JBL vs. KLIPSCH Which Is Better? JBL L100 Classic VS Klipsch Heresy IV

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

✅ 🛒 *L100: **bit.ly/3bPYrBt**, **bit.ly/3tNNZlQ* ✅ 🛒 *Heresy IV: **bit.ly/3komedS**, **bit.ly/3OF9UEb* ✅ *QOTD: Which speaker is YOUR favorite?* *RULES: Please be respectful. NO OUTSIDE LINKS, URLs, email addresses, etc.*

[@AdrianIII]

Probably. But unfortunately, I live in the boonies and am unable to audition either one, unless I buy it online!

[@JukeboxAlley]

Umm, either one was a winner in my book, but guess they just dont build em like the old l100, 4311 etc, klipsch always had top notch build quality.

[@mjjm6220]

@@JukeboxAlley From what I've read, the JBL speakers are still designed, engineered, tested at the JBL Northridge complex. But now assembled in Indonesia. Most of the JBLs of decades gone by were built at Northridge. If the L100 Classic were being built at Northridge, maybe the build quality would equal JBLs of decades long gone. Edit: Thinking back 15-20 years ago, working for a Cal. construction company, building staircases. We had a huge problem with the watered down contact cement, to be compliant with CA EPA reg. The wood veneers were popping off the HDF Newel Posts up in the high, dry mountains along the state line. The problem only got corrected by having a company located up in B.C. do the veneering. So with that thought, if the L100 were still be manufactured in So.Cal. the use of watered down contact cement, most likely would not be an improvement.

[@scottlowell493]

@@mjjm6220 Still, the crossover and drivers are much better now. I just don't like 4 grand a pair from Indonesia and not US made.

[@NaveenKumar-uh2gk]

Hi Andrew you make me confused between heresy 4 and b&w formation duo.plz help me to choose one.i am only concern about sound quality. Wireless or with wire doesn't bother me.plz tell which one is better between two sound wise.or make a comparison video betwee them.it will be fun to compare wireless speaker with traditional one.this is Naveen from india.i love your videos thnx

[@drstrangelove5360]

I own 2 sets of JBL (original buyer, yes I am a old due) speaker's. JBL L300 Summits, bought in 1980 & JBL L166 Horizons, bought in 1982 (both at Pacific Stereo). They are still fantastic! Other than lemon oil to the cabinets (for 40 & 38 years) there cabinets are perfect, like new. I have seen the new L100's an the veneer is thinner! A friend has a pair original L100 Century's & a pair L100 Classic, they sound very close to each other. Have you every seen/heard a JBL Paragon, they are like a angel is singing to you....

[@waynefairchild2710]

I totally agree with your last statement that " only you have to like it". As an, audio engineer for the past 54 years, started my first company when I was 16 and I am now 70, I have seen many developments in the home and pro audio field. Years ago My Dad asked me for a radio for Father's Day. I gave it to him and he asked me to set it up for him. 1 volume and 1tone knob. He sat in his favorite chair and had me set the volume and tone knobs. He marked them with a pencil and when he passed 15 years later it was still set at the pencil marks. I guess it was just perfect for him. Pro audio is a different world, you are always chasing the idea of perfection. I am not a recovering audio guy. I am heavily addicted to all types of audio gear and so is my crew. Thank you for this channel, I truly enjoy it great

[@kaiserfakinaway5909]

that's such a beautiful story and may he rest in peace.

[@johnbrentford5513]

Actually I would like to have a pair of both.

[@lewiswilliams1584]

John Brentford same

[@xue8888]

Pair of pairs

[@randyshakes]

Never heard either speaker. My loss ,right? But I have always had a soft spot for Klipsch because my grandfather had a pair of Klipschorns. Every time someone says the word Klipsch, I immediately think of my grandfather. Great video! Lot of fun!

[@KristiWright]

Thank you for watching!

[@peterrollins881]

My Dad has some JBL 4311's that I grew up on. I was awakened to what music truly is when he plopped me down in the "sweet spot" and played "comfortably numb" at a questionable volume for a small child. Sub's wernt a thing, really, in the early 90's so FEELING the music from those 12's was life changing. One of my best memories.

[@madisongraham9307]

I am so happy for you !!! I heard a pair of JBL L100s back in mid-70s at a audio shop here in Austin (now out of business). Sales guy played a couple new Led Z tracks...I was floored. Fast-forward to late 70s, my first real system I could afford was Nakamichi System One with Advent New Larger Loudspeakers (one of my sons now has them). Next upgrade were Klipsch Fortes (original version- still my main system loudspeakers today). When my parents passed I brought home their Klipsch Hersey's (1983 model)- they are now playing in my studio office today. When I saw your L100 classics review- I was convinced. But, I now have my sights on Klipsch Cornwall IVs.... Good listening, it never gets old.

[@guyl.madison2615]

absolutely!

[@jimmyb1559]

Andrew I have found that one of the most opinionated subjects on earth is concerning stereo or "HIFI" equipment ,which I'm sure you already know. I know it from personal experience by just expressing an opinion about my preferences concerning vintage equipment on some other websites. There are always those who will let you know your opinions are not worthy to be expressed in the audiophile community, or elsewhere for that matter. I was a teenager in the 70's and spent a lot of my time since then purchasing and selling my vintage equipment and there's always seems to have been a differing opinion as to what I saw was most enjoyable to me. We all like what we like. I love your comment about the fact that I am the one who decides what I like and what sounds best to me. A lot of us forget that and may be trying to enjoy what someone else tells us we should enjoy. Love your channel and your interesting perspective on all the equipment you review. Keep viewers like me in mind and know we respect what you say even if we don't agree 100% - which isn't that often :). Thank you. Keep the reviews coming!

