X-LS Encore Review! End Game DIY Hi-Fi!?

[@thadbiser]

Your reviews just keep getting better and better. Thanks!

[@bwithrow011]

Can't wait to get mine. I've been following Ron and Danny for a while. These guys know what they are doing

[@edwardbalboa5528]

U think ?

[@edwincartagena1560]

Where do you stand in comparison between the X-LS Encore vs the CSS Criton 1TD-X?

[@seejayfrujay]

12:30 Paper cones. So nice to hear about this topic. Paper cone formulations were a guarded secret back in the day. Paper is the only cone driver material I can live with long term, though I would love to hear what Zellaton speakers sound like. Polk Audio, as far as I know, was one of the first speaker companies to understand the importance of the crossover. In the late 70s, I watched the Model 7a and 10 beat the competition on the retail floor with a decent box, very good drivers (a bespoke small woofer and a Peerless dome tweeter), with a well-designed crossover devoid of sand resistors, iron core inductors, and electrolytic caps. It was hilarious to hear this at their price point. An A/B would often go like "Sound stage", "No sound stage".

[@bmags6697]

It makes me smile when I hear your kids in the other room playing!

[@dominicvalois]

You're totally right on the paper cone drivers! Cello is my favorite instrument and it only truly sounds proper on paper cone drivers. I've heard cello on many type of drivers and it does sounds amazing on other drivers but the tone and texture on the paper cone driver make it so much more palpable and realist. Keep up the good work!

[@SSStroger]

I've been bitching internally about bass texture and resolution for a while, glad I found this video.

[@dinhduynguyen3809]

I think it would have been interesting comparing the Xls with other speakers you have reviewed like the Buchardt S400 or SVS Ultra, just so people have something to compare it too. There is only so much words can describe

[@flyingjeff1984]

GR Research puts up videos on a regular basis giving you this type information. But I warn you, he will likely gore your ox. SVS is a case in point. Cheap crap in a fancy box per Danny. This is a chicken and egg situation. Danny came up with the DIY kits to give people an alternative to rebuilding the crossovers in their overpriced, brand-name speakers.

[@jasonm3871]

I'm 4 years late, but I can comment on the GR's vs. the SVS. I own the X-LX's predecessor, the AV-1's (VERY similar), and for a short time, I had a pair of SVS Ultra Bookshelf's. SVS has recently updated to the Ultra Evolution, but they don't seem all that different from the original Ultra's. The SVS's looked great, produced a wide soundstage, and overall sounded bigger than their size. That's where the compliments end. The soundstage was a sloppy mess. Everything was just everywhere. Nothing had nay separation in space. I've had some far cheaper speakers that did a much better job at placing things in space. This was just before Danny released the upgrade kit for them, which I still likely would have passed on (I sold them for a profit!). Even at 20 (or so) years old, the GR's operate at a different level. Lately, I've been swapping them out with a pair of $5k (when new) floorstanders, and while they of course don't go as low, the GR's do a lot of things better. I really just need to bit eh bullet, and move up the GR line.

[@jameslester6785]

Great analysis! You answered all my questions. Well done.

[@cvee2614]

I have Encores with all options and the plat pack , amazing sound. Best ever.

[@connorduke4619]

Very interesting to see an assessment of DIY speakers and also to focus on the components. I decided a while back not to believe so much in "the design magic of our genius engineers overcoming modest component specs" and to zero on in the components. Case in point the Holo Audio May Dac you more recently reviewed, that has specs that blow most Dacs out of the water both on paper and in reality (inc. separate chassis for dual LPSUs, dual mono double R2R ladders and highly engineered PLL input stage). Similarly in the CD transport world, the Jay's Audio CDT2 Mk3 (Philips CDM-4 reader, OCXO clock, i2s output). With regard to the GR Research speakers I wonder how they match up against the ATC speakers with their formidable 3 inch dome midrange woofers? That is a litmus test most speakers crack against.

