Best Loudspeakers 2024

When searching for the best loudspeakers, several brands and models consistently stand out due to their sound quality, design, and versatility. Here are some insights from various discussions on highly regarded loudspeakers:

JBL Speakers

JBL speakers have a strong reputation among audio enthusiasts. The JBL L166 model is praised for its deep bass and clear mids and highs, making it a favorite for many users [1]. However, some find JBLs can be fatiguing over time compared to other brands like ADS [1:2]. JBL's DD67000 model is another standout, noted for its impressive performance [4:5], while the JBL M2 offers similar quality at a lower price point [4:1].

ADS Speakers

ADS speakers, particularly vintage models like the L2030, are held in high regard for their sound quality and aesthetic appeal [2]. Many users consider them lifetime speakers due to their stellar performance across various music genres [2:1]. They are often compared favorably against other high-end brands, offering a balanced and enjoyable listening experience.

MBL and High-End Systems

For those seeking an unparalleled audio experience, MBL speakers, such as the 101D/E omnis, are often mentioned as delivering the most realistic sound [3:1]. These speakers are known for their unique omnidirectional design, providing an immersive listening experience. Other high-end systems that have impressed audiophiles include the Wilson Audio Master Chronosonic and the Sonus faber Aida 2 [3:4].

Klipsch and Other Notable Brands

Klipsch speakers, like the Cornwall IV, are celebrated for their powerful sound and build quality [4:4]. Altec A5x "Voice of the Theatre" speakers are also highlighted for their iconic industrial design and exceptional sound, though they require significant investment and effort to assemble [4:2]. Bowers & Wilkins Nautilus speakers are recognized for their role in introducing many to high-fidelity audio [4:8].

Choosing the Right Speaker

Ultimately, the best speaker depends on personal preferences, including the type of music you enjoy and your listening environment. It's important to consider factors like room size, acoustics, and whether you prefer a specific sound signature or design. Listening to different models and setups, when possible, can help you determine which speakers resonate with you the most.

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Products

JBL Professional JBL CSS-1S/TCompact Two-Way100V/70V/8-OhmLoudspeaker. Sold in Pairs, Black, 5.25" (CSS-1S/T)

JBL Professional

$270.00

4.4(31)

Source Threads

POST SUMMARY • [1]

Summarize

Just picked up the L166 and wow do they sound amazing

Posted by pluff-mudd · in r/vintageaudio · 3 months ago

37 upvotes on reddit

12 replies

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ORIGINAL POST

DCM KX10’s- sound is not great inside (sound surprisingly decent by the pool) but make good party speakers and impress people who have only heard Bluetooth.

JBL L100’s- solid sound and build guilty with better looking cabinets than the 166s but lack bass when compared.

JBL L166’s- my initial impression is awe. Truly amazing speakers with awesome depth of sound. The lows hit hard and sharp and the mids and highs are very clear and come through the bass nicely. Definitely my current favorite out over everything I’ve heard.

i.redd.it

12 replies

PabloX68 · 3 months ago

I had a pair of L166s and sold them when I got a pair of ADS L980s. I found the JBLs fatiguing by comparison.

3 upvotes on reddit

Helpful-Camp-1224 · 3 months ago

Actually many speakers can make you feel that way. JBL are good but they are not above all.

1 upvotes on reddit

pluff-mudd · OP · 3 months ago

Interesting! I actually think I got to hear some ADS’s at an audio shop and liked them the most out of anything else in there, can’t remember the model though. What kind of music do you listen to most?

1 upvotes on reddit

PabloX68 · 3 months ago

I listen to a lot of jazz, but also various rock. The jazz tends to be bebop and modal but I like a lot of the newer English stuff. For rock it's anything from prod (Rush, Saga, Yes) to Zep, Iron Maiden to original grunge, to alternative and then 70s stuff like Doobie Bros, Jackson Brown, Gordon Lightfoot. My kid has me listening to newer alternative stuff like Geese.

ADS seems to work well for everything. Definitely get a pair if you can find them.

2 upvotes on reddit

Hondo8719 · 3 months ago

I dream to try L-166 or L-112. That said, my JBL L-110a will do for now.

Rock on!

3 upvotes on reddit

pluff-mudd · OP · 3 months ago

The L112’s are beautiful! You definitely need to hear the 166’s they’re blowing me away

1 upvotes on reddit

Hondo8719 · 3 months ago

They look to be in amazing condition too!

1 upvotes on reddit

el_tacocat · 3 months ago

They are! Probably should have kept mine :)
Those DCMs just scream 'cheap badly designed crap'.
I'm a little surprised you mention the L100 as the speakers on the right don't seem to be L100. Explain? :D
Edit; Found it, they are the L110. Typo I presume :D

2 upvotes on reddit

pluff-mudd · OP · 3 months ago

Typo lol they’re 110s!

2 upvotes on reddit

Calm_Scholar2417 · 3 months ago

Amazing setup!

3 upvotes on reddit

pluff-mudd · OP · 3 months ago

Thank you 🤙

1 upvotes on reddit

izeek11 · 3 months ago

#jbl4life!

