Kef R3 VS Buchardt S400 Speaker Comparison - Which is better?

[@Jayiyagi]

Disclaimer/ Personal interest in my reviews - nbtsmedia.com/about-us/ Technical Difference 0:36 Placement & Set up 1:55 Low Frequency 2:47 Mid Frequency 4:03 High Frequency 5:36 Low & High Volume listening 6:11 Soundstage and imaging 6:54 Amplification 7:46

[@0BURNT0TOAST0]

Thank you for the in depth breakdown of strengths and weaknesses!

[@Jayiyagi]

@@9XThunder These placements were used for filming only to showcase both speakers.

[@0BURNT0TOAST0]

@@9XThunder I somewhat agree with you, but i have listened to some of the speakers he has reviewed in the past and agree with his opinion on the sound of them. I cannot take it as gospel, but I do take his words in the review as a great opinion to how something sounds. He is an educated person with a large pool of test results and speaker auditions/reviews with a passion for audio gear. So as stated previously I appreciate his hard work and dedication to the community.

[@0BURNT0TOAST0]

@@9XThunderOK, thanks for the input. The OCD HIFI GUY still praises the s400 as a great value speaker. He actually makes an upgraded parts kit for them. I'm only trying to say that reviews like these usually translate well to reality once you listen to both speakers side by side. But everyone had their own opinion, so in my opinion these reviews are a good thing for the person looking to buy a speaker that may not be readily available to audition.

[@0BURNT0TOAST0]

@@9XThunder well unfortunately with the s400 they don't have any brick and mortar stores, so before I take them in for testing I appreciate reviews like these to help not waste anyone's time.

[@Diatonic5th]

The KEF R3 is my next speaker. Great review!

[@fedrichorlandineumann3062]

Me too😇

[@vladimirrusev468]

didn't listen to S400s but have the R3s for more than a year. Its a KEF (had LS50 before the R3) - all their speakers have this a little bit more in the face mids. So i suppose is really about a personal taste. KEF is absolute magic with brass instruments or with violin. Vocals are also more foreword. Wouldn't say they are audiophile ... Hights are some kind of sparkling, but more around 3-6 Khz. Over that they are not soo airy like more high end speakers like dynaudio special 40, or the jet tweeters in elac (or the SCM 11). And even some kind of similar looking the stealth design of the KEFs is just stunning and the quality of the paint is top. The S400s looks more like IKEA furniture :)

[@morespinach9832]

Buchardt in white looks classy Danish understated Scandinavian design.

[@Verrari]

hi what stands did you put it on the r3 looks like a perfect fit?

[@phetmoz]

Love your videos, I subbed and liked. Please compare the Buchardt S400 to the new, quite hyped, Wharfedale Evo 4.2. Thank you very much.

[@masterchef6694]

Or kef r3 Vs Evo 4.2

[@davelemieux2470]

I'm completely mesmerized by Allen Powell's replies. Heading out to the Electrical Store to read some pamphlets to gain a deeper understanding of speaker comparisons.

[@allanpowell7208]

Oh is that sarcasm based on your deep knowledge of bogus terms. Still that is to be expected from someone placing their Rube faith in a guy like this who abandons all reference to specification. Wake up and don't try to be such a smartarse.

[@allanpowell7208]

ps not a deeper understanding, just the basics that this character doesn't think it worthwhile telling you.

[@Ryu288288]

Great review, really helpful. Are you going to review the A21+ amp?

[@stephencosta6814]

Yes I would like a parasound review also

[@clarktown15]

do you think pairing kef r3 to yamaha as801 is a good match?

[@UlrikChristianLarsen]

I like the KEF 3 nice clear sound with a fantastic deep bass.

[@sthr2110]

Hmmm...a $15K USD amplifier to make $2K speakers sound proper. No thanks.

[@TheEnzoferrari12345]

That s wrong, I use it with 800 USD Yamaha RN 803 and they shine with it...

[@jameso.4381]

.... To make a $2 USD song "sound proper" :-p

[@shawnwu3170]

I like the look of R3. It seems that R3 scales even better than S400. And i am hoping for a more revealing sound. So i will pick R3. However, i already got a S400...

[@DanielAnchondo]

I got an S400 as well. Seems my money would be better spent on a better amp since I have a PS Sprout 100.

[@howardskeivys4184]

For me, it’s the R3 all day long. They just sound, well, effortless natural, yet, punchy. Drive them with some decent electronics and they just sing! Importantly, for us apartment dwellers, they retain excellent tonality at lower listening levels.

[@chgofirefighter]

Yup, me too! Kef R3's are amazing! Plus probably cheaper!

[@mjames978]

I had ATC SCM11, SVS Ultras, other Kefs none come close to Kef R3 for these reasons R3 is far more detailed all over, much faster pace, far more dynamic, far more detailed, far better soundstage, flat response and easily boosted. Perfect in any size room. I have a second set of R3 in a small box room and they sound equally good.

[@howardskeivys4184]

@@mjames978 👍

[@robertbrody4032]

Both good speakers. R3 is probably going to please more audiophiles as it does the imaging vanishing act better. You need very good electronics if you want the most from these speakers. The R3 has more headroom for building up a great system.

