Speaker of the Year 2022! Cheap Audio Man Awards... Remember... they're meaningless

[@cheapaudioman]

"Get up to 40% off Ekster wallets this Christmas when you use my link or discount code shop.ekster.com/cheapaudioman CHEAPAUDIOMAN" PSB Imagine XB Bookshelf speakers - howl.me/cgXfkhsyNSX Wharfedale Denton 80th Anniversary bit.ly/3CMjiT0 Emotiva B2+ bit.ly/3zNZltO Support the Channel by Shopping on Amazon amzn.to/3W8vsgK Cheap Audio Man Store Front shop.howl.me/cam Join the best hifi community out there! www.patreon.com/cheapaudioman TRY ROON roonlabs.com/r/RTmYWdCP9kitqouBa5pcIw Tidal Deal bit.ly/3siuqSF Amazon Unlimited Music Trial amzn.to/3DRAVj9 Crutchfield shop-links.co/cguPK8XEGmt Best Buy Deals shop-links.co/cf9yDZeYtUH amzn.to/3GkNaop CAM Store (New Products!) bit.ly/30Lgu4K apos.audio?sca_ref=552340.TY98BPcZ6P massdrop.7eer.net/qnOye5

[@JohnScheppler]

It's an honor to just be nominated to this list and all great list of speakers. Congratulations to the winners 🏆

[@sPi711]

I've come to the point where I don't care about "super big bass" from a so-called bookshelf speaker. I believe if they're trying to do too much on the low end, that means they're taking something away from the mid-range. So if it starts to roll off at around ~65 Hertz , I can live with that by crossing over to a sub around that limit.

[@afox561]

I bought the PSB Imagine XB bookshelf speakers and matching center channel and they are fantastic! I am very happy with the sound quality and sound stage. Got them on sale for 20% off. Thanks, they are awesome!

[@ASillyLlama]

Let’s take a second to appreciate the festive background 🎉

[@MattH604]

So happy to hear you mention the B2+ since your initial impression . Bought them day after they came out to replace B1+ as main fronts . I have loved them . They do rock , jazz , and Daft Punk like no other bookshelf . They continue to show me things I’ve never heard before in music I’ve listened to for years . I put together some build it yourself furniture last night and put on some soft jazz to keep me calm as the furniture was gonna make me angry guaranteed . Found myself paused just listening to how amazing the B2+ sounded and not putting on ten thousand small screws in the furniture using the magazine sized instructions . What a great speaker .

[@surfer8210]

IKEA strikes again…!!

[@foldspacenavigator6011]

Thanks Randy. Though I appreciate and enjoy some other reviewers showing off viewer’s high priced systems, many audiophiles may never hit that point of acquisition in the short term (or longer) or even desire to do so based on math, subjective preferences and lifestyle priority. Hoping you will consider doing an occasional CAM viewer system share as I believe this would be of value, good entertainment and aspirational drive for those new to the fold or, for those who simply do not want to break the bank to enjoy some sonic nirvana. Considering all of the affordable high-quality options out there, the audiophile arena is anything but VIP access so kudos to you and your channel for widening the gateway. Cheers!

[@syfrettsj]

I just (12/11/22) saw the Sony SSCS5 speakers on sale for $98 at Amazon. Total surprise. Decided to give them a try and compare against the speakers I bought earlier this year, also based on your review. Thanks!

[@jemsmay2167]

My CAM inspired system, listening to right now: WiiM mini (paid $69) connected by optic to Aiyima T9 ($98.99) with tubes rolled to 5654W ($23) feeding Sony CS5’s ($109). Amazon music or Spotify direct WiFi into the WiiM. Spectacular near field, relatively low volume sound all in for under $300. Still amazes me how good this sounds for the price.

[@IanMcBride]

Video quality is looking so good! Keep up the great work, Randy!

[@eaqrp]

You’re my audio measuring stick. Very meaningful. I gauge equipment through your reviews and comparisons. Maybe I do a systemic error, but it’s easier to correct at the end. 😂

[@aronfreitag]

I bought a pair of the Emotiva B2+ immediately after the initial CAM quasi-review, and have been happy with them for months. I liked them so much in my office that I tried them in my living room and they didn't do so well with a large area unless you're using a subwoofer. I love electronic music, and IMO these beefy bookshelf speakers are best when used in a near-field monitoring setup.

