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Andrew can the CXA81 drive speakers like Monitor Audio Silver 300 ? It has less power than the AXR100 but the AXR100 doesn't have Pre Out so you can't connect another amp to it ? whereas the CXA81 does have a Pre Amp out. It's just that Cambridge doesn't make another affordable amp or power amp to boost the CXA81 with extra power. Can you direct me some help with this. Please Andrew ?
That’s the kind of video your followers might want to see more. As an audiophile and high end audio businessman with more than 4 decades of experience from Tehran Iran; it’s always nice and satisfying to guide my clients and therefore their hard earned money 💰 to a budget based mixed brands system building and watching the smile on their faces the moment they listen 👂 to what their money bought for them. It takes passion and patience to get there but it’s definitely worth it because one will end up having a loyal clientele that won’t stop recommending yours truly to their friends. Of course other clients with bigger budget will as well benefit from this method. It’s all about keeping people in one’s mind and making them happy 😃. Thanks 🙏🏼 Andrew and Kristi. ❤❤
It's pretty refreshing to hear these words from a Audiophiles mouth, because to tell you the Truth I'm pretty Sick and Tired of the Normal Audiophiles that Scoff at Equipment such as this ! Thank You and Keep it Real! Audiophiles come in ALL INCOME RANGES and Deserve Respect just as the Audiophiles and their 350 K Systems----
I agree totally. I have two complete systems One in over 15k. The other is under 2500. Both have there place, Both sound great... Real good. Yes the higher dollar has different dynamics and details. But you'd almost never know, unless you were standing in front of both comparing.
And therein lies the rub as they say, unless you're A/B-ing them directly, our aural memory will go with the flow --money be darned. Appreciate you sharing!
I really like it when reviewers do these full system builds. It can be daunting especially for begginers how many options there are. I really think you should do more at different price points or with different goals i.e. TV based streaming, vinyl focused or system for bassheads.
My ladyfriend wanted a vinyl rig for her place, so I got her an RT-85, paired with an NAD 3045 and my hand-me-down Cambridge Audio SX-60s. That inspired me to do some eBaying for a small two-channel for our parlor, a Pro-ject T1, an Elac EA101, and a 2.1 Kanto kit. Keep this kind of content coming! ✌️
Love the recommendations for new gear. In this price range I would lean towards a tier higher gear that is second hand but obviously that is buyer beware. Love all you guys do!
Thank you for reigniting my love of HIFI, you two create inteligent watchable content and your constant remidner that the only one who has to be happy with the sound is us, is so right, and in many ways is repeated in Kristi's comments today!
That's a cool setup Andrew, thanks for sharing this. I enjoy the reviews of the high end gear even knowing I wouldn't spend that much on a system. That gear doesn't diminish the joy of my Cinema 60 / Def-Tech system. I have no worries living vicariously through the gear you get to play with. 👍
I think you are right when you don't need a 10k set to enjoy music, mine is not even half that but with every CD/TVserie/film I put on I have a BIG smile on my face. And among the things I really love that I use are the Concept 50's that i demoed after your review. Keep up the great work!
Thanks for bringing the topic round again you guys. I dont hear the same thing as other people. It would be crazy to think that my sense of taste is exactly the same as everyone else. So if my setup is just right for me, then thats all that matters. Great video for the budget and keep up the great content!
I love this video and Kristi’s comments were spot on! I am one of those that gets caught up in the whole “pricier has to be better” even though I will never be one to venture into the pricier category. I try to remind myself, when I watch these videos and read my Stereophile magazine, that in the end, what sounds good is up to what I believe sounds good and what is perfect for me. Thank you for everyrhing!!!
I am really hoping they do a video on the Marantz Cinema 70s. To me it looks like the the perfect all-in-one. I currently have a Yamaha A-S501 2ch. integrated amp with my Airplay capable TV connected to via Optical. the DAC on the Yamaha is pretty good, but having to rely on my TV for streaming is problematic. I've been eyeing the EverSolo DMP-A6 as a DAC upgrade and streaming solution. But at the same time I need to add extra HDMI inputs, and the EverSolo is really hard to come by right now. So I think for a couple hundred more I can just pick up the Marantz 70s, and even recoup some of that extra money by selling the Yamaha. #Future-Fi lol
Like the suggestions ! All I would say is get an integrated with a DAC and Phono . The Yamaha AS 300 60w / ch is a good start ! Then Wiim mini streamer into AS 300 DAC, add speakers maybe Klipsch or Elac and you’re on your way ! Super affordable and decent sounding!
Hi Andrew. First off, I want to thank you so much for your incredible videos. I’m still a newbie, if you will for 3 years now, but your videos in particular have been a big part of where I’ve gotten my knowledge from. But I have a big problem. In the past I have seen stereo system speaker’s & how they would move in and out with the sound. I learned the term for it: Extrusion. I built a DIY kit. It’s the CSS Criton 1td. I’ve had them for 2 years and they’ve never had any extrusion. I have seen a review by Tharbamar in which he showcased the same speakers and recorded how they sounded, and how they appeared; once again, those had extrusion taped the playing with sound. They sounded ethereal to me. The speaker extruded like crazy. My speakers won’t extrude. CSS Audio says they are fine as they are. I say they are defective. Terry, one of the owners refuses to send me new woofers first. I have to shoulder and suffer for 2 weeks without while I send them for testing. I have untreatable depression. Beside my wife, HiFi is a lifeline for me. Music is almost everything to me. Plz can you provide feedback about the extrusion problem. I thank you very much in advance. Terry Cain
Really appreciate the support, Terry. In regards to your CSS speakers and how they differ from what you've seen on this other channel, based on what I can gather, it appears the reviewer was playing very bass heavy tracks at extreme volumes in order to find or reach the woofer's maximum travel. If you are not seeing your woofers do this during normal listening, that's actually perfectly normal. What I believe you were seeing in the video was a stress test. I can tell you any of our bookshelf speakers, even when listening at higher volumes, it is rare that we see our woofers move that what I saw in the video I watched. It is my opinion, that your speakers are functioning properly and that you don't need to be anxious about their performance. Now, if when you hear bass notes through your speakers you also hear buzzing or rattling, that is different and that may be a problem that CSS should help you with. If you are hoping to replicate the visuals of a sound demo you witnessed on another channel, I would advise you not to do that.
Nice video. Thank you both. Based on my experience, only 4 elements define the music hearing experience: 1. the music(Genre, quality and mix) 2. speakers 3. room 4. how does the listeners feel / how is the listener impacted by the first 3 elements? Amp is dictated by the speakers and plays no other role and the rest is not important in the experience. The experience of buying Polk Audio R700 taught me a lot and was an eye opening process.
Andrew this was a great video and Kristi's take was SPOT ON!! She did a pure mic drop! That being said. My surround sound system that's hooked up to my LG C1 didnt cost a fortune and I don't care because it sounds great to the wife and I and that's all that matters. If it puts me into the heart of the movie that's all I need.
Something I know you would enjoy; my wife and I previewed the new B&W Signature 800 @ 805's in their nautilus blue. At 50k and 12k dipping into 3ohms I don't see it for myself but they did rock my socks.
Just peeped those in a press release. The blue looks icy!! That price though. LOL...I'm probably missing something, but that's quite the up charge for a different paint job and a crossover! Still, would love to hear the big boy towers!
