How to choose the next HiFi purchase

[@jansjoblad2361]

I understood what you said about an old Yamaha reciver. I searched for several years for a really good music broker. The choice fell easily on the Yamaha AS-2200. The Yamaha Premium series deserves praise.

[@birgerolovsson5203]

Yamaha is fantastic! I have a Yamaha CDX-1060 CD-player from 1992 that still works as if it was brand new after 32 years. I've had many Yamaha-things from 1987 until today and all of them works and have worked just perfect.

[@geoff37s38]

Don’t knock Yamaha, they make excellent products. You may be disappointed if you replace your old Yamaha with an expensive amplifier.

[@RogierYou]

Yamaha does make some very nice amps.

[@joejoejoejoejoejoe4391]

And CD players.

[@macka46]

I agree, and affordable

[@hippydippy]

Yea. That was an unneeded dig for sure.

[@Cpt.Zer0]

Yamaha RX aXa series are some of the best atmos receivers around. (More expensive build than the entry rx-v series). The Rx a6a I have now is the best amp I ever had, better than many mid range "hi-fi" brands.

[@volpedo2000]

Yamaha makes good products. Their NS series sounds great and I love the minimalist yet refined looks. Something I cannot say of some more “HiEnd” brands with their pedestrian looks.

[@cunawarit]

Yamaha also possesses an unparalleled level of engineering expertise that sets it apart from any "high-end" audio brand. Their mastery spans the entire spectrum of audio and music equipment, from crafting grand pianos and electric guitars to producing cutting-edge studio gear. Unlike boutique luxury audio brands, Yamaha operates in an entirely different league, combining a deep heritage in music with innovative engineering across diverse product categories.

[@jos5067]

@@cunawarit Well said!!

[@fsmoura]

This is an audiophile crowd, pal, we don't buy anything for its "looks" - we buy to dazzle other audiophiles with the price tag. ( oДo)📈

[@zizendorf]

Then why is Paul suggesting that the main culprit in need of change is the Yamaha receiver?

[@jos5067]

@@zizendorfBecause of age, I think 🤔, but in a way that’s is not very flattering for such a highly respected brand.

[@edd2771]

Paul is clearly unaware of Yamahas high end integrateds and power amps.

[@jos5067]

Of course he is; he is speaking about a 15 year old product. So he’s talking about age, and a receiver is most times not a very good amplifier.

[@grymkaft]

​@@jos50671:21

[@edd2771]

@ perhaps you missed the part where he said “I hate to tell you but a month-old Yamaha receiver ain’t t very good” Now to be fair, Yamaha does make a couple budget friendly receivers under $300 and you get what you pay for (although I’m sure either would blow away the insanely priced $800 PS audio sprout). But receiver and integrated amplifier are becoming somewhat interchangeable terms, and Yamahas A-S3200 integrated at $8k is a far better value/performance tradeoff than anything PS Audio makes. Witness at the moment how PS Audio are selling close out models at 50% off as they do every year. That tells you there is still profit for them in those units at half price. You’ll never see higher end Yamaha gear discounted this way.

[@jos5067]

@@edd2771Yes, I missed that part and so I agree with you for 100 procent!!!! Paul should not say that, imo!!

[@joeythedime1838]

@@edd2771 Yes, the A-S3200 is a very nice product, I demo'ed one but decided on an Accuphase E-4000. To your point higher end Yamaha gear is readily discounted and you can purchase the A-S3200 for about $5k from authorized dealers, you just need to make some calls.

[@tomw7043]

I have a Yamaha A-S3200 Integrated Amplifier at the heart of my system. This is an amazing-sounding amp. Granted, Yamaha does have some budget Home theater receivers that won't compare to critical listening stereo amps, but they also have high-end products. Paul does not seem to be aware of this.

[@paulburke9198]

Mm! he probably is , his remark was about an old amp , (like mine ) I have a less expensive "old" Yamaha, and it's probably the weak spot in my system. "Very frustration", lol . that'll be my next major fix trying to decide b'tween stereo or full on s'round . But jeez Mr Paul , you've got a few pissed of punters going nuts now , lol.

[@garysmith8455]

@tomw7043 - Paul is unaware of a lot of things. I have been watching his presentations for a number of years, and well, he is pretty much doing his thing mostly in the world of PS Audio as he should. However, sometimes he does let in on his ignorance of other brands and their products which sometimes baffles me!🙄

[@thegrimyeaper]

My Yamaha RX-A2A beats any receiver I've ever heard for the last 30 years. Take it back, Paul. Take it back!

[@mikrophonie5633]

Paul McClown, you're my hero. And I really love your company BS Audio.

[@familyng7223]

😮 what's means BS Audio? His company name not PS Audio?

