Perfectly Balanced! ATC SCM11 Review!

[@dmgmail7021]

No one breaks down a speaker the way you do. And the accurate comparisons to back it up. And never sound bought and sold by a brand. Always a pleasure seeing your content.

[@NemoPropaganda]

thank you for the kind words! I only review stuff I'm personally interested in so that makes it pretty easy to enjoy the process :)

[@tess6499]

@@NemoPropagandahi how is the cabinet made? Do you know the thickness they used? Thanks

[@NemoPropaganda]

@@tess6499 Some speaker cabinets are intnetionally thick, others are intentionally thin, either way its to tune the sound, unless you were part of the original design team I do not think this is valuable information for anyone but you are welcome to reach out to ATC directly if you are interested in their manufacturing process & details.

[@tess6499]

@@NemoPropaganda thanks again

[@ranelime]

You got it Nemo! My favorite brand

[@tellthemborissentyou]

I have ATC SCM-19 speakers with a REL T/5x sub. I love the combination.

[@NemoPropaganda]

that sounds amazing!

[@seoulrydr]

nice. this is the first time you've reviewed something that piques my interest to this degree. tyvm!

[@dental.floss.tycoon61]

I run the SCM11s together with a small SW (KEF kc62) with a Lyngdorf TDAI 1120 amplifier and am perfectly happy. This review is absolutely correct.

[@phfen]

Hi @dental.floss.tycoon61 : the ATC SCM 11 seem to need at least 75W per channel (as per ATC specifications). I am very interested with pairing them with the TDAI 1120 like you have done. I am surprised (and happy) to know they pair well. Are you still happy today ? May I ask what style of music you are listening and at what level you have to crank up the level to have a normal listening ? Thank you !

[@dental.floss.tycoon61]

@@phfen Hi, Yes, very satisfied. "Normal volume" is of course always subjective, but I rarely have the volume above -20 (with Tidal, the level differences between different tracks are sometimes quite large, so I often readjust the volume). Since I let the SW play back the frequencies below 70 Hz, the Lyngdorf is less demanding, but even without it I can't imagine that a "normal listener" would complain about too little power... Incidentally, I would always recommend the additional SW in addition to the ATCs. I mainly listen to jazz, and that's where I want to enjoy the full frequency spectrum. The rich, finely resolved sound produced by the combination of TDAI 1120 + ATC11 + KEF 62 is a whole league above, for example, the combination with KEF LS50s.

[@richardrogers4335]

@@phfen I'm using the SCM 11 in my desktop system with a Bryston B60 , but it seems to be current that matters rather than wattage . ATC state that their speakers are an "easy load" for amplifiers , so I think their 75-300 watt amplifier spec is looser than you might think . If I want party volume , I listen to my other B60 with a pair of Klipsch Heresy III

[@justinparkman3585]

The Scm 11s are hard to beat especially when hooked up with an Rel sub had mine for eight years now

[@NemoPropaganda]

yes sir!! They are darn near the perfect all around speaker!

[@rehn1kri]

Great review, Nemo. You make these sound like my early-90s ProAc Response Two standmounts…neutral, high resolution, but extremely engaging.

[@Pok-001]

ATC had always sounded great to me. Natural sounding with good detail. They just get midrange right. One of Their floor standers on my end game list. Heard they put a ton of R&D into their woofer and tweeter manufacturing. Probably something to do with flat measurements and still having musical and engaging sound.

[@willbrink]

11's are good, 19s are great. Add a sub or two and you have audio that sounds like a big $ system. Only downside anyone could claim is they're base shy, but midrange is the best.

[@RyanChoo]

In my unfortunate slightly squarish 11x10 ft listening room, the SCM19s has a low end that is taut and defined (test track "Limit to Your Love" by James Blake). Of course, adding a subwoofer saves the day any day! 😁

[@marcodevos3565]

The closed enclosure and huge magnet of the bass driver gives accurate bass and midrange. Also the build quality and shape of the cabinet is helping lot! But power is needed to make them shine

[@middleearthltd]

I have seen a couple few ATC reviews and the brand gets a lot of love Thank You for the review 🙏🙏🙏

[@billd9667]

The most impressive speakers I've heard recently are the ATC SCM40a (amplified). I heard them by chance at Audio Connections in Verona NJ. They were just tossed (not bad for 80lb speakers) in the front of the store, though I'm sure that all the other gear, shelving and accessories in that room helped them acoustically. For a speaker that "only" had a 6.5" woofer and no sub to assist, it sounded truly full-range and not "detailed" at all. It just sounded natural and utterly at ease. Then I asked how much. The salesman said, "Well, that's the powered version and it's $10k. The passive is $6K." I said, "Now, where in the hell am I going to get $6k..." - as one asks when he just has to have something and wonders who he will have to *rob* to get it.

[@eugeneniemierzycki6490]

Yes, outrageous prices. I wonder how they reach these levels!

[@billd9667]

@@eugeneniemierzycki6490 well, they do make all components on site and hand assemble them. I get it. I just want them badly and will have to do something crazy to get the $6k!

[@BrianGarside]

Great review, love ATC! Glad your getting these. If you love these you should try the SCM 19's too. It has some interesting differences few reviews out there highlight this.

[@NemoPropaganda]

maybe in the future :)

[@BrianGarside]

@@NemoPropaganda These combined with a pair of REL's is heaven. Unbeatable combo for the price.

[@NemoPropaganda]

@@BrianGarside oh yeah, of course!

