I own the RB42s and I love them. I have them at my desk but I've had them in the living room also and they sounded great. Amazing how much bass they get out of them. If they came out with a larger speaker with a 5 inch, I'd jump on them. Micca, are you listening? Great little speakers.
Those who have reviewed this speaker say the same thing about the bass....and more so that it is a 4 incher.....They are impressed! This make a great case for when there is no space for a bookshelf speaker like the Elacs Debut 2.0 B6.2 which I recently purchased on this Black Friday for $239/pair (the B5.2 at $199). As a matter of fact it seems that these match or even beat the 6.2 low end bass (+/- 3db). Yes, they don't sound as good but like you say, they are kind of fun, maybe an overkill for the desktop. I bought the Elacs for the bedroom and wanted something fancy to drive them but the cost of the Cambridge AXA35 int amp was, at $350, a little bit too stiff for my bedroom system budget ($500
I have a pair of the mb42xs as a pair of computer speakers as I was looking to get something that's more audiophile grade without breaking the bank, and I have to say I'm amazed by how clear they sound, if I'm playing music of them they almost sound like the artist is right in the room playing live! like for instance if I play like "Battery" by Metallica for example you can actually hear the picks hitting the strings on the acoustic guitars in the intro!
There can't be much room for profit margin with a speaker like that, you'd think they'd skimp on quality not use thicker mdf . 100% agree with you're opening statements there something deeply satisfying about squeezing as much performance as you can out of a tight budget, it truly makes something your own..!!
Agree with you that they're sacrificing profit margins for getting potential audio enthusiasts interested in this hobby. A speaker like this could hook someone for life. I'm sure the MB42X did that for a lot of people. I think Micca has the right idea.
I got the MB42Xs and a Dayton Audio Sub 12000 and a Lepy LP 2024A+ for a music listening as I wanted something that was of an audiophile grade without breaking the bank, and I'm very happy with the Soundstage. I was Spinning some Queen on my turntable and it sounds almost like Freddie Mercury is actually in the room!
I enjoy and trust your opinions. I’m no audio expert, just a 68 yr old retired guy looking for good easy listening speakers to go with a Sony 190 receiver. I have the Sony SSCS5 which I’ll keep. I just bought the Micca RB’s. I’m wondering if I’m duplicating sound, listening profiles. Should I buy something other than the RB’s to get a different listening experience from the Sony SSCS5? Price range $100-$200. Room size 220 sq. I have a sub. Thank you.
, I know that Micca likes small speakers but they really need to step up to a 5 inch speaker or even a passive radiator design. these are very good but need at least twice the power. I do plan on getting a pair with a Emotiva 150 amp or Yamaha receiver rated at 100 wpc/rms.
thanks for the detail on the crossovers. It's those details that make your reviews so anticipated. I can't wait to your take (validation actually) on the Klipsch RP600M's!
Came for the Miccas, stayed for the easter egg 👍🏾 In my 5.2.4 I use the MB42X & MB42X-C as my LCR. The Covo-S as my Surround Rears and JBL 8" In-ceilings for Front & Rear Atmos/DTS-X. Miccas are multipurpose audio-phile friendly and Spouse approved for the living room!
@@joentell Room is in open space, 16x16, hardwood, no curtains just blinds. Only acoustical treatment is a 9x6 rug. The two subs are Polk Audio SW505. Receiver is an Onkyo TX-NR787. The Miccas fit right in the sound stage and 1 yr later haven't felt a want or need to upgrade :)
Tweaking will always be a thing for audiophiles,from changing wires/cables to tube rolling,cap replacements and so forth..those are learning/experimenting journey of what works and what not that makes this hobby a worthwhile venture to those interested enough.
@@joentell fortunately I still have most of the equipment I purchased in the last 20 years. I've been experimenting with the Loki on the old stuff and I'm blown away. I've spent thousands of dollars upgrading preamp, cables, interconnects, phono cartridges, speakers just to make subtle and sometimes superficial changes. Glad I took a chance on the Loki. It has made a huge audible difference.
Great video, Joe. Well thought out and very informative, as usual.The comparisons/rankings at the end are invaluable; they make things even more interesting and put them in perspective. Excellent!! Thank you!
i got 3 pairs of refurbished mb42, all the tweeters were blown within a year, didn't care to replace them. the fake wood vinyl finish peels sooner than it should, i guess one should go with the matte black, and for the price those rb42 should be matte black for a lasting finish.
Had an eighty-nine Masda 626 very much liked it after I put new struts in it and a pair of nice Falcon tires up front just one size up . The 2.2 not much horse power but nice torque. Mazda built nice inexpensive cars back then. The independent twin trapezoidal linked rear suspension was great. It gave you some cornering control using the accelerator pedal to keep the terminal under stear under control. A little of topic...good Chanel though...
If you high pass these with your receiver along with a sub they become more efficient. In other words if they aren't playing the lows, you can turn them up more.
. . . also, with the high pass filter, you cut freqs wherever you set it, usually around 100hz, so nothing below that freq passes into the RB-42, improving lower-mids,and everything up to tweeter xover, as less motion in the 'woofer', improves the mids, the holographic effect.