[@faisal_sama9763]

Fantastic review again but we need x-statik speakers and thanks again for the amazing videos and high quality videos

[@Newrecordday2013]

Thanks! Yeah I would like to take that X-Statik for a spin someday.

[@jungtarcph]

I really doubt a 2-way will be the End Game Speaker..... I mean, why not more.... 3-Way or more?

[@nathandaniels4823]

I’m totally with you! I’m currently struggling to choose between the X-Encore MTM, the CSS, and the DIYSG Apollo-7 MTM. I’ve heard fantastic things about all three speakers, but never anyone comparing them.

[@WheeledandWellArmed]

Danny has these now in his completed speaker section. I bought the fully upgraded version and my choice of cherry finish. For me building wasn't an option. I'm currently using the Davanti completed speakers at 399 on Danny's design and also in the completed speaker section and must say, they are not a slouch. I have an older Parasound preamp and A23 amp which can push most anything. With a Bluesound Vault and node for inputs. I can't wait for the Encores to arrive. Thanks for your review.

[@bgroovin1343]

How are you liking them now that some time has passed. I'm also thinking of buying a fully upgraded completed pair.

[@WheeledandWellArmed]

@@bgroovin1343 The fit and finish is perfect! They sound better when I got them situated. 12x24 room with doors in the corners behind the speakers so the speakers are 6 foot apart. I have them toed out a 3-5 degrees. I highly recommend them.

[@hughluttrell6350]

I am watching this in 2022,i don`t find any wattage specs for this XLS Encore speaker to match it to a amp.

[@VONDOOM88]

Ron have you ever listened to ascend acoustics CBM-170 SE ? I haven't but I've been looking for a review of them. Maybe Danny has measured a pair of them

[@briansimmons5363]

You're right. As a product manager in a different industry, it's all about market price, competitors and what one is one trying to acheiving in terms of product, messaging and positioning.

[@CubanRedneck]

...FYI the link to GRS is broken!

[@wokthetalk3079]

Hello Ron - hank you for the review f the XL-S Encore ‘Extreme’. I wonder if these speakers need to be brought out into the room 6 to 9 as does the og? Also does Mike sell the cross over update separately? I am a bit confused why f the higher level crossover is better than Danny’s upgrade, then why doesn’t offer it as a 2nd higher even upgrade??

[@GlueFactoryBJJ]

You are essentially talking about viewing a speaker as a system rather than as a collection of individual parts. The great thing about "system thinking" is that is where "the whole is [becomes] greater than the sum of its parts".

[@bennyandreberge491]

what kind og amplifier do you recommend for the X-LS Encore ? im almoste done with my speaker.

[@Rocker6969]

If I only have 2 ft to place the speaker from the rear wall are the XLS encore still worth getting ? Will they sound good ?

[@ryan8773]

ive learned something about my ears an listening. i have to be properly hydrated or else the 1.5k kills me. once water intake is normal.... then... all sounds better....

[@sean_heisler]

Great review, Ron! Now I know that if got this kit that I would need the top of the line parts as I’m a soundstage guy as well. Keep it up with the great videos, man! One suggestion I have is while the way you break down the different frequency range performance does give one an idea of what the speaker sounds like as a whole, it might be nice to hear you talk about it from a more broad standpoint and in summary. Thanks!

[@Newrecordday2013]

Great idea and feedback! Thanks Sean!

[@reyiiteleco]

Thank you for your last comment on the NX-Studio monitors, that is what I was exactly looking for. I want the obsolete best and I wasn't sure between -encore and -sutudio monitors. By the way when are you going to do a review on the nx-studio ?? ;)

[@-Ambos-]

I didn´t really understand... is this speaker in the background the max version of the DIY kit from the homepage? Or is there added something else?

