A different kind of Tweeter. Acoustic Energy 509 speaker review

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Need a favor guys. For those of you who have not seen the Lumin video, kzbin.info/www/bejne/r6K1Z5muhdihrpo. I took it down and re-upload it and it seems many of you have not seen it. Even If you had, can you still run it for a minute so it helps promote it?

[@scottyo64]

Done

[@prathibha1230]

doing

[@oleksiifilippov68]

Done)

[@HPMIKE55]

Done! ;-)

[@tee-jaythestereo-bargainph2120]

Sure will ! 😃

[@chrisnash3782]

I haven’t heard the AE509s, but at the Geshelli Labs listening room, Geno and Sherri played their own amps and Dayzee DAC connected to a pair of the AE520s. The mid range and low end bass was seriously jaw dropping. Overall sonic clarity was stunning without being fatiguing. It sounded like there was a 15in sub in that room, but it was coming purely from the speakers, that use carbon designed woofers/tweeters. If your budget allows it, don’t hesitate to shell out 5k for this breathtaking pair of Acoustic Energy’s flagship AE520 tower speakers!

[@andrewgpayne]

Great review Thomas, you hit the nail on the head as far as I'm concerned. I've had a pair of Monitor Audio Silver 200s for almost a year now. They are deeply impressive in the first 30 seconds but I find them fatiguing after about 30 minutes and harsh sounding on certain recordings. I've now demoed a pair of AE509s at home for the last 5 days and after a lot of time listening to them, they are simply amazing. The harsh, sibilant treble has gone, the detail remains though and more importantly I feel I want to listen more and more instead of calling it a day. The bass is excellent, not louder than the Silver 200s but definitely deeper and less 'boxy' sounding. The midrange is very natural, again in comparison to the Silvers, it feels more integrated with the treble and bass and seamless across the frequencies. In short, I'm going to order a pair in Black and I'm very happy to have found what I'm after. Your review encapsulated my thoughts almost exactly which is great.

[@eazyryder1591]

I store demoed a pair of Focal Aria for half an hour or so. I was really impressed, I ordered a pair for home delivery. I had later come across your video review on the Aria 926s and i was in total disagreement with you. After a week with the Arias at home in my system, it was a different story. I found them an obnoxious sounding, unorganised and unrefined speaker with terrible sibilance on certain vocals and a weak bottom end. Luckily the store excepted a return for full refund. I had realised your review on the Aria 926s was spot on. I had also store demoed a pair on the AE509s and was initially unimpressed. Luckily I gave then a second extended chance at home and WOW. I don't really need to explain, your video says it perfectly. And now I am a subscriber to your channel and also a happy owner of a beautifully finished gloss black pair of Acoustic Energy AE509s : ), keep up the good work.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Wow, thanks for sharing your experience, really appreciate it.

[@JasonDominus]

I've heard these and absolutely loved them. I agree with your review. Exceptionally clean sound with good tone. Good extension low and high and a wide soundstage. I thought the imaging was good as well. Overall they hit above their asking price in terms of performance. Definitely give them a listen if you get a chance.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Totally agree! I think everyone should give it a listen.

[@123oner]

Awesome review, cheers Thomas! The bookshelf version of these have been on my radar

[@oluhamilton2121]

You won’t be disappointed

[@josephchamberlain3681]

Always appreciate your voice in the review field. You have what I guess I would call an unrolled-off opinion, just warm of neutral. Not too analytical and not too demanding of the front end product to get to the truth ;)

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Haha, unrolled off opinion, love it.

[@brendanlawton7518]

Nice footage you really accentuated the speakers very nicely. They look beautiful. Keep up the great photography.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks, will do!

[@rslowfan]

Thomas, love how open minded you are about sound and speakers. It's very easy to develop a fixed mindset in this obsession/hobby. In the case of Harbeth... it's a rip or crazy time at HUG.

[@johnsoriano3812]

Getting better every video. Very nice.

[@IKnewMickey]

We are easily impressed in the first 30 seconds. Very true! I bought some mission 763i speakers that didn't blow me away. Almost didn't buy them because they didn't WOW me. Did by them tho. Super glad I have them. Great little speakers!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Nice , great you did.

[@erikalexander6602]

I love Thomas’ detailed descriptions ! Nice review

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@broadhurst5000]

I fell in love with these speakers at a hifi show end of last year. Ended up trialling them against a pair of buchardt s400s. It was tough as they were q got a different. Ended up going with the Buchardt but it wasn't easy. At the show was the most impressive speaker I listened to.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Either one is great, it is a question of taste. I personally prefer these over the S400 but these are more expensive.

