They use the username "text me on telegram" and have stolen Steve's (and countless other content creators') thumbnail photo but remember you can always tell if it's Steve because of the grey border around his name and even the special "reply" title will let you know if he has replied to our comments. IT'S A SCAM!
@@Niels133 typically you will "win a special prize" like on Steve's channel here it may be huge speakers or components of renown, but then of course you will need to pay for shipping with gift cards lol. But hey they are capitalizing on greed by being greedy so.... Beware!
I've owned my Ohm speakers since 1990. They were originally Walsch 4's and have been upgraded a few times now to the newest 5000 drivers. I bought them while I was still in high school and they've moved with me through college and grad school and multiple apartments. They've sounded great in every room I've set them up in. They have been the absolute best thing I've purchased in my life. Ohm Acoustics has helped me out over the years and have stood by their product. I have listened to many good stereo systems over the years, and have never once had "stereo envy" over someone else's system. I've listened to my speakers for thousands of hours now and still marvel at how good they sound. So as one totally satisfied customer, I've got to say "believe the hype." Ohm speakers kick ass and take names.
You can't get a much better recommendation than that ...I have never heard of them you often find with a special unique product if it is a good as you say.Larger conglomerate companies usually buy them out ..
I am still rockin my Ohm 4x0's that I bought back in 1987. One of them is starting to show problems, but I suppose I could get one of the "upgrades" they offer. Have any of you done that? Which one?
@@nebtheweb8885 I first got my Walsh 4's upgraded to Super 4's in the late 90's. About three years ago they were upgraded to the top of the line 5000 drivers. That was a noticeable improvement but also got me wanting to upgrade my amp and preamp from the NAD 3155 and Adcom 555 mk2 I had from the 90's. I got a Bryston 3B3 amp and preamp and really couldn't be happier. If you can financially manage it, I highly recommend getting the 5000 drivers, although I haven't heard the lesser models. I also had blown my super 4's and needed them repaired in the mid 2000's. Demonstrating them to a friend with a LOUD rendition of "And Justice For All". Apparently with the neodymium magnets in the 5000 drivers, blowing them is nearly impossible. Best of luck and you'll be happy with an upgrade.
I've owned the Walsh 2000s for about a year now and love them for all the reasons Steve and the commenters mention here. Just yesterday I was watching his review of some open baffle speakers and I was intrigued until he mentioned they needed to be 3 ft. from the back wall - same issue with 99% of speakers ever made. Who among us has listening rooms big enough for this?! The real difference maker with Ohms is how close you can and should place them to the back wall. They're real speakers built for the real world. Thanks again Steve for reviewing the 2000s whenever that was!
Bought the 2000's after your review in 2019. Absolutely love them. Picked up the Micro Walsh short for back surrounds. No need for a subwoofer and the spatial sense is so much larger than my old surround system. Your description is spot on but to truly appreciate the meaning and depth of sound, you do need to hear them. I've always had trouble with many of the descriptives used for stereo reviews and never felt that my ears would discern the difference but the Ohms deliver. The clarity, crsipness, feeling I could reach out to touch that instrument, is unbelieveable. (Granted, not all recordings afford that sense but the ones that do, oh boy.) Anyway, a great company to work with. They are there to help you select the best for your room, 120 trial period, free veneer samples, are all elements that make the process of purchasing these more assured. The only downside is having the patience for the longish lead time after you've placed the order but in the end, you'll be glad you made the journey. Thanks Steve for making my listening enjoyment even greater.
Just have to say, I am NOT an audiophile- I don’t “get” speakers and all the tech nuances…. but my husband got us a pair of Walsh 2000s…..and now anytime we go to anyone else’s house, I just talk shit about how awful their speakers sound! (Even the friends who have fancy audiophile speakers) Even to a non-audiophile like me, there is really no beating the Ohm Walsh sound 🤷🏻♀️ the performance speaks for itself.
@@jeffmpvd7689 they are beautiful and gentle and alive at all levels My mom demands that all music be played at a barely audible level and they still shine then
This sounds like the perfect living room speaker - up against a wall like other furniture and not necessarily requiring you to sit in a specific spot to get the best out of it. I just might have to try this.
I bought Ohm F when they were first released. Reconed after all these years, but nothing, I repeat nothing, I've heard sounds any better. The 360 sound and imagining is unbeatable. I've heard the newer models released my Ohm and am pleasantly pleased that they carry on the tradition.
