/r/StereoAdvice

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r/StereoAdvice is a subreddit for those shopping for new 2 channel home HiFi equipment like speakers, amplifiers, and related electronics.

r/StereoAdvice is a subreddit for those shopping for home HiFi equipment like speakers, amplifiers, and related electronics.

Rules

  1. Be most excellent towards your fellow redditors: And by "be most excellent" we mean no personal attacks, threats, bullying, trolling, baiting, flaming, hate speech, racism, sexism, gatekeeping, or other behavior that makes humanity look like scum.
  2. Only Shopping Advice: See the sidebar for other subreddits better suited for general HiFi discussion.
  3. No Reposting Questions: Please wait at least 3 days before submitting a question again.
  4. No Profiting or Promotion: No affiliate links, market research, surveys, sweepstakes, giveaways, spam or self promotion.
  5. No Selling: Please instead use r/AVExchange
  6. Only Stereo: Please use r/hometheater, r/HeadphoneAdvice, r/Soundbars, r/bluetooth_speakers for other purchase advice.

Moderators also reserve the right to remove other content that fits better in other subreddits.

Additionally, sitewide rules and reddiquette applies. We may further remove posts that are deemed off-topic, or better suited to other subreddits.

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/r/StereoAdvice

17,818 Subscribers

1

Stereo power amp only. Options at $1500?

Was looking at the advance Paris a10 classic and was trying to decide between this and a pre/amp combo for the same price. If I got a solid power section I could rotate in all types of pre’s as I see fit. Not really sure what options there are other than emotiva and I don’t like the look of those. Would like to display it so looks are important. Also rotating speakers so really just a solid power source. A/B/ D? Prob not tubes. lol

What options are there for only power in this price range?

5 Comments
2024/11/09
02:05 UTC

1

Need help with a Wiim streaming setup with existing amp

Hi all, hope you can help me. I've had my eye on an audio streamer for a while now but I just wanted to get some advice on if my plans are feasible or worth doing.

I've currently got an older Technics amp (SU-V40) paired with some matching speakers from that era (sorry don't have model number). This is hooked up to my record player (again another Technics, SL-D3). I've had these for a few years now and I like the setup, it works well for me and have not had any issues whatsoever.

I was Initially looking at the Wiim mini paired with a Schitt Modi (roughly £200 all in), however I've seen the Wiim ultra (£350) was released fairly recently. I like the idea of the screen displaying what I'm playing, but is that setup worth buying for for the extra £150 and would I still need to get an external dac?

Cheers

0 Comments
2024/11/09
01:44 UTC

1

I need advice on new seperate streamer/amp or integrated amp to drive my speakers please.

Hi folks,

 I’m looking at getting a 2-channel amp to drive my two speakers in the living room.

The speakers are 4ohms and can handle 40-200w without clipping.

I listen to music most of the time at a normal?? level, sometimes I like to blow my eardrums out! …..what?

 My two options,

 

1 streaming box for all the connectivity and a separate amp just to amplify the signal to the speakers.

Or

Buy an integrated amp with the streamer built in and connect everything to that.

 

Ideally, at the end I would like to be able to;

 Stream music from my phone

Maybe have ethernet connection to the network

Send the tv sound to the speakers on occasion

Maybe have a sub output for future, though this isn’t high on my list as I’m happy with the base out of the two speakers.

 

 My budget would be about $3000 AUD for the lot.

It would be great if anyone could recommend a system that you have experience with.

I live in Sydney Australia.

 Thanks for your time!

1 Comment
2024/11/09
01:42 UTC

1

Advice Needed on Sourcing and Starting a Vintage Stereo Setup

Hey team,

I’m finally diving into building out my vintage stereo setup, and I’d love to tap into the expertise here! Looking for any advice on what to look for (or avoid), plus any tips on finding good vintage gear.

Here’s what I’m aiming for:

  • Budget: Around $800 (could go a bit higher if it’s worth it).
  • Sound: Chasing that classic “warm” analog vibe that vintage setups are known for.
  • Main Components: Starting with a turntable, receiver/amp, and some solid speakers.
  • Condition: I’m open to pieces needing a little TLC, as long as they’re worth restoring.

Some questions I have:

  • Turntables: Any specific models/brands that are a must?
  • Receivers/Amps: Are there vintage models with solid reliability, or would I be better off mixing a new amp with vintage speakers?
  • Speakers: How much does speaker choice impact that classic sound? Any brands/models to check out?
  • Condition Tips: What red flags should I look for when it comes to worn or expensive parts?