[@broadhurst5000]

@Otie Jason probably the last word I'd use to describe them. Definitely more present in the mids/mid bass. The AE's I did find a tad clinical due to the tweeter employed but I didn't mind it, def more detail in the top end.

[@sandeepkang5666]

Bought a pair of these a month or so ago, couldn't agree more with your review. Using them with a NAD av receiver and a Nord power amp. Such a clean, fast sound and really easy to listen to. My room isn't ideal, not well treated and these are brilliant. Makes we wonder how good they would be with better electronics to power them and in a treated room. Wish they would release a centre speaker to match!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks for sharing and glad you are enjoying yours. They do quite different with different amp.

[@svalbard01]

Great review as always. Thanks Thomas!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it.

[@dominicvalois]

Very interesting speaker, especially the tweeter! Nice review Thomas!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@Chapterrifik]

Awesome video and advice. Take care Mr. Thomas

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks and hope to drop by once this pandemic is over.

[@Chapterrifik]

@@ThomasAndStereo you are most welcome Thomas, and my door will be open for you when you wish to come by. 😊

[@neilgelowitz4737]

Nice review! We've been carrying these for a while now at Everest Audio in Regina, SK, Canada. Both the AE509 and the bookshelf AE500 are just outstanding for the money. We're excited to get our pair of the AE520 when they arrive in Canada soon.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks for the info!

[@stevefick3919]

I really like my Monitor Audio Silver 300's, but I would really like to audition these, for sure. For bass, I like "Thanks to you" by Boz Scaggs. Some real deep bass notes in it. Always looking at upgrades to my system. I'll have to give these a listen.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I have owned Monitor Audio GX300 , GX200 and RS8 before and for me they have this 'look at me ' kind of sound that is similar to Focal and B&W. If you love your MA300, the logical upgrade path is focal and B&W. Now if you want to try something different, then these AE509 are very different.

[@stevefick3919]

@@ThomasAndStereo Funny, I had a pair of B & W DM330's before I bought the Monitor Audio's! I know Focal's have a really nice sound as well. At least to my ears. I'm always looking for that "perfect sound".

[@calaf_725]

The way you describe the tweeter sound is how i felt when i replaced my i/c with a carbon fiber i/c. I thought it was rolled off but after listening more i realized all detail is there and the sound is more natural without the copper/silver coloring.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, I think everyone should at least experience it once. Problem is it takes a bit of time to appreciate it and hard at an audioshow.

[@scottyo64]

@@ThomasAndStereo Sounds like one of those bucket list items. I should buy a pair and try them for a while. Love my Maggies! lol.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@scottyo64 Man, maggy with the Cayin + NOS tubes = very good.

[@martinda7446]

@@scottyo64 Which Maggies? The Maggie ribbon IS the finest tweeter ever made (apart from the equal Quad 57).

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@martinda7446 LRS

[@nwestmoreland1]

Thomas, the price on these just went up to $3,700 USD due to COVID-related issues. All of the professional reviews I have read talk about how these punch above their weight and wanted to see if you felt the same way after this roughly $500 increase. I don't fault them at all for the increase as everything is more expensive right now and appreciate your advice.

[@marcfavell]

Do they have a pair I can get right now for 2400 Canadian 😂 but decided to get LS60 meta instead and downsize the whole system I'm going to get a pair of Rel"s just not sure what pair yet

[@anthonyhopkin]

Nice review Thomas. On the sound clips : The AR VS110 had me bobbing my head along with the music. Not so the first. Just my 2c ;¬D Greetings to one and all

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Ah class D vs tubes. A question of taste.

[@ronaldmcdonald2456]

"DIFFERENT" can be had by the ton. But the fact that you mentioned open baffle towards the end of the video is proof you already know that. True, getting your hands on "DIFFERENT" isn't always easy (especially since smallish companies are most often involved), BUT, many things in life simply take courage and perseverance. And I know you're up to it. :)

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, open baffle is on my list and one day I will get one into my room.

[@crimsonghost6454]

Those are nice looking and I love the carbon

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Me too!

[@RealHIFIHelp]

Carbon fiber is the future. It is coming to all parts of HIFI like CAPS, Batteries, cables, and also driver units. It has a crazy amount of potential.

[@pliedtka]

Carbon fiber is been used by loudspeakers manufacturers for a few decades. The problem is that all cone materials resonate in way or another, and designers play around with stiffness/damping and other characteristics until they're happy, but different cone/dome material has always it's tone to some degree. Alu tweeters have certain sound, so Titanium domes, until we change for Berilium, and again it depends on manufacturer.

