audio is pleasing to me. However, I must admit, a large part of my decision to purchase their products is driven by their design which is across the board AMAZING. In fact, design had a lot to do with my purchase of the NAD M10. So, my audio / personal story is that the way it sounds is the most important, but the way it looks ( and the user interface / experience ) is a close second.
Andrew, you asked for our Hi-Fi story. Here is mine: When I was a kid, I had a portable 8-track player. The tape slid into the side of it. The thing had one 4" speaker. Well, I also played guitar. One day my father bought me this huge guitar amplifier. It stood about 3 feet tall and had a 15" speaker. It didn't take long for me to figure out that I could take the 1/4" plug out of my guitar and plug it into the headphone jack of that 8-track tape player. My Rush 2112 album had never before sounded so awesome! The fidelity was probably horrible, but to this 12 year old, it was the biggest sound I had ever heard. Plus, the guitar amp had a reverb dial which made it sound like Rush was playing in a big concert venue! This was way before DSP and Dolby surround. Also, paging through the home stereo sections of the big Sears and JC Penney catalogs got me into Hi-fi gear.
Great review specially the part with Kristi was very insightful. Still it would be interesting to see a review on the Sonia Era 300, even if it’s a little difficult working with them as a brand.
I feel like ive gotten my spouse and 3 kids into audio. I feel like i hit s balance between quality and ease of use. I own lifestyle proucts from sonos, yet also have separates. Remember, people first....priducts second. Cheers!
That combination of style, technological advancement and satisfying performance has been B&O’s jam for well over half a century. Been in the hobby myself since the early ‘60s, and the brand was always felt to be other side of my fiscal comfort zone, but in retrospect there were years in which the cost of turnover and depreciation chasing the FOMO could easily have paid for a pair of Pentas. Currently rocking a DIY built three channel ICE Power amp in my HT system, so I guess there’s a little bit of B&O in my home after all.
My journey started when my stepdad introduced me to hifi speakers! He's had speakers ranging from $500 each to $3,000 each. My mind was blown away! (While I don't have high-end speakers at this point) my wife and I still enjoy dancing to the music of my Klipsch towers. Those are the moments I enjoy the most. With humans never knowing how much time we have on the earth. Every moment sent with my wife and kids will forever be treasured. It's the joy of them tower's that helps bring that joy! It's only a matter of time before I will have higher end speakers. For now there just fine to me! Kristi great conversation at the end.. those moments are the moments you such never take for granted.
18:55 My HiFi story could be summed up like this… I wish I could go back in time before I ever knew audiophile terms like Imaging & Soundstage existed. That was back when I truly just enjoyed listening to my stereo instead of constantly analyzing & judging my gear for what it doesn’t do and always thinking…”is this audiophile enough?” “Is this what other more seasoned audiophiles would consider a proper 2 channel system?” I almost wish I never went down this rabbit hole because I feel like what I have will never be enough. There’s always a better amp, a better pair of speakers, a better turntable with a better cartridge, a better DAC, a better pair of speaker wires, a better treated room, etc etc… It never fucking ends in this hobby. Like an over zealous painter that doesn’t know when to stop adding to a painting that’s already a masterpiece.
Excellent review!! One of these days I plan to give a B&O product a shot. Love how their stuff looks and everything you have said about them just sounds awesome. My “gateway” to hifi was Boston Acoustic. When I was in college (late 90s) I bought simple bookshelf speakers and a small sub and just LOVED their midrange centric sound. So smooth and relaxing. I still have them and pop them on from time to time just for the hell of it and still enjoy them. Also a Boston acoustic system in my car contributed as well. And that feeling of an experience for me is vinyl when I started collecting that about 7-8 years ago. Just love the whole experience of popping one on, reading the artwork while listening and chilling out.
They do outdoor speakers (via dealers) that are really cool as well as in ceilings for a whole home audio distribution. But this or the Balance amzn.to/3bblRkh is a good place to start if you want to dip your toes into B&O.
Loved the review, especially Kristi's comments. My hifi journey began as a 13 yr old kid with his first all-in-one stereo and visiting any record shop I could find. Fast forward about about 35 years and I now get to share the experiences with my 16yr daughter who just loves music. The hobby has given me a lifetime of pleasure of just listening to music and to now share it with my kid, it's truely something special to me.
My mom worked for B&O in the late 70s/early 80s and we had their Beomaster 2400 with the chunky silver button remote that was ultrasonic, the beogram turntable and B&O speakers with stands that raised the speakers maybe a foot off the ground. I knew the stuff was cool, but didn't realize most stereos didn't look like that. And here's the thing..... that Beomaster was a 30 watt x 2 receiver. You would NEVER know.
On a whim, I just picked up a time capsule Beosystem 2400 (Beomaster 2400 w remote, Beocord 1900, Beogram 3404, Beovox 45-2, no stands). After getting it all cleaned and lubed it all works like a champ. I’m very pleasantly surprised at what 1979/1980 gave us. Normally into lots of other audio brands but I’m digging this old system. Your mom had great taste.
Great video and discussion at the end! My one concern would be long-term app support, as someone who has an old Klipsch airplay speaker (G-17 Air) that has had repeated issues with the app becoming so dated that it stops working whenever a new version of iOS is released.
I have an A9 mk2 that I’ve had for a couple of years. Got to agree with the review, though I’m sure the latest mk5 sounds better. To Kristis point, I think the design itself lends itself to encourage people to listen. The design of the product is inviting and anytime someone comes over they always ask what it is. You put your hand on it, and it starts playing. No need to even think about what you should listen to or how, it can take care of it for you. It can suit any space, and while it’s large it’s not dominating. I think it’s one of b&o’s best designs and will be considered a classic for years to come. There’s a reason why they’ve made 5 versions. While I’m sure stereo pairing would sound incredible, I feel it defeats the point of the speaker. The A9 plays a perfect balance between form and function that not many other products can.
excellent description. a few questions, i heard the mk4 in store a few months back and it sounded awesome, but i think it would be hard to find a spot for it. so did you put it in a corner like where a recliner would go? that’s why i ended up going with a Balance and Level.
Kristi, that was some of the best advice I have heard about getting your family to enjoy music together. With the $10 of equipment I have around the house, it’s the citation smart speaker we have in the bedroom that gets used almost every day by my wife because it is easy.
I think you make a really good and compelling point in this video - especially Kristi. Everyone's HiFi experience will be different and enjoyed on varying levels. Currently I'm running the KEF LS50 Metas powered by an NAD M10 V2 and it's great - for me. I'd never begrudge someone their own enjoyment of a somewhat/completely different product. In fact, to most 'casual' HiFi folks, I often recommend Sonos, for just ease of use and financial proposition. I used to have a pair of Sonos Fives and they were great for what they were. what's interesting is that when I was younger (late teens, twenties) I placed more emphasis on an amazing pair of headphones than any speaker system. I was always around others, or in a small apartment, and didn't want to bother anyone else - especially because I wanted to enjoy music loudly and really illicit an emotional response. All this to say, everyone's journey with musical equipment will be different, just as everyone has different financial or musical restrictions. I think this A9 will suit a great many people, especially for those HiFi folks who prioritize ease of streaming over anything else. Cheers!
One of your best reviews, of course. I confess to checking out all kinds of hi-fi review sites, even hardcore objectivist forums (one of which was actually instrumental in my getting the best system I ever owned), but you both - especially Kristi - hit the nail on the head. When I get chills or a tear in my eye because of an album, song, or even 5-second snippet, it is because I am no longer focused on the quality of my gear, but the artistic experience of having my mind, body and spirit moved by someone's talent. It helps that some of my favorite music was recorded for less than the cost of a decent sofa (the first albums by the Ramones and Nirvana come to mind), but it really is all about the music. People get into vicious shouting matches on the internet about break-in, cables and so forth - where truly hurtful things are said - as if any of that matters AT ALL when Patti Smith introduces Gloria, or Tyler the Creator gets my butt moving without my permission, and on and on. I listened to hair metal and classic rock as an '80s teen on an NAD receiver with Polk bookshelves (they had 5 in their name and were pretty big). I remember them being placed high up near the ceiling and sideways, but can't even tell you if the tweeters were on the inside or outside: I knew nothing, except that Hendrix playing the Star-Spangled Banner was something I wanted to hear again. And again. First wife insisted on small, all-in-one-surround systems that took up very little space and SUUUUCKED. Recently, second (and last) wife encouraged me to get what I loved, within budgetary reason. (She is not in the hobby, really, but is encouraging enough not to make a difference). Played around for a bit before settling on KEF LS50WII with 2 KC62 subs, and: whattayaknow! They don't take up a lot of space, sound great, and also offer some of the simplicity and convenience you discuss in this video. So, just as I am done getting married forever, I am done (for now!) chasing perfect sound. Now, if you'll excuse me, got a date with Megan Thee Stallion, or is it Tina Turner? Liz Phair? Decisions, decisions...