[@RyanChoo]

​@@NemoPropagandaPlease have a chance to try the SCM19s. I have auditioned the 7, 11 and 19s at the dealer's with respectable brands the likes of Rockna, Line Magnetic, Moon to name a few that paired with all of them. Each and every time, the midrange of the SCM19s seduced me! 😅 The ATCs are highly revealing and I come to understand what that means when I connected them to my equipment at home. It took me many weeks to finally find the best pairing and speakers placement together with sound treatment to get them to sound their best. No shame but I'm just gonna bite the bullet and share my eventual setup here: Source: Apple Music (from Android device and Mac Mini M2 using USB output to DAC) DAC: Holo Audio Cyan 2 1st Place: Musical Paradise MP-301 Mk III with rolled GE 5693 pre-tubes and Tung-Sol EL-34B power tubes. 2nd Place: Fosi Audio ZA3 with rolled MUSES02 op amps running monoblocks through XLR from the DAC. Somehow or rather, I did not experience the lack of current or power thereof from the above amplifiers which may cause the SCM19s to sound restrained. In fact, switching from the tube to solid state amp results in a wider soundstage and gained more micro details but lost quite a fair bit of the 3-dimensionality of tubes. So personally, I don't mind sacrificing a little bit of the finer details of the recording for a rich midrange presentation and long listening session. Hope my two-cents worth of thoughts help! 😊

[@howardskeivys4184]

I recently toured my local ‘bricks and mortar’ hi-fi dealers, on a mission to upgrade my stand mount speakers. I auditioned the Kef R3 Meta and the ATC, side-by-side. There are many similarities, but it’s the differences which influenced my decision to purchase the Kef. The ATC speakers demanity more power, lost tomality at low volume and were deprived of bass depth. I felt the Kefs mid-range equaled the transparency of the ATC but with a touch of extra body. The high frequency performance was too close to call. Clinching the deal, was the fact had an immaculate pair of Kef R3 Meta ex-demo reduced by 25%! At the end of the day it is a matter of personal choice and preference, but whichever you choose, they won’t disappoint. Enjoy the music.

[@NemoPropaganda]

oh yeah that's a tough comparison, both are crazy good and you are correct that the SC11 need strong power behind them. There isn't a wrong choice to be made between those two.

[@bryanmorgan758]

Would love to see you do a pair of Totem bookshelves!

[@NemoPropaganda]

Totem very rarely sends review samples to anyone. they're very guarded with their products. They emailed me 1 time and I was willing but it didn't go anywhere.

[@hailtothevictorz]

Another great review, man. Thanks for all the comparisons. I just wish you had compared them to a speaker one or two notches above their price. I was hoping you would have mentioned your speaker of the year for last year, the Carbon 7's.

[@NemoPropaganda]

The Carbon 7 is a great example of where going with a smaller company that cuts out the middle man can really get you something special. The two both have outstanding sepparation but the larger fritz has stronger bass and a slightly more pronounced midrange. I think personal taste will be the determining factor as they are both very good.

[@mmdusa]

Nemo bringing the heat! Wonder how they compare to the Source Point. And if the money is worth the price. But I'm not losing sleep over it. Lol. Thanks again Nemo. Great review.

[@evgenyevichamadou9559]

Thank you for the review. I appreciate it.

[@stup1299]

Great review. I also went from 906s to SCM11s both powered by a Yamaha AS2100. In a much larger room (18ft * 15ft) I also had SCM19s which are even better than the 11s and curiosity led me to SCM40s which are just amazing and better in every way. For a small room though (8ft * 10ft) the 11s are perfect for my tastes now that the hifi is banned from the living room 😞

[@MikeK6046]

As always, thanks for the very good review!!!!!. How are these ATC SCM11s at lower listening levels? How is their on/ off-axis performance (i.e. do you need to sit in a vice to hear them at their best, or can one walk around the listening area and enjoy them equally as well?

[@johnbarnicoat9423]

not made for low levels

[@MikeK6046]

@@johnbarnicoat9423 Thank you. Based on the many glowing reviews I'm sure it's a great speaker (however, based on your response they won't address my listening needs, "different strokes for different folks")

[@NemoPropaganda]

low volume listening is very personal, I didn't have any issues but like most bookshelf speakers their sound really scales up with volume. As far as on or off axis my room is treated and I sit in the middle of the room so I'm not really sure.

[@johnbarnicoat9423]

@@MikeK6046 No problem. Personally, not sure why you would put your faith in a random internet stranger (me lol). Hope you also do some real research to guide your buying decisions. Good luck.

[@MikeK6046]

@@johnbarnicoat9423 Well.... based on these ATCs being non-ported, what you said could most likely be true!?!. I would certainly want to hear them in person before purchasing, thanks again.

[@mrnemobody]

"It makes the Aria 906 sound like a 800-900 speaker" Well, it makes sense, considering it's its real price. Aria 906 are around 900/pair in europe, often on sales for around 600. Even the updated 906 evo X are only 1500/pair. The ATC are around 1800/pair in their country, wich is double the price of the 906. (all prices in euro but pretty much the same in usd). I'm always impressed when i see reviews where people compares Focal speakers to much higher ones cause of their final import prices, and was equally impressed that it was a favourite of yours until then, according to all the great speakers you're able to listen. It's a good price/quality-sound in europe and i think it's mostly for that it's popular, but it's not a high end/expensive speaker, especialy not for the brand. BTW, as it's my first time leaving a message, thank you for all the work, i always love to watch your reviews, to make a decision, or just for entertainement and knowledge 🙏

[@NemoPropaganda]

It's nearly impossible to stay on top of the various prices in different regions, I'm familiar with a few of them but I'm not famliiar with the taxes & things like that either so I can only speak from the point of view of someone who lives in the USA because that's the information I have. The Aria 906 seems to sell for $2k+ in most regions so I think it's fair to call it a $2k speaker. The Aria 906 is still good but I would not pay full USA price for it today, but I also say the same about the Kanta, I think Focal makes great stuff but their USA pricing is no longer competative, maybe it was 10+ years ago but the market has changed.

[@mrnemobody]

@@NemoPropaganda Just to be clear (I'm not so sure I am when I speak english): it wasn't a critic of any sort about your review or the fact you are making comparaisons based on the usd price. It's understandable and accurate for what i imagine to be the majority of your viewers. I just wanted to point the fact that your ears and evaluation are good, pricing them to 900, cause that's their original range, before the import fees. And yeah, if i was living in the usa i would probably not buying Focal, same for Klipsh or SVS here in europe. Lucky us, many brands, many options!

