Best Speaker Under $200 part 2 - Jamo S803 vs Sony SSCS5 vs Klipsch R-51M vs Fluance Reference

[@StewartMarkley]

Dude, you just keep getting better and better at this. You are doing the most for most people that like or love music than anyone by comparing components of approximately equal value and priced within the realm of most people's budgets. Keep it up 🙂

[@cheapaudioman]

SS Markley much appreciated

[@randyfrazier5725]

I just ordered a pair of Sony SSCS5"s and a Aiyima A07 TPA3255. Thank you for helping me decide what to go with!

[@CraigFels]

I bought the Jamo S 803 and connected it to a JVC receiver that I bought in 1992. It sounds great for vinyl and streaming with an Airport Express (2nd gen) for Airplay 2. I actually bought the 803 HCS Surround package for $229, so I added Jamo S 807 to the 81CEN and 801 (and an old Energy sub) in my basement. Overall, I’m very happy with the 2.0 set up and the surround set up. The white finish looks great, too.

[@MichaelEKaz]

Fun comparison, I think these comparisons are a great way to better understand how these speakers sound. Being able to say "compared to x" adds context to something that is hard to describe to all of us who aren't easily able to listen to these. Also, however it sounds, that Jamo is a looker.

[@harisrizvanbegovic2728]

I'm looking forward for Sony to finally come in my small, little country called Bosnia. I preordered them, a little bit on the expensive side, but I'm totally fine with it. I can't wait enough to buy them and hear them. So, thank you Randall for this video. It's helped me in some way to confirm my choice. Hope it will work with older Sony amps (old ES series).

[@LuisRendonAudio]

Si te funcionan sin dudarlo amigo saludos

[@petethegreekre]

Cheapaudioman, I must say! The D-roll of the Klipsch made me want one. I mean, that copper cone is gorgeous brother.

[@stevesteve8264]

Does that model have the copper? Thought he spoke about the smaller ones without. Might be wrong. I could have avoided typing all this and looked for myself lol

[@heres_the_sauce]

Watching this video with audio going through my new jamo s803s. Got them for $140 on sale and they're my first "nice" speakers and I love them so far :)

[@kendoglarson5419]

That's funny.....my Klipsch R-51m's sound absolutely amazing on my 90's Yamaha 2 channel receiver even under powered at 80 wpc. Completely balanced and a crazy amount of bass for such small speakers. The tweeter horn is rediculously good. I also own Klipsch loudspeakers KG4.2's and those are 30 years old and these little gems pair seamlessly with them. In fact in nearfield listening it's hard to tell the two apart.

[@fordssuck]

I dunno why he dumps on the klipsch. They are far superior to others on that table

[@jonathanr2830]

You have high credibility, because you have just nailed the Sony and Klipsch speakers in this shootout, and are consistently detailed as to pros and cons in your other reviews. I have had several pairs of Sony SSCS-5 speakers for several years in different setups for home theater and long listening sessions. Best audio purchases I ever made in the bang-for-the-buck category ($73 per pair on sale), but it is their sound quality that always has me wanting to keep listening for hours on end. It is so full, clear, and smooth and never mediocre to my ear. You are right about getting the best sound by tweaking wall placement. Even slight tweaks with careful listening can make a difference and are worth the time and effort. I also found that separating them far enough apart (i.e. not flanking a small computer monitor on a desk) and getting the tweeters right at ear level makes a very positive impact on letting these speakers do their thing and sound their best. Thanks, again.

[@DougMcDave]

I'm getting back into vinyl LPs. My starter receiver will be the Sony STR DH190, so I'll get their ss cs5 speakers. They are getting good reviews, and I'm confident they made those speakers with that receiver in mind. Thanks!

[@RobertSpiller]

Question...do you feel the Sony's need a subwoofer?

[@jonathanr2830]

@@RobertSpiller For home theater sub bass, a sub will get that extra slam you will want with movies, etc. With stereo listening, a sub will add some depth and presence. However, I disagree with many who summarily conclude that a sub "is needed" with the SSCS5 speakers. If they match up with your room and amp, are positioned reasonably well, etc., you may find as I did, that they still sound better than "good enough" for music listening of most genres. The one genre exception, which I do not care for anyway, would be "severe basshead" music (my personal term). For that kind of music, you would "need" a sub with these SSCS5 speakers. All others: Classic rock, acoustic, classical, piano, jazz, easy listening, opera, country western, easy listening, much of pop, etc., you probably will not miss not having a sub, at all. I listen to a lot of rock: Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Jethro Tull, and a lot of classical and jazz. I often turn my Sony SACS9 off to listen (soft or cranked up. You might feel that you "need" a sub, but I doubt it. I could be wrong. Could be right. Only you will know for sure. All the best.