Where to Buy: Any recommendations on places to find gear? Bonus points if there are any in the Dallas area.

Thanks a ton for any advice! Excited to get into this hobby and really appreciate the help.

1 Comment
2024/11/09
01:36 UTC

1

Floor Standing Speakers for Marantz Model 40n - under 2K UDS

Hi all, I am looking to upgrade my Paradigm SE6000fs to get the most of my Marantz Model 40n. I do like the 6000fs especially its tweeter and low range capabilities. It’s efficient as well, so it pairs with most of my vintage gear.

I will be listening to vinyl through my Marantz Model 6350Q turntable and Amazon music through HEOS. I currently have a paradigm monitor 10 sub woofer as well.

I listen to indie, hip hop/rap jazz, emo, pop punk, rock, and the occasional soul and r&b.

I have a large space with my main listening area being about 8.5 feet from the speakers. The space does open up to the right of the right (it’s not a traditional closed off room). I am looking for speakers that can have full range at lower volumes, given that I have an 18 month old who goes down at 8 pm. I can’t crank up the volume as I would like to. This is a big priority for me.

My budget is 2K for a pair and I am located in the US (SF Bay Area). But the cheaper the better, always love a good deal or open box. I do prefer to finance as I like to stick to a strict monthly budget. I wouldn’t be opposed to marketplace or CL finds as well. Thank you.

Edit: USD in the title and I am considering the Focal Focal Theva No.2 given its mid range ability and design.

2 Comments
2024/11/08
23:14 UTC

1

Add Bluetooth to old Hifi stereo?!!

As per the title. I have inherited my Gran’s Technics Hifi stereo player. What device do I need to buy to make it wireless , so I can stream music to it?

Links would be great!

Budget £50

I’m in the UK.

Thank in advance.

7 Comments
2024/11/08
22:24 UTC

1

Help with choosing speakers for a starter vinyl setup!

Hello!

I'm looking to purchase speakers for my starter turntable setup. I have a Dual CS 450 and an iFi Zen Air Phone preamp. I've been considering getting powered speakers to achieve a more minimalist setup; I'm mainly looking for something that has clear sound and won't distort e.g. high notes. Loudness is not a quality I personally need. It doesn't have to be anything too fancy; my speaker experience this far has been a portable 20€ JBL Bluetooth speaker, so almost anything will be a significant upgrade. But I'd still like to get something solid that I won't need to replace right off the bat (with a budget of up to couple hundred euros). They'd be in a small-to-medium sized room.

I found a used pair of Klipsch R15-PM for 195€, an Edifier R1280DB pair for 100€ and a Jamo P404 pair for 90€ on a local second hand marketplace site. Would any of them be worth getting for that price? I like that the first two have bluetooth options, so they can also be used with e.g. mobile devices if desired. I have not looked into the Edifiers as much, but what I've heard Klipsch seems to have solid sound too.

Other brand/model recommendations also welcome, though I'm primarily looking to buy second hand/used so what I can get depends on what's available :)

Thanks in advance!

1 Comment
2024/11/08
21:06 UTC

2

Passive Bookshelf Speakers for a Small Bedroom ($1000-1200 USD)

Budget and location: $1000-1200 USD. 12 ft x 10 ft bedroom. I live in the US.

What I listen to: Jazz, Indie Rock, Synthpop. Those are my most common genres, but I do tend to listen to wide scope of music outside of those genres.

How the gear will be used:

  • I will be placing the speakers on a windowsill in my bedroom. The windowsill has a depth of about 12 inches. The speakers will need to be about 12 inches or less than 12 inches in depth.
  • I spend a lot of time working on projects in my room while listening to music, so I might not be sitting directly in front of them the whole time.
  • I'd be about 6 feet away from the speakers generally.
  • I don't intend to listen on loud volumes. I have other people in the house to be considerate of.
  • I'll be using a WiiM Amp Pro due to its compact size. I figure I can upgrade the amp at a later date if I ever have more room for a listening setup.
  • I do not have space for a subwoofer.

New or used: I would prefer new!

Past gear experience: I'm coming from using headphones for my music listening. My favorite combination from that world is my ZMF Auteur Classic + Bottlehead Crack. My preference is for gear that is on the warmer side, a mid-range emphasis, something that makes vocals sound good.