[@NemoPropaganda]

@@mrnemobody no worries bro, I was just explaining the reasoning :)

[@ferchur4833]

Nemo, I think you are among the best reviewers when it comes to explain how a piece of gear sounds, so lets keep the good work. By the way, do you think SCM11 is less fatiguing than the S400Mk2?

[@NemoPropaganda]

I don't think either speaker is fatiguing at all, if anyone finds the SCM11 or S400 MK2 fatigueing It's possible they have some room issues, poor equipment pairing, or incredibly sensitive ears.

[@journeymann.dj.aditya]

My rig is a pair of SCM 11 powered by Rotel 1552 MK II, pumping 130 watts per channel, and a Rel S/510, a 500-watt subwoofer. I use them as DJ monitors, and they give me the big club sound feel. The REL fills out the mid and low end so much, yet disappears. I run it LOUD, and it really shakes my 300 sq. ft room. I wish it was a tad warmer, as I was used to Wharfedales. But the clarity and precision are insane, especially since I'm listening near-field ( 2-3 feet from each speaker). It's like listening to sound as to what would watching video in 4K on a 85 inch TV would be like. My DJ mixer is my DAC now. It's a Rane MP 2015. It's a digital mixer with a supposedly neutral sound signature. My next move would be to get a fully analog DJ mixer to see what it does in my chain. There is an Australian brand called Condesa that hand-makes boutique analog rotary DJ mixers with a warm, full sound-I think that would work well in my system.

[@JingoLoBa57]

A UK competitor are PMC speakers, for future review.

[@dan-qe1tb]

I heard the powered SCM40s. They had sounded closer to Harbeth in character than more forward US speakers or Focal speakers. Natural timbre, and vocals had body. No KEFs (a more neutral listen) at the show. I too feel that the Arias were getting old. Heard the new Evo Xs too. More laid back than the previous line, but still lively.

[@darrensoar3003]

Active ATC’s are the way to go👍

[@kjbiz]

My next speaker as well but hoping for the SCM19. Good to hear you liking them and description

[@swd7901]

I have the SCM19 with C1 subwoofers, love it. Very correct that they are neutral, dynamic and emotionally engaging

[@kjbiz]

@@swd7901 what electronics are you using with this set up. I was going to go scm19 with two rel 5t/x subs but not sure on electronics and it will take me awhile to get there.

[@volpedo2000]

I own the SCM19a towers. Quite rare as usually people opt for the 40s. Man the do sound good: huge detail, good bass if positioned properly and great mid. Active analogue speakers (no DSP) sound lovely.

[@swd7901]

​@kjbiz NAD M32 integrated. It has active crossover with independent low and high pass filters and levels for optimal integration of subs and mains

[@oldearado8351]

I have the 12 pro and really happy with them. Cpupled with denon a110 aniversary amplifier

[@amb3cog]

Great review as always. I've always wanted to try these out. I have a small room. So these, or the 19's would be great for me. But they are not cheap. Especially here in the US. But you make it sound like they're well worth it. Sean from ZF didn't seem to think they were all that (for the money) for some reason. But if they sound like you say. I'm down. ✌️

[@NemoPropaganda]

I think it's hard for most people to get a read on what Sean really thinks and I think thats intentional but he was impressed enough to put me in contact with the USA distributor to make this review happen :)

[@Taffy84]

When did Sean review the scm-11? Just checked and he has never reviewed any ATC speakers.

[@UWI-Anna]

I have a pair for a while and they only became alive when mated with Schiit Vidar (mono setup) and Freya.

[@NemoPropaganda]

yeah, low sensitivity so it needs some juice but as long as you can give it power wow! Great speaker!!

[@colintoh6019]

How does it compare to Arendal 1723 bookshelf speakers? By the way you are doing an awesome job in all your reviews. Thanks for what you are doing for the community.

[@NemoPropaganda]

Aside from both being sealed and harder to drive they don't have much in common, it's hard to describe the differences because I would use simlar words to describe each speaker. If you were building a theater I'd say save the money and go for the 1723, if it was dedicated 2ch hifi and the extra $400 isn't a big deal go for the ATC.

[@andreasmoller9798]

Heard the atc scm40 those really impressed me, played better than i expected from them, and could push high volumes for its size, i didint buy them through went with b&w 702 s2 as i prefered b&w extra crisp tweeter, a lot of detail, and very good with vocals, its more forward sounding speakers but i kind of enjoy it, but are not friendly to poor recordings, with Hegel h390 they sing, really powerhungry speakers, but even atc is demanding of power, nice review.

[@danbrodersen5838]

Hi Nemo! I saw you this morning at about 10:30 in the hallway at AXPONA. You were having a conversation, otherwise I would have said hello. I appreciate your in-depth, detailed and well explained reviews. In fact, you got me convinced that Rythmik subs are awesome for the price and performance factor.

[@NemoPropaganda]

plz feel free to interrupt any conversation I'm having, I don't mind :) Part of the reason I go to Axpona is to meet you guys so the MFG can wait!!

[@lawchoongseng789]

Fantastic video on the ATC SCM11. Great comparisons. Looking forward to another Speaker review from you bro. 😊😊 The ATC SCM 19. I believe both of them will pair very well with my Perreaux R200i and Accuphase amplification. Oh yes, please mention how they sound at lower volumes.

[@NemoPropaganda]

I didn't have any issues with love volume performance but that's an area where people get really picky so your results may vary.

[@youtubiers]

I had scm40a's, fantastic apart from low level listenability. I felt music lacked life/zing/immediacy at lower volumes. Ended up selling them as most of my listening is at low volumes. Only other complaints was the treble sounded a toiuch lost/too laid back (not a problem with the 19s), and they are $$$. In saying that they are easily the best speaker I've had.

[@lloydbrown3223]

Great review, as always! How did they pair with slightly lower priced or wattage components, like Emotiva?