[@matthewharhai4039]

Woohoo, I bought the B2+ last week plus the TA1 integrated amplifier, ERC-4 CD player and XS8 subwoofer. Just got notification from Emotiva that my 4 items were shipped today!

[@matthewharhai4039]

Gonna be a sweet system for my bedroom with my SVS Prime Pinnacles and Prime Towers in my living room with Denon x3700h, Denon CD player plus dual SVS SB-2000 Pro Subs.

[@jeffotten197]

Good choice! This past year I've had the TA1 and ERC-4 hooked up to Elac UniFi 2.0's and an older Polk Audio sub and just love it.

[@matthewharhai4039]

@Jeff Otten Wow, what a magical, synergistic combo! Makes me even more excited to get mine. Thanks for the comment! When I looked at Emotiva, I could see quality and the price is so reasonable.

[@amybusel2819]

Hey Matthew, Let us know how that turns out once you connect it all ?

[@matthewharhai4039]

@Amy Busel Will do. Bought a streamer and cables ahead of time.

[@jonnynash364]

Randy, Your the most straight forward honest guy about audio components, and I’ve based my purchasing options on your opinions, I do have a piece of music to add to your beta test list. J.S Bach Toccata and Fuege in D. This will truly test the range, clarity, sounds stage, and presence of a system

[@mikelanier5617]

Still have my discontinued Emotiva Airmotiv 6s powered monitors that are 210 watts per speaker and are really impressive on my computer system. Same design as the B2+ but powered. RME adi-2 dac fed by balanced xlrs. Fantastic!

[@scottengh1175]

Nice selection. Coffee started at 4:30 and was rushing until now. Had a Coke to watch. Beautiful stockings, hung on the mantle with care.

[@keithkearney8973]

Wow Randy,between black friday/thanksgiving/Xmas sales and no more than 6 stockings on the mantle to fill for Santa you still bang out great content,top channel award goes to....CAM😉😁

[@T_Burd_75]

I can relate to the AMT tweeters. I recently purchased a pair of Dayton Audio B452-AIR speakers with the AMT tweeters. Paired with a subwoofer, these sound crisp and clear. I filled up the cabinets with poly filling and it smoothed out the mids nicely. Probably the best sounding pair of speakers I've heard for $40/pair.

[@scenic6322]

My setup of Wiim Mini > Geshelli J2 > SMSL ao200 > Emotiva B2+ with RSL Speedwoofer 10s MKii sub has been absolutely amazing. I highly recommend this setup for anyone looking to spend around $1500. Its great for both music and movies. Thanks for all the recommendations this year, I wouldn't have found it without your channel!

[@jeffsloane8628]

This is a killer system. Nice job putting these winners together.

[@scenic6322]

@@crazyprayingmantis5596 I got it from their website. I was on a mailing list for when they come available. I just looked and they are in stock right now if you are trying to get one.

[@johnpravato2739]

I was hoping you had a powered speaker of the year included in this video...thanks for your knowledgeable and entertaining videos

[@DavidEVogel]

An active subwoofer uses a class D power amplifier. So called "hi-fi enthusiasts" prefer a class A or B power amplifier. Could this be the reason?

[@dansaudioreviews]

I got a couple Wharfedale floor standing speakers back on a major sale because of a video you made. Loved them over the Elac I had prior (didn’t like the warmth of the elac). Loved your recommendation. Now, I find myself saving a lot again on another Wharfedale, this time for monitoring my work. I didn’t know you would mention how you used it yourself for referencing these days, but I was so happy to hear that you do. Sold! Now, to figure out a good amp setup 🤔 If you happen to catch this and have time to reply, I would love to hear what you use or recommend. 🙇🏻‍♂️ awesome stuff man!

[@gg0297]

Great video, Sir! I love the background and camera quality. 👌

[@Simon_Hawkshaw]

Thank you again for your reviews and insights that continue to help me improve my journey down the auditory rabbithole. However, my SVS Ultra Bookshelf speakers are my endgame speakers, for now. Thanks as always for your time, effort, and assistance.

[@vvraithz]

Surprised there was no CSS audio in this list.

