Klipsch Heresy IV Review - What does 3 Grand Sound Like?

[@cheapaudioman]

I was remis when I didn't thank both Ron from New Record Day and Safe and Sound for making this happen. Without those two I wouldn't have had this opportunity. Check out www.safeandsoundhq.com for any of your hifi needs.

[@arena_rock_man9030]

Randy, before you purchase a pair of the Klipsch Heresey's, you should try the KLH Model 5's first.

[@cheapaudioman]

@@arena_rock_man9030 would love to. And I won’t be buying either of them any time soon... although I’d like to

[@arena_rock_man9030]

@@cheapaudioman I wonder if Andrew Robinson would allow you to borrow his KLH model 5's?

[@andreassouth1523]

@@cheapaudioman You should try the Wharfedale Linton Heritage. Similar speakers in style and size but almost 1/3 of the price .... !!!

[@Ceko]

@@andreassouth1523 are those also horn loaded? No? Oh.. not the same then.

[@cheapaudioman]

During the video I said that these were "walnut". The actual color is "distressed oak". And they look super cool.

[@qwkimball]

Nothing sexier than oak with an inferiority complex.

[@RafaelPernia]

Ok? Ok.

[@stevezeidman7224]

Great review Randy. People have commented you’ve lost your cheapness. I don’t think reviewing one high end product you’ve admired for years cancels your hundred or so cheap audio videos. Do what you want.

[@cheapaudioman]

Thanks, brother. I've said it in other comments that out of more than 200 videos 3 have been $999 or higher. That's les that 1.5%. Pretty good average. And frankly I'd challenge anyone to find another youtuber that has listened and reviewed more products under $600 in the last two years. I've done that in 6 months.

[@Gary_M]

I think most people are just joking around, not really being critical or anything.

[@therealboofighter]

@@cheapaudioman there is the thought that you need to listen to expensive speakers to know if the cheaper speakers compare.

[@megamond]

@@therealboofighter Some used early JBL Eons would be comparable in efficiency and low cost, as a comparison, but Randy reviews new stuff? The Home Theatre bloggers were blown away by using high efficiency, modestly priced Behringer PA speakers as L+C+R (and surrounds). Not unlike the efficiency of some PA style Cerwin Vega home speaker towers a while back.

[@broadwaychris]

Don't listen to the idiots do what you want. Sometimes audio costs more than we want it to. Keep your eye open for a good used deal. That's all.

[@kenhurstmedia]

A lot of people don’t take into account what houses were like when Paul Klipsch designed his line of horn loaded speakers. Most homes had rooms with convenient corners - very few open concept houses around then - and in the early 60s carpet was kind of the new thing with many people moving away from hardwood floors. The rooms these speakers are placed in makes a huge difference in how they sound (as of course it does with every other speaker).

[@JedWunderli]

I have a pair of Klipsch Forte's that I got back in '86 or '88 or sometime around them. I fell in love with them when I heard them and had to. get them. I've had them for 30+ years and they are still going strong. They are very efficient and the sound is fantastic. I paid around $1,100 for them back then and I just saw that the latest version (which I don't think look quite as good as mine) are going for $4,998/pair. WOW. Glad mine are still going strong.

[@1234abcd7799]

Original owner of a pair of Heresy II raw birch. Paid $799 CAD. If I wanted to sell the I could get the same or more.Not many other makers could say the same.

[@royalway12]

You have the speaker equivalent of a 1967 Corvette L88. In other words, you're quite fortunate, and should never part with those.

[@Deepsouth34]

I own the Heresy IVs. I had the opportunity to audition them against some other serious speakers. I didn’t imagine that I would buy them after saving up for high end speakers for a while. They were simply better. I have them powered by Conrad Johnson tube gear. It’s really just perfect.

[@royalway12]

Your thoughts on getting these for a Marantz SR6015?

[@Deepsouth34]

@@royalway12 man I would just love to have a good opinion for you, but my gear is just so far away from what you have I don’t think my opinion will help you at all. My set up is for audio only. It’s two channel. My gear is tube gear, both pre and power amp. Klipsch is known for pairing optimally with tubes. I worry with your Marantz that you’re using it for audio and HT. For HT you might want crazy bass that the IVs may struggle with. If you’re just looking for audio and two channel, I recommend these.

[@plaubelmakina8916]

I got my pair of Heresy III's slightly used for $1,200 in Black. Coupled with a new Willsenton R8 with the upgraded L34's for $1,100K, I think I hit a cheapguy home run. I use an old 15" Definitive Technology sub for the missing octave down low. If you have spent many hours in small venues clubs listening to live music, the Heresy's may be for you.