[@llr3zall151]

I dont know if it's because I know the Buchardt does not have any bracing or the exposed screws or the not so expensive drivers(or at least expensive looking!)... I dont know what it is, but it just looks cheap to me! If I was going to choose, I think Kef R3 is the more solid speaker of the two. Even the 10 year warranty on the Buchardt has not convinced me!!!

[@roadrunner33]

What stands are you using on the kef R3

[@JosephTongret]

I'm in my upgrade stage now. Subs were first. I purchased two SVS SB 3000's and I couldn't be happier. That alone took me three months of debating! Now I want to choose speakers. I currently own Emotiva T1 towers, Elac B6.2's, and Klipsch RP-600m's. I feel like I want to take the next step up in performance from the more budget end of the market. My Budget is $2000 USD for speakers, as it was for subwoofers and will be for amplification. A system budget of $6000 broken into three equal parts. I listen primarily to Hip Hop both old school and some new, and also Classic Rock.(I know this makes me "unworthy" in the eyes of MANY Audiophiles, but that's what I grew up loving and I still believe in high quality audio) I really like the Kef R3's, but I worry that they may not have that "BIG" sound? I'm also considering Revel F36's, but my living room is not that big. We're going to be buying a home in the next couple of years and in my area and price, most homes are not large and don't have large rooms, but there's still that fear that maybe the Kef's may not hold it together at higher volumes with electronic music in even a medium sized room. On the other hand, my room now is about 12x15 feet with 8ft ceilings and the Revel's may be a bit much? I over agonize about these things I'm sure, lol! Maybe I'll just upgrade the amp next to avoid this decision again! First world problems, I know. Right now I'm using a Yamaha RN803, which is nice for the $550 I paid and it was an all in one solution, but I'm certain it won't scale up very well with better speakers. I really like the Parasound NewClassic 200 Pre. That would leave me with about $1300 left for the amplifier section, and it has the high-pass crossover feature which is really cool to me, not to mention that remote control. End Rant. Any advice or suggestions about the R3's, or any other areas of my comment would be appreciated.

[@JosephTongret]

@ray h. I agree with you 100 %, but geeking out over gear is so much fun too! I actually just completed my upgrades. For speakers I ended up with the Revel Performa3 F208's. I went and demoed the F36's, and they were nice, but I really fell in love with the performa3 line. I ended up finding a fantastic second hand pair for $2700. I went with NAD separates, which I purchased blindly without the chance to hear them first. The NAD C658 Digital preamp and the 275BEE amp. The features of the C658 were what really sold me and the combo has turned out to be something I'm happy with. I have a serious love for music and it has such an impact on my quality of life that I'm able to justify the purchases to myself (and fortunately my Wife too). I'm a recovered addict and alcoholic and this hobby has been such an amazing thing for me. The music is like daily medicine for my soul, and the gear gives me an outlet for my obsessive nature, lol! I love the people I have had the chance to connect with, and the "audiophile" hobby has given me a lot of joy throughout my recovery! Thanks for responding man👍

[@garybartlett7690]

Will the Audiolab 6000a amp drive the R3s sufficiently?

[@briancampbell7712]

Had both these... To many Bios reviews...review the Dali Rubicon 2 it's an END GAME! I first auditioned these Buchardt S400 MKll ...sent them back and was charged €100 for return...After auditioning so many speakers I found my END GAME- Dali Rubicon 2 , these have full sound stage and detail with plenty enough bass for now...maybe I'll try a sub in the future...these Dali's blow away even the Sonus Faber... I actually auditioned many speakers in the local privately owned Hi-fi store...

[@tsamyn3589]

thank you, very interesting! Will you do the same between kef ls50 w2 and buchardt A500?

[@musicnexo3114]

What comparison? You just talked. Do you think anyone is going to buy a 2000 $ speakers based on what you say. Play the thing and let the user judge.

[@danieljohansson7897]

The buchardt s400 se (the one in the video) is alot more expensive than the kef r3. Even the standard version of buchardt S400 are more expensive than kef r3 atleast inside EU. I had the Buchardt s400 se, they are very good but i sold them because of the lacking midrange. Voices did not sound as foward and neutral as i wanted so maybe the kef r3 will be a choice for me. Before the Buchardt i had dynaudio contour 20 and they had the best midrange i have heard. Maybe thats why i didnt like the Buchardts midrange. The dynaudios were also more expensive than the Buchardts. The upper bass was very good with the Buchardt and less good with the dynaudios. I hope that the kef r3 will be somewhere between the two.

[@buttonman1831]

How do either of these synergize with Hegel?

[@davidmanu989]

Great work! I ordered a pair of S400s. It was a hard choice between the Kef's and S400's. I need them to double duty with movies so opted for S400's.

[@allanpowell7208]

"Great work" doing what? Having a comparison of speaker without mentioning any of eithers' specs. You can't have gone out and bought based on this guy's babble? Surely not? Did you go get the manufacturer's leaflets for either? Did you listen to either? You are kidding. Happy New Year.

[@K-R-T]

allan powell easy there buddy, may trigger a stroke or something

[@allanpowell7208]

HahahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhHhHHHhhhhhahahahahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhahhhhhhhhhh. Is that what passes for wit in your village?