Quite enjoyed the pacing, custcenes to products (not the meme cuts like spiderman and coke bear, they're quite jarring) and tone throughout this video. Heading in a more polished direction
One of the most interesting parts to me was the comments of Kristi, if you are happy and only like to spend a little money you can have a lot of fun with all the things available on the market. The problem I have found is that you get an upgrade bug quickly and the cheaper components do tend to have a very low resale value. As an example: buy a second hand Naim or PassLabs amp from 2010 and it will still cost at least 50% of the new price, a 10 year old Cambridge would be very cheap. I understand that relatively speaking you are still talking about 1000’s instead of 100’s. I have heard cheaper systems from friends that made me wonder why I put so much money in mine 🙉. Enjoy your music with whatever you have!!!
Nice topic. Can I play? Marantz PM7000n + KEF R3 (not meta) $1800, great sounding combo. Combo 2 : Bluesound Powernode and Q Acoustics 5020 or Revels or Polk R200, can a sub for future upgrade.
And for under $1000. Bluesound Node + Mackie MR624 powered speakers. Mackie's use Class AB amp for nice full sound (not sharp or analytical), can add a sub for future upgrade
Thanks for the very informative video. I was thinking of using an AV receiver instead of the separate audio amp and streamer. Add investing in better speakers like the alternatives you recommended. What av receiver would you suggest?
You seem to be suggesting that having a built-in DAC is a good thing but I was under the impression that better performance can be had from an external DAC. Have I been misled by other reviewers who said that?
It isn't that simple. In general, you can find better performance from separates, but that doesn't mean that all separates will be better than integrated, far from it. If you are working within a restricted budget, you may very well find better value for money with an integrated system than with separates.
@@SylvainDuford I was led to believe that an integrated DAC can interfere with an amp's interior components and cause distortion. And if you have a limited budget Schiit Audio makes some very good affordable DACs right here in the USA.
@@john26262 I am afraid that I have to agree with @SylvainDuford, separate components don't always equal or result in better performance. While separate components CAN definitely result in superior sound, whomever said it was a given or automatic, I believe, misspoke --or at least over simplified things. There are numerous products with integrated DACs that perform very well, and would likely hold up to blind testing against stand alone or separate DACs. Keep in mind, a lot of what people like to tout about separate DACs being "better" sometimes falls outside the scope of human hearing, meaning the improvements can be measured and therefor called "improvements" but can we as human beings here the difference out in the real world, or in a real environment...not likely. So like Sylvain said above, there can be great value in buying products that may already have a built-in DAC versus separates --especially if your setup, equipment or room would negate any single-digit gains you may otherwise experience by going with a separate DAC.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Thank you for your reply Andrew. Maybe I am too much of a nerd but I would prefer a component that tests better on paper whether I can hear the difference or not. But then that's just me. lOL.
Enjoyed the video, thanks for all the work you do. Then a question, based on my situation: I'm in a condo, small to begin with and my front room has a fireplace separating a "living room" and "dining room". Not using the dining room after the first year, this became my "Home Theater" side, and the living room became my computer and audio space. On my desk are Audioengine A2+ speakers connected to my PC, and when I decided on a stereo setup on top of an IKEA bookshelf I got the NAD C700, connected my Audio-Technica BT 120 turntable, and the KEF LS50Meta speakers. It's a good setup, and if in never changes, I'd be fine. But the while not comfortable with "over the top" bass, these speakers and amp seem a little thin, and I've wondered... do I 1) switch the speakers to something more "full range", 2) is the C700 the "weak link" and would upgrading the streaming receiver improve my sound the most? or 3) Would adding an SVS sub, even at low levels so I don't upset my neighbors make the biggest difference? I don't HATE my setup, but I kinda feel like it's missing something. Maybe it's just the tech in me that likes upgrades, but what do those in the chat think?
Your system sounds like a good one. Before you go out and buy new speakers or a subwoofer, check out this video ua-cam.com/video/ObhUaX0PIFc/v-deo.html. My guess is that the problem is with your room, placement or a combination of both. If you are sitting your speakers on the IKEA close to the wall, get them on stands and pull them out into your room. Lastly, if you have nearby neighbors, I would skip the sub for now.
Often there are extreme new tech enthusiasts who buy the latest and greatest stuff and get rid of them a year later (mostly speakers). I would get a decent, used pair. I'm probably not buying anytime soon, but if I had to , I'd look at QA concept 30 and the Elac discovery integrated amp (idk whats the name). integrated amps are just so much easier...probably we could have a review on the Elac amp, andrew ¿ it looks enticing and stores here don't have it in the showroom. edit: just remembered, audiolab's play series is a good solution too. network+amp all in one just like the elac, just a bit more expensive
Vintage would’ve been a better way to go and any other way is stupid! Just kidding of course. Great options here and I have had the AXA-25 amp. Great sounding little amp but it didn’t quite suit my needs after some time. Hopefully the hobby can eventually unite but unfortunately human nature keeps creating division in many aspects.
Have a question, i am looking to start to build a hometheater set-up for movies,gaming and music all equal use, should i buy a receiver first then speakers? The arendale has my attention for speakers but want a future proof receiver for maybe future speakers, looking to do 2.1 or 5.1 or maybe 7.1 no further than that, any advice would help or recommendations for speakers, receiver etc. I also like the realistic sound not fatiguing im new to this audio stuff.
@robinsonbrand, thank you for the speedy response. It is much appreciated. And being helpful, appreciate you and kristi and your channel. Keep up the good work as always.
No, there are no receivers in these systems for home theater surround, but that doesn't mean you can't still have a great experience watching TV and movies.
I wish reviewers would just happily test equipment at various price points and let the audience make their own decisions about the value and diminishing return propositions. As a guy with a graduate degree in economics, I can tell you those questions are actually very difficult to answer. Especially for a luxury product. Which All of this equipment most assuredly is. It also puts reviewers in a bad spot. What are you supposed to say, hey the 93% of you spending $500 for these vinyl wrapped speakers are doing as well as these hand made speakers from Denmark. That ain't how you get 300k members.
A speaker that is front ported or sealed will help with close to the wall placement. 2 options would be-- Front ported: bit.ly/3QlTiCR Sealed: bit.ly/3A3VGqH
@@bennickerson9581 Those are just examples. You can do some research on your own looking for the types of speakers I proposed. If budget is the hurdle, I would consider going with bit.ly/3F8GhaR. It's more placement friendly and sounds great. We reviewed it on the channel if you are interested in knowing more.
The Revels come with a rear port plug, so you technically you can push them closer to the front wall with out bass gain/blooming. I would add sub with these speakers either way - port plugged or not...
I feel you guys strike a balance between cost, looks and performance that few reviewers take into consideration! The one thing I'd change in that system is instead of Cambridge streamer id go with the wiim pro or mini (dependant upon needs) and perhaps I'd put more cash into the speakers or amp. In my mind you can always change out dacs and streamers etc but the speakers and the amp are really a foundation you want to stick with for the long haul!
