FOCAL'S SWEET SPOT! Focal Aria Evo X No 2 REVIEW (+ Aria Evo X Center)

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

📌 Thank you for watching! If you enjoyed this video, please hit the 👍 Like button! Considering the Focals? Visit bit.ly/48DVw8L 🔌 Watch the follow up to this review here kzbin.info/www/bejne/qmXNhnhvps2FfLc 🆘 Missed something? Open the description box ABOVE. Still have questions? Hit 🖤THANKS☝to highlight your Question! Please NO Links, Self Promotion, or Personal Info. Stay on topic and be respectful.

[@lieunguyetnga]

You missed comparison of Paradigm founder F100

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

@@lieunguyetnga Haven't heard the F100 so I cannot say how they compare, sorry.

[@richardbixler]

@3:36 is that Carl or Karl? It makes a difference. One rocks out to Pete Townsend and the other rocks out to ABBA 😂

[@pinkypoohable]

I have the previous model. The Aria 926. Best sounding speaker I have ever heard. It’s the ideal sound that I have been chasing in my mind for years. Big, expansive, smooth, detailed, fast, engaging and lively sound! Not too bright, not too warm. Just perfectly in the middle.

[@orenm1454]

I bought the focal aria 926 recently it's basically the same speaker (the newer version dips a little lower) & the price was significantly better. I paired it with the Yamaha a-s1200. For the first time in my life i feel i have entry level hi end. If i had to describe the sound it is effortless, airy & just fun. I love that i get to enjoy low level listening & not sacrifice anything. the only thing that is missing for me is bass definition & control which could be had if i went to the musical fidelity route of amps. Also the highs are great & very detailed. If you don't care about the looks it's a great deal.

[@FelixtheMetalcat]

Even though I had hoped for a review of the larger sized Focal speakers, this is still a great review that cuts to the points people need to know. It is nice to hear that Focal still is doing things in an extraordinary manner. I have been incredibly happy with my purchases of their products.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I appreciate that!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Boy, Carl better watch this video.

[@umrryan]

😂

[@chrisveltman1795]

Ha

[@KristiWright]

Murphy's Law says he will miss this one, only to comment on a later video about the dBs!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

@@KristiWright magic eight-ball says, "most likely."

[@LeezahB]

Who is Carl??😂😂😂

[@revelationsoundstudio]

I have the original 926s, and I just love them. The bass opened up after about 2 weeks of playing. My room is smaller than Andrew's room with the speakers being about a 9 feet away from each other. I use the McIntosh MC152 amp with them and they are great. Top end is not harsh or too splashy. On my NAD 658 preamp, I increased the bass on the Eq by 2 db and the bass was great. Bass is solid and rich. I did not need a sub though I did try the speakers with a sub. Midrange is detailed and thete is good depth to the music. I play classic rock, jazz and classical and these speakers sound just great.

[@txerapng]

The design on these is stunning. Great Sunday everyone.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I think they're very nice. Happy Sunday to you as well!

[@KristiWright]

Hi TexEra! Are you a photographer? (png)

[@txerapng]

@@KristiWright Hey Kristi, my name is Afonso Teixeira :). Among other digital media related things, yes. I also edit video and work with sound. How is your Sunday going?

[@KristiWright]

@@txerapng Afonso! Hello. YT used to show people's names, but sadly, that changed. Former photographer myself so I had to ask. What type of video editing do you enjoy? When you say you "work with sound," how so? Sorry if I'm being too nosey! I'm doing good. Thanks for asking! Just monitoring comments until the women's bb game comes on! I hope you have a great Sunday!

[@txerapng]

@@KristiWright Yeah, now it just shows my username. I am still studying and in school. I am a “Multimedia Technician”, that doesn’t translate well to English. One of the subjects I study, among Graphic Design, Programming, Motion Graphics Design, Videography, Photography and Photo Editing, is Video Editing, I’ve been working with Video Editing for 3 years. The type of work I do is quite different and depends on the client, I’ve worked with KZbinrs, Companies and Individuals. Regarding the “Working with sound” I’ve been studying music mixing & mastering for some months now and have been Mixing and Mastering songs occasionally. You’re not being too noosey Kristi, just having a great conversation. I just came back from the beach today, back to the city.

[@charlesking678]

The green would be my personal choice, but I applaud focal for taking a design risk and offering something other than piano black.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Agreed!

[@danielhenderson8316]

One comparison I didn't see in this was the Focal vs B&W 703 S3. Both are very much in competition with each other and you've reviewed both and I'd like to get your take.

[@tomkovarik04]

Thanks for the review! I'm considering the Aria Evo X No 2 for my living room home cinema, but worried the center channel might be too bulky for my TV console. Do you think a phantom center channel with these floor speakers would suffice, or should I opt for the aria center channel? Have you had any experience with it? Appreciate your insights!

[@KristiWright]

Hi Tom, check back on Friday. I will try to bring this up during the next Unplugged.