@@jimfallow7173 You would probably have to send the driver back to Ohm and they do it there. However, I did a little digging after reading your comment. I came across this tidbit of information on Ohm's website. Seems you were right about the problematic F. Here is a quote from their website, below... - _"All Ohm F’s have reached the end of their functional lives. There is a foam damping material used around the base of the driver and inside that is failing from old age. We have never successfully repaired an Ohm F that was failing this way (the cone gets modified when you remove the old material and no longer sounds the same). For years, we replaced the old drivers with new ones. The last of these were made when the last craftsman retired. No more originals are available. But a series of upgrades with fourth generation drivers are available."_
@@jimfallow7173 I've actually had two sets of Fs. The ones that currently play I bought reconed from an individual in the Detroit area - probably 20 years ago. Any information I could pass along is way out of date. I haven't looked recently, but there was a listing on EBay pre-covid in which several pairs of Fs were available. I don't know, though, if they were matched pairs.
Steve, Thanks for the great review on the Ohm 1000s. I first experienced the Ohm F back in 1973 at an affluent friend’s party. They were incredible then and they are even more incredible now. I finally got to realize my dream and I purchased a pair of 5000s and 2000s each in 2020. Even though I mostly listen to 2-channel music, I mounted the 2000 omni’s on the back wall 14” under the ceiling to get an ethereal, other-worldly experience from multi-channel recordings. This is what John Strohbeen advised. It is amazing to talk to the president of the company. Everyone at Ohm has been so kind and helpful (shout out to Evan). I would recommend the Ohms to anyone. Fantastic speakers. Now I’m thinking of getting back into vinyl with the U-turn Orbit. Thanks - Patrick
Steve, great review as always. I'm been loving my Ohm Walsh 3000's I got in 2020. My decision to go that way was heavily influenced by your earlier review. The front wall of our room is all glass and my wife wanted the speakers out of the way in the corner, win-win! Not only do they look amazing.... better yet they sound fantastic filling a large long room with holographic sound. The volume of our room dictated the move up to a 3000 from the 2000 and we are glad we followed Ohm's (John's) recommendation. We are super happy with the speakers and Ohm was really great to work, even helping us with a custom white cabinet! Steve, your passion for music and gear have been a great inspiration to me....love your channel. Many thanks.
Great review as usual Steve! Been an owner of the Walsh 1XO for nearly four decades. They’re very clear and precise for both music and theatre, they look nice too. 🙏
I too am in the camp that says spatial performance matters most to perceived realism. Speaker to speaker changes in timber and dynamics, to my ears, don't mean as much to suspension of disbelief as the speakers ability to "breathe" the sound out into the room, without beaming it at you.
I think I share your opinion of the importance of “spatial performance.” I wonder if sensitivities to sound are more variable than personal experience can explain, though. So many people prefer horns over cones, electrostatics over planars…I’m pretty sure we key into specific aspects of sound quite individually. What do you think? I have no research to support my assumptions, by the way.
From my own experience I can say that Steve is right about the weight of the sound from an omnidirectional speaker: there is less of it. It has more of a see through quality. This also means that the high mids sound lush and this is great, especially because imperfections there don’t draw as much attention as they would in most other speaker designs. Meaning you can crank up omnidirectional speakers without too much repercussions and this also adds to their lifelike presentation. E.g. piano recordings really benefit from this.
I haven’t heard an Ohm since the eighties. I remember being awed by the 3D presentation. I have been considering the Spacial Audio M4 ultra open baffle speaker but now you have peaked my interest. Thank you Steve!
I heard the Ohms pre-covid at Munich High-End expo (or was it Bonn, whatever). I remember being very impressed with the soundstage even though the sound wasn't without it's flaws. But definitely something I'd like to own.
I’ve had a pair of 1000s for 4 years. Love them. Even better since I recently added a sub. Unexpected bonus: although these were purchased for music they are excellent for home theater. No need for a center speaker because the cross-firing super tweeters create a phantom center that works regardless of where u sit. It’s subtle until you realize it, than it seems magical. Also have Ohm micro omnidirectional HT rears which washes the room w/ sound, makes the speakers disappear and sound much more realistic.
Heh, I was wondering about exactly this! Thanks for the HT information as I was thinking "Hmm... 1000s upfront and Micros for the rear, but what about a center channel?" 👍
I've owned several pairs of Ohm speakers (C2, D2) over the years, and love the company. For the past 10 years I've been running the rare conventional flagship Ohm "Model I" (pronounced "eye"). The louder you play, the better they sound. You can visit the shop in Red Hook and John will let you listen to stuff and walk around the warehouse where they build stuff. If I had one criticism, it's that all of the new designs are... how should I put this... quite phallic in appearance. If they could solve that problem, I would upgrade my home theater. Love Ohm!