@Joe N Tell *I have a recording mastering studio and I am changing my monitor configuration to a 9 speaker surround L/R Configuration. Whereas I will have a single Dayton Audio 15" SUB front and center and my L/R tops will be 4 boxes literally running across the Left wall and the same on the right side - all pointing toward mix position... I had settled on the (x8) FLUANCE SIGNATURE SERIES BOOKSHELF'S for this task... however, I am seeing this MICCA RB42 and i am intrigued to say the less.....* *Question is,* "which speakers between the Fluance Signature Bookshelves or the Micca RB42 would you personally recommend?"
For recording and mixing/mastering, I don't know that any of these would be my first choice. I would say that the Fluance Signature wouldn't be appropriate because of the dip that I experienced in the treble frequencies. That might change the way you mix. The Micca RB42's are some of the flattest speakers I've measured nearfield so that I would rather recommend those than the Fluance for your purposes. I would also take a look at dedicated studio monitors like those from JBL or Yamaha. They are designed for nearfield use. I'm also reviewing some Vanatoo Transparent One Encore powered speakers that also measure well and perform well nearfield.
, I love Micca products. I have the Dayton MK42s at my job on my work bench with the Micca amp @50 wpc with a sub out. to a Dayton amp @75 wpc to a 10 inch sub. I may purchase a pair of these . all my equipment is running off of a simple Sony portable CD/radio player thru the headphone output.
@@joentell Since you have compared the BS22-LR to other speakers, would be great if you can compare it to the RB42 as well. I think, your sound test comparisons where the music alternates between the 2 speakers should give us all a good idea as to which of the two speakers is better.
I was planning on getting these or the MB42X for my garage speakers, currently planning to build. 24'x24' with 10' ceilings. It's a 2 car plus with home gym. Workshop and gym will get used quite a bit. Powering with my Onkyo TX-NR737 that I retired from my basement theater room.
@@joentell Haha! Yeah. I would have a reason to buy and try a Rythmik servo controlled sub in my living room and the BIC PL-200 would go to the garage. Probably gonna buy 2 pairs of bookshelves and run in Multi-channel stereo.
@@joentell I forgot about the NHT SuperOne 2.1 2-Way Bookshelf speakers. They have a 6.5" woofer and are sealed. I have their SuperZero 4" version as my front height channels in my basement theater and they are great. Do you have any experience with the NHT speakers? Built in threaded mounting holes, ready to go on the wall or ceiling.
My crappy computer speakers are failing so I am thinking of upgrading to these Micca RB42s (without a sub). Thanks for the review. Wish I got them off Amazon for $130 it is up to $150 now : (
So why has Fluance discontinued ai60 speakers? Now they only sell bad bookshelf speakers that don't go lower than 60 hz for far higher price?? Makes no sense to stop selling good speakers?
, FYI, the vanatoos are not passive, they are an amplified monitor, caint compair those with these speakers. a more comparison would be between the Q3020i. also, the Fluance ai60s are also amplified and are a monitor, caint compair those either
Question: How do these or any of the newer product for less than $500 compare to the original or "updated" NHT Superzero or Superone bookshelf speakers? I've got both (original versions) and love them when used with a sealed subwoofer or two, but before I part with my money, I would like to be convinced that what is available today is a real upgrade. Any idea? Obviously they won't reproduce the lows as well as the ported cabs but they were intended to be used with subwoofers or, in the case of the Superone, right up against the wall. But do they compare favorably when considering audiophile attributes or has their basic tech met its match? They were both highly regarded back in the day and punched way beyond their price point when it came to sonics above 100 hz. Thanks in advance!
Hey Joe. Try the SMSL sa98 amp. 160 wpc they claim but 100 wpc is more like what it puts out. I just bought a Yamaha 100 wpc/rms off Amazon 130 bucks. Extremely good Especially for the cost.
Thx for your reviews I would like your opinion re:atmos/dts.x height speakers. My current setup is a Denon x3400h , Rotel RB-1552 MKII amp on my FR and FL. 4 Elac Uni-fi slims (BSU5), Centre is a UC5 and my sub is Elac 3010. I dont want to spend a ton on atmos related speakers. Do you think these Miccas or the mb42x will do the trick? Do they have a wide dispersion tweeter? and could you recommend others so that I can research your suggestions? Also I would obviously have to mount the speakers to the wall. Thanks in advance. Cheers!
Great video. For my taste, I think the highs are missing. The overall sound is a bit muddy. But for the price, footprint and build quality, these are a great investment and make a great desktop addition.
These look like the speaker i have been looking for, a desktop setup for my dad. I would like something small, real small, volume isn't a major concern, stylish and sounds good, he listens to classical, jazz, brass bands and folk. Given these parameters would you say these are the ones to get? Could you recommend anything smaller? I am probably getting the smsl ad18 to drive whatever i end up getting.
I just bought an SMSL AD-18, Pioneer BS22 LRs, and a Micca MS-10 for 2.1 desk duty. Sounds great, but would I notice a difference if I swapped out the Pioneers for these Miccas?
Hey Joe N Tell, I buy with your links... What would you say were the Mid and Tweeter differences between the MB42X and the RB42 ??? Were the RB42s more clear? more accurate? Warmer? any differences besides the bump in bass ??
I really appreciate you! The MB42X had significantly less bass. I would say the RB42's are more accurate. The MB42X's had some character with nice vocals. They were very inexpensive also.
