Go Buy NEW SPEAKERS! 4 Reasons to and 3 Reason Not To

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Recommended Streamer
WIIM Mini amzn.to/33CL99w
Bluesound Node shop-links.co/...
Recommended Speaker List
Around $100 (These prices will fluctuate between $75 - $150)
Sony SSCS5 - Lively amzn.to/3pZNnGk
Pioneer AJ First Gen - Laid Back
Neumi BS5 -Neutral amzn.to/3q0SR3B
Around $200
Emotiva Airmotiv B1+ - Crystal Clear and Punchy emotiva.com?aff=9
Jamo Concert howl.me/cf295u...
Elac Debut b5.2 - Neutral amzn.to/2WPNQxw
JBL Stage A130 - Neutral/Great All Arounder at $179 the best value amzn.to/3t7gOHe
Around $400
Emotiva B2+ emotiva.com?aff=9
Jamo C93ii Bit - Boosted on Top howl.me/cf295u...
Q Acoustics 3030i - Neutral with Punch - amzn.to/2OQkpLo
Around $500
SVS Prime bit.ly/2LozJgF
Wharfedale Diamond 12.2 bit.ly/2ZckoD9
Around $600
Elac Uni-Fi UB5.2 - Neutral amzn.to/3s3srPG
Elac Debut Reference - Buttery but Detailed amzn.to/39bt6WC
Polk Reserve R100/200 howl.me/cf29Ue...
Aperion Novus - Neutral and probably the best desktop speaker one can get $599 bit.ly/2Q1H9rW
Aperion Novus Open Box $449 bit.ly/3us8zGx
Wharfedale Diamonds Lush and Detailed amzn.to/3aBAso0 Come as singles
Recommended Amp List
Under $100
Aiyima A07 - Neutral and Full amzn.to/3g9YLNf
Around $130
SMSL AD18 - DAC/Amp Lively on top but solid tone controls amzn.to/3rVZxkN
SMSL SA300 $140 amzn.to/3u83oLs
Around $250
SMSL DA-9 Balanced Amp amzn.to/34SdbLs
Around $400
Emotiva TA-100 - DAC, Phono Stage, Pre Outs - Balanced and Tasty emotiva.com?aff=9
Vista Audio Spark www.vista-audio...
Recommended DACs
FX D01 amzn.to/3d9GY6U
SMSL SU8s amzn.to/2SWTGiw
Denafrips Ares 2 www.denafrips....
Subs
Emotiva SE8 emotiva.com?aff=9
Emotiva SE12 emotiva.com?aff=9
SVS SB1000 Pro bit.ly/3scmwsc

[@cheapaudioman]

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[@pounceonyou1958]

Asked you what you thought about something on one of your previous video's, got no answer, so now I'm not interested in commenting or asking anything, or even watching your video's.

[@cheapaudioman]

@@pounceonyou1958 I really appreciate you watching. Unfortunately I get hundreds of comments a day. Sometimes over 1000. I can’t read and respond to every comment. I would love to but if I did that I wouldn’t have time to make more content. I’m sorry that I didn’t get to your comment. I try to get to as many as I can.

[@pounceonyou1958]

@@cheapaudioman Ok, well if you want to see that comment, it is in your top comment in this video, Impossible! Did Someone Finally Do It? A new Amp that Sounds like a Vintage Receiver! Yamaha AS801

[@ChrisMeirose]

Randy - there's a bunch of issues in your links for the product links in your post(s). Emotiva links just take you to the front page with that "?aff=9" in the link not doing anything. Your Patreon isn't actually a link. You have 2 Amazon Unlimited Music links. This is NOT a complaint, just figured you likely don't look at those links all that frequently and may not know. I enjoy your channel a lot!

[@chashint1]

@@pounceonyou1958 and yet, here you are.

[@jpobitzer]

Randy, OMG, as a married guy with kids(not out of the house yet) who also loves music and audio gear-I laughed my ass off with this video. Thank you. This video is yet another example of why I love your channel. Keep it real and humble and never forget us everyday guys and gals.

[@cheapaudioman]

never ever ever. the struggles is real. I've got two grown kids, one with a kid, so I'm a grandpa. Then a 9 and a 5 year old.

[@Gadgetdad007]

@@cheapaudioman sounds like you’ve upgraded somewhere along the way 😂

[@analogidc1394]

I don't think I've ever had this much fun listening to someone talk about speakers. Keep up the great work!

[@cheapaudioman]

Glad you enjoyed it! I had a fun time making it! Didn't know if it was too over the top though

[@analogidc1394]

@@cheapaudioman It's not over the top in my opinion, in fact it's quite refreshing. Your sense of humor and practical advice sets your channel apart from most of the others in this category.

[@michealboudreaux]

I am so glad I found your channel, Randy. I feel lost in the hi-fi world totally, but I love music, and I feel like I'm learning a ton, and the way you present info and yourself just...speaks to my inner old man soul (despite being a spry 32).

