Are these REALLY worth the hype? Buchardt S400 Mk II Review

[@NemoPropaganda]

Small time reviewer gonna chime-in here. And it's no secret I love these speakers. For reference I do also own Dynaudio Special 40, Focal Kanta No1, and Aria 906 along with many others. Ya'll donate all your earnings so you view lack of financial motive as honesty then be happy to know my channel operates at a loss to the tune of $10,000 a year or more so rest assured I have absolutely zero profit motive. It seems to me you guys do not have the reference points of this price category, let me explain: The esteemed gentleman on the far left (not being sarcastic, I respect my elders) says they're too dark sounding, it's not uncommon for older gentleman to prefer a sharper sound due to some minor hearing loss that is natural with age. He also states that Lumina III's which are substantially larger and cost literally double are better... A bit of an unfair comparison, I'm not expecting $4000 performance from a $2000 speaker. Older gentleman finishes it off by saying the Dynaudio Special 40 ($1400 more expensive) is better. Are we expecting a Camry to drive like a Lexus? Guy in the middle is being a little more reasonable but again what are we comparing these speakers to? Ya'll all have a ton of complaints but I'm not hearing any comparison at the same price point. It is okay if you simply don't like it, nothing wrong with that but if you're saying it's not worth the money (which you certainly did elude to) then I feel like there should be at least 5 or more $2000 speakers you can easily list off that are better.

[@doifeellucky]

Good points, though I think pot and kettle might apply to the ‘gentleman’ on the left, as his comments about Kathy Bates were completely inappropriate. That and the fact he regards stand mounts and floor standers as the same makes his opinion slightly worthless. At least the other guy picked him up on that. Would you say the 10’ x 12’ x 20’ room might impact on their findings?

[@NemoPropaganda]

@@doifeellucky for bass response absolutely yes, that's a good amount of space (2400 cu ft) to ask a bookshelf speaker to pressurize let alone a fairly affordable one. I think these guys were treating the speaker a bit unfairly. Only comparing it to floor standers costing double or other bookshelves that cost much more money and then saying it's not worth it's price... The whole thing was just irrational.

[@glennjones6574]

actually a new Camry is pretty damn close to a Lexus in every meaningful way..

[@geraldgreene5563]

I’ll make this point about comparing speakers at specific price points that you make comparing 5000 dollar speakers to 2000 dollar speakers, isn’t that what buchart marketing and hype is all about, a speaker that is better than speakers costing a lot more money, that’s partly what Mr.meh talks about in his evaluation. One thing not mention is you can return them after you try them at the shipping cost

[@gokhanersan8561]

If special 40s are better, then I will splurge the additional $1400 and purchase them. I wouldn’t upgrade from Emit10 ($800) to another bookshelf, unless I hear a “very” impressive difference. Maybe a floor-stander is a better upgrade from entry level bookshelf.

[@Jayiyagi]

Great Video guys. Even though my impressions of these speakers were highly different than yours, I don't doubt that this is what you heard. I respect your opinions as experts and perhaps that is why I find the things said here even more confusing and puzzling. Can't come to any other conclusion than something being terribly wrong with the pair you have in-store. Perhaps sending back to the the manufacturer may solve some mystery here. as Adrian continuously mentioned; many reviewers including myself have given these speakers high marks and the highest mark in my case. Given that at one time; I listened and loved the same gear as you guys did in-store, this is highly odd is it not? Not only that, measurements and the nature of these speaker's technical design suggest almost impossible of what you are hearing. Also many owners are very happy with these speakers and Buchardt is confident enough to allow in-home demos. But not one but ALL of you hate it? jheez... they'd be out of business ! I don't believe KZbin reviews alone can convince people of a mediocre speaker and write positive reviews of their own, causing a ripple effect as many great products do. I'm just as confused as you guys are ! anyways, I'm sorry that you guys didn't like these speakers and seeing Adrian's face in disbelief made me giggle a little as I know that expression all too well. I bet he wanted to say "what the hell are these guys hearing? Are they deaf? Jay????" haha

[@buckethead84]

The only thing I can think of is that they weren't set up right for the room that they're in, and this could potentially be a failure of the manufacturer to explain positioning well enough given the speakers' unique design. I struggled with this when I got them and I didn't feel like there was enough direction to go on and had to do a deep forum search. Most notably is the height of the speaker, if you're relatively close to the speaker you should be looking at 28-30 inch stands. The separation between he speakers is also something to note, I'd say 2 meters between and 1.5ft off the wall (but every room is different ofc). That said, I still don't get the comments about how they sound bad at lower volumes since I run them on a 35w amp and do most of my listening at lower levels (even at higher levels apparently), or that the bass was flabby/uncontrolled. Further, maybe it was a case of collective bias, but I struggle with imagining them admit that the speaker is comparable to if not better than he two other bookshelf speakers that sit in a similar price that they sell. Cheaper than the Sonetto II and bigger specs than the Sonetto I. Would they really allow themselves to admit that an internet speaker is on par if not better than the two SFs?

[@delvalle9256]

@jay the review unit, I believe, did not come from the manufacturer. This channel finally gave a negative review of a product they don’t sell 😉

[@vilipmak3973]

@@delvalle9256 Actually I sold it the next day for our full asking.

[@delvalle9256]

@jay the review unit they own is a trade in

[@markhusbands6132]

I am confused and was hoping you watched this review....I also wonder if those speakers are to the manufacturer's spec. I now wish them to purchase a new pair, break them in and review them properly set up...to give an official opinion. It should not end there.

[@cactusbylin]

They are second hand trade-ins. Could it be possible that they were damaged by the previous owner? Maybe you should try another pair of S400 speakers just to make sure.

[@adrianlow2114]

Although they were trade -ins, the previous owner did not abuse them. He is a long time client and a friend.

[@glennjones6574]

no

[@adrianlow2114]

No they were not damaged by the original owner

[@madsbuchardt7845]

Don't know why my comment was lost, but I do really mean that I would be happy to arrange shipping back to check the pair, there is clearly something wrong with it :) Best regards Mads Buchardt :)

[@vilipmak3973]

What if there isn't? And clearly lots of people who have owned these heard what we heard from the ones they purchased.

[@madsbuchardt7845]

@@vilipmak3973 I know they do not fall into everyone's taste, nothing does in the world of Hifi. it's not a speaker that leans particularly to one or the other side when talking bright or warm. from what's being explained, I can hear that something is not right, as some of the findings goes directly against how they do sound, and how they are known to sound from reviewers and users all over the world. Would be very odd if a speaker that is actually as bad as being described here, would have been on the market for so many years as an "hyped" product. Hyped is ushally because it's being liked by most. So I'm confident that something not right here, and I would love to find out what it could be 🤔

[@vilipmak3973]

@@madsbuchardt7845 The speakers have been sold. And the new owner likes it quite a bit as he thinks they are much better than the speakers he has been using for 2 years. However, he has stated concerns based on our online negative response and appraisal. We have offered to buy the speakers back and test them. We shall see what his reply will be. Adrian and I both found the micro-dynamics to be less than and consequently found the speaker to lack "life". I played my standard test tracks and at no point responded physically - no hairs were standing. But as you can see in the comments for this video, ours was not an uncommon opinion of how these speakers sound. I have had a further discussion with Jay and he has offered to bring a pair of the speakers he still has in his possession to the store and allow for additional listening. So, again, we shall see…

[@buckethead84]

@@vilipmak3973 if in a smaller room try stands in the 28 to 30 inch range

[@madsbuchardt7845]

@@vilipmak3973 ahh I see. Well you can just have him email me, then I can arrange this with him, if he wants them inspected, I would be happy to help with getting them back to us, and back to him again. But anyway, keep up the good work with the channel here, all the best

[@Sam_CL350]

I find this review very interesting. I had purchased a pair of the S400 MKII to replace my Wharfedale Linton 85th Anniversary Edition speakers based on all of the positive reviews on KZbin. I have been wanting to try different speakers so I could get the best sound from my small room. For comparison purposes I bought a speaker switch box so I could actively switch between speaker pairs. Before I hooked up the switch box I listened to the MKIIs for several hours to see how I liked them. Although I thought the speakers sounded good, I didn't think they were great. I felt something was missing. I then hooked up the switch box figuring that anything introduced from it would affect both pair of the speakers the same so I would have a reasonably good idea between the two. I was really surprised at the difference between the two sets of speakers. I definitely preferred the Wharfedale Linton's. Forgive my ignorance of terminology but I thought the Buchardt's had a muffled tone to them and lacked body. I thought the soundstage was wider on the MKII but the midrange wasn't there. Overall I much preferred the Linton's. I am thankful Buchardt had a respectable trial period and I was able to return them for reasonable fee. I ended up doing the same experiment with the Linton's and the KEF LS50 Meta. I'm keeping the Linton's In the end it's all what the listener prefers. It's easy to get on this crazy train and chase the sound. Quite frankly, I'm tired of it. If it sounds good. Just enjoy it. Side note I don't know if the switch box I purchased added or subtracted from the speakers or not but it was really nice for comparison purposes. For me it's hard to remember the differences when comparing after switching back and forth. It's like walking into a store with a wall full of TVs. Alone they all look good if not great but when placed side by side you'll know what you prefer immediately. Forgot to mention I was driving the speakers with a Hegel H95.