[@coldfinger459sub0]

You keep making me build more speakers. My X-Static’s kit is now going to my sons new remolded house. I’m using Is hard wood floors and stain As the outer shell covering on the speakers to match his room decor. Now the X-LS ENCOR Plus a set or two of those big open baffle towers. And build the open baffle subwoofers. One set of clothes box subwoofer for the small room

[@eksine]

The sonic capacitors cost an extra $120, I don't understand how that's worth it over the regular Erse capacitors

[@edwardbalboa5528]

It isn't

[@eksine]

@@edwardbalboa5528 thanks, I'm actually leaning towards the DIY 3.1A, but that's after they put it back in stock and my Pinnacle PN8+ dies or someone buys it

[@hofmarskal]

They are just about the same price as a pair of KEF LS50 META. Can you compare?

[@stevenshaffer7793]

So, I'm currently in the process of building the X-LS Encores and can't wait to hear them. Which of Danny's subwoofer kits do you recommend to pair with them?

[@stevenshaffer7793]

@gmail name Right. But Danny offers a few different models/configurations. 🤷‍♂️

[@michaellundy3551]

Danny also has a sealed servo sub kit with a single 12” driver that has output all the way down to 10Hz. Also, Rythmik Audio offers the same sub in a commercial version the call the F12G as well as a mid bass module with two 8” drivers that plays down to 30Hz.

[@patrickkerns2022]

did you mention woofer or tweeter size???if not why?? thanks

[@hi-fihaven2257]

Ron those are an awesome looking pair of speakers! Great price tag also. Have a great one man!

[@tdm7290]

Hi Ron, would you pair them with the Quad 34 pre-amp and Quad 306 power amp (AB amp, 50 watts per channel into 8Ω)? Thanks in advance! 🙌

[@Newrecordday2013]

Yes, absolutely

[@cesarjlisboa7586]

I just build my first one. It sounds AMAZING. I design by myself (except the cabinet finger picked); spent less than $200. I think worth at least $300.

[@Skyshakerrrr]

You got $50 dollar speaker.

[@Nahuekeys]

Amazing Ron!, thank you from your amazing content. I really like to know your opinión and comparison of the LGK 1.0 vs the Soundsomelliers. Please! Best regards from Argentina. Take care!

[@toddm9957]

I will say Danny at GR-RESEARCH really knows audio i built his av3's and a servo sub and absolutely love them i also enjoy your channel as well. I have a question for you have you ever heard the album Al Dimeola elegant gypsy?

[@corymarcotte5853]

would be interested to hear your thoughts on using DSP on your base notes?

[@nmnate]

Have you ever listened to one of the Rythmik subs to compare to your open baffles? I doubt I can go with open baffles (3 cats), but I might be strongly considering one of the dual woofer rythmiks (G22 with opposed 12" drivers) as a sub with much less "box".

[@Wuppie62]

Maybe you could cover the open sides with (an open frame with) acoustic fabric or speakerfoam.

[@joelpatrick8965]

Where is the link to the studio monitor?

[@gBoogie47]

Danny's GR Research website is a bit behind the times. If you want info go to the AudioCircle forums and they are there. Plus Danny is old skool so just pick up the phone and call him. If I recall the NX Studio Mini Monitor is going north of $900 but I do believe it comes with the baffles and possibly the flat pack for the price.

[@hxhky]

The title suggests this is a pair of X-LS Encore that everybody can get. But 4:33 this is actually a review of 'Mikes' (whoever that is) custom version?

[@Newrecordday2013]

Meaning - you can have Mike custom make you the same XLS encore as reviewed.

[@stephenscharf6293]

@@Newrecordday2013 So, Ron, I understand the question. It would have been helpful at the beginning to provide some "context and background" info as to how Mike's XLS Encore is different (in whatever ways) than a standard GR-Research X-LR speaker. I didn't really know what you were talking about either, and after watching the video, I still don't know how these are different than a "stock" XLS. So...some VOC (Voice of the Customer) for your channel: When reviewing a speaker like this, which is a custom mod of an exising model, please lay a foundation of understanding for the viewer that establishes CONTEXT. So that the viewer understands how this speaker is different than one might get from purchasing a kit from Danny. That way your viewer will be to obtain INSIGHT about this specific speaker and use that insight to make an informed decision whether they would find it a _value proposition._ Many thanks and keep up the great work. Cheers, Stephen.