[@mwaikibaki8227]

Lmao

[@richarddeluen5973]

Yamaha high end products are up there with the best. Brand snob

[@keithmoriyama5421]

Absolutely! I don't own any Yamaha but I am familiar with their product and while not my taste they are excellent and can stand up to P.S. Audio.

[@garyharper2943]

In a double blind test he couldn’t tell a Yamaha receiver from any of his high priced alternatives.

[@fsmoura]

AKKSHUALLY, when the alternative kicks in you can know it by just how much lighter your wallet feels in your pants...

[@nightdrive2646]

I have 4 amplifiers, and they all sound different from one another. I also have 4 different preamps, and same thing, they all sound different. I also have a 40 watt receiver, and it sounds like crap compared to the better pre and power amps.

[@zizendorf]

@@nightdrive2646 Finally, sanity.

[@volpedo2000]

PSA for the audiences. If you are planning to ask Paul a question, write “integrated amplifier” rather than “receiver”. There’s a high chance you’ll get a different answer.

[@mongo2044]

Ugh, Yamaha amps and receivers mid up to top Aventage line is excellent. Paul needs to visit Yamaha at an audio show soon. AVRs (any brand) are a big bang for the buck too. Most have all the streaming services and Airplay built in! No need for WiiM or Arylic. Yamaha is one. My advice is, if you like the sound, replace the Yamaha with an Aventage or, add a subwoofer.

[@tomturner6792]

The big Japanese audio companies such as Yamaha, Denon, Technics etc. make some of the best value and best made equipment (at any price) due to economies of scale, big development budgets and experience. If you want to pay more for a 'high end brand' to impress HiFi snobs be my guest!

[@cunawarit]

I'm in complete agreement.

[@OG2978-g7x]

Some sellers let you try gear at home. That would be the best way. There are also good and not expensive power amps out there that can be hooked up to the receiver assuming it has a pre out.

[@lessp57]

I have the Yamaha B6 Power Amps. They sound great and still working great after 49 years.

[@user-od9iz9cv1w]

Maybe he doesn't need to change anything. He did not mention that anything was an issue sound wise. Lots of people rave about older Yamaha receivers. But easy to try a loan of a different amp and see if there is anything to be improved in that department.

[@fsmoura]

It's too cheap. To be an audiophile you need gear from another cost tier altogether.

[@roberts.4261]

My advice would be this: 1. don't search the internet too much, 95%+ of reviews/influencers are disguised advertising. 2. set realistic goals, i.e. do you even have a music room or is the system in the living room, bedroom, etc. If the room can't be arranged to the max, no $$$$ high-end equipment will help you. 3. listen to your feelings (not others) and buy what suits you. Of course, it's fine if you can test the equipment at home (listening in a store and at home will not give the same results). 4. Music is an emotion and these days you have a lot of equipment available, even budget ones, which are really not bad and give very good results. If you buy what you love, memories of youth, etc., the end result will also be positive. 5. Remember to enjoy listening to music and not listening to the hi-fi system. Remember when you were young and you heard your favorite song on a bad car radio, on a small hand radio, etc., and you were probably the happiest person in the world (why do you think most young people today are happy to listen to music on the phone, of course the answer is emotion (first music and favorite singer/band) PS: My story - I have a hi-fi system in a very "unsuitable" room (bedroom) and I bought components from manufacturers (mid-range) that I wanted them since I was a teenager (B&W speakers, Rotel integrated amp, Rega turntable, etc.). I arranged the listening space in such a way that I am in an equilateral triangle, approx. 2 meters. The end result: I enjoy listening to music immensely. My favorite artists and the gear I've wanted since I was ten years old kid. Answer = emotions.

[@wellivea1]

Yes, they may talk shit about the major brands but unless you're dealing with speakers that are very difficult to drive, that's not going to be where you should spend your money almost ever. Maybe if you want to be able to squeeze every last bit of SPL or buy exotic speakers with insane impedance curves, you can spend the money on 250w monoblocks. Once you have a half decent amp and source, spend all your money on speakers and subs (and your time on speaker placement and room treatment if possible). Any other answer is really suspect to me.

[@sheek1982]

The new definition of "audiophile" will soon be updated to, "just get expensive equipment". 🙄

[@tikilord66]

Is that really a new definition?

[@cunawarit]

The term "audiophile" today implies not only a preference for high-end, expensive equipment but also a tendency to accept unscientific claims about audio performance.