[@MJ-ge6jz]

Since I have found your channel you are becoming a dangerous influence on my wallet. It takes great strength to not click that buy button on the B2+!

[@orwhat24]

I love these “best of” vids!

[@happytimeswithdave8670]

Randy I been using the Elac and I love it.

[@thomasward00]

The Wharfedale Denton's have MUCH better build quality than the Emotiva B2+......

[@CinemaDemocratica]

I'm sure everyone knows this, but it is the avowed policy of the US Postal Service that, if you find a wallet and it has an official address anywhere inside it (such as on a driver's license) you can drop the wallet in any USPS Blue Box and they will return it to the owner for free. You don't have to put the wallet in any packaging and you don't have to put postage on it.

[@Brett1334]

I would love to hear the Emotiva and don’t doubt it’s fantastic, but man oh man I wish they would try some different finish options or something

[@ElbowsUnique]

I was going to say the same. I hate the look. But those Wharfedale Dentons, damn, chef's kiss.

[@johnbeyers4104]

I have had my eye on the 80th Anniversary Dentons for a while now - They don't look like an inexpensive speaker. But, frankly, my 20+ year old JBL Control CM42 monitors look way better than the Emotiva - and they sound pretty decent for what they are.

[@jimbob3030]

My Darth Vader designed jbl studio 590's even think those are ugly and outdated looking.

[@edricjr7930]

Hi Randy! 🙂 I went with the B1+ due to space issues 😮 but I'm sure I won't be disappointed as they replace my 20+ year old DBX speakers. 👍🏽👍🏽 I used the affiliate link to get you that cup of coffee 😋😁 . . . Cheers & Happy Holidays! ✨✨

[@qwkimball]

Why aren't these awards called the CAMEOs? Cheap Audio Man Exceptional Option Awards.

[@jimbob3030]

Cheapaudiomans video quality doesn't look cheap. I notice a visible upgrade.

[@Man_Ray78]

Merry xmas, Man. Is this an green screen behind you? I have been watching your cheap watches channel but this is my first time here. Revently got me an obsession about watches ,never had that before. But i have to get me new speakers.

[@brentbeamer6480]

Randy….just an FYI the imagine XB is on a huge sale on PSBs website. They are now 499.00 Canadian at this moment. I just bought a 5.0 system with the xb’s front and back….the center channel is also on sale. Insane value. BTW best audio reviewer out there! Grab a cup of coffee Randy and pat yourself on the back.

[@CruzGonzalez2594]

Got a pair of vintage Monitor Audio Gold One. These tiny speakers sound like giants!

[@louise_8546]

Looking very Xmassy, Randy! Happy Christmas to you and yours :) and Happy 2024 :) Edit: Er 2023 - why did I type 2024?

[@cameronrector178]

Digging the sexy fireside chat look! 😂

[@danpickard3258]

Randy: What is your humble opinion on the top five (or so) speaker stands that can work with variety of speakers. An effective way to get a compact ie bookshelf speaker system to sound much better is to… get the speakers off the bookshelf, off the coffee table, off the countertop, or off the floor…. to position them better in the room and decoupled from whatever surface the turntable and electronics are on? Using a choice like your “Speaker of Year 2022” above to test some stands that don’t cost more than the speakers themselves may lead to many folks being happier with “their speakers.” The problem perhaps not with "their speakers" but that speaker stands were considered an optional accessory when they acquired speakers. Speaker stands should be considered part of the sound system as important as other components? This may need a video? PS: What kind of coffee do you drink? Maybe we need a cheap and high-value coffee review?

[@everydayaudiophile]

"increasing their prices like everybody" lol! From my shopping around, RSL speakers was the only company this year that didn't do a single price increase. they actually re designed their budget line and brought the price DOWN!

[@qqsrx]

I watched twice including the Ekster wallet ads

[@jayarmstrong]

This video seems a lot quieter than normal. Would appreciate higher volume for those of us watching KZbin while active / without headphones

[@engineer4862]

Would you recommend Denton's for electronic music enthusiasts? Are they suitable for 18-25m2(193-269ft2) size rooms?

[@stevepiette6926]

Randy, which would you prefer B2+ or T0+?