I love yours speakers leaderboard. Nice job. Can you help me. Am I hesitating between the Micca RB42 or the EDIFIER R1700BT? I would use them via a PC and an integrated sound card on the motherboard. And they would be used for music, movies and video games... TNX :)
Great review mate. One question: did you paint your mb42x's white? If so, is there a video for that? I've been mulling over the idea of painting my set a matte red!
I have a fellow moderator at reddit.com/r/budgetaudiophile who has the RB-42-C in for review. He said they don't play as deep as the original RB-42 despite having two woofers.
Hey man! Question for you, how do you think these would pair with the Andrew Jones Pioneer front stage (fs52 and c22) if you use these as Rears? The fact that these are so small would make it easier to use as rears especially for the wife Factor
Hi Joe. Great video as always. Do you have any thoughts on the Sony SSCS5 3-Way Bookshelf Speaker? I've heard good things about the sound stage and the detail and clarity at all volumes. I would have thought this speaker would have a place on your under 200 list. Any thoughts? Thanks!
Looking to buy some beginner audio stuff. Would these pair nicely with the Topping MX3? I’d be using them for my desk setup, Xb1X and PC. Music, movies/shows, and some gaming. What I’ve been looking at for my needs is: •FX Audio dac X6 & Smsl sa50 amp paired with the rb42’s OR •the Topping MX3 and the rb42’s. OR •the fx Audio dac X6 paired with the pb42x’s. I am a complete novice and would like some help/advice with this stuff, if possible. I’d like to control the volume from the dac/amp. My sources are spidf (console) and usb(pc).
This was my thought, but the MX3 is listed as 40wpc, so I'm not sure it could push them enough. Haven't tested, though. SMSL AD18 is listed at 80wpc, which is why I think Joe recommended that one.
I just got a set of jamo s805 which have the same drivers as the s803 but with a bigger enclosure. How would I go about determining if my new speakers have some of the quality issues that you saw with your s803's? I saw you had complaints about a low frequency resonance in one speaker but not the other, was that it?
Thanks Joe for another great review. Do you have a plan to review that SVS Prime Soundbase I saw on the video? if not could you give me some thought about it? I'm thinking to get either SVS Prime soundbase or PS Sprout100 and pair it with my Elac Debut 2.0 B6.2 for my small living room. Thanks,
It's definitely more than powerful enough to drive the B6.2's. It is exclusively controlled with the app so dedicated remote for volume and input control. That's my main gripe. I haven't tried out the Sprout 100.
Cool stuff! I only own 1 pair of speakers and want to buy more, although I feel if I buy more i'll never be able to stop haha :) I want one of those mini tube amps you looked at in a previous video, just for the coolness factor.
Joe N Tell I hope Martin Logan emails you soon. The motion 15’s are a strange speaker. The frequency response is only down to 70hz. Maybe because they want it to be paired with a sub? Only going to 70 hz allows the speakers to be powered with less powerful amps for sure, and lets them get louder as well but they definitely don’t shake the house.
What would you recommend for basic listening and some gaming for a desk setup that has Bluetooth support for connecting via phone? Have been looking fo a while but couldn't make a decision
These Micca RB42's will likely produce more than enough bass and get more than loud enough for a typical dorm room. No need for a sub. That's the ideal use case for these.
Hey Joe, great review! I just received my RB42's a few days ago. I really didn't need the speakers, I just really wanted to hear them. LOL. I'm actually looking for a pair of speakers for my son's bedroom. I said he could have these ones, but he's not very happy with them. Damn kid is 13 and thinks he knows everything. LOL. My question to you is he really wants the fluance sx6, how would you compare the two? He likes bassy music, I guess you could call it rap music. He will be getting a small sub too, he wants to buy the 10" Polk sub, I think it's the PSW10. Anyways would the Fluance be an upgrade from the Micca's? He has a Sony 590 receiver. Thanks man.
@@joentell I understand you but the woofer on Micca looks over kill, so why not compare with Dynaudio focus 110 or BM6A for example. Anyway you do a create job 👍
Yo thank you for the information that you always share with people on UA-cam. Question for you. I have a parasound hca 1000 a stereo amplifier. These amplifier have four bad capacitors, each of them has 10000 UF my question is can I install capacitor with higher values or I have to stick with the same values.
The Micca OriGen G2 is a DAC and Pre Amplifier, not an amplifier. It has enough power to drive a pair of headphones, but not enough to drive a pair of speakers. You will need an amplifier with two channels - such as the SMSL SA-98. There are tons and tons of amplifiers available, you don't have to buy that specific amplifier. But you do need an amplifier. You can plug the Micca OriGen G2 DAC into the amplifier and use it as a source.
Must buy ..... Micca MB42X ...... 4 quantity And 8 - 10 inch subwoofer ..... ........ RB 42 has bass ..... I like it ..... But ....when u put more volume on that .. RB42's Xmax cross easy and gets rattling sound ( this is law of physics ) ... U not able to put high volume on RB 42 .... ................ Main benifit of MB 42x is ..... 1) price is less than RB 42 .... Which is u able to get subwoofer for MB42X 😎 2) when u play louder on MB42X .... Which direct benifit on theirs MID range performance than RB 42 ... Especially when u play EDM music on it 👍 3) when u pair with subwoofer with MB42X ...... U will get all rounder performance than RB 42 4) RB 42 is limited to ... Near field / high watt need / not versatile / ...................... ...................... My recommendation to get this pair ... MB42X ....... For RL + SRL ... 4 quantity MB42X-c ....... For center 8 - 10 inch subwoofer / woofer Frequency reng between ( 30 hz - 1k hz ) .... For better mid base punch 👍👍👍👍
Been watching tons of videos for a budget desktop PC setup. Your channel is my favorite I have come across by far. Is the SMSL AD18 Amp still your recommended amp for these speakers? It will only be connected to my PC and used for volume control. Also might drive some higher end headphones down the road.