[@allanpowell7208]

ps I hope it triggers the realisation in young naive inexperienced music listeners that this guy posts nonsense and worse than that, some people mistake it for expertise. Are you one of the "musicality" morons?

[@K-R-T]

allan powell oh wow.. you actually are old.. take care buddy...

[@oluhamilton2121]

This may sound like heresy, but couldn't you compensate with EQ on either?

[@MrDesmoDuc]

Hi, great comparison videos, really enjoy them! One question though, have you ever paired the S400 with Hegel? Think Mads is a bit ambivalent when it comes to those two together. Since you are a Hegel and S400 fan it would be nice to get your thoughts on that. Keep up the great work 👍👍

[@tjp444]

Yeah, a Hegel amp would have been an ideal amp. I've heard that Hegel often uses KEF speakers at audio shows.

[@brianw3822]

I have them running on my Luxman right now. I also have a Hegel that I want to try but to switch them out one day.

[@Wenslauw]

I don’t like Hegel on the R3s. It sounds very cold to me and it’s hard to get involved with the music. Just my opinion though, others might like it.

[@cliffordcostley9798]

@@Wenslauw You might consider the Belles Aria. See the review in the Steve Hoffman forum. It could that amplifiers with very high damping factors work against some high analytical speakers.

[@cosmonaut9942]

I had both speakers and reallly liked the R3 but I like the S400 better so I sold the R3. The R3 has all frequencies going for it but the S400 puts it all together in a more pleasing, and addicting, way. It's more euphonic to my ears. This is not knock on the R3 but I couldn't see owning both. I use a Cary SLP-98 pre into a Cary CAD 280sa V12R to power the speakers.

[@allanpowell7208]

"addicting" what the f....... Is that a musical term or an electrical term or a frequency term. Stop talking like a pretencious twat.

[@rosstee]

@@allanpowell7208 I think he meant "addictive". You really spammed the comments on this video but I tend to agree with you on the word "addicting". It seemed to pop up a few years ago and made huge numbers of internet users instantly forget a more appropriate word has always existed.

[@oohtob6685]

Just a question about the kefr3. Would you use the internal links or external jumpers. Thanks.

[@nicholasgeorgeliatos1529]

Informative and helps you understand the differences easily. Both great speakers, it’s a close call and even though I’m a fan of the S400 design and it’s soundstage, the low volume test is an interesting one. All round the S400’s are excellent value and forgiving. How will they fare with the Rega R- Elicit and P6 with Ania MC? I think it will be a match made in heaven. At that price point. Will you ever review Rega products? Also the Harbeth P3ESR?

[@killerecho]

10:06 Not sure what you said here: The S400 is miles better than the S400 when you pair something like that with the KEF R3? Did you mean that the KEF is miles better than the S400 when paired with superior front end gear? And if so, is it not the case, the other way around?

[@dynodin81]

Awesome info! Trying to figure out synergy with a limited budget and space is very difficult for the everyday person. I think these videos go a long way into getting a bigger picture of how a speaker really shines and works with different components.

[@allanpowell7208]

Don't talk the same nonsense he does. He didn't give frequency responses or ranges or any kind of specific. How the hell can anyone make any sensible comparison without mention the specs for each set. He talks babble. By the way what the hell is the "bigger picture of how a speaker shines". I've been listening to Classical music for over sixty years and he gave me absolutely no information necessary to make an informed choice about either set of speakers. Come on, don't humour the guy. And don't use that hackneyed term Awesome, you sound like a damn twelve year old. Happy New Year

[@dynodin81]

@@allanpowell7208 you are an Awesome Hack!

[@allanpowell7208]

Awesome. Gee that means a lot coming from you. Awesome.Synergy. Yeah. Awesome

[@dynodin81]

Sweet!

[@allanpowell7208]

Sweet Synergy. Yeah . Everyday awesome person. So yeah man hey. Dude. like wow. Y'dig? I was spaced thru the whole gig. Yeah. How did he show the speaker shining with different components Dude? ...Awesome. Blasted, blown away by that.....Synergy.

[@robmyers932]

Which amp in the $2000 price range would you suggest works best for the Kefs

[@AkhilAbrol]

What stands you are using for R3? Thanks.

[@jamiesmith6838]

Great compariso vid! This price spread can make selecting easier. However, audiophile speakers are by their very nature.. Revealing. That's what the extra cost technically buys.. Truth in the recordings. Less coloration means less distortion/noise. Plus, the KEF has a seprate bass driver! That, in itself equates to higher cost over a drone. But, all speakers are a blend of compromises. You also failed to discuss weight between the two?

[@allanpowell7208]

Weight? What are you going to do? Use them to exercise? The guy talks dribble. No Frequency figures, stated or actual. Do you buy things because somebody else give nonsensical definitions of them which you assume means they are efficient? Go back and listen to his "comparison" again and then think about the things that he doesn't mention, does mention in babble speak, and the lack of precision in the comparison. I've been listening to Classical music for over sixty years and I have no clue what he was talking about in his so called comparison. The manufacturer's leaflet would have sufficed. Happy New Year.