[@vilipmak3973]

The switch box if anything would have taken away from both sets of speakers. Speaker switch boxes have a constant impedance to always present the same load regardless of how many pairs of speakers are connected.

[@markhusbands6132]

Were the Buchardt or kef speakers broken in before this comparison. Both of those speakers require a lengthy break in period as a number of owners have pointed out in the chat. I am a former LS50 owner and can attest to that.

[@thunderpooch]

@@markhusbands6132 break-in is so over emphasized. The fact is if break-in made a significant difference, the companies would break them in for you. No ifs, ands, or buts, about it Why would a speaker company attempt to sell you something that doesn't sound as good as it possibly can within a reasonabke limit? Hint: they won't. Break-in is mostly psychological. Yes there is some benefits to some break-in with some speakers, but it's mostly marketing hype. The fact is, you will get used to your speakers' flaws the longer you spend with them. And you're often slowly but surely setting up your room to compensate for your speaker's flaws. If the tweeter runs hot, you'll toe them in appropriately and damp your room. If the mid range is lacking, you'll turn your sub down a wee bit and make your room more lively. On and on this goes as you learn to accept your speakers. This is mostly the process of "break-in". Also, your brain does a good job working with your ears to ignore certain sounds.

[@2010aloy]

@@thunderpooch i own a pair of Buchardt s400 MKIIs, KEF R300 and Dynaudio special 40 and i find them all good though they have their differences. From my experience of owning these speakers as well as Emit M30s and KEF Q300s earlier breakin does seem to be real. I didn't find the M30s and the special 40s so open sounding in the highs initially for at least 3 to 6 months. The sound seemed to have opened up after maybe 300 hours and in my case after 4 to 5 months of listening to them. Same happened with the Buchardt as well. Initially they sounded a lil dark like the highs were not so good. I had a primare i35 connected in the 1st 2 weeks and then i switched to Hegel H80 and they seemed to pair better. The highs gradually seemed to have opened up over days and weeks from the moment i paired it with the H80. If it happened once I'd say my ears and mind must be playin tricks on me but it happened with all my speakers including the R300 though the R300s had a quicker breakin time while Dynaudio and Buchardts took weeks to months. I think speaker manufacturers would be reluctant to mention about breakin in the user manual (even the REL s510 subwoofer user manual I bought mentions about breakin time though i couldn't figure out the difference with the sub even after owning it for a year now) if it wasn't real cause its mechanical moving parts anyway. Even now after 6 months of using the Buchardts their highs are not as open and airy sounding than the special 40s. The highs are good enough to present themselves when the recording has a good dose of it and even then its not so prominent like with the special 40s or the Emit M30s or the KEFs. And as if to reconfirm this for me when i first connected the Buchardts my wife said they're not good that the special 40s are better. After days or weeks she then said they're not so bad', they're better than what they sounded like initially but that special 40s are better. I was a drummer in a band when i was 12 and I've been passionate about music from a very young age. So i would say I'm somewhat intimately familiar and good with identifying the great, good and not so good when it comes to music and sound quality and in my view the Buchardts are quite good. They are able to deliver a very linear / balanced presentation over the frequency spectrum with no over emphasis on neither the highs, bass nor the mids. They sound muscular compared to the special 40s. The special 40s are quite good with some emphasis on the highs, tighter bass, slightly more refined and dynamic but I wouldn't say they're way better, they're just different. While the Emit M30s had a somewhat V shaped sound with the highs especially being a lil more prominent and some punch to bass probably cause of having 2 mid bass drivers and a bigger cabinet.

[@rog86]

@@2010aloy im thinking of getting the i35, also the special 40 maybe. What was youre overall view of the i35, and do you still use it? Che er s

[@2010aloy]

Its perfectly okay for you guys or anyone else to not like certain sound characteristics / attributes of a speaker system as much. What baffles me is how come some of these popular and respected reviewers like Sean, Thomas, Steve, Tarun, Nima and a few others hardly had anything negative to say about them. Not trying to say there's something wrong with you guys or all the other reviewers - its just so unbelievable that some of your and their observations are almost be on opposite ends. Its like they all said wow its amazing, its great, very good bass, very good mid range, etc. and then you folks come along and say almost the opposite. Maybe you should consider inviting Sean, Thomas and Tarun for a discussion so it helps all of us understand how and why all of you view these so differently. Might help since your review has woken up a lot of souls already. I own a pair of Buchardt s400 MKIIs and i also have the special 40s and KEF R300s. I find the s400s quite good comparatively. The highs are not so airy and can sound recessed. However the highs do present themselves well when the highs are prominent in the track. I can obviously easily pick up on Hi hat and cymbal sounds when they're more prominent in some of the tracks. I dont see anything wrong with mids nor the bass. They can tend to sound less dynamic with some music and less refined than the s40s. In your case I see 3 possibilites - one is you folks are exposed to hi end gear for years and maybe decades. This may have elevated your expectations for sound quality that is probably much higher than what most speakers in this price category can deliver. Your reference gear might be more expensive & much better sounding. An analogy could be you've been owning, selling and driving Lamborghini's, Aston Martins, Bentleys, Rolls-Royce, etc. for years. If you're given a Hyundai or a Toyota for review, you may find it just okay, boring, not so great, etc. But the average person who's never laid their hands on a Aston Martin or a Lambo may find Toyota's to be quite good and rave about them. Other possiblity is there's something off with that pair. Hopefully once you get to listen to another pair like from Jay or anybody else we'll know. Try them in a different room with other amps as well just to see if it is actually sounding different or better. I won't be surprised if your observations remain more or less the same. Sometimes weird things happen - like all 5 of you not liking something cause you're able to pick up something most of us are not able to or something bout it is not just to your taste or for the reasons i mentioned above. It probably makes all of you look like pros with very good taste and high expectations of what good speakers should sound like. Lastly, maybe the product is actually not as good and we're not just able to put a finger on it or we dont know what good sound is or are okay to live with its flaws. I dont personally find the MKIIS superb - they just sound good to me. I use a Hegel H80 with them which seems to have better synergy with them than my Primare i35. I will be trying these with my 3rd Amp which is a exposure 3510. This sure is puzzling like hell - 1 or 2 or 3 not liking may have seemed normal but all 5 in the room not liking it is super abnormal and super weird to me. Please dont misunderstand- its not like im pissed off as a s400 MKII owner cause you folks didn't like it as much. Not every piece of gear will be to everyone's liking and thats a given. Some folks praise Hegel while ive seen people say Hegel is overhyped, dull and boring etc. Im just a lil dumbfounded cause none of the 5 of you found the speakers good for what its worth.

[@vilipmak3973]

Some reviewers, actually most, will not say anything negative - that's my observation. These Buchardts are supposed to be "Giant Killers". I did not hear that they are as good as a pair of Sf Minima Amators. Simply put, they don't really compare to speakers two to three times the cost. The Buchardt might be comparable to something at the same price point, ie. Sf Sonetto I or II. The Buchardt is a competent enjoyable speaker - that is it. That's not a condemnation but it is my assessment.

[@2010aloy]

@@vilipmak3973 Thanks for responding Vilip. What you're saying here sounds more reasonable. The video by John describing these as giant killers was actually a april fools day video. He wasn't serious about what he said there from what i can tell. I don't fully buy into everything thats said about audio gear by whoever it might be but i have to admit it does negatively or positively influence my perception and interest in the product and consequently at least partially influence one's buying decisions. Some of us don't always get to listen to the gear before making a purchase. BTW, I love listening to you and Adrian talk on all things audio. Sorry to say this but the way the assessment was put across especially by Lewis was a bit messy. I know he mis-spoke when he said there is no mid-range but from months of listening to it with Hegel i can say with certainty that the bass is far from sounding flabby and the mid range is good enough but if thats what he heard so be it. Anyway there's always scope for improvement for all of us and we all learn from our experiences. Hopefully this won't make the other reviewers look like they're not being honest and genuine in their assessments or that they're sold out. I find some of them to be quite good actually especially Thomas and Tarun. I can say this cause is the case of the equipment I have their observations matched mine. Maybe 80 to 90%. Is why i was suggesting catching up with one of them to clear the air if you think it makes sense. Mads also seems to be quite accessible.