Oh man. Was about to order for cheapy home theater use. Then I realized the rear port. I need something for wall mount. Maybe the Sony CS bookshelf speakers afterall.
Buy the Micca RB42 on Amazon Using my Affiliate Link: bit.ly/MiccaRB42
Read the Micca RB42 review /u/JohnBooty on Reddit: bit.ly/JohnBootyRB42Review
I own the RB42s and I love them. I have them at my desk but I've had them in the living room also and they sounded great. Amazing how much bass they get out of them. If they came out with a larger speaker with a 5 inch, I'd jump on them. Micca, are you listening? Great little speakers.
Those who have reviewed this speaker say the same thing about the bass....and more so that it is a 4 incher.....They are impressed! This make a great case for when there is no space for a bookshelf speaker like the Elacs Debut 2.0 B6.2 which I recently purchased on this Black Friday for $239/pair (the B5.2 at $199). As a matter of fact it seems that these match or even beat the 6.2 low end bass (+/- 3db). Yes, they don't sound as good but like you say, they are kind of fun, maybe an overkill for the desktop. I bought the Elacs for the bedroom and wanted something fancy to drive them but the cost of the Cambridge AXA35 int amp was, at $350, a little bit too stiff for my bedroom system budget ($500
I have a pair of the mb42xs as a pair of computer speakers as I was looking to get something that's more audiophile grade without breaking the bank, and I have to say I'm amazed by how clear they sound, if I'm playing music of them they almost sound like the artist is right in the room playing live! like for instance if I play like "Battery" by Metallica for example you can actually hear the picks hitting the strings on the acoustic guitars in the intro!
There can't be much room for profit margin with a speaker like that, you'd think they'd skimp on quality not use thicker mdf .
100% agree with you're opening statements there something deeply satisfying about squeezing as much performance as you can out of a tight budget, it truly makes something your own..!!
Agree with you that they're sacrificing profit margins for getting potential audio enthusiasts interested in this hobby. A speaker like this could hook someone for life. I'm sure the MB42X did that for a lot of people. I think Micca has the right idea.
Definitely the way to build brand loyalty more companies should do the same
cough(Bose)cough
I got the MB42Xs and a Dayton Audio Sub 12000 and a Lepy LP 2024A+ for a music listening as I wanted something that was of an audiophile grade without breaking the bank, and I'm very happy with the Soundstage. I was Spinning some Queen on my turntable and it sounds almost like Freddie Mercury is actually in the room!
Joe, I really like your no-nonsense approach in your reviews. Keep up the great work!
I enjoy and trust your opinions. I’m no audio expert, just a 68 yr old retired guy looking for good easy listening speakers to go with a Sony 190 receiver. I have the Sony SSCS5 which I’ll keep. I just bought the Micca RB’s. I’m wondering if I’m duplicating sound, listening profiles. Should I buy something other than the RB’s to get a different listening experience from the Sony SSCS5? Price range $100-$200. Room size 220 sq. I have a sub. Thank you.
, I know that Micca likes small speakers but they really need to step up to a 5 inch speaker or even a passive radiator design.
these are very good but need at least twice the power. I do plan on getting a pair with a Emotiva 150 amp or Yamaha receiver rated at 100 wpc/rms.
Agreed micca should bring out a 5" model in theory MB52 or MB52X
thanks for the detail on the crossovers. It's those details that make your reviews so anticipated. I can't wait to your take (validation actually) on the Klipsch RP600M's!
Came for the Miccas, stayed for the easter egg 👍🏾 In my 5.2.4 I use the MB42X & MB42X-C as my LCR. The Covo-S as my Surround Rears and JBL 8" In-ceilings for Front & Rear Atmos/DTS-X. Miccas are multipurpose audio-phile friendly and Spouse approved for the living room!
I've never heard of full (minus the sub) Micca home theater setup. How does it sound?
@@joentell Room is in open space, 16x16, hardwood, no curtains just blinds. Only acoustical treatment is a 9x6 rug. The two subs are Polk Audio SW505. Receiver is an Onkyo TX-NR787. The Miccas fit right in the sound stage and 1 yr later haven't felt a want or need to upgrade :)
They are quite unobtrusive
Tweaking will always be a thing for audiophiles,from changing wires/cables to tube rolling,cap replacements and so forth..those are learning/experimenting journey of what works and what not that makes this hobby a worthwhile venture to those interested enough.
Experimentation is part of the fun.
Save yourself some time and money and get a Schitt Loki EQ and have some fun. I recently got one and I swear was the missing link to my system.
@@67spankadelik I have one. It's everything you say!
@@joentell fortunately I still have most of the equipment I purchased in the last 20 years. I've been experimenting with the Loki on the old stuff and I'm blown away. I've spent thousands of dollars upgrading preamp, cables, interconnects, phono cartridges, speakers just to make subtle and sometimes superficial changes. Glad I took a chance on the Loki. It has made a huge audible difference.