[@jamiesmith6838]

@@allanpowell7208 You hit on several points. "What are we going to do, weight train with them?" Lol No. But, weight with loud speakers are definitely a contributing factor to their performance. Afterall, it produces sound by physically moving air. No puny 12 lbs 12x12 box is going to shake the walls with chest pounding bass from a timpani at volume. Simple physics. How much does a Wilson Audio Sasha weigh? Nearly 200 lbs! Surely, they could make it out of carbon fiber? But, every time the bass drum kicks it would move around, if not fastened down? Lol

[@allanpowell7208]

Home stereos rarely get played at the max level for the speakers do they? If you want loud popular music, it's generally club music. Home music is for moderate levels and in my case, fairly intense listening which you cannot really do with great volume. I'm afraid the speaker that can produce the loudest thump would not be my criteria for purchasing and again a speaker weighing 200lbs is without argument impractical for most home listening. Have you ever heard of sand bags? Thank you for responding you made me have to think and that is not something one always gets on these posts Cheers and keep safe.

[@jamiesmith6838]

@@allanpowell7208 Thx. You too my friend.

[@JosephTongret]

These comparison videos are fantastic! One shot, no editing, but just getting some of your opinions out on the fly. I find it very entertaining, and I really value your thoughts!

[@gerritfridericksohn4627]

Yeh, I like that about his videos, limited jarring edits. Unlike some others. I won't mention anyone as I still watch others,. These videos are not easy to make. I appreciate all who make them.

[@sonicpalpability7382]

What speaker stands are the R3 placed on?

[@ichikawasan100]

No music, just bla bla bla!

[@Wenslauw]

Ichikawa San because listening on your phone to a recording of speakers playing is dumb.

[@NaveenKumar-uh2gk]

Help help help buchardt s400 mk2 or kef r3 which is better sound wise.is s400 mk2 better then r3.which one you like more and why .what will be your choice plz answer plz plz

[@V1ralB1ack]

the new s400 mk2 definitely beat the kef r3 and pretty much any bookshelf speaker because they produce more deeper bass and sound fuller and bigger and more dynamic and it's all because they used the best quality parts they could on the crossover. Buchardt really poured a lot of love on this speaker.

[@linkeddevices]

the best placement for kef speakers is straight if possible otherwise as wide as you can place them clear of walls and then take them up about 2 inches. from there you'll have even dispersion across the entire room woth no pink noise quivering at all. you really just want to keep out of the way of the direct radiation hot spot and always listen slightly off axis.

[@brianw3822]

I was interested in the R3 after hearing the R11, but the uni-q is not the same. I found it to be too bright and fatiguing. I now own the Buchart and find your comparison quite accurate. I have them in a room with poor acoustics and they still project a nice soundstage. Thanks for your time and attention in all your videos.

[@allanpowell7208]

"fatiguing"? you're supposed to put them down and listen to them, They're not like earphones. His comparison contained no figure of specs stated or achieved, How can it be accurate? You're doing the old Emperor's new clothes thing. Listen,, ridicule the ridiculous when you blindly bump into it. Happy New Year, hope you don't find it too fatiguing..

[@brianw3822]

@@allanpowell7208 I felt he was pretty accurate in his evaluation of the difference in the two. I agreed with his opinion. I could just read all the specs, but do they really matter.

[@allanpowell7208]

He did not evaluate them by comparison of specifications.He said they were "smooth" or "in your face". Can you explain to me what those terms mean regarding musical reproduction? You agreed with meaningless twaddle. Use your intelligence. Any frequency response charts in the review?. Any Specs mentioned.? None that I heard. He's a charlatan and if you think he said something of value which a speaker buyer could use as a guide for a purchase, you are mistaken. You have, I'm afraid caught the nonsense nomenclature language that floats around among people who are enthusiastic about but not informed about musical reproduction equipment., Sorry if that upsets you but someone needed to tell you, if only to save you money.The guy is an enthusiast but not an informed or informing one. Sorry.

[@allanpowell7208]

I forgot to say, "I could read all the specs but do they really matter" Of course they bloody do. Take home a speaker that is rated at 50 watts ( American or UK?) and find that they are half that and that their frequency range is less than specified and you are going to think it matters quite a lot, trust me.Attach 16 Ohm speakers to your 4 Ohm amp or wait did you want them speakers to be 16 Ohm?. And what amp is going to drive them efficiently? And 6 Ohm speakers can safely run at up to 44 Ohms intermittently can't they? That is all down to specs but obviously you are young and uninformed and probably offended by now that your ignorance has been shown up. Swallow the offence and learn stuff for yourself.Do you really rely on this guy to dictate your purchases? Why on Earth would you do that when he abandons all reference to specifications? He does no measurement or Frequency readings. And he gives his views on speakers when he has a cold?A head cold affecting his ears???????? Really? Come on, wake up, use your intelligence. Happy New Year

[@brianw3822]