[@vildebill2000]

I wish you would do a review of the AE 520 . I am thinking about change my heco Celan Revolution 9 for those since my room is a bit small

[@joeycastillo1496]

I like you videos, keep it up

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Glad you like them!

[@kidsfriends8269]

I got the AE1 actives cause I have small children and wanted something that had less thinghs that could be messed with. I was surprised to find them on a whole different level to my office amp/passive speaker setup. This made me reconsider the whole approach, I dont think I'm returning from actives.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yes, when you have small kids and want a cleaner setup, getting active speakers is a good solution.

[@davidmartin8187]

Thomas love all your reviews. I bought the ae109's and at $699 a pair they are fantastic. If I had the money I'm sure I'd love these. I spent the money on Mastersound box and believe it or not the ae 109's really sound nice with it. Again thanks for another great review.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks for sharing

[@markuspajonk7762]

The 109s are absolutely high value for the money at all. Have fun & enjoy!

[@johnlong9862]

Very smart way of unpacking the speakers by lifting the boxes away from the speakers. That how I've always do it.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

hehe...I have become an expert at unpacking 😁

[@frankygoossens955]

Hello Thomas, Hope you will review the AE520 aswell , i would love to pare these with the Hegel H590.

[@rotaks1]

Great review. Thomas, would you share a list you bass test tracks please?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I put it in one of the comments below.

[@PARajapakse]

Hi Thomas. Thanks for a great review. I enjoy your videos. I had an original AE 109 from 2003 and have been on the search recently for an upgrade. An encounter with some of the brands you mention left me a bit cold this week. Too much zing in the treble! So maybe it's now time to revist the tried and trusted brand. Plus it's British and I'm from the UK. Really helpful that you review stuff which are 'outliers' as well as the usual suspects. I'm afraid that I have been reminded that you really have to listen before buying, especially speakers! Obvious I know but the temptation is there right now. Thanks again. :-)

[@cybergod77]

I'm certainly keen to explore magnepan and OB speakers...look forward to your reviews for these speakers

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, I need to get a pair of OB one day.

[@cybergod77]

@@ThomasAndStereo check out pure audio

[@marksolstafir]

9:45 - very good advice!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, even with all my experience, I still have this problem!

[@pliedtka]

Second that

[@pliedtka]

I like rolled off tweeters, without the metalic zing. But even metal domes can sound civilized, depends on crossover choice and it's design. For sure the little waveguide helps here. The little midbass boost is there because they're 5inchers and they need a bit of boost to sound natural. C'mon they can't push a lot of air without compression and distortions. After many years I go for laid back easy going sound without the sizzle and boominess that makes crappy recordings like POP, Techno listenable and avoids fatigue. Boring maybe, but most of the music is in midrange. Yeah, I'm getting old.

[@andrewcrossley2448]

Excellent analysis. I am going to demo the smaller AE500 against the 509s next week. For me the room positioning is a challenge as the right hand needs to be about 18 inch from the side wall. Hence I may need to use smaller speakers and tune to my RELs as a stereo pair. I’m concerned the 509s may be too bassy. I’ll be able to assess as the dealer uses a similar size room and we should be able to simulate the set up. So a follow up. I had a 2 hr deep listen comparing the two AE models using a Linn LP12, Marantz SA12SE and the 40n. Tried with and without a large REL in a room of 15ft by 20ft. The 500s were superb and easily up to the £5 to £6k front end. Without the REL the soundstage and depth was brilliant on classical. We were then impressed by the REL doing its magic work to somehow improve the stereo image even more (no idea how). In comparison, we found the 509s to be a bit more recessed on imaging. Clearly, they didn’t need the REL at all. In conclusion I bought the 500s and the superb SolidSteel SS6W stands. The stands make a significant difference and lock the stage like nothing else. They are very expensive but then they’ll last a lifetime. We didn’t waste time trying streaming as the LP12 and Marantz CD deck are in a different league. All thanks and credit to Audio T in Bristol, U.K. who set up the demo for me and are even coming to my home to set it all up and help tune the system with my little REL T Zeros as I also love organ music and some classic rock. I’ll dig out my Pink Floyd LPs then.

[@willmac5642]

If you get a chance to try Lu Kang stuff, looks old school but elegant w nice drivers

[@pegun]

Hi Thomas, looking forward to your LRS review.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yes I will review it but it will be a while because I own them and I am working on the stuff I got from manufacturers first.

[@hubert-williams3379]

Hey Thomas , What's your take on Focal sopra No 1.. ,,yes I realize this review is on the Acoustic Energy 509 but I'm looking at the focal very seriously, or have you done any reviews on the sopra No 1?