Great video, Joe. Well thought out and very informative, as usual.The comparisons/rankings at the end are invaluable; they make things even more interesting and put them in perspective. Excellent!! Thank you!
Thanks for the reviews, you deserve a lot more subs, honestly
We want Micca products in Europe, damnit!
I saw a pair sold for $350!
@@joentell Can I pair mb42x with fossi a20 ? Looking for a great sound❤️ really appreciate your help
i got 3 pairs of refurbished mb42, all the tweeters were blown within a year, didn't care to replace them. the fake wood vinyl finish peels sooner than it should, i guess one should go with the matte black, and for the price those rb42 should be matte black for a lasting finish.
You didn't get the MB42X?
@@joentell I bought the x-overs and i think they improved a lot in clarity and tighter bass; but I prefer my superzeros.
Amazing how low budget speakers are getting so much better. They often have some of the sonic qualities of speakers costing 10 times as much!
You are absolutely right!
My new favorite reviewer. Well done!
Joe, just found your channel, great stuff! Really enjoyed the review of the RB42, thanks for the really excellent evaluation.
I am SOOOOOO hoping those PSB Alpha P5's are in your future for testing....would love to see where you place 'em on your chart!
Yes l agree
Though I can’t say with 100% surety, the woofer looks like a Peerless by Tymphany with the truncated frame and convex dust cap.
Nice review.. including measurements and compares is a great thing. Like your channel !
Had an eighty-nine Masda 626 very much liked it after I put new struts in it and a pair of nice Falcon tires up front just one size up . The 2.2 not much horse power but nice torque. Mazda built nice inexpensive cars back then. The independent twin trapezoidal linked rear suspension was great. It gave you some cornering control using the accelerator pedal to keep the terminal under stear under control. A little of topic...good Chanel though...
If you high pass these with your receiver along with a sub they become more efficient. In other words if they aren't playing the lows, you can turn them up more.
. . . also, with the high pass filter, you cut freqs wherever you set it, usually around 100hz, so nothing below that freq passes into the RB-42, improving lower-mids,and everything up to tweeter xover, as less motion in the 'woofer', improves the mids, the holographic effect.
PLEASE review the Dayton Audio B652 AIR!! I think a lot of people need to know about them and I want to see them in your leaderboard!
I'll see what I can do.
Thanks man, I appreciate it
Completely agree with what you said in the beginning of this vid. Enjoy your content. Cheers bro.
I got the Micca MB42X but would also like some bigger speakers below $200 that could fill a room maybe 5 x 5
I enjoy your videos man keep it up!
Thank you
I plan on it in the near future
The Micca MB42X is a good speaker. Must be away from wall or no bass. Hated to send them back but happier with Neumi BS5. Thumping bass drum.
@Joe N Tell
*I have a recording mastering studio and I am changing my monitor configuration to a 9 speaker surround L/R Configuration. Whereas I will have a single Dayton Audio 15" SUB front and center and my L/R tops will be 4 boxes literally running across the Left wall and the same on the right side - all pointing toward mix position... I had settled on the (x8) FLUANCE SIGNATURE SERIES BOOKSHELF'S for this task... however, I am seeing this MICCA RB42 and i am intrigued to say the less.....*
*Question is,* "which speakers between the Fluance Signature Bookshelves or the Micca RB42 would you personally recommend?"
For recording and mixing/mastering, I don't know that any of these would be my first choice. I would say that the Fluance Signature wouldn't be appropriate because of the dip that I experienced in the treble frequencies. That might change the way you mix.
The Micca RB42's are some of the flattest speakers I've measured nearfield so that I would rather recommend those than the Fluance for your purposes.
I would also take a look at dedicated studio monitors like those from JBL or Yamaha. They are designed for nearfield use.
I'm also reviewing some Vanatoo Transparent One Encore powered speakers that also measure well and perform well nearfield.
, I love Micca products.
I have the Dayton MK42s at my job on my work bench with the Micca amp
@50 wpc with a sub out.
to a Dayton amp @75 wpc to a 10 inch sub.
I may purchase a pair of these .
all my equipment is running off of a simple Sony portable CD/radio player thru the headphone output.
Can you please do a comparison between the RB42 and Pioneer BS22-LR?
I'm sure he'll say the RB42 is better even though it's not - all these YT reviewers seem to be in Micca's pocket.
I bet you've never heard the RB42's. There are better speakers, but we're talking under $150 for the pair. What are you talking about?
@@joentell Since you have compared the BS22-LR to other speakers, would be great if you can compare it to the RB42 as well. I think, your sound test comparisons where the music alternates between the 2 speakers should give us all a good idea as to which of the two speakers is better.
@@joentell And yeah, they have a better/tighter bass response but that's irrelevant with a sub, which is what should be used with either speaker.
Great review. It let me make an educated decision on desktop speakers. Going with different speakers.
I was planning on getting these or the MB42X for my garage speakers, currently planning to build. 24'x24' with 10' ceilings. It's a 2 car plus with home gym. Workshop and gym will get used quite a bit. Powering with my Onkyo TX-NR737 that I retired from my basement theater room.
RB42 all the way unless you're planning on using a sub with the MB42X.