[@Squishmallows24]

The break in period for a speaker is on the day you can no longer return them lol

[@TheDecguy]

The veneer on my JBL 4311’s have nicks, dings and scratches from 25 years of abuse in a Nashville studio, 10 years in my Florida studio and 10 years in my home studio/listening room. Their WAF/GAF is very low however their battle scars and beauty marks are well earned and I wouldn’t part with them until they are ready to wheel me out the door.... Years ago I passed on a pair of La Scala’s and now i wish I had them also. Thanks.

[@pspicerwensley]

I am still using the Klitschko Forte II speakers that I bought second hand in 1990. THIRTY YEARS LATER they are still going strong. They are still beautiful and sound fantastic.

[@TheCriticalEngine]

There’s just no contest, and I was even biased towards the JBL’s to begin with. But in my own trials and testing, the Klipsch just outshine and outperform the JBL’s on every level, all the way from build quality and finish, to pure sound quality. Especially the JBL mids and highs sound muffled compared to the wide open and live feeling you get from the Heresy’s. That’s why the Heresy’s are now in my living room strapped in front of my Hegel H360, and I couldn’t be happier. Goosebumps all the way😍

[@SamuelBarrPhotography]

Those JBLs are way too expensive to start falling apart after a year of use. I still have my Polk Audio SDA-2s that I brought back in 1985. They've survived several moves including overseas and still look and sound great. JBL you have to do better!

[@carlehuston]

Andrew...excellent presentation, I remember when the L100 was released first back in the day...WOW I was blown away...worked in a couple of studios that had the classic 4312's and as a result I've always loved JBL's...again thanks for your video, great work!

[@toddstyles7194]

Klipsch is a good speaker. JBL is better. IMO HEARD THEM BOTH SIDE BY SIDE.

[@greymurdock2]

Paul klipsch: “Klipsch loudspeakers aren’t incredible sounding because of only their horns, but because they are a quality loudspeaker through and through

[@superedge99]

@@hugobloemers4425 are you willing to spend a lot more? Now that Klipsch is owned by audiovox I think they're trying to hit price points that people are willing to accept more than ever.

[@armandorancano6415]

@@hugobloemers4425 Choosing to buy American products is laudable. Supporting job creation at home is highly desirable. It is unfortunate that so many good products are made elsewhere. Yet, as a capitalist I love competition. One example are the Chinese designed and made low powered tube amplifiers. I bought a $1,500 Willsenton R8 to pair with my Klipsch Forte IV and it runs circles around even comparable McIntosh amps at a fraction of the price. We had a world-wide reputation for ingenuity. In many areas it seems to have disappeared. We only have ourselves to blame.

[@booniebrew7913]

My Heresy IV's are finally coming this weekend, very excited. I want to thank you for your content the last few months. I'm not in the market for most of what you cover but I look forward to your videos as they positively take me away from everything happening right now.

[@georgemachovec249]

I own a pair of the original Heresy speakers which I bought in college in the 70s and I still love them. They still look great. Although they fall short of newer versions, especially the IVs, I'm enjoying the retro quality

[@pookiedacat8364]

I bought mine in graduate school, back in 1986. They are now serving as a center channel for my La Scalas , I love them... Yes, of course I wish they were the kpt version, as are my industrial La Scalas

[@MontyWoo64]

I am so pleased I have come across your channel. I too am a recovering audiophile, who has rediscovered music. I bought the Technics SU-G700E and the Klipsch IV after being guided by your reviews. Thanks from the UK.

[@Teachering]

I like the fact that Klipsch are made in the USA whereas JBL - foreign manufacture. JBL are made in Mexico, Hungary, and China. I support American manufacture.

[@MrMilanina]

What does it matter? :)

[@Teachering]

@@MrMilanina Are you serious?

[@martyn_g]

Klipsch Heritage are US made. The rest are built overseas like JBL.

[@jonmason1955]

Nice, good time, review with a nice tag! I walked away with your underlying idea that except for very minor differences, both are equal. Although long-term construction hold up is important, geesh! As long as I get the right sound for my ears, who cares about a Nick or a scratch. Good grief, my floor standing 70s era Advents (raised up on 8inch platforms) have moved with me several times, even cross country twice. They still sound great despite the blemishes! Getting off track, Kristi has brought such more joy into your life since you guys married. It shows in your videos! Good going Kristi!!! Stay safe, and e well.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

She absolutely has. Thank you for noticing and for watching. Be well.

[@jimclarke1108]

I bought a pair of Klipsch heresy H 100 in 1976, still listening to them today, i have my old Sony STR DA 3000 ES, with other Klipsch surround speakers, don't need anything else, iv listened to many brands of speaker over the years ))

[@Mr91495osh]

I had JBL. They were good but now I have Klipsch, they are great.