[@linmi9472]

another beautiful mid priced speakers, very transparent sound, the first competitor pops up in my head is ELAC FS409, same price, same quick base.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I had the FS247, the top end is really different. Yes, it has really quick bass that Elac.

[@linmi9472]

not a fan of AJ design speakers, the fs409 is germany made speaker, should be different tone from 247, hope one day has chance listen to these carbon high.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@linmi9472 Actually it was the FS 249 I had and it was not by AJ. www.tonepublications.com/review/elacs-fs249-black-edition-loudspeakers/

[@linmi9472]

wow, 249 are $8k speaker，must be much better than 409. now days, too many great speakers at good price. Just bought 3 brand new polk 703 under 1000 and can not believe how much sound I got for that price. Almost unreal.😊

[@josephchamberlain3681]

@@linmi9472 what did you get?

[@fernandozegarraaudio8144]

Hello Thomas, I've been following your channel for more than a year, quite interesting, I really wanted to write to you before, I don't know why I haven't. Just like you do, I like to investigate and test things. The thing that has worked best for me is the acoustic conditioning. You have already mentioned it before you have already managed to experience what it is like to be in a room that is well conditioned and not just put egg cartons or sponges everywhere. Having said this, my recommendation is that the space between the speakers should not have anything, preferably absorption, 10 cm of Rookwool or fiberglass, you could send it to do so that it covers your HDTV like a picture like this when listen properly you could put it on and when you want to watch TV you take it off. Believe me the image that the speakers creates with just that is fantastic, although you already know the design of the speakers has a lot to do with how they interact with the room, there are no better things to improve the room and your reviews will be more accurate when having a more controlled room. Greetings and luck.

[@teknikalvette]

Hivi swan 3.1 diy is my recommendation. Sounds amazing. You just have to build it. Very satisfying

[@tee-jaythestereo-bargainph2120]

I see you added the bass on the Yammy lol dang ! I try to keep mine on direct mode with Lsim 703 man you turn bass up any on 703 it'll run me out of my room 😃 Nice speaker carbon tweeter I love a different sound ! ! Thanks Thomas my ole job called me back so stacking up for a bit 😃

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Nice, save up to buy more audio gear!

[@tee-jaythestereo-bargainph2120]

@@ThomasAndStereo Thats the plan 😃 won't take long to save up , I'm back to 70 plus hours a week ehaaa all good though !

[@b97209]

Do you see a general improvement year after year in the speaker models? Would the average of the audiophile grade speakers in 2020 outperform the average in 2010? Do amps have a similar progression or lack of progression?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I think speakers in the last 3 years have improved a lot especially budget speakers. Amps, kind of, recently there are a lot of great budget amp that I have tried. They sound different than vintage gear so I can't really compare them.

[@waheezaramjaun6131]

You consider buying so many things,!thanks for this nice concise review? View!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yes I do but only stuff that impresses me. There are a lot of stuff I can't wait to get out of my house.

[@janpedersen8376]

Very interested in the AE520 but i don’t think they are available in the US yet?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

They told me soon. Hopefully one day I get to try it. As I mentioned in the video, I wish it had just a bit more bass punch and that AE520 speaker will be perfect for me.

[@markuspajonk7762]

They are sold out after Launching them in Asia & Australia. So please be patient for a "moment". Within the next 6 weeks they should be als land in the USA. So far as I know

[@HPMIKE55]

Great job & are you going to get there active speaker? when you have time look into the SuperSub X - GoldenEar's Subwoofer.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I don't think so, ideally I would love to try the AE520.

[@HPMIKE55]

@@ThomasAndStereo I'm still looking for a tower active speaker when you find one let me know. ;-)

[@dougg1075]

Actives are good but take the too much of the fun out of the hobby:)

[@dougg1075]

V curve will make you SMILE

[@ThomasAndStereo]

More MSG the better.

[@elthamlad468]

I've read many reviews, which all tend to say a similar thing regards this speaker. All have one thing in common, they all highly regard this speaker. One particular Dutch KZbinr who does great live recording comparison reviews went as far as saying they felt this speaker could hold up against the 8 pairs of Euro 4000 speakers it tested. That is a very high priase as the speakers they tested were very good indeed. I really want to hear these, I'd particularly love to know how they sound with a Valve amp, as i have just purchased a PrimaLuna Dialogue Premium?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I no longer have them. I don't remember if I did try it with tubes, sorry.