[@tomkovarik04]

@@KristiWright Perfect, looking forward to it!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

@tomkovarik04 Please join us tomorrow on the next episode of Unplugged! We do our best to answer your question.

[@tomkovarik04]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews Thanks for the heads-up. Will do!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Here's the link kzbin.info/www/bejne/qmXNhnhvps2FfLc

[@paulday3936]

I used to have the Focal Aria 926 which looks almost identical to the no. 2 being reviewed. Wonderful looking & sounding speakers - I had the gloss black.Even though these were the smallest floor standers in the range they were certainly not small!!!!! Although I loved them I had to move them on as my room looked like Stonehenge with those in there. Good & enjoyable review again though Andrew.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thank you for watching, Paul!

[@jondonnelly3]

I have a set for my computer on supernait 2. Not bad for 2nd system.

[@rickweiss8578]

Ok, I love your reviews. I have an early audiophile system: Yamaha R N1000A receiver driving my Focal Chora 826 D speakers. After your glowing review of Q Acoustics Concept 50 I snatched up a pair on sale up, for what I thought would be the last upgrade of my life. I am 74 years old. They are not as open as my Choras and I gave them to a friend. I talked about this in a prior comment. I moved up the ladder with speaker wire several times starting with adding banana plugs to 14 ga OFC wire to recently buying World's Best Cables 7ga biwire. Each step improved the sound quality. I like the Dolby on all the time so I don't use 2 sets of wire. So for my early audiphile system in a typical living room the speakers are optimized. Guitar, piano, brass, percussion are wonderful. There is no ear fatigue. I love how little volume it takes to drive them. However I would like a little cleaner and stronger, crisper female vocal for Brazil 66 Mas Que Nada. For me heavy bass ruins good music. Openness, separation, and detail are what it is all about for me. I will probably upgrade by the end of 2025. B&W 703 S3? Mission 770? Yamaha NS 2000A? SVS Ultra Evolution Titans appear to be bass oriented. KEF R11 Meta appears to be too bland. Kef LS60 is too high tech. In your opinion are the Aria Evo X speakers a substantial improvement over my Choras, enough so to be my upgrade? They are currently on sale online and appear to be the least expensive alternative. For the 3 people who found this interesting, IMO you can't find a better value than Chora 826 D speakers at close out prices with World's Best Cables 7ga ultimate biwires. If you look around you can do that for $1,500.00.

[@carlbolterstein]

I feel so seen. As I most definitely do, rock out.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

CARL! We were worried you were going to miss the video.

[@carlbolterstein]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews Thou shalt not miss a speaker review. Well okay sometimes it happens.

[@aaronlane05]

What a great looking colour, really love to see brands offer something other than the blacks and whites.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I agree!

[@HunterMikeWI]

I have the previous gen Aria 926. $1000 each from Crutchfield saves a ton over money over these for very much the same speaker. These are listed at $2400 each. I use them in a mixed HT and music setup driven by a Monoprice 5x200. I use Dirac to tame the 100-200Hz room mode but leave them un-EQ’d over 500Hz. A slight recess between 2-4kHz makes them sound relaxed but still love the crisp highs. At 53 I don’t hear much over 14k anyway. Gotta give it to the French for their art.

[@nathankilgore7061]

I live with these speakers and I think this review is spot on regarding the characteristics! Well done.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thank you for watching. I think you'll enjoy the follow up video of Unplugged! kzbin.info/www/bejne/qmXNhnhvps2FfLc

[@ChaiBearProductions]

Hey Andrew, great review! I own the Focal Vestia 3 which utilizes the same TAM tweeter tech minus the new tuned mass damping (TMD) that’s used in the new Aria. I know you reviewed the Vestia No 1 so how would these compare sound wise? Does the Aria better everything the Vestia offers or are they comparable in some aspects? Thanks

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

The Aria Evo X, to me, is closer (but better) to the Kanta than it is to the Vestia. I prefer the Theva to the Vestia, but that's just me.

[@ChaiBearProductions]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews Funny you say that. I actually listened to a set of Kanta 2 and wasn’t all that impressed. You think the Evo X is better?

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

@@ChaiBearProductions I do. I'm sure, on paper, the Kanta is "better." Still, having heard them all in this house and being able to compare our in-room measurements, there's just not enough of a justifiable difference for me to spend more on the Kanta if I were buying a costlier Focal. Assuming you want to make one, I think the better investment would be to leapfrog Kanta in favor of Sopra. But if you can't go Sopra, I think Evo X is the higher-end sweet spot.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

@ChaiBearProductions, You'll get your answer on tomorrow's UNPLUGGED!

[@erichudson3307]

I owned the aria 936's for a good while. Easily the best speakers I've owned. The dynamics, bass, clarity of mids was just phenomenal. Great review!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Appreciate you sharing!

[@Plextortion]

Would like to see you review the No 4's.

[@lonniefarmer7067]

Those 801 Signatures are a tough speaker to compare with anything when driven by cost is no object electronics. That is how is how I heard them at their world debut a month before the release. I was tempted to sell a house.... Glad the Focal's lit your fuse!