[@mikejames-drummerreginacan1386]

I bought my first Klipsch speakers about a year ago....used RF 25 2 way towers....I am totally impressed with the lively and dynamic sound. Low volume excellence ....LOVE THEM...Klipsch are exciting, enjoyable and fun.....maybe if you like to hear grass grow Klipsch might not be your speaker BUT if you enjoy music, I can't think of a better brand out there.......GREAT video....Thanks !

[@guyl.madison2615]

love the grass grow comment, lol...Forte 2!!! for me since 1993.

[@thomasluczak2868]

absolute true story......when I bought my klipsh heresy loud speakers in 1980 I had to special order them. I wanted the raw birch cabinet to do the finish myself. the boxes were damaged during shipping and the salesman unboxed them to see if they got damaged but he also hooked them up so we could also give them a listen. a bad ground wire connection on the turntable blew out the woofer on the right speaker. it just so happened a klipsh rep was at the store and immediately apologized for the disaster and opened a new box from another pair and replaced the driver on the spot. I was seriously impressed they stood behind their product like that. as far as the low bass goes I initially used a 60 watt onkyo IA but when I switched to a 100 watt yamaha receiver the low end was much better. still own those speakers and have purchased 2 other pairs of klipsh loudspeaker s and can say they are battleships that last a lifetime and sound great. awesome brand !

[@danherrick5785]

Years ago I changed from the Heresy to the LaScala. Kept the Yamaha. Also remember looking into the specs of the Yamaha - I think it was rated 700 watts. I know that seems crazy, and I remember trying to figure out if this was true, but could not figure anything out. Maybe they were 100 watts for each channel output. Which might be 100 watts in the end? My point is the Yamaha receiver was an important ingredient...

[@stevec.1319]

I bought a Klipsch Heresy pair in 1984, also bought a 100 watt Yamaha Amp. We must share similar taste in sound. Anyway, I was out of touch with my system when PC became my music avenue. Klipsch and Amp in storage. recently ~ the love for Hi Fi returned and the speakers and Amp still sound fantastic. However, today ~ i research and seek to buy an affordable Network/ Streamer to play High Res source music and bridge to my PC. Since we seem to have similar taste... any recommendations?

[@robertpendzick9250]

Klipsch Heresy's, Spent hours in a listening room trying various speakers, with similar audio at varying amplitudes, by the time we ended we could tell most speakers apart just by listening. Klipsch always compared better. Finally bought them never looked back. And yes the salesperson got tired of us, but they are going strong 40 years and 2 continents later.

[@roberte.andrews4621]

Interesting presentation. I put my money on Klipsch many years ago with a pair of Cornwall II speakers. The only thing I've done to them is Bob Crites crossovers and titanium mid-range diaphragms. The point I'm trying to make is Klipsch, as the oldest speaker manufacturer in America, represents a lifetime investment because parts are available through the years and its efficient horn-loaded tweeter and midrange are the most intelligible of all types of speakers at any sound pressure level. Bell Labs discovered this back in the 1920s. I'm driving my Cornwall with a Marantz 2220B receiver, which also has never needed repair and it will produce 100 decibels at one meter from only 1 watt input. Its 20 watts per channel is more than enough for any size room and it is the most beautiful industrial design in electronic gear on the planet. Try to find a used pair of Cornwall IIs. We owners keep 'em! I'd think about a new pair, called the Cornwall IV, but my old ears couldn't hear the difference. The new Heresy is outstanding. It can go to 40 hertz. The 1987 Cornwalls only go down to 43 hertz, but the bigger 15" woofer moves more air. However, not every listener will want the size and weight of my Klipsch CWIIs , which weigh 108 lbs, each and stand 38.5" tall with risers. You have to have an understanding wife!

[@KustomSigns]

I would love to see an updated review on the JBL L100 Classic MkII

[@jorgem.tirebiter7639]

I have owned my L100s since 1971. For the last 49 years, I have rattled the windows and annoyed my neighbors everywhere I've lived. I don't know about the new ones, but mine are still pumping it out just like the day I bought them. My grills disintegrated years ago from sheer age. I am hopeful that the reissue grills will fit or be able to be altered slightly to fit my vintage set. I contacted my JBL authorized dealer in Austin. They're looking into it.

[@jrberg327]

I’m still rocking a pair of vintage JBL L 300 Summits for 40 years now. I owned the L 100’s prior to moving up to the L300’s in the late seventies. I bought a new pair of L100’s in the early eighties and at the time they had a very nice walnut stand for them that I picked up for them and they should have brought those back instead of that metal stand when they re-introduced the L100’s. I have always been a fan of the horn driven speakers, JBL and Klipsch are my two top picks.

[@andycanfixit]

I have the L112's which were a pretty decent upgrade to the original L100's with a much better sub, mid and tweeter and they have a proper crossover. Other than a refoam of the woofers they still sound amazing after almost 40 years, I got them for free about 10 years ago from the original owner and then had the subs refoamed, can't complain about them. He still has one more set that he finally go refoamed and discovered how well they sound again after not using them for probably 20 years.

[@solice8844]

I bought the original JBL L100s in 1974 with the black grilles after comparing them side by side with Klipsch comparables at Pacific Stereo. The Klipsch were dull and muddy as if the music was behind a door, excessively low bass growl while the JBLs were crisp, open airy, clear and packed a huge punch with their bass delivery. The difference was night and day. The salesman was harping to me how wonderful the Klipsch sounded as if he was giving me a revelation into speakers gospel. He couldn’t understand after I chose the JBLs and I felt the same about his preference. To each their own.