[@fsmoura]

Look, I just so happen to have very sensitive, picky-temperamental even-ears whose fiddly fastidiousness cannot really be captured by the clinical, dry linearity of empirical measurements, A/B testing, or any some such Cartesian scheme that leaves out the emotion of audiophile enjoyment-the emotion of having paid a king's ransom for a piece of audio gear, the sweet sound of your audiophile friends' jaws dropping as you inform them of the cost, the _Damocles' sword_ thrill of your wife finding out how much you spent, triggering immediate divorce proceedings... I don't know, it makes everything much more vibrant, you feel really alive. ( o.o)

[@nightdrive2646]

Most people have never heard music played back on a true high-end stereo system. If you want to advance beyond mid-fi gear, seek out and listen to some really good high-end speakers, something like the Estelon Extreme speakers driven by a Vitus Class A amp. Yes, that type of system is insanely expensive, but you will then at least understand how clean and open and pure music can sound on a properly set-up high-end system versus a mass market receiver driving generic speakers. The used market is a great place to get high-end gear at somewhat reasonable pricing.

[@redmondjp]

@@nightdrive2646 But for someone on a budget, that is often the LAST thing that you want to do! Every time that I go over to my audiophile friend's house and listen to his system, it costs me more money LOL! If you are happy with what you can afford, sometimes it's best just to leave it be and not listen to better gear that will make you unhappy with what you have now. Ignorance is bliss. I am this way with my cars, which are old and paid off. I don't want to know how much nicer newer cars are because I can't afford them anyways. It's nice to be happy with what you have. There is nothing wrong with that. Life is short, best to enjoy as much of it as we can, because chasing the better thing doesn't ever lead to the end of the rainbow.

[@AllboroLCD]

No brainer for me! If the Yammie has pre-outs, grab up a nice juicy vintage Yammie power amp for the new speakers, you wont be sorry. No pre-outs? 86 the receiver, pick up a nice mid 90's Adcom preamp (couple hundred) and a GFA-555 ($5-600). Brand new, the Emotiva entry level monoblocks and preamp can be gotten for less than $1500

[@wubangermac4826]

If you don't have a sub the 1st step is to definitely add a sub. It is the foundation of your whole system

[@lukeace347]

Pair of them. Just like the speakers. 2 speakers, so 2 subs.

[@zizendorf]

Absolutely not - never. If an expensive pair of well made speakers, combined with other high quality components has lousy bass response, you purchased lousy speakers and/or you don't know how to set-up your speakers to work within the acoustical strengths and limitations of your room. I'm not talking about special effects and the soundrack in a movie. What's the lowest note on a double-bass, an electric bass, and a grand piano? What are the limitations of you hearing of high end sounds. What's the most prevalent high frequency note typically included in an audio recording? Nope - no sub-woofers here.

[@lukeace347]

@zizendorf Your statement is entirely incorrect, and I strongly disagree with it.

[@zizendorf]

@@lukeace347 Okay, that’s okay. And thank you for civility. Sometimes difficult in comments. So, could/would you elaborate? How many Hz is that low “E”? How about the highest note on a Glockenspiel? A tapping cymbal? Resonant of an amplified harmonic? You realize any deeper, lower notes of an orchestra are not created by an instrument but simply a vibration.

[@lukeace347]

@@zizendorf It's not 1750 anymore-we’re no longer limited to acoustic instruments and orchestras to generate sounds. Contemporary music often incorporates VSTs and basslines created by oscillators. There are countless genres and artists that use these tools brilliantly. The 25Hz-35Hz range is crucial in a vast number of tracks, but not many speakers can reproduce frequencies that low. Even when they can, they require an enormous amount of power-hundreds of watts per channel-to do it properly. On top of that, stereo speakers, typically positioned to create an accurate soundstage in front of you, are rarely placed in the optimal spot for reproducing low bass in a normal room. If you’re unaware of these challenges and nuances, you’re missing out on a lot.

[@stevenkoski228]

I was a Yamaha enthusiast for 25yrs. I bought a ‘80 Threshold (Nelson Pass) Stasis3 amp & SL10 preamp. The improvement in fidelity was a religious experience! I’ve sworn-off all Japanese HiFi electronics, they’re all basically the same, having no real clarity or transparency.

[@Greenapul]

Consider purchasing the amp that the dealer used to demo the paradigm speakers. Presumably you were sufficiently impressed with that amp/speaker combo.

[@EricBrettJones]

I really appreciated your tip about The War of Art. A great book.

[@DethFromAbove1985]

Yamaha CA-1010 are not bad. Kind of the beginning of the more clinical sound.

[@joeythedime1838]

I agree the Yamaha CA-1010 is a good vintage receiver and one in nice shape today sells for about $1k. At ~35 years old it might require a $500 or so tune-up, but it runs in Class A up to 5 watts and is pretty special. One thing to remember is to attenuate modern 2v sources to get the best out it. Specifications: Power output: 100 watts per channel into 8Ω (stereo), Frequency response: 5Hz to 50kHz, Total harmonic distortion: 0.005%.