[@okpalaathanesius8939]

​@@jonathanr2830Hello bro, just came across this channel & your comment, i love Edm, rap hip hop & many genres of music, i love warm sound signature, i'll like to set up my first good budget 5.1.2 or 5.2.2 setup My considerations are two pairs of Sony sscs5, for both front & surround, which centre, sub(s) & receiver would you recommend?

[@jonathanr2830]

@@okpalaathanesius8939 I definitely recommend the SSCS5 for front and rear. They are not characteristically warm, but not particularly shrill or analytical, either. Speaker position, room characteristices, signal source, a variety of possible receiver-based sound tweaks will let you customize sound significantly. Your unique ears will always be the best judge of what you like best. I have had an all-Sony Core Series setup, including center and subs, and using as my receiver the 2015 vintage STRZ 3000 ES. That setup still blows me away in everyday use, whatever I am listening to or watching. I have no auditioning experience to verify, but suspect that the new STR-AZ3000 ES may have somewhat improved and updated features and some serious sound capability. Before choosing, if possible, I recommend that you have a good critical listening session to decide which speakers and receiver are most pleasing to your tastes. Sorry that I cannot speak to other speakers and receivers, but the fantastic news is that there are so many good and competitive options for you these days. Bottom line is do not sweat it, do good homework and planning, and remember that truly awesome sound entertainment is possible on a budget. You do not need to spend a fortune. I personally found that to be true for me with my "old" Sony Core Series and ES receiver setup. Still makes me smile when I have it showing off its stuff and proving itself as one of my best "bang-for-the-buck" purchases ever.

[@knappymer]

Hey Randy. Just found your channel and I'm getting around to catching up on your videos. So far, so affordably wonderful! The t-shirt in this video tells me I'm in the right place. Keep rocking dude!

[@foodog777]

I’m new to your channel. I enjoy your reviews of less expensive products. I bought the Jamo HCS set for $229 and a set of Klipsch R-620Fs on sale for $199 each 2 years ago. I have a 5.0 setup with Jamo 803s as wall mounted sides and 801s as computer monitors. I couldn’t be happier. You have great musical taste. Keep up the great work! I’ll be watching your channel more than Recovering Audiophile now because he never reviews anything I can afford.

[@RobertSpiller]

So hey fooddog5160, do you feel the Jamo don't need a sub?

[@Newrecordday2013]

This was your best Saturday Shootout so far, Randall the Chief Audio Supervisor.

[@cheapaudioman]

Thanks, Obi Ron

[@Angel-or3mn]

Just purchased the Jamo's set of 5 speakers, I honestly wanted the Sony cs5, but that white sweet color + the great audio and review I saw from you, just a game changer.

[@Angel-or3mn]

@cloud chaser to be honest I'm still looking for a good one, I'm using a pioneer that just let use 2 channels, so yeah bro, sorry.

[@RobertSpiller]

Do you have a need for a subwoofer, or is the bass good enough on the Jamos

[@Angel-or3mn]

@@RobertSpiller i like it but is not that much thb, just enough for me

[@brochg]

Fantastic review! Thank you, Randy! You are killing it!!

[@drewjackson3858]

Yay. I got the those Jamo 803 and I'm still waiting for my Pyle reciever (what a terrible name). Not even installed yet. I got black and brown which I like much better than the white. I'm also getting the center speaker which is beautiful. But I was worried about the sound because they're so cheap. I was sketchy about getting three speakers for less than 230 bucks total. I'm glad I don't need to get a sub. The center speaker should make up for the clairty issues you mentioned. But it goes to show, trust Amazon customer ratings. Don't know crap and I still got the Darth Vader Buddha.

[@victormuriel1423]

Alway an great video, nice comparison... did I hear auto-tune 7:25 ?

[@marcsullivan7987]

Hey Randy I’ll take that poster off your hands and put it in my Jam room, if you want. My vision is shot, so pixelated doesn’t matter! Jk I’ve got a Soundbase coming; I’m gonna A/B and try it out. My daughter took my phone last night, hijacked my listening session , and put Billie Eilish on. Not really my thing, but I was pretty impressed by the sonic experience. I would def put that album on to show certain people how good music can sound. My 11 year old daughter and I sat and binge listened to music. Joy.

[@marcsullivan7987]

(I feel compelled to add: the Eilish album is NOT what I would call and audiophile album, by any measure, for a bunch of reasons. But it sounds “good” on a good system, in that I don’t think it would sound good at all if it wasn’t on a good system.

[@rogerloos420]

Thank you for your review. I was going to get the sony's, but they are now $198.00 on Amazon. And I found a jamo for $120.00 I feel it's a steal at that price.