I strongly agree in certain cases. Is it better to have the more expensive thing? Yes, but in the walk of life is that one thing going to leave you financially disabled?. Unfortunately this world has always been built on looking down at the poor and looking up to the rich just because I can't afford my dream speakers and I have all budget gear. It doesn't mean that the person that has those speakers are better than me. I argue this all the time with my buddies. I have a 15-year-old Lexus. She's clean. She rides smooth as shea butter.. and to me she's still at work of art. It's a timeless look that Lexus came out with that I love. There's no need for me to start another car payment just so that people look at me as if I have it. Could I afford a new one? Of course I can. I make six figures a year. I kill myself to make that money. My job isn't easy but I don't need it and I enjoy my sound system just the way it is and I enjoy every movie i watch physical media of course😂 I hope that one day maybe in the future we can all just get along and maybe that rich guy that has the high-fi equipment should come to a person like me who has budget equipment and they might be blown away just by how it sounds how it set up and everything. Anyways, I'm done rambling nobody's. Probably really going to finish reading this comment. Much love to both of you. I will see you on Sunday
Ahhhh hahaha I remember those fleecings at the "Marine store".. everything marine rated. Here's a small bag of marine grade stainless steel bolts (that still rust to hell in salt water)... $85
100% agree with Kristi on this one here!!! The fun part of the hobby is creating different experiences of the music or movies you like. My dad tought me from very young. So now i mix and match components to change the sound because that is what is fun. Swithcing between my Revel F206(3500$) and my Dali Zensor 7 (700$) and putting an old 600$ Denon preamp in front of my Mark Levinson 5805 (8500 $) just to have tone controls and a "Different" sound - that is what it is all about - Great video.... Absolutely love it!!
Very enjoyable and professional video. Kristi makes a huge point! Always judge a system on its musical presentation and personal enjoyment level, not the price tag. Long live hi fi!
I think the gear is something you need to grow on. Iam only starting my HiFi journey and I don’t think I would be able to actually hear too much differences between a 2k and 20k rig. Thx for being so informative and educational
I really like how the hole point of the video wasn’t to do a A B comparison between an expensive rig and a cheap one, just a good sounding one suggestion. Very nice video.
We hope everyone is enjoying their week so far! Who's excited for the weekend? Any fun plans for the Fourth? One last thing! Be sure to check out the post review discussion! What are your thoughts??
Going to my Uncle's mountain home so 9,000+ft for a day or two lol. Had no music for 3 days and was going up the wall so I have been going nuts with the music.
I would go... Amp: Cambridge AXR100 £450 Streamer: Wiim Mini £80 Speakers: Q Acoustics 3030i £250 Great system for less than £800 (so less than $1000 I guess) 👍👍👍
The price tag vs. value discussion for audio components is fascinating to me. I've been struggling with this as I try to set up a couple of different systems for my new house. The challenge I face is that, in the absence of an ability to actually listen and judge the quality of audio systems, I have to use price tag as an indicator of product quality. Reviews like yours help add a dimension to the assessment, but it's still very hard to determine the best purchase, if you've never actually been able to hear the gear.
This is in response to the incredibly well said discussion at the end. I fell into the hifi world by originally looking for a good pair of cheap wireless earbuds. Six years later and I have a couple of headphone systems and stereo systems. I will say that I am not rich so I am always looking for a bang for the buck deal. That being said this is about my two headphone systems. My main system with the headphones included is around $1,800 and I love it. It takes me away and fills me with joy when I listen to it. My budget system, hooked up to my desk top is around $350. I just recently added a Schiit Loki and got the system sounding amazing. As good as my main system, no way. But If I had never built my main system and only built my budget one, I have no doubt I would experience the same amount of joy. I don’t think you measure joy with money. Money can make finding joy easier but I don’t think it is exact quotient. I love when you too get into this part of the hobby. You both rock and thank you for making the hobby a better experience.
Another beautiful presentation! Owned KEF R500 loudspeakers for years. Had an old PIONEER amplifier and wanted to save some money for a decent amplifier for my KEF's. Always thought a HEGEL amplifier was the best combination for these speakers. Then, after a comparison in the same store, have chosen CAMBRIDGE AUDIO CX SERIES. Every favorite song sounded much better with the CX-A81 than with the HEGEL 120 or even the 190! The CXN-V2 is a wonderful DAC for me and the CXC plays my large collection of CDs beautifully. I have been using SONOS for years in the other rooms of my home. To switch to BLUSOUND which is better is too expensive for me. So stick with SONOS. But my SONOS PORT sounds much better through my CXN-V2! I am extremely satisfied with my CAMBRIDGE CX set to really listen to music.
Absolutely LOVE Kristi's perspective on these.... Frankly, a HUGE VALUE ADD ! At the end of the day, only you can decide how much you want to spend on this hobby and be satisfied with it... It's the free market at work...
Hey!! This video was the bomb! 🔥💣. I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed it! You provided great, practical insights that the "blue-collar audiophile" can appreciate. (No, your system does not need to be $25,000.) More videos like this please 😁. ❤️. By the way, great editing work!
Thank you Kristi & Andrew. More for the talk afterwards. This is how I feel about Hifi and UA-cam Reviews. Just enjoy what you have and don´t pick on others who do not share your opinion and STOP being nasty in the comments. :-) Thank you.
Thanks for another solid video. I deeply appreciate the discussion, inspired by Kristi, at the end. Your channel draws the audiophiles but your tag line, to me, represents those of us who are music lovers first. I want a system that allows me to hear detailed, balanced music that seems natural and is not fatiguing. Thanks for pointing out what is possible along the price point continuum.
Couldn't agree more with the discussion about people 'taking sides'. The analogy to photography, especially because of the sense that the market is shrinking is right on-point.
The NAD D3020 is a great little amp and it pairs well with a number of affordable speakers, such as the Elac B6’s. That plus a Wiim pro streamer and you’re all in under $1000. The NAD has the advantage of having a subwoofer output, so a 2.1 system is easily reachable under $1500.
For someone who really loves music, there's enjoyment in a million dollar system and there's enjoyment in a single dash-speaker mono AM radio. If you love the music you're hearing, it takes you somewhere. Sometimes the system guides where it takes you. Hearing tinny mono country-western takes me back to listening to George Jones with my dad when I was a kid. Listening to Fleetwood Mac on a million dollar system reminds me of the control room and console where they recorded the track (I've recorded there, nowhere near The Chain). There's something to enjoy in every system. If you love music, and not just the equipment, you'll find that thing.
Good video and an interesting conversation starter. So many product categories -- hifi, watches, autos, whiskey, clothing...you name it -- have taken the notion of luxury goods / experience to an extreme where the brands are intentionally pursuing a smaller pool of buyers who have the means to spend without limits rather than a mass market. I believe that on a macro level it's a reflection of the growing income disparity / concentration of wealth in our economy, but whatever the reason, so many things are becoming segmenteed in a way that only the most fortunate can afford to participate in new products. As we have become more tribal as a society, we've also become a lot nastier towards the other group, no matter which end of the spectrum one might represent.
Bravo on the hifi expense comments. I even get tired of ratios amps should be such a percentage of speaker. Synergy for the money you are willing to budget and prioritizing the origin country of said products is more how I look at it. I prefer to avoid chifi but the Eversolo is very tempting. I went Bluesound over the Eversolo for my streamer as I prefer to send the money to Canada if possible.
My set is a Marantz PM6006 UK Edition, a Chromecast Audio and a pair of Dynaudio Emit 10's. A great listen. I like Moon and ATC but I'm enjoying myself.
Enjoyed Kristi's take (agreeing with the wife is the key to a long and happy life ) .....as an older guy (cough) I think internet forums have exacerbated the "heat" and produce a signal to noise ratio I can only describe as dismaying. In earlier years you had to go the the letters column of a magazine to witness the shootouts so it was easier to avoid. As a photography enthusiast I see the same vitriol with gear choices....if you shoot Fujifilm (as I do) you are definitely on the outer.....bottom line : we have different musical tastes, different budgets, different rooms and different *hearing*....I've just retired, upgraded my system to Pro-ject/Rotel/Rotel/Dynaudio and am very happy with the setup which will do me for (??) years.....I can happily listen to someone else's system who has different criteria to me, I get why they made their choice and it doesn't bother me....and yeah, it's really that simple ....cheers from OZ :-)
Great video! Appreciate the dac comments-it’s exhausting, kind of like the cable debate. For me, part of the fun is getting great sound at minimal cost. However, I still keep the Q acoustic 3030i’s in play. Fun speaker.
