😀Thank you for watching! If you enjoyed this video, please hit the 👍Like button! 🔌Watch th-cam.com/video/hrEl4VCah3Y/w-d-xo.html to get caught up on today’s UNPLUGGED! 🆘 Open the description ⬆for all kinds of info. Still have questions? Hit 🖤 THANKS☝to highlight your Question! 🙏Please stay on topic and be respectful. 🚫No links, self-promotion, or personal info.
How would you compare the Focals to B&W, 703-S3? I have the 703-S3's paired with a Marantz SR5015 AV receiver , and Anthem MCA 525 Gen2 for power. It's my living room sound for everything...movies and music.you always give such positive reviews....I always feel like after watching a new review on a pair of speakers I could be getting something better for the money....Thanks for driving me crazy...lol. Love the channel, thank you and God bless.
I love Kristi taking lead on the presentation structure and as we say here in DC, the whole, "battle rhythm." It is such a good vibe and tempo! We love you too tho Andrew! lol
Gotta say, nice move on this UNGPLUGGED series. Loving the new format of Sunday review with a chilled small-talk over the week, with the superstar Kristi! Really useful and real-life advice! thanks for the good work!
Another great job. Very refreshing to watch an Audio Vlog this week not diving into the Audiophile Tempest Storm of "He who shall not be named." But it begins with a "Tek" and ends with a "Ton."
I've been watching the channel for a while, and just have to say I love these followup/podcast style videos. The longer format conversation between the two of you is so entertaining to watch/listen to. I also really like the Kristi popup with soundwave in the bottom corner. Less distracting than the spilt screen and better flow. You two are the best, keep up the evolution!! Cheers.
Love your channel...been listening for about 4 years. I started listening because my electronics are a denon avr 5600 into a rotel RB-991 200watts x2 amp. I wanted to listen to LOTS of reviews so when something died I'd be ready to replace it. However, features and looks aside, I haven't got the impression that amps and preamps and integrated amps have vastly improved since I purchased mine in the 1990's. While cooler priducts have come along, do they really SOUND better? If you were to review priducts that you did years ago such as Hint 6, MaC7200, michi x3 or 1592 mk 2, AS2200 etc, what progress is the industry making? All i added to my setup is Roon with tidal and a blusound node 2 and it feels current. Anyways... i think it would maybe be an interesting general discussion for a future video. THANKS FOR ALL YOU TWO BOTH DO. I KNOW THAT SOUNDS WEIRD CONSIDERING I HAVEN'T MADE A SINGLE hi-fi purchase during the last 4 years.
Speaking strictly in terms of sound quality and ignoring features, any and all improvements in sound quality at the amplifier level (at least over the past few years) could only be described as incremental at best. Now, features like room correction, or connection options like HDMI can vastly improve a product's performance in terms of usability, but just comparing an amp's sound quality to one that may be a generation or two old from the same brand and of the same class, the differences will be subtle for sure! Thanks so much for your support and for the great question!
Andrew/Kristi what's the best way to send you a couple pics of my dad's vintage gear? My dad's old Pioneer receiver reminded me of the vintage piece you picked up a long time ago. Always appreciate the insight along with the back and forth banter. It keeps everything grounded (see what I did there?) and puts the Audio/Video hobby in perspective. As a former Cedia Certified Installer I watched many customers chase the latest and greatest or tried to keep up with the neighbors instead of enjoying the systems they had. Keep up the excellent detailed reviews and love the unplugged segment.
I'm starting to realize that you guys could be chatting about anything and it would be interesting. Love the dynamic, passion and honesty between you two.
@@chrishamilton5960 Ooooo, you must circle back and tell me your thoughts. I LOVED it. We binged the entire season in about 2 days. I'm also a massive fan of Walton Goggins. He's such a star.
One comparison I didn't see in this was the Focal vs B&W 703 S3. Both are very much in competition with each other and you've reviewed both and I'd like to get your take.
Phantom center: When I upgraded my surround speaker to the Genelec G Three last year I decided to skip the center speaker because to me I did always hear the voices coming from below the TV instead from the actor on screen which I didn’t like. Since the speaker I chose were expensive to me I thought, I first test their imaging (They received great reviews regarding imaging) before buying a center speaker and it turned out I really like the phantom center the speaker were creating. The voices seem to come from the TV in a more diffuse manner so it was better aligning with the actors on screen instead of coming more focussed from the wrong spot most times. So I am having now a 4.1 surround system and pretty happy with the decision while saving some money :)
Selfishly, I really appreciate the comparison with the R700's. I still have yet to hear a better speaker in my listening situation regardless of price and there have been a few :). That was only after I added a Purifi amp to them. I feel your comment about having the right equipment pairing to have them shine was right on the money. They need and crave power. Great episode!
25:45 what’s your top 5 for set and forget speakers at around 5k? I’m really eager to know since I’m probably upgrading to the ls60. Also I’m dying to know your opinion on the B&O Beolab 8 in stereo (mucho expensivo).
I feel like we need an episode desicated to the slats. Why did they go? Was it an amicable parting of ways, a creative disagreement or outright betrayal???
0:17 speaking of slats, where is the construction video, yall changed more than just the slats. I’m curious and want to know the new listening room is looking now.
Andrew, thanks for your response, and the way you framed the difference made sense. I'm a big fan of the point of diminishing return and having chased the audiophile mix-and-match game for years an all-in-one like the KEF for me fits the bill, especially at $5K. BTW, the question about the inverted dome was interesting. I was selling mid to upper-end HiFi in the late '70s and the shop was an Avid dealer. (That was when most of the hot designs came from the I-95 loop around Boston.) The Avids were the only speakers we carried (ADS, Allison, KEF, Celestion, and AVID) that had an inverted tweeter. I remember the rep telling me the inverted tweeter has a wider dispersion than a traditional dome.
About the Martin Logans: I own the XT-F100s. I had met the reps at the show, and sure enough, they said they weren't out to make a neutral speaker. The tipped up bass was deliberate and I eq it down. I currently use a subwoofer, room eq, and an active crossover.
Same, I always listened to music and movies from speakers that were colored in one way or another so while neutrality is the goal of most audiophiles, I just wanted speakers that were fun to listen to. The F100s did that for me and I have no regrets about choosing them over the R7s I was considering.
@@poog6256 I had heard 30 different speakers in twelve hours. KEF was notably absent from AXPONA. Only Klipsch and Zu could beat the Martin Logan's dynamics handily (at least, going by what I was able to hear there). Focals had come closest, but not quite. It can feel like I'm getting shouted at by vocalists when I play lively recordings sometimes with the Logans. Forte IV was livelier still. If anything, I would like to get a second set of speakers, that has different characteristics. MoFi towers had stood out at slightly more than the ML price point, with paper woofers and also good dynamics, but they're also 96 pounds. Logans can't match the soundstage depth of some others. Perlisten and MoFi were the two best in that area. Andrew had seemed pleased!
I know it was a long long time ago, but maybe you can write us your main thoughts if you compare them to the Monitor Audio Silver 500 you tested once… like 2 years ago 😅😊 Thanks!
I had for 3 years the 802D which is one of Andrew’s favorite speakers of all time If I am correct, sold them in pristine condition, complete with boxes and made enough money to buy the Sopra 2 on sale. Personally I feel this was an upgrade ( for my 40square meter sound room) and I would like to see a review and your point of view of this speaker. Still on the market for 9 consecutive years! Always great content, I follow you for quite long now and I am glad you guys doing great 🙏☺️
I really love your channel and appreciate the balance and respect you both show each other in your episodes. It makes me sad how careful and apologetic you’ve been conditioned to be by the TH-cam trolls. Speaking for, what is probably the majority but not in totality, we’re here because we appreciate your thoughts, options and banter. Opinions and questions help to continue the conversation. Critics of the format should simply find another channel to hate on. Again, thank you for what you bring to the hobby!