[@kirkgibson6293]

I was concerned with my MK2s but kept on pushing on, after around 100 hours they really opened up and came to life. Paired with a Hegel H360.

[@2010aloy]

Was almost the same with me. Sounded better after using my Hegel H80 (had connected them to primare i35 class D initially) and after maybe 3 to 6 weeks or so. It was somewhat of a relief they opened up. The tweeters hardly had any life in them initially. Dynaudio special 40s took 3 to 6 months to open up so i wasn't too worried cause I've seen this happen before.

[@latecomerr]

Have a Hegel 360 "really rare amp" pushing Sebelius "Pearl Acoustics" loved them But the Hegel woke them up wow. I have a Hegel 590 attached to Zu's best Soul 5" paid 5000 for them with a sub "Reveal" made in Las Vegas outstanding just like my Maggies but better in giving a in audience experience.

[@kirkaparty4143]

They could be defects or Not broken in. Mine needed about 100 hours and then sounded excellent. Its more natural and not as warm as Sonus Faber

[@turbo2288]

I don't believe a word these guys said, a total of five people in the video all stated they didn't like the speaker, while almost 'the rest of the the world" love it ??!! The British audiophile is much more trustworthy.

[@ronlysons6750]

Not so sure about that.

[@vilipmak3973]

Actually, lots of people who bought them don't. Only most of the Internet-based reviewers "love" them.

[@ronlysons6750]

@@vilipmak3973 The problem with most You Tube reviewers is the they are caught between a rock and a hard place. If they start giving bad reviews, then they won't get any gear to review. I mean, why would you, a bad review could, seriously dent sales. British Audiophile openly admits he won't give a product a bad review, He would just send it back. So the reality is whatever he reviews gets a minimum recommended. He's not the only one,. I'm fairly new to you tube in the short time I've watched them I've come.to the conclusion, you tube reviews are full of crap. The only one worth a watch I know of is John Darko.

[@ronlysons6750]

Don't get me wrong, the problem with the internet is everything on there is gospel. If the internet says the are the best thing since sliced bread, it must be true. If the internet say they are a load of junk, that's also true. At the end of the day you have make your own mind up. Like Andrew Robinson says the only sound that matters is what your happy with.

[@petekutheis3822]

@@ronlysons6750 lol the only thing ok about darko is he uses that sweet girl for intros and edit work. He comes across as an ego filled pompous sort that I put in the same ilk as VonSchweikert lovin Weaver.

[@t0nyxgq]

Great discussion and I value your honest opinions. Looking forward to the Denafrips Ares II review.

[@anthonyjrcan]

I’m grateful for you guys making these videos, I bought the ares ii based off of all the amazing reviews and based off what people said it sounds like, when I listened to it it couldn’t be any further. I personally believe all these people are instructed maybe even coordinated on what to say about a product.

[@avamae2013]

I’m really surprised, guys. I’m auditioning a pair of S400 mkII’s on Hegel amplification and they sound great even out of the box. Yes, they’re not the brightest speaker around, but tonally they’re fantastic. I’d say they’re a touch on the warm side of neutral. They’ve also been shown to measure very well at audio science review.

[@ChaiBearProductions]

I agree. I’ve heard much more expensive speakers and whole heartedly prefer the Buchardts. The tone and timbre is beautiful. Very neutral with a hint of warmth like you’ve said. They sound so natural. Nothing sounds exaggerated. It just sounds right to my ears. Everyone hears different and maybe this speakers just not to their taste.

[@avamae2013]

It makes me think that higher end gear is deliberately ‘tuned’ to produce a signature sound. That was my experience with PMC bookshelf speakers, which have an excellent reputation but I found exaggerated the treble. They measured that way too.

[@ChaiBearProductions]

@@avamae2013 I agree. That’s why I like these speakers. They are natural while being resolving and not bright. The bass is incredibly taught. I have a T9/x and sometimes think it’s on when it isn’t. The bass is that textured and deep.

[@AbsoluteFidelity]

The S400MKII were not officially measured on ASR, they were done by Napilopez using quasi anechoic measurements gated at 8ms which is quite accurate and it doesnt look that good with that dip from 800hz to 1.8khz. Amir and Erin measured the MKI and it doesnt look great either. "Very well" isnt quite true, i doubt it would get the highest panther rating from Amir based on Napi's measurements. Ive heard these speakers, there are ok and not bad but they arent great either.

[@avamae2013]

@@AbsoluteFidelity Yes, that is correct. I interpreted napilopez’s measurements quite favourably. The dip you mention is in the vocal region where the ear is most sensitive and can cause the most fatigue. Perhaps the AEC guys prefer a more forward speaker.

[@frostycanada6404]

Hello guys, I’m really enjoying this mini series of product reviews of components not normally sold through your store. Very insightful. I checked the specs of the S400mk2 and they do seem to measure really well (nice and flat) with good in room response. I personally have a pair of Buchardt S300mk2 for movie watching and I find them to be great. The S300 throw a huge amount of sound energy into the room but listening to music can be a mix bag. I tend to prefer a speaker with a more narrow dispersion, brighter top end and a touch more forwards in presentation. Many thanks to the Audio Excellence team for putting this together. Brian

[@adrianlow2114]

Thanks Brian

[@mnfv77]

My guess is that they werent placed correctly in the room and must have been some frequency cancelations.

[@frostycanada6404]

@@mnfv77 Hello Marco, I agree. I don’t deny that they were having issues with the speaker but they didn’t provide any information on placement or any attempt to address the issue they were having with placement / equipment. My Buchardt S300 throws a lot a sound into my room and are great on and off axis … but their presentation might not be for everyone. Take care, Brian

[@GIBro-rm4of]

Perhaps invite Jay to have a listen? He should be able to determine if there is something faulty with the speakers, compared to his pair.

[@vilipmak3973]

That's PAIRS!

[@glennjones6574]

there's nothing wrong with the speakers. c'mon now

[@markhusbands6132]

Adrian, the Buchardt direct sales model has worldwide shipping and duties included in those advertised prices You can verify this as you said the opposite in the video.

[@adrianlow2114]

Thanks for the clarification

[@TJ-gz1ij]

Thankyou Thomas and Stereo for the in-depth review. I didn't know Thomas was part of Audio excellence though....

[@imosolar]

I've owned the buchard S400 speakers for years with class A tube power amplifier and it was awesome. It's the mismatch of the amplifier. And you got 30 day Trial

[@tntafoulis]

45 days now

[@adrianlow2114]

I tried the speakers with Hegel H120 and Peachtree PreDac/Gan400 combination

[@paulbentley7011]

I own these.... I sent the bluesound back straight away I just get the impression that you guys had a bad set up. How can audiophiles rate these so highly? Something not right with this review....

[@mitchy5994]

I upgraded from the p300 to the s400mk ii. Watching this video scared me because I thought these were superior to the p300. Now after reading all the comments, my stress levels went down drastically. Very little agree with what they were saying. I loved the p300, so I'm sure I'll love these even more. I am very confused why they believed the speakers had no weight in the bass region, but were also dark at the same time? Possibly due to their room having 20ft ceilings?

[@RigVader]

I own the S400 MK1 and find it really needs the right amp. Hooking it up with the Rega Aethos transformed that speaker TBH (after trying it with 4 other amps). Note that I am a low level listener. Interestingly the same amp livened up the S400 and tamed my much more detailed/analytical B&W Nautilus 805. In general I have to agree that relying on online reviews alone is a problem, especially if you are picky about what you like. Within the same year I bought the KLH Model 5, Denafrips Ares II and Hegel H90 and disliked all of them (especially the H90, which I bought on end of life at 50% and still would never ovn. Stepping up to the Hegel H190 I could live with it, though it made me think of my shopping list and look out the window). I have bought Rel subs and Exposure 2510 based on online reviews and that was a great success. But yeah, I prefer to find what I like at a dealer, which is where I got the Rega Aethos (and realized that I did not like the Accuphase at double the price that the dealer prefered). Or buy used at good prices so you can try a lot of stuff without loosing a lot of money.