[@adamant3844]

Hey Randy, thanks for reiterating the fact that "if it ain't broke don't fix it' applies to hi-fi too. I still have a pair of two way Studio lab floorstanders purchased in 1982 from the factory. I use them as fronts for my HT system.

[@socool8860]

Sounds like you were talking directly to me about reasons not to buy new speakers. Love your videos they are addictive , fun and informative. Thanks

[@shaunmac7143]

Humour and wisdom pair so well together… thanks for being such great normal person 😉😎🇨🇦

[@cheapaudioman]

Thank you kindly

[@richardziegler5804]

if you ever get tired of being the cheapaudioman there's a career in comedy waiting for you. LOL This video is one of your funniest to date!

[@cheapaudioman]

ha. well thanks

[@shipsahoy1793]

@@cheapaudioman I think he may be onto something Randy.. you have a likable comedic personality actually.. it’s a good thing, not a negative..

[@crazydwarfer]

Same here, good standup comedy here, the only one in the audio community :)

[@Stan_the_Belgian]

Would be nice to see him do some more collaborations, would expand his subscribers

[@ahuesphoto]

I agree, love the jokes! Two thumbs up!!

[@LarcR]

I'm still using a pair of Polk Monitor 10 speakers (30Hz - 20.5kHz +/- 2dB) as my mains that I bought in 1979. They are great in my 15' x 12' listening area. Anything new that would sound substantially better would probably be too rich for my pocketbook. The $600 I paid for the 10s in 1979 is equivalent to almost $2,448 today. I enjoy pipe organ recordings, so am thinking of adding a subwoofer that can be felt down to 16Hz (lowest note on a 32' organ stop).

[@spamcan9208]

Cathedral organs are so bad ass. I've always wanted to listen/feel one play in person. What pieces actually utilize subsonic notes? Any favorites you recommend? I only know of Toccata and Fugue, never branched out from there yet but I only just got into hifi.

[@bluesfish55m51]

I know what you mean. Bought my SDA 2Bs new in ‘85 ($1200) and still love em. Those Monitor 10s are classics.

[@jonuiuc]

I had the same small mirage omnisats for 14 years, when covid hit and I spent more time at home, I decided to buy my dream speakers. I always wanted magnepans, but since my room is wide instead of deep, and the maggies were huge and pulling them away from the wall wasn't going to work, I reconsidered. I looked into Ohms, but had omnidirectionals for so long, I sort of yearned for three ways. After coming up with a lot of different requirements I ended up with the KLH model 5s. I will probably keep these at least ten years if not forever. Now that old Mirage subwoofer... lol there is always more to change.

[@paulpavlou9294]

Good one Randy, I’m not upgrading to the three way as I love my wife. But I do like having different speakers for there difference flavours/sound and different types of music. Good speakers are always going to sound good if there is equally good components and a good source behind them. Keep up the good work.

[@adamcanterbury]

My new favorite CAM video...that "3way" punchline had me rollin'...keep up the good work....you're awesome Sir...

[@chriswilliams-tz4in]

Thanks a lot, I took the grills off my speakers, only to find the foam surrounds had mostly gone! Well they are over 30 years old !Now I`ve got to fix them!

[@martinfox2244]

Take those bookshelves off the shelf and set them up on stands. Places such as PS Audio on KZbin tell you how. Bingo! New speakers.

[@isladorw443]

Hey Randy, I found your channel about a year ago, kept watching because your sense of humor (and we share the Never Again Volunteer Yourself veteran status--although I did the flightdeck while you did the bubblehead thing). I picked up the Cambridge Audio DacMagic 200M on your recommendation and decided your opinion was solid. Since then I have picked up the Yamaha A-S701 amp and a set of Wharfedale EVO 4.1's. Holy crap dude, you were so right about the sound stage and vocals through a better set of equipment. Myles Kennedy's vocals through the 4.1's is an absolute eargasm. Thanks for all your hard work and keep injecting your sense of humor into the hobby--it's a breath of fresh air to all the dry tech jargon out there.

[@318ishonk]

When somebody experiences general listening fatigue then I also recommend trying out music you never heard before. Fort that, streaming services are really great. Makes listening to music interesting again.

[@preiter20]

I have a pair of 40 year old Vandersteen Model 2 speakers. Bought used for $350. Pretty happy with them so far.

[@brianlewis5042]

Randy the wandering eye /three way comment was epic. Could not stop laughing. Great advice and keep doing your thing. But it’s Sunday and binge watching Football 🏈 is number one for the day.

[@1mctous]

Would you settle for a 2 1/2 way?😉

[@cheapaudioman]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@raulgarcia1718]

I bought a set of Boston acoustic micro 80’s back in 99. Five years later I went back to the store with the upgrade itch and the salesman actually told me to hold onto them a little longer. Last year I upgraded to an RSL cg5 3.1 setup.l but I kept the bostons for surrounds and heights

[@annebokma4637]

That is a true salesman. Rather have a satisfied customer come back over time, then do a quick sake and risk the customer never coming back

[@MichelLinschoten]

I have the very rare Boston acoustics the lynnfield 500l I went from magnepan back to the 500l with 0 regrets.