Heyy @Andrew Robinson, here's my hifi journey: I'm relatively new to this hobby. I've been watching your videos for like 3 years, but I wasn't able to actually spend money on this. My first speaker was this little google home mini, and it barely sounded better then my phone😅, but you know, I was 14, so i was exited. A couple years later, I decided it was time for an upgrade, so i got 2 google nest audio's, and I was happy again. Now, a couple of month's ago, I turned 18 and I decided to treat myself to a pair of Kef lsx ii. My mom and dad thought I was crazy, but I knew what i wanted. I feel like having a conversation about this part of the hobby is important. Where ever someone might be in there hifi journey, they'll always want to upgrade something in their system. Now I'm at a point where I'm trying to learn how to be satisfied for a long time (also cause I aint spending no more money, I'm a student now😂). But anyway, I really liked how kristi mentioned at the end that she finally listenes from a relaxed mindset, without the little audiofile stresses that we often have. I thought that was really inspiring. Okay haha sorry for this ramble, see you all next video!👋
17:18 The difference though is that those speakers 30+ years ago didn’t have all the quickly outdated technology (WiFi protocols, wireless connections). If B&O were clever/cared about longevity/environment/waste management, they would make a removable module in the speaker of the newer models and it alone could be removed/replaced/updated… because the speaker hardware itself lasts much longer.
That kind of stuff is updated with software. Indeed, they do very much care about the longevity of their products and they put a great deal of effort, time, money into the software. Wi-Fi is not outdated, nor USB, they been around for more than 20 years, same with Bluetooth. I suppose one could imagine a scene in which your speaker is bricked, although I can't imagine any realistic one.
I’m not sure if you’re aware, all B&O Mozart platform products have precisely what you’re proposing. They have a removable streaming module, and for those products that have batteries, these are user replaceable also. Apparently the streaming modules are significantly overspecced by current standards to support future software upgrades. I have a Beosound Level, you take the grill off and and can remove the brains and battery 👌
This is one of the best reviews you've ever done! I have owned 3 different versions of the A9 in the past. Kristy made a very profound statement "finding a unit that makes your partner and kids want to be next to you/closer to you" that triggered a thought of how much my kids had fun with this unit. It used used to be a selfie background for them, swoping and changing covers on it. There's more happy memories of us when we had the A9 and this video just took me there. This is very personal review and thank you for restoring my momeries with it and I might just pull a trigger on this unit! I'm B&O collector myself and this review is very special. I give thanks once more.
I sold hi-fi in the 70's and early 80's. We sold B&O, but I didn't sell much of it. Problem was that I saw their main draw as styling, with "acceptable" sound quality. And all of my B&O customers didn't really care about price. They loved having a piece of art. Maybe something has changed since then.
The emotion and truth from this review is what was key for me!! #DoSomeGood.... It has been a life goal of mine as long as I have had memory. Well done Andrew and Kristi... :)
I think it is important to point out that, there will always be speakers that sound better than a bang & olufsen speaker for the same price. But $ / audio is not what B&O is all about, it will never be your best bang for buck depending on how you view it. B&O offers carefully designed furniture speakers no other company makes, this is why they cost more. So if you can't really view B&O this way, then you probably shouldn't consider or judge the company or their products at all.
I got into HiFi as a young kid. Grade school age. My dad was an A/V repair tech, so we always had lots of “units” around the house. I sneaked into the attic and grabbed an old Kenwood KR-6200 (which we still have) and hooked it up to some old RadioShack speakers to make my first system. I would become a car audio tech myself in my 20s, and have gone through too many car and home systems to mention here. But have landed with a set of Marantz Model 30/30N with Tannoy Stirling GRs in the house, and CDT speakers and amps in the car.
Hi @Andrew and @Kristi! Been looking a lot of your reviews and been meaning to give you a feedback for your absolutely amazing work! I could consider myself as an audioholic of sorts but i've never come across with anyone putting out reviews of audio systems before in a way so clear, as yourself To put it simply; anyone can understand you! And that is the fundamental issue of everyone giving out reviews and i guess it just comes out naturally, when you truly know, what you're talking about? And i have to raise one particular specialty for your reviews, and that would be B&O speakers. There is simply no one else to put them authentically on the line with everyone else as you do! To explain further this personal importance, is that i've had always B&O products together with, what you should call as a "high-end" and simply because of the aesthetics. For instance, i consider, that one doesn't need a but a one high-end "station" and the rest of the house would rather be for aesthetics and comfortable ambience combined with simplicity and minimalism. Another reason is the so called "B&O enthusiasts" who often seem to have somewhat religious traits, that can't be reasoned with. On the other side high-end enthusiasts seem to be allergic to B&O and what i'm always looking for, is the non-biased comparison and there You have finally filled that void, so i salute You and express my gratitude for the great work you've done! Oh, and as you have took your better half along, it would somehow reason how my significant other watches your reviews til the end, even thou she has no interest on the matter such as i do but finds your content to be interesting. That seems to complete the whole meaning of your way of delivering the experience. And if i may suggest something, is the rather new Beolab 8 and a somewhat similar smart-speaker of Apple HomePod to be reviewed as a stereo-pair simply because, there aren't any good reviews about both of them in a sense of audio-focused way. Oh, and the Phantom Mini for that same framework! I wish all the best for you guys, cheers!
Lovely review. One of your best. I would love to hear you review some older B&O stuff that is still popular/relevant, like the Beolab Penta's for example!
Thanks to both of you for this brilliant video on the A9. Partnering traditional hi-fi components can be a bit of a headache, as can be the listening experience from one day to another. This A9 just might be THE solution. Love your reviews by the way! Cheers, Tom.
I fell in love with B&O several years ago when I started flipping 1970 - 1980s stereo equipment on eBay. I heard my first B&O equipment - a Beocenter 3500 with a B&O S-45 speakers that stopped me in my tracks. The sound was awesome. I initially thought B&O was just design over sound, but I was wrong. Since then I bought a lot of B&O gear and was always satisfied. The sound is pure and powerful, the backward compatibility was mostly honored, and the quality always felt top notch. Loved your review and now I want to buy a set of A9s. They are not just "lifestyle products" they are quality systems that deserve more respect.
My process largely consisted of a) figuring out my own preferences and b) understanding that my preferences (or someone else's) are not universal truths. The last one can be tough because the subjective aspect of the hobby can be surprising if not baffling. :)
I love your B&O Reviews bc they are so personal. For everyone who wants to get a comparably cheap entry in the B&O World, i can recommend an underrated stereo configuration. I have BeoLab 3 with a BeoLab 11 on a Core and it’s just Mindblowing stereo experience for the living room. Sold my stereo Devialet system for it, which I bought new.
My first hifi system was a B&O receiver (stereo amp with tuner) and a B&O turntable. I bought it second hand for my own money at the age of 14. I loved that system.
Its beautiful, and clearly would be a conversation / show piece, would love to experience it.. My hifi story started early on, my dad had a rack of technics that came from the american express catalog, and my grandfather a fisher studio standard that i think was from speigel. We would regularly have family get togethers and something was always playing through the system. There was nothing like 4x 15" 3-way speakers to upset the neighbors. In my teens, i saved all of my pennies and bought a yamaha HTIB from bestbuy, because my dad himself wanted a yamaha. It was my first experience with home theater, which itself was relatively new (we were in the format wars) and i was in a house with dialup. That system showed me that satellites and a subwoofer could replace giant cabinets when done well. My first car had a sound system that was worth more than the vehicle it was bolted into, i was going to school for electrical engineering, did all of my own work, and eventually got a job installing electronics at a shop. I had the opportunity to be around new equipment from great manufacturers every day, and was able to participate in programs from manufacturers to demo their gear in my vehicle. In the last 20 years, i don't think there has ever been a time where i didn't own more speakers or equipment than i knew what to do with, right now for example i have a pair of RTI10, a pair of episode bookshelves, and auto equipment from mosconi, focal, audiofrog, and boston just waiting for me to decide that i need them in my life again. As I write this, i feel that i have spent far more time chasing what could be and not enough time enjoying what is. One of the best things that i ever did was setup a pretty basic whole home audio system. A couple chromecast audios connected to a 12 channel amplifier in my closet that is wired to speakers throughout the house (all in i spent around 2500$). Whats interesting about that arrangement is that i don't have an expectation of fidelity, so instead i just enjoy the music. Maybe thats what made the A9 special for you? When we sit in a dedicated listening area staring at bookshelves on stands, in a chair that is measured to be centered perfectly, we are listening to the music expecting sonic perfection and looking for nuance in the details. Sometimes we need to stop listening to the speakers and instead take some time to listen to the music. Also Kristi, i can totally relate, my kids music does suck :). (just kidding, i heard your points loud and clear)
Just took some time to listen to the a9 at the local b&o store. My lord its good. Only listened by its self, and in mono, but it was much more than i thought it would be. It holds small details and delicate inflections perfectly, while digging low when it should.
Leave it to BnO... to make sonos speakers look cheap. 3800 bucks...it better sound good. For me... same money... paid for off set smoker, 10 slabs of brisket and TWO denon home 350 heos portable speakers. Wife, kids and I love them. All the streaming and music functions i LOVE about heos.
Andrew and Kristi, long time viewer. I like the production values and the balanced reviews. Your personable screen presence and Kristi’s personable audio presence are a drawing card for sure. I don’t have any qualifying opinion on the A9. I’m guessing few people have ever seen/heard this or many other B&O products. At $5-6K, this is in the stratosphere of one off sound purchases for most. And, that is just it with all decent sound gear buying. It is a privileged space that can only be inhabited by the few. All efforts to justify it on other grounds are doomed to fail. I’m never able to justify my sound and Music obsession as anything other than what it is I.e. a rare pleasure that I’m fortunate enough to indulge myself with.