[@NemoPropaganda]

anything that sounds good on my Kinki preamp and mono blocks will sound great on Emotiva, Emotiva and Kinki are a very similar sound. The difference is Kinki is much more refined and higher end overall so it just depends how sensitive you are for refinement. But that set aside I would not say the SCM11 and Emotiva have synergy together but it's not a terrible sound either. Emotiva is a great fit for a lot of spekaers around this price like Dyn Evoke, Buchardt P300/S400, CSS, etc...

[@nealcaffrey1251]

Thanks for the review, I have Focal Aria 906 currently, and they cost less than 800 euros on sale brand new, the USA prices is just absurd. I heard a few times that ATC's is a good upgrade if you like Focal type of sound. Waiting your next reviews ✌️

[@taho88]

I had pretty much decided on these but now I am looking at the Quad Revela 1 at very close to the same price.Any chance for a review of the Quads ?

[@NemoPropaganda]

I don't think so, Quad are not really popular in the USA, I don't know anywhere they're availabvle.

[@stephenmeckley]

First time hearing one of your reviews.... So straight to the point and love the comparisons. Dude you rock! Liked and Subscribed. One question though, since this speaker is so close to the KEF and the KEF goes lower in the freq response I am curious why someone would want this rather than the KEFs? Is it just a question of personal taste (warmth in the midrange of the KEF)?

[@NemoPropaganda]

a few reasons perhaps. The R3 Meta is fairly large, regional price differences could be a factor for some, KEF's imaging is a bit unique due to the uni-q driver, a lot of people like that while others may prefer the SCM11. The R3 Meta bass can overload some rooms. And lastly the tonal differences, some may prefer the more neutral SCM11 while others may prefer the R3 Meta slightly warmer mids. To me the size is the biggest factor, the R3 Meta are ever so slightly too tall for my aesthetic taste. Ultimately both speakers are great and most people would be happy with either but those looking for the ultimate in accuracy may prefer the SCM11.

[@joeshimbart4103]

Great review thanks really informative and helpful wondering given your experience with various subs what type/make to you think is a natural companion for the ATC is it more a J L Audio boost or perhaps a rel ? Totally different subs I understand just wondering your preference with the ATCs? Thanks

[@NemoPropaganda]

my preference is almost always for SQ style bass, regarding the ATC specifically, it's a speaker that can go either way so it's up to you to choose that heavy toned SPL style bass or the SQ highly refined sounding bass.

[@enjoyunreality]

Hey nemo very good review thank you. Would you say overall the focal kanta 1 is the better speaker than this atc ? Which one has better resolution and imaging ? Thank you very much

[@NemoPropaganda]

The Kanta No1 is 3-4x the price and Focal is known to be a detail focused speaker so yes, for sure the Kanta No1 will have the more resolution and precise imaging.

[@enjoyunreality]

@@NemoPropaganda in Germany you get a pair of Kanta 1s for about 4000€. It's 1000€ more expensive than atc. In USA focal is too expensive...

[@NemoPropaganda]

@@enjoyunrealitywow! I knew it was less but I thought it was like $5,500.

[@liamporter1137]

Great comparison.

[@InChristJesus87]

I’d recommend you check out the JBL 4309. They are picky with placement and will swing its character based on what you connect but an exceptional speaker that should compete with these beauties.

[@chewy560]

This is a really good speaker. It’s neutral and will let you hear what Hi-Fi you have upstream. I currently use it in a Weiss dac202-Primare a33.2. The sound is superb. Have also used Arc ref 5se/ref75 with excellent results ( a good full bodied sound, excellent tone and soundstage), and finally Audiolab 8000a which was probably the least successful match sounding slightly lean.

[@NemoPropaganda]

Thanks for sharing!

[@likeris2]

ATC SCM19 is even better!!!!

[@charlesclifton5896]

This is one excellent and very compelling review. I am very intrigued - to the point of considering ownership. Now, my only question is: how would this speaker perform at medium to medium low levels of volume? Further to that, what type of amplification would support lower volume without loosing all of the qualities this speaker has, as mentioned here? I currently own a Schiit Ragnarok 2. It has a preamp out so I could add a power amp (or not). The ATC SCM 11 has intrigued me for a very long time. This rather "enthusiastic" review has furthered my interest.

[@NemoPropaganda]

medium to medium low should be fine but this speaker needs some juice & output to sound its best. It's sensitivity is on the low side so that's no surprise. If you're shooting for 60-65dB at 6ft this speaker probably is not going to be as effortless and amazing as it would be closer to 75+dB at 6ft. Room size and listening distance are of course major factors. If you sit furter away like 10ft from the speakers 70dB to you is like 75dB in my room at 6ft.

[@charlesclifton5896]

@@NemoPropaganda Thank you for your fast reply. I've been involved in audio since the 60s and never owned a dB meter. Ordering one today. I believe I listen in the 70 dB range but I'll find out for sure. In any case, as much as I love the idea of owning the SCM 11, I am going to research the Totem you reviewed. The Bison bookshelf and as well, the Signature1. Both appeal and I believe they are stated to be fairly good at mid-low volume. I believe they are both sightly more efficient? I looking for an improvement in sound stage. My current Elac Dbr 62s are just not cutting it. Big thanks Nemo!!!!!!!! In my book you are one of the best audio reviewers - right up there with Thomas, Sean, Ron, Jay and the British Audiophile. (13th Note fellow as well)

[@NemoPropaganda]

@@charlesclifton5896 thank you for the kind words, yeah Bison is more sensitive, if you're in the USA the Cabasse Murano is really the best deal in hifi right now, 50% off at upscale audio. If you're in my free discord an early link to the video is up.

[@charlesclifton5896]

@@NemoPropaganda Bison twin towers ... 90 db, perfect. I'll check out the Murano. Live in Canada but not far from the border. Again, big thanks.

[@dexterts1]

Regarding Elac’s,if you could get your hand on the Concentro S503,boring they are not😁 Really interesting speaker,expensive yes,bit you can get a good offer from time to time

[@NemoPropaganda]

Elac seems to be a miss for me, it's always good but I always feel its a bit over hyped.