@@joentell Haha! Yeah. I would have a reason to buy and try a Rythmik servo controlled sub in my living room and the BIC PL-200 would go to the garage. Probably gonna buy 2 pairs of bookshelves and run in Multi-channel stereo.
That wouldn't be the worst idea. Let me now what you end up doing.
@@joentell I forgot about the NHT SuperOne 2.1 2-Way Bookshelf speakers. They have a 6.5" woofer and are sealed. I have their SuperZero 4" version as my front height channels in my basement theater and they are great. Do you have any experience with the NHT speakers? Built in threaded mounting holes, ready to go on the wall or ceiling.
I would like your opinion on using the Yamaha WXA-50. Would these speakers be a good match for this amp?
What amp would you recommend for the RB42's?
Speaker Leader board needs to add in wall and ceiling speakers, do you have a review for the Micca in-wall and ceiling speakers?
How does these micca rb42x compare to Boston acoustic satellites micro 120x older speakers compare.
Classy review. I like your style. Thumbs up!
My crappy computer speakers are failing so I am thinking of upgrading to these Micca RB42s (without a sub). Thanks for the review. Wish I got them off Amazon for $130 it is up to $150 now : (
So why has Fluance discontinued ai60 speakers? Now they only sell bad bookshelf speakers that don't go lower than 60 hz for far higher price?? Makes no sense to stop selling good speakers?
Great detail great video
, FYI, the vanatoos are not passive, they are an amplified monitor, caint compair those with these speakers. a more comparison would be between the Q3020i.
also, the Fluance ai60s are also amplified and are a monitor, caint compair those either
I will make a new column for powered speakers
How do you think these would do compared to the PE overnight sensations in a small room with about 50 watts RMS going to each.
LOL I had a red 2 door turbo charged Mazda 626. May not have been a good car but I loved it.
Question: How do these or any of the newer product for less than $500 compare to the original or "updated" NHT Superzero or Superone bookshelf speakers? I've got both (original versions) and love them when used with a sealed subwoofer or two, but before I part with my money, I would like to be convinced that what is available today is a real upgrade. Any idea? Obviously they won't reproduce the lows as well as the ported cabs but they were intended to be used with subwoofers or, in the case of the Superone, right up against the wall. But do they compare favorably when considering audiophile attributes or has their basic tech met its match? They were both highly regarded back in the day and punched way beyond their price point when it came to sonics above 100 hz. Thanks in advance!
Hey Joe. Try the SMSL sa98 amp.
160 wpc they claim but 100 wpc is more like what it puts out.
I just bought a Yamaha 100 wpc/rms off Amazon 130 bucks. Extremely good Especially for the cost.
Which is better?
Good bass trable
pioneer sp-bs22-lr or micca BR42
Thx for your reviews I would like your opinion re:atmos/dts.x height speakers.
My current setup is a Denon x3400h , Rotel RB-1552 MKII amp on my FR and FL. 4 Elac Uni-fi slims (BSU5),
Centre is a UC5 and my sub is Elac 3010. I dont want to spend a ton on atmos related speakers.
Do you think these Miccas or the mb42x will do the trick? Do they have a wide dispersion tweeter? and could you recommend others so that I can research
your suggestions? Also I would obviously have to mount the speakers to the wall. Thanks in advance. Cheers!
It's so cool the way you think.I'm the same way. I don't have a lot of cash. But I try the best I can with what I got. Stay positive my friend.
Is bookshelf speaker bigger than desktop (computer speaker) ? And is there something bigger than bookshelf but not tower?
Using a 42x center. Is the rb42 center worth the upgrade?
I think the woofer is a Dayton Audio TCP115-8 has really good low frequency response
NHT SuperZero 2.1 needs to be reviewed. I would say they are right up there with these fine speakers.
Did you comment on my IG also? Or was that someone else? They said the same thing.
@@joentell No I didn't. I don't do Instagram. Are you anywhere near NJ? I would gladly lend you mine to test.
@@mikedinno8413 I appreciate the offer. I'm in California
So i need a pretty powerful dac/amp combo to drive in order to get the most of it? Do you think the schiit will do the work? Like magni and modi ? Thx
Great video. For my taste, I think the highs are missing. The overall sound is a bit muddy. But for the price, footprint and build quality, these are a great investment and make a great desktop addition.
Vanatoo TO would be a good upgrade for these?
These look like the speaker i have been looking for, a desktop setup for my dad. I would like something small, real small, volume isn't a major concern, stylish and sounds good, he listens to classical, jazz, brass bands and folk. Given these parameters would you say these are the ones to get? Could you recommend anything smaller? I am probably getting the smsl ad18 to drive whatever i end up getting.
I think it would be a terrific setup. Just get some isolation pads on Amazon also to raise them up a bit.
I just bought an SMSL AD-18, Pioneer BS22 LRs, and a Micca MS-10 for 2.1 desk duty. Sounds great, but would I notice a difference if I swapped out the Pioneers for these Miccas?
I own the AD18, Micca MB42X, and the Micca MS10, and it sounds amazing.
Hey Joe N Tell, I buy with your links... What would you say were the Mid and Tweeter differences between the MB42X and the RB42 ??? Were the RB42s more clear? more accurate? Warmer? any differences besides the bump in bass ??