[@doifeellucky]

Thanks for the feedback. I’m interested in the 2510. What speakers do you use with them?

[@RigVader]

@@doifeellucky I sold it in favor of the Rega Aethos (which is in another class and price range). I used it with the B&W 805 and S400. Great at low listening levels. I would personally spend a little more to get a used Rega Aethos than a new Exposure 2015.

[@doifeellucky]

@@RigVader Thanks I’m also looking at the new Elicit mk5.

[@RigVader]

@@doifeellucky yes, I am considering that amp for a second system too :-) if it’s anything like the Aethos it should awesome. I’m still rocking the old Rega DAC (preferred it to the Ares II) so internal DAC has a good chance of being good too 👍

[@sebastiandroguettpizarro9551]

I heard this speakers today and by no means they are bad , they sound superb . I think the top end tends to sound a bit clinical for me ,but overall a great speaker , the bass region is very detailed (I’m missing now that in my sonetto II) and imaging is great but is not good enough to let it go the sonetto II

[@sylvio1980]

This is so out of character for you guys, I’m a little suspicious. To be fair, you should have gotten a new pair and break it in.

[@markhusbands6132]

Exactly!!

[@ryanlucas7588]

Brave, but good to hear this opinion. I compared the Dynaudio Special 40 and much preferred the Buchardt S400 (though I would not mind owning both). Perhaps you should hear it in Jay's setup? I also find that placement of this speaker is very finnicky. It can sound extremely boring - beaming and peaky as described. It took me a long time to find the correct placement and toe in to sound as it does.

[@vilipmak3973]

If you saw Jay's setup, you would be shocked.

[@gokhanersan8561]

My boombox speakers would sound like Infinity towers with Jay’s setup. Nope, wouldn’t try it.

[@RigVader]

Interesting 😀 Debating whether to upgrade my MK1, get the MK2 or just get a used Dynaudio Contour 20 or C1, for not that much more money myself. Did you hear either of those in comparison to the S400? Would love to try a higher end Sonus Faber too, regardless funds don’t allow me to buy that level of speaker at full price 💰

[@ryanlucas7588]

@@RigVader I compared the Contour 20 vs the Special 40 and like the Contour 20 a bit more. I am in the same predicament - love the S400 so much that I would like to try the MK2 - but apparently it sounds quite different.

[@RigVader]

I find height to be very important with the S400 MK1, move your head up and down and the sound changes quite a bit. Setup on 60cm stands they sounded off, needed 70cm. Horizontally they are incredibly consistent as you move around. The other thing is that they are likely to excite the room because of its unusual amount of bass, so had to tweak placement for that. I honestly prefer being able to position a more bass shy speaker for imaging and use a few quality subs to complete the picture, but then again I’m always in small rooms 😊

[@snomofilms]

Thanks for this honest review. With so many gushing over this speaker- this saved many from a big purchase mistake.

[@buckethead84]

This review was a mistake lol

[@billwillard9410]

There’s a 45 day return policy, so plenty of time to send them back.

[@Tim216-m5l]

This review is wrong. I bought these speakers and they’re definitely not what these guys are saying especially the old guy said it absolutely has no midrange. They are good speakers but not great and I sold them after few weeks. Speaker preference is subjective but whether a midrange is present or not is not.

[@Gadgetdad007]

@@Tim216-m5l maybe the old guy needs some fresh batteries for his hearing aid.

[@manuelrobledo5106]

Could the negative review be because they don’t sell them?

[@enniol8043]

They own it and have to sell it. Also if not, they would not have to purposely go out of their way to criticize a 2000 Euro speaker as it would have very little impact on their business.

[@manuelrobledo5106]

@@enniol8043 they aren’t a dealer for it schmuck

[@henriksrensen3220]

They don't. You can only buy them directly from the Buchardt factory

[@manuelrobledo5106]

@@henriksrensen3220 Precisely genius

[@ganck1147]

These spks really sound terrible to me. I never understood the hype behind them other then the fact that buchardt has been paying for all these positive reviews.

[@CaptainCrunch823]

Thanks for another great video guys. I heard a lot of mentions about pairing with Hegel but did you try any other pairings such as Naim? I don’t have any dog in this fight but am a bit confused why your impressions are so different from other highly respected reviewers.

[@adrianlow2114]

I tried the Peachtree PreDac/GAN400 combo with the speakers

[@mitchsefton9402]

Thanks for an interesting and considered review. It is curious that the experience of the three of you is at such odds with the consensus view of extremely varied audio reviewers across printed and electronic media that this is a fantastic speaker. Given that this was a single speaker and you were all so underwhelmed ( and I have absolutely no reason to doubt your experiences ) I think it would be worthwhile reaching out to Max Buchardt to get his view. It could be the speakers are defective in some manner - maybe a problem with crossover components ? Though they are marketed as Danish they are actually manufactured in Indonesia and it might be a quality control issue with that speaker - or batch of speakers. Of course that raises a number of other interesting questions but I would love for you to follow up this review with Mr Buchardt's view ( I believe he is extremely responsive and receptive to feedback ) and perhaps review a second sample. Whatever the results they're bound to be extremely interesting !

[@adrianlow2114]

Good idea, thanks

[@adrianlow2114]

We are certainly very open to Buchardt sending us a pair to evaluate. I can promise that we would do so honestly

[@Tim216-m5l]

@@adrianlow2114 shouldn’t you then try to find another pair to confirm before posting this ‘review’? I stopped watching as soon as one of you said there is absolutely no midrange. I owned these speakers. I sold them since I prefer my other speakers but it is wrong to say it has no midrange and it’s not a matter of subjectivity.

[@adrianlow2114]

@@Tim216-m5l Hi Tim, perhaps Lewis poorly articulated. Obviously the midrange wasn't damaged as neither Vilip nor I heard it. Watch the response video for more clarification. For what it's worth, I am confident the speakers are not damaged, which is NOT the same as "not to manufacturer specifications". It's certainly possible that this pair left the factory "defective" relative to the design intent. In this regard, I have/had no way to verify, but I will be pursuing this issue further

[@khallgrimsen]

I had them for a couple of weeks. I feel the same way. They just sounded off in a weird way. Tried out lots of different positions but didnt help. Most speakers blend very easy in my room. And these are supposed to be easy to place🤷‍♂️ No go for me too.

[@buckethead84]

They're not easy to place actually - I think they're fantastic speakers, but more care/instruction should come from the manufacturer about placement, especially if you're sitting 3 meters or less away from them they should be on 28-30 inch stands, IMO.

[@francisdelacruz6439]

Nothing like visiting a client who really likes it at their listening room. Could be a variety of factors. For many B&W, Sonus Faber Lumina and lower end Focals are really bright sharp to the point many people can't stand them for long, if your used to this neutral would be lame, kind of like tasting you need water in between tastings. Matter of preference still. Maybe a headphone set up is a quick reminder of neutrality during testing

[@jackfalco5351]

There’s nothing overly bright about my focal 906s

[@francisdelacruz6439]

@@jackfalco5351 Focals in general like B&W using metal tweeters have a house sound that's detailed and brighter than fabric based tweeters. You could of course partner with equipment to make it sound smooth and less so but the same with fabric tweeters. Matter of preference and degree and set up would influence system sound...

[@jonathandavis9507]

Luminas are quite lifted in the treble. You’ll never hear symbol hits like that live. But some people prefer that.

[@dannyfannyfoodle]

I believe that your comments concerning the Buchardts are sincere and have no reason to doubt it, but it would have been EXTREMELY helpful and much more constructive if you had offered a couple of alternatives at or around the same price point and even more credible if one or two of those alternatives were also products that you don’t sell. Without that, I find this 23 minute discussion to be, mostly, a waste of time.

[@vilipmak3973]

And thank you for watching the entirety of it.

[@vilipmak3973]

Here's an alternative to the Buchardt and something I own and use. LS3/5A. Oh, yah - we don't sell it either.

[@vilipmak3973]

You could try the PMC twenty5.21i. And we also don't sell them.

[@dannyfannyfoodle]

@@vilipmak3973 Thanks, Vilip - I really did watch the whole thing. Looking forward to the Denafrips discussion.

[@latecomerr]

New series II KEFs bookshelf powered speakers looks like around the world they are a reference speaker for a lot of people with multiple systems!!

[@rickcarlson5916]

Thank you for an honest review.