[@thomasschafer7268]

😂😂4.400€ no deep bass.🙈🙈🙈

[@scottlowell493]

@@thomasschafer7268 Dude...there are speakers costing upward of 50 grand that have no deep bass. Not kidding.

[@carewser]

@@scottlowell493 Like what?

[@waterlife.1905]

Used gear is the way to go. Tried and tested, broke in, and leaves you money for more gear. You can always upgrade to new drivers for the horns and get a brand new sound. But they won't be broken in.

[@carewser]

@@waterlife.1905 I agree that used gear is the way to go, i've made some amazing deals over the years and saved myself tons although i'm skeptical about sound changing with use because why does the sound only ever get better? Makes no sense to me along with the fact there's never been a shred of data to prove it's real

[@dougg1075]

Good honest unbiased review. This is getting to be my favorite... no ! This is my favorite review channel. It really is a hot Rod speaker.

[@billhorrigan4388]

I bought my H3s about 6 years ago. $500 used, but well cared for and even had the original boxes. I love these speakers! The clarity is amazing. I had to upgrade my turntable after getting these because I could hear all the extra noise coming through the needle. I too have the Onkyo TX 686 abd they sound excellent at regular volumes. The amp does start clipping when I turn it up high. Being a bass player I much prefer the type of tight bass sounds that I get from these speakers. And they pair well with my subwoofer. Yes I ride Harleys too.

[@jodyholland5687]

Thanks for the Heresy review. I’ve had my Heresy’s since the early 80s. I bought them unfinished in raw birch, stained them with a walnut and tongue oil. Mine are non ported with the older screw-on terminals. I also bought the optional slant risers. I’m powering them with 2 channel Yamaha RX 397 receiver, Sony direct drive turntable and Logitech Bluetooth adapter to play from my iPhone. To my 73 year old ears, the Heresy’s still kick ass!

[@fw1421]

I love my Klipsch Heresy I’s made in 1979. I’ve wanted a pair for so long and I found a really clean,un damaged pair a couple months ago. Wonderful sound.

[@barryk.5937]

Hey Randy - thanks for this - it may be the best review of these speakers I've seen to date! I've owned a pair (in Black Ash, BTW - yes, there are reasons "someone would buy these in black"... :) ) Anyway, my experience has been the same as yours - I thought I'd have to return them when I first listened to them, but they just kept getting better with every listening session, and after 2 months, they just keep getting better! You described them well - they're just "different", and yes, they are special! They make music sound the way I like it - I love 'em!! You should definitely get a pair...

[@cheapaudioman]

Thanks and I will probably have a pair someday. right now any extra cash is going to buying things to review for the viewers and less about what I personally want. My recent DIY speakers have been my to for personal listening.

[@maegnificant]

@Nicholas break in is a hoax. it makes no sense at all, that degradation of tiny mechanical parts will a) always better the sound of a speaker and b) change the sound at all in a humanly perceivable way.

[@johncain3212]

This is the best Klipsch Heresy 4 review I have seen online. Thank you? I have. A pair of Heresy IV speakers and can say they take about one thousand hours of playing to fully break in. Same goes for their RP 600M II speakersp that I own And they are absolutely incredible if you can space them correctly. One foot from the wall and 7 and a 1/2 feet apart and 7 feet away from you.That may sound perfect. The Heresy's also sound good with a lot more thump and way more volume. With the volume only halfway up, you will get a visit from the police if you play 'em very long., something the RP600,s won"t do. The old Klipsch add, "Pissing off neighbors since 1946" still holds true today. And it's the first time I ever heard it and it's true. Thank you for the comparison.,"klipsch is the Harly-Davidson of speakers" and I couldn't agree more, just ask my neighbors. And yes, mine are black!

[@csj9619]

I'm a big fan of Klipsch (Heresy, Cornwall and Klipschorn) and HLCD speakers in general, but not having an abundance of disposable income, I looked for lesser expensive alternatives. My favorite was found in the DIY "Econowave" speaker. It uses a 12" prosound midbass and 1" horn-loaded compression driver with waveguide. Build cost for the pair is roughly $500. I doubt anything in the retail market costing double that can compete.

[@dougg1075]

Had mine for over a year now and loving these things. They are midrange machines that when paired with a good sub sound amazing. Willsenton r8 makes for a good match. Part of the family now.

[@caseybryant7409]

I notice my listening preferences tend to align with yours Randy, so with that being said I really appreciate the honest in depth review.

[@usetheforkluke827]

I have my H4s for nearly a year now. I love them, I bought recently a REL 9Ti sub for them and now this can really be the last rig in your life. I spend few days to set it up but now everything has more body and authority. Nothing from the great midrange and highs is lost, and actually they sound even better. Eg well mixed drums are super realistic. Strongly recommend a sub for these (as actually for all spekaers), blend it in properly and you will not stop listening.