[@froidd758]

Ron, can this be my end game speaker for my modest set-up? Here's my set-up match: VPI Prime Scout with Dynavector 20x2 cart. Sutherland KC Vibe phonostage Musical Fidelity M5Si integrated.

[@jonathanodell9884]

Hey Ron thanks for doing this video! Great job! Keep up the good work! Loved my XLS!

[@bradloseke9725]

Great review. Spot on. Have you listened to the x-static speakers? You mentioned the nx monitor but how do they compare to the x-static’s?

[@neccros007]

YES!!!! Waiting for Danny to email me back to get the drivers :)

[@ron6706]

Accurate review and description of their performance. I have the floor-standing version of these speakers with almost all of the upgrades - also built by Mike Lundy. Fantastic speakers and builder. (They have more bass over the bookshelf version if you are wondering but would still benefit from subs.)

[@corymarcotte5853]

Only one additional question. Personal hearing. I have about 80% lose at the top end. Is it worth it to buy good stuff?

[@gBoogie47]

Thanks for finally giving us a review on these speakers. But I have two questions for you: First, are you basing your review on Mike Lundy's suped up version or the diy build you said you did? Secondly, you mentioned that you were going to compare the DIY to Lundy's version but you didn't unless you mean to do a third video.

[@Newrecordday2013]

Hey Greg, Yes- these impressions are based on these specific pair that Mike Lundy sent over. They are upgraded as much as I would imagine the X-LS can be upgraded to. Granted most of the things I said in the video apply to stock XLS up to the points I made about staging - which is where Mikes takes the lead. I hope this helps a little? If not, let me know and ill clarify.

[@gBoogie47]

@@Newrecordday2013 Thx Ron for clarifying. Yeah that snapshot of the crossover from Lundy's is pretty extreme. Are you planning on any more XLS videos or is that it? Man that NX Studio Monitor seems special. I wonder if Lundy is building extreme versions of those as well?

[@Newrecordday2013]

I’m sure he can build something - he’s very talented. In regards to more videos on the encore - yes - actually working on something tomorrow for you all.

[@courtneyswaby3178]

Where is the review of the floorstanding version of the xls Encore

[@jody2965]

Great review, I have been really looking forward to it as I am really interested in building a pair of these. However, I think I would really like the studio monitor much more. Any hints you can give on when they might be available? Soonish?

[@vintrich49]

Can these speakers work for a home theater system. For example can you purchase four (4) of theses speakers for front & rear and add a subwoofer for the fifth channel.

[@joshdeakins1775]

This would depend on the receiver you're trying to use. First most 5.1 surround systems have 2 front, 2 rear and 1 center channel. The .1 is a subwoofer out. Unless the receiver doesn't have a sub out and the sub would need to be wired in with the speakers, passive. Again the .1 is the sub channel design for an active sub. So yes these speakers can be used in a surround system. Just make sure the unit matches the speakers impedance/ohm ratting.

[@jamesoneil9757]

Danny is so diligent about bass, that I’d think these would be awesome for HT with a sub. These monitors are going to have a graceful rolloff on bass, no muddy bass. Leaving a clean handoff for the sub. Either a GR sub or others. All considered in the design by Danny.

[@carltoncotter2614]

Can I use a pair of the H frame open baffles subs - but while using these on my desktop, in a nearfield / "bridge" configuration?

[@edwincartagena1560]

Hey Ron, love watching your videos. I have a question, if you were given a choice between the X-LS Encore and the CSS 1 TD-X, which would you choose?