[@Nick-sk1qp]

You made a good point that I missed - Buchardt has reached out to them. I still believe if AEC is going to evaluate a speaker that is typically not one they carry and critically dislike it, they should at least have evaluated a new set of Buchardt’s to ensure there are no technical issues with the speaker. And yes, there is no guarantee new speakers can get damaged during shipping, there more than likely is a better chance of the speakers not having any defects. I’m hope AEC send them back to Buchardt for evaluation.

[@vilipmak3973]

When did Buchardt reach out to us?

[@ChaiBearProductions]

@@vilipmak3973 They made a comment earlier regarding the review. I believe it was Mads Buchardt himself. I can’t seem to find it now. Maybe they retracted it? They offered to send you a brand new pair to review.

[@slyfoxx8540]

@@ChaiBearProductions nah its still there. Second from the top when I looked.

[@adrianlow2114]

Unfortunately they were sold, but I have offered to buy them back. The owner says he likes them very much so we shall see ... they were definitely NOT damaged by the original owner, but certainly possible that they were Defective vis a vis the design intent. I leave this last option open as it is always possible

[@bencausey]

I had them recently along with the KLH 5’s for comparison. Returned them after 2 days of trying every placement arrangement I could. The 5’s were far superior.

[@kirkaparty4143]

2 days is not enough, needs at least 100 hours, and the sound improves greatly

[@billwillard9410]

You need to give any piece of gear a little more time than that. Making snap decisions can have you constantly getting/returning equipment. It took a long time for the mki’s to settle in, and it was bizarre because I stopped what I was doing because I heard a change in them. I didn’t experience that with the mkii’s but the process should be the same.

[@jakus514]

@@kirkaparty4143 agreed, break in is no joke, especially with these speakers. I almost returned mine until I hit 50 hours and they came alive

[@Thumpur69]

@@kirkaparty4143 Maybe your pair did but my pair never changed same bland sound... did not get better and I am bitterly dissappointed

[@guillaumeSONY]

I mean it's not a surprise that an audio store not selling Buchardt (and probably selling less speakers because of them) is not liking the speaker 😂. Of course they will say that the Sonus Faber they sell are way better...

[@kirkaparty4143]

They could be defects or Not broken in. Mine needed about 100 hours and then sounded excellent. Its more natural and not as warm as Sonus Faber

[@gg0297]

Haha, yup!

[@Tim216-m5l]

Totally!!

[@halfmanhalfbiscuit]

Now I think we're geting nearer the truth. One of the guys said they stock them, yet they clearly don't? That's so disingenuous.

[@viggozing598]

Could your used trade-in samples possibly have an assembly defect in their complex crossovers?

[@Thumpur69]

You guys nailed it, I own a pair of these speakers and I am bitterly disappointed in them... All hype, they are not bad speakers but not great as all the hype, not worth the money in my opinion. The speakers do a great at imaging and that's about it. I am saving my pennies for the a pair of Dynaoudio.

[@keirrobinson7104]

Send them back then and be happy they have a great returns policy?

[@Thumpur69]

@@keirrobinson7104 Wish I could but but by the time I arrived home from my overseas work trip I was way passed the return date.

[@cmessi]

You own Dynaudio now?

[@psyphonyxaudio]

THIS is great... I like this new feel =) Kudos!!! Hilarious.

[@AudioExcellenceCanada]

Glad you like it!

[@sylvio1980]

First guy compares it to Dynaudio special 40s that costs twice as much. It appears to me their expectations were a bit too high.

[@gg0297]

Yeah. Comparing apples to potatoes is not a great start of a review.

[@adrianlow2114]

So how do you reconcile the fact that neither Vilip nor I liked it either, and we didn't say anything about speakers that cost more

[@sylvio1980]

@@adrianlow2114 Hello Adrian ! I’m a big fan of your channel and I believe your opinions are credible. But this video struck me a little out of character. One, I believe you should have bought a new pair and break it in and second, compare it to something in that price range. I just felt that harsh criticism like that had some hidden agenda behind it and was so out of character for you guys. Continue doing great work, looking forward to more vids. Good day !

[@cmessi]

You cannot compare those prices, because Buchardt is selling directly from factory.

[@DTHUNDERDK]

You should all know the there is no middleman. S400 is sold directly to the end user. If there was a middleman the would cost 40% more. Maybe more. That is why the comparison with DA S40 is fair.

[@mediascapes2011]

Did you guys burn them in?

[@brandonburr4900]

This just goes to show how subjective our hobby is. I didn't hear much for comparisons you guys have or sell in that same range? The dynaudio special 40 doesn't count as it's more $$. What's comparable in the sonus Faber line ? Also, almost makes you think something is almost broken with the speaker given the huge diversity of opinions from other reviews. Thanks!

[@billwillard9410]

They offer a 45 day return policy, which is more than enough time to determine if you love it/hate it.

[@marcopignone9386]

This review sounds accurate as to the s400 mk 1 that I owned for a few months. I haven't heard this new version.

[@zoranpavlovic3319]

I received my pair of S400 MK2 today. Drive them with Pass Labs XA 30.8, Lampizator DAC and Innuos player. Well, after 4-5 hours of listening I Like them much more over Dynaudio Evoke 50 I have. I don’t consider S400 MK2 as high-end speaker but In the league of up to $5k I think I made good choice. For example, Marten Parker Duo with passive radiator is $11k

[@wegardfjeld3789]

I think the most honest review in this channel just came from your comment. Something is coloured and it isn't buchards sound 😆

[@zoranpavlovic3319]

@@wegardfjeld3789 Thanks, right :)

[@cmessi]

Can you describe any differences between Evoke and Buchardt?

[@zoranpavlovic3319]

@@cmessi Well, the differences are big, since Evoke 50 has 2 bass drivers, 1 middle and 1 tweeter. The bass is heavier and reacher than in the S400 MK2, but treble and highs are pretty good on the S400 MK2. Since I have a power amp in A class, and a tube preamp, Evoke brought too many bass in my room. I sold Evoke and am now on S400 MK2. Pretty sure I will add some sub.

[@cmessi]

@@zoranpavlovic3319 ok, thanks. I liked the Evoke 20s mids and very smooth treble. Only the bass a little too much. Are the highs on the S400 also smooth? Non-fatiguing?

[@thedatajanitor9537]

I have them and they are the best speakers I've ever heard. Nothing is close under 2K. I sold my SF and my B&Ws. Now, I do believe the sonus faber minima amators sound warmer but not cleaner. Maybe you need to get your hearing checked.

[@slyfoxx8540]

@@carlosoliveira-rc2xt so what speakers would you recommend at that price point then?

[@t0pmarks]

@@carlosoliveira-rc2xt How do you know how much his home costs? What a repulsive thing to say.

[@adrianlow2114]

I have ... have you?

[@thedatajanitor9537]

@@slyfoxx8540 I love my MK2. I paid under 2k for mine with the open box thing. I haven't heard anything better at this price point.

[@slyfoxx8540]

@@thedatajanitor9537 👍 good to hear you like them.

[@graemetodd3983]

Hello from New Zealand. So awesome to come home from work and tune in to the 3 stooges🤣.. love the reviews of past & present of hi-fi gear, opinions and banter. Love it ! PS: Please don't forget to insert the intro music (fly with me) to your video's as that piece of music sounds so awesome and goes hand in hand with your channel. All the best, stay safe. Kind regards, Graeme.

[@adrianlow2114]

Thanks Graeme

[@mattolsziewski7164]

You guys did the unboxing on the Focal Aria 948 quite some time ago and said you would do a review, but if I’m not mistaken the video never came. Would love to see that video!

[@vilipmak3973]

We were eventually not allowed to sell focal - hence no review. We actually never listened to the Aria 948.

[@mattolsziewski7164]

@@vilipmak3973 ahh thanks for the reply, makes sense

[@frankiefen]

Your assessment is correct. Bought the original S400 and they sounded exactly as you described. Lack of sparkles and dull to listen to. I'm glad I've sold them at what I have paid.

[@scudder2010]

Thanks to all three of you for the honest review! Now, Sean at Zero Fidelity (the guy with a bed in his listening room) made some complaints about your video in his latest livestream. He said you placed the Buchardts in a bad room made of glass. he also said you made no effort to set them up properly. Do you have a reply for him?

[@vilipmak3973]

If they're that super sensitive about placement as to be the difference between good and bad, that's a big issue. What if you move your head when listening? How really narrow is the acceptable performance envelope for this speaker? And who is he to say we made no effort? Was he there in the room? And do we throw stones in his glass house?

[@scudder2010]

@@vilipmak3973 I agree with you. It was a cheap shot on his part.