[@dexterts1]

@@NemoPropaganda In my experience there is a significant difference between Andrew Jones’s Elac speakers and German designed Elac’s which almost always use jet amt twitter. Elac Vela’s are a good option to start,but surprise surprise I didn’t find them moving me enough,but with Concetro’s it’s a whole different story. You can google the,they have r3 like concept but they use amt instead of the dome twitter in there concentric driver.

[@edwinsprojects7039]

Does anyone here have any input on ATC SCM19 vs Harbeth? I heard Harbeth is a top contender. Great review here like always💯😎

[@kevinthorpe5945]

I always wonder when it comes to how things are valued, what I can find that accomplishes my goals perfectly but maybe is lower in “market value” because “overall” it isn’t as good as something else. That is where I try to exploit speaker prices. I also don’t always want to spend up to my budget if I think I can get my goals accomplished without paying for extra things of little importance to me. That brings me to the Fritz Carbon 7 SE and the ATC’s. If both were the same price would you still be purchasing the ATC’s? I’m curious if value is playing a role or just your general fondness of this speaker regardless of value. Mid clarity and realism is my target. Helps with my thought process. Great content as always!

[@NemoPropaganda]

Any assessment without a price reference is meaningless. The price is a major factor in all my assessments. The main reason I don't own the Fritz is the size is a little too large for my aesthetic preferences. The Focal Aria 906 was my neutral/anaylitcal speaker reference, it's a tool I use for this YT channel. That tool has been replaced with a better one, the SCM11. The Fritz would not serve that same function, it's a different sound.

[@kevinthorpe5945]

Ok thats fair, for someone looking for midrange clarity and being flexible on the rest- is there anything you can generally say about the difference between the Fritz and ATC sound that would sway someone? Are there any other mid range champions in the 2k-3k range you recommend checking out so I can learn my tastes better? As you’ve said on your videos before- you don’t usually highlight midrange. That makes it tougher to ask you intelligent questions regarding comparing speakers based on that. Doing my best lol don’t be too critical :)

[@NemoPropaganda]

@@kevinthorpe5945 The Fritz has a more prominent midrange and can get away with cheaper amplification, if you have the budget its worth the few hundred bucks more it cost without a doubt. Thomas TL Voyager has a pretty amazing midrange as does the Mon Supermon Mini but those are both niche speakers for their own reasons.

[@larsvongehlen103]

Hey, thank you, very nice review. I have the ATC scm11 together with an Accuphase e206 and Keces ephono. I'm looking for an upgrade to the Accuphase. I've tried an Atoll in300 and was a little bit disappointed, the Accuphase kicks him😉. Thinking about Cambridge Edge A , Naim Supernait 3 or Hegel H190. Any other proposals or recommandations?? Greetings from Germany

[@NemoPropaganda]

try to demo a Pathos if possible, any of them.

[@larsvongehlen103]

​@@NemoPropagandathx for the hint. I've tried Pathos Classic One and the Logos. The sound of the Classic One was sublime but the Logos was disappointed in my ears...that is only my impression. Unfortunately I can't listen to the Classic Remix, is he near to the classic one?? Best regards

[@umitr]

@@larsvongehlen103 My suggestion is that you should try the Sugden series amplifier.

[@Romulus980]

Nemo you have understood what ATC want to do with the sound; a very good review. Would you consider reviewing ATC SCM19 or even the SCM40 or jump into active ATC speakers...?

[@NemoPropaganda]

Yes, I plan to review more ATC in the future, very good stuff!!! They understand how to let the music sound beautiful :)

[@acousticillusive]

"most speakers, when they're neutral, they tend to come across as a little boring" - Nemo. My take on this observation is that it's likely not because the loudspeakers being refereed to measure flat, per se. Rather they are not dynamically transparent and or efficient enough, relatively speaking! And, because such, often hitting the loudness button, or trying to boost some aspect of the spectrum might be used to try and add excitement or presence to the sound artificially. crossover-less, active, multi-driver/ported/first order/time aligned more efficient designs might not have same limitations, as say a 4th order crossed 2 way small book shelf, for example. I just think people are missing this perspective. My 2c

[@andrewmccorkell652]

A reason not to get the scm11 is the scm19. Better still the scm19A active.

[@phfen]

Your review has convinced me to go for the ATC SMC 11 (instead of the Buchardt or the R3 Meta with which I was hesitating with). Now could you please suggest a few integrated amps that would go well with these SMC 11 (I am coming back to Hifi after 30 years and damn, so much has changed !) ? I am thinking Yamaha R-N803, NAD C388… Would that be coherent ? I am opened to all ideas. Many thanks ! That is a fantastic review among other fantastic reviews !

[@NemoPropaganda]

Hello, a lot has changed in terms of how good the affordable stuff has become and streaming is really popular now as physical media has become less popular. As far as amp pairings it just depends what your budget is and what you want from an amp in terms of features or lack of. If you're looking for a purist piece that leans warm tonally and will give you excellent sound for the money the CHoco EMEI is a great option, if you want something a little more tonally neutral but still has some emotion the Pathos Classic One MK3 is great, if you need more features the NAD you listed should fit the bill though I have not heard it I would not pair the SCM11 with most class D amps as the sound could become a bit sterile.

[@phfen]

@@NemoPropagandathank you ! The Pathos is overpriced for me and the Choco EMEI is not available here in Europe it seems. Any other suggestions?

[@NemoPropaganda]

​@@phfen The EMEI is sold online through Kinki Studio website, I think its sold worldwide. Hegel is good too, and I will review the new IotaVX amp soon but I don't have it yet.

[@phfen]

Hi @@NemoPropaganda, Sorry, coming back to you concerning the ideal amp to pair the ATC. I found the Choco. Too expensive for me (2100$ here in Europe with taxes). I'd like not to spend more than 2000$, streamer included. You mentioned Hegel. Would a Hegel 120 be what you have in mind and would its rated power be sufficient ? Whereas for the iotavx, which model are you soon reviewing ? thank you !