[@jonathansturm4163]

I’m comfortably retired and even though I’ve been happy with my VAF DC-X transmission line speakers since purchasing them in 2000, I decided to purchase a pair of DC-X Mk 6. The only difference I can detect is that the older version has two very minor suckouts in the lower bass. Detection was via a frequency sweep. I can’t hear any difference whatsoever listening to music! Fortunately VAF speakers only rarely come onto the second-hand market so I’ll be selling the old speakers for $AU1,200. The new version cost $AU3,750. So it goes...

[@pauldavies8638]

I still use my acoustic research ar10 they are superb I find using a wide range graphic equaliser is the answer.

[@wal]

The “it’s a great deal!” gets me every time! Great video 👍

[@z3r0w1ng]

Super fun video Randy and really kind of spot on. I fell into both sides of this argument. I had tower speakers that were now in my office as my listening room was overtaken by kids toys and playtime. They really punched above what that small office room can handle and the quality of the soundstage suffered immensely. I needed new smaller bookshelf speakers for this office, but I had no budget (reason NOT TO BUY new). Fortunately, I hit up FB marketplace and snagged 4 NIB Pioneer SP-BS41-LR's for $75. I know they are 11 years old, but they were brand new in the box as the guy who sold them had never used them for his second A/V room. He thought he was selling SP-BS21-LR's, but when I saw them on pickup, I just shut my mouth and loaded the boxes up. They sound insanely good in my small office. So thank you for all your videos, you are the best audio youtuber out there in my book.

[@spamcan9208]

Wait, are those what I think they are? And brand friggin new in the box?! You lucky SOB

[@z3r0w1ng]

@@spamcan9208 I guess they are what you think. The Andrew Jones ones with the 6 element crossover. And I was wrong about the age, they are 12 years old...lol. Back in their day they were considered the Giant Killers. I actually thought I was buying SP-BS21-LR's (still a good deal at $75) the smaller brother to the 41's, but when I picked them up they were 41's. So yea, it was an insanely good deal.

[@jeffreygorey5540]

I've been listening to same Marantz receiver, Advent speaker setup since the late 80's. still sound fantastic to my ears.

[@cheapaudioman]

nice

[@rolandcyr5747]

Glad I came across this video. I've been sick for a new pair of speakers for absolutely no reason other than boredom... and, of course, from watching some of your videos comparing bookshelf speakers. You just saved me a few hundred bucks 🤣🤣. Thanks Randy!

[@bryceburgart8544]

Why folks only watch the first part of your videos: I guess lots of people like to hear you tell them to sit down and grab a cup of coffee. (I’m grabbing one right now) But seriously… there is so much good info in this video, this is one we should all watch right to the end.

[@pedrofernandez8729]

I bought a pair of Emotiva B1 based on your reviews and hooked them to my vintage Marantz that sat in a closet for decades, now the old receiver sounds tons better than when I used the Marantz speakers that came with it. No need to spend a grand.

[@cheapaudioman]

Glad you like them!

[@anthonysherry2628]

Hi Randy, i just sat down with a cup of tea. I have a pair of Castle Knight 4's, they are out of business now. British build.I bought them 2nd hand, and i am very happy with them. I have a Rotel RCD 1572, built in dac, a T+A Cala amplifier, 35 watts into 8 ohms. Small room you see, it also has a built in dac. The system sounded great. But its even better now, because i bought a TEAC UD - 301 dac 2nd hand. I bypass both inbuilt dacs on amp and cd. I also got a FX Audio x6 mk 11, that i use for playing music from my tablet via usb cable, i dont like blue tooth, but it has that function. That dac is quite good. Same chip as the topping d90se. My point is instead of buying new speakers, try upgrading components as you can afford them, not necessarily expensive stuff.

[@genieweaver782]

I'm retired and I've always wanted a pair of Meadowlark speakers. I first heard this brand back in 1995 and I was blown away. Meadowlark went out if business back in 2004 or 2005. Flash forward to 2022, I saw a pair of Meadowlark E series floor standing speakers with the matching center channel for a great price. I bought them and was more than happy with the sound but these were part of a 5.1 system and I really wanted to complete the set with the matching bookshelf speakers. In September 2022 I was able to buy the matching bookshelf speakers and complete the set. The best thing about this speaker quest was these Meadowlark E sieres Eagles were the original set of speakers presented by the Meadowlark speaker manufacturer at the Montreal Audio show in 2004. These are the prototype speakers they showed in Montreal. Thanks Randy for your continued support to those of us who won't settle for the status quo.

[@fearthechin]

"I can barely read"... Loved the Beanie from Old School reference! It did not go unnoticed.

[@mrgoodbar1975]

I moved in to a new house a month ago. My 1980 JBL 4311B speakers have served me well and will still be used but a new pair of Emotive B2+ and B1+ just showed up today. I really enjoyed your reviews of these speakers and laughed when I saw this video.

[@nunyabusiness3612]

A man of our times and of us the people. Randy, thank you, a funny, and realistic treatise on being smart with money while still enjoying the heck out of this hobby ♥

[@tmyalt]

Oh man, this video was just gold, I was laughing to tears. Needless to say I'm subbed and have been for a while now, keep up the shenanigans, your channel is so much fun!