[@michaelvanbuskirk8845]

I thought for sure it was going to be the Polk R200.

[@manw3bttcks]

I just bought a elac bs41 pair to use with a smsl sa300 with my desktop. They're a bit big for computer speakers but I can make the room. My venerable Yamaha computer speakers needed replaced.

[@RUMBLEGO1]

That PSB is now at the same price that the Polk R200 is at when it is on sale. That being said? Which do you think is the better speaker kind sir?

[@jolkraeremeark6949]

I need to apologize, sir, for questioning you and your sponsors. After thinking about it, I appreciate you and your videos and if the sponsors keep the vids alive, more power to all of us. SORRY

[@kylebalderson9075]

How would you compare the SOY with the Wharfedale EVO 4.2? I’m trying the 4.2s out but can’t decide.

[@guyb7005]

Emotiva B2+ are now $686 no longer $499 three weeks after this video came out - really don't understand the pricing. Hey, what about the Paradigm SE Atom's you once reviewed?

[@carlosalvarez7445]

Too bad you went for the Denton 80th instead of the 85th which are amazing! Paired with the PS Audio Sprout 100, the are revealing, engaging, exciting! Pair them with a tube amp and they are sweet, relaxing and embracing! Gotta love'em!

[@templar.]

does this mean your opinion on the diy kits has changed?

[@stevedimitriadis]

Video looks great! Nice setup upgrade!

[@cheapaudioman]

Thanks for noticing. I"ve been trying to get a bit better with my production

[@gerrymcgowan4194]

Looking sharp in that shirt bro.

[@thepracticalaudiophile]

Before watching I'm assuming it's going to be an Emotiva speaker.

[@Jack-oc2fc]

omg randy beautiful backdrop I LOVE IT!

[@FlyGuy457]

I have the Elac. Versus a soundbar. Its fantastic and I compare it to the UniFi 2.0. that I bought based on your recommendation. Great stuff.

[@janachildres3823]

Is it weird that I have a crush on you? You are so awesome. Your videos have really improved so much. Now I own more speakers than any chick should own - some still in boxes. Also - never knew I needed a DAC until you. Keep on making my day.

[@Odesos]

When "Cheap" is 650$ OOOOKAY

[@roach6791]

Hi cheapaudioman, I absolutely love your reviews so please keep them coming. I want to put together a system for a small space (around 70sq/ft), the goal is to be able to listen to good HiFi music but I also want to create a good surround system set up for movies. What do you recommend because the space is too small for both systems? Thanks in advance.

[@debbieverret4033]

Thanks for all you do, an honest approach to how to buy speakers, and where to place and use them. Thank you.

[@911jason]

I have been saving for SVS Ultra bookshelves to pair with my Ultra center in my second system, but budget has had me looking at the Primes instead. How do you think the B2+ compare to those?

[@tx9262]

PSB XB's used to be $500, as when I first purchased them. Are they worth their new price? Easily... Yes! (Pair with NAD? Wonderful.)

[@JTB--]

I got a KRK ROKIT RP7 G4 7 bundle on Black Friday. Great monitor speakers for recording/mixing or music listening. Also really good connected to a DAC for Gaming and Movies/TV. Not exactly a XMAS stocking stuffer, but great speakers

[@surfmorworkless]

Why his videos get clearer as time goes on? More subscribers, and the cheap audio man is movin’ on up finally got a piece a the pie? He got that fancy camera now.

[@calebyi2727]

Cheap audio has our backs when we don’t want to spend and arm and a leg on great audio equipment. Btw what are the best speakers under 200 right now?

[@SyzygyNoon]

If anyone’s interested, the Sony SSCS5 is now $98.00 on Amazon as of 12/10/22!

[@willisbush956]

Everyone feels the effects of inflation, including speaker manufacturers. That's part of the reason prices are going up.

[@maxpower78-15]

Dude. I have my home theater. I have my dedicated stereo setup. Both are covered. But i do have a third system (stereo) that could use some lovin. Definitely considering these Emotiva bookshelves

[@bpalpha]

Great choices. I’m going to have to audition the Emotivas somehow.

[@spamcan9208]

I was so tempted to pick up the BS41 when they were on sale for $80 but I had nowhere to put them and buying like that can really add up fast. I'd rather put it towards a J2

[@hifiman4562]

I wish I could post a pic of my cup of coffee.