I did my first system with focals a few years ago and I found the highs extremely fatiguing without doing correction / tuning. I agree that it's great they dialed back the "default" sound, you can always add a little more highs if you prefer / need them. The old sound made focal for me be completely excluded from consideration on any system where there wasn't DSP / Processing of some kind. Focals with the proper tuning are a wonderful thing however.
Another fantastic and informative video. I do enjoy the new concept on your conversations with the smaller likeness of Kristi than the split screen version. And speaking of that likeness, whomever the artist is that made the likeness is extremely talented. I went back a few years on your videos and watched the couple where you and Kristi were record shopping. Excellent likeness! Again, keep up the great work and I look forward to the next conversation. Thanks!
Hello, Kristy and Andrew. I love your type of review/opinions there. For a few months now, I have been the new Focals Aria Evo X; they are replacing the old Focals Kanta's, and indeed they are more civilized :-). But to be honest, I kept my Kantas because in my living room (about 50m²), the Arias need a little bit more ompf given by a sub. I still love the brand Focal for its liveniness. I do have also B&W 804 d3 in my dedicated music room and indeed B&W are a little bit warmer but the highs are almost equal to me. What's your view on this, Thanks John
Hi Andrew & Kristy…. Awesome video! My question is what is that white console below your TV ? And where can I buy it? Thanks in advance…. Cheers! Keep up the good work.
Thank you for all the effort. For great reviews, insights and your down-to-earth take on hifi. Always a pleasure to watch or listen! Keep up the good work 😊
Focal, smoke and mirrors they keep changing the drivers, aramid, flax, slate, back to aramid and back to flax.. the only kanta to buy is the 3, so you are right three levels is all that's needed
From what I hear, the Ascend Acoustics Sierra LX (1,498pr) pack quite a punch for a bookshelf. SVS and Emotiva also feature designs that focus on big dynamics (maybe at the expense of subtleties though).
Super interesting one for me! I purchased a pair of focal thevas- they’re gorgeous but didn’t sound right to my ears. I heard some KLH model 5’s afterwards and they’re everything I could have wanted. Super happy with them. I’ll be keeping an eye on focal in the future though, love the brand.
I have the Choras's and Theva's. They can sound crappy on the wrong amp. They work best IMO with amps that have a lot of body to the sound. Rotel and Marantz in my case. With the Audiolab 6000a something just sounds missing (lean amp paired with a lean speaker). Also the Onkyo RZ-50 made them sound awful. Vocals sounded pinched. Those KLH model 5's sound smooth. What amp have you paired them with?
Greetings from Brazil. Still in the Focal area I have owned the Aria 948 and then pushed the button on a new pair of Sopra 3 due to an apparent good deal with the dealer. Unfortunately there are very few reviews of the sopra and I would like to know how they perform in the range and other speakers you have reviewed. Regards!
Love watching/listening to the two of you doing reviews. I find that you're very close to my own opinions that I trust your opinions on gear that I'm not familiar with. When I say close, I agree with about 85-90% of your reviews of gear that I have heard before. Thanks for all that you do and keep up the great work!
Just noticed about the slats. I liked them, they gave the room texture. But its your crib so you do you. Glad you're admitting that Kristi is he star of the show. I continue to enjoy the content, it's always nice to hear different perspectives. Keep it up and be blessed.
Room treatment is key. Absolute key. Its like tasting wine and switch wine as you go.. You can make a modest or "cheap" speaker sound fantastic with "minor" adjustments compared to buying these crazy expensive speakers that (also need this adjustments btw) sounds a little bit better. If you got the money go! Top notch cables, exp speakers and the lot. But if you are like the most of us. Find a speaker that you like/love and make your room better and stop hunting🙂🇸🇪
About 7 years ago I was seriously A/B-ing Focal Electra 1038be's ($10k) with Aria 948's ($5k) and every track I compared, I found the Aria's to be more fun & engaging. The only area the Electra's excelled was in the highs (the Be tweeter). The Electra's sounded overly refined and damped in the mids & lows. I nearly pulled the trigger on the Aria's, but instead found a pair of used Dynaudio Focus 380's. They lasted about a year, and I sold them. I just didn't love them. I likely would have been happier with the Arias.
Great review of the Focals, hope to check them out sometime soon. Looking forward to your B&W 800 signature series review as well. Are you all going to do video about the interior redesign of your listening/production/ home theater area in the near future? Thank you!
I'm currently in the Sonos ecosystem. Arc + Sub + Ones surrounds for TV viewing and a stereo pair of Fives strictly for music streaming and vinyl listening. I'm very intrigued in the KEF LS60s,. I imagine it will be leaps and bound better than my stereo pair of Sonos Fives, but want to get your take how good they are for movie watching? Would I miss having a full surround home theater setup vs stereo towers or are the KEF LS60s also amazing as a HT? Side note: It would actually be cool to see a surround sound vs stereo setup comparison video for movie watching :)
I use the LS60 for lots of movies and series, not surround ofcourse, but great big sounds, easy to hear voices, and base when needed. Would probably add a sub for home cinema purposes, even if they go deep by themselves
Hi @Robinsonbrand Andrew and Kristi, could you please please!!! compare the new SVS Ultra Evolution Pinnacle Speaker and KEF R11 Meta since that seems to be Kristi's favorite floor standing speakers. Also maybe a compare of the SVS pinnacle titan speakers and the R11 meta since you might not have listened to the SVS
Kristi, you have commented that you really enjoyed the Sonus Faber Lumina II. You also really enjoyed the Mofi Source Point 4. For what reasons did you enjoy each? Without having a side-by-side comparison which would you keep around? And there you have a topic starter for a program of a later date, Kristi’s Favourites.
Thanks for the explanation but waiting for sunday especially about movie watching experience please confirm howmuch close this speaker can place to wall since these are front ported
Good afternoon Andrew and Kristi. Another great discussion. Found the ending discussion particularly interesting. Surprised to see my comment pop up early on. BTW Kristi you are pronouncing my last name correctly in Italian (Booty). Can't help the C part (Chris) LOL. I actually don't even pronounce my own last name correctly. Long story short, over a hundred years ago when the family got off the boat from Italy, the locals bastardized the pronunciation to Butt-eye and we just went with it ever since.
I been trying to stay away from Speaker reviews as I’m on my 3rd pair in 2 years. The Denton 85th Anniversary look like they will stay for the foreseeable future. Love your videos.
The other problem with high-end powered speakers is the fact you a very nice speaker that is tied to electronics which will eventually become obsolete and at some point fail. Thats a pretty big problem for any speaker in the four figure range which should normally last for decades which sadly is never going to be the case for a speaker like the LS60 regardless of how good it is.
I have heard from a couple of electronics failures with active speakers, but it should be rare. However if going the active route maybe find a brand that has a good reputation for repairs?
@@andrewrobinsonreviews I see the active version of the LS50s with dead electronics on eBay pretty often so I'm sure its not a high failure rate but always something that can happen. Plus app support for whatever devices we'll be using in 10+ years would just make me nervous with a $6k speaker.
@@kadajawi2 Its like any other piece of expensive technology. They'll support it for as long as they can but I'm sure they won't stock stuff for 10 - 20 years out.
@@PhillioDoede The same can likely be said for just about any product 20 years down the line. To be fair, we have had way more issues with non-active and what I consider more traditional hifi products showing up not working and whatnot than anything else.