I love this. And yes, I would ABSOLUTELY consider getting this product. Why? Because I have MORE THAN ONE ROOM IN MY HOUSE 😅. My story: exactly like Kristi my Dad was an old school HiFi guy with full separates, tower speakers etc. for me, I still love that and have a full system for when I want to do ‘serious’ listening. Having said that I ALSO run the HT-A9 Sony system in my living room (based on your review!) and LOVE IT. I also have a simple system of old B&W 684s and a power Node in another room. Bluesound pulse in the Kitchen, etc. they are all GOOD WAYS TO LISTEN depending on the setting. TL/DR: just STFU about idealism and enjoy the damn music, my fellow nerds. 😂
QotD: B&W DM603 S2 speakers ruined my HiFi journey for 20 years. Back in the late 90s, I "upgraded" my first speakers, the Mission 731 at around £150 (which I still love) to the B&Ws at around £700.... I shrugged my shoulders for 20 years... Then came lockdown = TH-cam on all sorts of subjects... Klipsch RP-600M, and a vintage Sansui amp purchase, and.... OMG, I'm back! Now in possession of the new Mission 770.. but cannot decide on a new amp...Help !
Great review, this is in the mountain bike price category. Probably get a new bike for the wife before I get something like this. Thank you guys for your effort on this.
I started getting interested in hi-fi gear when I started playing in bands in the late 1970s and into the mid-1980s. I couldn't afford much gear so I would buy used cassette players/recorders and reel to reels to record music I was writing and the bands I played in. This was right before some affordable home 4 track cassette recorders became available. I had a friend who worked at a boutique hi-fi shop (long gone now) and he turned me on to KEF, Nakamichi and Phase Technology speakers and equipment. But the biggest jump was when I traced an NAD dealer who sold stuff out of his furniture store. The gentleman, Art, loved music and he turned me on to NAD, PSB and Martin Logan and sold stuff to me at big discounts because he loved music. That was my gateway drug which led me, as I can now afford stuff but pretty much have a cap on prices so I almost always buy used, to what I have now which I'm almost completely satisfied with other than some tweaks.
i bought a used, very old CRT TV from bang and olufsen for playing retro gaming consoles and, i was missing some accessories for it and i just went to the closest B&O dealer and they were super happy for me and they helped me a lot getting everything for it to work. Bang and Olufsen resellers are incredibly passionate and are always happy to help you even if you come in the stores with a product you bought used somewhere else and that is definitely not something i can say about most brands
You made me drooled.... I've got some B&O in my hands in the 80's, already amazing... But critical for me : how enveloping is a speaker like that, can you forget where it seats while listening ? I love good sound, but more than anything I always pair or connect two speakers to get rid of their locations, few speakers can do that solo. It doesn't need to be stereo bouncing all over the place, just spacial enough to not make my head lean toward the source of music... Is that the ONE doing that ?
I’m a single dude making 120k a year and you guys make me feel broke! 😂 You guys have more money invested in Bluetooth speakers alone than all the gear in my entire stereo system. I’ll be there one day. 😎
In my fantasies, B&O is always at the top of my food chain while my family's needs can compromise to drop to a lower tier, hungry or not. Now, back to reality. =)
It's true that their newer stuff can be really expensive, but you can find some amazing prices on the late 80's up to mid 90's stuff, and some of that is very worth every penny! Find a working Beosystem 2500, or even a Beocenter 9000, and you'll be so glad you did.
My grandfather and his brother in law were heavily into hi fi. Fortunately he had the money to indulge this passion from the early 50s up until the time of his death in the 00s. He passed this on to my father who had excellent technics vinyl equipment in the 70s and 80s, and indeed I think he purchased one of the first CD players in the UK. My brother and I quickly fell into line, at first heavily dependent on generous hand me downs (although I still use a Sony turntable in my office which is 40 this year...). Lurching into my personal journey, my ex wife was not a fan of hi-fi equipment in a room so there was a period I left the hobby behind, and to be honest had kind of abandoned it, other than for quality lifestyle products. Then came covid, spending a lot more time at home with my (now) wife and our daughter who arrived mid lockdown. I gingerly suggested given we were spending so much time at home that we might invest in some "proper" speakers and AV equipment, which was embraced with far more enthusiasm than expected! Turbo-charged by channels such as yourself (for which I owe you sincere thanks), we are now up to three setups, all of which include vinyl playback, in the house, often with severe cases of upgraditis. We're currently building a holiday house in the highlands (Scotland), and a regular topic of conversation and debate is what audio setups we will install in due course...
13:40 - 16:00 is important to me. Im in my mid forties, married with two kids around 10 years old. To bring in your wife and kids to come in and want to share and enjoy not only your music but their music also can bring so much joy that it cannot have a price put onto it, and makes your investments do much worth while. I have recently just done my lasted speaker and amp upgrade which I hope to last 20 years, and chose components based on not just the music I listen to, but the music we as a family listen to.
AR...This message is for Kristie! K. My friend in Austin (where I live....and I wish you guys would of stayed) purchased some POLK R500 (white) speakers. I REALLy think you need to check these out....They are the most BEAUTIFUL speakers I have seen! Slim and gorgeous (like you ha ha) KNOW you guys have reviewed this line, but not this model (check Zero Fidelity review of r500 model) Yes nice sound/ but gorgeous look ( you have a great aesthetic tastes-like to hear you opinion!) THNX CCC Austin, TX
I remember I went to the B&O store with my dad about 4 years ago and the Beolab 90s were in a demo and I asked to listen and they played music wirelessly from their TV. The sound was a little disappointing when equating to the price and hyper entered around them. I asked to listen to music on their Beolab 18 and 19 stereo combo and I’ve never heard music as crisp as that setup! To this day it is still the setup I want but the price is just way out of my reach.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews it is a gorgeous speaker, my goodness. My partner described it as the "ultimate picnic blaster". She said they should have made plaid options hahaha. The brown one looks like a damn car filter. The color we got fits the picnic blanket scene well...and is overkill in terms of SPL. It's somewhat portable. It's heavy!! We've been using the little Bose micro soundlink guy and that thing is so enjoyable. Also keen on the JBL flip 5 and 6. It surprises me almost every time. I've heard so many of these portable speakers you guys. I also build portable vintage suitcase bluetooth boomboxes so I have an ear for the stuff. Regarding bluetooth speakers, ya'll know the bass is always flabby and artificial. The A5 has minor "traits" of the traditional, bluetooth, signature sound, but oh man, the low end is actually decent. It will dig pretty deep and not fatigue you. Indoors the bass out of the box is ridiculous and shocking. I could type for a while about it but I gotta go make dinner for my family. My only grip is, you have to manually disconnect bluetooth on your device when you power the A5 down. I'm considering sending it back JUST for that lol.
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What's better, the A9 or the 28?
Can connection to cable aux supra 3.5 mm jack for Pro Display XDR Mac Mini M2 Mac Studio M2 Max Mac Studio M2 Ultra?
Guess where I am / what I'm doing right now? If you watched the whole video, you already know. Thank you to those who do. ❤
Best "room" in the house.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews It really is. 🥰
Next chat with B&O, maybe request a home test sample of a 97” Harmony and pair of Lab28s.
It’s only money 😂
Outside, listening to B & O.😂
@@amgguy4319 Coffee and biscotti or chocolate drizzled croissants involved?🥐☕️
Kristi makes the most important point anyone could make in Hifi reviewing, when she speaks about "looking forward to using the product everyday"!!! In case you missed it folks, that's what hifi is all about!! It couldn't be more plain or better put than that, because when you have that one quality going for you then you really have done something right!
😍
I look forward to listening to my open FR driver plus boxed woofer, speakers every day. They give me so much joy that it makes me so glad I'm alive! 😅
I have been listening to my stereo system since 1970 when I bought à Sonata NS 1600 amp (8w per ch) and a simple turntable (just the platter, belt, motor and metal base plate and tone arm (a really long one, all chrome) bought separate to the turntable and l made a box for the turntable, and a SURE cartridge then $20. And built my own 6" single driver speaker boxes for my 6" single drivers. My first system. 😅
That's how I feel about Bose SoundLink Flex. Use it everyday.
I repeat it any time you review a B&O product, but your is the only "credible" youtube channel able to do it properly, and transmit the feelings and the real experience that come from these speakers. Great job as always, and thanks for this video.
Appreciate you saying that and watching Alberto.
Best and most heartfelt video I’ve seen from you guys and the one I can relate the most, especially the monologue section where Kristi confesses of how she rediscovered music through those speakers and can’t stop listening to them instead of worrying about how she will get to the “ideal sound”. I feel EXACTLY like that about the B&W Formation Duos and I can’t thank you enough guys for your review on them and how they ended up changing my approach to HiFi listening.
Now, I don’t know how they compare sonically to the A9 (it will be interesting to know) but boy have I rediscovered music. It has solved all my issues snd hassle about trying to find the right amp preamp, DAC, sub that will match, because B&W has done it for me in a smart active speaker format. And they have done it in the best way they feel their signature sound will be represented. Short signal path, optimised drive unit behaviour to amplifier, dynamic EQ, full control over dynamic unit behaviour, DSP, those are some of the benefits a smart active speaker will give you and in the process take away the time consuming, pricy headache (for many people fun way) to try, play around and find what match is right for you. If you get goosebumps right away and can’t look forward to come back home to listen to music; I mean what more do you need, isn’t what we most strive for from our “ideal” system?
