The Best Speaker Award - Css Audio Criton 1TD DIY speaker review !

[@Jayiyagi]

Go to surfshark.deals/nbtstudio - Code: nbtstudio (85% and 3 extra month) This speaker won the best speaker award. Best speaker award is a rare award given to products that show exceptional value and performance. It does not mean it is the best in world, we do not know which speaker is. It is merely an award fitting to our channel name " The Next Best Thing Studio. " Disclaimer/ Personal interest in my reviews - nbtsmedia.com/about-us/ Css Audio 1 TD Kit: www.css-audio.com/online-store/CSS-Criton-1TD-Kit-Pair-p109862382 Fully finished Css Audio Speakers: www.css-audio.com/online-store/Finished-Speakers-c29101533 Css Audio Interview: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fYHXppaMZbRnhrs Css Audio 1TD kit build: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qHLbnpKXhM9_nqM The guys that did the veneer: www.stewartspeakersystems.com/ Their contact page: www.stewartspeakersystems.com/contact

[@gnd144]

Solid, Cheers Jay.

[@barchetype6430]

Wonder how they compare to $400 Caintuck Betsies

[@randalllawkin]

When is the review for the sound artist integrated amp coming out? Been waiting for that.

[@Clark_Griswald]

You didn't post a link for the stands

[@c5gemo]

Any speakers could get clear sounds as head set?

[@FreeD00M]

WOW more DIY reviews pls. That is amazing.

[@robertyoung1777]

Hi you all, I built a pair of CSS Audio Criterion 1TD-X with superior high end parts and flat pack. It all went well. I mounted the crossovers on the back of the cabinets because they were a tight fit when placed in the cabinet. It took me about a week to build them working about two hours a day. I didn't do anything to the cabinets. You will need some bar clamps to hold the cabinets together while the glue sets up. I used six I think they sound good for small speakers. They have plenty of base extension. The base sometimes sounds disconnected from the rest of the midrange and high frequency sound. I put them on DynAudio 20 stands which work well. The speakers are power hungry with the superior crossovers. I found the MDF to be smelly. Overall they were a lot of fun to build and sound good. They can't compete with my JBL L100 three way speakers in terms of sound quality. It is probably best to compare them with other small speakers because that is what they are. Have fun if you choose to build a pair. Good customer service from CSS.

[@dilbyjones]

Man, your reviews are getting better & better !

[@terrycain1811]

I'm saving for it. I can't wait to get it a few weeks I believe it will sound beautiful

[@epi2045]

When you build your own speaker... it’s so satisfying. I have built several speakers, subs, and center channels for fun. Unfortunately I can’t make Magnepan’s... or maybe???

[@GrinziAndi]

I'd love to see you comparing the Css Audio 1TD with the gr research xls encore

[@Audfile]

Anything is better than GR Research

[@GrinziAndi]

@@Audfile Are they really that bad? I've only heard good so far

[@jungtarcph]

@@Audfile yeah, I have seen them been called out...

[@dawolyan13]

Checkout CheapAudioman. He built both and reviews both.

[@greenbeginner9221]

@@Audfile Can you explain? Did you have a problem building a pair or have a bad service experience with the company?

[@robertm8518]

I use these Monolith stands and they are an incredible bargain! I had a pair of Totem’s on them and then filled the posts with kitty litter and I couldn’t believe the improvements! I highly recommend them!

[@achimlenssen2371]

Only words, but not one second of sound from this fine created speakers.

[@jasonredd893]

Any thoughts on how these compare to the GR Research X-LS kit?

[@Old_Sailor85]

From the Cheapaudioman - The X-LS has more detail. The Criton is warmer and has better bass extension. The ELAC UBR62 is in between.

[@rlowes]

Hey Jay, just a thought. When you mention the S400 you own, I think it would be good to mention that they’re the S400 Signature Edition, which are way more expensive than the standard model. I’m not sure what kind of sonic differences there would be in this model vs the standard version, but just to setup comparisons fairly at specific price points I think it should be noted. I would LOVE to also have you compare a standard S400 to your Signature Edition - to my knowledge, no one has done a detailed review comparison to point out the differences sonically between the 2 versions. I think it would get a lot of interest. Cheers.