[@Boognishinside]

I recently bought the Klipsch R-51M's and use them with my turntable setup. The Bellari Sonic Exciter really helps dialing in a great sound quality and I'm going to add a powered Sub with the speaker wire line ins. My listening room is pretty small and this setup works nice. I cross the streams with the toe in and that seems to be the best for my room.

[@aworminmybook8234]

i'd love for randy to review some bellari stuff

[@petersimo8671]

I got the Jamo S803 from Adorama $126 . I like the speaker. Good V curve for my old ears. Powering with Emotiva preamp and amp.

[@ufarkingicehole]

Jamo is a very underrepresented brand. The concert series towers are alot better than the s series. Both good but they do not do well with class D.

[@petersimo8671]

@@ufarkingicehole I have heard alot of people say that about class D . So I put aside my QSC and my Crest class d's and got an Emotiva bass x a300. I like it.

[@TonicofSonic]

You can get the jamos803 5 speaker surrpund setup for 229 on Amazon. Thats basically giving them away.

[@ufarkingicehole]

@@petersimo8671 I think I have figured this out. Lol. Some speakers sound perfectly fine with class d (elacs). Some speakers put an emphasis on the stereotypical class d sound. I am limited with my class D though. I have a crown xls, smsl 300 (sounds better than the crown but limited power), and I have heard a good many. The smsl was actually surprisingly good. I am probably going to try the SVS based on Randy's review.

[@ufarkingicehole]

@@TonicofSonic they are actually pretty legit and yes its crazy cheap.

[@brianaugustine2299]

Would love to see a Part 3 version comparing the Yamaha NS-6490, Sony SSCS5, and the Polk Monitor 40 Series II. I've been looking hard at the Yamahas for a garage stereo paired with a Yamaha R-S202 receiver. Looking for some speakers that will pump out a big party sound. Love these reviews, don't ever change.

[@collinwood60]

Randy, I thought you were going to pass out when listing all the speakers. Pace yourself man! I said the heck with it. For my 3rd home system I decided to buy the Sony SSCS5’s. Between your and many other reviews you can’t go wrong at $150. Would I buy these for my main surround/home theater systems, nope. But for a 2 channel system for audio only these should do. I’ll of course be adding a subwoofer.

[@cheapaudioman]

they'll come back down to $120 and even $75. no brainer at those prices.

[@odwatchguy]

Alright back to the Saturday Speaker shootouts, you need more speakers to keep these going. I just bought the Jamo 803's through the warehouse, now even more excited to get them.

[@justins.1283]

I got the Jamo S803 on Amazon for $149 and I love them with a subwoofer crossed over at about 85hz

[@Chris-fp9rj]

Because of this video, it helped me choose a budget friendly setup for the garage. The Sony SSCS5 speakers sounds amazing, more then enough. Thanks! Keep up the great work!

[@theyojo1656]

what receiver do you use?

[@Chris-fp9rj]

@@theyojo1656 S.M.S.L SA300 HiFi Digital Amplifier, plenty powerful enough for those speakers too.

[@theyojo1656]

@@Chris-fp9rj i’m brand new to audio, so i don’t know much, but can that amplifier take a subwoofer too?

[@Chris-fp9rj]

@@theyojo1656 Yes, is has a RCA output for a powered subwoofer.

[@RobertSpiller]

Are you using a sub?

[@34griter]

Mr Dandy Randy, you're a funny guy. I came to you looking for advice on cheap audio speakers to pair with a Sony (clear throat, sip coffee, look at the back) strdh190 (or whatever) receiver. I have to say, I really appreciate your in depth exploration of the speakers. I enjoy your dedication to the art, even if you spend a lot of time in the weeds. Because of your videos, I first purchased the Sonys, but redacted my decision the next morning (this morning) and chose to pull the trigger on the Yamos. They will fit the (wife's) space better. Thanks again, you got me as a subscriber!

[@studiomg3212]

Just the video I was looking for! Thank you!

[@MatthewRutledgeTaylor]

Great stuff. I love your videos. Question: Would you consider ranking all the speakers you've reviewed, best to worst, regardless of price? The price bracketing doesn't work as well for a lot of people outside the USA as prices can be all over the place in other regions.

[@WondrousMindTrick]

Yeah the Sony is 200 USD where I live.

[@blasterman789]

Need to have your daughter do a guest segment on her favorite breakfast cereal. Fruity pebbles vs lucky charms. I honestly need an expert opinion.

[@cheapaudioman]

well she came in 3x during the video I did today.

[@robertbrown1876]

I absolutely love to watch your videos and I learn a lot through watching you so thank you for doing this my friend. Are you at all familiar with the JAMO e800s I found a set mint for 65 dollars but I can't hear them before I buy them so do you have any opinion on them? Thank you bro keep them coming

[@b.a.2335]

I think it's important to note the type and size subwoofer to match with these bookies. Dual 8-10" sealed subs would be my recommendation.