[@BobTrainor]

Same here! I went with the Rel T5 and it ROCKS! Can’t stop listening.

[@BobTrainor]

Heresy IV, Willsenton R8 w\stock KT88s (have a set of EL34s on the way) Pontus II , BlueSound 2i. Great rig!! Would buy it all again.

[@jefffeith4201]

Love my Heresy IV! I agree with what you said they are different, interesting and special. Thanks for your review. I bought from Ron (Safe and Sound) and he was great.

[@nickscapellato8248]

I own the MK IVs and all I have to say is that they're extremely fussy and will sound like different speakers depending on the room and especially with what type of amp you pair them with. I've tried a number of amps and when it's good it's sublime and when it's bad it's..."interesting" to borrow from your review!

[@robertdepesci3418]

which amp did you find is best for the MKIV?

[@cjdontthink2]

I just picked up Heresy IIIs for $750 second hand in very good condition and have them paired with my dual svs sb1000 and I am in love. I only have them powered by a denon AVR right now, but they are worlds better than my rp600ms that got moved to surround duty.

[@jasonreyes9504]

I’ve been waiting for this one. 👍👍

[@thehighend4545]

Hi Randy, love the channel sir! I own these and Klipschorn cornerhorns, it only gets better the further up you go lol. The 3d thing is absolutely true with horn speakers. That is the lack of distortion at work. Mathematically speaking, distortion has a 1:1 relationship to efficiency. Less speaker movement. The higher the efficiency, the lesser amount of distortion. With 99 db, you hear the little details, the minute differences in volume of the mix which translates to depth. Love horns, nothing like them when done right. Good review sir, spot on.

[@johnstuartsmith]

And, with 99db efficiency, these and other horn speakers can be driven to decent levels, with a lot of dynamics by lower-powered amplifiers. Go for amp quality over more watts than the Klipschs need. Klipsch speakers have the dynamics and detail to do a fabulously realistic job of reproducing the "KERCHUNK!"sound of a 1960's car door slamming.

[@Teachering]

I enjoyed your review, cheapaudioman. You offer a different and unique angle apart from other reviews on the Klipsch Heresy IVs that I've listened to. At the end of the review, I felt trust in your judgement of these speakers. You are honest and truthful.

[@ginom407]

Honest Review, this is why we watch!!! Love the Harley reference as I've had this discussion regarding what choose to ride. Great Review👍👍👍

[@Teachering]

I like your review. LOL I only now realize that I commented a year ago on this same review. I am glad that I gave you a listen once again.

[@odwatchguy]

Great review Randy, I really liked your comparison to Harley-Davidson. I think that Klipsch tweaks the Heritage line to stay current, but never loses the vision that Paul W. Klipsch started with. Glad you enjoyed your time with them.

[@bltodd578]

I come to cheap audio man because he is the man. A man that drinks coffee and sounds like a restless father that looks forward to closing his eyes and listening to the right tracking feeding the soul, escaping reality. I also the same as cheap audio man. Thank you for this channel I throughly enjoy you reviews.

[@naimie0509]

Paired with a good tube amplifier, in my case a Line Magnetic 211 iA, the Heresy IV is an absolute dream team. This plastic openness and transparency in the mid-high range is unique. I like listening to live recordings, you can literally reach into the stage. The audiophile virtues such as resolution, localization and spatiality are also at a very high level with the Heresy IV. Other loudspeakers, even high-quality ones, often bored me relatively quickly, but this is completely different with the Heresy IV, these are captivating and you feel like you are right in front of the stage.

[@brochg]

Fantastic Heresy review, Randy!

[@zephxiii]

Thought it was awesome seeing you testing out higher tier levels, can't wait to see your La Scala Review!!!!!!!

[@hoth2112]

That's a really honest review, Randy. It was interesting to see you actually struggle to have words to say. I've had a similar experience before as well when experiencing open baffle for the first time, and I'm honestly still trying to wrap my head around it..

[@surfersilver6610]

If you wrap your head around the open baffle then it will be enclosed and no longer be 'open' and your baffled-ness experience will go away defeating the whole purpose and point of the open 'BAFFLE'. If you are not baffled by an open baffle speaker then it's not baffling hard enough and does not qualify as such...it's back to the open drawing board for that company's R&D.

[@hoth2112]

@James Fisher what is?

[@hoth2112]

@James Fisher Then I guess you haven't heard good open baffle speakers, cuz they certainly do exist.