[@guillaumeSONY]

I'm Also interested in the comparison

[@fbombtehgr3at]

Thanks for the review Jay. Next, you should review the CSS bass add-on module that transforms the Criton 1TD into a full-range 3-way speaker.

[@mr.vokits8757]

I dig it when people review diy speakers. Thanks for shooting from the hip with your analysis as well.

[@mikejohnston7696]

Great review, thanks to watching this I went over to css and ordered their 2td kit with superior crossover. I'll build my own cabinet, I enjoy the woodworking, plus curved cabinets are my personal favorite. Keep up the great work, I might be getting a hegel to go with it, I wish they had more watts though.

[@bobb.9917]

GREAT all-round review…especially your discussion and comparison of the crossover option. Waaaaaaay better and more thorough than any other reviews!!! I watched 3 other reviews and did not even know that there was a port! (I was wondering?)….AND it’s an adjustable port!!! 😵

[@l.b.stringfellow2413]

It’s super exciting to see you and some of the other reviewers engaging and explaining what true HiFi is to the younger generation! You guys have made a huge impact. Great job !!

[@saviduris]

Jay, thanks for the passionate review. You have already make me buy the willsenton R8, i Will buy the denafrips Ares, and I Will probably buy this speakers!! That deserves my patreon for you

[@gearguy98]

Jay, well done. Thanks for another good review. I'll add another shout out to the DIY XL-S Encore from GR Research. I built a pair with the max upgrades. Yes, they are as good as others say. I believe they 89db sensitivity and 8 ohms.

[@paultezuma864]

Thank you very much, that's exactly what I have been looking for-EXCELLENT quality DIY kit

[@cavebeastdemon3631]

I think my SB Accoutics Bromo Kit would give these a run for their money at about the same price. I have a slightly upgraded Xover.

[@serkancaykara6740]

SB acoustic ara vs CSS ?

[@cleanyourears]

You come across as very sincere unlike some others. I’d love to give these a listen!

[@xoulsinz]

I'm wondering if you've heard X-LS Encore as I'm debating between the 2 kits, thanks!

[@RahzAlGhul]

Wonder how this stacks up against like the X-LS Encore

[@GrinziAndi]

I'd love to see that too

[@peterotremba8980]

Both I’d say are one of the absolute best speakers you can ever buy for the price but I am 110% confident that the 1td will sound a little better but it costs more.

[@rvango40]

Would like to see that comparision

[@mdd99]

Hi jay since you have listened to this and passive kef ls50. Can you give some feedback or your opinion of the difference I’m assuming you liked this one more

[@dm1787]

Finished building one last night. I could not get the poly finish where I wanted it to be. But will try again later. But the sound is brilliant!

[@willbrink]

I wonder how they would compare to the ATC 11s?

[@pandstar]

Finally some KZbin reviewers reviewing some DIY products. The ONLY drawback in DIY speakers, is resale value. But on the plus side, you are getting so much more fidelity for your money, that the need to upgrade is not needed as often. In the DIY speaker world, it is not unusual to get sound quality equal to spending 5-10X more on commercially available products.

[@JC-ig4xy]

Wondering if you heard the new Criton 1TD X Series and will you be reviewing it?

[@f1flick]

Nice to see these new CSS guys succeed. I'd love to hear these speakers. The old CSS really was a joke. And enabled by a bunch of deaf old men customers/supporters who’d ban you from DIYAUDIO for questioning them. Have some drivers from the old days of CSS and they bottom out at the mildest turn of the volume knob. Have tried a dozen enclosures for their FR-W125 and SDX-7 to try to get a good performance but I don't think they knew what they were doing in the first iteration of CSS. Sound good mind you but only at near field applications. Love the boxes and the veneer job.

[@francisdelacruz6439]

Just watched your video, nice. Interested in this speaker. How detailed is the sound compared to ls50? Thinking maybe the sound too smooth? Don't hv sharp front end or those that emphasize leading edges if the sound too smooth on top....

[@atoz6552]

Jay. I really like you. But tbh, I'm uncomfortable with that sort of statement: "this should be more expensive". A piece of audio equipment has the right to be a deal, even a steal! And it's your job to point them out as you usually do and that's why I'm still subscribed to your channel and left many other channels, including well known reviewwers... Otherwise, all we're doing is to tell the audio industry that it is OK to raise the prices that are already very high. I left this hobby for years for that specific reason. That's my experience, that's my opinion.