[@gr1347]

Thanks!

[@jamesonm2014]

hi, can you tell me what speakers with the amplifier built in would you would recommend that gives you the most bang for your buck? $300-400 range, thank you

[@DavidEVogel]

$400 gives you $200 for speakers and $200 for a power amplifier. Where is the pre-amplifier? Your budget is way to cheap.

[@djsnoopnzkaraitiana947]

Hi from new Zealand!I'm just wondering if you ever reviewed the elac B's 203.2?if so what were your thoughts.?

[@DCwaters0]

Do you check out dj amplifier s and speakers and if so what brands

[@rehn1kri]

Hey all! Another youtuber I subscribe to (Matt Koykendall) mentioned that the SS-CS5s are on sale for $98 at Amazon right now.

[@BillyBlastoff9]

Dang Randy… did you get a stylist? New walking regimen? You look healthy!

[@korndawg1978]

How would you say the TZero+ compares to the B2+?

[@d_page2049]

Has anyone ever compared the Imagine XB to the Alpha P5?

[@bugjuicer]

What's a good bang-for-buck active bookshelf speaker, for $2-300? Ideally available in NZ! Using it for music on the desk, and may be another (or more recommended pair) for a turntable

[@TerryPagel]

+bugjuicer I love my Presonus Eris speakers. I hear great things about the new Kali monitors. I'm hoping Randy will take a look at them in 2023. I'm ready to hear about other products... I've had some monoprice that were great. I also had some Mackies that i returned. They were too mushy and impossible to place instruments in the soundstage. I've also had Alesis monitors which were above average just thin on the bottom. Most cheap powered monitors crap out after a couple years. Two of mine went bad at the headphone input switch.

[@darwinbalares570]

Great video quality!

[@jeffpowell3163]

Just saw Sonys are $98 on Amazon ! Probably gonna pull the trigger

[@The_LaZy_HiKeR]

Merry Christmas Randy! I have grabbed so many cups of coffee this year it's ridiculous. What do you think of Lux Æterna? And should Metallica do a Christmas album? 110 degrees here in Oz for Christmas. No snow angels here. \m/ Someone should make a Rocktopus emoji. Cheers Travis

[@GoldenLion137]

No tower speakers, why? Some of us like and prefer full range towers. Don’t any exist in your price range? If not that is sad. Thanks

[@TriAmpHiFi]

😊 Cozy set.

[@mcjonner]

Emotiva b2+ vs Polk r200?

[@RedSinter]

Speaking of Geseli what's up with the Zoofa Integrated Amp?

[@D1N02]

You look good in 4k Randy

[@ramonbmovies]

You should literally send them a trophy.

[@cheapaudioman]

Ha. I’ll have my 5 year old make one up

[@tombillard5264]

Just saw the psb's for 499 on the company site

[@AromaFrank]

Hi. Can the PSB be placed close to wall, What’s your experience? How about when paired with a Sub?

[@maxpower78-15]

Great stuff C.A.M.!

[@joeyjojojunior4886]

The Sony SSCS5 $98 on Amazon right now.

[@TerryPagel]

Can you review new items in 2023? Possibly add some powered speakers. I would love to hear your thoughts on the Kali 6 something powered speakers. Also, it's hard to separate the ratings on this channel. To often, value skewed the results. You'll say something like, "i don't like these at $500, but i love them at $300." So, you don't like them? Possible keep a list based on value and one on performance without taking price into the equation.

[@chuckfrankenstein7396]

New shirt Randy, maybe an xl

[@RedSinter]

They PSV XV do get really good reviews from many individuals with spendy systems.

[@kingconk17]

Do you think the vista spark integrated amp would be efficient enough to power the wharfdale Denton 80th anniversary speakers?

[@ginom407]

Great Stuff!!!

[@moblitzz]

Not related to this video but the Wiim pro is on sale at Amazon as of this morning

[@mikelanier5617]

Thanks coop I need the coax digital output so I'm returning the mini for the pro. I use it on my patio system with a SMSL AD-18 connected to a Schiit Modi dac and it works and sounds as good as my Bluesound Node that I have on my main system. 👍