[@SilfredoSerrano]

So, I love that the porthole is up front. Easier to position with regards to the wall behind.

[@LXIX4U]

Love your videos and really appreciate the opinion of both yourself and that of your better half. Love the New Format (Unplugged) with the responses to comments coming later in the week, just please don't feel the need to defend yourselves from the idiots. Let them rage in the background on their own.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Unplugged is live! kzbin.info/www/bejne/qmXNhnhvps2FfLc

[@slip6699]

Thanks for comparing against the Kef's. Im leaning towards those or the Q Acoustics concepts. I will have to think about theses now based on the music pairing taste.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

@slip6699 Tune in tomorrow morning for our thoughts on how these three speakers compare on the next Unplugged!

[@Jason-xu4gn]

I recently purchased the Focal Aria 926 on sale for $2300 AU, which retail at $5900. The KEF R11 Meta's are priced at $11500. I was looking at the KEF Q750 at $2590 which you gave a very positive review on but went with the Focal's being on sale. In your opinion which one would you have gone for, the 926 or Q750? Regardless I'm very happy with the 926.

[@LeezahB]

Another excellent and thoroughly enjoyable review! Love speaker reviews!!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Glad you like them! Hope you had a good weekend Leezah!

[@bvanbiezen3008]

I wonder how the Aria Evo X no.2 compares to their Aria Evo X no.4. Both have the same design and driver count, except for the no.4 being bigger in size than the no.2.

[@LiviuGeorge85]

❤ new video ❤ i've been waiting for this review 😊 thak you for making it 🎉

[@KristiWright]

Thank you so much for watching!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

You are so welcome!

[@CButti-x1s]

Good Sunday morning Andrew and Kristi. Another good review. Glad to see Focal seems to be moving away from the bright tipped up highs they've been known for. I've actually avoided them in the past due to this sound reputation but may need to consider them more in the future. Thanks and keep up the good work.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thanks for watching. I found this tweeter to be extended without being aggressive. It may have lacked some top-end energy for Kristi, but I liked it.

[@bearclaw5115]

I have the whole Chora line and I don't find them to be bright at all. But that could be the Marantz running them too. I briefly had an RZ-50 and they sounded terrible on it. Vocals sounded pinched tight. If you look at the frequency response they got, you can see a very linear downward slope with just a tiny emphasis on the top end. That will probably make a lot of people happy.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

We hope you'll tune into tomorrow's Unplugged, where we address your comment about the Focals!

[@philbert9117]

Yet another great review. I'm not currently in the market but I'm really curious to hear these speakers. I spent a lot of time last year auditioning the Focal Aria 936 and 948. While I really enjoyed their sound, the "it" factor seemed to be missing for me. I ultimately heard the Focal Kantas, fell in love with them on the spot, and pulled out my credit card. What's interesting is that the new Evo X's seem like the love child between the Aria and Kanta lines They have a similar physical design to the Arias, and they're coupled with flax drivers similar to the Kantas. So while I'm planning to enjoy my Kantas for many years to come, I'm very curious to hear the Evos. Had they been available last year, I wonder if I would have felt the "it" factor when listening to them. And if so, would I have saved the money and gone for them over my beloved Kantas? Great job as always, and I can't wait to hear Kristi's thoughts about the Evo X's in the next video.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

You sort of hit upon my only real gripe with Focal: the amount of parity they have within their own line. More so than any other speaker brand in recent memory, I feel Focal's current lineup is the most confusing or difficult to "understand."

[@bearclaw5115]

Enjoy your Kanta's. These Evo's are Aria's through and through. Only the tweeter has changed. More keeping the line relevant than a redesign. The Aria's and Kanta's already shared the flax woofers but your Kanta's have the beryllium tweeter, where the real magic happens. Enjoy!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Great observation @philbert911y! Tune in tomorrow morning to see your comment covered on the next Unplugged!

[@philbert9117]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews Neat! I'm gonna be famous! ;-)

[@davep2945]

You know, everyone likes to complain that audio is dying because there aren't as many brick and mortar stores as there used to be. But it is undeniable that there are more choices for great sounding electronics and speakers than ever before and at all price points. This really is the golden age of home audio as far as performance and choice for the dollar goes. As for the KEF R11's, well, I haven't heard them but I have yet to meet a KEF product I really liked. However, as I always say, things change and I'm always up for listening to something new. I love your comment about speakers you want to listen to versus evaluate. If I have to try and force myself to like a speaker because by objectively evaluating it's strong points though they never coalesce into an organic listening experience then they're not for me. In the end I want to enjoy the music not criticize the speaker. And, by the way, it's your home, your room, your style and your money so do as you please. I wouldn't waste my time or effort responding to dingbats who have never and will never contribute a dime to your efforts but want to bash the results.

[@KristiWright]

Feeling that last bit so hard! Like, oh no! The internet doesn't like something. I'm shocked.