[@rondavidson7275]

I've got a single 12 inch 150 watt sustained 400 watt peak sub and it pairs very well at higher volumes if it does lack the power to move the driver enough at lower volumes

[@joshuasterling2144]

I like to get smaller subs for smaller systems too, matching the speed of smaller drivers is very nice. To me 6-8 inch subs are more than enough for this..

[@normanham6142]

Dual 8” ported

[@JuanGarcia-kv7yv]

The Jamo’s are great little speakers that look cool to with or without the speaker covers.. Bought one set a year ago in white and just bought a second set also on sale but in walnut.. They sound much larger than they are, have a freaking great sound stage and can play almost anything well.. and they look good while playing too.. if you can get them on sale you will not be disappointed at all.. Great for an office, den, kitchen or other small to medium sized room. You can drive them very well with a Sprout (30watts per channel) . More clean power should drive them very well too. Also have the Fluence and they too sound really good just not as lively. IMO best for jazz or vocal.. but they can handle power. Have these hocked up to a Nakamichi TA-4 or powered by an Onkyo 504.. so it can also play relatively load and can handle higher powered amps. Believe the higher power makes the speaker sound a bit tighter. Both are great buys.. Oh and Fluance has great service. My first pair arrived defective. They replaced immediately. Good luck

[@tw9121]

I agree, they are fantastic speakers. My first song on them was Babylon Sisters by Steely Dan....you should have seen the smile on my face!

[@RobertSpiller]

Hey got this question...do you feel a need for a sub for your set?

[@jorsh1908]

Love your channel! I would absolutely love if you would do a comparison between the Jamo s809 and Fluance reference towers. I have an older JBL HLS 5.1 system (620 towers for L/R) my dad handed down to me when my mom finally got sick of dusting them and I like them, but I don't love them. I am wanting to upgrade to either the Jamos or the Fluances.

[@adamtadlock3335]

Cheapaudioman I would love to see as I believe many others would love to see some affordable Towers. I know as your channel grows you will be able to afford to do bigger and better comparisons and reviews. I love the content and the corky humour keep it up man and I keep watching🤘

[@TonicofSonic]

Buy a used (or new if you fibd them) pioneer andrew Jones towers. You cannot do better for unless you spend 3x the price or more. Just eq the 4k, 6k, and 8k up a bit, but don't eq up the lower or higher frequencies on those.

[@jetfansuperd]

I think The Audiophiliac reviewed some extremely reasonable towers from Dayton

[@AmericanConstellation]

Got those Sony's because I had to at 73 bucks. I don't regret having them in my speaker collection. They sound pretty darn good.

[@hiramabiff885]

Thanks so much for your reviews. We ordered the Klipsch Synergy Black Label B-200 so we could give our son my 35 year-old KLH studio monitors and within 15 minutes we found the Klipsch revolting. They were literally painful to listen to. Back to Amazon thank you. I ordered the Yamo S803's before seeing your review and when you described their staging I was so happy I almost jumped out of my pants and spanked myself. I will run them through a very good Chinese tube amp and I suspect they will be stellar. Frankly I cannot believe what POS the Klipsch were in ALL respects.

[@PeterSz73]

Follow up! How do you like the Jamos?

[@christopherp.9616]

2 pairs of Klipsch Synergy B3's, a Velodyne 10" front loaded sub and a Denton 2.1 receiver. I think I have $475 invested in all of it, and I'm very happy with the setup. Love the Denon! The Velodyne is very "musical", and I'm able to keep it at bay (subtle) so as to not be obnoxious. Seeing this makes me want to try the Sony's and/or the Jamo's. I'm thinking the Sony's... Thanks for the education!

[@mrpink3630]

did you try other brands? ive never been impressed with denon.

[@rjzlwop3153]

So great video great enthusiasm and I love how you pronounce the words, I’m not picking on you I promise! Which one of these would you suggest to use as your rear surround speakers? Have an amazing day awesome awesome awesome

[@cheapaudioman]

for rear surrounds I'd actually point you to the Jamo S801's. they're a great option. The second link in the description is the whole 5 channel jamo set and at $230 is an incredible value

[@DrFlippin]

Totally agree with your assessment of the Pioneer BS22LRs in comparison to the Sonys. Everyone was hyping the Pioneers a few years ago so I bought a pair. Next to my Sonys, they just sounded muddy and 'boring'. I got rid of my Pioneers soon after but started to wonder if I had bought a pair of substandard Pioneers. So its good to hear that I'm not the only only one to find the BS22LRs rolled off in the high freqs. The Sony's are phenomenally good as a bookshelf speaker - even at their full retail price. I've played them against some of my other speakers for friends - blindfolded; and pretty much everyone is surprised to discover its the (inexpensive) Sonys that had impressed them. BTW, I think your award system is great (says so much more than just a numbers scale) and unique amongst a lot of other HIFI equipment reviewers on the 'tube. Keep up the great work!