Sincerely appreciate your comment and I thank you so much for sharing your experience with everyone!
I really loved this review and video. Congrats both Andrew and Kristi on getting an A9, and I'm so glad you both enjoyed it.
My audio journey started really young, born in 1983, and MTV was my favorite station to watch by the time I was 5. My Dad had a Pioneer SX-828 receiver, PL-12D turntable, a Technics cassette deck, all running to a pair of Bang & Olufsen Beovox S45-2 speakers. I was always in love with this stereo system, and wanted my own. I went through a lot of different items as a young kid. GE radio, Panasonic radio that I still own (early 90's), to an older 1970's RCA receiver with built in 8 Track player, and a set of some kind of hifi speaker. A few different Sharp Walkmans, and a Sony Discman in the late 90's. I was able to get a Pioneer SX-828 of my own when I turned something like 13 years old. It was one that my uncle owned, and gifted to me for my birthday. I had saved up money by getting a paper rout, and went to my local hi-fi store (RIP Audio Village), and bought a pair of Pioneer CS-G304a speakers. I used that set up for many many years.
I also had some pretty decent car audio equipment, as it was the first time in my life that I was allowed to get some freedom from the home, get away from the parents, and listen to what I wanted to, at a loud level. Lots of Pioneer car audio, and Panasonic as well. Mixed with different subwoofers from Pioneer, Kenwood, and some other brands I'm just forgetting.
In 2010 I bought my first house, set up my living room with the Pioneer SX-828, and CS-G304a speakers. I've also had a Kenwood 5 disc changer, and when that broke, I bought a Sony ES 5 disc changer that I still own today. I also got back into records at this time. The B&O speakers my dad had left an impression on me, and I bought a Beogram 1602 turntable with a working MMC 20EN cartridge. Around this time I was trying a lot of different turntables. My Dad's old PL-12D, the 1602, an Audio Technica AT-PL-120, a Pioneer PL-510A. After jumping around a lot, I found that the 1602 was the best sounding of all the turntables I owned, but it was getting pretty beat up too. So I found a Bang & Olufsen RX2 that was in basically mint condition. I put a new belt on it, and bought a new Sound-Smith SMMC 3 cart, and then found that the phono pre amp I had (Cambridge) was not well made, and was leaking voltage back to the cartridge. So I then upgraded that to a Musical Fidelity V90, and was really happy with that set up for a while.
All of that got me really into the B&O bug, and I wanted a full B&O system. I had a living room in my lower level that would collect odd and ends of odd hi-fi equipment, but around 2018 I decided to go deeper into the B&O rabbit hole. I started by buying a Beomaster 5500, Beocord 5500, and a Master Control Panel 5500, running to my Dad's old S45-2 speakers. I then got a Beogram 5005 as well, but the Beomaster was a bit of a mess at times, and the MCP had major issues too. The person who sold me the Beogram 5005 was a huge B&O nerd, and we both were on the Beoworld forums, so we ended up becoming pretty good friends, and he helped me repair the Beomaster 5500 and MCP to the point where everything worked as it should. However, I saw he had a Beocenter 9000, and I was in awe of how cool that system was, and how it worked. I told him if he ever wanted to sell that, I wanted it. Well, he had another in storage that was in good condition looks wise, but needed some work.
I got the Beocenter 9000, it is in near mint condition and works flawlessly. I picked up a pair of Beolab Penta Mk I speakers, a matching Beogram 9000, Beolink 1000, and even the Active 10AM antenna. It's a gorgeous system and I just love when I get to listen to it. The Penta's were a huge project, but turned out good. I love the flexibility of the system. I have a Pioneer 8 Track player hooked up to it, built in cassette, CD, AM, FM, an Audioengine Bluetooth B1, and the Beogram turntable. It's crazy how versatile it is.
I've since picked up Bang & Olfusen H6 headphones, H7, H9i, E6, and H95's. Beoplay Active A2, a set of Beolab 4000's Mk II (love them), Beocenter 9500 (huge project in the works), Beomaster 7000, and Beogram CD 7000 (also a project).
There is still a lot for me left to do, but eventually I want a pair of Beolab 5's. Thanks to anyone who read this.
I love that you do B&O reviews. They make some very good products but rarely get reviewed.
I can understand your arguments very well. I was and am a bit of a gear junkie, but it became too complicated and too complex to use for "just listening to music". So some time ago I switched to active speakers (older Elac Air-X 207 with manual room correction) and only connected a turntable and CD Player. It was an almost liberating step without any loss of sound. I don't have to keep thinking about whether this or that device fits, whether an upgrade might help or whatever the origin of the dissatisfaction is. I'm sure I'll switch to a full smartspeaker at some point...just keep my Alva TT V2 ;) ...(and a CD player - Yes I grew up in the 90s ;) )
I've just bought the A9 and wow it's gooooood we have a big living room and kitchen in one and it's play music crystal clear , we are a couple in our 50th and we are dancing together almost every day since we got even our youngest daughter that still lives at home join us ❤ thank you B&O
I love to hear this!
B&O is exceptional in taking care of you as a customer. I had an issue with stereo pairing two Beosound Emerge. Around two-three days of back and forth emails, they escalated it. They CALLED ME and made sure I tried everything possible. Before even saying “OK, we will take them back” they brought the problem to their engineers and pushed a tailored update TO MY SPEAKERS!!! Just to fix them. Never had an issue since. I became a devout follower and have no intention of going back. If I need more speakers I just wait until I can afford one. They’re incredible.
I got into it when I saw your Beosound Stage review a couple of years ago and I’ve been your fan ever since. Great content, as always!!
My life changed after buying my first b&o speaker. Theres is honestly a sound that is truly special, not only the sound, but the design, the history, the quality. Its honestly something else. Ive had speakers of different quality through out my life, but b&o changed my life.
I started with a couple of used beolap 4000, added a couple of used beolap 8000. Then i bougt a beosound moment and now ive got of almost new couple of beolap 8000 and beo lap 3's and a subwoofer. Its continues to blow my mind. I wouldnt have it anyother way.
Really appreciate you sharing!
Loved Kristi’s comments about just enjoying the music. Keep up the great work, guys!
High school in the 70's meant every guy I knew had a stereo. Yes mixed tapes were a thing, but basically if you weren't sure if you wanted an album that you found out someone had, you went over and heard it on their stereo. Fast forward a few decades and I got back into audio by hunting craigslist and then online forums. Traveling around New England to buy/sell meant I got to move up the audio ladder over the course of the last 12 years or so. Finally arriving at an Audio Research vsi60 tube amp and Sonus Faber Signum based system I think I got to hear some pretty nice gear, but now I'm nearing retirement and to prepare for a retirement move, I'm selling it all. However, I do want one good BT speaker and this might be the solution. I think lots of people are looking for a less-is-more solution.
Greetings from Singapore, Andrew & Kristi,
Wish to say this is such a heart warming review.
I have been a B&O fan for decades and am still using a pair of Lab9 speakers with a BV10 TV. Masterlinked to a Beosound 9000.
Even own their now discontinued cabinets.
Brought joy to both my wife and myself for years. And can certainly relate to both your sentiments.
Wishing you both and all your channel subscribers great health and joy.
Thanks Shane! Appreciate you watching and sharing your thoughts.
Beolab 9's and a Beousound 9000!? That's awesome!
I have been a B&O customer since 1989 when I bought my first and only turntable the Beogram RX2. B&O puts so much care, design, and quality in their products that almost everyone can find a very nice product that works for them, both musically, and financially. I have several of their portable bluetooth speakers(2 Beolit 15s and a Beolit 20) and that beautiful turntable which is over 30 years old now. I wish more companies gave as much thought to their products and took as much care manufacturing them as B&O does. The A9 is really out of my budget now, but the tech that they have developed to make that speaker as amazing as it is, is also, in different forms in other B&O products, and they really are all, beautiful, and amazing things.
Good morning fam! Thanks for another great Sunday edition! Andrew, I've never even considered a smart speaker as a listening option. I believe it's because I've never heard a premium option - or at least something that sounds good. I have a background in media. So, for years, the recording studio (studio monitors) was the extent of my exposure to powered speakers of any sort outside of Sonus 👎. (The recording studio was also the start of my journey into sound). Thank you for opening my mind. I'll explore this. And ,thank you Kristi for highlighting how we can experience our audio journey with our partners. My wife has come along in my journey to an extent. I still haven't gotten her to cross the DMZ to the audiophile experience.😅So thanks for sharing. Be well my friends!
Love your comment DaWayne! Thank you! And I hope you get to experience B&O products sometime in the not too distant future, if for no other reason than to see what's out there.
Had an A9 for 7/8 years in y bedroom - its a true great, and the sounds signature is just so very lovely.
I have been looking at the A9 for so long now it is silly. They have advanced it so many times and I am just still looking haha. Your video has made me think I might decide to get one. The problem is that I have already decided that I will never ever get ONE Bluetooth speaker again. I will only get speakers that can be stereo paired. The sound is too good to miss out on. That mehaveI have to find £6000 from somewhere.