[@datdudeinred]

Awesome review... You mentioned open baffle... & that reminded me of pure audio project... Have you heard about them? (no reviews on youtube except 1) Those things are insane 4x15" woofers(but not for bass) & again in same range as your earthquakes or elysian 4 or triton reference

[@ThomasAndStereo]

No, I don't know much about Open baffle speakers. Would be nice if Pure audio reach out to me 😁😁

[@dannyng5427]

@@ThomasAndStereo Or Spatial Audio, I am interested to see how open baffle speakers compare with planar speakers.

[@oluhamilton2121]

I can't say ENOUGH about the 500 series

[@SuperMcgenius]

You are correct about the red flags.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Experience.

[@markuspajonk7762]

Thanks! Yeah its a great floorstand speaker.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

It sure is!

[@sam66hazmal]

Great video; I have a room size 14ft x13ft x12ft high, would the AE509 work in this room size ? Many thanks

[@Rickzolla]

Thomas has never heard a speaker he didn't love. LOL Just kidding bro, keep up the good work.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Haha...those don't make it to a video..

[@hushpuppykl]

Thomas & Stereo ... it’s a sensitive issue eh? 😬

[@ThomasAndStereo]

No, I make it a point not to make any negative review and here are my reasons. kzbin.info/www/bejne/aZexZ3-XfZ16iKc

[@hushpuppykl]

Thomas & Stereo ... I understand. Just teasing you la. 😂

[@byronb.]

"My preference for tweeters? Ribbons! Yep. Ribbon tweeters. Ribbon mid-ranges." - Paul McGowan, CEO PS Audio.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Hehe..maybe he has yet to hear carbon fiber tweeters.

[@markuspajonk7762]

I like ribbon very well. But i am impressed what a complete Carbon driver/tweeter design does.

[@pliedtka]

Mr McGowan also said that classD amps are Digital, which of course they are not. Great salesman he is. I rather choose my own poison based on my own experiences.

[@byronb.]

@@pliedtka I don't believe that is a correct statement. I've never heard him say such a thing and I've watched almost all his daily videos. Sorry.

[@D.E.E.P.Y.]

at 3:16 hope that "ouch" wasn't an injury from the glorious spikes.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I don't hear an 'ouch'???

[@D.E.E.P.Y.]

Sounds more like "aich" at 3:17

[@maxb.simonsen2459]

I heard it sitting in a train, and thought it was someone around me, until i read your comment

[@sreekuze.]

Im from India, I like your videos

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thank you.

[@kristofl1096]

Nice video and good analyze. Do you think that the amp Hegel H190 can be a good match?

[@carlosoliveira-rc2xt]

Audio research amp was less bright with perhaps even more detail and better timing.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yes, the tubes I used on them are slightly rolled off.

[@AusGanesh]

Hi Thomas, When will you be reviewing your wharfedale elysian 4, speakers? I know this question is not related to this topic, sorry. I am looking for my last pair of speakers and I saw wharfedale elysian 4 on the Cayin amp review and I am quite keen on purchasing them. Are they made in China? I was after Wilson Audio Sasha, till I saw wharfedale elysian 4 on your review. Thank You.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I would say at least a month or 2. I still have not had the chance to listen to it. Yes, they are made in China and I would guess, if they were not, it would be 50% more. The finishing is amazing and I would not be surprised if someone told me it is $20k instead of $10k.

[@steverino5054]

Thomas, I noticed at the end you paired the speakers with the AR preamp and classe amp, did you try it with the Yamaha? Curious if there is "good enough" synergy with the Yamaha and can save me money over separates. Thanks.

[@borlach321]

How many companies use carbon fiber tweeters? I see usually soft dome, hard dome, or ribbon. These look really interesting.

[@markuspajonk7762]

I heard only that for example Sony was using it in prototype speaker. So its very unique. The advante is using Carbon for High, Mid and Bass.

[@Scottlp2]

If you want different sounding speakers seek ones aside from usual sealed or ported designs: dipole/planar, open baffle, omnidirectional and horns.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yup, working on that.

[@Scottlp2]

Thomas & Stereo let us know if you get to hear the $25k space pods ;-) There are a number of open baffles worth checking out eg Tri art audio gets great reviews as well as spatial audio.

[@myronhelton4441]

Acoustis energy had 20 years ago 5 tiny 5 channel first order crossover speakers cheap. The name may have been called Acoustic Energy 5. There were rated the top surround sound.

[@dengdeng80]

Hi Thomas...may I know how does this speaker compared to Gershman Avant Garde that you’ve reviewed not so long ago? I know maybe gershman can go lower in the subbass region..but how does it compared on terms of bass quality, 3D holography, imaging and does it dissapear like gershman in your room?

[@DesignVisStudios]

SB Acoustics are coming out with some Textreme cones soon that look to rival Be for much less cost. These might be that?