[@harrybaules]

I had a similar experience with the Neumi BS5's. The low end hurt my ears. Too boomy no matter where I placed them. I returned them right away. Everyone seems to love them so I wonder if mine were defective.

[@RobertSpiller]

How about a sub....do you feel a need for some?

[@johnman334]

I think Klipsch sounds good to people with hearing loss. They need the painful fatiguing highs so they can actually hear something in the treble.

[@TonicofSonic]

As strange as it sounds, where my center sits I require no or front port, scooped out mids(inside a large wooden storage area under the t.v) and a nice and straight audio path. Klipsch r52c is the only klipsch in my system save for the over head atmos which again, I needed a directed sound as my system sits in a corner. I like them alot vs the matching strong mids and rolled off highs I used to have, but then again as a ypung result I used to come home from work with ringing in my ears so bad I couldnt here my tv at all, likely some damage was done as I here a constant 15k or so ringing in my ears, still ripe at 34! 😂

[@georgec1779]

Home theater enthusiasts tend to like them. I think because the dialogue is crisper and clearer.

[@AndreAmeli]

music to test treble, ocean colour scene - hundred mile high city, if your ears dont get tired, good speaker! Great live album whit good bass, eletric guitar and female vocals, Lucinda Willians - Live at Filmore, specially the disc 2

[@coolmacho975]

Hi Randy! Seen a lot of your videos(i´m a subscriber). Like the way you analize and compare products in your videos.Of course is your opinion after testing the stuff. When it comes to sound ......it´s a hard job 🤦‍♀️. But there is a product for every buyer.Sometimes a cheap product can surprise you with a very decent quality while an expensive one might disappoint you. Actually i´m looking to renew my bookshelf speakers(i have a pair of Infinity beta 20 from 2006/7) .I allready renewed the stereo amplifier from a Harman Kardon to a NAD 316 bee V2 . Which one of these speakers would you recommend (i listen to all kind of music from Bach to AC/DC): FOCAL CHORUS 706 JAMO S 803 YAMAHA NS 333 DALI SPEKTOR 2 TANNOY PLATINUM B6 - BV POLK AUDIO S 20 e. I would appreciate your opinion.Thanks. *english is not my mother tongue so sorry if i have some faults.

[@felixlaboy1453]

Hey buddy. I thinking of getting the SVS Amplifier do you have anything els you would recommend at the same price point. Thank you

[@LivinInTheSip]

Any chance you might look into the HSU bookshelf speakers? Very few reviews. I've been considering them and the SVS for a new front sound stage.

[@cheapaudioman]

Will definitely try to get a pair. I've reached out to them a couple of times

[@dperr338]

I bought the Polk Signature S10 for $130 a Klipsch K100sw 10 inch subwoofer and a Sony receiver and it sounds great. Curious what you'd think of this setup. I set the cross over at 80 hz. Sounds good listening to War Pigs to my ears.

[@cheapaudioman]

I bet that does sound good.

[@byrongriffin5644]

cheapaudioman got a question, thinking about sscs5 with sacs9 both $280 right now, are they better than the $300 showdown's you done?

[@Christopher._M]

If I pair the 803 with a sub would you recommend lowering the U/V shape scoop so that mids stand out slightly more and the sub translates smoother? Or would that ruin the sound staging and overall sound of the speaker. I'm not talking a about a huge change just a slight 1-3 decibel change.

[@kingkongz88]

Thanks for another great review. I may have missed it but what are you driving these with for your tests? I see the Amazon reviews are in much agreement with you but I also check out the 1 star reviews (which often tells you there are quality control issues or compatibility issues). Some of the 1 star reviews say the Sony are tinny, sibilant and have no bass. So, I wonder if it's what they are driven with.? Anyone got a constructive opinion?

[@cheapaudioman]

emotiva ta-100 with a300 amp, topping mx3, svs soundbase

[@kingkongz88]

@@cheapaudioman Thank you most kindly.

[@billydroveit]

Would love to see a comparison of the Jamo s803 and Neumi BS5.

[@fraula1]

Don’t you think the DALI Spektor 1 could compete with these ??

[@NeilBlanchard]

Another useful and understandable review - its all about the music, and the overall experience. Any reason that you didn't include the Emotiva?

[@TonicofSonic]

Priced firm at 229 I think.

[@NeilBlanchard]

@@TonicofSonic Okay, that would do it.