[@OberDesiah]

I did an upgrade, just because of the upgrade, and now I am regretting it. I had a pair of Dynaudio Xeo 5; I was happy with them for years. Then I saw a great deal on Xeo 6. From what I've been reading on the internet, they were "fixing some of the shortcomings" with the albeit already good Xeo 5. They "sounded more correct", the soundstage was more "organized", though some reported that the soundstage is more "put to the back" with the Xeo 6 vs the Xeo 5. The new HUB(they are wireless, active speakers) also had an additional digital input, which I actually needed). I had one last night with my Xeo 5s before selling. I was crying, laughing; they sounded better than ever; I remembered why I liked them in the first place. They entertained me, they had a very deep bass for their size(the Xeo 6s are smaller), they had a weird ability to fill my whole living room with warm sound, they were astute allrounders even though not being Dynaudio's most precise moment. I sold the Xeo 5 for basically same price as my new purchase; all good. But now I just can't make it work with my new Xeo 6s. I am moving them around in desperation; I am not sure what is wrong. I can clearly hear the bass is a bit more correct(but not as deep and room filling), the soundstage has a better grip etc. But they sound "smaller", less entertaining. Don't get me wrong, the Xeo 6s are sonic masters, and there is nothing wrong with them. But I am not getting the point of the upgrade. I didn't have to jerk around with my older pair. Maybe they were just simpler, and simpler to own. I don't know, really. It is frustrating:) The older ones even looked better, at least with the speaker grills on. Which are not magnetically attached as with the newer, but they were taller, slimmer and looked like a pair of tall, well dressed waiters to me. A proud look. The new ones looks funny, with their grey and silly grill and a funny hat on top(a clamped on interface box I don't really need).

[@williambiggar1054]

Randy, your best video yet. I’m retired 30 speakers in still looking, three ways are best, Will

[@djstevev6793]

When it comes to both everyday casual as well as audiophile listening...When it comes to tone, detail and especially texture and just plain musicality...Wharfedale Diamond Towers are simply very hard to beat! Thanks for keeping it real!

[@stanoneil7053]

Good advise, I have some worfdail from the 1960 still word well.

[@lgude]

“Incarnated” cracked me up by reminding me things can always be worse - gave me shot of gratitude right in the brain stem.

[@dancorsolini4340]

Great video, soooo FUN...NY! You have really made these enjoyable, keep up the good work!

[@francescotenti193]

Yes, I know a thing or two about being college tuition "poor" and that does not involve hifi gear only. What I consider my "new car" is a 12 year old Grand Cherokee with 185,000 miles. 5 more tuition checks, for my 3rd kid, and that will free up a lot of money for a new car and a bunch of other stuff including but not limited to a McIntosh amp. Nice video, Mr. Randy with a lot of real life situations and not just nonsensical "audiophile" bs.

[@victoriaq5157]

Same main speakers since 1977. So good that I do not go looking to replace them. SpeakerLab Khorns with updated enclosures and crossovers. Nearly perfect.

[@westcoast708]

I'm really thinking of buying the kef wireless ls50 I heard them and honestly I was blown away pair of these and your done ...

[@williamgran509]

Hey Randy, love your channel, been watching for a long while , Just getting back in hi-fi stuff and I picked up the Ayima T-9 and a pair of Sony SS-CS5 speakers, all for around $300 after seeing your reviews. It sounds really good , I’m hooked again 😀😀

[@crisjr6478]

Great affordable combo

[@cheapaudioman]

Rock on!

[@gojiragunplagramps936]

Amazon has the jamo s809 towers for $279 a pair right now. Just picked up a pair to replace my 35yr old Yamaha towers. The Yamahas will be going to my daughter. She can’t wait for my Jamos to arrive.

[@Lighthouse3D]

Funniest thing I learned when watching your videos was that for almost 3 years I had the Polk S15's and Klipsch R-51m's as my 7.2 home theater system, and seeing you say you don't like them, that's what's making me sell them and try to get those Sony's you highly recommend lol

[@ChrisHuff12Stone]

I’m rolling on the floor for reason #2 (relationship). I’m on year 45 with my cherished Cerwin Vega speakers! Do I really have to part with them? Love your channel!

[@spooner1]

Randy my friend, I have always said that when I retire and am debt free I am going to purchase a pair of speakers that I was never able to afford being employed and raising a family. Well that time has passed 8 years now. I purchased a modest pair and found golfing, baci ball and horseshoe pitching in the fresh air to be more fun. Sometimes life throws you a curve ball. Happy trails.