[@lfazio9690]

Good morning from one happy audio nerd - Twas just gifted a pair of Martin Logan Quest Z 😮. Paired them with a vintage Pioneer SA8500 integrated and the pairing WORKS! Sounding juuust a tad rounded or warm and Diana Krall says, I’m loving the tonality 🎉

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

That's awesome! Appreciate you sharing and watching this morning!

[@umrryan]

Vintage pioneer is such a vibe 😍

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

@@umrryan They are! We have two, and they continue to impress.

[@lfazio9690]

I wouldn’t have thought the SA8500 would handle these panels with a level of effortlessness that totally shocked me, especially on transients.

[@sunvalleydrivemusic]

Seeing the B&W’s hanging out in back to back videos is really pumping up the anticipation! Can’t wait for that review. Btw, have yall considered bringing in some open back speakers? I’d love to see a review from a YT’er who isn’t a fan boi of open back speakers. Love the content, y’all!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I would like to revisit open baffle speakers this year, not sure which yet, but I think there may be one in our future.

[@westcoast708]

Gosh, so many speakers, too, choose from these days. Thanks for your honest reviews A 😊 ..

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

My pleasure! Thanks for joining us.

[@mikechristensen1285]

When you listen critically for these reviews does your glass coffee table stay there? Have you experimented with moving it? Just curious. Room is handsomely appointed and comfortable looking!

[@alantan6786]

Kef kc92! Are you reviewing it or just replacing your Klipsch subwoofer?

[@KristiWright]

We don't review subwoofers but I'm sure we'll bring it up at some point - maybe in an episode of Unplugged. The Klipsch is our subwoofer and is not being replaced. We were sent this sub to go with another pair of speakers.

[@royceCMR]

@@KristiWrightwould love both of your quick comments on the two! Fingers crossed for the next unplugged!

[@randolphblack2554]

I love the green finish! And a clean treble that may present a possibly more honest presentation of Celine's vocal range without glare or blare. Thank you once again, Andrew

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

It is nice. Thanks for watching!

[@IanMacDonald-u1v]

I miss having an audio gear shop in my city to go demo speakers like this.

[@IanMacDonald-u1v]

And that green looks awesome!!

[@StevenLynn]

New living room setup is 🔥. I picked up the 948 pair early 2023. About 6 weeks later Evo line launched. Maybe in a few years I will swap things out when the Evo's get replaced for a newer model. Funny part is Schiit did the same thing to me with the Vidar releasing the Vidar 2 shortly after I picked up two. Regardless, no regrets on my Foc-iit system. Bedroom setup needs an upgrade. Hrm...

[@bearclaw5115]

I see what you did there.

[@Brett1334]

I actually LOVE the colour of the drivers! I’m actually surprised you both don’t considering the colour pallet you guys have!

[@tylerflores4761]

What a beautiful speaker like how they offer gloss finishes

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Focal does a good job with their finishes across all their lines. Thanks for tuning in!

[@unstablenetwork4744]

A big fan of the smaller towers. Love the looks as well. The green isn't for everyone, but I'm glad there are options.

[@KristiWright]

They are pretty! Thanks for watching.

[@bearclaw5115]

That green colorway is going to hot!

[@Nate.drill86]

I absolutely love the green look... but wouldn't want it in my living room 😅 The older Aria noyer walnut matches my room perfectly and at half the price!

[@johannesnel8060]

Looking forward to the B&W 801 review. That must rate as one of the best speakers in the world.

[@allankegler849]

Hi Andrew, in your reviews of the Polk reserve line you said a lot of the same things, not fatiguing, goat and a few others. But you don’t compare them at all. Unless I missed something. Could you? Thanks

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Tune into this Friday's video for your answer.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/qmXNhnhvps2FfLc

[@umrryan]

Morning friends! Love the style of these, and more color/finish options is great in my book.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Morning, and yeah, Focal kills it when it comes to finishes.

[@GaryWalters]

Nice review. That said I wish you would have compared these to Focal’s current offerings. Currently have the Focal Vestia. I am still in the return period. They share the same tweeter and have comparable styling. Would you say the Aria’s are worth the upgrade if you have Vestias?

[@ChaiBearProductions]

How are you liking your Vestias? I have the Vestia No 3 and certainly favor them over the Chora 826 model I owned before.

[@GaryWalters]

@@ChaiBearProductions I have the. Vestia N1 and the Vestia center. I like them. My one complaint is I have to cross them @80hz do to weak bass. They didn’t have the Aria Evo X when I bought the Vestias otherwise I might have bought them. It’s just I wonder if they are worth 50% more $.

[@danielhenderson8316]

The Arias will have better bass punch and sound warmer than the Vestias. Not sure if it's worth it to you to upgrade, but I preferred them to the Choras when I bought the original Arias. Something you won't find in most Focals are bass rumble. They're mid bass punchy, but you'll need a sub to go low or to get rumble.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

@GaryWalters Tune in to tomorrow's episode of UNPLUGGED to get an answer to your question!