Options that I'm considering:

  • KEF LS50 - I've seen these on sale for about $1000 and I've been considering them based on the number of positive recommendations I see for them. I hear they are on the brighter side which doesn't exactly match my preferences. I also hear that they are best paired with a subwoofer, which I can't fit.
  • Ascend Acoustics Sierra-1 V2 - From what I've read these seem more up my alley sound-signature wise. They're also a good size for my windowsill.
  • Revel M105 - I've heard good things about these speakers. They seem like they might be a bit nicer than the Sierras and they're on sale for a good price at Crutchfield right now.
10 Comments
2024/11/08
20:58 UTC

1

Between a brand new Yamaha a-s501 (522 usd) and 7 year old Yamaha a-s701(542usd)

I need help choosing between a brand new Yamaha a-s501 (522 usd) and 7-8 year old Yamaha a-s701(542usd).

From the pictures, the 701 looks fine but I won’t know until I head over to the persons place to test it out.

Which one should I choose? And If you recommend the 701, what should I look out for when I test it? Also Howmuch would you pay for it?

I am planning to get Denton 85s with a wharfedale subwoofer as well.

12 Comments
2024/11/08
18:45 UTC

0

Design Acoustics PS-10 v. Pioneer SP-FS52

Which is better at $100 used, good condition? I'm looking to pair with a Pioneer SX-950 inherited. These are for sale locally to me.

Or are these just insufficient/subpar and I need to research further? f the If so, what are good resources for learning?

5 Comments
2024/11/08
17:46 UTC

1

Speakers Recommendation for Dad's System

My Dad bought a new stereo system (seperates) in March, but chose to keep the speakers from his previous system (a Denon combined system) for cost reasons (knowing that these speakers would be the limiting factor in his new system, according to the salesperson). I was wondering if anyone could give some advice on what budget I should consider, and if there is any particular speakers you would recommend? I would ask him, but he doesn't really know himself (and I am looking to buy them as a christmas present), he bought the system as one from Richer Sounds. I am based in the UK. See below for the list of things in his system:

  • Marantz PM6007 Amp
  • Marantz CD6007 CD Player
  • Audio Technica Record Deck (I can't see any numbers on the front of it so don't know which one)

His current speakers are Denon SC-M41, which he bought with a combined amp/cd player/tuner many years ago.

I am looking for speakers that sit on a shelf (bookshelf?), and don't really know what budget to look at: I don't want to buy speakers that are significantly worse than the rest of his system, but I also don't want to buy speakers that are completely excessive for his system. In terms of the space that they need to fill, it is not a big room, and he normally sits around 2m from his speakers. I personally don't know much about stereo systems, so I apologise if I've got any words wrong.

11 Comments
2024/11/08
12:49 UTC

2

Time to upgrade turntable speakers: From active to passive?

Hi,

I've had a Rega Planar 1 with a pair of Triangle Elara01A active speakers. It worked well as starting point to get into the hobby, but I start to feel that I want to get more out of my listening.
I did two small upgrades: Adding a Pro-Ject Phone Box E to replace the built in preamp in the Elara's that sounded awful and upgrade to an elliptical needle on the Planar 1.

I feel that th etime has come for a significant upgrade and I am looking at moving into the passive floorstanding speaker territory.
The budget is not unlimited and I am looking at using max 1500$/€. I am located in Norway, so availability tends to be limited and prices are a tad higher.
So far I am planning to get a second hand Rega Brio (410$), which leaves me with max 1100$ for the speakers.
So far, I've looked (not listened yet) at:
-Monitor Audio Bronze 200 (733$)
-Dali Oberon 5 (825$)

Any thoughts? Any other models I should look into?
Or shouldn't I even consider going to floorstanding passives because of the Rega Planar 1 and look into better actives?
These will exclusively be used in a turntable setup in a room that is approx. 25sqm/270sqft

Thanks!

1 Comment
2024/11/08
10:01 UTC

3

Considering JBL L100, Mofi Source Point 10, or a Klipsch Heresy (maybe with sub...)

I'm looking to finally add some proper speakers to my vinyl setup. I have a Pro-Ject X1, but will need an amp to add to the mix (Yamaha A-S801 or maybe the NAD C 3050...).

I'm looking for a classic styled speaker (wood trim, probably walnut) that is fairly neutral, good for a larger living room, and can play nicely across a wide range of music styles. For the speakers I'm hoping to stay under 5k, preferably 4k. While my room is large, the space for speakers is not. I might even consider the L82 or SP 8s.