[@mikeinmontana8875]

OK, we have watched a lot of your videos that just seem to pop up in our KZbin TV ap. This one did it. We subscribed, liked and will keep track. My wife and I both got a kick out of this.🤣 And out of an audio channel too! Awesome. By the way, we have been using our Klipsch ChorusII's, Academy center, and surround KG2.5's, an HSU Sub in front and a klipsch sub in rear beginning in 1996 with the front 4. All are still like new in looks and performance.. The only speaker we ever thought about trying out or buying are the La Scala's. But man are those expensive these days. Build back better👍😛 We do love our system and have no plans on changing anything. Thank you Randy. A good laugh is needed this last couple years. All the best to you and yours. 👌

[@OscarSanchez-tk3hx]

Brother thanks for sharing this video I'm 65 yrs my dream speakers are the Klipsch Forte IV should i go for it

[@rehn1kri]

Randy! This was awesome. I’m sure you probably aren’t interested in video ideas, but I was just thinking of something I’d love to see you do. “Is speaker break-in a thing?” I know you’re always buying new SS-CS5s when they go on sale. Compare your older broken-in pair to a new pair and see what the differences are. Controversial! Thanks for the great videos.

[@StevieInMTL]

Been binging on your videos (love them!) and I’m noticing that KZbin is forcing more ads than other vids on other audio guys I watch (Darko) and those would usually have like max 1 add if even. Conspiracy or am I nuts? Thanks. I’ll be here with my tinfoil hat. 😊

[@rafacq]

I bought 5 NHT Superzero speakers in 1996 (maybe it was 1997 but who’s counting). I also bought an NHT SW-3 sub. The next year I replaced my front left, center, and right speakers with 2 new NHT 1.1 and a 1.1C. I still have the NHTs and think highly of them. In December 2020 I decided I wanted to replace my FL & FR NHT 1.1s with bigger preferably tower speakers that I could still use for movies but I could also enjoy for music listening without my NHT Sub on. After some research I bought a pair of Klipsch RP-8000F and really love them. The old NHT 1.1 are now in my home office/studio where they still continue to impress me after so many years. I still LOVE using the NHT Superzeroes as my surrounds and after trying the Klipsch RP-600C center speaker, I found I prefer the old NHT 1.1C for my center channel speaker. Both my wife and I like movies dialog better on the NHT 1.1C than the Klipsch. But the Klipsch RP-8000F towers are impressive, both for home theater or simply listening to stereo music Thanks for the entertaining and informative videos.

[@ripjones5294]

Three-Way......I'm gasping for air. I'm looking for the Jumper Cables to restart my 67 year-old ticker.....You are having way too much fun on this one.....

[@ujean56]

Thank goodness for the good folks at Sith Audio.

[@TheZacharySutliff]

This video is the epitome of why I love this channel. Thanks for the info and laughs!

[@cheapaudioman]

thanks, man. That's very kind of you

[@greganderson1681]

Ha! Yep, oh yep. You nailed my situation, CAM. Old empty nesters (nope, kids aren’t in prison) and close to retirement. Still pullin’ that paycheck! So what to do? Heck, buy some Maggies, an awesome amp, a fantastic turntable setup, and a bunch of new tunes to listen to. Still got my antique Advent Baby 2s for “other purposes” and various old stuff stashed around the house crankin’ the tunage - all fully functional and thoroughly cheap! For the most part. Life is good! Excellent well informed choices, partially thanks to you! Don’t regret a thing. Yep. Oh yep.

[@insurrectionindustries1706]

Oh man, this may be my favorite episode ever! And I’ve been watching since almost the start. Great stuff all around

[@Simon_Hawkshaw]

I did on your advice and have my end-of-all (honeymoon) bookshelf speakers, for now 😂. Thank you as always for your great advice and time to share. I too was forever changed by Jethro Tull - Aqualung, am retired, and am now tapped out (broke by listening to 'the best ever' speaker reviews) as far as audiophile purchases are concerned until I can save up again on my pension, but am binge listening and filling my soul with happiness, till then. Thank you, Sir!

[@brysnerdery]

"Maybe a 3 way!" 😆 That was the funniest double entendre I've ever heard! 👏 Bravo! That really made me laugh out loud! Good one, Randy!

[@doplinger1]

Good advice, but I am finding myself in a situation right now. I bought the Sony SS-CS5s a while back on your recommendation (got a great deal, $80) and they just sounded "meh" to me. Now part of that could be the room and acoustics being off, it could be that my advanced age hearing just isn't so good anymore, or any other number of things. I added a subwoofer (another good deal from Klipsch, refurb for $150) and it made all the difference in the world! Ultimately I would like to own the Forte IVs, but that could be a long way out. I just bought a pair of Klipsch R-41Ms to update and replace the Sony's a bit (again, another "great deal" at $114.00 for the pair. I don't really want to play the game of incremental updates and I promise I will stop until I can afford those Forte's, or maybe a good deal on some Dahlquist DQ-10s, another speaker I have always lusted for. Maybe I should go for a 3-way? 😄😄

[@ahuesphoto]

Hi, I recommend you look at your system as a whole and make a list of possible upgrades: Amp, DAC, Preamp, maybe Tubes, sources (Bluetooth, Network Streamer, Blu-ray/SACD player), cables, etc. Once you have speakers you like you can build a system around them. If you like tinkering with the equipment this is a lot of fun.