3 upvotes on reddit

See 12 replies

r/vintageaudio • [2]

Summarize

Finally scored my Dream Vintage Speakers

Posted by IndirectPatho25 · in r/vintageaudio · 4 months ago

I have looked for these speakers for many years, and now I am a proud owner of the ADS-L2030. Are these your favorite as well?

i.redd.it

619 upvotes on reddit

12 replies

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12 replies

junkronomicon · 4 months ago

I hate the over use of the word grail, because If everything’s a grail then nothing is a grail. Having said this I 100% agree with you.

14 upvotes on reddit

DubTeeF · 4 months ago

These and sonus faber elipsa. Growing up my dad had l710s I think so ads will always have a special place for me. And technics turntables

3 upvotes on reddit

Acceptable-Ask5338 · 4 months ago

Agreed. Anytime someone says something like, “this is one of my grails”, I cringe. Grail shouldn’t even be plural. It shouldn’t be that UN-special. It’s the one thing you’ve been hunting all your life because of its priceless ness and rarity, and it’s likely to never happen! THAT kind of special

1 upvotes on reddit

truxxor · 4 months ago

I’ve owned many ADS speakers, up to the L1230, but have never heard these. I am jealous - one of the best vintage speaker brands, in my opinion.

12 upvotes on reddit

TubeLogic · 4 months ago

I agree, I have a small collection of A/D/S/ speakers in my basement for backup!

1 upvotes on reddit

oOMapmanOo · 4 months ago

I have the biamp for their biamped car stereo speakers of the 80s

1 upvotes on reddit

DoDoDoTheFunkyGibbon · 4 months ago

Those are gorgeous but there's absolutely no way they're getting through the WifeyFilter™

25 upvotes on reddit

Foozlebop · 3 months ago

Enjoyment of the greatest artform in human history supersedes cosmetic layout of a living room, as perceived by a narrow sense of taste. These are beautiful speakers of class and good taste, they will impress anyone who walks in. They are also shallow and fit in the room neatly.

1 upvotes on reddit

Feeling-Editor7463 · 4 months ago

La Scala AL5 is a grail my friend.

1 upvotes on reddit

DoDoDoTheFunkyGibbon · 4 months ago

Mine is so particular that the only room I'm allowed to unsheath the yellow cones of my B&Ws is my own study. So I have a pair of DM603S3s on a bookshelf in a 3m x 3m room. WAAAAAY too much speaker for the space ;-)

1 upvotes on reddit

oldetimiereligion · 4 months ago

Merry Christmas!

18 upvotes on reddit

mrt_28 · 4 months ago

I’m just in AWW!!! I have the L710’s, L730’s, L810’s and the L1530’s. But the L2030’s are just stellar! They are lifetime speakers for sure. Just wow! Congrats!

17 upvotes on reddit

See 12 replies

r/audiophile • [3]

Summarize

Which sound system has blown your ears away the most?

Posted by yhouty · in r/audiophile · 1 month ago

I'm not sure if this question has been asked before or if this variant of this question has been asked before.

Anyways, for those of you who've listened to and have had multiple speakers, which system just simply blows you away every time? I'm talking pure excitement when you watch movies and listen to music.

I'd like to clarify that I'm not talking about speakers that have the most accurate sound, and I'm not interested in making any purchases. Just simply wondering if there are some speakers that give you pure joy every time you sit down and watch a movie or listen to music.

22 upvotes on reddit

12 replies

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Imaginary-Scale9514 · 1 month ago

My current system does that for me. Magnepan LRS, 4x Rythmic F12 subs, Polk center/surround speakers, MiniDSP for 2ch and Marantz receiver for surround. Mostly due to the crazy detaIled, deep, accurate bass.

8 upvotes on reddit

drummer414 · 1 month ago

Sounds like a great system. Since you like panel speakers, feel free to check out a new series of videos I’m doing about a ‘stat panel that has gotten several best of shows.
part 1 https://youtu.be/MYqJ-pYES4M

1 upvotes on reddit

nroth21 · 1 month ago

You’re using the magnepans and the polks at the same time!?

1 upvotes on reddit

MattHooper1975 · 1 month ago

MBL 101D/E omnis.

Long ago, I listened to them beautifully set up in the home of a reviewer for The Absolute Sound. It was the most realistic sound I’ve ever heard. I became somewhat obsessed with MBL and was able to listen to those speakers in various other set ups in stores, etc. Always mind blowing.

I was also able to listen solo in a dedicated room in a high-end store to the big MBL Xtreme set up. That two was incredible, but I’d say they weren’t quite as perfectly dialled in as I’d heard with some set ups using the smaller speakers.

Later on in life, I managed to own MBL 121 stand mounted Omnis - which use the same Omni midrange and Omni tweeter as their big models, and they were simply astounding.

Aside from that for me, the best sound I’ve ever heard has been in my own system with various speakers over the years. Currently with my Joseph Audio Perspective 2 floor standing speakers, driven by my Conrad Johnson amplifiers, in a dedicated room that was renovated with the help of an architect and acoustician.