Thank you for responding to my comment on comparing these to the Polk r700s! I haven't heard the aria k2s, but I have heard the thetas and vestias.. and they are quite sibilant (vestias less so).. the store I went to in Singapore played me a few scenes from top gun maverick.. and they were painful to listen to.. the treble was too pronounced and screechy.. so unless the arias manage to tone down on that sibilance and is able to provide details without screechiness.. I would go with Polk reserves all day...
Interesting. Appreciate you filling me in with some more detail. If a speaker is going to sound good or "best" you'd think it would be on the brand's home turf.
Im interested in the kef ls60 and the Elysian Wharfedales, saw you gave the Elysian 10/10 and the Polk Audio R700 9/10, where does the ls60 fit on that scale
Hi A@K. I purchased the LS60s in part because of your review,and like you I wish I had purchased them in Lotus green! Here’s an Idea for a future review. Get ahold of KEF ask for the Lotus edition and review which of their subs kc62 kf92 or the new kc92? Is best match for them. Great job! love the reviews!
9:19 what's up with the shame behind purchasing from Facebook marketplace? I think when buying wether it's new or used, one should be cautious where they're buying from. Many great things sold on Facebook marketplace.
Many scammers out there. I am sure that is what they mean. Buying from a reputable store / dealer may cost more but, you'll have the peace of mind, assurance, warranties, return options & insurance
It was more a be careful especially when (maybe) purchasing something known for costing tens of thousands of dollars as there are a lot of scammers and whatnot out there. It was NOT a judgement call against FB Marketplace and those who may use or rely on it.
Hi Andrew and Kristi! Interesting and informative video, thanks. I have a question for you both: I'm in a huge living room, 35 x 25, high ceilings, on a budget. (Sounds strange but it's true). I was thinking that no matter what tower I purchase in the $5K range, I'd still need sub(s), so I've been leaning toward either the Focal Aria evo X no 1's, or the Fyne F500SP's, on stands, with a pair of REL T9x's. I listen to mostly small group jazz, chamber, and appreciate a flat response with the best soundstage possible. I also love full orchestras, organ pedal tones.., and I do rock out sometimes. In your opinion, considering room and budget, am I heading in the right direction with stand-mounted speakers and two subs? And have you heard both of the speakers I mentioned? I'm talking 5K for speakers in a monstrous room. My previous speakers were Meadowlark Shearwaters, (time aligned 2-way which I loved but they had to go after a few decades). I currently have one REL in a corner and it really changed everything beautifully for the better, so I'm a fan and realize what they can do. - But don't let that sway your opinions/thoughts of my situation. Thanks very much in advance for any thoughts you may have, J
I'm just so confused, I'm about to buy my first speakers with the Marantz cinema 70, starting a 2.1 planning to scale over the years to a 7.1 but there are so many options and they are so expensive for my salary, I'm between the focal aria bookshelves vs Klipsch RP 500 II or 600 II vs monitor audio silver for a small room or even focal aria evo x, and save for a year for a sub, the problem is that whare I live there are no places to test them, and I've seen so many videos thet I'm now overwhelmed, just wanted to share...
Andrew, I’ve been watching your reviews since many years. You’re an honest to goodness guy very trustworthy. I take your opinion very highly but when you brought Christie to the show it elevated the reviews to a sky high-level I love her input her interpretation. You’re a lucky man when it comes to reviews, I think Christie is the bottom lineon what the product is she’s great❤❤❤
@@KristiWright anytime both of youse really deserve high praise for all the information and commitment that you give to us. It’s valuable and it matters. Thank you both of you be well. Stay happy and healthy. Always a big fan Steve Costello.❤️❤️🙏🏻🙏🏻
I am trying to set up a music & video setup at home. I am a new audiophile. I like Cambridge DacMagic 200 . So please suggest if I can connect Cambridge DacMagic 200 DAC to ONKYO TX NR 6100. Please also suggest some desent speakers supporting ONKYO.
Hi A&K just wondering if you 2 would ever do a polk es60 review. I bought a pair a while back and love them. But I can't find any good reviews anywhere, I'd love to get you guys opinion on them
Another beautiful presentation from both of you! My current music system is a Cambridge amplifier CXA81 with CXC CD player and the CXNV2 network player. Speakers are KEF R500. Since we haven't listened to a CD for a while and we stream everything, I'm thinking about replacing everything with KEF's LS60. Would this be an added value?
I have loved my kef LS50w ( 1st gen. ) For 7 years I have had no reason to upgrade. When the price dropped on the LS60 I was seriously looking at them for the living room. But a few months ago the LS50w stopped working. After unplugging and resetting them ( as per Kef's recommendation ) they maybe work for 1/2 an hour and that's it. Now I have pretty paperweights that cost $2,200. Although I love the idea of a bespoke all in one pair of speakers I will never purchase active speakers again.
That’s pretty funny because you’re right. I’m mounting some new ELAC’s on speaker stands while listening to your video. Sometimes I don’t watch and only listen. lol Trying to multitask.
Do the Focals have a house sound jagged response like the ones you put up here ? Don’t want to watch other reviews if Focal has a non- linear response especially for the price point.
What is a linear response really? From 200Hz to about 2kHz, the Focal Aria Evo X (in-room) is pretty linear, measuring +/- 2ish dB off reference (which is 75dB) in this case. That means that it's pretty linear across the midrange, and in some or maybe most rooms, will likely come off as neutral --at least through the midrange. There is a boost in the bass around 100Hz but this is common and as I state in this video, it's very easy to deal with opposed to not having it to begin with.
Love your voice andrew- lullaby...love your mic ...Love the way use of words to describe sound...to understand better about your description - how would you describe audysy -reference sound after calibration(without editing curve)?
I am in a serious problem, right now I am getting a great deal with a focal utopia evo (9000usd) or a kef reference 1 meta (5000usd). i dont know if the focal is worth 40% more than the kef. I am justifying the focal more as a pretty piece of furniture.
This video was a lot of help for me. I'm looking at getting some Focal bookshelfs to listen to some music, very casually. I have the Utopia headphones and adore them but I'm not going into debt to get the Diablos, as much as I want them. Either way, I was confused, the line up is convoluted at best but sounds like I need to focus on the Aria Evo's and wouldn't you know it, they don't cost $20k lol
When I heard the focal No 4's versus the B&W 703 S3 in the same room. (I know all preference) The 703's were just way more everything. I felt like the treble had no magic on the No 4's, the mids were really good, and the base sounded a touch boomy. (I know, preference*) They sure are pretty and you would never get that, why is there some star trek thing on top of your speaker... ;) - love these episodes.
I absolutely love your videos. I even bought my home theater receiver based on your reviews. My issue with high-dollar speakers is in a blind test where you can only listen and not see a lot of people fail comparing $4,000 speakers to $500 speakers. Someone a blind test a lot of times people end up buying the $500 speakers and are perfectly happy. The question is if you do a test with $4,000 speakers and compare it to $600 or $500 speakers or even $200 speakers how many people would guess wrong if all the speakers were calibrated and set up correct. I'm only asking because emotiva makes great speakers and they're just under $1,000. And our damn good for two channel.
Andrew says that all that's important is that you like it. If you found something in your budget that you love, go for it. Some people buy for looks or to match their interior. To each their own. It's a subjective hobby as much as it is an objective one.
36:49 Man this was a fun one. Much love to you guys because his torture is sitting through all those ads but I want to make sure you guys always get top dollar on my end. I hope to one day be able to really get into the high five speaker world but until then I'm happy with my budget system. PS hello Kristi always great to hear your thoughts as well. And I can't wait for the new Denon review. Anthony, you know I love my Denon
@@andrewrobinsonreviews yes they do and the 3 minute ads but I understand it's how you make money. I can only hope some people do it for me.. I'm very close now! ..