I listened to a pair of the original Ohm speaker being driven by Mac gear back before I could afford any of it. It was a revelation. Update to 15 years ago I bought a pair of the larger Ohm speakers. My search for speakers ended . For me anyway these are like listening to live music and I still get amazed every time I listen to them.
a couple of friends have recently purchased vintage Walsh and LOVE them! Love that they are made in America! Also, great hairdo, Steve! Lookin' good! ❤
Been waiting for a LONG time for this review. I feel the 2000 were a bit big for my space and wasn't sure if the 1000 would live up the expectations of the bigger brother. Thank you.
Hey Steve I have heard the Shahinians Omni directional speakers in a show powered by Rega amplification. It was like being at a live gig! Absolutely brilliant!
Bought a used set of Walsh 2’s and brought them to John at Ohm in Brooklyn for refurbishing with updated drivers about 15 years ago. Still playing great to this day. And have no desire to change them for something else. What I like most is the wide sweet spot they project with their full room sound. They sound great from anywhere in the room.
I graduated from Richard King high school in Corpus Christi Texas in 1972. They have a planetarium, really nice one. I remember going in there in 1970 and watching a presentation. They had a set of Omni directional speakers, I believe they were ESS speakers in there and with that dome ceiling it was magical.
I have been an Ohm devotee since the Tech Hifi days. My first pair were Ohm E's. Then I went to to L's for almost 40 years before I added L2's and C2's to my HT. In my stereo rig I have the the Super H's that John and his team refurbished and updated- I am extremely happy with these speakers, as they have great sonic range and warmth on all types of music. Nice to See John and his team get the recognition they deserve. The Walsh is still on my bucket list, but Steve many have said you need a sub-woofer? Thoughts? One of my good friends has a vintage pair of Walsh 2's with a sub and he loves it- he is a JBL guy too. I currently have a Rouge Sphinx 3- which has no sub-woofer RCA.
Another great review that triggers my curiosity. I am currently an Ortho Acoustic audiophile running my Larsen 8.2 up against the wall. I already get to enjoy a super wide soundstage without much need for room treatment. Now I really want to listen to a pair of Ohm's :)
I think that the most important aspect of this speaker, that it shares with a few other speakers - is that they are designed to be placed *near* the wall behind them - as you mention.
I first heard Ohm speakers in 1979 or ‘80 at the home of a girlfriend’s aunt. Lost the girlfriend shortly thereafter, but the incredible spaciousness of those speakers stuck in my brain somewhere. I saw the review you did a couple of years ago, and investigated the company and it’s products thoroughly before plunking down the cash for a pair of 3000s. I agree with everything you said-and the great thing about Ohm is the fact that size doesn’t matter, at least in terms of sound quality, as long as the speakers you select match your room size. Ohm is very helpful in assisting people who are unsure of their needs, and in my case talked me out of buying the 4000s. Stellar imaging is the hallmark of the Ohm sound. The natural feeling of their sound when listening for extended periods eliminates fatigue and promotes involvement with the music. That’s the key for me-I don’t need the exaggerated thump in my chest produced by typical speakers when I listen at high volumes. Yeah, there’s a lengthy wait time between purchase and delivery, but the rewards are worth it.
These remind me of the original Mirage OMNI / OM-9 speakers (omni directional) when they were at the height of audio in the 90's. Cool to see some of this tech coming back.
I own Mirage 1295i speakers....bipolar version with 100 watt subs built in. I have never been unimpressed with how open and airy they sound. They make my live records from way back when sound soooo good.
Steve, the Kenny Rankin music you talked about in this video is amazing. The sound is so real. Anyone out there listen to barimba. That sing is what I use to evaluate equipment.
I'm Scandinavian and Aegir is most commonly pronounced "Ah - gear ". There are slight variations in pronunciation depending on which part of Scandinavia you go to and it varies even more widely around the world.
Great review -overview!! The first pair of speakers I bought were the Ohm H in 1981, which were a "box"speaker. I loved them.. but I was the only one who did!
The only Ohms I have ever listened to were the, if memory serves, the Walsh 5's. And now I am actively looking into Ohm speakers. The most phenomenal sound I can remember hearing.
Back in 1974, I was living in Victorville California. I went to a store in San Bernardino and bought an Ohm Walsh speaker set. I don't remember what model or even if there was more than one. I really liked the sound. I was driving them with a Hafler DH-220 amp and an AR SP3a-1 pre from a Linn Sondek LP12. There were three albums by Cat Stevens that got a lot of spin time back then. I thought I had reached audio nirvana. Later, when I lived in Belleville, Illinois I had those speakers stolen. I ended up replacing them with a set of Magnapan MG1's which I also liked a lot. I sure wish I still had the Ohm Walsh set. Coming from a music background where I was exposed to hearing live music all the time, it has been a lifelong search of mine to find a system that would come close to duplicating the live sound. These two speaker sets were the closest I have come so far, at least in a price range that I can afford. Very good on vocals and string instruments and really able to detect bad recordings.