I’m not saying that it’s the best sound out there at all. The main difference is that my system is chosen precisely to suit my own tastes, and dialled in precisely to produce exactly the type of presentation I like best. So while I have certainly heard much more expensive and more capable systems in one sense, in the sense that matter matters to me the “best most pleasing and compelling sound I’ve heard in terms of my own tastes” comes from my own system.

17 upvotes on reddit

magicmulder · 1 month ago

Same, that’s why I always say the Bayz Audio Counterpoint 2.0 are the best speakers I’ve heard. Yes, conventionally that honor goes to the Wilson Audio Master Chronosonic and the Sonus faber Aida 2, but omnidirectional is a whole different experience. (X-treme 101 as well.)

1 upvotes on reddit

drummer414 · 1 month ago

Wow interesting you liked the Bayz better than the MBL. I only heard Bayz once but the Alsyvox ribbons in the same demo were so far superior. Anyway if you’re interested in more real world priced dipole panel speakers, check out my series about a new ‘stat.

https://youtu.be/MYqJ-pYES4M

2 upvotes on reddit

DrXaos · 1 month ago

I agree. Heard it at an audio show (where many good systems can sound meh).

it was the OMFG Room.

The other one was ages ago. Apogee Diva at the Smithsonian. It was real.

1 upvotes on reddit

pauleye101 · 1 month ago

I heard numerous great systems at Axpona this year but one centered around Wilson Chronosonic XVX speakers and Dan D’Agostino electronics blew my mind. Of course, it was north of $1M so to some extent, it better have!

15 upvotes on reddit

drummer414 · 1 month ago

I was never a huge Wilson fan except for the original WAMM I heard decades ago demonstrated by Dave Wilson. That being said, I recently heard the Chronosonic and was blown away. They demonstrated the new DCS vs the previous top of the line and was shocked how much Better the new Dac sounded.

But if you’re interested in a new dipole full range (close to it) electrostatic at closer to real world prices, check out my new series of videos about them. This is just part 1 https://youtu.be/MYqJ-pYES4M

1 upvotes on reddit

Oldbean98 · 1 month ago

Classic Audio Loudspeakers used to have one of the large rooms at AXPONA, and had some absolutely incredible setups, but they haven’t been there for a number of years after they lost their big room.

1 upvotes on reddit

drummer414 · 1 month ago

Wow nice write up about the MBL. I was obsessed with 101’s for many years but never had the space for them. When I finally bought a place large enough, I had identified (at least in the demos I heard at shows) that the treble was a bit hard sounding, at least at the volume they demo’d them at.

I ended up going with TAD CR1’s (many years ago when they cost 1/2 of what they do now.

But recently I got a new electrostat (at closer to real world prices) that is extremely impressive. Feel free to check out a series of video I am making about them Part 1 https://youtu.be/MYqJ-pYES4M

2 upvotes on reddit

breaksy · 1 month ago

What Klipsch Heritage speakers do you have. And also, do you run them with a sub as well ?

1 upvotes on reddit

See 12 replies

r/audiophile • [4]

Summarize

What's the best speaker you've ever heard?

Posted by Drink-MoreWater · in r/audiophile · 1 year ago

*Picture for attention. This is not how they're set up*

I started with the Klipsch R-15PM + 10SW, and I thought they were the best thing since sliced bread. Then, years later I found my beloved Yamaha NS-1000 Monitors. These were different, raw, natural, and I finally understood "image" and "soundstage". Yes, it took years, but I discovered it, I think. I know that the NS 1000 Ms are unique in that their purpose was specific for creating music (I've read), but I like them and the raw feel, A LOT. So, at this point, I feel like they're so good I'm not sure how something can be better. I can kinda imagine, but some of it must be in our own head, right?

I know "good" and "better" is subjective, but they're almost 50 years old now, and if other speakers are selling for $80k then, for sure they're that much better? I know there's a difference between ported, sealed, and rear opened speakers too.

I love my speakers and I listen to them almost daily. I just don't know what direction I would take if I had the opportunity.

Thanks for your input!

70 upvotes on reddit

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Mr_Fried · 1 year ago

Altec A5x voice of the theatre.

My dads best friend worked for Altec back in the 80’s and 90’s and had a pair of field coil A5’s. They were insane.

My whole life I aspired to own a pair. They are truly one of the greatest speakers of all time if you can get past the iconic industrial design.

At the age of 38 I had finally collected the parts and cabinets, as well as knowledge and support from the Altec community to build my own pair. It was not cheap.

Hundreds of hours of labour, several thousand in parts but the result is endgame.

They are a replica of the system that M Jean Hiraga of L’Audiophile presented at La Nouvelle Revue Du Son in Paris to wild acclaim. 15” 515b bass drivers, 288-16H large format compression drivers fitted to giant 1505b multicellular 500hz horns with big external crossovers.

https://imgur.com/a/vlstCbY

30 upvotes on reddit

PartyMark · 1 year ago

My Klipsch Cornwall IV's are the best speakers I've ever heard. I think I need to step it up to these one day. Remarkable

2 upvotes on reddit

GoldPsychonaut · 1 year ago

Bowers & Wilkins Nautilus. That is what started my addiction with Hifi. I listened to Norah Jones's Sunrise. Changed my life.