@@movie_av_impulse You are a saint. Thank you for doing that. My account is not a premium one, so I get them too. Sometimes YT serves 30 min to 1 hour + ads, which is ridiculous. That shouldn't even be allowed.
I'm super interested in knowing what levels you guys listen to music at. I have no clue what I should be listening at. (75, 80, 85, 90db?) My speakers seem to 'come alive' at around 85-90db, but my ears don't really love it for a long period of time, (My left ear starts losing hearing and starts to get fatigued). The highs on my speakers are not boosted but are very much extended. Am I going to have to chose between volume or high-frequency response in order to listen for longer?
We mostly listen at levels that hover around 55-70dB, and if we really want to enjoy and/or get that full cinematic effect, we'll pump it up to 85-95dB, but we do that very sparingly.
As with everything, take frequent breaks if the ear fatigue gets to you. I do that if it happens to me. Hope it helps. Switching genres can also help, too. Cheers, mate
@@Zimmy_1981 Thank you for your response, you did help. My speakers or amplifier probably need a bit more volume or power to come alive, will try changing some things out. I always take a break when my ears start asking for one.
85db is where hearing damage starts. OSHA permits that for an 8hr workday (which is kind of crazy). Damage progresses exponentially as you go up from there. Keep your time at 85db or higher limited to short periods. You may want to consider speakers that are engaging at a lower volume for the long run. A good clue is a speakers efficiency with 90db/watt and higher being desirable in this regard.
@@txerapng you are very welcome. I am pleased I helped. Glad you take the breaks, will save u a lot in the long run. WRT power for the speakers, get more powerful amplifiers for the speakers (over power them) as you'll get the headroom needed & you won't be driving the amp into clipping which can factor into ear fatigue. Our ear aren't like our hair & fingernails, they won't regenerate if damaged
looking for something full range to replace my old B&W 604s3. I was planning on getting the Dynaudio Evoke 50s but now I'm considering Focal Aria Evo X No 3.. I hear the Evoke 50 is a full range monster, but guess i have to find a place where i can demo them both.
I got this. A fairly neutral speaker with less bass than you'd expect and a bit of a tilted up treble response (the S version is slightly smoother). It has tremendous output capabilities with low distortion and has relatively narrow dispersion. Impeccably built and heavy! Call a friend. 60day free return shipping. But you won't be sending them back because your friend is still in the hospital and refuses your calls. Boom. Done. Next!
@@KristiWright I wonder if you would’ve enjoyed the Vestia towers more than the bookshelf. I’ve heard from some that there is quite a tuning difference in the towers compared to the bookshelf apart from the dramatic increase in bass.
Is the kef ls60 truely the best on the market right now in its category (wireless hifi)? iam looking for a pair the sounds lively and energetic yet provided great detail and vocal to listen to classical, blue, jazz, and pop music.
If you dont mind a neutral sounding and excellent imaging speaker get them, but they will for sure easily show the flaws in bad recordings and wont really have room shaking bass its all taut and sharp Ive auditioned them and the Q750 paried with a denon PMA 1600
@@vivynrekha5680 thanks for the input, but can you tune them in the app to sound more lively? i dont really want neutral sound when listening to movies and pop music.
@ciw8688 yes you can tune them and do room correction which actually make quite a big difference if you know how to do it.. there are online videos for it. You have to remember this is a streamer amp and speaker all in one and electronics don't like to be tight packed which will cause heat, they have engineered it very well but can be prone to issues if you will be using it pretty heavily so make sure you have a local dealer who can support you. If it's mainly for TV and electronic music usage and don't mind have a slightly less analytical sound, getting a Q750 or even a Q950 with a denon streamer or some half decent amp and wiim mini will cost less than 5000 usd for sure and have a much more room filling sound and can take a beating and last 10+ years if you are looking long term
I have had a pair since launch. Out of the box they can sound a little neutral, however you can pretty much tune them to sound however you want in the app. Depending on your room size, unless you are looking to get real low, a sub is really not needed, imo.
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How would you compare the Focals to B&W, 703-S3? I have the 703-S3's paired with a Marantz SR5015 AV receiver , and Anthem MCA 525 Gen2 for power. It's my living room sound for everything...movies and music.you always give such positive reviews....I always feel like after watching a new review on a pair of speakers I could be getting something better for the money....Thanks for driving me crazy...lol. Love the channel, thank you and God bless.
Love this new format. Especially since you took the time to answer my question!
Happy to help! Thank you so much for your generosity!
Thank you for the thoughtful donation.
Hi everyone! Thanks for joining us!
Hope your Friday is going well and with a sun shining on! 💐
@@gavriushka Hello! It's beautiful today! Hope you're well!
Morning Vadym!
Kristi! This new Unplugged series is awesome! However, being a conversation between two people, the show would bennefit from you being on camera!
@@KristiWright I am doing as well as I can, thank you ma’am! 😇
I love Kristi taking lead on the presentation structure and as we say here in DC, the whole, "battle rhythm." It is such a good vibe and tempo! We love you too tho Andrew! lol
Thank you! We appreciate you hanging out with us today!
Gotta say, nice move on this UNGPLUGGED series. Loving the new format of Sunday review with a chilled small-talk over the week, with the superstar Kristi! Really useful and real-life advice! thanks for the good work!
You're very kind. Thanks for watching!
Another great job. Very refreshing to watch an Audio Vlog this week not diving into the Audiophile Tempest Storm of "He who shall not be named." But it begins with a "Tek" and ends with a "Ton."
I've been watching the channel for a while, and just have to say I love these followup/podcast style videos. The longer format conversation between the two of you is so entertaining to watch/listen to. I also really like the Kristi popup with soundwave in the bottom corner. Less distracting than the spilt screen and better flow. You two are the best, keep up the evolution!!
Cheers.
Glad you like them!
Love your channel...been listening for about 4 years. I started listening because my electronics are a denon avr 5600 into a rotel RB-991 200watts x2 amp. I wanted to listen to LOTS of reviews so when something died I'd be ready to replace it. However, features and looks aside, I haven't got the impression that amps and preamps and integrated amps have vastly improved since I purchased mine in the 1990's. While cooler priducts have come along, do they really SOUND better? If you were to review priducts that you did years ago such as Hint 6, MaC7200, michi x3 or 1592 mk 2, AS2200 etc, what progress is the industry making? All i added to my setup is Roon with tidal and a blusound node 2 and it feels current. Anyways... i think it would maybe be an interesting general discussion for a future video. THANKS FOR ALL YOU TWO BOTH DO. I KNOW THAT SOUNDS WEIRD CONSIDERING I HAVEN'T MADE A SINGLE hi-fi purchase during the last 4 years.
Speaking strictly in terms of sound quality and ignoring features, any and all improvements in sound quality at the amplifier level (at least over the past few years) could only be described as incremental at best. Now, features like room correction, or connection options like HDMI can vastly improve a product's performance in terms of usability, but just comparing an amp's sound quality to one that may be a generation or two old from the same brand and of the same class, the differences will be subtle for sure! Thanks so much for your support and for the great question!
Andrew/Kristi what's the best way to send you a couple pics of my dad's vintage gear? My dad's old Pioneer receiver reminded me of the vintage piece you picked up a long time ago. Always appreciate the insight along with the back and forth banter. It keeps everything grounded (see what I did there?) and puts the Audio/Video hobby in perspective. As a former Cedia Certified Installer I watched many customers chase the latest and greatest or tried to keep up with the neighbors instead of enjoying the systems they had.