[@NemoPropaganda]

@@phfen I will be reviewing the SA40, have you tried contacting ATC to see if there is any amp in your budget range they have good results with?

[@indignato4711]

Hi, but is it true that they don't go much lower than other speakers in the same price range and that they even need a subwoofer? Thank you

[@Taffy84]

They need a sub, they go down to 56hz.

[@NemoPropaganda]

yes, it's a sealed speaker, bass is high quality but it will not be room filling bass without a sub.

[@ben23a31]

And (yet) Another One ! Big ups. I take it you heard about the new HSU Sub? Btw, you looking a little Slim bro. You good?

[@NemoPropaganda]

thank you, I'm 100% good, been fasting since jan 3rd, only eating 1 meal a day, that 1 meal is usually a 1.5 lb ribeye so I'm not starving myself by any means :) yeah I seen the HSU sub but they're not interested in working with me.

[@ben23a31]

@@NemoPropaganda that's what's up. Can't go wrong with Ribeye. HSU if you're seeing this "let it go Dr.HSU" and pls send Nemo the new sub ! ✊🏼

[@chriskiato680]

Hi Nemo. How do they compare to the CSS 1TD and the X??? Would make a great video.

[@NemoPropaganda]

totally different, CSS is dark & warm with incredibly strong bass and CSS can get away with running more inexpensive amplification. The only thing they have in common is they're both hard to drive and require quality power but with CSS you'll be fine with inexpensive yet powerful class D or cheaper a/b solutions where SCM11 should be treated like a higher end speaker.

[@chriskiato680]

@@NemoPropaganda Thank you. You made my decision even harder to choose :). If you are buying them they must be worth the money.

[@davidrivera2165]

ATC is world renowned for their Larger standmount Active speakers (built in amplification), specially for Pro monitor series. I'm sure the SCM11 are excellent. Thanks for the review and comparisons. As you said it mostly comes down to preference. In my case great soundstage imaging paired with excellent scale and neutrality is my preference. As such KEF R3 meta is my pick all day.

[@xstensl8823]

i use the 7's with Rega amplifier. great match.

[@NemoPropaganda]

Nice! I hope to check out the 7's and 19's at some point!

[@Taffy84]

@@NemoPropaganda HiFi Riff just reviewed the 7's a couple of days ago 9/10.

[@HB-ow8os]

Would a Denon 4800H AVR work with these until a separate amp could be added later? Or would the Kef work better with an AVR?

[@NemoPropaganda]

neither speaker will be best served by an AVR but theres nothing wrong with running things imperfectly temporarily while you save up more money. You might not be super impressed with the speakers initially with an AVR but that's okay. My buddy ran his Focal Kanta off a 4800H for 1 year until he could save up enough for a proper hifi amp. It still sounded great, just not as good as it sounded in my room with my higher end amps. No big deal, I support incremental upgrades, it's okay for the system to be imperfect while we save up :)

[@riccitone]

Really, really great review with comparisons as always! I was between getting these or the Spendor 4/5 classics. But without hearing both, I just gut purchased the Spendors - which I LOVE. Shouldn't even ask this as people must bother you with this all the time... but would love to hear your impression of some small Spendors! Cause now I want a pair of these 🙄 🐇 🕳️

[@NemoPropaganda]

maybe in the future :)

[@Idol_Goro]

Great review. My amp has no pre-outs for a sub, but if these are paired with a one (or two), they're very difficult to beat for the price. The price unfortunately being quite a bit higher in your neck of the woods, but still a top-tier speaker in its category. Speaking of this competitive segment, have your eyes (or ears) crossed the Revela 1 from Quad that recently released? They certainly look impressive but reviews seem mostly limited to magazines and eastern markets rn.

[@amb3cog]

You don't need sub-outs, or pre-outs to use subs. Even if they don't have high level inputs. They make converters, and there's a video on this channel about this very subject. That will explain everything in more detail.✌️

[@Idol_Goro]

Nice! I'll keep that in mind if I start craving a sub with this current amp@@amb3cog

[@NemoPropaganda]

I have not heard of that one, Quad isn't really popular in the US.

[@Idol_Goro]

@@NemoPropaganda Quad doesn’t seem like a popular brand in general (outside of some old-school dudes with their esl). These new speakers in particular don’t seem to have caught on yet. I’m not sure why. I suspect they’re going to get a glowing review from one of the more popular outlets then all aboard the hype train :D

[@seanb3303]

Do they come with grills?

[@NemoPropaganda]

yes, very unique once, google a pic and you'll see what I mean, it's like wire steel, very spartan looking, you'll either love it or hate it.

[@backrack01]

vs the Fritz Carbons you had in there??

[@NemoPropaganda]

The Carbon 7 is a great example of where going with a smaller company that cuts out the middle man can really get you something special. The two both have outstanding sepparation but the larger fritz has stronger bass and a slightly more pronounced midrange. I think personal taste will be the determining factor as they are both very good.

[@nc3419]

Some lucky dog picked up a used pair practically new carbon 7 BE for alot off. Wanted to but funds had to go elsewhere. The one that got away story. I think it would have fit my tastes. Even the softdome would be fine. I have a very short list of speakers to get when I am ready.

[@backrack01]

@nc3419 you will find Fritz speakers on the resale market semi regularly. But they do seem to sell quickly. He has so many options.. I wish I could compare them all.

[@BudgetAudioFan]

@@nc3419I have a pair I’d sell. I’ve upgraded to a much bigger speaker.

[@Voidoid77]

I'd love to own a pair of ATC SCM 19's, but I live in an apartment in Japan... And don't really want to be kicked-out because I need to use a sub to get the bass I like... (Being the only 'gaijin' in the 12 apt. block I kinda stand-out... and a couple of previous tenants in the block complained directly to the letting agency when I played music... even tho' I never went over around 85dB and *never* after 9.30pm... !!)

[@rosstee]

That's a shame, sounds like you'd be better off looking at some nice headphones, assuming you can't move!