[@geezer5236]

Bit disappointed you didn't bring out the Polk TSi100. Iirc you said they would have won if included in the first SS under $200. They are still available.

[@archit28]

I’m contemplating between Jamo s803 and Klipsch Promedia 2.1 for my computer. Which one would you recommend ??

[@martinpixley9180]

How does Fluance Bookshelf from your first version of this compare? I am thinking of pairing them with the AIyima A07.

[@diamond4829]

your super entertaining .. lol ... love watching your stuff for info and a good laugh.

[@jasonfranciosa]

What's your thoughts on the Kilpsch R-41M for $90 at Costco right now?

[@PUSSYMONEYWEED75]

Is that a walans Corp tee..cool

[@MrSlicer2424]

Hi Randy, I have a set of klipsch 400m paired with a jamo subwoofer. I've noticed the listening fatigue you speak of with the klipsch. I'm considering the emotiva b1+ or the Svs prime you raved about. In you opinion are the primes worth the $250 difference .

[@cheapaudioman]

I do but some of the differences are going to be subtle. The B1+ is a very interesting speaker. It has way more detail than the Klipsch but has little to no fatigue. Might be a nice compromise. The emos are also more detailed than the SVS. If you don't need the bigger drivers than the emos are the way to go when they are back in stock

[@ufarkingicehole]

Randy!! You have to try the Jamo c 97ii if you can. I have the c607 and I promise they sound better than the Elac uni 5.2. Just use plenty of class A and class AB power. Not class D on then

[@willees6958]

Cheapaudioman, Ever considered to test the HTD Level 2 or 3 ? The go for 230 and $380. Would like to know what you think of them. They are direct to consumer. Thank you Sir.

[@Gary_M]

+1 for the HTD Level 3. True ribbon tweeter, not AMT.

[@cheapaudioman]

I've reached out to HTD multiple times and even purchased a speaker from them but they never replied. You should ping them over there and see if that helps. They literally operate in the same metro area I live.

[@eeyorebill04]

Another great comparison video! You should review some more sub-$5/600 floorstanding speakers. My situation limits me to floorstanders only

[@cheapaudioman]

I've got a couple. Emo T0's, Fluance Reference, Sony SS series, Jamo S805's

[@revivehificanada]

Love your reviews and the channel. Just a question about the Klipsch r-51M. How long did you run the speaker before making the comments? I have many speakers and was not happy with the R-51m when I first purchased them as they sounded pretty shrill with weak mids and no bass. However, after 4 months and switching my amp to a marantz it really sounds very good with excellent bass (within reason), mids and highs. Very clear sound. It seems to be sensitive to the amp and takes a bit of time to break-in. Also have you reviewed anything from PSB or Paradigm? Also, how do the speakers in this review compare to the JBL Stage speakers, I believe SA-130(?) you reviewed before? Thanks.

[@jlane7731]

Do you think the Jamo 803 would be compatible to say something like a prime bookshelf speaker.,? Because I’m thinking about Jamo 8:03 or the prime bookshelf

[@HawkFest]

Try Cognac with a small teaspoon of powdered sugar in your coffee (also called "Café Royal"). That'd do it

[@damianhaber4890]

Randy, have you ever listened to Infinity SM 65 or 85 monitors? I have both from 1999 and use the 65 as my L & R speakers. I use the 85 with a 1988 Kenwood KM-106 amplifier for the occasional parties.

[@cheapaudioman]

I haven't but I'd love to.

[@guyb7005]

Why aren't you looking at Paradigm speakers -- maybe their haydays are over? Love the channel btw!

[@rafelin6707]

Need your opinion cheapaudioman! Do you think I’m better off getting the Sony’s to upgrade the surrounds on my home theater from a pair of ild infinity p143’s? Or should I go with the polk 15’s to timbre match my front and center?

[@cheapaudioman]

Polks are not clear at all. I’d go with the Sony’s. Timber matching the center to the Fronts is important but not so much with rears

[@rafelin6707]

@@cheapaudioman Thanks for the quick response. Purchased the Polk s20’s per your recommendation and haven’t regretted so iI’ll take your word on the Sony’s 👍🏼

[@rafelin6707]

@@cheapaudioman actually found some Andrew Jones Pioneer bookshelves on woot.com for $80, you think those would be better over the Sony’s?

[@ziggy8757]

would you say that the emotivas b1+ is a much better buy than any of these speakers? what are your thoughts, im surprised you didnt include the emotivas

[@cheapaudioman]

Emos are a bit above at $230. I think that it's better if you like extreme clarity. I really like the B1's and I think it's one of the best values in speakers

[@frankdegan8972]

I have my coffee. I’m ready!!!