[@khoi83]

With d,Appolito configuration of the drivers mmmm

[@robins20071985]

Hi Thomas, i own the cayin cs55a. Would you say it's a good match with the 509? Or is it just too low on power. I have never even pushed the volume over 10 o'clock with the cayin on my blumenhofer tempesta 17 speakers. But those are more efficiënt. Thanks.

[@RafaelGrigorian]

Im looking to get AE500's to pair with Bluesound Powernode 2i, do you think it's a good choice? Or should I get an all-in-one solution like KEF LS50 Wireless II?

[@MrAnddre]

Hi Thomas, could you please list your tracks test? Thanks for the video. BR,

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Most are chinese songs that are not on youtube. For example, if you look at my Focal Sopra 2 review, I listed on of them.

[@MrAnddre]

@@ThomasAndStereo , no problem, if possible could you please list some of the artist's names as I have some titles. BR

[@ThomasAndStereo]

龍鼓, Usher test CD (www.discogs.com/Various-Usher-The-Diamond-Revolution/release/7062516) check Usher test cd on youtube. 蔡琴 試音. Best of Audiophile Voices I to IV (kzbin.info/www/bejne/rYPak2Scosukj68), Angus & Julia Stone Down The Way, wonder woman sound track and a lot more.

[@MrAnddre]

@@ThomasAndStereo , thanks for the list. I already have some of them. Personally the best thing from the equipment video reviews, aside from the review technical input about the component at hand, is the reviewer tracks evaluation list. I use it as a source of new music material. So, for instance, whenever I come across some new scandinavia jazz singer or some camaronese great voice or from Singapore I find it very rewarding. By the way, I am from Brazil. If by any chance you are interested in some "local references", let me know which genres you like and I will try to give you some names. After all, in the end of the day, we are here for the music :). BR,

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@MrAnddre Sure, why don't you give me a few tracks and tell me what you use that track for? What I should listen for?

[@karlcotleanu4144]

MTM (Mid/Tweeter/Mid) speakers often called 2.5's are a great, and often preferred set up over 3 way designs. I have a pair of Royd Audio "Doublets" from circa 1995, clearly outclassed by these, but lovely sound nonetheless.

[@markuspajonk7762]

But they are really 2-ways :)

[@karlcotleanu4144]

@@markuspajonk7762 Technically, yes, in the case of the Doublets. Even though old reviews have said otherwise. Though I am not sure how these speakers are wired?

[@vicg5323]

I see my Yamaha on your cabinet. I wonder how that speaker sounds with the as2200.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Right now, it sounds ok at normal volume. Once I push the volume, the midrange bump really shows up. Having said that, I am still missing about 60 hours of break in for the Yamaha so I can't really judge it. It is quite transparent.

[@dougg1075]

Thomas & Stereo thanks for the mini review:)

[@saedamad]

Good morning from Singapore Thomas

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Ah Singapre, one of the best place to eat.

[@saedamad]

@@ThomasAndStereo yep food paradise lol

[@Rajesh_KL]

Thank you for your video. What does (-6) mean in the frequency range feature? Can you explain the difference in frequency response and frequency range of the speaker specification?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I just randomly found something on this forum. Ideally , the specs should list +-3db. forum.audiogon.com/discussions/freq-range-50hz-20khz-at-3db-please-explain#:~:text=The%20%2B%2D3db%20refers%20to,or%20half%20the%20sound%20level.

[@Rajesh_KL]

@@ThomasAndStereo Thank you so much

[@JDG1971]

Another nice video. I've already asked you. You should hear the Kef Reference Model 4.2 once. Greetings from the Netherlands Limburg Maastricht ... It is and remains a fun hobby ...👌👍😉

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Maybe those 4.2 are so good that they never show up on the used market. I never seen them before.

[@JDG1971]

@@ThomasAndStereo Indeed. Glad I have them. I hope you can hear them someday. Who knows. Above all, continue with what you are doing. We enjoy it. Thank you Thomas 👍😉

[@johnsweda2999]

Yes I've been thinking about carbon tweeters for a little while is this the only tweeters carbon fibre I was thinking more compression drivers. Is it stiff or soft Graphene will be the next that will be good. Who make the tweeter

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I don't know if it is stiff or soft as I am too afraid to press on it. 😊

[@johnsweda2999]

@@ThomasAndStereo you can stroke it lightly won't do it any harm said the actress to the bishop lol

[@tee-jaythestereo-bargainph2120]

Those look nice , give me low end down to 40-45hz and i am good to go I only need good speed tightness with a lil weight in the lowend 'articulate bass' ! To me To much low end can overshadow the tonality of the midrange and yes i am a tone horn ! 😃 thanks Thomas The bookshelf. Model got me curious !!!!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Good for people who are not into the V curve.