I always like these videos so well done. Mine is Cambridge AXR100, Emovtiva Tzero+ towers with a Kanto sub 8. PS none of it required two hundred hours of burn in 😂.
Naim has always been a maker of high-end products, I used to own a Naim CD3 back in the mid 90's. Fantastic CD player. But over a grand for an effin cable? Come on. What is that???
Glad you guys mentioned the AXR100. While I often think I’d like to upgrade at some point, my AXR100 has a feature I’ve become addicted to… tone controls that can be accessed with the REMOTE CONTROL! Being able to adjust tone on the fly from my listening chair is a game changer! The Heaven 11 Billie amp I’m looking at doesn’t have tone controls at all. Now I can add a Schitt tone control but… no remote. So, I’m sticking with what I got till I can figure out a workaround.
THANKS☝I am curious that the 2 main music sources that I use are: 1. FM Radio - sound quality is better than DAB. My automatic choice is to listen to BBC Radio 3 until 9am and again after meeting at 9.30am 2. CD - over the last 30 (or 40?) years I have built up my music library with 1,000s of CDs. Some music only once but say Mahler - about 5 cycles of his symphonies - still collecting......... Your system doesn't seem to handle either?? Do no other hi-fi enthusiasts listen to the radio or their carefully built up library?☝
I do listen to FM radio when I do not bother what piece of music Ishall load next in my cd player;saying that means I do STILL collect cds and my collection of 1660+ cds is growing , 6of ordered cds are about to reach my house this week:)
"Specs don't tell the whole story" so glad to hear you say that and recommend a 25W per channel amp. So many people are obsessed with power. I have three systems in my home doing different jobs in different rooms. The one I enjoy the sound of most is a twenty-something year old marantz PM4200 (35W per channel) with Tannoy M1 speakers.
Agree 100% with you both. Audio and what is perceived “better” is something very personal and there simply isn’t a right or wrong and it’s definitely not dictated by price, brand image or marketing but by how it makes YOU feel.
Cambridge Audio MXN10, BasX TA1 and Transpuls 1500...the higher sensitivity and frequency response of the Transpuls makes the 100wpc of the amp very usable, and you don't need to invest in a sub...great I/O flexibility and still within the budget (barely...lol)
Totally agree with your perspective that each side needs to respect each other and not be envious or judgmental due to their gear. I have been listening to music since I was a kid and noticed that, you can enjoy music and the experience of cranking it up, and be completely happy… until you hear something better, LOL! Right now, I am perfectly happy cranking the SMSL AO 200 paired with the DO 200 MK II and the Jamo Concert 9 Series C 93 ii and matching 10” subwoofer at 75-85 decibels. I realize, that there is always something that sounds better. You have to decide when to stop and be happy with your gear for a while and not be compelled to keep buying the next shiny thing (hard to do). I would love to try out different speakers, DACs, and amplifiers, but at some point, I just need to be happy with what I have. Now, if I won the lottery, we’ll, then I would really consider more expensive alternatives!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews I do love seeing and watching reviews of high-end gear. I just wish their was a place to go and just get a sense of what a true high-end system sounds like. Of course, that might be a double-edged sword. I will never forget hearing a demo of the B&O Beolab 8000 back in the early 90’s at an Audio Advice store. I was just blown away!
Kristi and Andrew - I love you guys !!!! You hit the nail on the head in your "wrap up". I am sooooo happy and soooo satisfied with my $1200 system (and that includes my 4K TV for home theater....not just music listening). $600 for two 2nd gen Apple HomePods (gets me not only stereo...but Dolby Atmos entertainment) $129 for Apple TV 4K streaming box & lastly $500 for a 65" LG 4K UHD TV....all totaling $1200+...for everything...INCLUDING THE TV ! I love it and my wife loves it.....would I commit murder to get a B&O A9 for $3600? Hell yeah I would.....but I have a family to support and like you guys....a life outside of music listening and movie watching. All in all......I couldn't be happier with my HomePods. Thank you for all your efforts to bring sanity into this hobby. I love you guys !!!!
Couldn’t agree more! The whole world of music enjoyment is too easily lost if we turn it into a d*ck measuring exercise over who has the ‘best’ gear. As you have pointed out before too: you may have the pricey gear, but have you got a crappy room?! Good room and enjoyable gear >>> High end sitting in a marble box….
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My initial impression was that you would need more efficient speakers with the AXA 25. Interesting to learn that isn't necessarily so. Cool.
Andrew can the CXA81 drive speakers like Monitor Audio Silver 300 ? It has less power than the AXR100 but the AXR100 doesn't have Pre Out so you can't connect another amp to it ? whereas the CXA81 does have a Pre Amp out. It's just that Cambridge doesn't make another affordable amp or power amp to boost the CXA81 with extra power. Can you direct me some help with this. Please Andrew ?
That’s the kind of video your followers might want to see more. As an audiophile and high end audio businessman with more than 4 decades of experience from Tehran Iran; it’s always nice and satisfying to guide my clients and therefore their hard earned money 💰 to a budget based mixed brands system building and watching the smile on their faces the moment they listen 👂 to what their money bought for them. It takes passion and patience to get there but it’s definitely worth it because one will end up having a loyal clientele that won’t stop recommending yours truly to their friends. Of course other clients with bigger budget will as well benefit from this method. It’s all about keeping people in one’s mind and making them happy 😃. Thanks 🙏🏼 Andrew and Kristi. ❤❤
thank you sir for your post. That is very reassuring. Your hard work is much appreciated.
👍👍👍
It's pretty refreshing to hear these words from a Audiophiles mouth, because to tell you the Truth I'm pretty Sick and Tired of the Normal Audiophiles that Scoff at Equipment such as this ! Thank You and Keep it Real! Audiophiles come in ALL INCOME RANGES and Deserve Respect just as the Audiophiles and their 350 K Systems----
I agree totally. I have two complete systems One in over 15k.
The other is under 2500.
Both have there place, Both sound great... Real good. Yes the higher dollar has different dynamics and details. But you'd almost never know, unless you were standing in front of both comparing.
And therein lies the rub as they say, unless you're A/B-ing them directly, our aural memory will go with the flow --money be darned. Appreciate you sharing!
I really like it when reviewers do these full system builds. It can be daunting especially for begginers how many options there are. I really think you should do more at different price points or with different goals i.e. TV based streaming, vinyl focused or system for bassheads.
Noted!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews how do you typically budget split between electronics and speakers?
My ladyfriend wanted a vinyl rig for her place, so I got her an RT-85, paired with an NAD 3045 and my hand-me-down Cambridge Audio SX-60s. That inspired me to do some eBaying for a small two-channel for our parlor, a Pro-ject T1, an Elac EA101, and a 2.1 Kanto kit.
Keep this kind of content coming! ✌️
All I can say is thank you. The blue collar audiophile, like me applaud you for this outstanding review. Greatly appreciated.
Some great commentary. In the end it's about the enjoyment of the music...no matter what the price of your gear.
Once again, Kristi and Andrew are doing their level best to save this wonderful hobby.
😇
Love the recommendations for new gear. In this price range I would lean towards a tier higher gear that is second hand but obviously that is buyer beware. Love all you guys do!