[@PHOBIAx57x]

Seriously leaning towards grabbing the Jamos just for the looks. Am I wrong in that?

[@cheapaudioman]

No. they sound great and will be a great speaker for most people

[@fascinatedbyeverything]

How does the Fluance Signature series fit into this? It’s only $20 more than the Reference, and I know you’ve heard it.

[@SamuraiGuy]

which is the best for desk aka against the wall usage?

[@bigdallyc]

@cheapaudioman Would it be fair to say that you enjoy bright sounding speakers? Or at the very least, you don't mind them?

[@cheapaudioman]

my favorite speakers are neutral with great clarity. Clarity often comes with fatigue and is hard to do and the driver selection needs to be on point. elac debut reference is one of my favorite speakers and it's not "bright" at all. I guess the best way to describe my preference is that I love speakers with great "clarity". bumps in the highs often give the illusion of clarity but that's often just trickery and dropping the mids right before you high the highs with crossover design.

[@bigdallyc]

@@cheapaudioman Thanks for clarifying. I'm still trying to get a handle on all the terms. I really want to try the Debit References.

[@jabuki2]

$119 Jamo S803 from adorama. Just ordered a pair.

[@acroberts4481]

Just picked up a pair of $63 Amazon Warehouse Sony SSCS-5s and an SMSL AD18. Holy crapballs, budget audio nirvana!!! Only hiccup? Disassembling the speakers to remove dozens styrofoam peanuts that made their way into the bass port. Yeah, umm, Amazon packed ‘em without any wrapping.

[@cheapaudioman]

youch. what a pain. i hate packing peanuts

[@jonnyboy6359]

Randy try out the infinity r152 or r162. They regularly go on sale for $130 and $160 respectively.

[@danbaxter3597]

I agree, I sold my rp600m speakers because I liked the R162 better. It is the best speaker I’ve heard under $500.

[@jonnyboy6359]

@@danbaxter3597 They are definitely a great value within this price range. I've got the r152s connected to a loxjie a30 and they sound great. I just ordered a jbl 550p sub to add some bass. So for $500ish all in, I think it's gonna be a pretty sweet setup. **Just a tip... you can chat with Harman customer service and get an additional 20% discount. I told them that the sub I was looking at went back up to msrp from sale price and they sent me a individualized discount code for 20% off.

[@TonicofSonic]

Now to tie these speakers into a 5.1 we need a center channel shootout. Center channel is so important and yet so often a let down for consumers, buying between these three should not be done if you plan on a surrpund setup until you know what center channel you like best.

[@cheapaudioman]

second link in the description is the 5 channel set that includes the center. more often than not I don't even use a center channel for home theater. just select "no center" on the receiver and you're done. I often find that unless a center is integrated properly and even then can seem unnatural. I'm not a huge center speaker fan but I'm seeing and hearing some of the benefits.

[@TonicofSonic]

@@cheapaudioman Agreed, they tend to sound very unnatural compared to a 4.1 system and the alike. Also agreed they do not work well for the majority of situations, I see them setup improperly much more often than I see them setup in a way that brings any benefits. I also think that is where they get the bad reputation from. I use mine when the house is quiet and I am staying seated for a movie, I do not use it when any backround noise is present or I have more than three people viewing. The trick is placement and environment, so I understand why you would not want to open that Pandora's box. Maybe when you get the website up you can have a designated thread to center channel speakers where discussions on speaker choice and placement can be discussed, that way you can reference the thread for tips on choosing a speaker if your intention is to have a center, while also avoiding the never ending fallout of people having a bad experience then blaming you for their own audio inadequacies. 👍 Love the videos Randy, keep them coming, the people need this during these stressful times.

[@bruth3659]

You were right my ELAC's just keep sounding better as broken in. Hey, a probable unknown? Nadal de Luintra, from (The Way) could be ear cex. Full ranges and goose bump voacals!

[@ArmFanatic]

I think even with a cheap sub the klipsch pulls ahead but on its own it’s definitely lacking, I have the sony, the klipsch and two edifier bookshelf sets and once I added the sub the klipsch went from worst to best by a long shot

[@spekenbonen72]

Just received a set of Davis Acoustics Eva bookshelf speakers. (€162) If you want to keep listening, you probably bought a good set of speakers..? Anywho, running these through a Denon D 250 pre/power amp setup (2x 50W) from 1993. Yes, this was expensive back then. Glad I kept it... 😲🤪🥳

[@danbaxter3597]

Randy, could you do a shootout between these 3 speakers under $200? JBL Stage A130 Infinity R162 Polk S15

[@artcoffeejeff]

And remember, if you have the Sony's, take those grills OFF! I didn't, and it never occurred to me that the grills make them sound boring. Not, bad, but boring. One of my favorite speakers.