@@allanpowell7208 I guess ohms mater eh . I have some scanspeek that are rated at 6.5 ohm which would be listed at 8 ohms 400 rated 4 ohms . My Maggie's are 4 ohms jbls 100s are 8 ohm my Hegel will drive down to 2. O have some Dayton eights I built that are 4ohm. I did audition the r3s I n my home with both my Hegel and Luxman. I heard the buchardt on the parasound jc.I have owned at least 30 pairs of speakers I my day. I would say that the sound of the r3 was not for me. Now the r11 has the same uni q as the blade and I'd a different creature. The specs not so important. It is not like it makes any difference. Not many 16 ohm out there. I still have a later model Sansui amp that needs 8 ohms or you will cook it. I am not letting anyone make up mind for me. If you want to talk about the Nyquist and it effects on distortion within a given sampling rate due filters maybe you can help me out. The other thing I am not to decipher is how to get my tidal to wirelessly stream to my DAC easily. What do you suggest for a streamer that will pass mqa. I might not totally believe in mqa at this time but seems like best solution at time for me. Honestly have not been able to figure this out and am open to suggestions. I also like the wharfdale heritage Litton. But they were a little big for the room at present. Pitter patter.

[@DanielAnchondo]

I guess what you meant to say is that both the R3 and S400 scale very well with amplification quality but the R3 more so since it's so revealing? I wanted to ask how the PS Sprout 100 scales with the Billie amp and the H190 since it's the price goes from 600 to 1500 and 4000 USD and how the R3 and S400 perform on these amps.

[@chrispalanca1250]

Guys, does my ma5300’s juice handle this rfs? Im a bit worried about the 3.5 dip i heard.

[@BWWGL9]

Nice review.... I agree across the board with you on the Buchardts. QUESTION: What do you have the S400 sitting on??? Is that SILICONE, Band Name please. THANKS

[@green564x4]

Hi Jay. I have watched so many of your vids and thank you for your great insights, i have learned alot. I am curious on which set you think would work best with a Peachtree Nova 300 and Bluesound 2021 node combination? Thank you for any thoughts you can give.

[@AUDIO.and.SCOTCH]

Nice review, the kef looks very nice.

[@rickc661]

good info, review given no tech details like for example ' stereophile mag provides fits my expectations, that is any speaker of what, $ 500. each + is gonna be really good, no clunkers allowed in todays market. a piano sounds like a piano, D.Krall sounds like... D.Krall. difference being one of personal preference, maybe ' bright' or ' mellow' not that ' this one is better. end of story.' efficiency might be a factor, 3 db difference which is possible being a double or half the power for same loudness. of course that's with. similar types. larger floor standers are most likely gonna have more bass below 50 hz or so. important if Ya like modern boom / bang movies.

[@123oner]

Jay, could I ask, which speaker do you feel has the most consuming/fullest soundstage around the £600-800 mark? Thank you

[@tivanov5]

KEF R3 has more wide scene , tested several times.

[@ACM1000000PT]

i think will be interesting a comparison vs R300, r300 are less forward and suit very well with every music because its smooth nature

[@1JRW1]

Do you think Marantz PM7000N could be a good match for the Kef R3?

[@billwillard9410]

Good comparison on the two; it helps to know what better components paired with these will do. Don’t need the musical interludes or flashy gazing shots of equipment as other reviewers do. I have the S400’s and had the LS50’s and the KEFs were definitely more picky about where you pointed them, and the sparkly highs were a treat but fatiguing over time. Using a refurbished McIntosh MC 2200 amp.

[@allanpowell7208]

Nonsense, he didn't give you any specs . Go to the Electrical store and get the manufacturer's blurb. It will have more facts in it than this wally's babbling had.

[@billwillard9410]

Nah, I can look up the specs myself, which don’t tell you how it sounds with other components. Real life experience is better than any spec.

[@allanpowell7208]

What on earth do you think you are listening to except the electrical activation of specs? The real life experience is you in your home listening to the specs being executed or in the case of disappointment, failing to be executed. Put some thought into it

[@billwillard9410]

allan powell Suggesting going to the manufacturer and reading their marketing dribble is hardly an example of putting thought into it. Equipment with similar specs can sound differently, especially combined with other components. That why so many people want to know what the reviewer was using in their reviews.

[@allanpowell7208]

How can you have a valid comparison of two products by your chappie here without any reference to the specs of either product?How is that a good comparison on the two as you said in your post? Think about it. It is not a good comparison to ignore completely the specifications of each product. Just sit and think about that please before you respond. It isn't is it? It's an opinion but the opinion is expressed in meaningless jargon that you take to mean something because he says it. It's nonsense

[@harrisedgar]

Very nice comparison...!!! Much needed indeed. It would be great if you could review the KEF LSX,

[@billwillard9410]

I listened to the R3’s and they added the low end that was missing from the LS50’s.

[@shanger7882]

I agree. I had the ls50s and I sold them for the r3s. I couldn't be happier

[@mikechivy]

I went from the LS50 to the Dynaudio Special Forty and it’s insane how much better they are. Although they’re twice as expensive, I got them open box mint condition for 2,200 as opposed to 1,500 for the LS50 at the time.

[@Slickman2006]

I would hope the R3's are better for twice the price.

[@phoenixkiula9554]

@@mikechivy what amp and source do you drive Special 40 with? From LS50 they would of course be a huge upgrade. But I wonder how they'd sound next to R3.