80 upvotes on reddit

shadowwulf-indawoods · 1 year ago

Were you at the same show i was? Lol. They were my second face of that show, they're was this pair of speakers that had like 36 tweeters and 18 four - or six inch drivers. They were life like.

Then the Minitor Audio gold speakers I heard really grabbed me hard for their price!!

I ended up with monitor audio Silver series speakers in my system, I am partial, but I'm thrilled with them.

Im only mid fi, obviously, but since I lost 1 ear to a brain tumor, chasing spatial imaging kinda lost its allure.

I'm more happy with them since I upgraded to an anthem receiver. The clean power it puts out is incredible.

1 upvotes on reddit

unhiddenhand · 1 year ago

My B&W DM205 are the most enjoyable speakers I've ever owned at a mere one thousandth of the cost

2 upvotes on reddit

Actuarial_type · 1 year ago

I can’t pick one. Martin Logan had a setup at RMAF a while back, it was like $1.5M worth of equipment. Wow.

JBL DD67000 blew me away but the M2 are 98% as good for way, way less.

Danley SH60. Yeah, a PA speaker, they are magical.

Honorable mentions: Magnepan 3.6 and the ProAc Tablette Reference 8 Signature. And my Gedlee, I’m biased.

31 upvotes on reddit

Winter-Number6774 · 1 year ago

+1 for DD67000. (I have 2 pairs.)

1 upvotes on reddit

reverber · 1 year ago

I got to hear the ML setup in their factory. All McIntosh electronics, IIRC, and their top of the line speakers. They let me play my Talk Talk Spirit of Eden SACD and Mark Hollis CD on the system.

They sound good on my Vistas and ML sub, but it will never sound that good again.

6 upvotes on reddit

John_van_Ommen · 1 year ago

Danley SH60. Yeah, a PA speaker, they are magical.

Honorable mentions: Magnepan 3.6 and the ProAc Tablette Reference 8 Signature. And my Gedlee, I’m biased.

Gedlee Abbeys were my first choice, but I ended up getting the Summas because the wait was shorter. Used that as my reference for years, but the cabinet is just ridiculously large. If you run the math on the cabinet, it's pretty clear that Geddes originally intended to sell it as a ported box, then pivoted to a sealed design. IE, the cabinet is 400% bigger than it needs to be. I ended up selling it because it dominated my whole living room.

I heard the SH60 and the Summa at the same time for a weekend, and it's challenging to compare the two because they sound completely different. The Summa is less fatiguing but the SH50 images about as good as it gets.

The SH50 does a neat trick that I've never seen any other speaker do. Strap in kids, it's about to get complicated:

In the SH50, the woofers are about a foot closer to you than the mids, and the tweeter is about five inches behind the mids.

BUT -

They're all in phase.

This is accomplished via delays in the crossover.

Because of these delays, it's incredibly difficult to tell where the sound is coming from in the Z axis. So when you listen to a set of SH50s in stereo, the left to right imaging is pinpoint but the forward to back imaging is completely diffuse.

It's the weirdest thing; 90% of the speakers in existence don't have much depth to their stage. Dipoles and bipoles create a lot of reflections off of the back wall, and that's one of the reasons that they have a huge soundstage. The SH50 is unique in the way that it operates.

Something a bit curious about this, is that it's "fractal" in nature. IE, the depth of the soundstage in the SH50 sounds a few feet deep, but if one were to scale up the waveguide, it should be possible to pull this trick off to an even larger extent. One could also go the other direction, and make a pair of desktop monitors that do the same thing. The main issue would be that the depth of the soundstage would be compressed. But it would still do it to an extent, and conventional two ways generally don't.

If you look at some speakers like the Wilson Watt and the KEF R104/2, they do something similar, but I doubt it was intentional and I doubt they were clever enough to add the delays into the passive crossover to pull off this 'neat' trick. The only other person I'm aware of that promoted this concept was Jean Michael LeCleach, now deceased. In fact, I figured out the Danley Xover from reading LeCleach; most students of Danley have generally been fixated on the waveguide, but the xover is the important part. Without the Synergy Xover, you don't get the Synergy magic to anywhere near the same extent.

I dragged the SH50s over to a friend's house who owned one of Tom's earliest designs (Lambda Unity Horn) and it was interesting that the two speakers share so much in common but sound so different. This is due to the xover I think. The Lambdas sound much more similar to a conventional two way, whereas the SH50 basically sounds like a full range single driver speaker... except it can hit 130dB.

2 upvotes on reddit

-RicFlair · 1 year ago

My wife. When she speaks I hear nothing else

27 upvotes on reddit

Mr_Fried · 1 year ago

I am married, with a two and a half year old daughter.

My daughter is fascinated with electronics and working on things, she helped me reassemble last time I took it all apart. Im slightly worried about her friends, but have already seen cases of her telling other people not to touch it, which is every hifi dad’s dream.

Let me break down how I neutralised the WAF factor.

My wife has a baby grand piano which we have now had to move 4 times. Takes up more space than my speakers. She never plays it.
The minute you hear any decent content on that system, you forget about the size or industrial design and are simply in awe. It is glorious. Even my wife admitted it’s the most amazing sound she has ever heard.
In terms of financing it, I just make sure she spends more than me on shoes, handbags, clothes and cars.