[@redmondjp]

I'm daily-using a Yamaha R-900 (office, $30 at thrift store), RX-777 (garage, $40 at thrift store), and MX-800U (main listening room, $180 at used electronics store). Is there there something better out there? I'm sure that there is. But I am very happy with the sound from my Yamaha receivers and amp. So I concur with other commenters that I wouldn't discount a Yamaha receiver. Try a better source and speakers first, then if still not happy with the sound, upgrade the amp/receiver. I am running a PS Audio Directstream Jr. DAC feeding my MX-800U and it sounds really, really good, through some vintage, refurbished Speakerlab S500 speakers that have some really amazing tweeters in them. You can get great sound out of budget, and vintage gear, if you choose and match carefully. The best part is, it doesn't have to cost that much, so you have the budget left over to try different components. My DAC cost multiple times what every other component combined did. And the DAC's improvement to the soundstage, to me, was completely worth it. I close my eyes in the darkened room and disappear into a floating cloud of music all around me (hard to believe that it's only two speakers doing all of the work). It's wonderful when you get your components working together in harmony with your listening room space and your room is set up properly.

[@johnbrooks1058]

The wiim pro without a dac is not very good .I would get a dac from Amazon or a dealer that takes returns and try a $200- $300 dac and see if it helps .If it don’t Paul is probably right about the amp. You return it at no cost.Good Luck on your hifi journey.

[@davidhester9897]

I agree the magic happens at the source, you get some magic happening there and you won't believe how good the sound can be with just a decent amp, then have some pretty revealing speakers and you can be very happy.

[@cunawarit]

I found myself deeply disagreeing with how Yamaha is portrayed in this video. With its unmatched engineering expertise, Yamaha transcends the boundaries of "high-end" audio by being deeply embedded in the very fabric of music creation. From crafting grand pianos for world-class artists to providing cutting-edge studio mixers, broadcasting gear, and live theater equipment, Yamaha’s influence extends across every stage of music production and consumption. Unlike boutique luxury audio brands, Yamaha’s reach and expertise go far beyond consumer audio. It plays a foundational role in the production, performance, and recording of the music you hear. In fact, the music you’re enjoying right now was likely played, produced, or performed using Yamaha equipment at some point. The distinction is clear-Yamaha operates on an entirely different level, far above any high end audio brand you can name. The suggestion to avoid Yamaha and opt for an "high end audio" company is simply bad advice. Yamaha is so deeply embedded in music that to argue it isn’t "good enough" is to suggest that recorded music itself isn’t good enough-a claim that simply doesn’t hold up.

[@mongo2044]

Thanks. All true.

[@yoctoflop]

What prompt generated this?

[@fsmoura]

This is not about music, pal, this is about having the _best possible_ audio gear. And also staying humble knowing that no matter how _good_ your system is, there's always a _more expensive_ system somewhere!

[@cunawarit]

@fsmoura I figured that audiophiles aren't in it for the music, thanks for confirming this.

[@Larwiz]

I approve this message 1000%

[@bikdav]

I respectfully disagree with your assessment of YAMAHA. I’ve done quite well with them.

[@computerfreakch8912]

A 15-year-old Yamaha may be better than a new Yamaha... I used to buy Yamaha all the time until I got the latest and greatest - only to see that it wasn't doing it for me. Then I bought an old Marantz power amp, and that turned out to be the upgrade I needed. I have now decided to try something entirely different without spending a lot of money by buying something used that would be analog, likely a tube preamp to get the taste of it, and I do not think of it being the upgrade, but rather to discover new territory. Nothing wrong in selling it if it's not my thing or if I like it and want something better. So, how about that approach?

[@JanPatrickLucas]

Paradigm 100F are excellent speakers ( I own them too) but NOT with a Yamaha receiver. Paul's right, I would upgrade your engine. You need more power to energize those speakers.

[@Chris-nd5se]

True, the Paradigms should be good speakers, they are approx £6500 in the UK. Bass extension shouldn't really be a problem as they are floorstanders. I would be looking at upgrading either the Yamaha receiver or Wiim pro.

[@JanPatrickLucas]

@@Chris-nd5se Right on Chris. Thanks for your supportive intput.

[@ogopogo1397]

Yamaha A-S series is top notch. Knocking it is a dick move. Sure they've made alot of "junk" in their cheap ranges but their 2 channel from the past and present is Excellent.

[@shinvergil]

Yamaha products are quality units, and the higher end lineup is great. Yamaha is a huge company. Hence, you dont see them advertise much nor run after reviewers.

[@InsideOfMyOwnMind]

Sorry to say, this one today was a big FAIL. Having been among an authorized Yamaha servicer for multiple decades I can say with absolutely zero reservation that they are among the very best in standing behind their goods and making quality products that normal people can afford. You slam Yamaha, you slam my own sensibilities.