[@andyj2120]

Sean is one of the most BIASED reviewers on KZbin...he does not practice what he preaches. SELL SELL

[@Sergiobendit]

I've never heard of them, but maybe you could have used a Hegel H390? I don't know I only read good things about them. Maybe the amps used are not ideal. I don't know anyone in Spain who has one to be able to give an opinion. Very good video as always, thanks

[@Tim216-m5l]

I bought the S400 mk2 because of the hype and I sold them after about two months. They are good but not great and I still prefer my floor standing speakers. There must be something wrong with the speakers that you bought to say they absolutely don’t have any mid-range and the treble is recessed. I have few speakers at home costing 5-6 times the S400 mk2 and the Buchardt are comparable to them. The only thing I found a little lacking is the bass. You’d need a subwoofer for these. I think you guys should get another pair of speakers and redo the review. There must be someone close to where you are that can lend you another pair. What you are doing here is bashing a good product based on a defective sample

[@vilipmak3973]

But then you are assuming it is defective. Only Lewis thought there was no "midrange". And obviously he misspoke. He just didn't like the midrange.

[@Tim216-m5l]

@@vilipmak3973 to say that it has no midrange is bullshit. Either it’s defective or he is deaf, simple as that

[@stevenbauer1730]

@@Tim216-m5l Vilip just explained that Lewis misspoke when he said there was no midrange and that in fact there was midrange, but Lewis didn't like it. Did you bother to read Vilip's comment before posting a reply that makes no sense in light of his comment/explanation.

[@gerard3797]

Lacking mid range is just plain ridicule. Either something wrong with the speakers or the partnering equipment.

[@wegardfjeld3789]

No, he is literally saying they did a butch job and either something is wrong with equipment or wrong with the review based on loads of trusted reviewers and experienced hi fidelity people. 3 guys vs xxxxx sound equipment professionals disagree 😆

[@toddcovington1172]

Love it! A real reveiw!

[@henriksrensen3220]

All the other reviews are not real??

[@khoi83]

By real he probably means brutally honest. The other raving reviews sometimes sounds cheesy. We can say that those reviewers here don,t get money from Burchardt, the others maybe got money from them (or a free pair) who knows.

[@henriksrensen3220]

@@khoi83 no they don't

[@vilipmak3973]

@@henriksrensen3220 The other reviewers do get free speakers.

[@henriksrensen3220]

@@vilipmak3973 certanly not all of them. Of course these guys promote the speakers they are selling like sonus faber, they have an interest. Of course they don't want to promote buchardt speakers. You should always be skeptical, and listen for yourself. These guys rave over Hegel amplifiers, not surpricing though since they sell hegel. Hegel is not bad, but it is not great either. Hegel sound is bland.

[@spigdon]

Get Jay to flesh out the truth!

[@EM-ke8is]

Would be nice for you to hear a second pair, also there is an active version with sound tuning built in with simple download from site with a USB which is getting high praise .

[@adrianlow2114]

Yes it would

[@thierryalauze4003]

As I own them right now and still in between to decide to keep them or not.... I was happy to hear some new opinions to know if my feelings are right or not about these... But I really really really don't recognize the speakers I'm listening during your description. The way you speak about midrange, female voice, low volume... it sounds like you're speaking about another pair of speakers. Something is not right here... I have 30 years of audio experience, and it doesn't mean I own the truth, but hearing such strong opinions, like it gave one of the team members wanting to sleep....etc... that is really not anything close to what I hear. The only doubt I had with them as I came from floorstanders, is to know if I would be able to find floorstanders that would provide same accuracy and add the bass that size can only give... So this review is really weird to say the least.

[@jakus514]

Agreed, I wouldn't call them perfect, but the issues they're describing sound way off. I can't believe the girth of the midrange, the bass is great, treble is smooth yet detailed with plenty of air, and soundstage is much wider than the speakers. I vote defective

[@adrianlow2114]

Yes it bothers me also that we had such opposite results

[@johnvalatos4073]

Keep doing these honest reviews, we need this. Stopped watching reviewers where you are left wondering what did I get out of this review in terms of the performance of the product. Darko, Steve, and Jay stopped watching quite a while ago because of this reason.

[@Sonofsun001]

A bricks and mortar store doesn't like the online sales model, you feel watching this that these guys were never going to like these speakers.

[@DSupremeLounge]

Thanks for your honesty. These are hugely popular and loved by many. There must be more than “fan boy” magic dust there. That being said, no one speaker is right for everyone. These guys listen to very high quality speakers daily and perhaps these are simply in a different league. I do believe you’re sincere about your assessment and this isn’t a hit review. Fan Boys will be haters if someone else has a differing opinion.

[@dajikbatarang1]

I'd definitely be interested in Lewis' playlist

[@AudioExcellenceCanada]

"It's coming soon!" - Lewis

[@adrianconti5718]

Like all speakers, they require good product pairing, unless you have amp as the reviewing and a similar listening room, it will sound different, hence try before you buy!

[@edg5367]

The open was F’n great guys

[@AudioExcellenceCanada]

Thanks!

[@oy4791]

S400 mk2 was well-matched with a tube amp (Cayin CS-88A). I was delighted with the performance and enjoyed it. After I trade the Cayin tube amp to McIntosh MA352, I couldn't listen to music. The sound is not like with Cayin CS-88A. From this point, I had to trade S400 for a new speaker SF, which I believe matches the McIntosh amp. I traded S400 not because I did not like it. I traded it for a new speaker to match the McIntosh amp.

[@buckethead84]

I run them with a class A biased solid state integrated and they sound great

[@snomofilms]

What speaker did you end up with? I also have a MA352. Thanks

[@oy4791]

@@snomofilms I am using a loaner speaker, the SF Guarneri Tradition bookshelf. I will get a floor-standing one, the same family as the loaner.

[@ezra8s]

Same thing they describe here happened to me with the Mk1, every one hyping them and I feel like getting mediocre sound at best.

[@brianyearling7810]

Not even mixed reviews:) two products which many have loved, not sure I've seen any dislike, and these guys unanimously think their terrible. They even arrogantly joke around and say things like... say something nice:)... Btw is that a $50000 Wilson audio behind them... that's is cool!

[@ryanschipp8513]

I respect the honesty. Just FYI...you spelled Buchardt wrong..

[@adrianlow2114]

Yes apologies

[@ryanschipp8513]

@@adrianlow2114 no problem :) it was very refreshing to see the candid responses

[@razisn]

Confused. Are they talking about the Mark 1 or Mark 2? The specs provided seem to be the ones for the Mark 2 but I am not so sure what they tested. Their comments seem to be more appropriate for the Mark 1 than the Mark 2. I have no experience with either, I’m just going from what I’ve read about them.

[@sunshine242-l4y]

I think they mentioned they bought mark 2

[@woody168]

it’s only mentioned in the title of this video

[@papapiopiopl5098]

Exactly ! This is what mk1 sound like !

[@sunshine242-l4y]

@@woody168 let me clarify. I think they implied that they reviewed the mark 2. See 3:18. Either way, they have it in the title now which I don't think was the case initially.

[@deansven]

I have the mark 1, and they sound awesome!!!

[@billwillard9410]

I will agree with Adrian on the lack of depth - listening to “Mining For Gold” I hear none of the depth or presence that he had described in other videos. I wonder if the Lumina III is a better speaker overall. It’s nearly impossible to hear a Dynaudio in my location.

[@cmessi]

Did you buy a set?

[@edmundgil6008]

Wow… really interesting. I never thought this would be a speaker for me… even from positive opinions. Your descriptions make it a more solid “no”. Thanks guys!

[@gg0297]

Maybe you should actually try listening to it. Your room, your hearing, your electronics and then you can have a solid "yes" or "no".

[@AM-vo3sy]

You are making a mistake using this review to help make your decision. Just like people who use the positive reviews only, as their influence on their decision. As mentioned below, listen in your room, with your electronics, with your music to make a real informed decision.

[@papapiopiopl5098]

Are you sure that is mark 2 ???

[@vilipmak3973]

Yes

[@Ivy13276]

This shows how Buchardt is hurting these guys at that price range

[@brianyearling7810]

And Denafrips

[@Ivy13276]

@@brianyearling7810 and Gustard

[@mitchy5994]

Meaning they made negative reviews because they don't make money off of them?

[@TombstoneTube]

Please do more reviews like this one. Refreshing.

[@anthonyjrcan]

I agree!