[@smokinmoose2]

I bought my JBL 4311s from a well known recoding studio in Chicago (they changed equipment every few years and sold their stuff pretty cheap) in the mid ‘70s and they’ve been my main studio monitors since then. The sound as good today as they did then and have had no work done. In the early ‘80s I bought my JBL 4401s at a garage sale for next to nothing and, as with the 4311s, they sound great today. But maybe I’m old school.

[@anonymousmc7727]

I got some 4311s update the crossover and they sing

[@andrewffay]

I was really looking at the JBL L100's, but had decided that I didn't want to play music that loud, so I ordered a set of the L82's instead. Then I saw your review of the L82 and at the end compared them to others, including the Heresy IV. I quickly called Crutchfield and asked what they would recommend. I have a sub that is Klipsch and also have a center that is also a Klipsch. They said they would definitely recommend the Klipsch over the JBL's based on many of the same points you made here. So I made the switch and am awaiting the delivery of the Klipsch Heresy mk IV's for my 50th b-day on January 1st. It took me this long. I have had a set of Bose 601's since the early 90's that were my daily set for all of that time. I am pretty excited. Just for reference, we have a Yamaha RXA2080 9.2 receiver that is 140 watts per channel. And just got the Klipsch Five's for my office to replace old HK Soundsticks - definitely doing a big upgrade to all things audio - and i Love It! I may be getting hooked. Is there a 12-step program I need to start on now??

[@timmotel5804]

2023: I agree with the Klipsch as my favourite. I love JBL but almost $1,000 of it'e price tag is for their name alone. Their build quality isn't as good as Klipsch, which is sad for their price.

[@davidkosa]

You have delivered, Andrew! What a great comparison this is. This is what high-end audio reviewing should be, but isn't. MORE!!!!!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

You got it. I don't know how many comparison videos I have in me as they are strangely stressful but definitely more fun videos to come! Be well!

[@1mctous]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews You could end up with a Joe-n-Tell style speaker leader board.

[@davep2945]

The Heresy IV really is, as Andrew said, a noticeable step up from the Heresy III. Not in a subtle, gee, I think I might hear a difference, sort of way either. It's really something the average person with no real concern or interest in higher end audio can tell right away. To me they need a good pair of subs because they really are light in the upper reaches of the last octave. I'm not talking that they get get down to a powerful 30 hertz so we'll call it good. I'm talking probably 40-45 hertz with enough authority to maintain pace with the mid and treble horns. But it does sound amazing within it's range. The Forte III with it's larger cabinet and passive radiator as well as the Cornwall IV with it's larger cabinet and fifteen inch bass driver do deliver lower, more powerful bass but the real star is the improved mid-range horn that the Heresy doesn't have room for. But if like the sound of Klipsch and don't have the space or cash for the big boys you will not be disappointed with the new Heresy IV.

[@DannyPops]

Your reviews are so genuine and well researched!

[@Lfunk1983]

Heresy IVs win easily. Quality build and can be bought for $2500 a pair. Oh, and they have the crossover design implemented in the La Scala. Good choice, Andrew 🎉

[@gunnarsandberg8132]

$2500 a pair? xD in USA maybe..

[@garyfain7235]

Hi Andrew, I wanted to update you on my purchase of the Heresy IVs. First, they did need a some break in time and after 100+ hours they sound amazing. Second, I did buy the Denon and worked well but just recently changed to a inexpensive tube amp (Nobsound ~$300) and wow, what a difference in sound and presentation! Love the combination. The Nobsound is only 8.5 watts but drive the Hersey to get out of the room volume. I’m now considering an upgrade to the amp in that the Nobsound only has a single input with no phono preamp. Love what you’re doing on your channel and appreciate your honest straightforward reviews.

[@miketucker5997]

There is something to speaker break in, particularly for woofers. The characteristics for a woofer include Fs, the resonant frequency, driver Q, the shape of the impedance plot around Fs and Vas, basically the springiness of the suspension. Back in the day, one had to measure these parameters with a signal generator and two VTVM’s (really good voltmeters). These days you can do it automated on a PC. New woofers test differently than ones played for a while. Typically, Fs goes down and Vas goes up, with little change in Q. This change has only minor impact on a closed box design but can have a major impact on vented box tuning.

[@jcampbell7643]

Still have my old Heresys that I bought in the 70s, tried replacing them a few times, but missed the cleaness?, clarity? Whatever it was other speakers didn’t have it. I did put newer Klipsch bass drivers in a few year’s ago along with a new Crites crossover. Horns are still good and the walnut veneer would still be perfect except for the water stains left after my ex wife would water her stupid plants.

[@JanPatrickLucas]

Very cool! You surprised me towards the end choosing the Klipsch! I appreciate your candid and honest approach!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I'm so glad you enjoyed the video, we actually were having a tough time with it, so I'm pleased so many people like it. Be well!