[@thereefaholic]

New to your channel so I don’t know what speakers you have listened to. But it sounds like you have discovered what turns people into audiophiles. That discovery of a great soundstage. Not all that conman in “cheap hifi”

[@DougMen1]

One of the first rules of box design is that the more sensitivity you want, the more bass extension you give up. So, none of the big Klipsch speakers go really low. Even the K'horns only go down to around 35-40hz.

[@crazymetallian]

maybe the fortes have a dynamic bass (but they do have a really aggresive and sybiling high frequencies which i didin't like)

[@scottlowell493]

The la scala roll off hard starting at 100hz.

[@scottlowell493]

@@crazymetallian Forte II are better than I, but what they need is a better tweeter and crossover like the forte III/IV. The forte I and II used a crappy polymer tweeter that broke up and just sounded nasty.

[@bcrigg9388]

Loved This Honest Review Sir Randy! I hope you make time to live with the Klipsch Cornwall IV for a few weeks as well. A Very Special Sound indeed…

[@bigelile07]

I bought a pair of Klipsch Heresy speakers in 1980 that I still own to this day. A lot of people don't like their sound because of their harshness (bright sound). The amp/receiver that you use makes a huge difference. Over the years they have been hooked up to several amps/receivers of different brands. They definitely sound better on older equipment. The end game for me as far what they sound the best with is a Marantz 1090 integrated amp that I found at a thrift store about 20 years ago for $30. Had to have the caps replaced which was about $100. I don't know what it is about the Marantz but they sound incredible.

[@dougg1075]

I have been on the HiFi merry go round for years , looking for “ refined” sound and I have all the usual suspects in speakers but found myself bored with the hobby, took a chance on the Heresy IVs and I haven’t had this much fun in the hobby since I started. Waiting on my Wilsenton R8 to go with them now. I do have a bad A Sub connected also, I’m done for a long time. I’ll keep these forever and if I get another set, it will be Cornwalls.

[@christinearmington]

Yes. Willsenton is here. Waiting for the Fortes! 😁🤩😎

[@Thevinylhead]

You gave me goosebumps. A true review which I can relate to. What you say is how my Heresy iv sounds like. Theese are going to the grave with me.

[@FlyGuy457]

Bought em, and after a month of placements and equipment switching out, I couldn't wait to sell them. Oh well, can't be right all the time.

[@sabrowenie]

Good honest review. For years I’ve had 1978 Heresy’s, with the Crites upgrades, on my main system. Always wondered how they would stack up against a newer version. Got a chance last week. Hauled mine down the street. Put them on a neighbor’s high end theater system with VI’s. Didn’t do blind testing, just ran the same tracks on Tidal twice. Everything is subjective, but both of us agree the differences are minor. Slightly better low end on the VI, which is to be expected with the reworked x-over and bass port.

[@jerryrodriguez5431]

I bought my Heresy 4s new a year ago. I sold them in Oct. In my main room, I just never felt a connection. I missed the scale of my Maggie 1.7s. The 1.7s are back in my room. In my basement set-up, the Heresies sounded much better. However, I couldn't justify $3k speakers in my budget basement system. Oh well. Anyway, I really like your content.

[@joew94th]

I'm 64 so there's not that much left of "tomorrow". I have a pair of the Heresys IV just like you're showing here. I paid retail for them. I also have a pair of Altec Lansing Model 5. I paid $75 for the pair. Back in 1978 I was a soldier in West Germany on my way to the PX to buy a pair of Heresys. Before I was able to pull out my wallet I saw the vender hooking up a pair of Altec Lansing Model 9 series II. When I heard them I fell in love. I left the Klipschs on the showroom floor and went home with the Altecs. If you ever run into a pair of them (Model 9 or model 5), buy them, or at least listen to them.

[@B.B.Digital_Forest]

Thanks for name dropping Tool. I never heard of them before, so I hope one day to hear their music on a serious sound system.

[@waterlife.1905]

Excellent review, I can understand your topics and you speak about interesting things. Subscribed.

[@vapingwithjames3370]

Love the tune you use for your intro’s. Great video

[@TonicofSonic]

The artist formerly known as "cheapaudioman" Now goes by "audioman"

[@earlismarks7108]

😃😂

[@robk5745]

Impossible not to happen lol

[@dougg1075]

Cheap is a relative term

[@miata1492]

@@dougg1075 Yes, cheap is relative. For me, "cheap" means of shoddy, careless workmanship, substandard materials, etc. Inexpensive, on the other hand, means value regardless of actual money paid.