[@gokhanersan8561]

How would ae509 compare to Burchardt s400 mkii or Dynaudio Heritage Special?

[@oluhamilton2121]

Went to CAF 2022 to purchase a Harbeth and ended up with Acoustic Energy.

[@francisdelacruz6439]

How does the sound tonality compare to the W Elysium and Raidho. Listened to the Raidho line and even their entry level could be an end game speaker. Unfortunately it's priced line one, tsk....

[@stevec3526]

This speaker is actually called the Acoustic Energy AE509.

[@hushpuppykl]

Nice review. How does it compare with the M30? In terms of clarity, refinement etc 😬

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Oh, I need to spend a bit more time with the M30 to really say. The M30 midrange is definitely smoother and you can hear more detail in the midrange. But these AE509 feel a lot faster and modern sounding with a more holographic sound stage.

[@hushpuppykl]

Thomas & Stereo ... aaaaaah ok. I’m hunting for a bigger pair of speakers. On the top of list is M30.2 XD. Guess I’m still a Harbeth fanboy 😬

[@janpedersen8376]

Thomas, any chance you will be reviewing the AE520 when available?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I might not have time, will see as my schedule is currently really packed.

[@janpedersen8376]

That is not bad, hope your schedule is enjoyable and fun. Look forward to the next!

[@TomAgnar]

Did u try spendor classic 100?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

No I have not, the only Spendor I have is the Sp8.

[@HungryEatNow]

Classe ❤️❤️❤️

[@danc2014]

Please explain how you set up the spike feet on a wood floor without damaging it. ( the floor)

[@ThomasAndStereo]

www.amazon.ca/Golden-Plated-Subwoofer-Amplifier-Shockproof-Double-Sided/dp/B07RMYGH5W/ref=sr_1_3_sspa?dchild=1&keywords=spike+feet&qid=1600696441&sr=8-3-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEyTVJHWlhQRzU4MUFRJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNTEyMDQwSjkyMFpMODI4VFAxJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTA5MjM1NTgxMTVVTVUxVE5YV0RYJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfYXRmJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==

[@geoffreyvanhouwaert8677]

I'm keeping mine💕

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Glad you are enjoying it.

[@martinda7446]

Tweeters that made an impression on me. Magneplanar ribbon. Ionofane tweeter. QUAD 57 tweeter. Heil Air Motion Transformer. KEF T27. The Maggies and the Quad have it for me. The T27 just always sounds sweet and wonderful? Get an old pair of KEFs...

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Nice. I have 3 pairs of old KEF. KEF 107, 105, and 104.

[@martinda7446]

@@ThomasAndStereo Wow! they take up some floor space! I imagine you know I would pick the 104s..(NOT the MK2s) Though I was sort of suggesting in my comment a speaker of lowlier proportion.. Are the 107s the better speaker to your ear?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@martinda7446 Yes, the 107 is objectively a better speaker but I prefer the 105 and 104. Weird but that is how I feel.

[@dannyng5427]

I am not looking after I bought Maggies 1.7i

[@ThomasAndStereo]

So that is your endgame speaker, nice.

[@martinmbokazi8372]

Will these be OK placed 40cm from the rear wall and played at moderate volume ? Thank you

[@ThomasAndStereo]

It should be because bass is not bloated with these. However, I like amazing soundstage so I have them pulled out at least 3 feet. Just email them and tell them I ask you to reach out to them.

[@martinmbokazi8372]

@@ThomasAndStereo Fantastic, thank you

[@shawnwu3170]

Wish you can review Harbeth M30 one day...

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I have the 30.1, I might review it one day.

[@shawnwu3170]

@@ThomasAndStereo I am thinking about buying it and see how it compares with Buchart S400, and see if it is worth it, for the midrange part.

[@shawnwu3170]

@@ThomasAndStereo just kind of getting bored about the existing sound and not sure what other well-established brand could sounds like while it compares with my reference. Unfortunately I only hear few speakers in the past... :(

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Well, if you want a different sound than S400, then the M30 will be a good choice. Speakers like Focal are also another possible solution. In short, as soon as you move away from the 'wave guide' sound, you will experience something different. Not necessary better but different.

[@cch33tah53]

Nice review! Can anyone recommend a place to buy this speaker in Singapore?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Email them and let them know you saw the video and would like to listen to them at Singapore. Amazing place for food btw Singapore...I was there for 3 years.