[@JanPatrickLucas]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews Even more impressed that you took the time to reply...when you have a gazillion subscribers and comments! Thank you Andrew! All the best to you as well

[@marcopolo242]

You are way too kind on JBL. Peeling veneer and oxidation on the stands in a year at that price point?! Garbage quality. Disgraceful. I had a pair of polk audio M7SEII that i shipped canada to USA to Australia to USA. Used them for 20 years...no issues with the black ash veneer no scratches original stands still mint black.

[@sdemosi]

I was thinking the same. That kind of damage from nornal use would make me want to return them. A rusting stand after a year or less? Super thin veneers that crack? I couldn't care how good they sound it. This deficit in build quality is a disgrace.

[@ralex3697]

Poor quality control, cheap parts and labour. No longer made in the USA 🇺🇸 Avoid

[@DC-xx4kv]

I’m late to the party. Just want to say I have a pair of 30 year old Klipsch Quartets. Absolutely perfect condition and I had to survive a daughters teenage party where a can of strawberry soda was spilled and sat on one of the speakers. It took the clear finish off to blot out the soda. I rehydrated the veneer with linseed oil. You cannot tell anything was there. Until this video I took the build for granted. Not now after 30 years of durability with reasonable care.

[@drdreidel101]

At this point I want to be buried in my vintage KHorns. They may not be the "best" sounding speakers I've ever heard, but damn they put a smile on my face like no other and make me dance around my living room like no one is watching. Dope from Hope!!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Truly the only thing that matters...

[@cuttinchops]

I’ve got some vintage JBL 4301,4408 and Klipsch KG4’s and will not give these pairs up! They kick ass at almost anything I throw at them! Honestly however I have been looking at both sets in this video to add to the mix. Thanks for your hard work!

[@sb9442]

I have two pairs of jbl L100 s …bought new in 70’s STILL….my babies 👶 My son is a klipsch man so we’ve compared back & forth over sound & have to say …comes down to personal preference… we both think 🤔 ours is better so🤷‍♀️🤷‍♀️🤷‍♀️but then …he’s a YOUNGUN…I’m 68 mom so who knows better🤷‍♀️ME!!!😂😂😂&&&& WHO WAS RAISED ON ROCK&ROLL …..ME!!!😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😊

[@SpencersStuffTV]

Been waiting for this. Great video man! I'm a Klipsch guy myself haha

[@pareshpremjee8214]

This build quality that you talk about has everything to do with the mere fact that these are no longer made in USA. The Cabinet is put together in Indonesia, the drivers are made in China and the price is a whopping $4,000.00 for the pair. So My question? Would you pay that much for something made so badly? No is the real answer...JBL has messed up in a BIG way by shutting down all manufacturing in the USA... We are giving away everything to China! That needs to stop!!!!!

[@KristiWright]

Paresh Premjee My question to you: Are you willing to pay the additional cost for these made in the USA versions of the JBL? Are the masses?

[@Dr_Xyzt]

@@kirarittberg5088 YES! KENRICK! Finally, someone else online who knows about them! I'm not a JBL guy, but those particular items are indeed exceptional.

[@RDavis-ps8ns]

Hello Andrew I just saw your review on the Kliscph Heresy's Mach 4. I just actually went through an audio file recovery as well. First and foremost I love your assessments on gear, keep up the good work. I just purchased a pair of Focal 1038 B because they actually dropped in price and I just love them. Their laid back sophistication of sound and their presence are great in my listening space. Although the Focals are much admired I wanted to add something a little more exciting, punchy and fun, yet sophisticated when playing jazz and soft rock at low and high volumes. That's when I decided to audition the Kliscph Heresy's Mach 4. What can say but absolute enjoyment regarding the sound, and their visual presence is stunning. I switch back and forth between the Focals and the Heresy's and to be honest I focus more on the Kliscph. As you have always said it's what sounds good to you. Take care love your honest opinion. Kliscph Heritage Line forever.

[@j.j.h.atemycereal]

I just found your channel and really enjoy it. Subscribed! Side note: for a split second I thought you were comic Billy Eichner. “I like the Heresy Mark IVs... YOU DON’T EVEN KNOW!!!!”

[@78sound]

You want to hear the decay not witness it on your 1 year old speakers

[@robmitchell9627]

You are re-awakening the wannabe audiophile in me that went dormant in my 20s. My wife is going to hate you, but thanks for the review!

[@ktpinnacle]

Those JBL's with the orange grills were iconic when I was a teenager. Very cool to see them again. I just know that I would have died for either one of these back then.

[@dmkays]

I had a pair of Heresy's from 1978 to 91. We had a 30 ft long deck about 4 ft above the ground with almost an acre of mowed back yard. I loved putting the Heresys on the corners of the deck and cranking them up while playing Frisbee. From about 60 ft to about 150 feet away they sounded so crisp and clear. It was common in those days for a lot of the local bands have at least a pare of LA Scalas with a pair of Heresys sitting on top of them. That may be due to Hope, Arkansas being only about a six hour drive and their regional factory rep cutting deals with the companies that rented sound equipment. But when your loudspeaker stacks had at least the La Scalas and Heresy, you were ready to rock and roll.

[@gld3gld3]

Love the honesty and transparency here...

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

thanks!

[@patrickjones8209]

Great comparison of two products that are obvious competition for each other. One of the hallmarks of the Klipsch Heritage line is the furniture grade fit and finish, so I'm not surprised to see a difference between the two. Both speakers have very cool, yet distinctive, aesthetics. The L100 Classic makes me think of a C3 Corvette, while the Klipsch is more series one Jaguar E-Type. And given the fact that the Heresy IV is approximately 2/3 the cost of the L100 Classic, it's hard for me to see how the JBL will compete.