[@Jayiyagi]

I see your point and I will take it to heart but I suggest you don't dive too deep into the title of the video. It is merely to indicate the great value...

[@weeooh1]

@@carlosoliveira-rc2xt Yeah, I'm with Jay on this. If he feels a speaker performs above its price bracket, then that would get more of my attention. If he does not mention that, then I would assume its probably no better than other speakers in its range.

[@atoz6552]

@@carlosoliveira-rc2xt continue to overpay for your equipment guys.

[@Jayiyagi]

@@atoz6552 I am not saying you are wrong and I agree with you. Just don't dive too deep into the meaning and affect the title has... no company is going decide to jack up the price based on a little validation or title of a video...I have no intention of giving companies "validation" to overcharge. Quite the opposite actually. But it would be the company's mistake if they do overcharge... if it is overpriced. I would say so or not review it at all to save everyone some time (including my own time) HOWEVER I do think I get to say "it does punch over a price range, if it in fact does - at least imho" oh btw I know you've been commenting on my videos for some time and I like you as well ! I do enjoy the comments you make. Gives me new perspective to think about for sure

[@helteeb8878]

The only thing u got fooled was the expensive price!!!

[@dindin4164]

dindinmodern speakers are very good, the sound has a certain depth and atmosphere, hardware bass and treble control is also a real praise, the price is now there is a discount

[@faisal_sama9763]

Amazing reviews as always we need next gr researcher diy kits like x-statik

[@genaishivatov1737]

Such a small tweeter (from the rear too) cannot complement the midrange from the mid-woofer. As far as I understand, these speakers don't play the mid?

[@guidoconsoli1594]

Thank you for the review! Would you use them for hi-fi listening or studio monitoring for mixing? Also what amp requirements do you think are minimum to power them properly?

[@ruffman44]

I meant Xls Encore bookshelf speakers.

[@ruffman44]

What's up Jay you should build a Gr research Xls speaker kit which is alot less expensive and it's standard crossover kit has better parts and it's upgrade is also cheaper.

[@file1man]

Yes, I also ask what 2 kits you looked at and what made your choice

[@Sparta155]

The drivers in the CSS are a fair bit better.

[@Wright00000]

Jay, thanks for the review! Any chance for some sound clips?

[@jonch25]

I am upgrading my budget set up and I bought these speakers! Will my denon x2500h be able to run these? I am looking to eventually get a separate integrated amplifier. Can you recommend anything under $500 to pair with these speakers? Or how much would I need to spend to get an upgrade from my receiver?

[@giladkingsley]

How are they?

[@jonch25]

Gilad Kingsley Sorry didn't see this comment. They are freaking amazing! Best speakers I've heard.

[@JohnB-ws4ge]

@@jonch25 did you get the base parts or the upgraded parts?

[@jonch25]

@@JohnB-ws4ge I got the flat pack and upgraded crossover.

[@ranelime]

Great video 👍. Will definitely consider this or its big brother. How would you describe its tone characteristics? Thanks again

[@robh9079]

Is there not a gap in the market for brick and mortar stores to sell, and more importantly demo, diy projects? Given the right personnel, crossover building and veneering could be offered (or subbed out). Face to face advice for completing your project would be worth a small premium, increasing margins. Storage is less of an issue for the company, associations could be built with local craftsmen - all of this builds community, which in turn can be profitable. There is nowhere to my knowledge where you can compare and buy DIY vs Commercial, yet that is a question in quite a few minds. N.B. kit makers Wimlslow Audio UK have demo facilities.

[@themastroiannis]

passionate review! thanks...

[@iljah.1253]

Hi Jay, great review! I would love to order one and pair it up with an Iotavx sa3. Will the Iota have enough power for this speaker?

[@fugazi84]

When you buy this from USA, did you have to pay for duties when they arrived in Canada?

[@georgevprochazka5316]

Great ! But I was looking for the inexpensive stands link. Not there, can you give me a link ? Thanx!

[@felipeneri3364]

Amazing work, what do you recommend to buy: CSS Criton 1TD, 2TD or Tekton Lore?

[@orwhat24]

Very useful review. Thank you.

[@JG-gg9wk]

That's a big bookshelf speaker. Would be nice to hear them, to bad you have to purchase and assemble before you can.