[@Newrecordday2013]

Encore

[@edwincartagena1560]

@@Newrecordday2013 Thank you!

[@corymarcotte5853]

excellent work. it sounds like they would b similar to a good set of studio monitors?

[@dangatton7138]

so can i take my speaker cabinet components and replace them with these components . I like the cabinets I have ..

[@EnpuerKT]

Yes, you can do that as long as you have the same values for caps, resistors and inductors, but be aware that you will be “coping” the budget design from the factory. So why waste your money on quality parts? If you still wanna upgrade yourself then check out soniccraft.com for quality components. The best option is to have Danny at GR-Research measure your cabinets and design a custom made crossover kit. Also he will also provide suggestions on your wiring, connecting posts and cabinet insulation options.

[@greenbeginner9221]

I'm trying to decide between the encores and the elac UniFi 2.0 bookshelves. I've only seen one shootout between the two and the conclusion was that the encores won except in the mid-range. The thought was that there is more detail and transparency in the elac but kind of a creamy smoothness in the encores. Would you say that this is an accurate comparison in your point of view?

[@edwardbalboa5528]

Did elac choose Andrew Jones or Danny ?

[@greenbeginner9221]

@@edwardbalboa5528 Well, Andrew Jones, obviously. Who knows what Elac is going to do now that Andrew Jones is moving on? It is a fascinating world though, isn't it? How often do we actually know who designs this stuff for companies? For example, who designs Cambridge or MacIntosh electronics and maintains their similar sound in most all their products? Some companies may keep certain designers on tap. But, still, do they have some kind of a benchmark unreleased product that all their other products have to sound like? I'd love to have the inside scoop.

[@andymenendez7824]

Hello Ron, just putting the finishing touches in these. Just waiting on the tube connectors that have been in back order. Question, if these go down to 55 hz, where, in your opinion, should I crossover the woofer? Thanks in advance.

[@edwardbalboa5528]

Forget 55hz ..... More like 100hz at best

[@andymenendez7824]

@@edwardbalboa5528 Mine seem to do pretty well, but I did cross over my subs at about 80-100Hz. I also noted some break up at high db levels close to THX reference but that might just be the speaker's limitations. Still, I'm pretty happy with them but I'm going floor standers from now on.

[@anandshah71]

Nice video Ron can u do a video on servo sub dual 12” in H frame and w frame What’s the Accoutstic diff Also in stereo and single channel dual driver what’s diff Also servo and non servo Sorry many questions but no youtube r has done done this yet

[@kenthobbs9527]

What amp would you need to power the subs and the xls?

[@charlesclifton5896]

Great review. Been in contact with Danny & Peter re possibilities but now you mention this "other" speaker (NX Studio) and I am REALLY interested. Sorry Ron, but I don't see a link. Could you provide one? I also do not see the speaker at GR Research. Open baffle tweeter !!!!!!!!!! I'm sold. Thanks, big thumbs up!!!!

[@johnbeeck2540]

Nice overview - should there be a right and left speaker - where the tweeter is offset to the side opposite of the other speaker?

[@panoskonstantinidis1950]

Ron, why don’t you do a review of the NX-Studios? That would be very interesting...

[@Newrecordday2013]

I actually have a pair here that I’ll be building and reviewing. It will happen.

[@panoskonstantinidis1950]

New Record Day great!!! When do you think you will have the review ready? Will you use the H-frame dual openbaffle subs?

[@Newrecordday2013]

Waiting on some final details for a potential flat pack that will he offered to you guys... should be pretty soon!

[@erichill5328]

New Record Day A flat pack for the NX Studios....????? If that is right that would be great...!!!

[@PG-PCW]

Do you think these speakers will match well with a class D Amplifier as I'm afraid that can be fatiguing or too analytical. Can you tell us your thoughts?

[@Corndog642]

Heh! Danny: Hey everybody!

[@peterdesmidt8742]

Regarding bass...how about a good infinite baffle manifold system?