[@Larstig81]

What I always miss in reviews about this speaker is nobody says it is musical or they are really enjoying the music they are listen too.

[@TombstoneTube]

Wow - Ryan Adams' Desire - great taste :)

[@adrianlow2114]

Yes he makes great music

[@TombstoneTube]

@@adrianlow2114 yes, I’ve been following his career since Heartbreaker, great musician

[@JamesWilliams-gf8gm]

This happened to me with the Klipsch Cornwall. All the KZbin reviewers loved it. I went and listened to it and it sucks. It lacks dynamics in the bass. Lacks definition in the bass. The soundstage changes with frequency and after a 1 hour demo I needed a day off because my ears were tired. Not a terrible speaker but very average….

[@dannyfannyfoodle]

This is an example of where listening at a dealer can be hit or miss. I can’t imagine a well setup pair of Cornwalls sounding bad and certainly not lacking in dynamics. Everyone’s tastes differ, no question. It’ll be interesting to hear what they have to say about the Denafrips Ares. Of all the hyped products of the last two years, the Denafrips reigns supreme.

[@JamesWilliams-gf8gm]

@@dannyfannyfoodle went to two dealers more than once each, moved them around the room of both. Played them back to back with other speakers (paradigm/B&W at one, same room same electronics) and Revel at the other. All other brands smoked the Klipsch, no contest. They sound like they look, A big unrefined box. Really caught me off guard as I wanted to like them. No Klipsch hate from me as an owner of the brand (RP8000f which is ok for the $1000 I paid) but the cornwalls are just not near as good as the reviewers say. I also own Revel, B&W, Thiel, paradigm speakers right now (I have a number of systems).

[@dannyfannyfoodle]

@@JamesWilliams-gf8gm Very interesting. I’ve had Thiel, Paradigm, Magnepan, Hales, Acoustat, NHT, Mirage, Platinum Audio, AAD, Soliloquy, Silverline, and so many more. Never had B&W because I’ve never cared for the house sound. Also interesting is that the only Klipsch I really like are Heritage models. I’ve had Klipschorns, Belles, LaScalas, Chorus, Fortes, and Cornwall 1&2. Only one I never had was the Heresy. All of that to say that I currently own the Cornwall IV and love them. They’re not perfect, but they do things other speakers simply cannot. The only other speaker I considered is completely different but also does things that other speakers cannot and that was the Magnepan 3.7i. I could be really happy with either one, but at the end of the day, for my listening habits and taste, I opted for the Cornwall. On a side note, I still have my Ohm Walsh 2s and my father’s old Thiel 3.5s that I have since passed to my son who is enjoying them and on the path to audiophilia.

[@JamesWilliams-gf8gm]

@@dannyfannyfoodle nice list of gear for sure and always Interesting how our interests and tastes change over time and comments like yours keep me somewhat interested in the Klipsch. Maybe I am just not into horns? My main speakers are Revel 228be with subs crossed over at 60hz. I want some horns just try. Still considering the JBL 4367 but kind of pricy as a “second” speaker. Maybe the cornwalls were just over hyped, Not sure. The Revels are even handed and since owning them oddities in speakers seem to stand out more to me.

[@dannyfannyfoodle]

@@JamesWilliams-gf8gm Harman has a very neutral house sound and I’d say the most exemplary line to exhibit that sound is Revel. I’ve never heard their newer models, but had the opportunity to hear the Salons a couple of times and they were mighty impressive. I am very interested to hear John Darko’s take on the the new JBL, I think it’s the 4359? It’s got me intrigued for sure. Maybe your observations of the Cornwall are extremely similar to what’s happened here with Audio Excellence and the Buchardt because long after the Cornwall hype has subsided, TwitteringMachines just released a review of the Cornwall IV and, spoiler alert, he loved them too! There’s no way all these guys who love the Cornwall or the Buchardt or the Denafrips or the LRS, etc, etc are on the take or otherwise embellishing. Steve Guttenberg STILL has the CWIV as his reference. We just all have different tastes. I guess I’ve been around long enough and heard enough systems to know that nothing sounds “real” or uncolored. So now I’m in a place where I want my non-neutral, colored sound to be exciting and dynamic and to sound great at very low as well as fairly high volumes. And I want something that works well with lower powered tubes, cuz that’s another “color” that I really enjoy. Lol. Thanks for a fun conversation. All the best to you!

[@jazzlouise]

Interesting that three reviewers have the same opinion. Even subsequent reviewers have praised them. Are we sure they weren't defective? Just curious.

[@jakus514]

Unless I missed it, did you guys give them enough time to break in? Mine were literally scary bad until about 40-50 hours, and after 100+they are incredible. And of course I respect everyone's opinion, but there may be a chance you recieved a defective pair. Could you all have such a different view than so many other reviewers?

[@vilipmak3973]

The key phrase is "other reviewers" - and I don't know why they heard it so differently.

[@jakus514]

@@vilipmak3973 Are you open to the idea that they were defective or do you have your minds made up? Also broken in? Apparently this is especially important with this brand

[@vilipmak3973]

@@jakus514 Are you open to the idea that they aren't defective and that they do sound the way they do and that for the most part I'm not impressed by them and that many other non-reviewers, ie. purchasers, are of the same opinion as I and the rest of the AE cohort?

[@jakus514]

@@vilipmak3973 Yes absolutely I am, I honestly respect everyone's opinion as they're entitled to it. That being said, I'm certainly in the camp who are hearing exactly what other professional reviewers have described to a tee, including its shortcomings. Though the 5 of you, all listening to the same pair of trade-ins, are hearing traits that practically no professional reviewer has described, many being in direct opposition to their statements, i.e. narrow soundstage, no midrange, no air etc. I have seen plenty of comments agreeing with you guys on some statements, though many say "I had it 2 days or two weeks and gave up", hence my question on break in as mine truly came into their own over time, after wanting to return them fresh out of the box.

[@vilipmak3973]

@@jakus514 Actually it seems most of them are using the speakers they purchased for at least the 45 day return period.

[@geraldgreene5563]

Guys.. your going to have suggest some alternatives that you think are worthy for viewers, if you sell them who cares.. as long as there getting a good speaker

[@vilipmak3973]

Well obviously - Sonus faber Sonetto - either the I or the II. Lots of good $2K to $3K speakers out there. None of them will really replace a $5K to $6K speaker. I really like and endorse the Apertura Swing.

[@geraldgreene5563]

@@vilipmak3973 what would you recommend in a 5000-6000 speaker, I have monitor gold 100 G5 here now

[@vilipmak3973]

@@geraldgreene5563 Of what we sell - Sonetto III or V. But of course there are lots of speaker brands we haven't heard yet or lately. And generally, if you desire something better, you need to jump up a level or two. Don't move sideways.

[@geraldgreene5563]

@@vilipmak3973 yes.. I agree .. the gold are 3200 now , not sure if the sonetto or V would be a step up in the case.. the monitor audio are well reviewed though but not so well reviewed as the buchart.. lol opps

[@Nick-sk1qp]

Could the problem be Audio Excellence Canada are so accustom to the sonus faber sound signature that Buchardt flavour just dosen’t resonate with the group? As you mention during the video a lot of reputable KZbin Reviewers have given this speaker high marks for it’s price point and above it. I recommend Villip contact some of his contacts to dig deeper into their evaluation, something just dose not add up here.

[@woody168]

Buchardt had reached out in the comments. Let’s see what happens. But i think it is unfair for us viewers to ask them to dig deeper for issues, as they are an audio dealer. They do have their day job to be attending to, as they are not KZbin reviewers, and strictly reviewers.

[@patrickvdven172]

These guys sell audio equipment, as is retail. That's their business model. Buchardt is a direct (!) seller...

[@michalryszawy]

This speaker have the cheapest SB Acoustic Drivers. Thats why they sound just Ok...nothing fancy

[@buckethead84]

Fancy drivers don't mean you'll get a nice sound

[@michalryszawy]

@@buckethead84 tell it words to the best speakers in the world :). "Fancy" speakers have better dynamic, timbre, soundstage, transjents response, 3d imaging, etc. Tell me why Scan Speak, Sb Acoustics, Seas have diffrent line up in speakers from very cheap (20 euro)..like this in s400, to expensive (500 euro) per unite. They dont know what they sell, or You dont understand ? Of course You can make very good speakers from cheap components but if you want the best then need to buy top of the line of SBA, SS, Seas. That is hard truth

[@Stastylen]

I have had the Buchardt S400 MKII's for a little over a month, when I first fired them up they sounded a bit flat, but the more they broke in the dimension came in! One thing I want to mention is room synergy and listening style. They work great in my room, but my room is fairly bright. The one thing I was most impressed with the Buchartds the most is that they sound very even all over my room. Some of my past speakers definitely had more audiophile fireworks and hype but the synergy I found with my room, electronics is very musical and not fatiguing. I also found them to work well with all types of music and do very well with poorer sounding recordings! So for me the and my listening preferences they are bring a ton of musical satisfaction!

