I Compare Two Of My Best Loudspeakers - Sonus Faber SE17 Versus Magico Q7 MK2

[@dlmp70]

Fantastic comparison! Thank you for taking the time to do it, Jay!

[@joelowens5211]

I have had the Sonus Faber Aida 2's for a few years now. Certain speakers respond better to larger rooms where the design of the speaker lets them breathe more. The Sonus Fabers would shine even more in a larger room than Jay's. The Magico can be like a quick hit of adrenaline. The Sonus Faber more refined, emotional , relaxed. I own a commercial company and my type of mind goes 24/7 so the Sonus Faber helps me relax and get lost in the music as a recharge and disconnect to a busy schedule. I do not need more stimulation. I am also creating new ideas for my business around the clock. My mind is always creating and thinking so need to ramp down and get lost sometimes. Other people sometimes their brain fires off zero neurons unless you are right in their face asking them a question to wake up their brain and get it thinking. The Aida 2's are I think about 135,000 a pair now I can't remember. I think at that level with the right amplification and system set up in a room you don't need 300k or 500k speakers. I do like the bi-amping on the Sonus Fabers. Just make sure you want to go that route before ordering expensive cables. I have 2 VAC 452 IQ musicblocks one to each speaker. Each VAC puts out about 900 clean watts divied up to one speaker. The Sonus Faber I have has a downward firing 15 inch sub. The bass literally can shake a whole building just halfway up. The VAC pre-amp the way it is designed I can set the full 6 volts on the Vivaldi DCS Apex. My house is in remodel mode still. I have 3 different electrical power panel buss bars. My electrician said that 2 of the panels were newer aluminim with low oxidation ratio and good but 3rd one ( the main) was older and starting to show signs of corrosion on the aluminum bus bar. The older panels had a certain conductivity and oxidation factor to the aluminum buss bars that over time caused to oxide too fast and can cause arcing and a home fire. For just a little more money I am upgrading to a copper buss bar with breaker panel to replace the old aluminum one. Copper tends to be more stable and conduct better transfer of power. I am running 10 gauge copper Romex to my relax room for 3 different dedicated breakers and outlets for my gear. I use the Audioquest power outlets. The large plugs from heavier gear do not sink in well with regular power outlets. You want an outlet that really has a solid and snug fit.

[@robbase-f6x]

that's a heck of a post

[@thomassannito3528]

Jay,could you give us your personal analogy of the chronosonic XVX compared to the Majico and the Sonus Faber ?

[@jaysaudiolab]

Maybe someday.

[@toddwillard8927]

@@jaysaudiolab

[@tabl10s]

The XVX'S will have the better height, physically and audibly.

[@glenncornwall4331]

Boy, is this hobby ever subjective. OK here it goes. I would place the Wilson, audio XVX speaker right in between Magico speakers and the Sonus Faber. I personally have chosen the Wilson, audio Maxx V speakers as mine with the associated, Dan Agostino relentless Amplifier and preamplifier.🤗🫶👍

[@gryphondiablo3006]

Wilson Chronosonic XVX is my favourite speaker 🎶🔥🔥🔥🎶

[@EC-jd5ed]

I appreciate you honest and brutal comments Jay 👏👏👏 I had owned and listened to both and personally I shared very similar experience especially Magico’s bass volume is the only minor thing this brand I have reservation about (I used Gryphon EVO to drive) SF on the other hand has a totally different approach , they have a very palatable colouration but not necessarily accurate reproduction of the signal source. Currently I decided on Wilson Alexia2 which in my humble opinion is THE best of both worlds: it has that canvas nature (not as neutral as Magico but the bass volume is much easier to drive) and much less colouration than SF. Keep it up !

[@paulzacarias4001]

This is a great explanation of the experience with these speakers. Well done 👍

[@Inlinefour-m9j]

First time I heard anyone comparing a speaker to a bloody crime scene ;-)

[@davidsmith9407]

This is one of your best videos. Excellent editing and flow. Very informative without overdoing it. Loved the 'Rated-R' vs 'Rated PG-13' analogy. Great job, Jay!