[@TonicofSonic]

@@robk5745 so true, this guy is a content making beast it's no suprise he ran out of cheap products to talk about and ended up making connections with people who are into higher end audio who can borrow him stuff to review. Cheapaudioman FTW

[@surfersilver6610]

I setup a system that had Klipsch LaScala's (96db)and when I muted the JVC Receiver you could STILL hear the program coming out of the speakers(like someone talking loudly on the other end on a smart phone where you can hear it from feet away). I thought the receiver muting circuit was damaged until I realized *the speaker is so efficient* it was able to amplify the leakage current to where it was audible.

[@jamesepler7156]

Very good review. A special speaker. Spot on...can't go wrong with a Klipsch review.

[@SinnerSince1962]

Randy, I am a true believer in one concept: A person's brain will adapt to the speaker you are listening to. It will become an acquired taste, much like that developed for wines, beers, or coffee. I have listened to many speakers that seemed to get better the longer I listened to them. In fact, what was likely happening, was my brain was adapting to the sound and pulling the most out of what it was hearing. This phenomenon in perception concerning the ears, eyes, and sense of taste, with the brain adapting, has been proven many times through experimentation. When the brain is hit with something new, it does it's best to normalize that sensation and perfect it. This happens with sound through cochlear implants, eyesight with new prescriptions, and taste when we try new cultural foods (which we hate at first).

[@TheCharlesAtoz]

My favorite review of yours.

[@surfersilver6610]

A problem with Classic Klipsch is that you will hear things due to the 96-104db horn efficiency, that other 85-92db conical speakers cannot reveal. It's a double edged sword. At 96db it's already TWICE as loud as that 92db speaker and 4x as loud as the 85db one at 1 watt per Meter. Most conical speakers are 88-90db. At 104db.....the neighbors are calling the Police(No not the Band, unless you got really cool neighbors. XD 😄). So it may come across as "the speakers are bad" but the truth is the recording and/or your system has problems and/or are creating noise/things that Klipsch amplifies and reveals. I posted previously how I muted a receiver and I could still hear the program out the speakers, at first I thought the mute circuit was broken, they are that efficient. Also they all (the bigger ones especially Chorus, Fortes, Klipschorns)seem to do better in larger (ceiling) rooms and spaced out further apart than in a typical

[@snowrang3r657]

Especially if you plan to keep exploring tube amps would love to see you explore some other high efficiency speakers. Tekton Lore or Zu Omen Dirty Weekend come to mind.

[@marks291]

...and the Mini Lore are only $650, he should be looking at these

[@DDRHeretiC]

@@marks291 I am interested in speakers from tekton as well. I want something to replace my monoprice monolith mm3's. Something that could work nearfield but also can sorta fill a 20 by 15 room up. Mainly be used as I sit in front of my pc but also need to be able to handle being cranked up for workouts/deadlifts in the same room. Go down to 40hz with authority. Mainly metalcore/deathcore/death metal. Something that can handle the bass drops. I love these little mm3's but the bass gets real FARTY when it is deep and moderate to loud volumes. Do not want to add a sub to this setup or area. Max amount spent between the speakers and amp, 800$.

[@tplank216]

Zu dirty weekends ( starting at 1k)and tekton lores (mini lore

[@millercreek79]

I agree! I run Tekton Mini Lore with a Primaluna tube amp and it's a GREAT combo! My next step up in speakers will be larger Tektons, for sure!

[@anonmouse956]

I haven't heard any talk about tekton in a while.

[@careylymanjones]

The Reisong amp rolls off at around 4K, which makes it a wonderful choice any high-efficiency speaker with a treble-heavy response curve. I run mine into Klipsch RB 61 IIs on stands at my computer desk, and I can listen to them for hours at a time. The Reisong paired with Klipsch bookshelf speakers is a match made in Heaven.

[@epi2045]

Love my Zu DW’s with upgraded XO. Latest generation build as of 2021. Really dynamic and easy going. Like the Klipsch, these are high sensitivity which means slightly thinner bass. I have mine paired with a custom 15” sub.

[@blackknight7017]

Excellent review.

[@bigsled12]

Like somebody mentioned these speakers will be loved by listeners ( like me) who have spent many hours in small venues clubs listening to live music because thats exactly what they sound like, A live show. Very real, engaging , intimate , big sound ( think muscle car ) They are very truthful sounding/ less warm and comforting which may turn off some. They are very , very fun if you love live club shows of mixed genre's or heavy vocals. No rap or pop. If you want absolute perfection imaging these may not be for you. Regardless of what anyone says , unless you've did A/B side by side comparison ,these Klipsch compression drivers NEED break-in . They also LOVE tubes ! I'm using SS with tube pre.