[@doplinger1]

@@ahuesphoto I do enjoy tinkering, but my budget doesn’t appreciate the liberties I might take!😆 I have no interest in streaming really, I just want to play my CDs or mp3s from my sources, and some occasional vinyl. After some more research, I decided against the Klipsch R41m because I don’t feel it would be an upgrade to what I have already. I looked at the Jamo S803, but ended up ordering the Jamo s809s for well under $300. I use a vintage Yamaha CR-600 receiver usually, but I have a nice powerful Denon connected to the TV that I can switch to as well. I’m not sure what other equipment I will consider next - I’d like a dedicated MP3 player unit, but for anything decent it looks like it would run $1500! Maybe there’s a unit for a lot less that I can just attach my own hard drive to (or USB stick)?

[@shipsahoy1793]

Randy, this was a great video about buying speakers. Don’t ever choke your style to be PC on here. Your candor, humor, and content are refreshing. 👏Keep up the good work, and don’t worry about the idiots that just don’t get it..👨🏻✌️

[@cheapaudioman]

thanks, Ships Ahoy!

[@shipsahoy1793]

@@cheapaudioman 🙂👍Gary👨🏻

[@spamcan9208]

Who was complaining? His jokes have never struck me as politically incorrect. At worst he has the occasional mildly risqué joke but that's about it. He doesn't even swear, save for rarely correctly pronouncing a certain well known audio company's name.

[@BryanRuby]

A funny thing happened to me on the way to watching this video....my tweeter died on my 20+ year old Athena Technologies AS-F2 tower speakers. I really like these speakers though and I may look at replacing the tweeter first before looking into buying whole new speakers.

[@tmdillon1969]

I have a pair of Mirage 490is I bought back in 96. They've never sounded as good as they did in the apartment I lived in at the time. I think it has something to do with plaster walls and 70-year-old hardwood floors. The socks are very rough thanks to the cats and getting original replacement parts for Mirage after Harmon ran the into the ground is impossible. I'm thinking I'm going to build one of the DIY kits you recommend. And you have a great point regarding "great deals". A pair of Thiel 3.5CS just popped up an hour away and I've always wanted them but I'd also have to spend quite a bit of money getting an amp to drive them. Not much of a deal if I have to go shopping for even more stuff to make a set work correctly.

[@tlinrin887]

The sith audio level is worth every dime. I found it worked best when I use it on my phono preamp, once I got it leveled it took my sound quality up another level.

[@cheapaudioman]

great advice

[@mr.george7687]

Started w/ JBL L100's in the 70"s moved on to Vendersteen's in the 80's then Magnepans, bought JBL 4312's in 2000. Perfectly happy w/ no intention of buying any other speakers.

[@Pepe-dq2ib]

Try the Emotiva B1's he recommended, youll be surprised. They sound better than $5000 speakers and i ended up giving away my old ancient jbl 4345 for the Emotivas.

[@gregbartley2475]

Hey honey, I’m going to go check out a 3 way. Might even bring it home to try it out, okay? Seriously good advice there. I sometimes get super busy and spend a few or more days without having time to listen to my system. When I do, I’m reminded of just how much I like it.

[@paulgibson3259]

Wow, you mentioned ProAc, I’m impressed.

[@rnomarcuzee8217]

This was fun. Told wife Randy says I may need to look at a 3 way. Head shake. Thanks.

[@Nightowl80]

Brilliant!! Who knew that either existed!

[@williampearce5932]

Your honesty is refreshing. I am glad I found you. thanks for the down to earth reviews and discussions.

[@cheapaudioman]

You are so welcome!

[@jerrybandy3827]

I was just thinking about this yesterday. I have JBL 4311B speakers that I bought in 1980 and was wondering if I should replace them or have them refurbished. And yes, I laughed at the 3-way.

[@thomasarmbruster1743]

Almost pulled the trigger on the Klipsch sub. before I figured out that the Emotiva (at $150 less) would suit my needs even better. Thanks for both reviews.

[@Superman54]

the 3 way speaker joke.....is fantastic legit. bravo

[@unclevinnie8193]

Gotta love it. Thanks Randy!

[@annebokma4637]

My speakers were great when they came out, iconic still. So 60+ years later they are still great and with some luck a steal 2nd hand. Quad esl57, going strong 😉

[@1mctous]

Everyone knows its bass and dynamic limitations but that electrostatic midrange is still hard to beat.

[@annebokma4637]

@@1mctous that's why you see them combined with super tweeters and open baffle bass. I enjoy them on their own, plenty good for me. Maybe I will start experimenting in the future, but this set is in my end game for sure

[@charlier7711]

Thanks for another fantastic, informative... and hilarious video!