[@jaysaudiolab]

Wow, thanks!

[@robvandendolder3157]

Thanks Jay for great insights of 4 accomplished audiophiles. I prefer the presentation of th SE17. There is enough detail to satisfy me in the reference level Sonus Fabers. Really educational and interesting series of videos. Thank you 👍😎

[@raphaelmeillat8527]

I don't own either of these sets. But heard some of Magico's and SF's flagship speakers, and I would choose SF any day, for both aesthetics and non-fatiguing sound characteristics. Magico is simply too intense for me.

[@dandinhofer9240]

I actually agree with the presenter regarding the sound quality of Sonus Fabers and the Magicos. Spot on. Heard them at RMAF and Axpona. However, where I differ is that within the Magicos lineup, I much prefer the M7 and M5's sound to any of the A or Q series. Found them way too analytical and soulless. The Ms were just right, not too hot and not too cold.

[@performingspecs7841]

Great video and awesome equipment in that room, my equipment doesn’t cost nearly as much but for me my room sounds magical and nothing compares. I can’t imagine what your room sounds like in person, it would probably blow my mind. Something I have wondered for a while though, do you watch movies in that room as well? I’m noticing the screen in the background.

[@ffari4346]

So basically: Fighet Jet vs GulfStream! Honestly would prefer the private jet. Thanks for the amazing video Jay!

[@jaysaudiolab]

You bet!

[@user-eh3qz4zv1o]

Great reveal Jay! Honest and I feel very informed, probably the best review from you...

[@jaysaudiolab]

I appreciate that!

[@EPA00001]

This is a tough choice to make with these top speakers from top brands. But in the end I would go with the Sonus Faber SE17. Mainly because of the character you have described so well about how they deliver the music to the listener. And maybe also because I am fan of the brand of which I also own speakers, for a long time already. As you said, this is all subjective and personal and it is great that you emphasise that. Thanks for another great video Jay. Your are 'spoiling' us with videos like that. Keep up the good work. 👍

[@Schleich-l7x]

You can get the sound of these systems for 10k-15k. They are made for big rooms, for massive volumes. But if you have a small room, there are systems out there, which can produce the same sound signature. Not as loud, not with the same sovereignty, but with the same neutrality, resolution and stage. You pay for loudness and bass thunder. The decisive qualities are available for a lower price.

[@Romulus980]

So the Magico is the big dipper fair ground ride ( with health warnings for certain conditions) while Sonus Faber is like seeing a thorough complex train sets in action with all the surrounding buildings, roads, landscapes, stations under the glow of pretty evening lights. Maybe the big clue is the design and style of each speaker...

[@tronghuynh982]

Thank you for sharing your feedback on both speakers! We have lots of room in Texas for you. Move here for more house and less money so you can build your dream home to put all your systems in different rooms!!

[@jandof7781]

I share the opnion that both Tidal or Kharma speakers would fit gloriously in this room. These 2 brands are considered masterpieces of musicality and audio performance.

[@OlegHiSen]

These brands are on another level.

[@c34webb]

Would love to get your take on the Borreson gear

[@davewin1792]

Thank you for the breakdown Jay. God Bless!

[@jaysaudiolab]

My pleasure!

[@rafaelroman3393]

Awesome Jay keep Your dream alive

[@DBTAudio]

Jay, nice video as always! Sounds to me like you’d choose the Magico over the Sonus Faber if you had to live with just one. You cracked me up with your descriptions of both speakers.😆 I got a feeling the higher tiered Marten speakers would make your top tiered list of best speakers in your room. They don’t have many dealers in the USA and the resale maybe an issue because they are not as popular as the Wilson’s, Magico’s and a few other brands in America.

[@jaysaudiolab]

Right on!

[@ivanfilatov7913]

Great comparison. I like detail, transparency etc. Both look awesome. But I'd love to see Focal speakers again! Probably it would sit almost in the middle between the two of these. but closer to Magico.