I'm curious to hear what folks here think about these speakers, and how they might compare to each other. I'm unable to listen to the Mofi speakers, and have not heard the JBL and Klipsch speakers side by side yet. I think the JBL speakers are the ones that sounded best to me so far. I am interested in learning more about the Source Point speakers however. I've heard people say it has no bass, and some say it has good bass. Some seem to love it, others seem more mixed. It sounds like folks say there are similarities between the JBL and the Mofi speakers, is that true?

The Source Point 8 started out at around $3,700 and now is going for $2,000. They are also fairly attractive speakers for our space.

7 Comments
2024/11/08
06:44 UTC

1

RCA+HDMi amps for tapedeck+theatre

Hey! i have a strange request. i currently have a Quadraflex Reference 712D tape deck, which uses RCA.

I want to get an Amp and speakers for it, but i also want to be able to use them for a tv. i don’t have a tv yet as im waiting to see if i should buy anything specifically.

Trying to keep the amp+ speakers under $300 and i need to know what ports i’ll need on the tv. do they even make amps with both hdmi and RCA??

Preferably id also like some expandability to eventually connect my turn table through RCA, but im willing to give that up if it gets more expensive quickly.

to sum up i need help on getting the Amp, speakers, and what connections i need on whatever Tv. my bad if any of this is dumb, i am a total novice and only have messed around with car audio.

3 Comments
2024/11/08
03:04 UTC

2

What would you put in this “room” if you had 2500 $ to spend?

Amp, speakers, turntable ( I have a mofi fidelity studio phono that I don’t use )

Budget 2500$ I live in Denmark I have very little space around 8 sqm. And 1.7 meters from chair to wall Listen to hip-hop, country and jazz mostly

5 Comments
2024/11/07
22:40 UTC

5

Buying Advice, $4k budget, Vynil/streaming/HT

Hey folks! Long time stalker on the r/audiophile and am finally looking to upgrade my living room audio set-up. I have some equipment from college days that I am replacing to better suit how I listen to music these days.

Budget - ~$4,000

Location - Large open-space living room with 12' ceiling. It is open to the dining/kitchen. Total measurements for entire open areas is approximately 52'x23'. We sit around 10'-12' from the speakers currently. US/Midwest.

How the gear will be used - Hybrid use. Vinyl, streaming, and home theater. My primary draw to this is to get some records going to enjoy with my wife. We use streaming services such as Youtube Music and Pandora One, but I am looking to probably change this. Might give Qobuz a swing. I would like to be able to amplify my movie experience a bit as my current set-up misses the mark.

New or used - New, because it just makes me feel more comfortable. The used gear scene in my area is non-existent.

Past gear experience - For my desktop, I have a Schiit Lyr 2 + Modi Multibit 2 driving Sennheiser HD 660 S. I love the tube sound and was blown away when I upgraded tubes (Genalex Gold Lion E88CC/6922). The living room currently has a Sony STR-DN1080 driving two Cerwin Vega LS-12s that I've had since my college party days. I am wanting something more refined for the living room now that I'm in my mid thirties.

Anything else? - I am pretty well set on my speaker selection, but can be swayed. I have already purchased the amplifier. I am concerned as to whether I am missing something or have an incompatibility that I did not foresee. Down the road (several years from now) I can see my end-game amplifier being something like the Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum III as it appears to strike a balance between price and quality while allowing me to mess around with tubes.

Current Plan:

  • Turntable =Project Dubut EVO 2 (~700)
  • Phono = Schiit Mani (~150)
  • DAC/Streamer = Wiim Ultra (330)
  • Amp = BasX A2m Amplifier (~475) (purchased)
  • Speakers = KEF Q11 Meta (~2200)
  • Pre-Amp = maybe later? not sure I even need one... Probably Schiit Kara F. Haven't done a lot of research here.
30 Comments
2024/11/07
21:46 UTC

2

Looking for a counterpoint speaker to the Wharfdale Lintons

Hey all, I have preordered the Wharfdale Super Lintons which I am assuming have the same reported more warm and laid back sound of the Lintons. I am looking to audition another set of speakers that would be a bit opposite or different than the Lintons, something more revealing and analytical so I can figure out which sound I prefer. My thoughts are maybe some Focals or KEF R3 Metas? Any recommendations for sub $3000 speakers that would fit the bill. I am too new to this to really know what is my preference.