Your videos and monologues are so enticing. I love listening to you and Kristi (especially Kristi😊) talk about what the speakers have done in your life.
My P6 stereo pair live in a very special place in my heart. The sound is lush and luxuriou as ,speakers of that size and shape have no right to be. They are just lovely.
In my office I have no reason to have more however for where I will be living the A9 might be the speaker that makes our whole family spend an evening istening again.
Love this video.
I once was someone who was thinking I needed to get an amp and I was daunted by the prospect of having to choose which one to get - tube, solid state, etc.
With modern active speakers of this quality, this goes away and I am closer to simply choosing the music.
I love that.
I may ditch the idea of even looking for amps. Not a bad thingg for those who want to do it. I just want to listen to the music.
A9.... (Or maybe the 28s in a few years more) Hmmmm.
I woud love to hear how you think the level and the new Beosound A5 compare to the Balance which youjnhave in your kitchen.
I really would love to get your take on the Balance.
It has been described as a mini Beolab 90 because of its many drivers.
What do you think and how do you rate the sound produced.
BTW - it is sompletely reasonable to compare all of these speakers - it is about what you want and how you listen.
I remember in your review of the Beosound Level - you said that you wre ejust listening to it after having listened to some higher end speakers.
People will do that.
Also someone may hear one of these speakers and simply never need ot go anywhere else in their life to listen to their music.
Thanks again for the video. You both do such a great job describing speakers.
Looking forward to the next one and I am already going to go to a store and have a listen to the A9 ..... just a taste.
I’m really happy that this speaker gets more exposure, because it really is that exceptional. It doesn’t hurt either that it’s also stunningly beautiful.
Excellent video! 🎉
Thanks so much for watching!
My problem with B&O is they can’t stand up to being hit with a huge chunk of ice from my neighbors gutter - Todd
Clark!!!
😂😂
HAHAHAHAHA Nice!
I love Bang & Olufsen for adding Airplay and Chromecast to their own multiroom option. We’re a mixed Apple/Android household, everyone uses different streaming services, so this flexibility is fantastic.
The flexibility is clutch with these new products as I agree it allows more people to enjoy the speakers on their terms rather than the technology's.
Refreshing discussion and thoughts about the enjoyment of music and how it makes you feel and connect. Applies to me with photography and my Leica Q2.
I love music and I wore out my folks console, blew up the speakers when they went to separates, and told my fiance (now wife of 47 years), that I would always have a good system in the house. We had 3 music professors in the family and they gifted some very profound albums and I wore those out also.
I've actually owned B&O products since I was a teenager, but over the years, especially with their software issues and short cycles 10-15 years ago, especially with the Beosound Moment, I turned my back on the brand a bit. Today I still own a Beovision 5 and an A1, as well as the old Beolab 4000 (which still sound great despite their age, driven by a Bluesound). I would like to buy more stuff from them again because i love there desgin, but they should be more flexible with other brands (I will never give up piega Cl90x in combo with my naim unitiy nova, because with these I rediscovered my music) and integrate roon for example.
Very cool review. I love tech but hearing about how something makes you feel is the best part. Thank you.
I've been into hi-fi for close to 30 years now and currently have a near six figure system. However, that system (or any really high end system) only performs to capability in dedicated/treated spaces that, honestly, aren't enjoyable to spend time in. The result is that I find myself listening to it less and less and have a harder time connecting with music because it has become too much like work. Makes me miss the days of playing my boom box in my bedroom or hanging out with the car stereo blasting as a kid. Maybe something like this is the answer - bring good music back to the space I where I want to be.
45 years ago I was invited to bring my hi-fi in to the store's demo room and let compare it with what they would have picked and choices as upgrades. I thought, I expected, to spend 100 or so on a new cartridge. I spent 40% of my annual salary on turntable, arm, cartridge, pre-amp and active speakers. The turntable has been upgraded twice (same Linn Sondek well it looks the same) and the pre-amp and speakers maintained but not replaced. They have been moved around from a two room flat to a house, a bigger house and then bungalow. They have remained the sound stage of all the music, radio, television and movie watching from the outset eventually included in a 5.1/7.1 system.
I would like to replace them as due to age repairs take longer and being big floor standing speakers take up a lot of space. As the music gets transferred to the digital jukebox I don't need racks to hold vinyl, CD, DVD or Blu-ray. Even the most expensive system that I would consider to replace them ~ 24k GBP current Linn Sondek, Meridian 8000 at 75k GBP a pair I would not get to six figures for a 5.1 set up. 40 years ago when I could hear frequencies beyond 15kHz I might have even considered a system like that but not now.
Some of the life style steaming all in one pair of dsp active speaker systems have all the quality of sound with so much convenience.
Loved your review guys! I have listened to some previous version of the A9, probably the 1st gen, and what pulled me in headlong was listening to MLTR's Paint my love, at ever increasing volume at a store, and suddenly realizing that the snare drum wasn't getting harsher, in the way it ALWAYS happens with every passive speaker and so on. Long story short, for the first time I understood how effective a weapon DSP (or the like) is, but for me personally, while I definitely don't own one, I will always look at these with longing. (Oh, and did I mention I love how these look?)
My cat would love it.
Although I love B&W of late, you cannot convince me there is a better looking lineup of products, then B&O currently on the market period. Every single product they make looks top notch, beautiful and stylish no matter what room you try to place it in. Whoever is the designer for the brand right now, bravo!
I will absolutely switch to a fully smart, wireless system, once it offers everything I need, like HDMI Arc, phono (not so much now with BT turntable) but nice to have, and especially great sound and design. This is nearly perfection to me. Great review guys!
Thanks Vadym. The Beosound 28s will do everything you just described albeit at a price, but I can attest to the BT turntable connection to them as being a match made in heaven! They do surround sound wirelessly --no HDMI needed!
Most of B&O’s speakers also have an analogue line-in. I used a B&O streaming speaker with a turntable + preamp for over 10 years. Fun times!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews that’s awesome! I just gotta make sure my other kidney is still ripe for sale 😂 but in all seriousness I’ll definitely consider it at some point.
@@frankbernharduebler great tip, thanks!
@@gavriushka You’re welcome. You could then stream the turntable throughout your house with Beolink Miltiroom. Didn’t really make a lot of sense in my smallish apartment back then, but I had a Beoplay M3 in the bathroom that could play whatever was playing in the living room.
Oh so tell you eh . . . Your B & O experience goes back 20+ years, mine closer to 40 years long before I could afford it. My friends were blown away by the B & O Biolab 8000 mk2. Nothing had ever looked like or performed like those.
Darn you & your good reviews with cool speakers. 😂 I need to stay FAR away from the b&o store. Speaker i use by far the most is my UE hyperboom since it sounds good & goes about anywhere & drowns out most of the kids yelling. Maybe thats not good...
Emotional comments, really touching. It's not about equipment, it's about relationship right? With people, with brands.....moments.
Bang and Olufsen was pivotal in my hi-fi journey, because as a kid, nothing drew me in like those systems they had with the moving glass doors and moving CD shuttles. I do not own any of their kit today, but I have to say they have always been objects of wonder And I might not be into audio as much without them.
My hifi journey started about 4 years ago in my early 40s. I was not really interested in hifi before 2019. I listened to music but just on whatever I had in av system or on headphones from phone. But in early 2019 my mom wanted a new record player for her old records . I helped her get one, an all-in-one as that's the room she had. But listening to the records sparked something in me. Now my whole hifi journey has mainly involved thrift stores as I don't have the budget for things that are seen on this channel. But you would be amazed what people donate, and with a little work can get them sounding great. Most audiophiles would still scoff at what I use but for having collected dozens of pieces for less than one set of speakers seen here I can't complain. And it sounds amazing to me and the projects with the units give me a great hobby. Plus it's a way to try crazy setups without breaking the bank. I love seeing the high end equipment and still dream of having them. But I'll always be happy with my thrifting hifi. That's my story.
First of all - excellent review. I enjoy hearing both perspectives and personal stories as they relate to music and audio equipment. Secondly - I need to comment on B&O products in general. Their audio is pleasing to me. However, I must admit, a large part of my decision to purchase their products is driven by their design which is across the board AMAZING. In fact, design had a lot to do with my purchase of the NAD M10. So, my audio / personal story is that the way it sounds is the most important, but the way it looks ( and the user interface / experience ) is a close second.
Andrew, you asked for our Hi-Fi story. Here is mine: When I was a kid, I had a portable 8-track player. The tape slid into the side of it. The thing had one 4" speaker. Well, I also played guitar. One day my father bought me this huge guitar amplifier. It stood about 3 feet tall and had a 15" speaker. It didn't take long for me to figure out that I could take the 1/4" plug out of my guitar and plug it into the headphone jack of that 8-track tape player. My Rush 2112 album had never before sounded so awesome! The fidelity was probably horrible, but to this 12 year old, it was the biggest sound I had ever heard. Plus, the guitar amp had a reverb dial which made it sound like Rush was playing in a big concert venue! This was way before DSP and Dolby surround. Also, paging through the home stereo sections of the big Sears and JC Penney catalogs got me into Hi-fi gear.