[@bradt.3555]

The problem is with any speaker you become used to the sound, then when you listen to something else it has a good chance of sounding "better" simply because it's different. I hear countless adjectives used to describe speakers that have no meaning in regards to music. I've had the same set up for many years cause I listen to music not equipment. I get that equipment is a hobby but just realize you'll never be satisfied. For many, many audiophiles music is just a means to listen to equipment.

[@williemack6287]

This was a very informative and descriptive review. It definitely provided insight into what you can expect to experience in your room with proper set up. How was the sound of the Magico affected by not being actually mounted on the feet that are provided with the speaker? I understand the weight of the speaker can be an issue for moving it around, but once you find the proper location, it would be important to install the feet to really get the intended performance and perspective.

[@j.m.harris4202]

Jay, Understanding your Clienteles needs is an Art Form in Itself! Convertible down the Hwy or Super Car on the Autobahn! Great Explanation Video Man!💪

[@jaysaudiolab]

I appreciate that!

[@roberthoffecker7223]

I live in Oakland, about ten miles from Magico in Hayward. Those dudes are super serious about everything. If you are wondering why they cost so much, I would encourage you to take the tour. Love to see the new M6, or (Dog Forbid) the M9.

[@fullranger3435]

Great video, the value of sharing your exclusive experiences with the best of the best equipment is very unique and of the rarest! Is it possible that your comparison with the M series includes the acoustic memory of a less well treated room?

[@jaysaudiolab]

Absolutely!

[@stifoli]

I prefer having the flexibility and comfort at that price point. It gives a sensation of arrival…..

[@BeyondResolution]

Totally understand and agree with your take on the SE17.. i have heard many quite expensive Sonus Faber.. and of course they are beautifully made, but sound from them has allways for me been warm and romantic.. easy to hear they are coloured.. and to be honest i almost fall asleep everytime i hear Sonus Faber.. :)

[@jaysaudiolab]

Thanks for sharing!

[@Smood47]

This has to be a record for the most audio stuff in the smallest space possible

[@stephanem.2268]

Very good video Jay! Thanks again. I would rather own the Magico Q7 because more easy to "transform" using different sources / cables / gears

[@marclajeunesse3890]

It would be something to hear these speakers in rooms that they were designed for . That's the problem with ultra high end 😒 the most expensive component by far is the room .

[@peterw2714]

The Sonus Faber is gorgeous comparing the two. Because of that, that would be my first choice, but there’s nothing like hearing them in person.

[@MrBoomtheroom]

2:46 whats that mark on the woofer?? 😬😬

[@jaysaudiolab]

Don’t worry - don’t be OCD

[@jaysullivan9545]

Very informative Jay, thank you! What a choice! Not sure which one I'd own. Truthfully, I probably would seek something that blends both properties. AlsyVox planars maybe. 🐻

[@jaysaudiolab]

Right on!

[@MrBonger88]

Sonus Faber definitely knows how to make beautiful, almost work of art like , speakers

[@brentcollins9727]

“This speaker deserves premium fuel only. If you can, buy race gas for it”. Haha!! Love it!!

[@jaysaudiolab]

Yes sir !!! 😂

[@dylancoleman4576]

The best looking Sf speaker to date. 9/26/24. Cool that you got a turn. I get it when you say two ends of the room. I want 2 things with hifi. Celine Dion and the Chemical Brothers. Even if you go with one amazing speaker (that will never exist) you will have to adjust it for both. “Hey robot adjust speakers to do sound curve #2.” It’s all fixed. Keep it up dude you’re the best! It would be awesome if you could do some real recordings before these move on… you know KZbin memories.

[@peterrichard3706]

The way I see it ! Ones for looking at, ones for listening to. If ya got a large room. I'll take the black ones.

[@quma001]

Somehow your description of the sound matches the look of the speakers

[@SAGNI0971]

My daily dose of unintentional audiophile satire ! Thank you !