16 Comments
2024/11/07
20:41 UTC

2

Rate my setup?

So this is my first time setting up a proper stereo/hifi. My intention is to setup a good starter system with room to grow later. After many hours of research, I arrived at the following:

  1. Denon DRA-900H - $399 at Accessories4Less right now
  • 120w at 6 ohms
  • 2 Subwoofer outs
  • Preamp outs/multi-room options.
  • Phono preamp

This receiver offers all the features I want now and will provide the necessary ports to expand later.

  1. Elac DBR62 - $699.99 now but keeping an eye out for any sales in the coming weeks.
  • Front-facing ports, I need to keep them fairly close to the wall. They also fit in my cheap speaker stands.
  • Everything I have read indicates these are great for the money.
  • 6 ohm, 120w max power.
  1. SVS SB-1000 Pro - $599.99
  • To be delivered tomorrow. I am excited about this since it will be compatible with my existing powered speakers.
  • Small enough to fit in the room without being a tripping hazard.
  • Sealed. I have a ported sub for my TV with a can of olives a small child placed in there that is now a permanent feature.

I will be using my existing AT LP60X TT and WIIM Mini in this system.

Approximate total = $1698.98

Some items on my list for future upgrades, Any recommendations would be appreciated.

  • Power amp? Not sure how critical this is.
  • Turntable, Fluance or Pro-Ject - I listen to records rarely, they are mostly for collecting so this is less of a priority for me at the moment.
  • Second subwoofer - a buddy of mine set this up and it sounds incredible.
  • Better speaker stands - I have small children in the house and I have been unable to find any that make me feel like they would be worth it. My current stands clamp on to my speakers but they are a bit tippy.
9 Comments
2024/11/07
19:09 UTC

1

Speaker recommendation

At the moment I have the Onkyo A-9000 r amp, Canton Chrono 590 DC speakers and the Audio Technica AT120 turntable. I live in Germany and am looking for new speakers to match the system.

Im thinking of buying used KEF R7 or KEF R11

But I dont know if they will be strong enough, cause I have them set up in a large room (5mx6m) and also the speakers are seperated almost 3m due to my furniture.

So the question is are the KEF a possible solution and if not what are your recommendations.

Price range ~2000€ new (maybe a bit more)

I will buy them used because im 19 and dont have enough money

What do you think?

Btw Im looking for new ones because the Canton are a bit lacking in the lower end. (Yes I know room treatments are important as well, I would love some adivce on that too)

Thanks!

6 Comments
2024/11/07
16:26 UTC

1

AMP and speakers replacement for vynil and computer sources

Close friends' old amplifier and speakers broke. I want to gift them a replacement.

  • Budget: 300€, up to 500€ for something outstandingly good for the price. I'm looking to spend all of my given budget on this gift and maximize the quality/cost ratio
  • Location: Iberian Peninsula
  • Conditions: new, or used as long as in good conditions
  • Sources: a vinyl (and cassette?) player (Sharp SG-309H), and computer
  • Experience: personally I am utterly clueless about stereo settings, and this is why I'm here (my music experiences are: the random speakers I connect my laptop to, the speakers of my car.. lol)
  • Extra points:
    • setting: they won't move their setup around so "portability" is not an issue
    • performance preferences: their focus is on the sound quality, although they don't need the power to blast the music through the roof of the house
    • aesthetic preferences: they really dig "vintage aesthetics", if the hardware cases were in real wood or bakelite it would be an absolute win, but even more recent materials are good, as long as the build quality is reasonable
5 Comments
2024/11/07
15:01 UTC

2

Advice on pairing Subwoofer w. SVS Prime Wireless Pro Bookshelvers

Location: USA

I'm seeking advice to weigh in on pairing a sub with a pair of SVS wireless bookshelf speakers. Due to a new little one learning to walk, it's time to move my tower speakers, turntable, and receiver into my office and streamline the audio experience in the living room. I mostly listen to music, maybe 5 episodes of TV a week, and watch movies maybe 2 weekends a month. So 75% or more of the use case for this setup is music but it has to be satisfactory for TV too. Not exemplary, but satisfactory.