[@dilbyjones]

This is a thing I’ve really been paying attention to lately... these bookshelves are getting HUGE!

[@hxhky]

Hey Jay. How would you compare the 1TD to Dynaudio Special 40? My guess is the 1TD is better overall? What about Harbeth p3esr, if you dont have recent direct comparison, from what you read, would you say the 1TD will come close? Thanks. PS After some research and communication with CSS, I'm almost set on getting a pair of these because of this review! Really excited!

[@lanx0003]

Have you ever measured them before giving out your appraisal? It seems very costly considering the amount of time some of DIYers put in. You also need to purchase bar clamps to build it to hold the box tight and free of resonance. The look is so primitive that you might as well save the money and go buy Elac dbr62 for example.

[@fugazi84]

Hi, If you're familiar with the Totem Acoustic sound, how do you compare CSS sound vs Totem Sound (non fatiging, low end, etc.) Thank you

[@Zurvv]

is that a elac 407 speaker in the back ground? Are you going to do a review of that? i've been looking at the speaker myself and a review would be very helpful. :)

[@uhugvjkbkjh]

I prefer this classic look to SF tbh. The tweeter in that kit is extremely good

[@buriburizaem0n]

thinking to upgrade to wharfedale 12.3 or this... cant decide.. any thoughts??

[@dindipanesar]

Hey Jay, many thanks for the review. Would these pair well with the Billie Amp by Heaven11? In that price range do you have a better amp in mind to pair these with? Thanks!

[@ThaRealest82]

Jay - We see that Elac Vela FS 407 in the background playing peek-a-boo. Still waiting to hear your review and thoughts on those.

[@nathandaniels4823]

Great review! How are the dynamics on these? How are the dynamics compared to the Tekton Lore Reference?

[@munlive5130]

Can you tell me how this speaker is in comparison to SoundArtist LS3/5A?

[@babupranav]

Worth it to upgrade to the 2TD? How would you compare this to the Tekton Lore speakers you just reviewed? The prices seem very comparable.

[@Jayiyagi]

can't tell ya cuz I haven't heard the 2TD. As for the Tektons, I believe the tektons are a bit more lively. Both are refined in the highs but the superior crossover really takes the css audio to the next level in refinement and less grain. Soundstage wise, very comparable but the css audio does take a slight lead on this one. The tektons do have a tad bit faster mid bass. It is a hard comparison and I do not see anyone going wrong with either. The beauty of Css audio is for those that likes to tinker a bit since they are coming up with upgrade paths down the line that can be integrated to their existing kit users.

[@hxhky]

@@Jayiyagi Are you saying CSS will release component upgrades to existing 1TD speakers? that's even more tempting.

[@Jayiyagi]

@@hxhky yes.

[@kerryarmes2786]

hxhky we are coming out this year with upgrade options for a new tweeter and an add on to convert our existing kits to 3-way

[@Sparta155]

@@kerryarmes2786 What tweeter will you be using? Thanks.

[@PreBlazed89]

Would this speaker be a good match with a tube amp? I currently have a line magnetic lm-211ia

[@redstarwraith]

I spy with my little eye a piece of Jungson gear. May we count on a review of it to be forthcoming???

[@Jayiyagi]

Yes haha

[@redstarwraith]

@@Jayiyagi Sweeeeeeeeeeeet!

[@dilbyjones]

Solid review.

[@xoulsinz]

Is it ok to leave these speakers on the floor instead of putting them on speaker stands?

[@JohnB-ws4ge]

would love to know if you thought the 2td is worth the cost increase

[@ralex3697]

Those are beautiful

[@erickallage]

was looking at the s300 or s400. i will consider this, thanks.

[@eeyorebill04]

They need a front-ported floorstanding version for people like me!

[@202One]

Front-ported floorstanding Transmission Line would be nice!! 👍

[@franciscoortiz6980]

would love to see you rate the HiVi 3.1 speaker kit that is on amazon for 300 USD. It is supposed to be identical to swans 3 way.