Great review specially the part with Kristi was very insightful. Still it would be interesting to see a review on the Sonia Era 300, even if it’s a little difficult working with them as a brand.
I feel like ive gotten my spouse and 3 kids into audio. I feel like i hit s balance between quality and ease of use. I own lifestyle proucts from sonos, yet also have separates. Remember, people first....priducts second. Cheers!
It fits wonderfully into your interior design 🤩
It’s such a unique looking speaker.
Very! Appreciate you watching!
And it sound fucking amazing!
That combination of style, technological advancement and satisfying performance has been B&O’s jam for well over half a century. Been in the hobby myself since the early ‘60s, and the brand was always felt to be other side of my fiscal comfort zone, but in retrospect there were years in which the cost of turnover and depreciation chasing the FOMO could easily have paid for a pair of Pentas.
Currently rocking a DIY built three channel ICE Power amp in my HT system, so I guess there’s a little bit of B&O in my home after all.
My journey started when my stepdad introduced me to hifi speakers! He's had speakers ranging from $500 each to $3,000 each. My mind was blown away! (While I don't have high-end speakers at this point) my wife and I still enjoy dancing to the music of my Klipsch towers. Those are the moments I enjoy the most. With humans never knowing how much time we have on the earth. Every moment sent with my wife and kids will forever be treasured. It's the joy of them tower's that helps bring that joy! It's only a matter of time before I will have higher end speakers. For now there just fine to me! Kristi great conversation at the end.. those moments are the moments you such never take for granted.
😍
100% Nick, you get what this hobby is about (or supposed to be about).
@@KristiWright good morning Kristi.. I hope your enjoying Andrews famously made coffee 😂
@@andrewrobinsonreviews good things come to those who wait... Hard work in the end will pay off!!
@@movie_av_impulse You know it!! He's spoiled me for drinking anything but his. :) Happy Sunday!
18:55 My HiFi story could be summed up like this… I wish I could go back in time before I ever knew audiophile terms like Imaging & Soundstage existed. That was back when I truly just enjoyed listening to my stereo instead of constantly analyzing & judging my gear for what it doesn’t do and always thinking…”is this audiophile enough?” “Is this what other more seasoned audiophiles would consider a proper 2 channel system?”
I almost wish I never went down this rabbit hole because I feel like what I have will never be enough. There’s always a better amp, a better pair of speakers, a better turntable with a better cartridge, a better DAC, a better pair of speaker wires, a better treated room, etc etc… It never fucking ends in this hobby.
Like an over zealous painter that doesn’t know when to stop adding to a painting that’s already a masterpiece.
Wow!! Thanks for this amazing Review! Love the way you see the 'portable' speaker, BnO are incredible!
Excellent review!! One of these days I plan to give a B&O product a shot. Love how their stuff looks and everything you have said about them just sounds awesome.
My “gateway” to hifi was Boston Acoustic. When I was in college (late 90s) I bought simple bookshelf speakers and a small sub and just LOVED their midrange centric sound. So smooth and relaxing. I still have them and pop them on from time to time just for the hell of it and still enjoy them. Also a Boston acoustic system in my car contributed as well. And that feeling of an experience for me is vinyl when I started collecting that about 7-8 years ago. Just love the whole experience of popping one on, reading the artwork while listening and chilling out.
They do outdoor speakers (via dealers) that are really cool as well as in ceilings for a whole home audio distribution. But this or the Balance amzn.to/3bblRkh is a good place to start if you want to dip your toes into B&O.
I have a Beosound 3200 with beolab 800 for 30 Years and i Love it. 😎🇩🇰
Loved the review, especially Kristi's comments. My hifi journey began as a 13 yr old kid with his first all-in-one stereo and visiting any record shop I could find. Fast forward about about 35 years and I now get to share the experiences with my 16yr daughter who just loves music. The hobby has given me a lifetime of pleasure of just listening to music and to now share it with my kid, it's truely something special to me.
My mom worked for B&O in the late 70s/early 80s and we had their Beomaster 2400 with the chunky silver button remote that was ultrasonic, the beogram turntable and B&O speakers with stands that raised the speakers maybe a foot off the ground. I knew the stuff was cool, but didn't realize most stereos didn't look like that. And here's the thing..... that Beomaster was a 30 watt x 2 receiver. You would NEVER know.
On a whim, I just picked up a time capsule Beosystem 2400 (Beomaster 2400 w remote, Beocord 1900, Beogram 3404, Beovox 45-2, no stands). After getting it all cleaned and lubed it all works like a champ. I’m very pleasantly surprised at what 1979/1980 gave us. Normally into lots of other audio brands but I’m digging this old system. Your mom had great taste.
Great video and discussion at the end! My one concern would be long-term app support, as someone who has an old Klipsch airplay speaker (G-17 Air) that has had repeated issues with the app becoming so dated that it stops working whenever a new version of iOS is released.
Hearing Kristi like that about a product, that says it all
I have an A9 mk2 that I’ve had for a couple of years. Got to agree with the review, though I’m sure the latest mk5 sounds better.
To Kristis point, I think the design itself lends itself to encourage people to listen. The design of the product is inviting and anytime someone comes over they always ask what it is. You put your hand on it, and it starts playing. No need to even think about what you should listen to or how, it can take care of it for you.
It can suit any space, and while it’s large it’s not dominating.
I think it’s one of b&o’s best designs and will be considered a classic for years to come. There’s a reason why they’ve made 5 versions.
While I’m sure stereo pairing would sound incredible, I feel it defeats the point of the speaker. The A9 plays a perfect balance between form and function that not many other products can.
excellent description. a few questions, i heard the mk4 in store a few months back and it sounded awesome, but i think it would be hard to find a spot for it. so did you put it in a corner like where a recliner would go? that’s why i ended up going with a Balance and Level.
@@jumbocrunchh I have it in a corner in the living room pointing towards the typical listening area
@@Stevejobs722 okay
Kristi, that was some of the best advice I have heard about getting your family to enjoy music together. With the $10 of equipment I have around the house, it’s the citation smart speaker we have in the bedroom that gets used almost every day by my wife because it is easy.
Kristi, right on cue reading our minds about those 28s. 😂
And 18s .-)
I think you make a really good and compelling point in this video - especially Kristi. Everyone's HiFi experience will be different and enjoyed on varying levels. Currently I'm running the KEF LS50 Metas powered by an NAD M10 V2 and it's great - for me. I'd never begrudge someone their own enjoyment of a somewhat/completely different product. In fact, to most 'casual' HiFi folks, I often recommend Sonos, for just ease of use and financial proposition. I used to have a pair of Sonos Fives and they were great for what they were. what's interesting is that when I was younger (late teens, twenties) I placed more emphasis on an amazing pair of headphones than any speaker system. I was always around others, or in a small apartment, and didn't want to bother anyone else - especially because I wanted to enjoy music loudly and really illicit an emotional response. All this to say, everyone's journey with musical equipment will be different, just as everyone has different financial or musical restrictions. I think this A9 will suit a great many people, especially for those HiFi folks who prioritize ease of streaming over anything else. Cheers!
One of your best reviews, of course. I confess to checking out all kinds of hi-fi review sites, even hardcore objectivist forums (one of which was actually instrumental in my getting the best system I ever owned), but you both - especially Kristi - hit the nail on the head. When I get chills or a tear in my eye because of an album, song, or even 5-second snippet, it is because I am no longer focused on the quality of my gear, but the artistic experience of having my mind, body and spirit moved by someone's talent. It helps that some of my favorite music was recorded for less than the cost of a decent sofa (the first albums by the Ramones and Nirvana come to mind), but it really is all about the music. People get into vicious shouting matches on the internet about break-in, cables and so forth - where truly hurtful things are said - as if any of that matters AT ALL when Patti Smith introduces Gloria, or Tyler the Creator gets my butt moving without my permission, and on and on. I listened to hair metal and classic rock as an '80s teen on an NAD receiver with Polk bookshelves (they had 5 in their name and were pretty big). I remember them being placed high up near the ceiling and sideways, but can't even tell you if the tweeters were on the inside or outside: I knew nothing, except that Hendrix playing the Star-Spangled Banner was something I wanted to hear again. And again. First wife insisted on small, all-in-one-surround systems that took up very little space and SUUUUCKED. Recently, second (and last) wife encouraged me to get what I loved, within budgetary reason. (She is not in the hobby, really, but is encouraging enough not to make a difference). Played around for a bit before settling on KEF LS50WII with 2 KC62 subs, and: whattayaknow! They don't take up a lot of space, sound great, and also offer some of the simplicity and convenience you discuss in this video. So, just as I am done getting married forever, I am done (for now!) chasing perfect sound. Now, if you'll excuse me, got a date with Megan Thee Stallion, or is it Tina Turner? Liz Phair? Decisions, decisions...
Why can't other speaker companies think out of the box like B&O?
I agree. Maybe their look isn't always for everyone, but at least they're trying.
Your closing statement says it all , just enjoy and be thankful fot allthe great reviews !!!😊👍👍
Absolutely stellar review. And superb advice Kristi! Thank you!
Heyy @Andrew Robinson, here's my hifi journey:
I'm relatively new to this hobby. I've been watching your videos for like 3 years, but I wasn't able to actually spend money on this.
My first speaker was this little google home mini, and it barely sounded better then my phone😅, but you know, I was 14, so i was exited.