[@ryanschipp8513]

Do you or anyone else have an opinion on how these would compare to the elac adante as-61 bookshelf speakers? Right now certain colors can be had for 1500 for the pair I'm very curious all day compared to the Andrew Jones design

[@geraldgreene5563]

Hi jay, how do you think the R3 would do with the naim uniti atom at 40 per side.. naim watts are usually conservative.

[@slidetek]

The AS-61's are _gigantic._ Gorgeous, incredibly well made, but huge. Bass not as strong as I'd have hoped. Picky at placement (both them and you). The S400's can be had at somewhat of a discount for returns, which actually makes more sense based on the incredibly long break-in period. The R3's can be had for under MSRP as well, but they're _not_ as well made as the earlier R's. Check forums such as AVS and Audiogon for owner feedback. I'm actually now considering the old R500's. 50% off of original MSRP helps a lot as well! I'm looking to downsize in my new place from my big old Thiels, but small floor standers would work as long as they can play quietly when needed. I think the AS-61's need a lot of juice/current running through them (which I have) to come alive, but the ability for a speaker to play well at all volumes (including low) isn't something a lot of manufacturers worry about with home theater calling the shots.

[@Gadgetdad007]

If you had to choose your last speaker what would you choose, the Klipsch RP-600M or the Buchardt S400 ?

[@ralex3697]

Gadgetdad Both not very good Harbeth, Spendor, PMC, ATC, Pro Ac, Neat, Wharfedale are better options I avoid B&W, Monitor Audio, Kef very poor sonics

[@mathieua.7927]

Hi Jay, thanks for your video. Did you think the Billie amp 60w was enough power for the KEF R3, that seams to need a lot of power to be at its best ? Or would you suggest another speaker for the Billie in a nearfield / small room configuration ? Many thanks.

[@Rod007man]

How would S400 compare to a Martin Logan Motion 40 tower speaker? Motions 40 are discontinued and great value / practically same footprint with stand.

[@ralex3697]

Rod007man Not even remotely close

[@zenekzen8984]

Any chance for kef vs atc comparison? And atoll in200 or in300 review?

[@123oner]

Hi Jay, thank you for this great comparison. Can you (or anyone here) advise if they're had experience with the Kef R300 vs the R3, mainly in terms of amps adequate enough to drive the speakers? I'm powering the R300's with an Audiolab 6000a, which I think maybe isn't strong enough as they seem to be underperforming (bass is bloated/not full/punchy enough). Thanks!!:)

[@scottking2821]

Hi Jay. Apologies, as I realise this is an older video (I hope you see this), but can you tell me what stands you have the R3s on please? I’ve just purchased a pair, and looking at as many options as I can. Kind regards. Scott.

[@zeroice00]

I really like how clean this KEF R3 looks... it would be interesting to compare it to the Dynaudio Evoke series

[@allanpowell7208]

What are you gonna do? Watch them or listen to them?

[@lossendae6211]

@@allanpowell7208 Why not both ?

[@allanpowell7208]

So you pay a small fortune to look at them. Talk sense

[@nealrhodes4342]

I have the KEF R3's they are amazing.

[@tomu2858]

Me too. Yes they are.

[@HariPrasad9999]

What's the amp ?

[@morespinach9832]

Depends entirely on amp. Mentioning speakers without amp is so...ordinary.

[@themaster2851998]

Check out Ascend acoustics sierra 2EX line if you haven't already, they're in a direct competition with these two and most who heard all three prefer the Sierra.

[@SealKojac]

I bought and returned the 2EX, as much as Ascend keeps trying with their woofers, they simply cannot keep up with the amazing Raal ribbons. I felt a disconnect in the sound between the drivers, bass is big but lagging behind. I also bought and sold the S400 as they just didn't work on my credenza's with the flipped drivers. Settled on Monitor Audio Gold 100's (5g) and I'm happy. They have better driver integration sacrificing a little of that ribbon magic. The ebony finish is also stunning on the MA, the s400 looks cheap by comparison.

[@bigjay1970]

@@SealKojac So interesting how people have different experiences! I bought the last version of the gold 100's and couldn't wait to return to Crutchfield! They were way too bright for me! Built like a tank in a great way but too bright! Played some AC/DC and was like nexttttt! Bought JBL Studio 500 series speakers and the difference was/is night and day! It turns out I am a paper cone/compression driver type of guy!😉🤗😇🤔😬 All I could think about when listening to the monitor Audio's was the sound of a metal stainless steel ball traveling around a steel metal bowl like a roulette wheel! Now take that ball and move it in a paper bowl!🤔🤔 Much more natural sounding to me! They did just redid the whole Gold speaker line and I myself can see why! Heck, some people like chocolate some like vanilla!🤪😇 The fit and finish of the Golds made these two speakers in question look like garbage in comparison!🤪

[@jtc168]

Very informative. Watched the full video hoping to hear the price on these great speakers.

[@ralex3697]

jtc168 Overpriced both of them

[@holdenafart7372]

what stand are you using for the KEF

[@tomnowicki5858]

Considering both. Wondering which would match better with my McIntosh mc7100 amp which is more on the warm side

[@mixedbassoon]

Nice review! I have the R3 (upgraded from LS50)🙂 what stands are under the R3 in the video? I realy like how they look…

[@garyporter8454]

If I was following you were liking the S400 until both were mated with the Grandinote - in which case the R3 pulled way ahead?