[@timball4892]

Jay, thank you so much for the work you do. I totally enjoy your reviews as they never appear as biased. I have a question that actually CSS suggested I ask you. I am going to upgrade my speakers (Wharfedale Linton Heritage) and am considering both the CSS 2TD as well as a couple of Klipsch choices. They are the Forte III and RF7 mk III. Kerry said you may have some experience with the Klipsch and you might be able to shed light on their differences and how they relate to the CSS you built. I am a woodworker and am capable of doing the veneering. I would be buying the CSS with flatpack and upgraded crossovers. Any insight you can provide will be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Tim

[@mcjonner]

Can anyone compare these to the diysg helix? Another highly regarded diy brand with similar size and specs for less money.

[@pchoi44]

Great review, but I couldn't help but stare at those Elac Velas in the back the whole damn video lol. Can't wait for that review!

[@charleskatz2606]

Jay so are you going to do the 2TD?Be nice to get the comparison.

[@kerryarmes2786]

Hi Charles, we try to voice all our speakers very similarly. The 2TD will have a very slight difference in presentation due to the symmetrical lobing pattern from the MTM layout versus the asymmetrical in a standard TM format. I don't think the difference is significant and most people might not even notice it but I overall prefer the 2TD. It has lower distortion and greater output capabilities due to the extra woofer so if you really like to crank it from time to time (I do!) they really start to separate themselves at higher volume.

[@redleather100]

My wife prefers 9” over the 6” 😉 wish they did these in the UK. Great review.

[@Gez492]

I'm in the UK and happy to provide access to a 10"🤭

[@Sparta155]

Does she like front ported or rear ported?

[@mag290]

Tough break Nathan, sorry you have to go through that.

[@Gez492]

Are these Aircore inductors, if not I seriously question whether the crossover is higher end

[@bbfoto7248]

@Gerald Holley Maybe you should watch Jay's previous video where he builds these DIY speakers and crossovers and shows the difference between the standard and upgraded crossovers. ;-) You could also not be lazy and instead just go to the CSS website and look for yourself before commenting. ;-) Cheers

[@clifftsl]

How does it compare to the Gershman Studio 2?

[@nperry77]

What amp are you powering these with?

[@nuttyl283]

Chinese made 7" driver? paper fiberglass. is it good?

[@juliangst]

Do they ship the kits to Europe? If that speaker is really that good it'll definitely be my next pair of speakers

[@Jayiyagi]

I think they do. Email em !

[@juliangst]

@@Jayiyagi thanks, I'll do that

[@osiearl1181]

Nice video with subscribers! Try Audes speakers from Estonia. Heco speakers are nice and cheaper Taga Harmony and theyr tube amplifiers. ✌️👍🍸

[@dudN8R]

What about their X version that is an upgrade over this?

[@mioaratrandafir5100]

What about a dac crossover? Isn t superior? Than fizical crossover

[@Audiojunkabus]

CSS Criton 1TD Kit ?

[@alanchan920]

noted the cables you are using. gosh dont these alpha cables cost as much as the speaker kit. must be really good.

[@Jayiyagi]

Some are less than 100.

[@joelnorris4064]

How does this compare to the Gershman Acoustic Studio II?

[@Jayiyagi]

Gershman studio 2 has deeper bass. a bit closed off highs in comparison. More laid back - warm type of presentation.

[@hxhky]

Hey Jay. How good are these in nearfield listening? I was ready to buy the Ascend Sierra 2-EX (going to put in the order today or tomorrow) and suddenly saw this. My use for the speaker will be on desktop in my computer setup and listening from 3 ft away. Please advise if this speaker performs its full potential (or 80% 90% of its full potential?) in a nearfield setup? I really value your review and am re-considering my purcahse option because of your recommendation of the Criton 1TD. Thanks and great review as always! PS: Or is the P215 a better option for me?

[@Jayiyagi]

I think you should reach out to css audio and tell them you are using it for nearfield. I remember them telling me that they can tweak their speakers to be better suited for nearfield... Worth a try to reach out and ask, doesn't hurt.

[@hxhky]

@@Jayiyagi Cool. Thanks Jay. I will do that.

[@olivrrrr]

Loving my Sierra 2EX in desktop nearfield! I've tried many studio monitors and other passive speakers, but the Sierra 2EX is the best I've heard. Also, the Raal ribbons is something else and it's probably my favorite tweeters. I love it so much I went ahead and put an order on the Phil BMR.