Best video you two have done
Thank you for reigniting my love of HIFI, you two create inteligent watchable content and your constant remidner that the only one who has to be happy with the sound is us, is so right, and in many ways is repeated in Kristi's comments today!
Yes yes Kristi
And Andrew you guys have always said it's what makes Y O U happy... For what ever reason ;-D
That's a cool setup Andrew, thanks for sharing this.
I enjoy the reviews of the high end gear even knowing I wouldn't spend that much on a system. That gear doesn't diminish the joy of my Cinema 60 / Def-Tech system. I have no worries living vicariously through the gear you get to play with. 👍
Thanks for joining us!
Awesome video and the recommendations are much appreciated by people who are looking to purchase an audio setup.
I think you are right when you don't need a 10k set to enjoy music, mine is not even half that but with every CD/TVserie/film I put on I have a BIG smile on my face. And among the things I really love that I use are the Concept 50's that i demoed after your review. Keep up the great work!
Onkyo A-9010 (now A-9110) + ELAC UF52 👌
Love your videos und your vibe!
Thanks for bringing the topic round again you guys. I dont hear the same thing as other people. It would be crazy to think that my sense of taste is exactly the same as everyone else. So if my setup is just right for me, then thats all that matters. Great video for the budget and keep up the great content!
I love this video and Kristi’s comments were spot on! I am one of those that gets caught up in the whole “pricier has to be better” even though I will never be one to venture into the pricier category. I try to remind myself, when I watch these videos and read my Stereophile magazine, that in the end, what sounds good is up to what I believe sounds good and what is perfect for me. Thank you for everyrhing!!!
I love the spider-man plug.
👍
I tend to like all-in-one solutions. My combo today would be:
Marantz CINEMA 70s + Revel M16
I think it opens a lot of possibilities
I am really hoping they do a video on the Marantz Cinema 70s. To me it looks like the the perfect all-in-one. I currently have a Yamaha A-S501 2ch. integrated amp with my Airplay capable TV connected to via Optical. the DAC on the Yamaha is pretty good, but having to rely on my TV for streaming is problematic. I've been eyeing the EverSolo DMP-A6 as a DAC upgrade and streaming solution. But at the same time I need to add extra HDMI inputs, and the EverSolo is really hard to come by right now. So I think for a couple hundred more I can just pick up the Marantz 70s, and even recoup some of that extra money by selling the Yamaha. #Future-Fi lol
Cambridge AXA25 rocks with the Acoustic Energy AE109 Mk2. You get the heft and scintillating highs that blew me away!
I’m glad there’s more!
Thanks for joining us!
Like the suggestions ! All I would say is get an integrated with a DAC and Phono . The Yamaha AS 300 60w / ch is a good start ! Then Wiim mini streamer into AS 300 DAC, add speakers maybe Klipsch or Elac and you’re on your way ! Super affordable and decent sounding!
Hi Andrew. First off, I want to thank you so much for your incredible videos. I’m still a newbie, if you will for 3 years now, but your videos in particular have been a big part of where I’ve gotten my knowledge from.
But I have a big problem. In the past I have seen stereo system speaker’s & how they would move in and out with the sound. I learned the term for it: Extrusion. I built a DIY kit. It’s the CSS Criton 1td. I’ve had them for 2 years and they’ve never had any extrusion. I have seen a review by Tharbamar in which he showcased the same speakers and recorded how they sounded, and how they appeared; once again, those had extrusion taped the playing with sound. They sounded ethereal to me. The speaker extruded like crazy. My speakers won’t extrude. CSS Audio says they are fine as they are. I say they are defective. Terry, one of the owners refuses to send me new woofers first. I have to shoulder and suffer for 2 weeks without while I send them for testing. I have untreatable depression. Beside my wife, HiFi is a lifeline for me. Music is almost everything to me. Plz can you provide feedback about the extrusion problem. I thank you very much in advance. Terry Cain
Really appreciate the support, Terry. In regards to your CSS speakers and how they differ from what you've seen on this other channel, based on what I can gather, it appears the reviewer was playing very bass heavy tracks at extreme volumes in order to find or reach the woofer's maximum travel. If you are not seeing your woofers do this during normal listening, that's actually perfectly normal. What I believe you were seeing in the video was a stress test. I can tell you any of our bookshelf speakers, even when listening at higher volumes, it is rare that we see our woofers move that what I saw in the video I watched. It is my opinion, that your speakers are functioning properly and that you don't need to be anxious about their performance. Now, if when you hear bass notes through your speakers you also hear buzzing or rattling, that is different and that may be a problem that CSS should help you with. If you are hoping to replicate the visuals of a sound demo you witnessed on another channel, I would advise you not to do that.
Nice video. Thank you both. Based on my experience, only 4 elements define the music hearing experience: 1. the music(Genre, quality and mix) 2. speakers 3. room 4. how does the listeners feel / how is the listener impacted by the first 3 elements? Amp is dictated by the speakers and plays no other role and the rest is not important in the experience. The experience of buying Polk Audio R700 taught me a lot and was an eye opening process.
Andrew this was a great video and Kristi's take was SPOT ON!! She did a pure mic drop! That being said. My surround sound system that's hooked up to my LG C1 didnt cost a fortune and I don't care because it sounds great to the wife and I and that's all that matters. If it puts me into the heart of the movie that's all I need.
Something I know you would enjoy; my wife and I previewed the new B&W Signature 800 @ 805's in their nautilus blue. At 50k and 12k dipping into 3ohms I don't see it for myself but they did rock my socks.
Just peeped those in a press release. The blue looks icy!! That price though. LOL...I'm probably missing something, but that's quite the up charge for a different paint job and a crossover! Still, would love to hear the big boy towers!
Quite enjoyed the pacing, custcenes to products (not the meme cuts like spiderman and coke bear, they're quite jarring) and tone throughout this video. Heading in a more polished direction
Thank you! We're just trying to have some fun.
Are you listening to the music or the system?
you can do both.
1) Cambridge Audio CXA 61 + NAD CS1 Streamer + PSB T20 speakers QED XT40I cables: $1996
One of the most interesting parts to me was the comments of Kristi, if you are happy and only like to spend a little money you can have a lot of fun with all the things available on the market. The problem I have found is that you get an upgrade bug quickly and the cheaper components do tend to have a very low resale value. As an example: buy a second hand Naim or PassLabs amp from 2010 and it will still cost at least 50% of the new price, a 10 year old Cambridge would be very cheap. I understand that relatively speaking you are still talking about 1000’s instead of 100’s. I have heard cheaper systems from friends that made me wonder why I put so much money in mine 🙉. Enjoy your music with whatever you have!!!
Nice topic. Can I play? Marantz PM7000n + KEF R3 (not meta) $1800, great sounding combo. Combo 2 : Bluesound Powernode and Q Acoustics 5020 or Revels or Polk R200, can a sub for future upgrade.
And for under $1000. Bluesound Node + Mackie MR624 powered speakers. Mackie's use Class AB amp for nice full sound (not sharp or analytical), can add a sub for future upgrade
Nice!!
cost is ok to factor in....there are median incomes and gear cost should be included in the reviews
Thanks for the very informative video. I was thinking of using an AV receiver instead of the separate audio amp and streamer. Add investing in better speakers like the alternatives you recommended. What av receiver would you suggest?
You seem to be suggesting that having a built-in DAC is a good thing but I was under the impression that better performance can be had from an external DAC. Have I been misled by other reviewers who said that?