No leg to stand on, waf factor = 10/10.

4 upvotes on reddit

Actuarial_type · 1 year ago

Kind of hard to describe. They really don’t sound like a horn, if you put them behind a screen I’d tell you they were direct radiators. The constant and controlled directivity is great for imaging and less room interaction.

2 upvotes on reddit

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r/JBL • [5]

Summarize

JBL

Posted by pricenate71 · in r/JBL · 7 months ago

JBL is undoubtedly the best speaker brand ever made. That’s all bye

reddit.com

2 upvotes on reddit

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Consistentscroller · 7 months ago

I don’t know about “the best” but they’re pretty darn good

1 upvotes on reddit

Traditional-Cap-2756 · 7 months ago

Literally the best BT speakers money can buy. No brands come close. Not even bose.

1 upvotes on reddit

Consistentscroller · 7 months ago

Considering I returned my JBL for a Bose I have to disagree

1 upvotes on reddit

BrandMan277350 · 7 months ago

i have my charge 5 at max volume for a long period of time and it still goes hard

1 upvotes on reddit

shadowyartsdirty2 · 7 months ago

Why is it in the snow?

1 upvotes on reddit

pricenate71 · OP · 7 months ago

Cuz it snowed n I wanted to listen to music, plus for the picture

1 upvotes on reddit

MamelRentner · 7 months ago

Just for the picture

2 upvotes on reddit

e_____eeeeeeeeeeeee_ · 7 months ago

because

2 upvotes on reddit

Delicious-Rabbit2797 · 7 months ago

Wat Happen??

1 upvotes on reddit

pricenate71 · OP · 7 months ago

I put it there for the pic but I was also using it

1 upvotes on reddit

SuperMario1313 · 7 months ago

Krypto. HOME.

1 upvotes on reddit

See 11 replies

r/BudgetAudiophile • [6]

Summarize

Summary of Kali LP-UNF, ADAM D3V, and Kanto ORA Opinions

Posted by mugglesport · in r/BudgetAudiophile · 7 months ago

I’ve spent a few hours the last day or so reading posts on Reddit and ASR, comparing these three/four options. I have arrived at the following contradicting conclusions:

Kali LP-UNF: These are the best of the four. But D3V might be better. They sound amazing but are big and ugly. They are too loud and also sound great at ultra-low levels. They are more neutral than D3V, except D3V is more neutral than LP-UNF. They seem to have the most bass extension but are measured to have less than the D3V.
ADAM D3V: These are the best of the four. These are also the worst of the four. They sound amazing and immersive, but they also have terrible midrange and vocals/guitar are muddy and veiled. They aren’t good at low levels because the tweeter cuts out (and when it doesn’t, it hisses) and sometimes the volume knob is non-linear. A firmware update is supposedly coming. They are ugly but have a built-in stand and the best build quality. Except sometimes the radiators pop out due to pressure issues. They have great bass extension, but it’s overstated because ADAM reports it at F10.
Kanto ORA: These are the best of the four. These are also the worst of the four. Unlike D3V, they just freaking work and they’re not ugly. They have weak bass extension but actually pretty good because it was measured at F3. They are shielded and have built-in bass management. If you’re going to use a sub, they’re a better value than ORA4, except they’re not. They’re muddier and less muddy than the ORA4.
Kanto ORA4: These are the best of the four. These are also the worst of the four. They sound too V-shaped and are worse than ORA for low volume. These are great without a sub, except they probably need a sub.

I think one could say this shows that they’re all decent choices and one should choose based on features, aesthetics, etc.

But overall, it seems that the Kali is technically the best of the four, if you prioritize sound quality, ignore aesthetics, and size isn’t a concern. But feature-wise, the Kanto ORA/ORA4 seem to come out on top…notably, the Kanto options seem to be the only ones that can use the built-in DAC and a sub at the same time, and the built-in crossover seems like a pretty valuable feature. So Kanto may offer the best user experience for a less discerning listener. The D3V seems to be the most polarizing.

What do you think?

1 upvotes on reddit

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stuuke · 7 months ago

Any updated thoughts on this group of speakers now that the Adams firmware is out? I think the ORA4's are just a little bit more than I'd like to spend so probably looking at the D3V and LP-UNF.

1 upvotes on reddit

mugglesport · OP · 7 months ago

My only update is that I bought the Kanto ORA speakers and am very happy with them. I have not gotten a sub (yet) and have just been enjoying the music. A few times I've noticed the bass drop off, or muddyness on more compressed recordings, but for most of the music I've been listening to lately (Radiohead, Daft Punk, FKJ, Beck, Doechii, Penguin Cafe Orchestra, Bill Callahan...to name a few...all streamed from Spotify) they've sounded pretty fantastic to my ears.

1 upvotes on reddit

stuuke · 7 months ago

I went ahead and bought the ORAs in Grey. Amazon has them marked down to $285 and I grabbed the stands. Definitely the best looking and might get a sub in the future.