Keep up the excellent detailed reviews and love the unplugged segment.
I'm starting to realize that you guys could be chatting about anything and it would be interesting. Love the dynamic, passion and honesty between you two.
Wow. Kristis opinion and “take” on different speakers is spot on and very useful!!
Thank you, Matty.
*I have to know! Who here is watching FALLOUT and have you played the game?*
I'll go first. Yes, I played the game, and OMG, the show is so good!
Going to watch tonight and I have played the game. Hearing good things!
Starting it tonight! Was finishing rewatching the Silo with a friend who hasn’t seen it yet. 😅
@@gavriushka I can't wait to hear what you think. Silo is also great. I'm ready for it to come back.
@@chrishamilton5960 Ooooo, you must circle back and tell me your thoughts. I LOVED it. We binged the entire season in about 2 days. I'm also a massive fan of Walton Goggins. He's such a star.
@@KristiWright They dropped all the episodes? Binge mode activated lol!
One comparison I didn't see in this was the Focal vs B&W 703 S3. Both are very much in competition with each other and you've reviewed both and I'd like to get your take.
Phantom center: When I upgraded my surround speaker to the Genelec G Three last year I decided to skip the center speaker because to me I did always hear the voices coming from below the TV instead from the actor on screen which I didn’t like. Since the speaker I chose were expensive to me I thought, I first test their imaging (They received great reviews regarding imaging) before buying a center speaker and it turned out I really like the phantom center the speaker were creating. The voices seem to come from the TV in a more diffuse manner so it was better aligning with the actors on screen instead of coming more focussed from the wrong spot most times.
So I am having now a 4.1 surround system and pretty happy with the decision while saving some money :)
Selfishly, I really appreciate the comparison with the R700's. I still have yet to hear a better speaker in my listening situation regardless of price and there have been a few :). That was only after I added a Purifi amp to them. I feel your comment about having the right equipment pairing to have them shine was right on the money. They need and crave power. Great episode!
Thank you for your great reviews!
Thank you so much for your support!
25:45 what’s your top 5 for set and forget speakers at around 5k? I’m really eager to know since I’m probably upgrading to the ls60.
Also I’m dying to know your opinion on the B&O Beolab 8 in stereo (mucho expensivo).
I’m staying with my Focals Choras and Polk R700s you guys introduced me to FOREVER ! I’m in heaven . Thank you both .
Love knowing that you found something that makes you happy!
Thank you sooo much
I feel like we need an episode desicated to the slats. Why did they go? Was it an amicable parting of ways, a creative disagreement or outright betrayal???
0:17 speaking of slats, where is the construction video, yall changed more than just the slats. I’m curious and want to know the new listening room is looking now.
You're seeing it (new room) in our videos. Andrew will probably do a video showing what he did at some point.
I‘m in!
Andrew, thanks for your response, and the way you framed the difference made sense. I'm a big fan of the point of diminishing return and having chased the audiophile mix-and-match game for years an all-in-one like the KEF for me fits the bill, especially at $5K. BTW, the question about the inverted dome was interesting. I was selling mid to upper-end HiFi in the late '70s and the shop was an Avid dealer. (That was when most of the hot designs came from the I-95 loop around Boston.) The Avids were the only speakers we carried (ADS, Allison, KEF, Celestion, and AVID) that had an inverted tweeter. I remember the rep telling me the inverted tweeter has a wider dispersion than a traditional dome.
About the Martin Logans: I own the XT-F100s. I had met the reps at the show, and sure enough, they said they weren't out to make a neutral speaker. The tipped up bass was deliberate and I eq it down. I currently use a subwoofer, room eq, and an active crossover.
Same, I always listened to music and movies from speakers that were colored in one way or another so while neutrality is the goal of most audiophiles, I just wanted speakers that were fun to listen to. The F100s did that for me and I have no regrets about choosing them over the R7s I was considering.
@@poog6256 I had heard 30 different speakers in twelve hours. KEF was notably absent from AXPONA. Only Klipsch and Zu could beat the Martin Logan's dynamics handily (at least, going by what I was able to hear there). Focals had come closest, but not quite. It can feel like I'm getting shouted at by vocalists when I play lively recordings sometimes with the Logans. Forte IV was livelier still. If anything, I would like to get a second set of speakers, that has different characteristics. MoFi towers had stood out at slightly more than the ML price point, with paper woofers and also good dynamics, but they're also 96 pounds. Logans can't match the soundstage depth of some others. Perlisten and MoFi were the two best in that area. Andrew had seemed pleased!
I know it was a long long time ago, but maybe you can write us your main thoughts if you compare them to the Monitor Audio Silver 500 you tested once… like 2 years ago 😅😊 Thanks!
Loving the unplugged segments. Curious to hear your thoughts on the Mofi 888 soon
Yes I’ve heard these speakers are amazing and would love to see a review.
The explanation at around 20 minute mark is just top shelf. Kudos Andy
I had for 3 years the 802D which is one of Andrew’s favorite speakers of all time If I am correct, sold them in pristine condition, complete with boxes and made enough money to buy the Sopra 2 on sale. Personally I feel this was an upgrade ( for my 40square meter sound room) and I would like to see a review and your point of view of this speaker. Still on the market for 9 consecutive years! Always great content, I follow you for quite long now and I am glad you guys doing great 🙏☺️
I really love your channel and appreciate the balance and respect you both show each other in your episodes.
It makes me sad how careful and apologetic you’ve been conditioned to be by the TH-cam trolls. Speaking for, what is probably the majority but not in totality, we’re here because we appreciate your thoughts, options and banter. Opinions and questions help to continue the conversation. Critics of the format should simply find another channel to hate on. Again, thank you for what you bring to the hobby!
I did my first system with focals a few years ago and I found the highs extremely fatiguing without doing correction / tuning. I agree that it's great they dialed back the "default" sound, you can always add a little more highs if you prefer / need them. The old sound made focal for me be completely excluded from consideration on any system where there wasn't DSP / Processing of some kind. Focals with the proper tuning are a wonderful thing however.
Another fantastic and informative video. I do enjoy the new concept on your conversations with the smaller likeness of Kristi than the split screen version. And speaking of that likeness, whomever the artist is that made the likeness is extremely talented. I went back a few years on your videos and watched the couple where you and Kristi were record shopping. Excellent likeness! Again, keep up the great work and I look forward to the next conversation. Thanks!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Hello, Kristy and Andrew. I love your type of review/opinions there. For a few months now, I have been the new Focals Aria Evo X; they are replacing the old Focals Kanta's, and indeed they are more civilized :-). But to be honest, I kept my Kantas because in my living room (about 50m²), the Arias need a little bit more ompf given by a sub. I still love the brand Focal for its liveniness. I do have also B&W 804 d3 in my dedicated music room and indeed B&W are a little bit warmer but the highs are almost equal to me. What's your view on this, Thanks
John
Is there a build video for the living room wall renovation? I am interested.
It's coming.
Hi Andrew & Kristy…. Awesome video! My question is what is that white console below your TV ? And where can I buy it? Thanks in advance…. Cheers! Keep up the good work.
ohhhh! Don’t leave us hanging. What are the other speakers on your top 5 list set it and forget it? Another fun & informative episode. Thanks!
Thank you for all the effort.
For great reviews, insights and your down-to-earth take on hifi. Always a pleasure to watch or listen!
Keep up the good work 😊
Much appreciated!