[@NemoPropaganda]

oooof, yeah brother like someone else said, it might be best you be a headphone guy for a little while and maybe add a little subwoofer in your car to satisfy the bass craving.

[@donjaun540]

Have you ever heard Aperion Verus V8B❓ I hope you do. It's around the price range $1500 or less for me, sorry broke my back and very limited income. What would you recommend that blew your mind in that range or less❓

[@nc3419]

Alot of good speakers out there. I can vouch if you need something affordable, that plays nice with most any amps, a used Triangle Zeta Plaisir/Color series could do the trick for music and movies at reasonable SPLs . I found them more engaging emotionally and enjoyable than alot of others costing alot more. I am also partial to paper woofers over those using other material generally speaking and from personal experience. But there's alot used today that could suffice. Sorry about your injury and hope you heal well.

[@NemoPropaganda]

I have not heard that one but Heco Celan Revolution 3 are my top recommendation under $1500 if you can find them.

[@donjaun540]

@@NemoPropaganda Thanks Nemo. I will keep an eye out for them. They appear to be sold out everywhere. 😮🤬

[@khooc.f6801]

i saw you had kinki amp and my is M7. can scm11 able to push upto 85% performance or more?

[@NemoPropaganda]

I'm not sure I understand the question, can you please rephrase it?

[@khooc.f6801]

can kinki m7 able to drive good performance for atc scm 11？

[@NemoPropaganda]

@@khooc.f6801 oh yeah, it should be great :)

[@JingoLoBa57]

And I wonder how the Elac BS283 might compare

[@1950flandert]

what is the difference between ATC 11 v1 and version v2..they also look different ???

[@NemoPropaganda]

I never heard the V1. Only this current version.

[@jharismaiden]

Looks like ATC speakers are worth an audition when it’s time for an upgrade from my KEF R3!

[@dennisheadley4408]

Depending on taste, that might not be an upgrade.

[@NemoPropaganda]

I would not call one speaker better than the other, that's more a lateral move but personal taste will decide.

[@NemoPropaganda]

100% agree.

[@benjamin_lecomte]

i'm curious what you think of them against the Arendal 1723 s

[@NemoPropaganda]

Aside from both being sealed and harder to drive they don't have much in common, it's hard to describe the differences because I would use simlar words to describe each speaker. If you were building a theater I'd say save the money and go for the 1723, if it was dedicated 2ch hifi and the extra $400 isn't a big deal go for the ATC.

[@benjamin_lecomte]

@@NemoPropaganda thx for the reply. I hope you will have the chance to review the little brother the SCM7 to see what you think of it with a subwoofer as in a HT configuration they could proove to be cheaper overall for a 5.1 system than the arendal counterpart

[@erwinvangrinsven9345]

And again the UK beat the French‼️ Greetings from Holland😀

[@themastroiannis]

napoleon??

[@erwinvangrinsven9345]

@@themastroiannis yes, and music

[@andreacountry8471]

I have a pair of ATC SCM19 but in my new house I will have to put them in a room of only 12 square meters... this worries me a lot

[@NemoPropaganda]

I have not heard the 19 so I don't know if that will be good or bad but I'm sure you can make it work with some light room treatment, maybe just 2 bass traps in the back corner and panels at the first reflection point.

[@losriosprofundos2113]

You’ve probably been asked this before, but what are your thoughts on ASR? They completely trashed the ATC SCM 19s. A Stereophile review said the 19s are the better value, maybe all the speaker a lot of folks will ever need.

[@NemoPropaganda]

I think being an extremeist of any kind is never a good thing and I see a lot of that coming from ASR. I think they had a good idea at first but humans are not very civilized yet and I see many people use ASR to obssess into madness or to validate the idea that their affordable product is just as good as something more expensive. They are a hifi gestapo that seem to become quickly enraged if you don't 100% agree with them and they shout down any idea that goes against their belief.

[@lsaideOK]

Even if all your subwoofers were stolen, you would still take this over the Buchardt?

[@NemoPropaganda]

I don't understand the question, I think you misunderstood what I said.

[@lsaideOK]

​@@NemoPropagandaYou said if every set of speakers you owned were stolen, you'd want these to remain. Was wondering if you could live with these alone without the help of any subwoofer or, in that instance, would you want the Buchardts?

[@NemoPropaganda]

@@lsaideOK oh I understand now, no, I don't think I can live with any speakers without a subwoofer :) Even when a speaker has good bass it's still coming from a small driver, it lacks the efforlessness and scale that only a larger driver or dedicated sub can produce. Even a small sub like T7X has a much larger sense of scale than any speaker wtih a 6" driver.

[@RennieAsh]

@@NemoPropaganda A lot of a sub's "sense of scale" I find comes because it's on the floor. I've put cheap speakers with 6" on the floor, and they "sound like subs". But yes, a larger driver also tends to have lower IMD and more coupling to the air.

[@NemoPropaganda]

@@RennieAsh perhaps that is true in your specific room, I do not believe that is universally true.

[@donjaun540]

How much for the Focal. I 🤔 thought you said $8-900 😮

[@NemoPropaganda]

after the review I realized while I have the box I don't have the foam so no way to ship them :( I'm going to have to rely on a local sale.

[@donjaun540]

@@NemoPropaganda 😭😭😭

[@donjaun540]

@@NemoPropaganda Can you @ least say what state you live in ❓

[@donjaun540]

@@NemoPropaganda Also Nemo did you consider my question about Aperion speakers ❓ You know I wish my small city had a place to go to listen to different speakers. Wish. I wonder if LA does ❓

[@NemoPropaganda]

@@donjaun540 I'm in southern california. Sorry I did not see any questinos about Aperion.

[@sdrtcacgnrjrc]

-USA only- (?) their website is unable to locate me - when I download a list of all dealers, they all in the USA. Probably too expensive for me anyways (my experience when they play hard to get)

[@NemoPropaganda]

the link is for the USA distributor that provided the review sample. I don't think anyone is playing hard to get. It's not uncommon for brands to have master distributors for certain countries.