[@KristiWright]

Patrick Jones Fitting analogy. I know I’d take the Jag myself. 😊

[@TheHxpro]

I have a pair of L100's purchased in 1977. (Melbourne Australia) The cabinets are like the day I bought them.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

That's awesome!

[@johndickerson536]

I have 2 friends that have the Klipch heresy. They sound good but I had a party and I own cerwin vega D9 and they only take 1 watt to drive them and I had more sound and deeper bass than the klipch. I have had my cerwin Vegas since 1983 and the only problem I ever had was the foam on the woofer drie rotted. Got the original foam and redid the woofers and they still sound great. That was the best money I have ever spent on any audio equipment.

[@zackdiehl81]

You so much for making this video talking about L100 quality issues. I've been really looking to get a pair of these and did he designated integrated amp. But for nearly $5,000 those quality issues are unacceptable, especially after a year

[@PeloncitoBarragan]

I want the Klipsch right now!!!!! Cheers from Mexico City!!!

[@dougg1075]

Manuel Barragán me too man:)

[@vintagestereo]

of course is Klipsch better...Thank you for this amazing video, more of this please

[@andrewschatz3259]

As a studio pro who has been working since the 70's, I can tell you that the JBL L100's, even though they were a popular small studio speakers during that time period, were know to be highly inaccurate- boomy mid-bass, blaring midrange, and scratchy, beamy high end. I have a pair of L112s and can tell you that they are much better speakers than the L100- smoother highs and mids, and not nearly as boomy low end. IMHO

[@hunkydorian]

Have you ever noticed that whenever someone says "There is/are better..." anything, they can never name any?

[@edc3093]

The Klipsch Heresy IV's are $2998.00 for the pair versus the JBL L100's at $4000 for the pair plus another $300 for the JBL JS120 stands. In the end, however, it is like beauty, being in the eyes of the beholder. To my ears the JBL's are 70's bass monsters whereas the Klipsch are crisp mid-range to mid-high range monsters with tight bass. I like the sound of the Klipsch with vinyl, which mellows out the Klipsch a bit.

[@davidmagen415]

I can’t get enough of my Klipsch La Scalas. The don’t strain and handles what ever I throw at them

[@raduflorin6154]

That's because in it's original design La Scala it's a PA speaker , NOT a hi fi one , and it's still NOT a hi fi one !! did you opened one to see what's inside ?? even these that Andrew Robinson is reviewing ??? you will be amazed to find a 50 USD Celestion CXD1 midrange driver + a 30 USD ( Celestion CXD07) , plus the ultimate design , that consists of an 15 Eminence guitar speaker , with a metal frame cheap steel frame chassis :))) ( probably costs about 80 to 100 dollars !! that brings the total value of you speaker to an astonishing 200 USD in worth of components !! Congratulations in paying 6000 USD extra for a big , nicely veneered wooden box :)) !! oh excuses , there are 2 boxes , on each side , anyway, you get my point !!

[@jimclarke1108]

Amen

[@Dr_Xyzt]

I've been on the Klipsch bandwagon for 10 years now. I started off with RB-61ii's, then RF-82ii's, then RF7-ii's. For the longest time, I was kinda stuck with big-box store stuff. The idea of frat-house 15" Cerwin Vegas being in my living room was a fate worse than death itself. I got out of town and hit up a bunch of audio stores in the PNW. Rega, B&W, Polk, Yamaha. Then, online in 2009, I met a dude named "Trey" who worked for Klipsch. He knew my engineering background. He understood. He said, "If there's no highs, and no lows, it must be Bose. Dude, just get some Klipsch bookshelfs, put your ears within 15 degrees of the horn, tweak them, and return them if you don't like them." Thanks Trey! When someone says "JBL", I think of the PRX835's. I didn't even know JBL made the L-100's. The grilles are kinda neat looking, but at the end of the day, there's a vibrating cone in there. Klipsch is awesome in that they make the woofers and horns look good. Even the exposed fasteners look good. My RF7's reach down to 30hz. You can't beat that.

[@robcanova2739]

Hey Andrew, I have been absolutely enjoying your videos, I'm glad I found you on here! I've always been a music fan growing up, playing brass instruments and such, but the "audio enthusiast" bug hit recently when a co-worker of mine gave me some worn out Bang and Olufsen RL140 loudspeakers. I have since recapped the crossovers, refoamed the woofers and replaced the tweeters. They have such a great sound that isn't beat up by room features and I absolutely love the look of them! I might go red speaker cloth as well to match my U-turn Orbit Plus. With that said, what's your opinion on these and other B&O Speakers/components? It would be nice to hear about your history with this brand in the future. Thanks!