Focal, smoke and mirrors they keep changing the drivers, aramid, flax, slate, back to aramid and back to flax.. the only kanta to buy is the 3, so you are right three levels is all that's needed
As a big fan of Klipsch 800F , what other bookshelf or tower brings the B💥💥 m
From what I hear, the Ascend Acoustics Sierra LX (1,498pr) pack quite a punch for a bookshelf. SVS and Emotiva also feature designs that focus on big dynamics (maybe at the expense of subtleties though).
Is the cone damaged in the upper right hand side of the speaker at 2:54 ?
Totally different Focal direction, but their car audio speakers are great too.
Super interesting one for me! I purchased a pair of focal thevas- they’re gorgeous but didn’t sound right to my ears. I heard some KLH model 5’s afterwards and they’re everything I could have wanted. Super happy with them. I’ll be keeping an eye on focal in the future though, love the brand.
Which Thevas did you buy? Curious because the KLH Model 5s are more akin to a tower than a bookshelf.
I have the Choras's and Theva's. They can sound crappy on the wrong amp. They work best IMO with amps that have a lot of body to the sound. Rotel and Marantz in my case. With the Audiolab 6000a something just sounds missing (lean amp paired with a lean speaker). Also the Onkyo RZ-50 made them sound awful. Vocals sounded pinched.
Those KLH model 5's sound smooth. What amp have you paired them with?
Greetings from Brazil.
Still in the Focal area
I have owned the Aria 948 and then pushed the button on a new pair of Sopra 3 due to an apparent good deal with the dealer.
Unfortunately there are very few reviews of the sopra and I would like to know how they perform in the range and other speakers you have reviewed.
Regards!
I watched this on a train between Manchester to Leeds
Love watching/listening to the two of you doing reviews.
I find that you're very close to my own opinions that I trust your opinions on gear that I'm not familiar with.
When I say close, I agree with about 85-90% of your reviews of gear that I have heard before.
Thanks for all that you do and keep up the great work!
Thank you! We have a new Unplugged every Friday. Watch today's episode here! th-cam.com/video/iUXv1ybXRSY/w-d-xo.htmlfeature=shared
I’ve just found out about Ohm Walsh speakers, and was wondering if you have any experience with them and what your opinion about them is?
Just noticed about the slats. I liked them, they gave the room texture. But its your crib so you do you. Glad you're admitting that Kristi is he star of the show. I continue to enjoy the content, it's always nice to hear different perspectives. Keep it up and be blessed.
We liked them too. Just wanted a change, and this was the easiest interim "fix." Thanks for hanging with us!
Thanks so much! Appreciate you tuning in!
This new format reminds me of Home Improvement with Kristi playing Wilson with all the sage advice
Thanks for watching!
Room treatment is key. Absolute key. Its like tasting wine and switch wine as you go.. You can make a modest or "cheap" speaker sound fantastic with "minor" adjustments compared to buying these crazy expensive speakers that (also need this adjustments btw) sounds a little bit better. If you got the money go! Top notch cables, exp speakers and the lot. But if you are like the most of us. Find a speaker that you like/love and make your room better and stop hunting🙂🇸🇪
You guys are absolutely awesome as I have followed for years. Would you ever review Magnepans?
I have reviewed Magnepan in the past and wouldn't turn down the opportunity here on TH-cam if it were to come up.
Hello Andrew when will you do review of Denon AVRX4800 I have been waiting for your review for it so many days.
About 7 years ago I was seriously A/B-ing Focal Electra 1038be's ($10k) with Aria 948's ($5k) and every track I compared, I found the Aria's to be more fun & engaging. The only area the Electra's excelled was in the highs (the Be tweeter). The Electra's sounded overly refined and damped in the mids & lows. I nearly pulled the trigger on the Aria's, but instead found a pair of used Dynaudio Focus 380's. They lasted about a year, and I sold them. I just didn't love them. I likely would have been happier with the Arias.
Great review of the Focals, hope to check them out sometime soon. Looking forward to your B&W 800 signature series review as well. Are you all going to do video about the interior redesign of your listening/production/ home theater area in the near future? Thank you!
We will do a video about the room treatment for sure.
I'm currently in the Sonos ecosystem. Arc + Sub + Ones surrounds for TV viewing and a stereo pair of Fives strictly for music streaming and vinyl listening. I'm very intrigued in the KEF LS60s,. I imagine it will be leaps and bound better than my stereo pair of Sonos Fives, but want to get your take how good they are for movie watching? Would I miss having a full surround home theater setup vs stereo towers or are the KEF LS60s also amazing as a HT? Side note: It would actually be cool to see a surround sound vs stereo setup comparison video for movie watching :)
I use the LS60 for lots of movies and series, not surround ofcourse, but great big sounds, easy to hear voices, and base when needed. Would probably add a sub for home cinema purposes, even if they go deep by themselves
Hi @Robinsonbrand Andrew and Kristi, could you please please!!! compare the new SVS Ultra Evolution Pinnacle Speaker and KEF R11 Meta since that seems to be Kristi's favorite floor standing speakers. Also maybe a compare of the SVS pinnacle titan speakers and the R11 meta since you might not have listened to the SVS
Kristi, you have commented that you really enjoyed the Sonus Faber Lumina II. You also really enjoyed the Mofi Source Point 4. For what reasons did you enjoy each? Without having a side-by-side comparison which would you keep around? And there you have a topic starter for a program of a later date, Kristi’s Favourites.
Thanks for the explanation but waiting for sunday especially about movie watching experience please confirm howmuch close this speaker can place to wall since these are front ported
Focal Tower speakers are good for my home leaving Room music listening ? Wether I should go for Tower OR Book shelf speakers ?
This is refreshing! Watched it all to the end. Keep it up! Loves it❤
Thank you! We have a new Unplugged every Friday. Watch today's episode here! th-cam.com/video/iUXv1ybXRSY/w-d-xo.htmlfeature=shared
Good afternoon Andrew and Kristi. Another great discussion. Found the ending discussion particularly interesting. Surprised to see my comment pop up early on. BTW Kristi you are pronouncing my last name correctly in Italian (Booty). Can't help the C part (Chris) LOL. I actually don't even pronounce my own last name correctly. Long story short, over a hundred years ago when the family got off the boat from Italy, the locals bastardized the pronunciation to Butt-eye and we just went with it ever since.
HA. That's kind of awesome. Thank you for contributing to our discussion, Chris! Please don't be a stranger.
what does the content have to do with the headline?
We compare a lot of speakers, at different price points, to each other and to Focal's new speaker, so, everything?
I been trying to stay away from Speaker reviews as I’m on my 3rd pair in 2 years. The Denton 85th Anniversary look like they will stay for the foreseeable future. Love your videos.
Im on buget polk t series with a yamaha tsr700. Think i want to try upgrading and see if my ears hear the money. Love all the feedback
The other problem with high-end powered speakers is the fact you a very nice speaker that is tied to electronics which will eventually become obsolete and at some point fail. Thats a pretty big problem for any speaker in the four figure range which should normally last for decades which sadly is never going to be the case for a speaker like the LS60 regardless of how good it is.
I've not run into this common critique of powered speakers, but that's just me.
I have heard from a couple of electronics failures with active speakers, but it should be rare. However if going the active route maybe find a brand that has a good reputation for repairs?
@@andrewrobinsonreviews I see the active version of the LS50s with dead electronics on eBay pretty often so I'm sure its not a high failure rate but always something that can happen. Plus app support for whatever devices we'll be using in 10+ years would just make me nervous with a $6k speaker.
@@kadajawi2 Its like any other piece of expensive technology. They'll support it for as long as they can but I'm sure they won't stock stuff for 10 - 20 years out.