[@fabfour19641]

** Great work

[@rrd1975]

I'm not sure how high up the amplifier chain you must go for the Q7s, but I bet that a old Krell 402 will drive it with gusto. I must admit that this amp runs damn hot!

[@tomdebeck8150]

Great review. I hope you can review Marantz model 10 integrated, you should contact them.

[@fabfour19641]

lol! Keep up the great! We all love the hobby… the music and the gear .

[@jaysaudiolab]

Thanks! Will do!

[@geminijinxies7258]

Is it possible to run the Q7 fully active? Cos that would be mind-blowing for sure with extreme dynamics, control and usually even deeper bass.

[@samuelcain5426]

Jay have you ever tried FM Acoustics electronics and spkrs ?

[@jaysaudiolab]

Nope

[@TheGwt3]

I really enjoy these videos and product discussions. But the room is so small and stuffed with equipment that interferes with the sound. I think he would experience greater sound improvements from changing the room.

[@jaysaudiolab]

Noted!

[@mysticrythems2112]

Jay what is your recollection of comparing magico you have in lab compared to Suprema. I'm leaning towards Suprema but your explanation of your magico makes me want it.

[@jaysaudiolab]

If you are considering something that expensive, why not consider a consultation with me ?

[@mysticrythems2112]

@@jaysaudiolab I have been discussing with Adrian in Toronto and Mike in Arizona and a local dealer here on Vancouver Island. I have all Simaudio reference gear (a pair of 888') driving BW 801D4 with the BW subs. I am considering 2 888's aside for Suprema subs and a single 888 for the towers.

[@jaysaudiolab]

@@mysticrythems2112 cool then

[@mysticrythems2112]

@jaysaudiolab thus system is great but the 801D4 is a massive choke for what's behind thm

[@mysticrythems2112]

@jaysaudiolab No no....I didn't reject the discussion with you. It would be my privilege.

[@net_news]

Didn't hear these particular models but Magico sound is not my thing too analytical for me. I think I would go for the SF without a doubt, they look amazing also.

[@jaysaudiolab]

Fair enough!

[@VinnieMoore1986]

Hello Jay, which tweeter sounds clearer, more open and concise, for example with hi-hat from the drums. Thank you

[@jaysaudiolab]

Both!

[@royli3260]

Unfortunately I'm not one of the folk who has made the transition from Magico to Sonus Faber nor vice versa (except perhaps in my fantasies/dreams!). As for which one I'd have (& if we overlook the fact that both would not be suitable for my lounge) if I could get them to work (so assuming I now have both fantasy system and fantasy listening room) influenced by what you've said too about their respective characters; I'd might just prefer the Sonus Faber as it has most of what the Magico can do but with the added ability to perhaps charm and movethe music in a way that is perhaps more evocative in its presentation of the two. That being said, either pair would look great in any fantasy listening room - also both would be complete pains to move around due to their immense weight/statures - not for the faint-hearted! Keeping up the good work - am loving this recent set of vids!

[@jaysaudiolab]

Thank you 🙏

[@allardvanderstarre]

interesting: one speaker is more inviting;the otheris more functional in a sense thatit reveals what the other equipment does, which might work better inthe Lab....dilemmasi guess....; but as a music lover i might lean towards the sonus faber....

[@SonicJourneys-lo1rk]

Have you tried Legacy Valors?

[@jaysaudiolab]

Nope

[@SonicJourneys-lo1rk]

@@jaysaudiolab perhaps you should

[@beyondonethousand]

Hi Jay. Since you got all that in your room right now, how about doing a listening review with using the Apex amps with both sets of speakers and then review the two speakers with the 888s. The review should be how each of the four listening sessions compare and contrast. These review sessions should not be a vs b. Just what you are hearing. This would be nice and fun for all of us.

[@jaysaudiolab]

Maybe

[@D65Cinder11HDR]

Let's #go 💪 🌋 💪 🌋 💪 🌋 💪 🌋 💪

[@gil3green]

Do the XVX's get a room in the dream house or are they kicked out of the top gun club?