[@bbfoto7248]

@@hxhky The Criton 1TD are huge "bookshelf" speakers. They would take up A LOT of your real estate on your desktop. If you have a large display monitor or two, it would be a challenge to fit these on your desktop. The 1TD are also rear-ported, so ideally you would not want to place them close to the wall (if your desk is up against a wall).. They need some "breathing room" behind them to perform their best. I use the front-ported Neumann KH120A 5.25" midwoofer acrive studio monitors at my medium size mixing/computer desk with a separate 15" DIY Infinity Beta subwoofer on the floor and am incredibly happy. I wouldn't want to use desktop monitors that were much larger than the KH120A.

[@hxhky]

@@bbfoto7248 Thanks, I appreciate that info. Yes, I looked at the demensions of the 1TD and they're indeed very large. They're even wider and deeper than my current ELAC B6.2, which is already too big on my desk. I was actually going to order their 1TDX which has the new tweeter. But it will take a few more weeks for the new unit to be available to order. Another option I almost went with was the Ascend Sierra 2-EX, which is slightly shorter than my ELAC. But these are quite a bit more expensive. And from the reivews, the 1TD might sound better.

[@IKnewMickey]

Wait! You're saying you "experienced tremendous bass in the low frequency region"? Wow these speakers must be good! : D

[@steverino5054]

Anyone know someone who sells just the finished cabinets? I can build the crossover and install everything but don't have wood tools or finishing ability. Don't want to spend a lot just to end up with crappy looking speakers.

[@4991544]

Is this a sales pitch? Are you receiving anything to produce this content? If so, you should disclose this so viewers can take this into consideration.

[@Jayiyagi]

check about us page on our youtube

[@4991544]

Thanks for pointing this out. It's critical to know. It might be good to state this in some vids. This one especially, struck me as totally sales oriented. The about info puts it in a very different context. Appreciate it.

[@Jayiyagi]

@@4991544 I think if I seem too passionate about something... some people see it as a sales pitch....

[@4991544]

It's only natural, and consumers can't be gullible and simply believe everything they see. There are so many opportunities to get burned out there, with all the voices raving about one thing or another. But then you acknowledge this with your mention of crappy speaker kits that don't live up to what's advertised. It's buyer beware and up to the consumer to ask questions. Thanks.

[@helteeb8878]

dats 5k Canadian dollars!!..thoss speakers are over priced..dis da best speaker..am gonna price it at 5k....I rather buy a kit from gr research!!!

[@serkancaykara6740]

Hı 🙋🏻‍♂️ SB acoustic ara kit vs CSS thanks 🙂

[@fugazi84]

Exactly what I need

[@BunnyslippersEUC]

I only trust myself building power cables. Cut...twist...screw...done. Speakers 🔊🧰🛠️😣

[@spinachhandsjklolsmh9053]

What's your KD in war zone?

[@Jayiyagi]

Oh no...

[@t.j.bennett6454]

How is the detail on these? This seems like a speaker with a nice character or "musical" but I need detail to. How much detail compared to the s400 and the sonus faber you mentioned

[@lucioferro9870]

Ho have you tested Spendor d7.2 ! Please Try!!!

[@sweethands4328]

Who makes the driver?

[@autoaudio2]

CSS Audio uses their own drivers, but the woofer does seem to share some similarities to Wavecore.

[@jeffodum0]

How many Best Speaker Awards for 2020 do you plan to award? Gershman fall off the top?

[@roguemodel]

Good review, but you might be too young to have nostalgia!

[@Smood47]

10:05 It is pronounced 'Vale' not 'Veel'.

[@drs-Rigo-Reus]

No its not, veil.

[@Smood47]

@@drs-Rigo-Reus LOL... go on howjsay right now.

[@ralex3697]

Thought I needed a haircut

[@billd9667]

Nice veneer job. How much (US) did it set you back?

[@Jayiyagi]

Approx $400 cad. Whatever that coverts to US.

[@billd9667]

About $300. Very reasonable. Book matching would likely be another $100 or so.

[@Jayiyagi]

@@billd9667 yeap. I mean if you are able to... You can do it yourself but they charge a reasonable amount for the job in my opinon

[@billd9667]

I'd rather have an "expert" do it lol. That is some quality work. I'm good at many things, but cabinetmaking is not one of them. Then again, KZbin!

[@DianeFoxxx]

make more sound tests