I really appreciate you! The MB42X had significantly less bass. I would say the RB42's are more accurate. The MB42X's had some character with nice vocals. They were very inexpensive also.
@@joentell Thanks! used the link, Ordered the RB42's. I appreciate your research and info!!!
@@JetSetBaroni Let me know what you think of them.
Hi Joe, may i ask why you haven't reviewed the Audioengine A5+ or any Audioengine speakers?
Really great review.
I love yours speakers leaderboard. Nice job. Can you help me. Am I hesitating between the Micca RB42 or the EDIFIER R1700BT? I would use them via a PC and an integrated sound card on the motherboard. And they would be used for music, movies and video games... TNX :)
Is there a matching Center to this one or should I just get the older version ?
The bridged 1.5 ohm resistor make little difference to the dB of tweeter
I'm a complete noob here, but will the JDSlabs Element II be enough to power a pair of the RB42's?
Would these be enough speaker for height surround speakers in a 5.1.4 system?
Great review mate. One question: did you paint your mb42x's white? If so, is there a video for that? I've been mulling over the idea of painting my set a matte red!
Thanks! I'm glad you enjoyed it. I did paint my MB42X. I didn't make a video, but I took photos: m.imgur.com/a/BHHvn
@@joentell very cool, thanks for sharing man.
And who shall post their review of the RB-42-C first, Joe or Zeos? 👍😉
Probably not me! 😂
@@joentell I see now. The photo you posted is of the "OoO". 😮 😮 😮
Looking forward to that review too!
I have a fellow moderator at reddit.com/r/budgetaudiophile who has the RB-42-C in for review. He said they don't play as deep as the original RB-42 despite having two woofers.
@@joentell Oh wow, that's interesting. I wonder if they're cancelling each other at some frequencies.
Would a mid level AVR be able to power these sufficiently in stereo?
What crossover setting wood you recommend for the RB42? 80hz, lower or higher?
Hey man! Question for you, how do you think these would pair with the Andrew Jones Pioneer front stage (fs52 and c22) if you use these as Rears? The fact that these are so small would make it easier to use as rears especially for the wife Factor
Has anyone actually tried the crossover mod? I've looked for days but nobody even brings it up
they have no stock , is there is better speaker now days after 2 years? hope there is
Hi Joe. Great video as always. Do you have any thoughts on the Sony SSCS5 3-Way Bookshelf Speaker? I've heard good things about the sound stage and the detail and clarity at all volumes. I would have thought this speaker would have a place on your under 200 list. Any thoughts? Thanks!
I've heard good things. Haven't tried them though.
Great videos dude 👍
Looking to buy some beginner audio stuff.
Would these pair nicely with the Topping MX3? I’d be using them for my desk setup, Xb1X and PC. Music, movies/shows, and some gaming.
What I’ve been looking at for my needs is:
•FX Audio dac X6 & Smsl sa50 amp paired with the rb42’s
OR
•the Topping MX3 and the rb42’s.
OR
•the fx Audio dac X6 paired with the pb42x’s.
I am a complete novice and would like some help/advice with this stuff, if possible.
I’d like to control the volume from the dac/amp. My sources are spidf (console) and usb(pc).
This was my thought, but the MX3 is listed as 40wpc, so I'm not sure it could push them enough. Haven't tested, though. SMSL AD18 is listed at 80wpc, which is why I think Joe recommended that one.
Those vs the OoOs? Amp is a Fosi TB10D just 2.0 channels. And what cables should I use for those strange connectors on the back? Are they RCA? Thanks
There are better low cost speakers available now. What is this for?
@@joentell What would be those speakers now? And how can i watch your more recent videos? Thank You.
@@hipidipi20157max you can see SpeakerLeaderboard.com to see some other speakers I've reviewed.
Can i use them as a satellite speaker fro my sony HT iv300?
I just got a set of jamo s805 which have the same drivers as the s803 but with a bigger enclosure. How would I go about determining if my new speakers have some of the quality issues that you saw with your s803's? I saw you had complaints about a low frequency resonance in one speaker but not the other, was that it?
If you play an online test tone generator, just run some sweeps at relatively loud volume, and see if you hear any weird noises.
@@joentell Thanks! I appreciate all of your content in trying to figure things out when just starting out in this HiFi space.
You're welcome. This is the one I like to use: www.szynalski.com/tone-generator/
you can put a blanket on desk and flip them upsite-down
Great video. Sucks I can't get these in Australia unless I pay a hefty premium for shipping. Can't get many speakers in fact...
Yikes
The MB42 can be bought on Aust Amazon, Polk T15, Dayton can be bought on Parts Express
Thanks Joe for another great review. Do you have a plan to review that SVS Prime Soundbase I saw on the video? if not could you give me some thought about it? I'm thinking to get either SVS Prime soundbase or PS Sprout100 and pair it with my Elac Debut 2.0 B6.2 for my small living room.
Thanks,
It's definitely more than powerful enough to drive the B6.2's. It is exclusively controlled with the app so dedicated remote for volume and input control. That's my main gripe. I haven't tried out the Sprout 100.
Cool stuff! I only own 1 pair of speakers and want to buy more, although I feel if I buy more i'll never be able to stop haha :) I want one of those mini tube amps you looked at in a previous video, just for the coolness factor.
I have 3 of those tube buffers and many speakers now!