[@vatoslocos7314]

Truth is hard sometimes

[@lexicon612]

A PS Audio Sprout (integrated amp) would be a nice affordable first step into high end audio. Night and day difference from Yamaha anything. Many people here would also have affordable speaker option suggestions, including myself. I think it's great, but understand that you have not even taken your first (high end) step. It's about to get exciting.

[@HAL9007]

I still miss my old Yamaha CA-2010 Integrated. Running my Allison 3's.

[@hershbagelstein545]

Congrats on offending all the Yamaha fan boys. Nicely done and not bad for an old timer. My suggestion is 180 degrees opposite of yours. Go listen to the best audiophile system you can. Decide what you love and what you don’t. Then go listen to components and speakers that get close. Remember, high end audio is a game of micro improvements when you get beyond $5000 components.

[@nightdrive2646]

I agree with almost everything except with only "micro improvements" over $5k. Speakers get much better (PS Audio's FR series speakers are fantastic, especially the FR20 & FR30), amps get much better, preamps get much better, DAC's get much better.

[@papabear1417]

Easy. It'll be Yamaha or Project depending on what I buy.

[@davidstevens7809]

I would start by asking what model receiver. How big is the room. Show me the setup. What model speakers? I can make average equipment sound better.

[@williamwahl6464]

Rule 1: Good Gear is like good cars. You can pay the big bucks for new or get one that has everything you want and have it built back up. A lot depends how loud you want to be. For most, many do not need much more than a 50 watt per channel system. I am Old School and want to be loud, so I purchased an old 1980's NAD 2200 that needed work for $140 then took it to a guy here in Indy who has been working on these since they came out and make it back to spec for $250. At spec these NAD 2200's can do the job. Audio-Dyno's well over 200 watt per channel which they were rated to perform. Save the big money for speakers that you should have built to handle that Power Amp. NAD has one of the better Pre-Amps the NAD 1300.

[@TheVeganVicar]

Thanks again, Mr. McGowan!

[@mattgiunt]

Sorry Paul but you have not heard Yamaha sound quality to dig on them like that. Way better than Denon or Marantz in sound . Problem with yamaha is they have not come out with a new generation of receivers in way too long. Im waiting to buy a new Yamaha and its getting frustrating

[@spacemissing]

Yes, you could do better, but Yamaha isn't THAT bad.

[@frostwise87]

I love these videos thanks so much

[@johannkrist]

are there any Octave records recordings on Tidal, Spotify ect?

[@fsmoura]

lol why not get it in cassette and some bluetooth shelf speakers then??

[@johannkrist]

@@fsmoura the cassette isn´t a bad idea. I did a blind test with a friend the other day. I found blank metal cassette (type3) and made a copy straight from vinyl. used Leonard Cohen album You want it darker. had same track running and switched between, streaming, vinyl and cassette. best sounding one was vinyl, then to our surprise cassette sounded better than streaming. So not such a bad idea. too bad only type1 cassettes are made today.

[@mariocassar3117]

Well….my system does everything good…..after 40 years in this hobby !

[@trog69]

I found the sub to be the best upgrade, next after the loudspeakers I was very fortunate to get which go down to 28htz.

[@KillerKojak]

I have the RX-A3070 and put a splitter on rca front out.. and buy 2 different amp in use...a Counterpoint tweaked SA-12 and a robust Sony N-80ES also 2 tweaked B&W 801 and Triangle antal esw AND IT SOUND MARVELOUS to me !!!! Dont know if the 15 yrs old Yamaha receiver of this audiophile is a decent one.....

[@dman7776]

I have a class a Luxman amp. I also have a Yamaha AS 3200 amp. The Yamaha sounds every bit as good as the luxman. It's in no way inferior.

[@Skye_the_toller]

Yamaha produce good product for the money! with almost every bells and whistles I do not need...you will not know if you do not listen other components... I had the CX 5000 and 5002... and realized what I had missing when I upgraded it! more expensive... but much better (I had the Founder Paradigm 100 too... best for your money... )... as you are from Canada... take a look at Anthem products... more expensive, but also a great value for your money... have fun!

[@Oystein87]

Correction: Yamaha actually have some amazing price winning amps and recivers in the high-end audio class...

[@ThatHz-]

Buckeye is worth a look if you have normal depth pockets.

[@DrNoahBoddy004]

Upgrade your speaker cables, and interconnects first.🌹✨

[@barrymiller3385]

The ability to fix issues with systems comes with experience. I'm quite sure Paul would be able to do it easily - but it's not so easy for someone new to our hobby. I do find myself listening to music at family or friends homes and itching to improve what they're doing. But I don't unless they specifically ask me. If you know someone with a good bit of experience in audio see if they will come for a listen. If not, whilst I am not familiar with your speakers, I would be inclined to have a look at the amp first. And try experimenting with your speaker positioning. You might be amazed at how much difference that can make.