@@PhillioDoede The same can likely be said for just about any product 20 years down the line. To be fair, we have had way more issues with non-active and what I consider more traditional hifi products showing up not working and whatnot than anything else.
Thank you for responding to my comment on comparing these to the Polk r700s! I haven't heard the aria k2s, but I have heard the thetas and vestias.. and they are quite sibilant (vestias less so).. the store I went to in Singapore played me a few scenes from top gun maverick.. and they were painful to listen to.. the treble was too pronounced and screechy.. so unless the arias manage to tone down on that sibilance and is able to provide details without screechiness.. I would go with Polk reserves all day...
What was the environment of the listening space? If it was a lot of hard surfaces etc., that will only enhance treble issues.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews it was the focal showroom in Singapore...not sure if the room was acoustically treated..
Interesting. Appreciate you filling me in with some more detail. If a speaker is going to sound good or "best" you'd think it would be on the brand's home turf.
I'm looking for brighter speakers not neutral. My hearing needs eq on most speakers. Any affordable suggestions?
Look into Emotiva speakers. Tower speakers have mid drivers with an AMT tweeter. Bass is on point.
Klipsch speakers are know for their "Brightness". Used RP600M can be found for $250-$300. The RP600M II used for about $450
Im interested in the kef ls60 and the Elysian Wharfedales, saw you gave the Elysian 10/10 and the Polk Audio R700 9/10, where does the ls60 fit on that scale
Hi A@K. I purchased the LS60s in part because of your review,and like you I wish I had purchased them in Lotus green! Here’s an Idea for a future review. Get ahold of KEF ask for the Lotus edition and review which of their subs kc62 kf92 or the new kc92? Is best match for them. Great job! love the reviews!
We've been waiting for R3s for a year. LOL. Love the brand but they operate differently when it comes to this stuff.
I was expecting a comparison of various brands of speakers and this is only about one brand. Am I missing something ?
Thanks again very helpful. I’m looking to get new speakers.
Any time!
9:19 what's up with the shame behind purchasing from Facebook marketplace? I think when buying wether it's new or used, one should be cautious where they're buying from. Many great things sold on Facebook marketplace.
Ok.
It was caution not shame. Just be careful is the message
Many scammers out there. I am sure that is what they mean. Buying from a reputable store / dealer may cost more but, you'll have the peace of mind, assurance, warranties, return options & insurance
It was more a be careful especially when (maybe) purchasing something known for costing tens of thousands of dollars as there are a lot of scammers and whatnot out there. It was NOT a judgement call against FB Marketplace and those who may use or rely on it.
Hi Andrew and Kristi! Interesting and informative video, thanks. I have a question for you both: I'm in a huge living room, 35 x 25, high ceilings, on a budget. (Sounds strange but it's true). I was thinking that no matter what tower I purchase in the $5K range, I'd still need sub(s), so I've been leaning toward either the Focal Aria evo X no 1's, or the Fyne F500SP's, on stands, with a pair of REL T9x's. I listen to mostly small group jazz, chamber, and appreciate a flat response with the best soundstage possible. I also love full orchestras, organ pedal tones.., and I do rock out sometimes. In your opinion, considering room and budget, am I heading in the right direction with stand-mounted speakers and two subs? And have you heard both of the speakers I mentioned? I'm talking 5K for speakers in a monstrous room. My previous speakers were Meadowlark Shearwaters, (time aligned 2-way which I loved but they had to go after a few decades). I currently have one REL in a corner and it really changed everything beautifully for the better, so I'm a fan and realize what they can do. - But don't let that sway your opinions/thoughts of my situation. Thanks very much in advance for any thoughts you may have,
J
So sorry to have missed the actual start time, but happy to be here now!🥰
So thrilled to have you! Enjoy this jam-packed episode.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Still watching! So many great comparisons!! Love it!!
@@LeezahB Thank you for watching!
@@KristiWright Thank you and Andrew for providing an awesome Unplugged episode!
Loving the unplugged! Any chance that you will be reviewing Arendal 1723 towers S and non S version speakers ? Thank you Andrew and Kristy!!😊
Do a BeoLab 5 review vs. modern speakers
I'm just so confused, I'm about to buy my first speakers with the Marantz cinema 70, starting a 2.1 planning to scale over the years to a 7.1 but there are so many options and they are so expensive for my salary, I'm between the focal aria bookshelves vs Klipsch RP 500 II or 600 II vs monitor audio silver for a small room or even focal aria evo x, and save for a year for a sub, the problem is that whare I live there are no places to test them, and I've seen so many videos thet I'm now overwhelmed, just wanted to share...
Andrew, I’ve been watching your reviews since many years. You’re an honest to goodness guy very trustworthy. I take your opinion very highly but when you brought Christie to the show it elevated the reviews to a sky high-level I love her input her interpretation. You’re a lucky man when it comes to reviews, I think Christie is the bottom lineon what the product is she’s great❤❤❤
Thank you, Stephen! Your comment means a lot to me.
@@KristiWright anytime both of youse really deserve high praise for all the information and commitment that you give to us. It’s valuable and it matters. Thank you both of you be well. Stay happy and healthy. Always a big fan Steve Costello.❤️❤️🙏🏻🙏🏻
@@stephencosta6814
I am trying to set up a music & video setup at home. I am a new audiophile. I like Cambridge DacMagic 200 . So please suggest if I can connect Cambridge DacMagic 200 DAC to ONKYO TX NR 6100. Please also suggest some desent speakers supporting ONKYO.
Awesome cant wait to watch!!!
Hope you enjoy this fun, double-length episode!
Greetings from Canada, will you be reviewing Emotiva XT3 ? I can’t find anything on them. Thanks and keep on doing what you do.
Tune in Sunday 😉
Hi A&K just wondering if you 2 would ever do a polk es60 review. I bought a pair a while back and love them. But I can't find any good reviews anywhere, I'd love to get you guys opinion on them
Could you please do a review of the vandersteen Model 2Ce Signature III
Another beautiful presentation from both of you!
My current music system is a Cambridge amplifier CXA81 with CXC CD player and the CXNV2 network player. Speakers are KEF R500. Since we haven't listened to a CD for a while and we stream everything, I'm thinking about replacing everything with KEF's LS60. Would this be an added value?
I believe the LS60s would be a step up and a simpler solution based on the equipment you currently have and have shared with us.
Thanks for watching, Philip!
Please review Magnepan LRS+
I have loved my kef LS50w ( 1st gen. ) For 7 years I have had no reason to upgrade. When the price dropped on the LS60 I was seriously looking at them for the living room. But a few months ago the LS50w stopped working.
After unplugging and resetting them ( as per Kef's recommendation ) they maybe work for 1/2 an hour and that's it.
Now I have pretty paperweights that cost $2,200. Although I love the idea of a bespoke all in one pair of speakers I will never purchase active speakers again.
How do the Beolab 28's stack up against these speakers?
That’s pretty funny because you’re right. I’m mounting some new ELAC’s on speaker stands while listening to your video. Sometimes I don’t watch and only listen. lol Trying to multitask.
Do the Focals have a house sound jagged response like the ones you put up here ?
Don’t want to watch other reviews if Focal has a non- linear response especially for the price point.
What is a linear response really? From 200Hz to about 2kHz, the Focal Aria Evo X (in-room) is pretty linear, measuring +/- 2ish dB off reference (which is 75dB) in this case. That means that it's pretty linear across the midrange, and in some or maybe most rooms, will likely come off as neutral --at least through the midrange. There is a boost in the bass around 100Hz but this is common and as I state in this video, it's very easy to deal with opposed to not having it to begin with.