[@slistone1940]

I am deciding between the s400 and the Double Impact, the two most hyped speakers of the last couple years. Which one do you prefer?

[@rafaelruiz-tagle358]

Really good comparison video. Thanks to you, I am much more interested in learning about the S400 speakers. Happy Holidays!

[@Timzetti]

Jay please help. Could you tell your pick or witch way would you lean if the amplifier is hegel h190 and using the upnp streamering from the hegel.? Thanks 🙂

[@TheEnzoferrari12345]

Many things he says just doesn't make sense in actual life No one needs 10 k amp for a 2k speaker, Most certainly you don't get "crap" when you re feeding R3's with amps costing around 500 -1k USD That s just bullshit, a decent entry level amp from Denon, Marantz or Yamaha is and will be perfectly adequate to feed these speakers. If you re one of those who happily spend 2k for a pair of 1 metres of speaker cables then and only then you should believe in this nonsense !

[@Jayiyagi]

Hey Enzo. I respect your opinion but my assessment comes from my personal experience and there are certainly ppl who take the amp first approach (john atkinson does). I wouldn' t say it is "nonsense" just because it doesn't fit your experience. Cheers.

[@wavesnowaves]

Has anyone tried one, or both of these for movie duties? If so, interested to hear how they go in a 2.0 configuration, Bass wise especially.

[@DanielAnchondo]

I got the 400s and use em for movies and they don't disappoint. The bass extends deep!

[@wavesnowaves]

Danny Anchondo that’s awesome, if they can cope with higher volume and the dynamics of movies. How is dialogue, are vocals clear and not too recessed in the mix?

[@DanielAnchondo]

@@wavesnowaves Yes, vocals are clear and not recessed in the mix. There's also a large center image so that improves the listening experience when more than one person. Did you see the review by Z Reviews on the S400s, S300s and R3s? From what I remember he thinks there could be some rational for the R3s or S300s if pure music was all you were going for in a dedicated listening room, but if you were going to do both music and television than the S400s really shine there. One issue may be is that they really seem to shine at moderate and above listening levels.

[@0BURNT0TOAST0]

I'm excited to see more of these videos as I have the buchardt s400 on the top of my shortlist! It's great to see all the comparable speakers and how they compare ! Thank you 😊.

[@ronnyangell665]

Hi, good review! Quick question, at the end you mentioned the Atoll IN200, did you use the inbuilt DAC or external? Thanks

[@mrtitms]

Love my 400's, need a better front end but the spout 100 will do for now.

[@DanielAnchondo]

Also got a sprout 100 with the 400s. I'm wondering what the next step in amplification would be for the 400s though room treatment would probably do more IMO...

[@mrtitms]

@@DanielAnchondo you're probably right. I don't have much room for that with the wife need to approve finishes (maybe I'll make a listening room). I'm looking for a dedicated amp of 200-300watts and a tube amp like a Freya

[@DanielAnchondo]

@@mrtitms I got a sister in law I got to deal with. Other than a bigger rug or changing the blinds to curtains I don't think I can get away with doing much to the room either lol. The Freya has good reviews? What amp would go well with it?

[@PeterKese]

Your audio (the piano or something) at the beginning is clipping. Can you hear that? Aren't your ears bothered with that?

[@brasilchris1]

Hi , i am interesting to by R3 with SVS 3000 sealed sub , What will be the better match with this speakers? Parasound Halo 2.1 or the Rotel ra 1592 ? 50/50 music and movie.

[@JuanLega]

The build quality of this speakers is like comparing a Kia against a BMW.

[@veral111]

Which is Kia?

[@JuanLega]

@@veral111 the S400

[@Beos_Valrah]

Which means?

[@felixxia3604]

Kia has better reliability than bmw.

[@skumnjepf]

In your face

[@cmessi]

Am I the only one who finds de Buchardt ugly because of the tweeter design?

[@vintageflanker7096]

Measurements for both, telling the whole story: S400: www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/buchardt-s400-speaker-review.12844/#post-381791 R3: www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/kef-r3-speaker-review.12021/ Conclusion: The R3 is objectively a more accurate speaker, with literally no flaw... still, some might subjectively prefer the signature of the S400.

[@RiffsRhythm]

What speaker stands are those r3 on? They fit perfectly

[@paulgillard5094]

Which one of these speakers would go best the Naim Unity Star?

[@dangoh2237]

Not KEF R3 for me! I listen to it & totally not impressed wt it!

[@xstensl8823]

what would be better for Classical music? Piano Black is a great selling point

[@BrianGarside]

Is the A21+ amp a good match for the KEF R3?

[@ufarkingicehole]

Yes

[@L.A.G.-]

Im thinking about running a 2.0 setup with one of these two as L/R without a center speaker or subwoofer for home theater. Which one will perform better?

[@engineer4862]

I know it's an old post but have you found a answer ?

[@quant2011]

How R3 compare to Boenicke when it comes to soundstage?

[@nuznikas]

Wave guide can be calculated on cad software 20 years ago that is black belt bruce lee marketing

[@gerritfridericksohn4627]

Review the Elac active. Forget the model number. Any other active. Also speakers that can be used with my 2A3 mono blocks.