[@mattrismatt]

Yamaha's RX-Z receivers from about 15 years ago are not to be scoffed at, Paul... especially for someone with budgetary constraints and who just spent thousands on a new pair of speakers. My advice would be to invest in room treatment, a premium subwoofer, and eventually, surround-sound... or better speakers to fill all the channels. Multi-channel SACDs and Blu-ray Audio discs are a revelation!

[@3184Patrick]

a 15 year old Yamaha receiver like a RX-Z9 can hang with most of PS Audios equipment for far less $... even a 4 month old one like the RX-A8A will kick ass...

[@robertbaring7775]

Ah .. ahem. I have a setup which has a 40-year old fully refurbished Yamaha M-80 and a 6-year old Aventage RX-A1080 as a preamp. The M-80 has a (recently measured) THD which is an order of magnitude better than PS Audio's best monoblock (

[@raphael3528]

Years ago I was shopping for a new bass amp; I could afford it and I just thought I buy a new amp. The guy in the music store asked me: what do you miss with your old amp. I had no answer and I still play my old amp. - So, I agree with Paul's advice not to look for new equipment unless you have a good answer to that question. / P.S.: Agree with you guys and not with Paul on Yamaha.

[@stefanblutke8053]

„Take a deep breathe“ … …always a proper Choice when it comes down to audiophile purchases….🤪

[@ridingdreamer]

If you are primarily a digital guy, get a good standalone DAC.

[@keithmoriyama5421]

The best demo and the best sound to my ears at Toronto's Audiofest 2024 was an understated room with an all Yamaha system, including stand mount speakers-- something I would never consider. I also checked out the P.S. Audio FR30's combined with top of the line Accuphase. Sorry Paul, the Yamaha system sounded better.

[@cunawarit]

I don't find this surprising, I don't want to take away from smaller companies, I admire their passion and wish them success. But an engineering powerhouse like Yamaha is not easy to beat.

[@keithmoriyama5421]

@@cunawarit I'm not saying that the Yamaha was superior to the FR30/ Accuphase system, but in this situation with a full bodied relaxing program, the Yamaha was superb. I could imagine such an understated musical system in my living room. The Yammy wasn't cheap -- $15 to $20K but the PS/Accuphase was $100K++++

[@Mark-lq3sb]

Once again as usual it comes to budget. Isn't that what life is really about?

[@Mark-lq3sb]

@@cunawarit Sorry, but Yamaha doesn't have the greatest engineering team of all time, and you could say the same thing about PS Audio. No audio manufacture does.

[@francoisroberge5882]

Hey Paul looks like you upset a lot of Yamaha owners. Price is a big issue. In Canada you need extra bucks to own good gear. Take the US price multiply it by 1.35 % to convert it to USD and then add 1.13 % for the GST (grab, snatch and take) for the feds and the province you live in. Roughly it's US price times 1.5. It's not cheap living in America Lite.

[@fsmoura]

E-Z P-Z: Step 1) Find out how much money you _have_ in the bank Step 2) Find out how much money you can _borrow_ from the bank Step 3) Find out how much you can spend before your wife _threatens_ divorce Step 4) Find out how much you can spend before the wife _follows through_ on those threats Then disregard everything and go in for the kill, getting the top-of-the-line option, as no expenditure is too much compared to the audio bliss of outclassing your audiophile friends in the next show and tell meet. 👍

[@maxhirsch7035]

I'd say if one is very financially constrained, beyond what Paul is recommending, I'd say that focusing on speaker placement & room "dampening" or "livening" if reasonably possible would be first steps- it might be free! Beyond that, do research on cheaper audiophile brands- NAD, Audioengine, Emotive, & the like. Andrew Jones, who designs 100K speakers, has also designed ones for just a few hundred dollars (or even less) for Pioneer & Elac. Also, reliable used gear can obviously save one a great deal of money- just find out first what it will sound like- tastes are personal.

[@fsmoura]

If one is very financially constrained, I'd advise getting more money.

[@ryanschipp8513]

Paul, did you Comprehend what equipment he has? He has paradigm speakers. I think we can eliminate that his speakers are as you would say ..... maybe the speakers are crap.

[@Mark-lq3sb]

Apparently, Paul can't have his own opinion. The Stormtroopers are storming!