[@tagheuer001]

Can you compare these to the Maggie's? I know it's apples and oranges, but any effort would be great!

[@Newrecordday2013]

Yikes. Thats a strange comparison...

[@dudN8R]

How would you compare the upgraded Encores vs the NX-Studios?

[@rikardekvall3433]

Ron! How does the XLS work with the Audiolab 6000, that you had/have in the back? Drove the effortless or? Keep up your great work.

[@matsnaslund5762]

Have U ever heard Ino audio pi60/piP and/or Guru Q10?

[@gregorycollins3096]

What do I need to hook these up to my Apple TV and video screen? I currently have powered speakers.

[@joeygonzo]

a DAC and an amp

[@chrisvinicombe9947]

So when's that measurement rig gonna be up and running? I miss having objective data to chew.

[@Newrecordday2013]

Shouldn’t be much longer - maybe a couple weeks at most!

[@chrisvinicombe9947]

That's good news

[@joeygonzo]

@@chrisvinicombe9947 did u see it ?

[@kenstephens2955]

Hi Ron. I appreciate the breakdown of the frequency ranges, that’s great. You didn’t actually describe the bass of the speaker itself. I’m left with the impression that this speaker is useless without a pair of Danny’s subs. Is that what you are trying to convey? I promise this is a genuine question. With love, Ken

[@Newrecordday2013]

Actually that’s a fair question! The bass is decent on the encores but I wouldn’t say it’s world class on its own specifically talking about how low they go. If you are fine with mid 40s to low 50s, great! If not, you really do need subs!

[@kenstephens2955]

New Record Day, Thanks Ron!

[@dannyrichie9743]

I'll take this one. The X-LS Encore woofer is stuffed into a smaller than optimal air space to give you everything else at a high level, but in a small package. It is solid down to about 60Hz and is -3db at 55Hz. If you want lower extension then simply build the X-SLS version of the kit. This is the same speaker, but it utilizes an optimal ported box in a small floor standing version. This version allows the bottom end to extend down to a -3db of 45Hz.

[@kenstephens2955]

Danny Richie Thanks! The X-SLS sounds like the better fit for me in my small room. Does something similar exist for the NX-Studio? With love, Ken

[@dannyrichie9743]

@@kenstephens2955 We're going to be offering a stand for it with powered woofers.

[@20somthingrealestate]

Ok what's inside?

[@donalddeorio2237]

I've used peerless drivers in other projects and have always had good results.

[@Steve-nu9op]

the bass drop in Bad Guy, not really a good test. i can hear the distortion using my laptop and my $10 Panasonic earbuds

[@trulyjared]

Man that video was tightly edited. Really like it! Awaiting the toasty guy to pop up in the right corner. Very enjoyable!

[@Newrecordday2013]

Thanks!

[@JukeboxAlley]

I have them, with full upgrades, and yes i can say they could be endgame bookshelves, coming from a picky kef ls50 and meta owner, and revels etc. These are incredible for the money, no weakness, and love the soft dome. Theyll rival nearly any other bookshelf period.

[@edwardbalboa5528]

Try Epos ES14

[@bgroovin1343]

I'm about to buy the metas but am seriously considering buying a full upgrade version of these instead. Especially since I can get them premade now. Are you still happy with them?

[@JukeboxAlley]

@@bgroovin1343 I had the order final ls50, and the metas, liked em both but...for nearfield their very very good like the LS3/5a, but for big rooms not so much, I've found I like the kef q350 better than the ls50 hands down, waaay more low end, midrange magic and top ends a little warmer, keg q350 wins, but the encores with all options on crossovers will outclass any of these mentioned, that's my opinion and have compared them side by side, it's not close, the revel m106 and q350 are the closest to the encores for me but still not as musical and can't get as loud at higher levels, other than the q350 having a heftier low end that can dig a little deeper, it's totally up to u in the end.