[@GaryWalters]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews definitely will check it out but can’t do live during work hours 😬

[@arunashamal]

I love that their tweeters come pre pushed in!

[@rickweiss8578]

I keep the dolby on my 826 D Chora on full time by biwiring. I think it improves performance for music. A few are still availble on close out.

[@connorduke4619]

Excellent review yet again. Will you one day review the Dynaudio Evoke 50 or Dynaudio Contour 30i?

[@Powerpickle68]

Thank you for another review. Hopefully you will be reviewing something from Cerwin Vega like the SLA365 in the near future. I would really like to know what you and Kristi think of them.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Wouldn't say no to them!

[@sgandrew]

I’m excited for the 801 Signature review!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I am as well!

[@mostirreverent]

Is the walnut finish actually walnut this time around?

[@michaelknibbs]

R11 is technically more expensive? As distinct from really more expensive?

[@kadajawi2]

That green looks great. And I'm glad that Focal is getting flatter... especially down low. My main question would be: How do they compare to the Kanta 1? And I think I know the answer... the Kantas will lose? In that review you were absolutely right about the bass boost, it's a shame that Focal has done that (without giving something like a switch at the back to get rid of it), however together with a MiniDSP that can be fixed... Btw., in Germany, the Aria Evo X No 2 cost about half as much as the KEF R11 Meta... those are very close in price to the Focal Kanta 1.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Your assumptions are correct. While the Kantas are or can be good, they weren't my favorite, and in this case, I'd honestly save and go with the Aria X over the Kantas, but that's just me.

[@rogermorse_]

How is this line comparing to the previous 926 / 936 models?

[@MasterMark5]

I like the speakers but the center channel is lacking, wish they made a bigger 3 way model. I think the svs ultra center is a better alternative

[@Nate.drill86]

I had the same approach when I picked up the Aria 936 last year. I demo'd the matching Focal cc900 center and SVS ultra, ultimately returning the Focal center and sticking with the three way SVS.

[@MasterMark5]

@@Nate.drill86 Yeah the center just isn't up to par with the towers or bookshelves

[@kl9941]

Listen to the Yamaha NS800 stand mount. Blew my mind as the best bang for the busk at the Montreal Audiofest.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I believe they're coming.

[@Prerich45]

That moss green is hot!!!!

[@waynestevens79]

Great reviews all the way around! I've been there too...still have my Transparent mid entry level cables and interconnects...have mercy. What brand or and type of wire did you use to build your own speaker (wires) cables?

[@juliangst]

Did you get different room treatments for the front wall? What happened to the slat wall?

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

We removed the slats about 2 months ago. We now have a fabric wall.

[@juliangst]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews Looks really nice!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Tune in tomorrow to the next Unplugged... :))) @juliangst

[@saverioricchiuto5386]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews would you kindly comment on why you changed (i .e. aestethics, new/different sound issues you had to address, etc.)? That would be beneficial to everybody who has watched your previous “room building” and “rew tutorial” in the past. Apologies if you had already done that in another video that I may have missed.

[@bearclaw5115]

I purchased the Chora's largely on your recommendation and I love them. Thanks! So my question as a restless audiophile is; Are these as exciting as the Chora's? Do you lose anything? Perhaps you could discuss this on your unplugged. Thanks guys, I love your videos and drop everything to watch them!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Tune in Sunday, I'll do my best to answer.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

@bearclaw5115 Join us for tomorrow's episode of UNPLUGGED for our answer!

[@nickburge8036]

Like some of the other commenters, I am enjoying the new format. (We still miss you Kristi!). The pace and detail are just right, it almost feels like short format content. I find myself breezing through this review, anticipating the next Unplugged video's additional context. Would love to hear even more comparisons and component matchups as you dive deeper into the comments.

[@KristiWright]

Hi Nick! We're hoping this serves more people with the content they prefer. See you on Friday!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Yay! Thank you!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Unplugged is available to watch now! kzbin.info/www/bejne/qmXNhnhvps2FfLc

[@corradogalizia5374]

Kind of surprised no comparison with the Concept 50’s?

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

We got you! kzbin.info/www/bejne/qmXNhnhvps2FfLc

[@NosEL34]

Who does #2 work for!!! I was just looking at these the other day. Using the R700 currently but are these new Focal different enough, yet good enough to make a switch? I love the R700 but looking for something new/different. How do the 2 speakers compare? Thanks!!

[@jondonnelly3]

Nah not much in it, need to step up another grand.

[@steveh545]

i'm used to chocolate, rich, leathery, and now we can add "agnostic" to describe a speaker (tweeter in this case). love it.

[@KristiWright]

I believe you understand the point here but for anyone curious, "agnostic," in this instance, means "not preferring a particular device or system." In other words, regardless of the type/genre of music, "even poorer recordings," did not cause any issues.

[@steveh545]

@@KristiWright yup, i get the point, and the word worked well in this case, more so than "leathery" or other audiophile terminology lol.