The listening space is large. Its a living room that's only 13w×17L×18h but has an open floor plan on two sides more than doubling that volume before another wall boundary closes in the area. I'm going with the wireless pros as L/R since they can be off the ground from prying fingers, and while they won't be providing concert level playback, reviews suggest 80 to 85dbs shouldn't be an issue; though maybe not much more headroom than that before sounding strained. I'll be between 10 and 11ft from them in my listening position, and they will be between 8 and 9ft apart. Real estate for a sub in the room is a maximum of 24×24x24, but that's honestly way bigger than I'd like, I'm closer towards envisioning a 15" cube. I'm only in the market for 1 sub right now, with the intention of adding a second down the road when I feel like taking the lashings from my wife for putting more black boxes on the living room.

My questions to you all are:

  1. Does my assessment of the Bookshelf set sound right? They should suffice right, or do they perform even better than I assume?
  2. What sub would you personally go with, svs or other, to pair with them in a space like mine?
  3. Personally, Im between sb3000 and sb4000. Real estate wise, and for musicality, I feel like leaning towards the sb3000. However the sb4000 is $500 off right now, which would still stretch my budget, but I feel it would be a mistake not to consider it. Would a single sb3000 make due until a second came along with it? I'm sure two would be super solid, but wonder if I just need the 4000 since I'll have just 1 sub for a while. The advantages of the 4000 from what I've read are the additional connections, headroom, and sub 40hz gain. If the only interest in those advantages on my end is the extra headroom, and I plan on getting a second sub later down the line, would those differences even matter?
  4. Bonus question: forget all this crap and just go dual micro3000s instead for small footprint... thoughts?? Does it satisfy tv listening despite the inability to shake a couch?

Thank you for your time and thoughts!

4 Comments
2024/11/07
14:12 UTC

0

Starting a new setup for my living room :) Help me choose a new second hand receiver! Yamaha RX-496 RDS vs RX-397

First post here so go easy on me :)

I recently bought a Technics SL-1900 turntable and I am setting a new audio setup around that. I am now in need for a nice receiver max 150 euros. I found two options in Kleineanzeigen

So the question is

A Yamaha RX-496 RDS or a Yamaha RX-397

They both look in pretty good condition and they are selling for 150e but I think I can bring to 100e.

I am leaning towards the RX 496 just for the turner add on and the slighter wattage which I guess means more power.

Speakers will follow but for this I still have no idea. Probably passive speakers or? The space is a bit limited so something small, powerful and ok price would be nice if you also have any recommendations.

For now I have some Edifier R1700BT which I hope to connect with RCA but I am not sure if this can work.

Let me know your thoughts!

Thank you in advance!

3 Comments
2024/11/07
13:51 UTC

1

I need help buying a sound sytem

Hi! I am a bit overwhelmed and thought i might find some help here.. I have some vinyl records, some cassettes and a few cds and id love to be able to listen to all of them. However i only have very limited space so a full on music system is not an option for me. there are some soundmasters on amazon that are like compact music Systems that include all kinds of record types. but all of them seem extremely cheap and have a few terrible reviews. but then i know how some music listeners have very high expectations for sound systems and i just want to have a decent sound with the limited space i have. do you have any recommendations? id like to spend between 200-500 euros

15 Comments
2024/11/07
08:40 UTC

0

Opinons on Onkyo P-3200 Preamp?

Someone in my town is selling an Onkyo P-3200 Preamp for $80 but I don´t know if its worth it even for that price. I can hardly find any information regarding this preamp except for the fact that its a rare piece. Does anyone know if its good? Should I buy it for my AT-LP120X?

0 Comments
2024/11/07
06:10 UTC

0

Powered Speakers Recommendations for Turntable?

I have an AT-LP60X-GM turntable and am looking to get a set of powered speakers to go with it, likely bookshelf speakers but am open to different types.

I have a budget of $700. I’ll use them to listen to classic rock, alternative, and jazz records, usually at medium volumes. Some speakers I have considered are Klipsch The Fives and R50-PMs, as well as some Triangle speakers, but I am open to all brands.

Any recommendations are appreciated!

6 Comments
2024/11/07
04:43 UTC

2

Speakers for Naim Uniti Atom

I'm currently using a set of Ohm Walsh 2's from the early 80's and they sound great when I have the volume cranked, but they sound lifeless at low volumes. I live in a Condo so I'm looking for a speaker that sounds good at low volumes too. I don't want to spend more than $2,500. Anyone have an Atom with recommendations? Thanks!

I'm in the US if that matters in terms of availability.

EDIT: I don't know how to gauge the room size, but it's a typical condo with living/TV room Dining area combined. My listening position however is on a couch in front of the system and I am 6' away from the speakers and the speakers are about 6 feet apart from each other.