[@mikegallagher2732]

What a FUCKING GREAT review randy !!!!! As a Klipsch FAN for 35 years, And owning SEVERAL different models, I think you hit the nail right on the head with these !!! Klipsch ARE an Aquired taste, and for those who like a LIVE sound ...MANY people have a LOVE/HATE relationship with Klipsch in general.. As a musician, I LOVE EM !!!!! THE HARLEY DAVIDSON of speakers ..LOL...AWESOME.

[@cheapaudioman]

Thanks so much.

[@AudioElectronicsChicago]

The classic Heresy speakers 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@gordoa172]

Yo Randy! As always - great honest review. Thanks for keeping it real my man! El Randy!

[@ceo5869]

THANK YOU ! EXCELLENT REVIEW.

[@mikejames-drummerreginacan1386]

The comparison is right on the money....with Klipsch and Harley you buy history and a vibe.

[@rjkrastin]

Best intros in hi/fi KZbin.

[@stevenichols5708]

I agree wholeheartedly with your findings!!! I cannot help but also hearing the huge box. I wanted to like them so much. Still need a sub for that lower octave:(

[@cardamoncommon]

Picked up Klipsch KG4s on Friday with the Crites Tweeter upgrade already installed…$300. I’ve never heard a Heresy, but folks say this beats it…no matter the version. Just wow, thanks for the SVS sound base review; they pair very well. Listening to the Cambridge Audio Speaker Test play list on Qobuz…highly recommend it. I’ve never heard guitar riffs sound so real, female vocals, the bass on kick drums (you can hear the secondary reverberation like when you play them)…SVS ultras had separation, but on KG4s the guitars sound like they’re coming from different amps…and it follows you into the kitchen ha ha. They “center” but on a soundstage that spreads from speaker to speaker. SVS the vocals would be a tight circle up and down a perfect center…my entire wall sounds like it’s the speaker and not in a mushy way. Ultimate, ultimate bang for the buck. Movies are good too, dialogue is clear, very theatrical and “sparkly”…not through the sound base though (maybe the optical input…might try a separate DAC and see if there’s a difference).

[@ultraAsianman]

I had a set of KG4 with same upgrade last year for $375 and I picked up a set of Heresy 2 for $400 early this year. I must say, the Heresy needs a sub but the mid-range and sound stage is much better. Both are in perfect condition and I have a hard time deciding which set to keep or keep both....

[@cardamoncommon]

@@ultraAsianman I’m in a condo, so the KG4s give me a bit of low end that I can’t get otherwise. But…I’ve paired them with a KV3 center and a pair of KG2.5s for rears. Added the Tweeter upgrade to the center and very impressed. Use it for 2.0 music and TV in 5.1.

[@StevePilgrim2013]

Greatest home audio I've heard was Klipsch Kornerhorns with a LaScala center driven by Crown (1975). My acoustics prof invited the class to his home to hear the system in the room he designed & built for them! Amazing. The next "different" speaker has got to be Magnepan. Great review, Randy.

[@stevezeidman7224]

Good friend of mine drove LaScalas with Crown IC and D150 electronics. All of that equipment was pretty awesome to a 22 year old in 1975. Back then, Crown was really high end. People that listen to these professional Crown amps today, don’t know they used to be highly desirable for personal use.

[@michaeltremblay8678]

They cost the same as my first wedding, more than my second. No where near what either of my two divorces cost. No where near!

[@pnichols6500]

Just breaking in a new Wilsenten P8 tube amp, a new pair of Heresy iv and an Master Tracker cart on a MoFi ultradeck.

[@NakeanWickliff]

So glad you finally got to give these a listen. Please please please try this with a good subwoofer. It’s amazing how different speaker can sound who when you fill the lower octaves. The speaker was originally designed to be a center speaker so it needs support down low. Anyhow hope you get to try them with a sub before you send them off.

[@cheapaudioman]

These need to go back so unfortunately I won’t have them long term.

[@NakeanWickliff]

@James Fisher room accoustics don't give a crap about the price you paid for speakers my friend. The fact is that in most rooms you get better and more even bass NOT at the location of your main LR speakers, even if they CAN play down to 20hz. I'd also rather always give my mains more headroom for dynamics by freeing them and my amp of the frequencies that are most demanding.

[@crazymetallian]

i was at an audio show, and between these, the fortes and the La Scala, i think the Herasys were the most fun experience to listen to.... La Scala is amazing but is a very dry sound... almost like a peavy pro speaker (but better in every way)

[@KevinTernes]

Randy, I have a pair of these. They are connected to a vintage Nakamichi PA-7 (200W x 2 @ 8 Ohms) amp. That much power into speakers that efficient can get much louder than I can stand. But I don't care.

[@sound-flies]

Funny because I do love the black:) specially with the grill on

[@V1ZNS.]