[@sdrtcacgnrjrc]

@@NemoPropaganda true, they're not playing hard to get. I often check out the price before watching a review. I do often find the high-end websites are especially challenging in terms of trying to find info about (a) price , and (b) where to buy. Sorry if I'm being downbeat ... it's not a dig at you.

[@Taffy84]

What country you in? If Canada, HiFi Attic sells ATC.

[@NemoPropaganda]

@@sdrtcacgnrjrc I understand what you mean, the traditional dealer model products sometimes do not represent themselves online as well as the direct brands. You can go on SVS website and everything is clear but you go on Monitor Audio and there are no prices listed for anything which is annoying. I think some brands with dealer models do a really good job with their website like REL or KEF but I do understand what you mean.

[@amb3cog]

@@sdrtcacgnrjrcYea what country are you in? They are actually expensive here in the US. They're much cheaper to buy in Europe AFAIK. So maybe the price is better than you think where you are at. If you're not in the US that is. ✌️

[@WILLIAMMORALES-gw1zz]

I think for the money only the bmr narrowly beats it. To my tastes nothing else under 3k beats bmr and Atc 11.

[@NemoPropaganda]

I never heard the bmr but the cabinet looks very nice!

[@carlsitler9071]

I've had bad luck with British speakers like Wharfedale. Based on my limited experience, my favorite drivers are Danish.

[@NemoPropaganda]

I wouldn't paint them all with the same brush but certain regions sometimes can have a similar sound.

[@carlsitler9071]

@@NemoPropaganda What? Speakers are different than race? 😲

[@NemoPropaganda]

@@carlsitler9071 lololol

[@nc3419]

I have Focal, Triangle Zetas and Dali Opticon 1s (and Cambridge MinX XL for desktop/casual use). Wanted something smaller than my Focals and both the Zetas and Opticons 1 give a bit of what the Focals do with different sound signatures. I can prefer one or the other depending on music, soundtrack, etc., with the Opticon being more resolving but the Zeta more musical with its slightly laid back vocals and ability to throw a large soundstage without making instruments sound distorted as so many budget speakers do. For an inexpensive speaker, they have been more pleasurable to listen to than alot of others even costing upwards of 2K, so I thought I would live with their inherent weaknesses because they, along with most others having theor own weaknesses, or at least areas where you wish performance were better. For their price, no reason to sell. I have listened to various Wharfedales, Quad S2, MA Silver 100s and 50s, Dynaudio Emit 10, Triangle Borea 2, Titus EZ, Dali Menuet SE among others and each had significant issues in certain areas and I found I could still live with the Zetas, or even the Opticons though they are constrained by size and have more issues with more complex arrangements. The Focals are better by degree(s) than either but are large. The ATC would shave off a few inches and aren't really so large a speaker so it has interested me in the past although it would need to play well at both low to moderate SPLs in a midsize room. I think I was told by a sales rep it needs to be turned up to really shine but can't say as I never tried. I do still have an amp that could power these in a Hegel h160 but the other two (as well as the Focals) are easily driven by my smaller but capable Keces E40 with about 50 watts give or take. Both smaller speakers sound a bit more lively on the Hegel but the Keces is no slouch either. I get more glare/sharpness on the Dali with the Hegel with voices so everything is a give and take. The Focals really do alot well. Have said no to many other speakers in the price category including the Focal Aria which I think is overpriced in the US and the Poron speaker seemed too refined for my tastes. I think the Harbeth, Falcons and other British speakers held some interest each having limitations in their own design and looking at frequency charts, it kind of shows what one might hear and tend to be slanted towards certain music. So, some speakers may sound great for some material while others may be preferred for other kinds. I try to find the best general approach that does everything well enough. The Focals I have do that but they're big and I want smaller and smaller drivers can do things spatially that larger woofers don't as well. Easy to drive is a consideration but this review really makes me think. Another thing is the woofer which I believe is a doped paper cone. It's been typical that I have preferred a doped paper/wood pulp/paper infused material as opposed to those using aluminum, magnesium, kevlar or related fibers, etc. I had old Paradigms that used polypropylene but still prefer the paper variants (except the ones now used by Triangle) so there's that. Even though material is stated to be less a factor than overall implementation and crossover, still for me paper generally rules. Also, ATC has strong competition among other British manufacturers such as ProAC, PMC, among some others. Also prefer that a company not outsource production including materials to the far east and rather keep things in house, or at least use drivers from specialized European producers. Seems like the ATC is a plus on many levels. Would like to know if they are equally talented at lower to moderate SPls. That might just seal the deal on these sealed speakers.

[@amb3cog]

⁠British speakers like Wharfedale can be on the warm side. Certainly not well known for being airy. But they usually get the midrange and the PRAT right. Another thing is that they all take into consideration the type of housing they have in the UK. Which is small, built differently (much older) and uses different materials than we do in the US. But IME. Even living in my modern condo. They can sound really good. But never very exciting I suppose. That said. They are British after all. Maybe try modern Kef speakers. They're more exciting, and well rounded. I love my Wharfedale, but my Kef R300's beat them for sure. Or these ATC, because they are certainly not the traditional UK sounding speaker either. ✌️

[@joecharpentier6636]

Im going to be buying a used like new pair of Scm 11's for $1,300. I currently am running rhe legendary Jamo Concert 8's. Are you familiar with them? Do you think its a good choice over the Concert 8's?

[@NemoPropaganda]

That’s a pretty old speaker, I have not heard that one personally.

[@phfen]

Merci !

[@NemoPropaganda]

thank you sir!

[@Birmingham_racing]

I'm from uk I've never actually looked into these

[@NemoPropaganda]

I'm from the UK too, just don't live there anymore :)

[@Birmingham_racing]

@@NemoPropaganda when did you move to the states?

[@NemoPropaganda]

@@Birmingham_racing parents moved me out here when I was 6 so a rather long time ago now :)

[@kevinwest1607]

Two grand! Im out

[@NemoPropaganda]

I'd just like to point out that so far you've only ever commented twice and both times they were a bit negative. That's not a good vibe to carry around.