[@floshi6519]

Hey Thomas! I want to ask you something about my setup. I ask you because you are one of the best reviewers on HiFi, expecially on amps.. I have a Nad 3020 in my room. It is a good amp for the price but I would like more! I want to squeeze all the sound of my Klipsch RP600M. What's in your opinion the best Budget Class-A Amp you will buy immediately under 1000$? And under 600$? Thank you!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks, I don't know any class A modern amp that cost under $1k. There is no best amp, it depends what you are looking for. More holographic soundstage? Faster and tigher bass? Smoother vocals? etc. There is no amp that can do all that under $1k so you have to prioritize and choose carefully what you value most. What is the NAD3020 do that you find lacking? When you say you like more, more what? More punch in the bass? More speed? More depth in the soundstage? Don't tell me more of everything because it is not possible under $1k. You will need to do a bit of homework. I am going to assume you are looking for an integrated amp and not just an amp. I personally tell people, if you want to upgrade, jump 2 levels, not just one. $1k will let you jump only 1 level max.

[@floshi6519]

@@ThomasAndStereo Thanks for the answer Thomas. I would like to have a warmer sound in the midrange and a really gooood bass control.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@floshi6519 In theory, if you want warmer sound in the midrange, you would go for class AB or tubes. Class D is known for having a slight dip in the mids, that is why I call them slightly lean sounding. If you want really good bass control, it is class D, then class AB, then tubes. So perhaps your solution would be with a class AB amp or tube integrated amp given you want midrange warmth.

[@floshi6519]

@@ThomasAndStereo Which valve amplifier do you raccomend under 1000€ ?

[@ericlarochelle8180]

Hi Thomas, excellent review. I own a pair of Acoustic Energy AE309 and I really like it. Did you heard them ? The AE509 are twice the price, i am wondering if they have the same type of sound than mine but to a higher level... If they worth the cost. The carbon fiber in the 509 make them so different. If it’s a real upgrade I would like to buy them soon.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

The AE309 uses an aluminium tweeter right? If so, you can think of them as completly different speakers. The will not have the same type of sound. Even the soundstage would nto be the same, look at how the drivers are arranged. Best to go listen to one because you might feel it really rolled off when compare to a metal tweeter.

[@zilerama]

Hi Thomas, I looked through the comments to check if anyone asked already but did not find it. how are they compared to Monitor Audio Silver 300. These are around 1000$ more.. but I wonder if it's worth? Did you maybe have a chance to listen to MA S300?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

If you like Silver 300 top end extension, you would be looking for speakers like Focal ,B&W and so forth as an upgrade. If you don't care for the 300 treble response, then these should win when it comes to soundstage. I only heard the Silver series once but have owned the MA gold 300GX and RS8.

[@bashman59]

After you have wetted my Apertite it would be good if you could review the 520 as well. But I am very tempted. Would you think they would be a good upgrade to Old Focal 826 Chorus.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Oh, everything should be better BUT, it is a question of taste for the top end extension. As you know, Focal have that sharpness that a lot of people love. I had the Focal 836v and I also now have a 836W but modified. So you might love the carbon fiber tweeter but you might also not. I would LOVE to check out the 520 but if that speaker comes in my house, they are not going to get it back 🤣🤣

[@pliedtka]

Better or different, best to try it in own room with own electronics.

[@nononsense423]

Hello Thomas, two questions: did you end up buying this pair? and would you expect a big difference with the higher model AE520?? THX

[@ThomasAndStereo]

No, I figure I should l listen to the AE520 first before making a decision. Yeah, I am hoping there will be a bigger sense of scale with the AE520.

[@WelkySchullin]

In my opinion there is no giant killers maybe just some expensive gear which is not at the level it should be. Only way to get some giant killer is to get some local small manufacturer, Chinese experienced manufacturer or get the speakers build from experienced crossover maker and get the best drivers you can affort. Than you can reach the sound of the giants for less money.. Othervise most of the gear is right at its price point.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I would say you are right and it also depends how we define giant killer. I explained my point of view on giant kller in the Topping D90 DAC review.

[@martinmbokazi8372]

What is your opinion ACOUSTIC ENERGY AE509 vs KEF R5 ? Which speaker is better? Thank you

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I never heard the R5 but I had the R700. I prefer the AE509, better sound stage and instrument clarity. Faster and lower bass.

[@martinmbokazi8372]

@@ThomasAndStereo Thank you Sir

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Sorry made a mistake, I meant I prefer the AE509

[@martinmbokazi8372]

@@ThomasAndStereo You mean you prefer the AE509 to the KEF R700 ? Thank you

[@martinmbokazi8372]

Many thanks and fully appreciates