Enjoyed this review

[@THEmatthewone]

Just when I didn’t think I could love the vibe of this channel anymore than I already do, “audiophile trees” “they dont RESINate”`. Duck off thats incredible.

[@DA-ou7hv]

I think your generous in your assessment of bass. While I appreciate accuracy and speed in the bass the heresey don't have the reach leaving me unsatisfied. If you gut one they don't appear built well with minimal bracing and odd cabinet resonance. I have had heresey II speaker for 20 years now and they just leave me unsatisfied. They sound better overall at ear bleeding volumes. And it's not my amp. I am driving them with a luxman pre and power amp which sounds amazing with my other speakers. For 3 grand klipsch should up their game on drivers and overall build quality in my opinion.

[@greyorbit]

I drove 3 hours to buy a pair of heresy 1 and thought I'd be done with speakers. 2 hours later they were listed on marketplace again. The horns made my ears bleed and I was underwhelmed. I hooked my large advents back up and was much more happy.

[@mad-beerc3818]

What a contrast in your last two videos! Two type of speakers worlds apart! Interesting stuff on both though!!😉👍

[@JohnScheppler]

I think the Harley reference is perfect for these speakers. Are there better motorcycles, possibly but there's something special about Harley and Indian that you just don't get with Yamaha or Honda. Which the same goes for the Klipsch Hersey speakers just something special. Great Review Randy!

[@brucemitchell5092]

Nice review of these speakers. I own an updated Heresy 2, and these seem to share the same sound. Musical tastes will influence whether someone enjoys these speakers - great for blues, but pretty “meh” if your preferences are something like the “Brandenburg Concertos”.

[@jonuiuc]

After 17 years of the same satellite speakers, I got KLH model 5s last month. So I only know what 2 grand sounds like.

[@TonicofSonic]

17 years... Satellite speakers....bose?

[@jonuiuc]

@@TonicofSonic Old Mirage original Omnisats (the bigger ones with 4" woofers). Was ok with the subwoofer for HT, but always felt a little wimpy in the low midrange/upper bass.

[@jonuiuc]

@@chrisveltman1795 The KLH's are very clear, they don't sound super warm or old fashioned at all. The do have some weight to the sound, and the bass is quite fast. 3 way speakers just present sound different from two way speakers, cause there is no crossover in the midrange and the woofers are only doing woofering. I'd say its a speaker than can go well in a lot of systems cause of sensitivity and the sealed system has less placement issues. The tweeter you can adjust to the room and taste which is nice. Its a nice hi fi speaker that is middle of the road, but leans more to "up front" vs laid back. Dispersion and balance seems well sorted out too, it doesn't need much eq-ing in most normal rooms. If you prefer a more laid back sorta sound, maybe compare to Lintons. For more front row sound, like the Heresys. I was cross showpping with the L82, but it was really 2-Way with deep bass vs a 3 way with just as deep but more agile bass. Some people really prefer the 2 way sound. Maybe those DIY Critons would be the ticket.

[@jonuiuc]

@@chrisveltman1795 The model 5 I would characterize as quite clear and capable of obscene volume with no distortion, but I wouldn't call it warm. Its more "neutral" in the cooler/warm spectrum. Sound has good texture and body. They get along well with a lot of music, but listening to some old badly recorded lo fi pop punk from the 90s, they aren't super smoothing or forgiving, I was chased out of the room by some bad recordings, but I could mitigate that somewhat by turning the KLH's tweeter to low, or setting the Yamaha YPAO to "natural".

[@dsonyay]

The sensitivity of these speakers is close ti 100db I think. The tiniest tube amps will drive them well. I think thats a pretty good plus for the tube heads - the Dekware amp with about 3 wpc works really well with these type speakers

[@jasonsmith9845]

Thanks for this review! I'm a Klipsch man myself (Cornwalls). If you really love them, make it happen! Look for a vintage pair on Craigslist and put in new capacitors... Before the Cornwalls I had KG4s which weren't expensive but had a lot of the same qualities.

[@parttime9070]

They were designed as a center channel, I have a set of gen 1 with rebuilt xovers under my TV.. In the corners are KG4's.

[@philm6674]

Almost bought a used pair n 1990. Well broken in, and smooth like butter. Sadly, just out of my reach at the time. Nice review. Thanks

[@mkshffr4936]

It would be interesting to know how they handle large scale classical and chamber music.

[@svbarr]

Nice review -- the Harley thing makes total sense....When I want to spend stupid dough on new speakers I'm getting a couple CORNWALLS.