[@henriksrensen3220]

The audiu Exellence Canada review was flawed. They didn't even bother to place the speakers in a proper listening room. Anyway that's what Sean from zero fidelity said yesterday in a live stream.

[@doifeellucky]

Apparently in what is effectively a glass box.

[@henriksrensen3220]

@@doifeellucky yes exactly

[@pswitzeny]

@@doifeellucky I've actually been in the room, and yes, it has windows, but it isn't any worse than your average condo living room. It's smallish room, but these are small bookshelf speakers. The room, in my opinion, having stood in it, is totally appropriate for the speakers and the AE guys have heard a whole pile of speakers in that room, that they like (like the small Maggies, for example). They very well know what the limitations and problems are with the room as well as the impact the room has on speakers.

[@vilipmak3973]

@@pswitzeny Thank You! That was very well articulated and we couldn't have stated it better.

[@jorgebacani1901]

these guys might be butt hurt because buchardt actually sold a lot of their speakers direct. a great way to reduce price without the middleman. 😅

[@louisperlman8030]

There seem to be a couple of factors at work here. With affordable equipment, we are generally happy if it does a few things well. Sometimes, the things it does less well gets forgotten. Next the internet loves Giant Killers. The problem is that the people who use the term most have rarely actually heard the giants that are killed. It's just so much easier to say the a certain component is better than something 2x, 5x or 10x as expensive. And finally, many audiophiles just make purchases based on KZbin reviews, and have no idea what a system is supposed to sound like, or what unamplified instruments sound like, for that matter. I would believe the Audio Excellence ears over KZbin reviewers. If the purpose was to sell the trade-ins a glorious review would be the easiest thing to do. Too often, it's not clear that the KZbin reviews aren't just cheerleading, as long as the component has some redeeming virtue, or can be made to sound half decent in some system. Then the review gets cloaked with terms like 'system matching is essential' or 'synergy is always important'. I'm looking forward to the Ares review as it's supposed to be a good choice for someone not wanting to spend a fortune going down the digital rabbit hole.

[@geraldgreene5563]

That really makes sense.. these guys are not doing this with any bad intentions, they are hearing some of the best gear out there at every level

[@jeffkalina7727]

Loved the honesty. But really painful to watch

[@adrianlow2114]

Hi Jeff. Why?

[@jeffkalina7727]

@@adrianlow2114 Have you rewatched it?

[@pswitzeny]

Forget unboxings, THESE are your best videos. :)

[@adrianlow2114]

WHAT! You don't LOVE our unboxing videos??? lol

[@mikecristofaro9928]

I second all of your opinion’s, i had them for 2 weeks , wasn’t impressed , no need to get in the specifics/ technicality of it , your evaluation reflects most of my thought’s , basically great branding, great hype , great story , great reviews, speaker of the year ,3000$ can , it’s a no go for me

[@GT-Diaries]

The intro is hilarious

[@AudioExcellenceCanada]

Thank you!

[@wokthetalk3079]

Never apologize for your honesty AE! I believe that the S400 is overpriced. The speakers are assembled in Indonesia using off the shelf SB Acoustics Drivers. Even if one take in to account the free shipping out of Denmark, excellent parts used in the crossover engineering and proprietary waveguide with no dealer network to support, it is mb armed up too high. Now that you are reviewing gear that is carried by AE, can I ask you to do a review of Om Speakers or the Linkwitz Labs LX521.4 or the LX Studio open baffle speaker. I have never seen a review of either of these speaker from an established audio reviewer. These speaker can be bought in kits form or fully built.

[@buttonman1831]

I just tried KLH model 5 which are another speaker reviewers raveed about and I'm not impressed. They are 3600 cdn and I prefer 899 dollar ls50s. The are ok, but they lack dynamics amd resolution. Not the giant killers reviewers claimed. This isn't the first speaker online reviewers raved about that I had this experience with. There are many much better speakers out there for the same money or less.

[@StefanUrkel]

What concerns me, or I find odd, is the wave of reviews that comes in from the usual suspects, raving about the flavor of the month, but none of them actually do sound demos, and there are very few independent owner demos to be found online.

[@TheBuap]

no midrange??!!, room effect??, you guys must atleast review in proper room set up, never heard such thing as speaker with no midrange..only produce bass and high frecuency??, you guys must be kidding to put out review like that.

[@donnowak4304]

Stereo sales men never lie. lol

[@willisg8411]

The pair they auditioned could possibly be a lemon/defects. That could be the reason the original owner traded it in.

[@vilipmak3973]

Or simply just not that good. Have you heard them?

[@willisg8411]

@@vilipmak3973 I happened to own a brand new pair of S400 MK II, Even though it is not fully broken in yet, it already sounded good. I certainly didn’t fall asleep.

[@vilipmak3973]

@@willisg8411 Good for you. Choosing audio gear is always personal. So, if you like them, you like them.

[@genkifd]

wow - this must be one and only negative review on this speaker. well done

[@AbsoluteFidelity]

Keep reading, many owners dont like it. I didnt like it when I heard them.

[@JG-gg9wk]

That was interesting. Fan boys will be coming out for you. That's what happens when you buy blindly on line. If your willing to pay 2k+USD you need to compare it with other speakers in that range.

[@thebestoffools]

This speaker's an argument for brick and mortar store. Enough said.

[@bbfrid88]

Maybe that's why the guy traded them in. Perhaps this was a lemon and not typical of that model.

[@markhusbands6132]

Correct they now have a responsibility to us to purchase a new pair and properly review those!!

[@oy4791]

S400 was very good for my ear. It was well matched with a tube amp but not with a McIntosh Hybrid amp. That was a reason to trade it.

[@vfwhitehead]

Interesting that you can't even bother to check the spelling of the company name.

[@adrianlow2114]

Corrected

[@billfife6569]

Interesting. Something told me these speakers had a little to much fanfare . I am not questioning peoples judgement. I got the impression that these speakers were warm. I guess some people like that. Appreciate your hounest opinion. It helps keep reviews in perspective. I tend to think that your thoughts are accurate.

[@royhumphrey49]

Sorry, but you guys don't sound neutral and independent. Please affirm that you do not sell hi-fi products. Many KZbin videos are giving these speakers rave reviews! Surely the real acid test is a symphony orchestra playing a Mahler symphony with choir and soloists, whilst sitting in the best stalls in the concert hall. Am I right or am I right? Capitalism is NOT part of music!

[@alfonzooliviera1121]

Well done intro!!!

[@AudioExcellenceCanada]

Thanks!!

[@xtcund]

Hi, first let me say that I understand and respect this review, however, I really think these speakers should get a second chance with you guys and I’ll tell you why: I have a paid ok mk1. When I bought them, I Was hearing them with an old tagmclaren 60p. They sounded nice, but nothing like the “hype” I was seeing on the web. By that time, I had a pair of canton vento 809dc in my living room (49sqm). Anyway, I was happy but didn’t find them worth the 2000€ I paid. After some months I changed my canton 809dc for a paid of BW802N and paired them with two NAD s200. When I was testing the bw, I insanely took the s400 to the living room to Test. When I mounted the s400, with the NAD bridged (around 700wpc) my jaw just dropped. The sound of the buchardt in my living room just changed completely, huge sound stage, dynamics, air… not only they sound huge, as they sounded more natural than the bw’s. Then, a friend brought a primaluna prologue four and I paired it with my Mcintosh mc2200 pre, and let me Tell you, not only goose bumps as I also got Tears in My eyes listening to music. Long story short, I sold my bw802 because I just had them always off because I wanted to Hear the s400 all night. They have something that is so Natural that I can’t explain: its like hearing analog vs digital. My suggestion is: give them a second change but give them a bigger room in termos of widh and depth, and also connect them to a Mcintosh or something more intimate like a sudgen. They do not work as nearfield speaker and if I listen to Them that close, I really feel the same way you did. I have many friend that already bought the s400 after hearing them in my house, some were unhappy but all fixed the issues after some advise. Guys, treat them as a big speaker. Give them space and power, and them say your thoughts. Keep up the good work.