Love your voice andrew- lullaby...love your mic ...Love the way use of words to describe sound...to understand better about your description - how would you describe audysy -reference sound after calibration(without editing curve)?
I think you'll get your answer in Sunday's video!
@@KristiWright waiting for it. Thanks!
I am in a serious problem, right now I am getting a great deal with a focal utopia evo (9000usd) or a kef reference 1 meta (5000usd). i dont know if the focal is worth 40% more than the kef. I am justifying the focal more as a pretty piece of furniture.
This video was a lot of help for me. I'm looking at getting some Focal bookshelfs to listen to some music, very casually. I have the Utopia headphones and adore them but I'm not going into debt to get the Diablos, as much as I want them. Either way, I was confused, the line up is convoluted at best but sounds like I need to focus on the Aria Evo's and wouldn't you know it, they don't cost $20k lol
When I heard the focal No 4's versus the B&W 703 S3 in the same room. (I know all preference) The 703's were just way more everything. I felt like the treble had no magic on the No 4's, the mids were really good, and the base sounded a touch boomy. (I know, preference*) They sure are pretty and you would never get that, why is there some star trek thing on top of your speaker... ;) - love these episodes.
I wish it was a karaoke microphone that you could rip off and belt out the hits! Thank you so much for watching!
I liked the wood slats, bring em back!
I absolutely love your videos. I even bought my home theater receiver based on your reviews. My issue with high-dollar speakers is in a blind test where you can only listen and not see a lot of people fail comparing $4,000 speakers to $500 speakers. Someone a blind test a lot of times people end up buying the $500 speakers and are perfectly happy. The question is if you do a test with $4,000 speakers and compare it to $600 or $500 speakers or even $200 speakers how many people would guess wrong if all the speakers were calibrated and set up correct. I'm only asking because emotiva makes great speakers and they're just under $1,000. And our damn good for two channel.
Andrew says that all that's important is that you like it.
If you found something in your budget that you love, go for it. Some people buy for looks or to match their interior. To each their own. It's a subjective hobby as much as it is an objective one.
36:49 Man this was a fun one. Much love to you guys because his torture is sitting through all those ads but I want to make sure you guys always get top dollar on my end. I hope to one day be able to really get into the high five speaker world but until then I'm happy with my budget system. PS hello Kristi always great to hear your thoughts as well. And I can't wait for the new Denon review. Anthony, you know I love my Denon
Appreciate you watching as always and much love for sitting through the ads. These longer episodes likely have a few more ad breaks 🤷♂
@@andrewrobinsonreviews yes they do and the 3 minute ads but I understand it's how you make money. I can only hope some people do it for me.. I'm very close now! ..
@@movie_av_impulse You are a saint. Thank you for doing that. My account is not a premium one, so I get them too. Sometimes YT serves 30 min to 1 hour + ads, which is ridiculous. That shouldn't even be allowed.
@@KristiWright I never got an hour ad but that is ridiculous I agree that shouldn't be allowed 🤦🏽♂️
I'm super interested in knowing what levels you guys listen to music at. I have no clue what I should be listening at. (75, 80, 85, 90db?) My speakers seem to 'come alive' at around 85-90db, but my ears don't really love it for a long period of time, (My left ear starts losing hearing and starts to get fatigued). The highs on my speakers are not boosted but are very much extended. Am I going to have to chose between volume or high-frequency response in order to listen for longer?
We mostly listen at levels that hover around 55-70dB, and if we really want to enjoy and/or get that full cinematic effect, we'll pump it up to 85-95dB, but we do that very sparingly.
As with everything, take frequent breaks if the ear fatigue gets to you. I do that if it happens to me. Hope it helps. Switching genres can also help, too. Cheers, mate
@@Zimmy_1981 Thank you for your response, you did help. My speakers or amplifier probably need a bit more volume or power to come alive, will try changing some things out. I always take a break when my ears start asking for one.
85db is where hearing damage starts. OSHA permits that for an 8hr workday (which is kind of crazy). Damage progresses exponentially as you go up from there. Keep your time at 85db or higher limited to short periods. You may want to consider speakers that are engaging at a lower volume for the long run. A good clue is a speakers efficiency with 90db/watt and higher being desirable in this regard.
@@txerapng you are very welcome. I am pleased I helped. Glad you take the breaks, will save u a lot in the long run. WRT power for the speakers, get more powerful amplifiers for the speakers (over power them) as you'll get the headroom needed & you won't be driving the amp into clipping which can factor into ear fatigue. Our ear aren't like our hair & fingernails, they won't regenerate if damaged
looking for something full range to replace my old B&W 604s3. I was planning on getting the Dynaudio Evoke 50s but now I'm considering Focal Aria Evo X No 3.. I hear the Evoke 50 is a full range monster, but guess i have to find a place where i can demo them both.
As long as you have the power, the Evoke 50 can probably get away without a subwoofer. Again, if you have the power because Dynaudios love the power.
Curious if you guys would possibly review the Arendal 1723 THX. Very curious what you guys opinion are of them .
Hi James. That's always a possibility. I don't believe we've heard from them since our last review in 2022. 🤷♀
I got this. A fairly neutral speaker with less bass than you'd expect and a bit of a tilted up treble response (the S version is slightly smoother). It has tremendous output capabilities with low distortion and has relatively narrow dispersion. Impeccably built and heavy! Call a friend. 60day free return shipping. But you won't be sending them back because your friend is still in the hospital and refuses your calls.
Boom. Done. Next!
Saw C Butti and instantly heard Christopher Lloyd yelling "BIG BooTAY! TAY!"
Sorry, not sorry. LOL
Enjoy the show!
So the kef Lf 60s are the best
Can you review Goldenear floorstadings?
Thanks for answering my inquiry! :)
You're welcome!
@@KristiWright I wonder if you would’ve enjoyed the Vestia towers more than the bookshelf. I’ve heard from some that there is quite a tuning difference in the towers compared to the bookshelf apart from the dramatic increase in bass.
Speaking about design in moss green colour, love your shirt Andrew, where did you get it?
Andrew gets most of his clothes from a European company called Spoke.
@@KristiWright Thank you, shouldn't be too hard to find then, we live in The Netherlands and my In-laws live in UK.
@@pwsschelkers They have an online store. I wish they would sponsor us!
Is the kef ls60 truely the best on the market right now in its category (wireless hifi)? iam looking for a pair the sounds lively and energetic yet provided great detail and vocal to listen to classical, blue, jazz, and pop music.
If you dont mind a neutral sounding and excellent imaging speaker get them, but they will for sure easily show the flaws in bad recordings and wont really have room shaking bass its all taut and sharp Ive auditioned them and the Q750 paried with a denon PMA 1600
@@vivynrekha5680 thanks for the input, but can you tune them in the app to sound more lively? i dont really want neutral sound when listening to movies and pop music.
@ciw8688 yes you can tune them and do room correction which actually make quite a big difference if you know how to do it.. there are online videos for it. You have to remember this is a streamer amp and speaker all in one and electronics don't like to be tight packed which will cause heat, they have engineered it very well but can be prone to issues if you will be using it pretty heavily so make sure you have a local dealer who can support you.
If it's mainly for TV and electronic music usage and don't mind have a slightly less analytical sound, getting a Q750 or even a Q950 with a denon streamer or some half decent amp and wiim mini will cost less than 5000 usd for sure and have a much more room filling sound and can take a beating and last 10+ years if you are looking long term
I have had a pair since launch. Out of the box they can sound a little neutral, however you can pretty much tune them to sound however you want in the app.
Depending on your room size, unless you are looking to get real low, a sub is really not needed, imo.