[@ljlegnon2178]

Wow, thank you for this review! I just recently picked up a pair of Klipsch HBRs from my local Goodwill store for under $100. The woofers have what looked like child induced pencil holes in them and the tweeters were blown. I carefully disassembled them and replaced the diaphragms, cleaned out the mid horn, and replaced the woofers after painstaking research to match the crossover. Many complain about the lack of bass with these early models, but not with these and the new woofers. My Yamaha CR-2040 drives them wonderfully for my office system. I'm glad to see you enjoy them also. Just picked up a pair of Polk Audio LSi9s from goodwill ($149.99) for my family room surrounds. They're a bit scratched up though. Contemplating crossover tweaks, but should be fun paired with my Klipsch KSF 10.5s, driven with my NAD T785! Thanks for all your insight

[@danherrick5785]

Thank god for goodwill...

[@francescotenti193]

I agree completely. The JBL's with stands are $4,300.00, made in China, not so great construction, for that price!, and require more juice and higher volume to shine, whereas the Klipsch are sold at less than 3 grand, are very efficient and, as shown, can be driven by the modest output of the SX450, can be played an lower volume, better construction and made in the USA. A clear winner IMO and $1,300.00 left in our pockets to buy......

[@kewincolon6290]

I was thinking that the expensive speakers like the new l100 are made here in USA like in 70s

[@CJ-hr1ni]

You think a pair of $3,000 dollars speakers that have no bass and you have to go out and spend a couple of hundred dollars extra on top of that $3,000 dollars price tag to buy subwoofers to enhance the bass it’s a clear winner. I don’t think so.

[@syr_jeff1753]

The Crossover in any Klipsch speaker is the key to how great they are . i have owned 5 different sets of la scala 's did Dj work for some years . Love them also have had some JBL'S I loved

[@davidmagen415]

Yes the iconic orange grills are sexy. They positively take us back to the 70’s

[@pandabear6914]

the one thing that stood out to me in your explaination was there is no 'break in period'. that is so true, if your spoeakers change how they sound over the years then you bought poorly made speakers. I bought a pair of Klipsch Forte ii back in 1992 and they sound just as awesome now as they did when i took them out of the box....anyway...nice review..love the humor.

[@guyl.madison2615]

Same here John. I have had my Forte 2's since 1993. They look like new and sound even better. Andrew makes the Heresy IV sound really good and tempting, but I can't imagine anything sounding better than my 2's!

[@budgethometheaterandhifi]

@Andrew quick tip: treating the veneers with a wood conditioner (I use Howard Feed-N-Wax) keeps the veneers soft, and in my experience makes them a little more resilient to light scratches and nicks.

[@mattgiunt]

Klipsch are a magical company. Just got the RP 600M and everything you are saying about the Hersey mark 4 could be applied to the 600M.Sale price on these right now was impossible to ignore. I got piano black for same price as any other finish. It is beautiful and the energy off this speaker at any volume level is fantastic.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

We too just got the 600M and OMG are you kidding me. They're great -I mean -stay tuned for my review to find out how I really feel ;). Be well!

[@Ki2ooo]

Hi Andrew, I was wondering if you placed the Heresy's on the JBL speaker stands while you had the chance? I see many people speak of improvements putting them a bit up. Can you confirm that? Thank you and happy new year ! Looking forward for more great content! Thanks!

[@andreazampolli6127]

Hi Andrew, thanks for the prompt review of these two favourites. It was a fun review and you did cover most aspects to consider. then it will be ones personal taste to finalize the choice. Thanks again for your videos.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thank you so much for watching! Be well!

[@HWGAFoundation]

There is no best in audio. Everybody hears different, it's like finger prints, unique. It's what you like / prefere.

[@David-vb8tg]

An element of truth but this also gets used by people who are simply broke and trying to justify their crusty gear.

[@speedviper47]

I've listened to both and found both to be good. However, I bought Klipsch because I like their sound better than anything else in the price range.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Appreciate you sharing!

[@OHMAudioChannel]

Let's not forget the Heresy being $1,000 less expensive than the JBL. I love the April Fools intro though, great hook into the video.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

It was a fun intro to do. Thanks for watching!

[@NathanielDykstra]

Back when I watched your L100 Classic review and then watched the Heresy IV review, I really wanted to know how you would compare the two. Thanks for answering the question! Would you ever consider doing a Heresy IV vs Forte III vs Cornwall IV review? Many thanks for the great fun and positivity that you bring and share. 👍

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

We're actively working on getting the Cornwall speakers in house. Hopefully we can make that happen sooner than later. Thank you for watching, be well!

[@teashea1]

I was quite interested in the L100's but purchased Cornwall IV speakers instead.

[@andrewr2626]

Great job, informative without being dry.

[@jamesepler7156]

La Scala's as the main speakers with Heresy's as rear/side speakers in the main room. Then also a pair of Heresy MK 4's up stairs in the bedroom... Can you say perfection...Klipsch just are magic. Hard to quantify but they will electrify your room, home and your life...

[@danclark8947]

A great in depth review on both of my all time favorites Klipsch and Jbl. Klipsch cabinets are known for their superior workmanship usually solid wood and veneers. Compared with press board with veneer. Now comparing drivers jbl went with very high quality drivers but with low sensitivity to give that speaker a more classic sound. Klipsch went with their high sensitivity horn tweeters,midrange horn and as always there 12 inch pro driver. So Klipsch had a all around advantage from the beginning. I definitely would go with the klipsch myself. But if you want a much better comparison between 2 horn speakers with similar spec's you must get your hands a pair of JBL 4429.