[@sarbart823]

Please tell me the difference between the X-LS and the Spatial MS Saphire

[@Newrecordday2013]

Sure! One is a diy bookshelf speaker that sounds very good. The other is an open baffle speaker that saves marriages, reverses climate change, solves world hunger, brings balance to the force and corrects everything wrong about 2020. The end.

[@IndigoBlues-dt7ob]

What customizations would you recommend i get from the kit if i'm trying to build a speaker (pair) for $500 that compare to the Klipsch 660m?

[@tedmanasa907]

Great video! Are those H-frame subs appropriate for home theater? I like a lot of output during action sequences.

[@Newrecordday2013]

Sure, they can work for home theater, no problem!

[@moktaabdul6310]

So in other words these speakers are neutral, not like PMC DB1GOLD, super bright, extreme micro details, 80Khz beyond human hearing, ultra precise extreme high treble, thsn Klopsch rpm600? I'm looking for razor sharp detail like klipsch rpm600, but much sharper like PMC5.22.

[@Frankfoldetta]

What is nxodica

[@tomkershaw4384]

HI Ron, Would you characterize these loudspeakers as transparent, uncolored or neutral ?

[@Newrecordday2013]

All of the above to be honest!

[@WhiskeyTangoFoxtraught]

Welcome to HIFI my friend, bust out your checkbook, you’re going to need it!

[@Skyshakerrrr]

Who has a checkbook anymore lol😂😂😂?

[@AverageNiceGuy]

Thank you 😎 "bust out your checkbook, your gunna need it" 😂 Yep, no listening fatigue. I first experienced this with Danny-recommended BG deep cup ribbon tweeters.

[@xoulsinz]

Hi Ron, how do these compare to CSS 2TD? Thanks!

[@rlowes]

Great review Ron. Enjoyed it thoroughly. You mentioned sound clips pending, but what of measurements?

[@avjake]

It's pretty funny when Danny shows "What's Inside" some of these high-falutin' speakers that get sent in for review.

[@bradhuskers]

What's your opinion on the klipsch sixes?

[@ca77721]

This sounds like my speaker sound preference .Neutral and transparent.

[@weldchip]

Texture in the bass. Mj billy jean, when it's right that bass line just makes you wanna slide across the room 😜

[@happychappy2014]

Try to review the default kit. Not Mike’s version.

[@poozkin]

Great review! Wath is the difference between those and the top sls?

[@hofmarskal]

Thats a really nice looking finish?

[@gregorycollins3096]

I am ordering my kit and am presented with the option of X-LS or X-SLS. What is the difference?

[@briansimmons5363]

I am in the same situation, deciding between the two. SLS is really a 37" moderate floor stander so claim is no expensivive stands. Yes stands are $100 plus. Plus tuned lower. SLS needs 8'x4' sheet of mdf and 8'x4' walnut or other veneer it all adds up.

[@dannyrichie9743]

The two versions are the same speaker. Only the low end extension is different from the lower tuning of the X-SLS version.

[@paulcs2607]

You are totally right that most audiophiles have never heard bass with texture and tone.

[@neerajkorde]

what are some good amps that will pair well with them ? iotavx ?

[@rothgartheviking858]

I would like to see you review the xstatics

[@infn]

IKR, when I first heard those Billie Ellish tracks with distortion mixed in on my main system I had to pause and double check with my headphone rig just to make sure my dear woofers/amplifier hadn't croaked. :p When are the Studio Monitors dropping?

[@nathandaniels4823]

RON, great review! Elephant in the room: how did these compare to the CSS speakers you reviewed? WE NEED TO KNOW

[@A-Definite-Maybe]

Yes, we need to get an answer, please Ron please!!!!

[@xoulsinz]

I'd like to know as well!

[@barney6888]

Someday I will get these.

[@mitsuracer87]

Do the kits come with cabinets?

[@dannyrichie9743]

No, but a flat pack is available.