[@jaysaudiolab]

They are also a dream speaker

[@michaela.5363]

So I can't use Crown amps with Magico Q7?

[@jaysaudiolab]

Unfortunately not

[@dajikbatarang1]

Sounds like the sonus fabre is a speaker to relax to, that would be my preference. Magico sounds like more of sensory overload.

[@RoniSilva-d4l]

I like both, for different days if I have the money. Jay have you heard Canton reference speakers?

[@jaysaudiolab]

Hell nah

[@RoniSilva-d4l]

@@jaysaudiolab😂I know is different league, but maybe surprise you for the price, I have old Canton ref 3.2 with MC 501’s . 2022 Florida audio show was a room with Canton ref. 5k but the setup wasn’t great. Thanks

[@eladioflores3748]

I heard this speaker when it first came out at a private studio in Berkeley California and I was super blown away I had no idea how special it was is. Went home thinking my system needed a major upgrade ever since i been trying to replicate the fantastic experience. At the time I had Sonus Faber Elibsa speakers and luxman amps. Jay just out of curiosity wondering how much is your electric bill?

[@jaysaudiolab]

About $600 a month

[@henryradtka5480]

I would love for you to compare the Von Schweikert Audio ULTRA 11 loudspeaker with the Magico and Sonus Faber. MSRP is $360,000. Heard these at the Capital Audio Fest a couple years ago and they are breathtaking, open, huge soundstage and bass is outstanding at all volume levels.

[@jaysaudiolab]

Interesting

[@stockmarketman]

Out of curiosity, where does your previous Wilson Chronosonics sound compared to the above mentioned speakers. Those 3 speakers that if I had to give a nickname would be the "Holy Trinity (best of the best) of Speakers". Thanks Jay for the content.

[@jaysaudiolab]

Second best speaker for me

[@tomdudnyk3235]

@@jaysaudiolabwhich is first?

[@jaysaudiolab]

Watch my channel and you’d know

[@hindagsxr]

Difficult choice, low bass when you watch a movie but not very loud is important. Then the question is whether both maintain the fluidity of emotions but also give anxiety, drama of emotions (I mean dynamics and on the bass in the midrange and at the top. It will probably also depend on the quality of the amplifier. I think that I would choose Sonus.

[@MotownAudio]

Jay I need your honest opinion, I’m thinking about getting the Sonus Faber Stradivari G2 and for amps the McIntosh 1.25 do you think this combo is great and have you ever heard these speakers before, from what I hear they need serious Power to wake them up,, and yes everyone wishes they could play with the equipment you have so I have no idea how anyone can talk negatively about what you do, they should appreciate it

[@jaysaudiolab]

@@MotownAudio consider my consultation

[@MotownAudio]

Ok do I pay for that ? How do I go about it do you have a special membership for that

[@pizzaearthpancakesandother2549]

The one Jay likes more is the one he'll make more profit on when he flips them 💯 keeping it real here guys

[@jaysaudiolab]

Yes you are a genius ! Wow !!

[@craigenputtock]

The Sonus Faber is beautiful.

[@riccitone]

Both outstanding, definitely. But unless most of win the lottery or come into serious $$$$$$? 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@johnshaw359]

It's a pity your amps don't have any tone controls or a loudness button to compensate for what is known as the 'Fletcher Munson curve'. It compensates for defects in human hearing where treble and bass are difficult for us to hear at very low levels. Known as the 'Fletcher Munson curve' where both are boosted to compensate for low level volume.

[@robbase-f6x]

" I had no choice - but to buy it " - Jay

[@excellentlife94]

Have you ever thought of branching into headphones ?

[@jaysaudiolab]

Don’t want to

[@JRadian]

Well-recorded sound samples would be very helpful..

[@_944audiophile]

And then there was the world beaters, Vivid Moya M1’s.