[@1337sim1]

If I was this guy, I would try an Anthem amplifier. It should be available in his local dealer since Anthem and Paradigm are brands owned by the same company. Later on, he'll be able to add one subwoofer. Then another subwoofer for more even bass in the room. All of this while using the Anthem room correction 😎 Hope this helps

[@SteveDavies-db5fb]

This is good advice. I added an Anthem power amp to my Marantz AVR to drive my Mirage M3Si’s for 2 channel listening. I then added a good sub. I am now very happy with the results.

[@1337sim1]

@SteveDavies-db5fb I think so too 😋 Anthem room correction (ARC) has positive reviews and it should be available in his area 😎

[@tothemax324]

Take your time and use the force.

[@DarthVader1977]

Indeed.

[@great100m]

Sometimes the salesman in Paul comes across.

[@macka46]

Yamaha make good and affordable products, and I have used them and loved them, for you to bag them to me is not nice, most can't afford you're hi end products but enjoy you're video's and comments, I have a fairly modest system that I can afford and to me sounds great, I still enjoy you're chanel but thought this was a harsh comment, just my opinion ok.

[@DarthVader1977]

makes* your* high* end your* videos* your* channel*

[@macka46]

@@DarthVader1977 Whatever, Mr perfect.

[@DarthVader1977]

@@macka46 Mr. Perfect was a wrestler, I am a Sith Lord.

[@dank.6942]

The Yamaha is probably fine. The subwoofer is likely to be my first choice, then go from there.

[@joejoejoejoejoejoe4391]

Blueray player, chifi DAC and home made chip amps and speakers.

[@preude1]

Hifi Huff reviewing Yamaha receivers R-N1000A, R-N2000A and integrated amp A-S3200: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mJTRYnatZrCEac0si=1sXExiNZxIJDDEjb kzbin.info/www/bejne/pnfYd3earMt5bdksi=WnEtHr1HoLKITRlz kzbin.info/www/bejne/mqvIf3V-hMRlo7ssi=n8mTnJb0yKaWZxHC His opinion very good sound quality and value for the money! Thomas & Stereo reviewing Yamaha integrated amp A-S2200: kzbin.info/www/bejne/m4HLn4SwhLF_ptUsi=3lDvVbNPHzu6M1Z4 His opinion good premium quality impressed by the sound! A British Audiophile reviewing Yamaha A-S2200: kzbin.info/www/bejne/h3y9oYaAppaqoNUsi=ohpLQ0aS9kASfkHp His opinion premium great balanced amplifier highly recommended. So maby not high-end audio but there's nothing wrong with Yamaha's premium line products. Yamaha also has a high-end line C-5000, M-5000, GT-5000 and NS-5000 but not many reviews online...

[@Mark-lq3sb]

Oh no, someone else that lives and breathes by the reviewer.

[@preude1]

​@@Mark-lq3sb Not really. I own a Yamaha A-S integrated amplifier for many years now and sought a number of reviews from serious and respected reviewers for this response.

[@Mark-lq3sb]

@@preude1 "serious and respected" What does that really mean? Because they have thousands of subscribers and lots of likes? From people that "may" be clueless about the subject. The bottom line... It's always someone's opinion, and we all know that different people like different "sounds" Just listen to people in comment sections when someone mentions a particular brand. A reviewer can say it has this particular sound and not that particular sound. Once again, it's that review's opinion and there's a very good possibility not all will agree. The only facts they can give are the tested specs and how the control features work. If you personally have respect for someone and you trust them, that's great. In my opinion, you certainly have the right to listen to who ever you want.

[@David_vdk]

a yamaha as3200 is not hi-end ??

[@bf0189]

My Yamaha AV receiver is great

[@SuperMcgenius]

There is nothing wrong with the Yamaha, but you can do better. An integrated amp like the Prima Luna. Or similar quality, the difference is not subtle

[@stimpy1226]

I’m OK, you’re OK

[@subcoded]

Dude, you are clearly unaware of Yamaha's upper end equipment...

[@bernardodon7501]

The endgame upgrade: get a McInBose! Frankenstein has reached HighEnd audio. Or support your local musicians, live and in color ;-)

[@rdlawrence1473]

I must agree with Paul. As both an electrical engineer and audiophile I find the Yamaha sound much too dry and clinical to the point of letdown in almost every moment of listening. That's been my limited experience; I have not heard every Yamaha piece. For a long time I enjoyed an Eico ST40. I've also owned Exposure and Sonus Faber Minuettos. I built the Norman Koren PAS-3 preamp PSPICE redesign with phono stage and fed it with a Shure V-15 VxMR. Yamaha might measure well but they're shallow in bass, like a lot of early Japanese transistor stuff. For an example of vintage full range audio visit some of the McIntosh gear, pre-Clarion. I was a bench tech in audio for six years and heard a lot of stuff. I did tubed gear, FM tuners, open-reel tape decks, turntables, and receivers. I don't feel like I own the last word in sound but I do have an opinion. A+ on the answer given.