It isn't that simple. In general, you can find better performance from separates, but that doesn't mean that all separates will be better than integrated, far from it. If you are working within a restricted budget, you may very well find better value for money with an integrated system than with separates.
@@SylvainDuford I was led to believe that an integrated DAC can interfere with an amp's interior components and cause distortion. And if you have a limited budget Schiit Audio makes some very good affordable DACs right here in the USA.
@@john26262 I am afraid that I have to agree with @SylvainDuford, separate components don't always equal or result in better performance. While separate components CAN definitely result in superior sound, whomever said it was a given or automatic, I believe, misspoke --or at least over simplified things. There are numerous products with integrated DACs that perform very well, and would likely hold up to blind testing against stand alone or separate DACs. Keep in mind, a lot of what people like to tout about separate DACs being "better" sometimes falls outside the scope of human hearing, meaning the improvements can be measured and therefor called "improvements" but can we as human beings here the difference out in the real world, or in a real environment...not likely. So like Sylvain said above, there can be great value in buying products that may already have a built-in DAC versus separates --especially if your setup, equipment or room would negate any single-digit gains you may otherwise experience by going with a separate DAC.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Thank you for your reply Andrew. Maybe I am too much of a nerd but I would prefer a component that tests better on paper whether I can hear the difference or not. But then that's just me. lOL.
I have a Sony CMT100 35 watt amp with a pair of core 5's... They sound good to me
Enjoyed the video, thanks for all the work you do. Then a question, based on my situation: I'm in a condo, small to begin with and my front room has a fireplace separating a "living room" and "dining room". Not using the dining room after the first year, this became my "Home Theater" side, and the living room became my computer and audio space. On my desk are Audioengine A2+ speakers connected to my PC, and when I decided on a stereo setup on top of an IKEA bookshelf I got the NAD C700, connected my Audio-Technica BT 120 turntable, and the KEF LS50Meta speakers. It's a good setup, and if in never changes, I'd be fine. But the while not comfortable with "over the top" bass, these speakers and amp seem a little thin, and I've wondered... do I 1) switch the speakers to something more "full range", 2) is the C700 the "weak link" and would upgrading the streaming receiver improve my sound the most? or 3) Would adding an SVS sub, even at low levels so I don't upset my neighbors make the biggest difference? I don't HATE my setup, but I kinda feel like it's missing something. Maybe it's just the tech in me that likes upgrades, but what do those in the chat think?
Your system sounds like a good one. Before you go out and buy new speakers or a subwoofer, check out this video ua-cam.com/video/ObhUaX0PIFc/v-deo.html. My guess is that the problem is with your room, placement or a combination of both. If you are sitting your speakers on the IKEA close to the wall, get them on stands and pull them out into your room. Lastly, if you have nearby neighbors, I would skip the sub for now.
Hey Andrew. What do you think the trade offs plus or minus would be to go from the revel to the project speakerbox 5 s2?
Often there are extreme new tech enthusiasts who buy the latest and greatest stuff and get rid of them a year later (mostly speakers). I would get a decent, used pair. I'm probably not buying anytime soon, but if I had to , I'd look at QA concept 30 and the Elac discovery integrated amp (idk whats the name). integrated amps are just so much easier...probably we could have a review on the Elac amp, andrew ¿ it looks enticing and stores here don't have it in the showroom. edit: just remembered, audiolab's play series is a good solution too. network+amp all in one just like the elac, just a bit more expensive
Id replace the AXA 25 with a AXA 35 and Revel speakers
Vintage would’ve been a better way to go and any other way is stupid! Just kidding of course. Great options here and I have had the AXA-25 amp. Great sounding little amp but it didn’t quite suit my needs after some time. Hopefully the hobby can eventually unite but unfortunately human nature keeps creating division in many aspects.
Not gonna lie, you had me there at first. :)
Back to building a sleeper car that will out run the rich kids.
Have a question, i am looking to start to build a hometheater set-up for movies,gaming and music all equal use, should i buy a receiver first then speakers? The arendale has my attention for speakers but want a future proof receiver for maybe future speakers, looking to do 2.1 or 5.1 or maybe 7.1 no further than that, any advice would help or recommendations for speakers, receiver etc. I also like the realistic sound not fatiguing im new to this audio stuff.
The Arendal will keep you happy long term IMHO. If 5.1 or 7.1 is all you need, this is still the best affordable receiver on the market bit.ly/3k1gqs8
@robinsonbrand, thank you for the speedy response. It is much appreciated. And being helpful, appreciate you and kristi and your channel. Keep up the good work as always.
With either of these systems, can I hook up my 4K OLED TV for surround sound 5.1/2 experience.
No, there are no receivers in these systems for home theater surround, but that doesn't mean you can't still have a great experience watching TV and movies.
You can't do surround sound with these setups, but you could go with this receiver amzn.to/3If2veo and SAVE!
4:27 😂
Glad you enjoyed it!
How about the Schiit Vidar 2 for one of the amp choices?
We've never had the chance to review the Vidar so you'd have to cross check the amp specs with the speakers you want to use.
I wish reviewers would just happily test equipment at various price points and let the audience make their own decisions about the value and diminishing return propositions. As a guy with a graduate degree in economics, I can tell you those questions are actually very difficult to answer. Especially for a luxury product. Which All of this equipment most assuredly is. It also puts reviewers in a bad spot. What are you supposed to say, hey the 93% of you spending $500 for these vinyl wrapped speakers are doing as well as these hand made speakers from Denmark. That ain't how you get 300k members.
I have to put the speakers close to the wall, do you have a speaker recommendation that can be close to the wall?
A speaker that is front ported or sealed will help with close to the wall placement. 2 options would be-- Front ported: bit.ly/3QlTiCR
Sealed: bit.ly/3A3VGqH
@@KristiWright dang.. very pricy
@@bennickerson9581 Those are just examples. You can do some research on your own looking for the types of speakers I proposed.
If budget is the hurdle, I would consider going with bit.ly/3F8GhaR. It's more placement friendly and sounds great. We reviewed it on the channel if you are interested in knowing more.
The Revels come with a rear port plug, so you technically you can push them closer to the front wall with out bass gain/blooming. I would add sub with these speakers either way - port plugged or not...
Hi when can you do the KEF blade two review
Whenever KEF agrees to send them which so far they have not.
I feel you guys strike a balance between cost, looks and performance that few reviewers take into consideration! The one thing I'd change in that system is instead of Cambridge streamer id go with the wiim pro or mini (dependant upon needs) and perhaps I'd put more cash into the speakers or amp. In my mind you can always change out dacs and streamers etc but the speakers and the amp are really a foundation you want to stick with for the long haul!
That's definitely another way to go. Thank you for watching!
I strongly agree in certain cases. Is it better to have the more expensive thing? Yes, but in the walk of life is that one thing going to leave you financially disabled?. Unfortunately this world has always been built on looking down at the poor and looking up to the rich just because I can't afford my dream speakers and I have all budget gear. It doesn't mean that the person that has those speakers are better than me. I argue this all the time with my buddies. I have a 15-year-old Lexus. She's clean. She rides smooth as shea butter.. and to me she's still at work of art. It's a timeless look that Lexus came out with that I love. There's no need for me to start another car payment just so that people look at me as if I have it. Could I afford a new one? Of course I can. I make six figures a year. I kill myself to make that money. My job isn't easy but I don't need it and I enjoy my sound system just the way it is and I enjoy every movie i watch physical media of course😂 I hope that one day maybe in the future we can all just get along and maybe that rich guy that has the high-fi equipment should come to a person like me who has budget equipment and they might be blown away just by how it sounds how it set up and everything. Anyways, I'm done rambling nobody's. Probably really going to finish reading this comment. Much love to both of you. I will see you on Sunday
Oh, and about cost and expectations and pretentious consumers. Wait until you get into boating.