A couple years later, I decided it was time for an upgrade, so i got 2 google nest audio's, and I was happy again.
Now, a couple of month's ago, I turned 18 and I decided to treat myself to a pair of Kef lsx ii. My mom and dad thought I was crazy, but I knew what i wanted.
I feel like having a conversation about this part of the hobby is important. Where ever someone might be in there hifi journey, they'll always want to upgrade something in their system. Now I'm at a point where I'm trying to learn how to be satisfied for a long time (also cause I aint spending no more money, I'm a student now😂).
But anyway, I really liked how kristi mentioned at the end that she finally listenes from a relaxed mindset, without the little audiofile stresses that we often have. I thought that was really inspiring.
Okay haha sorry for this ramble, see you all next video!👋
Thanks for recommendation of the Nordic Lodge Copenhagen radio station.
17:18 The difference though is that those speakers 30+ years ago didn’t have all the quickly outdated technology (WiFi protocols, wireless connections). If B&O were clever/cared about longevity/environment/waste management, they would make a removable module in the speaker of the newer models and it alone could be removed/replaced/updated… because the speaker hardware itself lasts much longer.
That kind of stuff is updated with software. Indeed, they do very much care about the longevity of their products and they put a great deal of effort, time, money into the software. Wi-Fi is not outdated, nor USB, they been around for more than 20 years, same with Bluetooth. I suppose one could imagine a scene in which your speaker is bricked, although I can't imagine any realistic one.
at the end of the day it is a speaker with an amp...plug the line in and listen till the world end. There is nothing else to it
I’m not sure if you’re aware, all B&O Mozart platform products have precisely what you’re proposing. They have a removable streaming module, and for those products that have batteries, these are user replaceable also. Apparently the streaming modules are significantly overspecced by current standards to support future software upgrades. I have a Beosound Level, you take the grill off and and can remove the brains and battery 👌
@@dcpayne5264 I didn't know all that, thanks a ton.
This is one of the best reviews you've ever done! I have owned 3 different versions of the A9 in the past. Kristy made a very profound statement "finding a unit that makes your partner and kids want to be next to you/closer to you" that triggered a thought of how much my kids had fun with this unit. It used used to be a selfie background for them, swoping and changing covers on it. There's more happy memories of us when we had the A9 and this video just took me there. This is very personal review and thank you for restoring my momeries with it and I might just pull a trigger on this unit! I'm B&O collector myself and this review is very special. I give thanks once more.
Thank you for sharing your personal story, Kgomotso. I'm so glad this one resonated with you.
@@KristiWright oh boy it did.
I sold hi-fi in the 70's and early 80's. We sold B&O, but I didn't sell much of it. Problem was that I saw their main draw as styling, with "acceptable" sound quality. And all of my B&O customers didn't really care about price. They loved having a piece of art. Maybe something has changed since then.
雖然我的英文能力不好，但我還是喜歡看你評鑑音響器材，輕鬆有趣又實用！❤
The emotion and truth from this review is what was key for me!! #DoSomeGood.... It has been a life goal of mine as long as I have had memory. Well done Andrew and Kristi... :)
Thank you so much for the extra love.
Nice personal connection in this review.
I think it is important to point out that, there will always be speakers that sound better than a bang & olufsen speaker for the same price. But $ / audio is not what B&O is all about, it will never be your best bang for buck depending on how you view it. B&O offers carefully designed furniture speakers no other company makes, this is why they cost more. So if you can't really view B&O this way, then you probably shouldn't consider or judge the company or their products at all.
I got into HiFi as a young kid. Grade school age. My dad was an A/V repair tech, so we always had lots of “units” around the house. I sneaked into the attic and grabbed an old Kenwood KR-6200 (which we still have) and hooked it up to some old RadioShack speakers to make my first system. I would become a car audio tech myself in my 20s, and have gone through too many car and home systems to mention here. But have landed with a set of Marantz Model 30/30N with Tannoy Stirling GRs in the house, and CDT speakers and amps in the car.
Appreciate you sharing your story Michael!
God I love u 2. It’s not just about your equipment. But what it does 2 u.
Hi @Andrew and @Kristi!
Been looking a lot of your reviews and been meaning to give you a feedback for your absolutely amazing work! I could consider myself as an audioholic of sorts but i've never come across with anyone putting out reviews of audio systems before in a way so clear, as yourself To put it simply; anyone can understand you! And that is the fundamental issue of everyone giving out reviews and i guess it just comes out naturally, when you truly know, what you're talking about?
And i have to raise one particular specialty for your reviews, and that would be B&O speakers. There is simply no one else to put them authentically on the line with everyone else as you do! To explain further this personal importance, is that i've had always B&O products together with, what you should call as a "high-end" and simply because of the aesthetics. For instance, i consider, that one doesn't need a but a one high-end "station" and the rest of the house would rather be for aesthetics and comfortable ambience combined with simplicity and minimalism.
Another reason is the so called "B&O enthusiasts" who often seem to have somewhat religious traits, that can't be reasoned with. On the other side high-end enthusiasts seem to be allergic to B&O and what i'm always looking for, is the non-biased comparison and there You have finally filled that void, so i salute You and express my gratitude for the great work you've done!
Oh, and as you have took your better half along, it would somehow reason how my significant other watches your reviews til the end, even thou she has no interest on the matter such as i do but finds your content to be interesting. That seems to complete the whole meaning of your way of delivering the experience.
And if i may suggest something, is the rather new Beolab 8 and a somewhat similar smart-speaker of Apple HomePod to be reviewed as a stereo-pair simply because, there aren't any good reviews about both of them in a sense of audio-focused way. Oh, and the Phantom Mini for that same framework!
I wish all the best for you guys, cheers!
Lovely review. One of your best. I would love to hear you review some older B&O stuff that is still popular/relevant, like the Beolab Penta's for example!
Thanks to both of you for this brilliant video on the A9. Partnering traditional hi-fi components can be a bit of a headache, as can be the listening experience from one day to another. This A9 just might be THE solution.
Love your reviews by the way! Cheers, Tom.
Theres a bang and Olufsen store in Orlando and i have been meaning to stop by and check it out purely based on your obsession with this brand 😂
You should! It's a fun experience.
I fell in love with B&O several years ago when I started flipping 1970 - 1980s stereo equipment on eBay. I heard my first B&O equipment - a Beocenter 3500 with a B&O S-45 speakers that stopped me in my tracks. The sound was awesome. I initially thought B&O was just design over sound, but I was wrong. Since then I bought a lot of B&O gear and was always satisfied. The sound is pure and powerful, the backward compatibility was mostly honored, and the quality always felt top notch. Loved your review and now I want to buy a set of A9s. They are not just "lifestyle products" they are quality systems that deserve more respect.
My process largely consisted of a) figuring out my own preferences and b) understanding that my preferences (or someone else's) are not universal truths. The last one can be tough because the subjective aspect of the hobby can be surprising if not baffling. :)
100% and pretty much the conversation I attempted to have with Alfio below.
I love your B&O Reviews bc they are so personal. For everyone who wants to get a comparably cheap entry in the B&O World, i can recommend an underrated stereo configuration. I have BeoLab 3 with a BeoLab 11 on a Core and it’s just Mindblowing stereo experience for the living room. Sold my stereo Devialet system for it, which I bought new.
I have Beolab 11 Beolab 3 Beosound Overture and Beosound core all hooked in together it’s fantastic
My first hifi system was a B&O receiver (stereo amp with tuner) and a B&O turntable. I bought it second hand for my own money at the age of 14. I loved that system.
Those older B&O console systems were so amazing for their time.
Its beautiful, and clearly would be a conversation / show piece, would love to experience it..
My hifi story started early on, my dad had a rack of technics that came from the american express catalog, and my grandfather a fisher studio standard that i think was from speigel. We would regularly have family get togethers and something was always playing through the system. There was nothing like 4x 15" 3-way speakers to upset the neighbors.
In my teens, i saved all of my pennies and bought a yamaha HTIB from bestbuy, because my dad himself wanted a yamaha. It was my first experience with home theater, which itself was relatively new (we were in the format wars) and i was in a house with dialup. That system showed me that satellites and a subwoofer could replace giant cabinets when done well.
My first car had a sound system that was worth more than the vehicle it was bolted into, i was going to school for electrical engineering, did all of my own work, and eventually got a job installing electronics at a shop. I had the opportunity to be around new equipment from great manufacturers every day, and was able to participate in programs from manufacturers to demo their gear in my vehicle.
In the last 20 years, i don't think there has ever been a time where i didn't own more speakers or equipment than i knew what to do with, right now for example i have a pair of RTI10, a pair of episode bookshelves, and auto equipment from mosconi, focal, audiofrog, and boston just waiting for me to decide that i need them in my life again. As I write this, i feel that i have spent far more time chasing what could be and not enough time enjoying what is.
One of the best things that i ever did was setup a pretty basic whole home audio system. A couple chromecast audios connected to a 12 channel amplifier in my closet that is wired to speakers throughout the house (all in i spent around 2500$). Whats interesting about that arrangement is that i don't have an expectation of fidelity, so instead i just enjoy the music.