[@audioaficionado9494]

JBL because they used modern tech in their new retro speakers. Klipsch are for people who want to have that live concert venue expirence, not modern state of the art. They want that Klipsch house sound with its fun dynamics..

[@matthewchrist9082]

Great entertainment as always. Knew you'd pick the Heresys but still awesome comparison. Those are my goal speakers to pair with my Billie amp, with that sensitivity the Billie should have no issue making them sing.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Great pairing!

[@matthewchrist9082]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews can't wait! Love you man!

[@jimclarke1108]

I bought a pair of Klipsch Heresy H100 back in 1975, replaced the tweeter years ago ,not sure what what i put in it, still the best sound for my ears

[@MrRsw1138]

I have owned Heresy's since 1985 and still love them

[@glen7589]

I have Buchardt S400’s, ELAC UNI and Zu’s and I would be screaming bloody murder if the veneer was separating from the cabinet !!!

[@FluxCondenser]

I’m starting to review speakers on my channel also, but more with vintage gear. There are so many great vintage speakers and some do amazing things. Still, very few do what my Klipsch Fortes (first issue) do so well: Efficiency, dynamics and well controlled bass. The way you describe how the Klipsch sounds alive even at lower volumes is spot on even for their older designs. I’ve always been impressed by Klipsch and have some of their newer speakers in my main system. Over the years I’ve demonstrated far more expensive speakers with thoughts of upgrading, but left showrooms disappointed and thinking, “Why would I spend two to six times more to get (insert expensive, stereophile-approved speaker brand here) when my Klipsch’s do so many things better? I’m glad the audio community is starting to get over their bias against Klipsch and learning to appreciate their virtues. By the way, my beloved Fortes which I’ve owned since 1986 and have shlepped from apartment to apartment back in college (poorly protected) and house to house as an adult are in perfect cosmetic condition. Klipsch cabinets are built right. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying Klipsch are the absolute best. As you say in the beginning such comparisons can be silly. But for many situations they will indeed be the “perfect” speaker.

[@naturalverities]

@Flux Condenser, I have original Fortes too, recapped and with Crites titanium tweeter diaphragms. They are exceptional speakers but pale in comparison to my project speakers, especially in soundstaging, and I am not talking a subtle improvement but a revolutionary get up and dance improvement! I believe the critical difference is multi-amping with a digital (DSP) crossover that preserves time-fidelity. Someday I will try triamping the Fortes---I bet they will be radically improved in soundstaging (time-fidelity, signal path compensation) and transparency (from parametric equalization). Dayton Audio has a DSP for under $200 that can do this for YOU, but you'll need a bunch of amps. Older 7.1 AVRs with multichannel analog inputs are great for this, and cheap too on the used market where they are considered obsolete due to lack of HDMI.

[@paultomaszewski1964]

Stands starting to rust at one year, that's just cost cutting ( or laziness) at the prep stage for powder coating. JBL needs to tighten up their shot group.

[@rickdavis7141]

ta think ya should have called the manufactor?

[@MrJamescord]

I have the original JBL 100 with the blue foam grills for my bedroom and the La Scalas in my main listening room! Best of both!

[@autocrossstar17]

The JBL is the party speaker....with a cigarette in its mouth.

[@rickvohra]

Greetings from Singapore. Would like to report as an L100 classic owner for 3+ years that I haven't had any issues with the wood veneer peeling off or any sort of physical degradation. I would achnowledge that the finish leaves something to be desired (at the price), but my pair is exactly as the day it came. While amazing speakers, these are a pain to image; so I move them quite a lot to try different placements. I am just very very careful. Haha.

[@johnd5669]

It’s interesting how much beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I think the Heresy’s are gorgeous, while the JBL’s are one of the most hideous things to ever exist on the face of this earth. But hey, that’s just me…

[@CPizzle83]

I did not expect you to come to this decision. Im a big Klipsch fan, but I know you love the jbl. The know heresy must just be THAT good. I have a pair of kg4 from late 80's.

[@charlesludwig9173]

Veneer on my L100t3’s is still perfect after 34 years.

[@ShellstaTube]

It was probably a better build 34 years ago.

[@pookiedacat8364]

I've owned my Heresy IIs for 34 years, sure, they Now work in Tandem as a centre channel to my '86 Industrial La Scalas. The L100, or its reincarnation is beautiful. I balls on agree, but honestly, in Klipsch always go Industrial when you can.

[@IBNR1]

Great video. I inherited a pair of vintage early-80's Heresys from my father-in-law a few years back, beautiful cherry cabinets with the classic cane grills, and I love them very much. I wonder how they'd compare to the latest/greatest Mark IV's?

[@martyjewell5683]

Dig your laid back approach. Pronunciation, important with the Klipsch systems. I read a looong time ago that Paul Klipsch named these speakers Heresy because they weren't his "folded horn" principal and all other speakers were heresy (here say). As to preference?? Probably gonna piss off some JBL fans but, the Century 100's were not all that accurate with more than a bit forward midrange. Great for "west coast" rock fans but not satisfying with classical. JBL did sell a boat load of the 100's so somebody likes em. Now the L100T is another story. Klipsch speakers, people seem to either love em or hate the horn sound. Lotsa followers for them too. Neither my preference. Though I could live with both but I'm prejudiced in favor of Ohm Acoustics and EPI for my vintage choices. Nicely done video, I'm now a subscriber.