Joe N Tell
I hope Martin Logan emails you soon. The motion 15’s are a strange speaker. The frequency response is only down to 70hz. Maybe because they want it to be paired with a sub? Only going to 70 hz allows the speakers to be powered with less powerful amps for sure, and lets them get louder as well but they definitely don’t shake the house.
On what?
What would you recommend for basic listening and some gaming for a desk setup that has Bluetooth support for connecting via phone? Have been looking fo a while but couldn't make a decision
I’m using an SMSL AD-18, Pioneer BS22LR, and a Micca MS10 sub. It’s a gaming/media PC system.
@@PRamsey77 I live in a dorm so a sub is not practical for me thats the problem
Oh, you could leave the sub out and still be happy. The SMSL AD-18 is an awesome piece of gear. Watch Joe’s review of it.
@@PRamsey77 Alright thanks
These Micca RB42's will likely produce more than enough bass and get more than loud enough for a typical dorm room. No need for a sub. That's the ideal use case for these.
Hey Joe, great review! I just received my RB42's a few days ago. I really didn't need the speakers, I just really wanted to hear them. LOL. I'm actually looking for a pair of speakers for my son's bedroom. I said he could have these ones, but he's not very happy with them. Damn kid is 13 and thinks he knows everything. LOL. My question to you is he really wants the fluance sx6, how would you compare the two? He likes bassy music, I guess you could call it rap music. He will be getting a small sub too, he wants to buy the 10" Polk sub, I think it's the PSW10. Anyways would the Fluance be an upgrade from the Micca's? He has a Sony 590 receiver. Thanks man.
Hello Mr.Joe, why don't you test budget amplifiers and make a review. Kindly consider reviewing Fosi Audio and Aiyima sub 100$ amps please! 🎶🙏🏼
It's tough without a way to measure the differences. I like to have data to back up what I say.
How is the bass compare to very expensive speaker like Dynaudio in same size? Seams the woofer looks more than it is.
I don't know that's a fair comparison because of price but also because I believe Dynaudio uses larger drivers in a larger enclosure.
@@joentell I understand you but the woofer on Micca looks over kill, so why not compare with Dynaudio focus 110 or BM6A for example. Anyway you do a create job 👍
Yo thank you for the information that you always share with people on UA-cam. Question for you. I have a parasound hca 1000 a stereo amplifier. These amplifier have four bad capacitors, each of them has 10000 UF my question is can I install capacitor with higher values or I have to stick with the same values.
I have a micca origen g2 and I would like to use those with it. Is it possible? Can I plug both speakers to the 3.5mm aux jack on the amp? Thanks.
The Micca OriGen G2 is a DAC and Pre Amplifier, not an amplifier. It has enough power to drive a pair of headphones, but not enough to drive a pair of speakers. You will need an amplifier with two channels - such as the SMSL SA-98. There are tons and tons of amplifiers available, you don't have to buy that specific amplifier. But you do need an amplifier.
You can plug the Micca OriGen G2 DAC into the amplifier and use it as a source.
Are you reviewing the NHT Superzero anytime soon??
No plans to be honest
Hey, are the SVS Primes much better than this?
Have you make a Dayton um 18 with a Behringer 3k, tuned to something low like 15 hz, it will shake your entire neighborhood block.
I just got these on 11/24/24 used on Amazon for $50. Would these be at the top of your list at $50?
For sure it would be up there! The amount of bass they have is hilarious for their size.
Are the RB42's good for surround sound? Looking to buy 4 total for my home theater. Thanks!
Must buy .....
Micca MB42X ...... 4 quantity
And 8 - 10 inch subwoofer .....
........
RB 42 has bass ..... I like it ..... But ....when u put more volume on that .. RB42's Xmax cross easy and gets rattling sound ( this is law of physics ) ... U not able to put high volume on RB 42 ....
................
Main benifit of MB 42x is .....
1) price is less than RB 42 .... Which is u able to get subwoofer for MB42X 😎
2) when u play louder on MB42X .... Which direct benifit on theirs MID range performance than RB 42 ... Especially when u play EDM music on it 👍
3) when u pair with subwoofer with MB42X ...... U will get all rounder performance than RB 42
4) RB 42 is limited to ... Near field / high watt need / not versatile /
......................
......................
My recommendation to get this pair ...
MB42X ....... For RL + SRL ... 4 quantity
MB42X-c ....... For center
8 - 10 inch subwoofer / woofer
Frequency reng between ( 30 hz - 1k hz ) .... For better mid base punch 👍👍👍👍
Edifier 1280 db or Edifier 1700BT or Micca RB42 which one is good
Been watching tons of videos for a budget desktop PC setup. Your channel is my favorite I have come across by far. Is the SMSL AD18 Amp still your recommended amp for these speakers? It will only be connected to my PC and used for volume control. Also might drive some higher end headphones down the road.
It is!
Oh man. Was about to order for cheapy home theater use. Then I realized the rear port. I need something for wall mount. Maybe the Sony CS bookshelf speakers afterall.
Jamo?
@@joentell I'll take a look.
They're back in stock at Amazon.com!
What! Thanks for the heads up!
@@joentell The price jumped $20 but still a good value.
MB42X vs MB42XC (On End MTM) as Stereo/Main Speakers ?
I would do it. The RB42's have way more bass, but it's less crucial if you have a sub.