[@4earsonly160]

3 years later it's June 2024. Snagged two pair for matched Klipsch forte model 3s.. the price was a no-brainer.. and they are the finest things I've ever heard. And if you look well enough on the internet find a reputable dealer or seller you will be able to find a pair of the 14 model 3s for under $2,500 bucks delivered.. truly love clips but money's money and the forte model 3s are the absolute sweet spot. But your ears will want to hear

[@yuriwalter385]

Soundstage description sounds like you are facing polarity issues. Anyway, loved the Harley Davidson's analogy!

[@frischma1]

I’ve got an old pair of Heresy from the late 70s. A little rough around the edges but the sound is really great.

[@davidfromamerica1871]

If you can get treble in space it will add a whole new dimensional listening experience. Especially if it travels over your head. You don’t hear people talking about it because they never have experienced it. I had experience with that with a car audio system installed in my semi truck. Two speakers in custom made cabinets placed overhead on the top shelves. The first time those tweeters kicked in I literally ducked while I was driving. Those tweeters literally flew over the top of my head. I had a 5 channel system installed all component speakers installed in custom cabinets. All JLAudio.

[@SamuelBarrPhotography]

Great review! I listened to a pair while in the Army back in the 80's. The "knock" on these has always been how they handled vocals. They've gotten much better since then but did the vocals sound like the singers were singing inside of a tunnel?

[@neilfisher7999]

Enjoyed the review. It seems that almost every reviewer really finds a lot to like about these speakers, even if it isn't their favorite. Not sure I would ever spend 3K for a pair of speakers, but I would like to hear these someday. I have a pair of Zu Audio Dirty Weekend speakers ($1K), and they are the best sounding speakers I have ever heard. If you get a chance to hear some Zu speakers check them out.

[@briansimmons5363]

Yes, like to hear about these and lower priced Tektons.

[@antwake]

My new favourite channel! Should be called "Between Two Veneers" 😉 Could you please tell us which amp you used to review the Heresys?

[@davidbartochowski7832]

I would love to have these as an endgame speaker. Great reviews

[@lilpoindexter]

Right on time bro....Im thinking very hard about buying a set for my 50th birthday coming up...

[@gene8933]

if you go to live venues, small jazz,blues, rock clubs. That's what Klipsch Heritage sounds like to me. Pre covid went to 40 shows a year man do I miss it.I have 4 sets of speakers when I want to live I listen to Klipsch. When I want to relax I listen to my other speakers.

[@lmtrades]

which speakers do you relax to ?

[@gene8933]

@@lmtrades I have 2 systems. I can chill with ADS L810 has beautiful lush sound and Hornshoppe horns with decaware horn sub you can play almost any kind of music on these and it sounds good. also have edgarhorn system 80 with edgar seismic sub similar to klipsch but more refined.

[@DrBroncanuus]

nice mug....I always listen to the cheapaudioman....Hear-Threepio

[@bobgoldesberry7740]

I have the first gen of these speakers I bought at a garage sale for 15 bucks. The cabs are not that great but they function great and I have been using them for over 4 years now. A little bright but i use two bass towers in my main setup.

[@bobgoldesberry7740]

By the way what I have found is they do much better at about 3 to 4 foot off the ground.

[@xavierwood2030]

If you get the chance, try comparing it to the KLH Model 5 ($2k); heard it was better.

[@johnnelson3665]

Rich audio man. 😂

[@paulkerr9128]

I've wanted a pair of heresy's or Cornwall's for a long time but they fall into several levels up speaker category in terms of $. I struggle with spending $600 on a pair of speakers, never mind $4500, which is what a pair of Heresy 4's cost here in the great white north. There is no doubt that spending more $ gets you into a different level of speaker experience. There are a lot of good speakers out there in the 3-800$ price range which, arguably, are probably all anyone really needs to listen to music and enjoy good sound, but if you can stomach spending more, you will get more. The question is, is it really worth it to you to spend that sort of $ and what else are you prepared to give up to rationalise spending that kind of $? Then there is the whole issue of system matching. Does it really make sense to run a pair of $4500 speakers through a $300 receiver? Its a slippery slope. Great review. Thanks Randy.

[@johnlegg6661]

Couldn't agree more! Well said. Looking at other comments, looks like people are pairing these with high dollar tube amps which is even a bigger expenditure to get the sound you want or expect. Think I'll stay happy with my klipsch rp-280f paired with my denon avrx3500 and external amp 😃

[@allanflippin2453]

Randy, You've run into Hofmann's Iron Law of speaker cabinets (Hofmann was the "H" in KLH). By choosing 99db sensitivity in a semi-reasonable sized vented cabinet, Klipsch has sacrificed the low end extension.

[@spittindatruthaboutrecords9421]

backin the day when i used to read those stereo magazines i used to lust over the Khorns and the heresys, i also loved the ADS 1290