[@AJ-zl8bz]

Another great review. However, I'm taking a moment to speak to and embracing the change to the channel. Looking forward to the new episode with Kristi that will clearly call out some of the comparisons you missed (B&W) and to get her thoughts. (it's awesome that there is new content) Also, I saw the focal green in person, it is a very good looking stand out speaker.

[@KristiWright]

Thank you, AJ. I sincerely appreciate your comment!

[@boba2783]

good work on the video review, I think this format is ultra comprehensive and a good nod to your viewers regular questions, or is that regular viewers questions?

[@KristiWright]

I'm glad you like it.

[@marklloyd4153]

Would the Aria X 4 be better while costing more ? I’m interested in in the 4 as I have 2 huge rooms I listen in

[@psreinc]

How would you compare them against the Polk r700s

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

You'll get your answer on tomorrow's Unplugged!

[@gpapa31]

OMG @6:32 😮I can’t wait for that speaker review!!! Note: I wish they sent you the 805 D4 Signature instead, it would have allowed you to draw direct comparison with the D4 you reviewed last year. I would love to know the difference. But 801s it is.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I wanted the 801's and waited a LONG time for them to arrive. I wanted them because I wanted to see how far the 801 has come since I had them last, which was the 801 D2.

[@gpapa31]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews can’t wait to hear your thoughts. Hopefully, 🙏 pls if you could, try and check some classical piano music or concertos. I demoed the 801D4s with CLASSE AUDIO last year and listened to Yuja Wang playing Prokofiev Piano Sonata. Goosebumps start to finish. I would buy these speakers just to listen to classical music. Soooo good!

[@erhman2004]

Very good review. I like the plinth feature built into the design. I'd like to see that in more speakers. Do you think you'll do a review of any of the new line from SVS? The Ultra Evolution series? I saw them at CES back in January. They were pretty impressive and could compare to the Folcal line.

[@KristiWright]

@erhman2004 If you scroll down, you'll find your question answered already. Look for denverwilliams3005.

[@mukeshgoyal1155]

Focal aria evo x or klipsch 8000 or klipsch rf7iii which one is better for dedicated home theatre

[@bazabal1]

This is like the premium Kenny Powers! like the cool one. i enjoy your content.

[@Cecy1b]

Hey, thanks for the review, saw amp-f2 in the video, wanted to know if you have any opinions on it (like how well it performs for the price)

[@KristiWright]

We're not ready to share our thoughts on the F2 yet. We need to live with a product for a while and test it in various setups before speaking publicly.

[@Cecy1b]

@@KristiWrightoh, that’s fair, thanks for reply. Sorry, if it’s not too bothersome, just one question - I saw a subwoofer on video with A8 and F2 setup - is it connected to the streamer together with the amp? Asking since AMP-F2 doesn’t have a dedicated sub out

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

@Cecy1b Thanks for watching. The sub featured in the video's b-roll was not connected to the Eversolo A8, however you can run a sub off the A8 using it's preamp outs provided your amplifier can use the other preamp outs. You would set the crossover and subwoofer volume on the sub itself. The sub shown was used with other components in our testing. I left it out because I'm testing a variety of power sources throughout the speaker evaluation process.

[@Cecy1b]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews I see. Thanks a lot for the reply.

[@ystebadvonschlegel3295]

I have focal aria 2 ways. They were a WAF compromise - she didn’t want large towers and loved the flax drivers. They sound very nice pared with the kef subwoofer. Wonder how they sound compared to these. Personally I’d buy a pair of pendragons, but….

[@user-gz6tx6yp3v]

Are those the 301's?

[@Deyorew]

You going to be posting a review for that Sony 98”? Ready for it!

[@boruthribernik9596]

Do you think Denon AVC-X4800H av receiver would be good enough to power these speakers?

[@Antimonkat]

Unfortunately, even having (recently even) reviewed them you didn't make the one comparison I was most curious about, the SVS Evolutions. Based on their relative comparisons to other speakers you've compared both to, I can get an idea, but this was a head to head I was really looking forward to, both seem similar enough in price and capability, and I am considering both, though leaning twords SVS. Maybe in the after show you'll make a direct head to head opinion between them.

[@Antimonkat]

oh, Darn you KZbin...I didn't notice the date, you actually HAVEN'T reviewed the SVS at this point, well then I'm disapointed you didn't mention the evo's in the SVS review, but you can't compare everything to everything, I get it.

[@mattroberson8666]

@@AntimonkatI just compared the focal evo x no. 3 to the svs ultra evolution pinnacles at an audio store. I liked the focals better.