[@guillermobrito4987]

You have a nice pair of speakers, you a budget streamer, and a well build receiver. So you're missing a subwoofer... That "if you're interested on hi-end audio" its what keep people off the hobby...remember music first...i guess he doesnt even know what a Wiim is...if he knew he would tell u thats nos hi-end. For example...you have to try Octave records to enjoy music..thats not truth

[@nightdrive2646]

Paul has heard many fantastic high-end systems over the years, and has heard great sounding music and poorly recorded/processed music. PSA's Octave Records does have some fantastic sounding music where they have personally recorded and personally produced music properly, without heavy processing that compromises sound quality. Trying Octave Records was only a suggestion to understand what properly recorded/produced music sounds like.

[@Kaspurr84]

I've never heard a good sounding Yamaha amplifier product, don't get me wrong Yamaha makes some amazing stuff, affordable studio monitors, keyboards. I just think 99% of their home amplifier products are very sub par. Glad to see you mention that Paul.

[@AxelPironio]

Room treatment

[@Tom-xg1kj]

Omg, I have a Yamaha amp and Klipsch Reference speakers. I guess I need to put them in the trash. Friends and neighbors think they sound great. I guess we are all stoopid.

[@riversidesouthdowns856]

Great video today Paul, well explained and good suggestions!

[@vincentthompson3662]

I will not buy a Yamaha receive either

[@DarthVader1977]

.*

[@johannkrist]

ohhhh. Yamaha owners aren´t happy with this one... 🤭

[@ColtLuger]

It's whatever I can talk my wife into.

[@bayard1332]

After looking for great sound for 54 years I'm firmly in the camp of -do not buy a single piece of audio equipment searching for better sound- until you have sorted your room's acoustics out. You simply will not ever be satisfied putting new gear into an acoustically shitty room. It simply can not sound good in such a room.

[@gtric1466]

If the receiver is an AVR that would be my upgrade. Also first make sure speaker placement are optimal these are really nice speakers. Sub is always a +

[@CharlieStokes-hw8rw]

Maybe just relax and enjoy the music that you have now. Get off the treadmill.

[@cunawarit]

This is the best advice, most people "upgrading" have perfectly good sound systems.

[@tikilord66]

This right here. Don't fall down the rabbit hole of spending a lot of money chasing that .01% improvement.

[@stevenholquin2127]

…..What Happens When You Cross Paul McGowan with a Yamaha Amp ? ….You Get a Lip Smacking YAMAHA…HA…HA…HA 😮 Pauls Disparaging Remarks About Yamaha Amplifiers is Not Appropriated Jeffery Enjoy What You Have You Got More Than Most …..There is No Right or Wrong Way To Go About Your Next Audio Purchase ….as a Kid….i Had The Most Bare Bones 🦴’s Montgomery Wards Stereo and As a Kid My System Sounded Great 😊 I Would Then Add To My Room Crazy 😜 Lights a Couple of Indoor Palm Trees a Aquarium and Purple String Lights on a Dimmer and listen to Dave Brubeck or Boots 🥾’s Randolph ….all This Talk Has Made Me Sleepy 😴

[@viziontex]

Paradigm founder are top notch speakers it's defenetly receiver!

[@jos5067]

For all the people below ⬇️ who are a little bit frustrated about Paul’s remarks over the old Yamaha. He’s talking about an ‘aging’ receiver, and not an amplifier. I do have a Yamaha amplifier too, like a lot of us, but I can understand his reasoning in this regard a little. Yamaha is a great 👍 brand with a lot of good stuff from bottom to high end!

[@grymkaft]

1:22

[@cunawarit]

Paul literally said brand new Yamaha equipment wasn't very good.

[@jos5067]

@@cunawaritYou’re right, not a a good move from Paul for sure!

[@googoo-gjoob]

despite wide misconception, listening (not hearing) is a gradient skill. sure Yamaha makes decent stuff, and if that is there level your listening abilities have achieved, so be it. but please know..... there is more.

[@Charles12509]

Yamaha is a great product, change the speakers, Dac and streamer.. The Wiim is ok as a streamer but the Dac isn’t good…

[@DAM1825]

😏

[@williamsarver2491]

Bad mouthing YAMAHA equipment is ridiculous-- Paul is selling BS in this video Always change speakers first - speakers that match efficiency Make sure you have a clean source for a receiver Simple Hard to denigrate any Yamaha products except motorcycles lol

[@mr.george7687]

I'm sure any owners of Wilsons, Focal or large Magnepans are going around bragging "I got a Yamaha" !

[@mongo2044]

I used a Yamaha on Magnepans. No problem.

[@tikilord66]

Shouldn't be bragging about their speakers either nobody really cares.