11 Comments
2024/11/07
01:10 UTC

2

Tiny 2-way advice: MA Radius 90 or SB Acoustics Micro-C?

I am looking for some quality small passive speakers for my kitchen/dining room set up. Space is limited so a standard bookshelf speaker is already pushing the size limit. I've narrowed my search down to the MA Radius 90s or the SB Acoustics Micro-C speakers. Both are around the same price ($550-650 range) and size is right (under 11" tall and 7" deep). Any opinions on one or another? Any other speakers I should consider in that price/size range? Open to any DIY kits as well, but would prefer if they come with flat pack/pre-built cabinets than having to build from scratch. They will be powered by a Wiim Amp and will be placed on a counter snug up against a wall.

2 Comments
2024/11/06
23:51 UTC

2

Replacement for S.M.S.L. A2 amp

I bought myself a small 2.1 setup for my desktop years ago and haven't changed much since I originally set it up. There was a power outage at my apartment yesterday and my speaker amp was dead when I came back home. As the title states, I'm looking for an appropriate replacement. The amp has been hooked up to two small Klipsch bookshelf speakers (don't remember the model, I think they cost me $100 a pop after a deal at the local electronics store - R40M if I had to take a guess), a matching Klipsch sub, sourced by a Schiit Modi and Magni. When I originally made all these purchases, I think I was almost exclusively following YouTube guides from Zeos (I think it's Z Reviews on YouTube). I have no idea if this person is still reputable, or if they ever were. This was like 10 years ago and I didn't know Schiit about Schiit and I know even less about the market now.

As far as budget goes, I just want the amplifier to "match" my mostly budget setup, but I would prefer better build quality to the S.M.S.L. (I remember that it would always spark if I plugged the adapter into the wall before the amplifier) and I'm willing to spend a bit more because I have more money than I did back then. I just want something with solid performance that will last me a long time, without being overkill for the setup. I have no preference for new or used, local or online, or aesthetics. I just want some recommendations for something that will perform well at a decent price. If I had to choose a specific number, I'd throw out $200, but I've been out of the market for so long I actually have no idea what a reasonable price is for something like this.

3 Comments
2024/11/06
23:04 UTC

1

Building My First Home Audio System with $1500—Any Recommendations?

I’m building my first audio setup and considering Klipsch. I’ve heard alot of mixed emotions on this brand. I’d like two floor-standing and or just two book shelf speakers, a subwoofer, and an AVR, with a budget of around $1500. New or used is okay.

Is Klipsch the best choice for this setup, or could I get better quality/value with a different brand? Any specific model recommendations would be great—thanks!

4 Comments
2024/11/06
21:34 UTC

3

Looking for my first Speaker Setup

Was recently visiting a friend who had the Kef Q3 Meta and they made me realize that I need to get a good set of speakers. I could hear all the sounds so clearly, it was amazing. That said, I know there are a lot of options out there and can't seem to land on one.

Budget and location - I'm based in the US. Budget is ~$3k all in, but am flexible.

How the gear will be used - Gear will be used for listening to music and live streaming concerts. As for my music setup, I mostly listen via Spotify and am scared to go Vinyl as I'll spend all of my money on records, but maybe one day. I like to stream concerts (mainly Joe Russo's Almost Dead and other Jam Band type stuff). As for genres of music I listen to...Funk, Rock, Acoustic, Folk, Bluegrass, Jam Bands and some other things as well, but those are the primaries.

New or used - I think new, but open to anything.

Past gear experience - I've had a set of Bose Companion 3s on my computer for 15 years and have used a Sonos One in my living room.

Anything else? -

  • Will be used in Living Room
  • From where I plan to put the speakers, seating is ~9ft away
  • I hope to one day move into a bigger space, so having the flexibility to add onto the system would be great OR just get something that's flexible to begin with.
  • I've heard there are a lot of benefits to free-standing speakers vs. bookshelf speakers, but idk if my partner will be happy with the look of the free-standing ones. Unless there's a big reason to go that route, I'm leaning toward bookshelf speakers.
  • Some speakers that have been recommended to me Kef LS150, Focal Vestia N1, Q Acoustics Concept 30 (Don't love the look), Klipsch The Nines/The Sevens.

Any insight or recommendations would be greatly appreciated! I live in Burlington, VT and there aren't many places to try speakers out.

30 Comments
2024/11/06
18:48 UTC

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