1 upvotes on reddit

tupisac · 7 months ago

rotfl. Thank you for this :)

If you want more opinions then here is mine. Subjective as hell, so beware. Also, it is more about the actual monitors like Kalis LP-6 or Adams T5V. I don't like my speakers too small. I also don't like built-in features. All the features I currently need live in different boxes where I can bend them to my will and replace as desired.

Imo Kalis are in the sweet spot of sonic expectations. Bang in the middle of all those majority studies conducted by Harman. Nice, smooth and just sound 'right' as soon as you fire them up. But damn they are one ugly motherfuckers. Especially LP-UNFs. Ew.

Adams have always been slightly bright due to AMT tweeters. They are wonderfully detailed and beloved by some serious music producers, but they will hiss more than the rest and might not be perfect for everybody. Personally I prefer the Kali sound.

I don't care about ORAs. I'm a pro-audio snob.

1 upvotes on reddit

mugglesport · OP · 7 months ago

Do you not care about the ORAs simply because Kanto isn't a pro audio brand? It seems to me that Kali is pro audio making a more consumer-oriented product (with a few hiccups like no sub out and a janky interconnect cable between the two monitors), while Kanto is consumer and attempting a more pro audio (e.g., neutral sound) product. For someone like me, who doesn't have spare boxes (DACs, etc.) sitting around, the ORA seems like an easier solution.

Kanto ORA: $300 plus $230 sub. USB-c from computer to monitor and you're done. Just a bit over $500.

Kali: $300 and then at least a sub and a DAC that at least has volume control and a decent output stage. But you need a sub with line outs, or otherwise figure out bass management. And based on what I see, DACs (or miniDSP, etc.) with the necessary features are $200+. So that's $800+ in total. That's not considering the potential costs of cabling, power management, and potential complexity/mistakes that could be made.

So for some people, this isn't a comparison between $300 speakers...it's a comparison between a ~$500 and $800+ system and a consideration of complexity.

1 upvotes on reddit

tupisac · 7 months ago

Yes, 100% agree. All-in-one solutions are much simpler. For me it is all easy as I already have an interface, mics, studio sub and other shit. Lots of shit actually and that's why I need balanced connections to tame everything down - and for this very reason I'm limited to pro-audio. But my upgrade tree is very straightforward now :)

Kali really dropped the ball not including sub output on their LP-UNFs. It would make casual setups much easier.

1 upvotes on reddit

sukh9942 · 3 months ago

Do you really need all that stuff with the kali lp-unf? I assumed it was just plug and play like the ora4's.

1 upvotes on reddit

jmb1318 · 6 months ago

Anyone using the Kanto ORAs with a Macbook pro M4 or any macbook pro? I just got them today and love them but they show up as a headphone device and cant figure out why or how to fix.

1 upvotes on reddit

See 8 replies

r/AskBattlestations • [7]

Summarize

Best computer speakers right now

Posted by Expensive_Drawing458 · in r/AskBattlestations · 6 months ago

Hey, everyone! I'm currently looking to upgrade my setup and am on the hunt for the best computer speakers. I'm looking for something with great sound quality, ideally with deep bass and clear treble, but also something that won’t take up too much space on my desk.

I’d love to hear about your recommendations. Also, if you have any insight on which brands or models are currently considered top-tier, please share!

Thanks in advance for your suggestions!

33 upvotes on reddit

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Aaiza_zoe · 6 months ago

I have two Edifier R1280T and Fluance Ai41. Edifier is nice and warm. Fluance is much more powerful and clear. I don’t use either for critical listening. Fluance is in my kitchen and Edifier is in a rarely used bedroom setup.

2 upvotes on reddit

unwelcome_frown15 · 6 months ago

I picked up this Klipsch 2.1 pc speakers a little while ago for those times when I’m not using headphones. The sound is amazing, and it looks great too!

6 upvotes on reddit

Wolvenmoon · 5 months ago

The klipsch 2.1 speakers have significant issues, /u/Expensive_Drawing458 , specifically they have no power button meaning they cannot be powered off and their lives are significantly shortened.

I go into it in this thread, https://old.reddit.com/r/buildapcsales/comments/14de31g/deleted_by_user/joq9wsn/ (Edit: Better link)

The long and short of it is: splurge a little and get better speakers. It'll cost less in the long run and be more fun.

2 upvotes on reddit

Onetimehelper · 3 months ago

Which speakers do you recommend?

1 upvotes on reddit

Expensive_Drawing458 · OP · 5 months ago

thanks for the heads up about Klipsch!

1 upvotes on reddit

Expensive_Drawing458 · OP · 6 months ago

Sounds like a great pick! I’ve heard Klipsch has amazing sound quality. How’s the bass on them?

1 upvotes on reddit

Ok-Masterpiece9087 · 5 months ago

+1 for the klipsch 2.1

1 upvotes on reddit

Fuckspez4real · 6 months ago

+1 for the klipsch 2.1 been using mine for the past 2 years and they're great, you can hear a slight hum or buzz when there's no audio playing but i've been able to ignore it.

2 upvotes on reddit

pattymcfly · 6 months ago

I bought the klipsch 2.1 PC speaker set when I was in high school and used it for like 10 years. Great value IMO.