[@Antimonkat]

@@mattroberson8666 thanks for the heads up/follow up. what were your thoughts as to why if you don't mind

[@mattroberson8666]

@@AntimonkatI A/B compared them for a while. The Pinnacles, if you’re in the sweet spot, throw a huge soundstage, and they are very fun to listen to. Imaging is great. I heard them on a NAD class D amp and pre with Dirac eq, as well as on a Rotel receiver with 200 watts and no room correction. (I also heard the titans on a Sony AVR, which was not a good pairing). While the focals didn’t have the giant soundstage, they were more refined and composed, and definitely less bright. The top on the pinnacles could be too much for me sometimes. On classical music, instruments sounded more realistic and textured. Listening to jazz, the bass sounded more subwoofery / amplified on the SVS, while the focals sounded more like an acoustic presentation.

[@mattroberson8666]

@@Antimonkat And the green and black leather on the focals looks fantastic in person.

[@jaydavid5343]

Great review, thanks. I'm waiting on a pair of the no 1's with a Red sub. What I'm most curious about though are those leather/metal-framed CHAIRS! What are they? I want on for my listening space... Thanks again, J

[@jaydavid5343]

Sorry - REL sub...

[@Tombolie]

In your review you compared it to the K2, how does it compare to the focal aria 926?

[@raymondscott7412]

Hi Andrew, I know unrelated for this video specifically, however I was wondering if you could do a revised video just covering some of the best budget based Bookshelf speakers for late 2023 / 2024 thus far. I am interested in looking at pulling something together as a budget system using as best a buy I can get in budget category for music for bookshelf speakers alongside what I was going to buy the WiM amp but decided now to look at the SoundLab 6000a so I can get a streamer integrated. The 6000A may be a little bit older perhaps but your review on it was great. Looks like speakers are the tricky bit perhaps but wondering your thoughts on the bundle. Speakers which appear to stand out on your reviews in the past - Bronze 100, Kanto Audio YU6? I think, the Projek although concerned that they as a manufacturer only have two speaker choices although seems the Projek review you did was on your very high list in these budget based categories. Keen to get thoughts.

[@lukemcdo]

Hi Raymond, It feels like you're still quite undecided on a few things based on what I'm reading -- Kanto sells the YU6 active "Powered" speakers that only need a source in order to play music but don't need amplification. They also sell a Kanto 5.25 speaker that is "passive" and uses external amplification. I would hesitate to buy a Kanto speaker for anything larger than a bedroom. Kanto is great at their nearfield niche and I'm sure the 5.25s are fine, but their power handling numbers suggest they're still not meant for a larger entertaining space. You'll have to decide where your room lands. As for the 6000A -- most people use 6000A to refer to the AudioLab 6000A, which is a great amplifier, a solid DAC, and a Bluetooth-only streamer. The 6000A is a bit overkill for Kanto 5.25s, and might even be a bit overkill for Bronze 100s (which are fine but not such a standout that I'd get hooked on the idea of getting them). In general, people tend to spend more on their speakers than their amplification, though this can change once you exit the $4000 system cost territory, and it can change if you get a killer budget deal on a component. For example, though, I'd be surprised if the Arcam A5 or NAD C 328 didn't wring just as much out of the Bronze 100s, and I'd probably entrust Bronze 100s to the Onkyo 3100 Andrew just reviewed for at most marginally worse performance. This isn't meant to be a comprehensive answer, but should give you some things to think about. As for what speakers to buy, that tends to be a far more opinionated question than what amplification to use. If you think Monitor Audio is where you want to go and you're looking in the price range of the 6000A for amplification, I'd encourage you to go up to the silvers (Andrew reviewed the tower, but other reviewers note the sound signature is similar), even at the expense of going with one of the two amps I listed for less money on that front toward your total budget. Otherwise, I've personally loved my Elac UBR62s for a wider open space and I've enjoyed my RP-600M IIs in a narrower listening environment. Edit: I'm realizing you're talking about the 6000A Play. If you can find it, not a bad option, though my understanding is that it's being discontinued. With that amp, it is possible for the software to get out of date. I would be surprised if AudioLab aggressively cut it off from support though.

[@sandeepjohny6480]

Really very good review but you missed about cinematic experience with the same speaker especially about dialog inteligiblity while watching movies But really happy that you have prisma premare products with you along time waiting the review of same and Denon A1H also I personally want to sea the review of Canton Townus 90 speaker review through your chanel

[@KristiWright]

Be sure to watch our follow-up video on Friday. I'll make sure we address your question on intelligibility.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

@sandeepjohny6480 Please join us for tomorrow's episode of UNPLUGGED! We do our best to answer your question.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/qmXNhnhvps2FfLc

[@So-rp6en]

How do you feel about 2 6.5 inch woofers versus 1 12 inch woofers?

[@charlesking678]

I got into this hobby from car audio and I'm still into car audio. Im more into sound quality builds than bass head builds. Focal is big in the car audio scene especially the k2. These arias use the focal flax series drivers which is their model below the k2. I find the k2 tweeter too sharp and prefer the flax series so i bet I'd like these bad boys.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I prefer these to the K2 Aria we reviewed a little while back.

[@Karto86]

A more calm version of klipsch with dedicated mid-range driver - sounds perfect for me :)

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I hope you'll join us for tomorrow's episode of Unplugged. Hint, hint.