Maybe thats what made the A9 special for you? When we sit in a dedicated listening area staring at bookshelves on stands, in a chair that is measured to be centered perfectly, we are listening to the music expecting sonic perfection and looking for nuance in the details. Sometimes we need to stop listening to the speakers and instead take some time to listen to the music.
Also Kristi, i can totally relate, my kids music does suck :). (just kidding, i heard your points loud and clear)
Just took some time to listen to the a9 at the local b&o store. My lord its good. Only listened by its self, and in mono, but it was much more than i thought it would be. It holds small details and delicate inflections perfectly, while digging low when it should.
For those who can't stretch to a pair of A9's, are there any traditional bookshelf or floor standers that come close to sonic signature of the A9's?
Regardless of whether I'd like the sound, I think it's one of the coolest-looking speakers I've ever seen.
It's super cool inside and out! Thanks for watching!
Leave it to BnO... to make sonos speakers look cheap. 3800 bucks...it better sound good. For me... same money... paid for off set smoker, 10 slabs of brisket and TWO denon home 350 heos portable speakers. Wife, kids and I love them. All the streaming and music functions i LOVE about heos.
You know the two of you could just switch places on this channel here. Just saying.
Best speaker i’ve ever own!
Just checking back in y’all’s channel is still great & getting better all the time. Great job.
Andrew and Kristi, long time viewer. I like the production values and the balanced reviews. Your personable screen presence and Kristi’s personable audio presence are a drawing card for sure.
I don’t have any qualifying opinion on the A9. I’m guessing few people have ever seen/heard this or many other B&O products. At $5-6K, this is in the stratosphere of one off sound purchases for most. And, that is just it with all decent sound gear buying. It is a privileged space that can only be inhabited by the few. All efforts to justify it on other grounds are doomed to fail. I’m never able to justify my sound and Music obsession as anything other than what it is I.e. a rare pleasure that I’m fortunate enough to indulge myself with.
I love this. And yes, I would ABSOLUTELY consider getting this product. Why? Because I have MORE THAN ONE ROOM IN MY HOUSE 😅. My story: exactly like Kristi my Dad was an old school HiFi guy with full separates, tower speakers etc. for me, I still love that and have a full system for when I want to do ‘serious’ listening. Having said that I ALSO run the HT-A9 Sony system in my living room (based on your review!) and LOVE IT. I also have a simple system of old B&W 684s and a power Node in another room. Bluesound pulse in the Kitchen, etc. they are all GOOD WAYS TO LISTEN depending on the setting. TL/DR: just STFU about idealism and enjoy the damn music, my fellow nerds. 😂
QotD: B&W DM603 S2 speakers ruined my HiFi journey for 20 years. Back in the late 90s, I "upgraded" my first speakers, the Mission 731 at around £150 (which I still love) to the B&Ws at around £700.... I shrugged my shoulders for 20 years... Then came lockdown = TH-cam on all sorts of subjects... Klipsch RP-600M, and a vintage Sansui amp purchase, and.... OMG, I'm back! Now in possession of the new Mission 770.. but cannot decide on a new amp...Help !
This bit.ly/3YKWQSh
@@KristiWright thank you. I've actually been considering the Audiolab 9000A, and Billie Amp MK 2. Any plans to review, please?
We reviewed the 9000A, but no plans for the Billie.
Great review, this is in the mountain bike price category. Probably get a new bike for the wife before I get something like this. Thank you guys for your effort on this.
I started getting interested in hi-fi gear when I started playing in bands in the late 1970s and into the mid-1980s. I couldn't afford much gear so I would buy used cassette players/recorders and reel to reels to record music I was writing and the bands I played in. This was right before some affordable home 4 track cassette recorders became available. I had a friend who worked at a boutique hi-fi shop (long gone now) and he turned me on to KEF, Nakamichi and Phase Technology speakers and equipment. But the biggest jump was when I traced an NAD dealer who sold stuff out of his furniture store. The gentleman, Art, loved music and he turned me on to NAD, PSB and Martin Logan and sold stuff to me at big discounts because he loved music. That was my gateway drug which led me, as I can now afford stuff but pretty much have a cap on prices so I almost always buy used, to what I have now which I'm almost completely satisfied with other than some tweaks.
i bought a used, very old CRT TV from bang and olufsen for playing retro gaming consoles and, i was missing some accessories for it and i just went to the closest B&O dealer and they were super happy for me and they helped me a lot getting everything for it to work. Bang and Olufsen resellers are incredibly passionate and are always happy to help you even if you come in the stores with a product you bought used somewhere else and that is definitely not something i can say about most brands
You made me drooled.... I've got some B&O in my hands in the 80's, already amazing... But critical for me : how enveloping is a speaker like that, can you forget where it seats while listening ? I love good sound, but more than anything I always pair or connect two speakers to get rid of their locations, few speakers can do that solo. It doesn't need to be stereo bouncing all over the place, just spacial enough to not make my head lean toward the source of music... Is that the ONE doing that ?
Okay, so it sounds like my Danish fellowmen have achieved to implement Danish "hygge", into a speaker. Which sounds like it should be unachievable.
I’m a single dude making 120k a year and you guys make me feel broke! 😂 You guys have more money invested in Bluetooth speakers alone than all the gear in my entire stereo system.
I’ll be there one day. 😎
In my fantasies, B&O is always at the top of my food chain while my family's needs can compromise to drop to a lower tier, hungry or not.
Now, back to reality. =)
It's true that their newer stuff can be really expensive, but you can find some amazing prices on the late 80's up to mid 90's stuff, and some of that is very worth every penny! Find a working Beosystem 2500, or even a Beocenter 9000, and you'll be so glad you did.
My grandfather and his brother in law were heavily into hi fi. Fortunately he had the money to indulge this passion from the early 50s up until the time of his death in the 00s. He passed this on to my father who had excellent technics vinyl equipment in the 70s and 80s, and indeed I think he purchased one of the first CD players in the UK. My brother and I quickly fell into line, at first heavily dependent on generous hand me downs (although I still use a Sony turntable in my office which is 40 this year...). Lurching into my personal journey, my ex wife was not a fan of hi-fi equipment in a room so there was a period I left the hobby behind, and to be honest had kind of abandoned it, other than for quality lifestyle products. Then came covid, spending a lot more time at home with my (now) wife and our daughter who arrived mid lockdown. I gingerly suggested given we were spending so much time at home that we might invest in some "proper" speakers and AV equipment, which was embraced with far more enthusiasm than expected! Turbo-charged by channels such as yourself (for which I owe you sincere thanks), we are now up to three setups, all of which include vinyl playback, in the house, often with severe cases of upgraditis. We're currently building a holiday house in the highlands (Scotland), and a regular topic of conversation and debate is what audio setups we will install in due course...
13:40 - 16:00 is important to me. Im in my mid forties, married with two kids around 10 years old. To bring in your wife and kids to come in and want to share and enjoy not only your music but their music also can bring so much joy that it cannot have a price put onto it, and makes your investments do much worth while. I have recently just done my lasted speaker and amp upgrade which I hope to last 20 years, and chose components based on not just the music I listen to, but the music we as a family listen to.
AR...This message is for Kristie! K. My friend in Austin (where I live....and I wish you guys would of stayed) purchased some POLK R500 (white) speakers. I REALLy think you need to check these out....They are the most BEAUTIFUL speakers I have seen! Slim and gorgeous (like you ha ha) KNOW you guys
have reviewed this line, but not this model (check Zero Fidelity review of r500 model) Yes nice sound/ but gorgeous look ( you have a great aesthetic tastes-like to hear you opinion!) THNX CCC
Austin, TX
I completely agree with the comments on the aim of B&O
I remember I went to the B&O store with my dad about 4 years ago and the Beolab 90s were in a demo and I asked to listen and they played music wirelessly from their TV. The sound was a little disappointing when equating to the price and hyper entered around them. I asked to listen to music on their Beolab 18 and 19 stereo combo and I’ve never heard music as crisp as that setup! To this day it is still the setup I want but the price is just way out of my reach.
I love you guys. I’m so excited for the A5. Will be coming to my home soon. Any plans to review one?…”if it arrives”
I just recently saw the A5 in person and I'm pretty keen on it, so maybe we'll take a look down the road.
We just saw one in person and it's really nice looking. Let us know how you like it when it arrives.
@@KristiWright will do. Claims 32hz 😂
@@andrewrobinsonreviews it is a gorgeous speaker, my goodness. My partner described it as the "ultimate picnic blaster". She said they should have made plaid options hahaha. The brown one looks like a damn car filter. The color we got fits the picnic blanket scene well...and is overkill in terms of SPL. It's somewhat portable. It's heavy!! We've been using the little Bose micro soundlink guy and that thing is so enjoyable. Also keen on the JBL flip 5 and 6. It surprises me almost every time. I've heard so many of these portable speakers you guys. I also build portable vintage suitcase bluetooth boomboxes so I have an ear for the stuff. Regarding bluetooth speakers, ya'll know the bass is always flabby and artificial. The A5 has minor "traits" of the traditional, bluetooth, signature sound, but oh man, the low end is actually decent. It will dig pretty deep and not fatigue you. Indoors the bass out of the box is ridiculous and shocking. I could type for a while about it but I gotta go make dinner for my family. My only grip is, you have to manually disconnect bluetooth on your device when you power the A5 down. I'm considering sending it back JUST for that lol.