[@welderfixer]

Agreed. I really like mine for movies and music. But, I am hoping to own Emotiva B1+ someday.

[@stevesteve8264]

It really affects the highs im assuming?

[@William2005Ball]

Love the jamo 803 and the passive klipsch 600 . Which I still have. I heard klipsch bought out jamo . Is it true ?

[@cheapaudioman]

well technically Klipsch is owned by Voxx a publicly traded company. Jamo was purchased by the Klipsch group which is basically like a company run within a company. Short answer is "yes". Even the Jamo support is a klipsch email. Frankly, I think that the lower cost jamos stomp the R series of Klipsch. Not the RP series but just the R series

[@livebythesworddiebytheswor5969]

You missed off the Polk speakers?

[@jimbob5808]

Bought a pair of the SSCS5's and they are very good value for $44 per speaker.

[@cdyow]

Just ordered a pair of the Sony's from Amazon Warehouse deals. "Renewed" with 90 day warranty for $65. Wish me luck.

[@cheapaudioman]

I’m sure they’ll be great

[@tmac20031]

Sony has got to be pretty happy about your reviews lol

[@joele1989]

Which do you prefer Fluance Signature or Fluance Reference?

[@jacobb1354]

That envelope looks like my weekend to-do list. Or my high school math problem examples.

[@Alex4SiliconValley]

Now what’s the best budget center channel ?

[@thanapoll.849]

VIFA NE180-8 + ViFA DX25DG60 + crossover kit is about $200 Cabinet is about $30 and should consider best speakers under $200 + $30

[@Cartier_specialist]

I'm gonna get a pair of those Sony SSCS5 speakers when they drop the price to $71 again -- I just can't pay double the price just because I can't wait. Right now I'm super happy with my 1st generation NHT Super Zero speakers. If you've never heard them you don't know what you're missing.

[@TADDs101]

With all the hype we may never see them on sale that cheap again

[@JoseFerreira-zb7wh]

Would you say the Sonys at $210 is a good deal? Or at the price there are better options out there? (the Jamos i can get for $260 and can't find the fluances here)

[@sethbishop6007]

the Sony's are normally 99-115 on amazon. sometimes they spike to 150+. On rare occasions they're 73 bucks.

[@JoseFerreira-zb7wh]

@@sethbishop6007 i'm in europe. Here (almost every) speakers are more expensive, with some exceptions being european brands.

[@robagar9056]

What would be your top 3 picks for best streaming amplifiers, best bang for your buck?

[@cheapaudioman]

depends on what you're looking for sound wise and convenience wise. svs soundbase is great but it's $500. Arylic A50 would be my recommendation for something affordable

[@robagar9056]

@@cheapaudioman Speakers are Klipsch RP-600M & Paradigm Powered sub, currently have an older Onkyo Receiver, 85 watts per chanel, using KZbin music & Amazon HD. KZbin music primarily because I had Google Play Music & it was easy to transfer all my playlists. I'm always on the hunt for something better, enjoy your show & your down to earth approach. Thanks

[@nickschmeck3095]

I needed this video!!

[@wg5768]

Randy,you hurt my feelings! I bought four Klipsch R51m 's at 145 dollars a pair to use in my 5.1 home theater system and now I wonder if I made a bad decision. I also bought the Klipsch RP500C center channel speaker. I already had a subwoofer.

[@agill2103]

They r great speakers.

[@cheapaudioman]

You didn't. At $150 that's a decent deal. Also in HT and with a sub they're good. Don't look back

[@cjdontthink2]

There is a static noise in the audio on this video. Just thought I'd let you know if others haven't already. Also, do you have experience with the Micca RB42? Would love to get your take on those.

[@TonicofSonic]

He has a video with the miccas I believe.

[@cjdontthink2]

@@TonicofSonic Only the MB42X as far as I know

[@Gary_M]

Sounds fine to me.

[@cjdontthink2]

@@Gary_M less present when I listened on speakers but still there. On my sennheiser headphones it was very present.

[@MrQuijano187]

Have you ever made a review of the best white speakers? i keep looking at speakers but i feel im always drawn to the white ones due to look. Can you point me in the right direction ?

[@cheapaudioman]

KEF Q350's are pretty awesome and the Elac Debut Reference in White/Tan are pretty awesome

[@MrQuijano187]

@@cheapaudioman thank you for the quick response. I’ll be searching them tonight.

[@julioescobedo1630]

Randy, FYI - BB has the Klipsch R-51M now for $359.99! YIKES!!! What are they thinking?

[@edgardorivera617]

Want to add Randy. Listen to that Lady, Isley brother. Listen to the guitar solo on you favorite speakers. I would like to know what you think. Btw thanks for the 90 day amazon music HD. Awesome sound.