1 upvotes on reddit

Ashamed_Bike_7453 · 6 months ago

I decided to grab the AudioEngine A2+ Wireless speakers after hearing great things about them. They’re solidly made and the sound quality is incredible. Plus, they connect via Bluetooth, so I can play audio from my computer, phone, or anything else easily.

I needed something better for conference calls since my laptop speakers were way too quiet. I set everything up through a dock, added a mic, and connected the speakers—it’s been a game changer!

2 upvotes on reddit

Expensive_Drawing458 · OP · 6 months ago

Great point! I hadn’t thought about the potential delay for gaming or video. I’m sure it’s not a big issue for conference calls, but I’ll keep that in mind if I decide to use the speakers for anything more time-sensitive. Thanks for the heads up!

1 upvotes on reddit

cmcelroy09 · 5 months ago

I’ve recently got a pair of Adam Audio D3V’s and they sound great

2 upvotes on reddit

See 12 replies

r/iems • [8]

Summarize

Personal Picks #2:Moondrop Illumination

Posted by elev114514 · in r/iems · 3 months ago

Quick recap: My "Personal Picks" ignore the market completely. It’s just me sharing stuff based purely on my own taste and thinking.

From my perspective, the "Illumination" is the second-best dynamic driver IEM in Moondrop’s history, right after the "Lan".

The Illumination differs from its twin brother, the "Softears Turii", in key ways (though Illumination was designed first, the Turii launched first). Turii’s front shell sticks out more towards your ear. Why? Because its rectangular backplate design couldn’t fit snugly in the concha – it had to rely on the front shell and eartips for support. The Illumination’s back shell, in contrast, is beautifully simple. They used the absolute minimum space needed for the 0.78 2-pin socket unit, with zero extra bulk.

Where the Illumination surpasses even the Lan is in the flagship-level craftsmanship Moondrop gave it. That titanium alloy body with the TiN (Titanium Nitride) ceramic coating? It’s pretty much the ultimate solution for a polished metal earcup right now. No other metal IEM has reached this level of finish. Another crucial point: the nozzle is integrated into the front shell. Let me be blunt: most swappable nozzle designs on the market today are… well, thoughtless. Swappable nozzles aren’t inherently bad, but you have to actually think about it: Does changing the nozzle’s volume, material, or damping actually achieve the specific acoustic coupling or resonance effects you intended? And does it still maintain a structurally harmonious design with the main shell? It’s not like good examples don’t exist – look at the grid01 and the earlier MAKE series. Those designs practically scream their purpose.

The Illumination’s weaknesses are still classic Moondrop problems that persist today: the accessories are basically useless. You get generic eartips and a generic cable – and literally nothing else useful. The most valuable "accessory" is the tuning foam inside. Sonically, the Illumination has large image size, average resolution, average density, and a strong sense of diffusion (sound spreading out). It’s extremely picky about eartips. You need tips that leave some space in the front chamber. The Softears UC tips work best: they tighten up the bass texture while providing good support, and they also help slightly tighten the Illumination’s image solidity. They don’t fix the Illumination’s inherently unnatural timbre for vocals, but they’re still the top choice.

The Illumination is heavily dependent on silver cables. Issues like mushiness and a diffuse sound can be fixed by cables that emphasize silver’s traits. But finding one that also aesthetically matches that gorgeous shell? Right now, there doesn’t seem to be a good option – you have to prioritize sound over looks.

PS: If future designs follow the path of its successor, the "Illustrious" (Guanghui), this entire series will be permanently off my radar.

reddit.com

15 upvotes on reddit

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Correct_Resolve6883 · 2 months ago

What is the difference between illustrious and illumination, and why don't you like it?

1 upvotes on reddit

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1 upvotes on reddit

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r/BudgetAudiophile • [9]

Summarize

Monitor Audio - Hard to beat for open plan spaces

Posted by Global_Translator286 · in r/BudgetAudiophile · 8 months ago

Hey all

Just a general thought for those who are grappling with big open rooms and tortured with speaker placement options

I've been trying and testing out various options over the last year and a half with lots of speakers coming in and out the door.

There has been Wharfedale, Bose , Dali , Sony, Elac and Moukey speakers all hooked in and out of the set up.

I've settled on my Monitor Audio Bronze bookshelfs fed by 1979 Akai Aa1135 Geshelli J2 Wiim streamer Qobuz No sub

The speakers are 10 feet apart on a diagonal axis from each other and while. One speaker on isolation pads on a shelf , the other on a 1.5 metre Thoman speaker stand. The ceiling in the room is 5 metres at its highest point so getting the speakers up a bit is definitely helpful .

The reason I'm praising the Monitor Audio's so highly is the clarity they offer on and off axis. The sound stage and separation are wonderful in the listening position but some of the other speakers mentioned were pretty good in the listening position also but we're muted and dull as soon as you strayed off axis , while , you know , living .