[@careymacisaac9165]

can you compare the kef r3 to B & W 705 S2 or even the Goldenear Reference BXR , all close in price

[@Skidaddl]

Great video. So, to answer the big question, which you elude to in your title (which is better?): given the R3's are 35% more ($CDN), which one would you buy if it was your only system?

[@Jayiyagi]

You tell me. Thats the idea of that title. I have you the differences. Which ones better for you?

[@Skidaddl]

@@Jayiyagi Tough call having not heard either live. But seems to me from your review, if I was going with a sub $5k amp, and I have a preference for bigger soundstage, the S400's might be a better call?

[@korbindallas6727]

Hi, not too sure about your math. I will round the numbers for my simple mind. The S400 is approx 2,400 CDN (1610 euro). The KEF R3, with Ontario taxes is 3,000 CDN (2,700 msrp + 13% HST). A gap of 600 CDN, or 25% more then the S400. I agree that is a significant amount. For those that really want to shop I would encourage a visit to a local audio shop, build a relationship and negotiate. That price gap will go down significantly (better base price and less evil tax too).. Ultimately the individual needs to determine the value to them, once they establish what that is. I do have a couple of general questions. Does anyone know if there are any Canadian import duties/tariffs? And to NBT, did you compare the S400 or the S400 SE (significant cost difference, and per the website some significant internal upgrades). Thanks!! and a Happy Musical New Year to all. Ps. I would encourage everyone to do their own math !! lol

[@Skidaddl]

@@korbindallas6727 Actually you're right about the math - I was comparing to S400 b-stock price (returned, flawless models) which is the route I would likely go. My mistake. Not sure about import tariffs, but you do still have to pay GST.

[@korbindallas6727]

@@Skidaddl Thanks Pat B. The tax man commeth!! Ouch. I agree about the b-stock comment. If I was going to pull the trigger I would do the same thing. Crazy part is, most if not all (I haven't checked recently) are sold out. So many reviews lately have made the S400 (any model) a hot commodity. Hopefully the economics of supply and demand don't come into play, and price goes up. Cheers! and happy listening.

[@epi2045]

Passive radiators are a bit overrated. I’ve had speakers with passive radiators. I’d rather have an actual driver.

[@sean_heisler]

Great review! I’ve been looking at both of these speakers, as well as Amphion. Currently have Dynaudio Audience 42’s.

[@allanpowell7208]

Don't look at them. Listen to them . And don't pay any attention to the gibberish that this guy babbles.

[@sean_heisler]

@@allanpowell7208 Ha ha. I do. Sound first. I've owned the same speakers for almost 10 years now.

[@allanpowell7208]

Good on you.

[@darrenreed883]

I really enjoyed the review. I am not in such a unique situation as I do not have the room or the funds to support a listening and a dedicated movie room. I am on a quest to find a great front two but a manufacture that also offers a complete system. I.e Paradigm Kef golden ear Psb . Any recommendations please

[@douglaslafarlette5604]

Kef R3 all day

[@phoenixkiula9554]

Why?

[@swllz]

without any measurements, it's just completely bluff, waste of time

[@V1ralB1ack]

Then read the fucking frequency response and the rest of the specs and fuck off videos if you want numbers. He's trying to put the sound into words. The kef's are more laid back, less bass and some might describe them as boring but they sound pleasant. I personally prefer ls50s to the r series. The buchardt is more dynamic and has more deeper bass and it sounds bigger for its size. It's a 3 way vs a 2 way also so take your pick.

[@cliffordcostley9798]

Would you say that the PS Audio Sprout would be a good match for the KEF R3?

[@DanielAnchondo]

I have the Sprout 100 and it's a pretty good match with the S400s in terms of power and I assume would power the R3 just as well. Hard to tell without doing a direct comparison but it's possible something like lack of instrument separation(in comparison when I use headphones vs the sprout 100 + S400s) may be exacerbated in the R3's since it's more revealing. My next upgrade will be my amp but that won't be for quite a while.

[@cliffordcostley9798]

@@DanielAnchondo Thomas seems to like the Onix A55 made in China. However, the original Onix manufacturer is still making amps in England under the name Onix DNA 50. These are actually 100 watt per channel at 8ohm amplifiers that are rated from 16 to 2 ohms. I'm also considering the new Wharfedale EVO 4.2's (3-way) which are updates of an older design. No one near me is demoing them, so I may have to order them online for an in-house audition using my trusty Pioneer Elite M91. I am also considering new amplification with Parasound or Cambridge.

[@DanielAnchondo]

@@cliffordcostley9798 thanks, I'll do some research on those amps. Didn't know Thomas was fond of them.

[@cliffordcostley9798]

@@DanielAnchondo I am basing my observation upon his comments made at 11:25 into the video and his lingering shot near the end. I could be reading to much into them.

[@ralex3697]

Clifford Costley No, the KEFs are very inefficient and need power, so not the Sprout

[@astra004]

What exactly is „very, very low“?

[@davidoostijen8485]

Can you do a comparison between the arendal 1723 tower s and klipsch rp 280 f?