[@brunohebert1351]

I love how you didn't cut the stumbles. It was great and refreshing. I am very happy with my old Boston Acoustics A150, got them for a good price and they were refoamed. And then I sold my pair of BA A100 for nearly the same price. And I got those cheap. Now, I'm hoping to get my hands on a pair of BA A200 especially after discovering that The University of Vinyl (nice channel BTW) is using those. I'm quite curious because they look quite smaller and thinner than the A150. They have a great bass response even though I use them with a sub. At the same time, I agree with your point "It's a great deal", I also sometimes get speakers like that because I have never heard them before so it's a way to get to know the manufacturer signature sound. Not so long ago I found a pair of Klipsch KG 3.2 and I have never heard Klipsches before so it was an awesome deal ($20), I couldn't pass on the opportunity to get a taste of the Klipsch sound everyone is talking about. And it was not great on my main system. But it was amazing on my secondary system (powered by a small Marantz receiver). In the ned I sold them but it's ok I was able to sample the sound. I like to do that to. If I were to get full price brand new speakers from a company that would cost me much more especially if you end up not liking it or if it doesn't fit well with your system. Now, I must admit the Zu dirty weekend are really tempting me but I think it will be for later when we move to a different house where I can have a proper "music room" (right now, it's my garage, I know but you got to make compromises with your better half, right?)

[@GPSRider]

Randy, I don't get your problem with three ways. My relationship (with music) was tanking. I started looking around. I found a very nice three-way speaker. I showed a picture of the three-way speaker to my wife, and she thought it looked great, too! We decided to buy one. We liked it so much, we got a second three-way speaker. We have found that when we use both three ways together, it really works well! It has really reinvigorated our relationship (with music)! I think you should reevaluate your posture on three ways!

[@richardwestmoreland4796]

I'm guessing that Randy could very well be snickering, giggling,or whatever you want to call it reading your comment about 3-ways. If you read my comment to Randy regarding his laughter and 3-ways you will have a better understanding about what I'm talking about.

[@cheapaudioman]

I almost edited that part out but it was too funny

[@welderfixer]

@@cheapaudioman Glad you didn't cut it out!! I needed the laugh this morning.

[@DestroyerPictures278]

I managed to pickup a pair of JBL L890's and a Sunfire sub at cost when I was younger. I hope to not replace them for a while.

[@weekenddistractions]

In 2020, I replaced my 35 yr old speakers. I gave the old ones to my son who loves them--so they still live on. New ones are the Tektron Pendragons, and I couldn't be happier. I suppose I'll die with these speakers--they don't vex me!

[@Link-vv4sb]

"maybe a three way".....that comment and the sound of you chuckling made my pause my workout and lol

[@Kratos41277]

This has been one of my favorite videos so far!!! I’ve always been sort meh with my Pioneer Elite Andrew Jones towers. I read good reviews and got a GREAT deal on them. Right now I feel stuck with them…..but you know, 4 kids. 🤦🏻 I’m stuck with them too. 😆

[@danielh12345]

Had a lot of fun with this one, thanks! Also, love that shirt!

[@Harry-Giles]

Dude, loved this. Keep them coming. Appreciate you.

[@howardbarbakoff4108]

Really enjoy your channel. Your videos are an island of rationality and reason (well...about as rational and reasonable it gets when dealing with audio equipment). Anyway, I have a pair of Polk Monitor 5A's that I bought new in the very early 80's (made in good old Baltimore MD). The 5A's have served me very well for the last 40 years but I think their time as the front speakers of my 5.1 rig may be nearing. The 5A's still work but the last few times I have listened to 2 channel stereo music via CD they just are starting to sound like they have lost something. The old punch is not there and the formally clear and sparkling high end has become a bit harsh and fatiguing. Some would say "rebuild those crossovers, throw in a pair of repro Peerless tweeters, put Dynamat in the cabs and bring them back to glory". I think I will let my faithful 40 year old Polk 5A's bow out gracefully and shop for a new pair of speakers. Plus, having an excuse to buy new stuff is fun.😊

[@danstein2467]

Randy, speakers in my head? That explains so much!

[@KillerKlipsch]

I get this feeling every month or so and now I have 40 speakers and no regrets.

[@Boundless2k10]

the threeway joke killed me haha

[@cheapaudioman]

it killed me too

[@flynow5614]

Still waiting for a video that can show which power cord for my record cleaning machine is the best sounding. I think I need all copper wire.

[@cheapaudioman]

good thinking

[@gavinwagner1766]

Great vid Randy. Very entertaining!

[@deadscene1]

Were looking for a new speakers and got on this channel before few days , already sub , and i still don't know what active speakers under 1k to get ;d klipsch the fives on my radar cuz of the hdmi arc port , anyway really cool videos 🤟

[@Chiroman527]