BOAT stands for "Bust Out Another Thousand". Likely not going to get into boating, so hopefully I'll be safe. Appreciate you watching!
Hole in the water through which you pour your whole income
Ahhhh hahaha I remember those fleecings at the "Marine store".. everything marine rated. Here's a small bag of marine grade stainless steel bolts (that still rust to hell in salt water)... $85
When it comes to boating, you'll get to enjoy it a couple of times, the day you buy and the day you sell.
100% agree with Kristi on this one here!!! The fun part of the hobby is creating different experiences of the music or movies you like. My dad tought me from very young. So now i mix and match components to change the sound because that is what is fun. Swithcing between my Revel F206(3500$) and my Dali Zensor 7 (700$) and putting an old 600$ Denon preamp in front of my Mark Levinson 5805 (8500 $) just to have tone controls and a "Different" sound - that is what it is all about - Great video.... Absolutely love it!!
Amen Kristi 🙏🏻
Christy, great way to see through the BS. super insightful perspective, only someone that is outside can see. 👌👍
Very enjoyable and professional video. Kristi makes a huge point! Always judge a system on its musical presentation and personal enjoyment level, not the price tag. Long live hi fi!
I think the gear is something you need to grow on. Iam only starting my HiFi journey and I don’t think I would be able to actually hear too much differences between a 2k and 20k rig.
Thx for being so informative and educational
I really like how the hole point of the video wasn’t to do a A B comparison between an expensive rig and a cheap one, just a good sounding one suggestion.
Very nice video.
Kristi's take was perfect. I would have titled the video "how to start digging a rabbit hole for under $2500"
We hope everyone is enjoying their week so far! Who's excited for the weekend? Any fun plans for the Fourth?
One last thing! Be sure to check out the post review discussion! What are your thoughts??
Going to my Uncle's mountain home so 9,000+ft for a day or two lol. Had no music for 3 days and was going up the wall so I have been going nuts with the music.
I'll be home with my dog. May have to turn up the Hi-Fi to drown out the neighborhood fireworks and keep the little guy from getting stressed.
I would go...
Amp: Cambridge AXR100 £450
Streamer: Wiim Mini £80
Speakers: Q Acoustics 3030i £250
Great system for less than £800 (so less than $1000 I guess) 👍👍👍
Great review as always. Love Christie’s point about the money issue !
The price tag vs. value discussion for audio components is fascinating to me. I've been struggling with this as I try to set up a couple of different systems for my new house. The challenge I face is that, in the absence of an ability to actually listen and judge the quality of audio systems, I have to use price tag as an indicator of product quality. Reviews like yours help add a dimension to the assessment, but it's still very hard to determine the best purchase, if you've never actually been able to hear the gear.
I cannot agree more!
This is in response to the incredibly well said discussion at the end. I fell into the hifi world by originally looking for a good pair of cheap wireless earbuds. Six years later and I have a couple of headphone systems and stereo systems. I will say that I am not rich so I am always looking for a bang for the buck deal. That being said this is about my two headphone systems. My main system with the headphones included is around $1,800 and I love it. It takes me away and fills me with joy when I listen to it. My budget system, hooked up to my desk top is around $350. I just recently added a Schiit Loki and got the system sounding amazing. As good as my main system, no way. But If I had never built my main system and only built my budget one, I have no doubt I would experience the same amount of joy. I don’t think you measure joy with money. Money can make finding joy easier but I don’t think it is exact quotient. I love when you too get into this part of the hobby. You both rock and thank you for making the hobby a better experience.
Thank you so much for the kinds words and support, @davdidit6! We hope to see you on the next video!
Another beautiful presentation! Owned KEF R500 loudspeakers for years. Had an old PIONEER amplifier and wanted to save some money for a decent amplifier for my KEF's. Always thought a HEGEL amplifier was the best combination for these speakers. Then, after a comparison in the same store, have chosen CAMBRIDGE AUDIO CX SERIES. Every favorite song sounded much better with the CX-A81 than with the HEGEL 120 or even the 190! The CXN-V2 is a wonderful DAC for me and the CXC plays my large collection of CDs beautifully. I have been using SONOS for years in the other rooms of my home. To switch to BLUSOUND which is better is too expensive for me. So stick with SONOS. But my SONOS PORT sounds much better through my CXN-V2! I am extremely satisfied with my CAMBRIDGE CX set to really listen to music.
Absolutely LOVE Kristi's perspective on these.... Frankly, a HUGE VALUE ADD ! At the end of the day, only you can decide how much you want to spend on this hobby and be satisfied with it... It's the free market at work...
Thank you! I sincerely appreciate your kind words.
You should make more of these on Different price ranges between 2-10 thousand IMO
Hey!! This video was the bomb! 🔥💣. I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed it! You provided great, practical insights that the "blue-collar audiophile" can appreciate. (No, your system does not need to be $25,000.) More videos like this please 😁. ❤️. By the way, great editing work!
Thank you Kristi & Andrew. More for the talk afterwards. This is how I feel about Hifi and UA-cam Reviews. Just enjoy what you have and don´t pick on others who do not share your opinion and STOP being nasty in the comments. :-) Thank you.
Thanks for another solid video. I deeply appreciate the discussion, inspired by Kristi, at the end. Your channel draws the audiophiles but your tag line, to me, represents those of us who are music lovers first. I want a system that allows me to hear detailed, balanced music that seems natural and is not fatiguing. Thanks for pointing out what is possible along the price point continuum.
Couldn't agree more with the discussion about people 'taking sides'. The analogy to photography, especially because of the sense that the market is shrinking is right on-point.
1k dollars power cord? Excuse me but WHAT THE ACTUAL FOOCK?!
The NAD D3020 is a great little amp and it pairs well with a number of affordable speakers, such as the Elac B6’s. That plus a Wiim pro streamer and you’re all in under $1000. The NAD has the advantage of having a subwoofer output, so a 2.1 system is easily reachable under $1500.
For someone who really loves music, there's enjoyment in a million dollar system and there's enjoyment in a single dash-speaker mono AM radio. If you love the music you're hearing, it takes you somewhere. Sometimes the system guides where it takes you. Hearing tinny mono country-western takes me back to listening to George Jones with my dad when I was a kid. Listening to Fleetwood Mac on a million dollar system reminds me of the control room and console where they recorded the track (I've recorded there, nowhere near The Chain). There's something to enjoy in every system. If you love music, and not just the equipment, you'll find that thing.
Good video and an interesting conversation starter. So many product categories -- hifi, watches, autos, whiskey, clothing...you name it -- have taken the notion of luxury goods / experience to an extreme where the brands are intentionally pursuing a smaller pool of buyers who have the means to spend without limits rather than a mass market. I believe that on a macro level it's a reflection of the growing income disparity / concentration of wealth in our economy, but whatever the reason, so many things are becoming segmenteed in a way that only the most fortunate can afford to participate in new products. As we have become more tribal as a society, we've also become a lot nastier towards the other group, no matter which end of the spectrum one might represent.
Enjoyed this video!