[@arnoldhenkee6010]

What amplifiers do you recommend with this focals speakers Thank you

[@whistlingrock3157]

Can you discuss what cables for E-Arc and wires (size and name) for my Marantz Avr 40

[@CaptHotah]

1:33 those are beautiful cables? What are they? Thanks

[@sturdyvw]

@andrew Robinson I’ve been gone too long, did ya’ll move or just redo the room?

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I guess it depends on how long you've been gone. We moved a couple of years ago and we also changed up our room here a couple of months ago.

[@tao6295]

Would love to see a comparison between Klipsch sub and KC92 (would be even better if you could throw REL in the comparison too).🙂

[@lukemcdo]

That inverted metal tweeter seems fascinating. No harshness or ringing? That said I do find it slightly ironic -- my interest in seeing a good metal tweeter would be to have a harder-to-damage speaker, but I'm not sure I trust flax woofers more than I trust a soft-dome tweeter.

[@ChaiBearProductions]

It sounds similar to a soft dome which is strange at first. It’s a very refined tweeter.

[@jondonnelly3]

If anything they are slighly rolled off at 16KHz+ not a bit deal cause i cant much past 17 anymore.

[@danielhenderson8316]

The inverted dome also throws a wider soundstage as well than most domed tweeters as well.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

@lukemcdo Your question is addressed in tomorrow's Unplugged! I hope you'll be joining us.

[@MrAssasssin1]

hi Andrew can you suggest 'wharfedale aura 4 or Aria Evo X No 2" or any other Focal product. I like warm sound and m buying it for my small home-theater room (13feet x 14 feet) please your reply will help me to choose the right one.

[@KristiWright]

*Thanks for joining us this morning! Is anyone watching March Madness? Any predictions for today's women's game? I think it's going to be a good one!*

[@chrisveltman1795]

Iowa. Purdue. It’s good to be a fan of the Big 10 this year! #goblue

[@KristiWright]

@@chrisveltman1795 Andrew and I watched the Alabama/UConn game yesterday and can you believe he thought I would root for Alabama just because they were the underdog? It's like he doesn't even know me anymore. I will never! 🤘 I'm honestly most excited to watch the girls play. South Carolina might pull it off, especially if Clark goes dormant in the first half again.

[@chrisveltman1795]

@@KristiWright As with every championship game, I just hope it’s a good game. But SC is a beast. They have me feeling nervous.

[@Garybologne3237]

I hope Iowa wins for the woman, and I hope it's Purdue. Being from Iowa and under the Big Ten umbrella it's my duty, lol. Go Hawks! Also thank you the great content as always!! You guys are the best!

[@KristiWright]

@@Garybologne3237 ...and we thank you for watching!!

[@maxpower78-15]

Dude!!! Green finish? Forest green kinda? I like it.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

It's a very unique moss green that changes in saturation and luminosity more than any other speaker paint color I've seen.

[@dirtymotley9048]

The green my really go great with my wife’s Italian Plaster

[@carlsousa]

Hi Andrew, it would be great if you reviewed the No 3 and No 4 as well :) how do they compare to the B&W 703 S3 and other 700 series?

[@TylerNessss]

Would be very much interested as well. Focal Evo X n4, B&W 703/702 S3. I was interested in the Kef R11's en Yamaha NS2000, but I think they are just to expensive. Over here you can get the Focal nr2 for around 3600,- a pair, nr4 is at 4500,- I believe. Both Kef and Yamaha are close to 7000,-

[@chulwoo00]

Will you be reveiwing AVR-A1H soon? It may not be too exciting, but some people are certainly interested..

[@KristiWright]

Yes, it will get a review.

[@TeressaWI8777]

Yes please review Denon A1H

[@Stengell]

SO Focal Aria Evo X No 3 or Dynaudio Evoke 50s?

[@charlesking678]

Hey Andrew you think kef could send you the r7 meta? Fantastic speaker and not as large as the r11. Fits better in most normal sized. Living rooms.

[@KristiWright]

Charles, KEF is among the most challenging brands to get review samples. We've been asking and waiting for a pair of the R3-M for a year. We take what we can get. :)

[@charlesking678]

@@KristiWright I gotcha. There aren't many r7 reviews. I checked out the r11 in person and they are huge. Too large for my personal space as I don't have a dedicated theater room. The r7 is a nice middle ground. Can't wait for your take on these focal speakers kristi!

[@KristiWright]

@@charlesking678 I'll see you Friday then!

[@mellowtonin4166]

hey I am new here, I just watched under 1000 dollar setup which I loved. would you guys do under 1000 dollar setup with used speakers/system?

[@mukeshgoyal1155]

Is it better than klipsch rf7iii for home theater

[@Luke-qs2cg]

Where is the kristie cut?

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

We've changed our video format a little. Tune in tomorrow morning for our next episode of Unplugged. You'll find her there!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Here you go! kzbin.info/www/bejne/qmXNhnhvps2FfLc