The open and airy way they talk to each other in stereo is a huge plus in a tricky room , these speakers are so much more forgiving than most posters on Reddit :)

Anyway , here is the question , does anyone else have any other speakers that they love for this reason, off axis listening that you can really love and listening position bliss when your sit and immerse yourself ? I'd love to know about any of youre experiences over the years

i.redd.it

3 upvotes on reddit

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greatwesternbeans · 8 months ago

Very helpful actually, I'm looking to soon step up from my set of RP500Ms in a very similar situation, and I'm mostly between the Bronze 100s and Martin Logan B2s

1 upvotes on reddit

theocking · 8 months ago

Any speaker with both a wide radiation pattern and good off axis response will have that same quality, so yes, there are plenty of speakers that do that, a minority certainly but not super rare or necessarily expensive, and some so it better than others.

1 upvotes on reddit

Global_Translator286 · OP · 8 months ago

do any that you've listened to stand out in this regard ? Agree that speakers like this don't have to be expensive, these MA's only cost me e150 second hand

1 upvotes on reddit

Nervous-Canary-517 · 8 months ago

The Heco Aurora and Celan series have this characteristic. Very wide and even dispersion, working well in smaller, medium and big rooms. The Aurora especially are very affordable. I've seen used pairs of the 700 towers for as little as 250€. That's basically pocket change for these speakers.

1 upvotes on reddit

EaggRed · 8 months ago

Speakers need to be spaced as far apart as possible in the room. the sound will improve immensely.
Placing them in the corners of the room does wonder also

Basically, NEVER put the speakers on the same furniture with the receiver, amplifier and turntable.

Buy more speaker wire.

1 upvotes on reddit

Global_Translator286 · OP · 8 months ago

those speakers are ten feet apart , how much further would you recommend ? You know the amp doesn't make any sound right ?

2 upvotes on reddit

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r/audiophile • [10]

Summarize

In Your Opinion What Are the Most Beautiful Looking Speakers?

Posted by SeaSlug88 · in r/audiophile · 7 months ago

What speakers look the best to you, drop some photos let’s see what the audiophile community thinks!

4 upvotes on reddit

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dkernighan · 7 months ago

https://preview.redd.it/qelpimwaa0ie1.jpeg?width=1200&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=cc54784aff94a0e3409d0dedaa994fa529024a71

I do have a sweet spot for the OMA Fleetwood DeVilles.

9 upvotes on reddit

sennerg · 7 months ago

OMA has some crazy looking speakers in their upper tiers

3 upvotes on reddit

Brucey1609 · 7 months ago

I’d love to hear the Devilles . Not possible here In Australia atm.

1 upvotes on reddit

holytiger89 · 7 months ago

They sound very soft and warm. Very musical with decent amount of bass and matches well with tube amps.

2 upvotes on reddit

min0nim · 7 months ago

Oh yes, this is the SuperWax Mini. Flies under the radar here with the American focus. It's made in Tasmania, Australia. And yes, that's a cast bronze waveguide. The thing is a work or art, and I'd love to own one!

2 upvotes on reddit

holytiger89 · 7 months ago

Checkin them now and they only make active speakers.. that's a bummer but they all look beautiful

1 upvotes on reddit

Dry_Message1667 · 7 months ago

Based on B&W DM70. From the late 60s. Electrostatic tweeter.

1 upvotes on reddit

o93mink · 7 months ago

Sonus Faber Maxima Amator

12 upvotes on reddit

StressAccomplished30 · 7 months ago

Pure Audio, they’re on my list!

2 upvotes on reddit

JSanelli · 7 months ago

They look like my Sonus Faber Cremona

1 upvotes on reddit

forkboy_1965 · 7 months ago

Sonus does beautiful speakers. And I love the way they sound. Maybe one day…

2 upvotes on reddit

akopley · 7 months ago

You can get the cheap barely SF veneers like me! They look sick af but I don’t know that they sound as good as comparable priced units.

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best loudspeakers

Key Considerations for Choosing Loudspeakers:

Sound Quality: Look for speakers with a balanced sound profile, good clarity, and a wide frequency range. Consider models that excel in both bass and treble.
Type of Speaker:
- Bookshelf Speakers: Compact and versatile, suitable for smaller spaces.
- Floorstanding Speakers: Larger, with more powerful sound, ideal for home theaters.
- Satellite Speakers: Smaller, often used in surround sound setups.
- Subwoofers: Essential for deep bass, often paired with other speakers.
Power Handling: Check the wattage rating to ensure the speakers can handle the power output of your amplifier or receiver without distortion.
Impedance: Most speakers have an impedance of 4, 6, or 8 ohms. Ensure compatibility with your audio system for optimal performance.
Build Quality: Look for well-constructed cabinets that minimize resonance and vibration, which can affect sound quality.
Connectivity: Consider whether you need wired or wireless options. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities can add convenience.

Recommendations:

Bookshelf Speakers: KEF Q350 – Known for their excellent sound quality and design, they provide clear highs and deep bass.
Floorstanding Speakers: Polk Audio RTI A9 – Offers powerful sound with great bass response, making them ideal for home theater setups.
Subwoofer: SVS SB-1000 – Highly rated for its deep bass and compact size, perfect for enhancing your audio experience.
Wireless Option: Sonos Five – Delivers rich, room-filling sound with smart features for streaming music.

When selecting loudspeakers, consider your specific needs, such as room size and listening preferences, to find the best fit for your audio setup.

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