Randy, the chaepaudioman, funny as usual, sardonic, dry humor goes a long way to entertain and allow me to watch the entire video. I have KEF 104/2s Tower speakers connected to a NAD 1300 & NAD 2600 Preamp /Amp Stack since 1987 in my LR. After 35 years, they sound dynamic to me. They don't fatigue at all. Of Course, with certain older LPs and even CDs, I do adjust the Bass and/or the Treble controls. I have an older BSR Equlaizer which I used for a short period, but not hooked up now. For a newer heir sound different system created in my finished basement (COVID period induced ) "man cave", I purchased a few Schiit products : Mani, SAGA & a LOKI . The LOKI is the perfect, easy 4 Band Equalizer with a 10 db booster to the sound. I would recommend to listeners who want an Upgrade to their sound, look into a LOKI. With a 15 Day Money back Guarantee (I don't know about the shipping costs ?), if that LOKI doesn't get you to where you want for the sound form your current speakers, then return it , bite the Bullit and commence the Speaker shopping. Currently, I am researching the idea to buy an add'l AMP to the LR system and add a pair of quality Bookshelf speakers ( KEF Q350s which I own already and use in the man cave). I am entertaining either a refurbished Emotiva A300 or a IOTA PA3 to the system. The current NAD stack can't handle les that a 4 Ohm load (the KEF 104s are 4 Ohm speakers) I would need the extra Amp to drive the add'l speakers. I may just try a LOKI there too! Happy Music to All.

[@chashint1]

I bought Klipsch RF83’s along with a RC62, RS4?’s and an Outlaw LFM EX in 2010. I am still very satisfied with this setup. Now I want to get a bigger TV and the only way to fit it into the space is to give up the RF83’s and replace them with bookshelf speakers. I am trying to go with the “it’s time to get new stuff” theory, but when I have auditioned bookshelf speakers I just don’t hear anything I really like below the $1500/pr price point and I think I would need a new center channel to go with them which would tack on over $1k. I am retired and have the money to do whatever I want, but in so many ways it just feels like a waste to be replacing speakers I like not to mention going from the towers to bookshelf’s being a step backwards in my mind. Of late I have been thinking about just getting a pair of the RP600M that are on clearance for

[@michaelborza734]

Reasons not to...OMG! you got me laughing, to an all out guttural roar after watching you laugh at yourself. Keeping it real keeps me coming back here.

[@callmesceptical9114]

Been getting by with point source speaker for sometime now. Must admit that recently, I’ve been itching for a warm 2-way with nice bump at the low end. Shopping around has been fun, nevertheless, it might be time to make a purchase. I’ll put new in a different room, but keep point source as backup 😎

[@kingkong-my5po]

three way ...... nice one Randy... you got me good there.....

[@Chris-yq7xv]

I loved my RB-61 with the RSW-10d and was very happy. But after watching a slew of videos that talked about how great the RP-600m was I went out and purchased them - now I’m not so happy😢!

[@d.r.martin6301]

Naw. A year ago I had the guy who built my speakers for me 40 years ago put new surrounds on them. Oak veneer two-ways that that still sound great to me. And my secondary pair-in the living room with the flatscreen-bought direct from the guy who designed them (I'd done some work for him), sold them under his own Soundmates brand, then sold the design to Koss. Don Kliewer, of DLK fame. They do the job, so they're going nowhere.

[@tubefreeeasy]

I just ordered a White Kanto Tuk. Please review one some day.

[@tubefreeeasy]

You, just killin’ me man!

[@RUMBLEGO1]

I treated myself to some brand new (to me) Polk Monitor 7c's. Bought them used locally from a guy that had recapped and air sealed them and he also put in a better Polk tweeter. They were made in around 1990 something and Mathew Polk was quoted that he thought they were his best sounding speaker at the time. I paid $175 for them and they sound absolutely glorious! I actually have them on the floor with a 5lb dumbbell underneath each to angle them up to my sitting position. Also using a sub. Just phenomenal. You DO NOT need to buy new and break the bank. Poke around cause there are GREAT deals to be had on used gear. $175....can't believe how good they sound for that. It's actually ridiculous. I'm 63 and have heard some some very good expensive speakers. These sound perfect to me. Keep thinking i want to try one of the newer Polk offerings but then i listen to these and say to myself...."why?"

[@JukeboxAlley]

Agreed, the monitor 7 is pretty tough to find these days and a very very good speaker, and would be tough to beat with alot of modern things of it's size.

[@RUMBLEGO1]

@@JukeboxAlley When I see the newer offerings from KLH(5's) and ones from Wharfedale (Dentons). The ones's that are boxy and look a lot like the Polk Monitor 7's. Especially the KLH in that regard. I bet the older Polks would give them a run for the money if not even outperform them. That being said, would like to hear them but won't be purchasing them to do so that is for sure!

[@RUMBLEGO1]

Also wanted to add that i also own the Polk Monitor 5jr's. Smaller than the Monitor 7's but just incredible sound nonetheless. They are more plentiful used and can be found for under $200. They probably will need some capacitors (built in 1984) replaced and also some glue applied around the magnets so the woofer's magnets don't shift. But that is a small amount of cost and effort for some down right incredible sounding bookshelves. I was listening to Yes's Fragile album through those last year and i haven't heard that album sound so good in soooo long. They just reproduced it so well. Won't be selling either of those sets anytime soon as long as my health holds up and don't need the cash immediately.

[@JukeboxAlley]

@@RUMBLEGO1 that's true, never sleep on any polks, especially the sda models. Great bang for the buck, and yes for any of you vintage Polk owners, use some epoxy or similar around where the magnet attaches to the frame, because they can shift and lock up the woofers due to the age of the glue, it happens to alot of them.