[@SonicJourneys-lo1rk]

Or lyngdorf B model

[@ilaion11]

Definitely Kharma Veyron 4D or 2D! 1D I consider to be overkill in terms of size and weight, for me at least. Why Kharma? Because the have some special drivers, the woofers and lower midrange drivers are made of special carbon fiber membrane, and the most interesting of them all, the motor design is something to hold your breath. Magico uses Morel motors in their drivers, but Kharma has almost 0 inductance in their motors and that is indeed incredible! Then there are the higher midrange and tweeters that are made out of diamond at Accuton. If you think beryllium sounds good, after you hear diamond domes you would reconsider your choices. Tidal is very good too, same Accuton highs and mids. Though, I would also be very interested in Børresen 05 Cryo Edition! They too have special motor design that lowers the inductance by 10 times compared to the best classic motor designs out there, and I am talking Morel/Magico. 1) Kharma Veyron 4D or 2D 2) Børresen 05 Cryo Edition

[@belfort777]

Jay you look like little dude from cartoon between those huuuuge components :)

[@jaysaudiolab]

I am!

[@KT88gs]

If the Magico falls over and you are sitting near it you are dead,this speaker kills you LOL!

[@batomatovic6286]

Test. Elac Concentro ❤

[@jaysaudiolab]

Great suggestion!

[@TomNord1]

Jay: have you ever heard the B+W 801D4?

[@jaysaudiolab]

Nope

[@detlevpomp]

Welch gigantisches Equipment! Dreamtheater!👍👍🎵🎶💎

[@VinnieMoore1986]

I like more Sonos Faber Colour and Design.

[@roybatty6368]

Letssss goooooooo

[@SonicJourneys-lo1rk]

We wait for Moya M1 together with Opera Only 1.6M usd amp and kronos turntable

[@martymcfly3837]

SF all the way. Magico design little to conservative. Like VW Phaeton. SF reminds me of Maserati❤ just my opinion, both products are on TOP.

[@huskydogg7536]

I'll pair the Magicos with a pair of Fosi ZA3's and take my chances 🤣🤣🤣

[@Smood47]

6:30 this is what you say about every new component you get

[@robbase-f6x]

This is an advertisement channel where he sells product ,,,,,,, I don't think he hides the fact ,

[@Smood47]

@@robbase-f6x lol

[@IgnoranceBegetsConfidence]

"Let's watch first I suppose

[@Konstantin283]

Jay, hi! all your latest system recordings sound like each piece of music was mastered by the same person with the same plugins, like the recording was done with the same microphones. the vocalists have the same timbre color, the bass has the same texture every time. this sound used to be called heavily colored. not for criticism... with love from Russia

[@jaysaudiolab]

Thanks 🙏

[@stefanhooss2822]

Greetings from Germany

[@jaysaudiolab]

Thanks for coming

[@theprisonier]

The thing I understand from your listeners, the Sonus make music more better than the Magico (probably too analytical and less musical). So sorry for magico but Sonus has my vote. Don’t know yours but listened to small models of magico and Sonus and I agree, Sonus makes music magico let you listen to your system your cable etc. My vote is for music.

[@bhupendraparekh6225]

Of the 2, it would take me half a second to choose the Sonus. Yeah heard neither, but something about Sonus Faber thats, err magic. Magico probably are great, appeal to mind maybe, Sonus speaks to the heart. Saying that, id go ATC, and save a whole bunch of money. I remember magico mini a while back, that design looks so much better than darth Vader look of these magicos.

[@1997inspire]

Actually the Magicos look like Darth Vader's pet aliens

[@adaboy4z]

I need a Rated X speaker.

[@Cincy3]

Gonna need a bigger room.

[@raymaksimavicius4902]

Vandersteen 7s blow both speakers away!!!😊

[@c34webb]

Bahahha!

[@DrBroncanuus]

Once you've heard any Sonus Faber ....you cannot go back to any other brand...... I deeply regret letting go of my SF Extremas

[@dubsydubs5234]

You'd think speakers at that price wouldn't need separate subwoofers.

[@kurthill7030]

I'm there already you haven't got my system and speakers 😂😅

[@word2RG]

baller status, cant deny.

[@endrizo]

well..there must be something in the middle.