Do this again for a 5.1 AV setup please
Bravo on the hifi expense comments. I even get tired of ratios amps should be such a percentage of speaker. Synergy for the money you are willing to budget and prioritizing the origin country of said products is more how I look at it. I prefer to avoid chifi but the Eversolo is very tempting. I went Bluesound over the Eversolo for my streamer as I prefer to send the money to Canada if possible.
Andrew, youve taught me so much, like the speakers are the most important source in the audio chain. I’m beginning to see the light.
Thank you
My set is a Marantz PM6006 UK Edition, a Chromecast Audio and a pair of Dynaudio Emit 10's. A great listen. I like Moon and ATC but I'm enjoying myself.
Enjoyed Kristi's take (agreeing with the wife is the key to a long and happy life ) .....as an older guy (cough) I think internet forums have exacerbated the "heat" and produce a signal to noise ratio I can only describe as dismaying. In earlier years you had to go the the letters column of a magazine to witness the shootouts so it was easier to avoid. As a photography enthusiast I see the same vitriol with gear choices....if you shoot Fujifilm (as I do) you are definitely on the outer.....bottom line : we have different musical tastes, different budgets, different rooms and different *hearing*....I've just retired, upgraded my system to Pro-ject/Rotel/Rotel/Dynaudio and am very happy with the setup which will do me for (??) years.....I can happily listen to someone else's system who has different criteria to me, I get why they made their choice and it doesn't bother me....and yeah, it's really that simple ....cheers from OZ :-)
Great video! Appreciate the dac comments-it’s exhausting, kind of like the cable debate. For me, part of the fun is getting great sound at minimal cost. However, I still keep the Q acoustic 3030i’s in play. Fun speaker.
Q makes GREAT speakers and they would definitely be a welcomed addition to ANY of these amplifier suggestions!
Step 1: Buy a Parasound Hint
Step 2: Buy any speakers you'll think will sound good and can afford
Step 3: be an audiophile
I always like these videos so well done. Mine is Cambridge AXR100, Emovtiva Tzero+ towers with a Kanto sub 8. PS none of it required two hundred hours of burn in 😂.
If something needs 200 hours to "break in" then I expect to be compensated for the time spent NOT listening to my purchase. 😅
@@KristiWright No kidding!!!
Must hide this video from my wife! 😂
She’s going to say: You see!!! You dont have to spend thousands just in a streamer to have good soud experience!!! 😂😅
@ruiewen mine was only $550 (Node 2i) but yes.
Naim has always been a maker of high-end products, I used to own a Naim CD3 back in the mid 90's. Fantastic CD player. But over a grand for an effin cable? Come on. What is that???
I don't care about 'cemetery' but I do care about 'symmetry'. Very different things? :)
Just insane how good the offerings are today @ very affordable price points.
Glad you guys mentioned the AXR100. While I often think I’d like to upgrade at some point, my AXR100 has a feature I’ve become addicted to… tone controls that can be accessed with the REMOTE CONTROL! Being able to adjust tone on the fly from my listening chair is a game changer!
The Heaven 11 Billie amp I’m looking at doesn’t have tone controls at all. Now I can add a Schitt tone control but… no remote. So, I’m sticking with what I got till I can figure out a workaround.
Couldn't you hook up the Billie to the AXR 100s pre out?
Nice. With so many options, im sure some folks may not know where to start. Cheers!
Anyone with a smaller room, the AXR85 is probably your sweet spot, lovely bit of kit and save $100
The AX/AXR line is really solid! If anyone is curious about the AXR85, you can check it out here bit.ly/3H3iQ32 and amzn.to/2RQjLPL.
I love my AXR85!
THANKS☝I am curious that the 2 main music sources that I use are:
1. FM Radio - sound quality is better than DAB. My automatic choice is to listen to BBC Radio 3 until 9am and again after meeting at 9.30am
2. CD - over the last 30 (or 40?) years I have built up my music library with 1,000s of CDs. Some music only once but say Mahler - about 5 cycles of his symphonies - still collecting.........
Your system doesn't seem to handle either?? Do no other hi-fi enthusiasts listen to the radio or their carefully built up library?☝
I do listen to FM radio when I do not bother what piece of music Ishall load next in my cd player;saying that means I do STILL collect cds and my collection of 1660+ cds is growing , 6of ordered cds are about to reach my house this week:)
"Specs don't tell the whole story" so glad to hear you say that and recommend a 25W per channel amp. So many people are obsessed with power. I have three systems in my home doing different jobs in different rooms. The one I enjoy the sound of most is a twenty-something year old marantz PM4200 (35W per channel) with Tannoy M1 speakers.
I just wished Cambridge would make more brushed black products. Silver isn't always the easiest to coordinate.
Agree 100% with you both. Audio and what is perceived “better” is something very personal and there simply isn’t a right or wrong and it’s definitely not dictated by price, brand image or marketing but by how it makes YOU feel.
Cambridge Audio MXN10, BasX TA1 and Transpuls 1500...the higher sensitivity and frequency response of the Transpuls makes the 100wpc of the amp very usable, and you don't need to invest in a sub...great I/O flexibility and still within the budget (barely...lol)
How would this setup compare with more "modern" solutions like the Bluesound Powernode?
Totally agree with your perspective that each side needs to respect each other and not be envious or judgmental due to their gear. I have been listening to music since I was a kid and noticed that, you can enjoy music and the experience of cranking it up, and be completely happy… until you hear something better, LOL! Right now, I am perfectly happy cranking the SMSL AO 200 paired with the DO 200 MK II and the Jamo Concert 9 Series C 93 ii and matching 10” subwoofer at 75-85 decibels. I realize, that there is always something that sounds better. You have to decide when to stop and be happy with your gear for a while and not be compelled to keep buying the next shiny thing (hard to do). I would love to try out different speakers, DACs, and amplifiers, but at some point, I just need to be happy with what I have. Now, if I won the lottery, we’ll, then I would really consider more expensive alternatives!
I appreciate you sharing!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews I do love seeing and watching reviews of high-end gear. I just wish their was a place to go and just get a sense of what a true high-end system sounds like. Of course, that might be a double-edged sword. I will never forget hearing a demo of the B&O Beolab 8000 back in the early 90’s at an Audio Advice store. I was just blown away!
Kristi and Andrew - I love you guys !!!! You hit the nail on the head in your "wrap up". I am sooooo happy and soooo satisfied with my $1200 system (and that includes my 4K TV for home theater....not just music listening). $600 for two 2nd gen Apple HomePods (gets me not only stereo...but Dolby Atmos entertainment) $129 for Apple TV 4K streaming box & lastly $500 for a 65" LG 4K UHD TV....all totaling $1200+...for everything...INCLUDING THE TV ! I love it and my wife loves it.....would I commit murder to get a B&O A9 for $3600? Hell yeah I would.....but I have a family to support and like you guys....a life outside of music listening and movie watching. All in all......I couldn't be happier with my HomePods. Thank you for all your efforts to bring sanity into this hobby. I love you guys !!!!
Setup 1:
* Polk Audio Reserve R200 or JBL Studio 630 = U$700
* Cambridge AXA25 = U$250
* SMSL SU-1 = U$80
Total: U$1.030
Setup 2:
* JBL Studio 698 = U$1.700
* Rotel A11 Tribute = U$700
* SMSL SU-1 = U$80
Total: U$2.480
Couldn’t agree more! The whole world of music enjoyment is too easily lost if we turn it into a d*ck measuring exercise over who has the ‘best’ gear. As you have pointed out before too: you may have the pricey gear, but have you got a crappy room?! Good room and enjoyable gear >>> High end sitting in a marble box….