My best friend and I both bought OHM Fs $800/pr, cause the As was too expensive $2000/pr and needed ungodly power. That was almost 50 years ago when we graduated from Elgin HS. F cones finally split so sent Fs back and bought Walsh 4s. Don't fire them up much but the Crown components still power up and it all sounds great. Now being Retired, time to sell them to someone who still is an audiophile!
Steve, I discovered you channel about a year ago and was really taken by your review of the Walsh 2000s. We have just one brick and mortar store where I live. I was there for some small item and noticed what appeared to be a pair of Ohms. I wasn’t really in the market for speakers, so didn’t pursue it further. A couple of months later I watched the review again and decided to go have a look on the very long odds that they were still there and that I could afford them. An hour later they were in my car and I couldn’t believe my luck. They’re Walsh 2000s in Cherry, used but in perfect condition, and were extremely reasonably priced. They’re everything you said they were. Probably, in your terms my “last speakers.” Now, I just need the perfect amp. Please let me know what that might be!
They're said to be "not fussy" about amps, but when I switched from a Schiit Vidar (which sounded good) to my LFD Zero Mk III integrated (an SET design), it made a big improvement!
I have never heard the Ohm omni speakers but have played with omni designs myself over the years. I recently started reworking the crossover on a pair of large, wide baffle, powered 4-way speakers I built in 2018. They have 3/4", 2", 8", and 12" drivers. I was never happy with the midrange sound these produced and decided to take another run at the digital crossover design last month. I had not measured the off axis response in the past and decided to start there with the redesign. I measured each driver at 0 and 90 degrees off axis. I was shocked to find the midrange array had a very ragged off axis response and a null at 3,400 Hz. So I decided to lower the crossover frequencies so that each driver would be cut off before it's 90 degree off axis response started to degrade. So now this speaker has an even response across the full forward 180 degrees all the way up to 12 kHz where the tweeter starts to beam a little. The sound and imaging was transformed. This speaker is now very much like an omni-directional speaker placed against the wall, but without the back wall reflection. Pretty amazing to find what can done to change the radiation pattern of a conventional speaker simply choosing different crossover points.
I am still on my Walsh 4's from 1985. (First released in the 1970's, when I read about them in stereo magazine). Walnut finish, flared trapezoidal shape. (Ohm went to cylindrical later;n apparently now rectangular.) Listed at the time at $1895 / pair; I got the floor demos at about half that. After 15 years I had to have them re-foamed, have worked perfectly ever since. Highly recommended for main stereo listening room and surround sound.
I owned a set of ohm 2x0s since the 90s ... playing them through a vintage Marantz model 15 (restored) a "musical design" sb preamp with all the mods and various sources since the 90s ... much of my gear i have had from paper route money since the 70s .... that said... have always enjoyed the ohms...and a few years back after thinking about upgrading the 2xo's for years which OHM has a wonderful trade/upgrade program (who else does that >?) .... I found a set of 1000's at what I would call a bargain.... Again... had owned and listened to the 2xo's though a "modest system" for "decades" and all i can say is "bam/whooooo" ... the 1000's are amazing... over and above fit and finish... they are every thing i came to love about the speakers (they have their own flavor)... but yes more flexible in placement... and simply "stunning".... props to OHM in keeping customers sooo long.. and sorry to hear John passed recently as... over the decades i called with a few questions about upgrandes and gosh darn he was the one whom picked up the phone.... If i ever one the lotto to build my dream system... I would order the top of the line in a heart beat with the appropriate gear.... and im sure and confident be happy to the end of my days..... and yeah side note... one of the things that always kept my interest was... they were easy to get a hold of and even if i just wanted to upgrade /re juv the crossovers on my old 2x0's ... they were totally cool with showing me/telling me what it would cost and "did i want to place an order".... I have some vintage klipsh KG1 bookshelfs "original owner" but can i get a new crossover board for them ? heck no... but still love the speakers... Ohm is diff a company so far in my decades of audio journeys..... love their products and love their custo service..... sooooooo glad you have kept them in your reviews :) xoxo
Great review Steve! I picked up a pair of barely used Ohm F speakers in the early ‘80s. Was amazed by how they made music sound. Still have them, but once the foam around the base of the drivers deteriorated, they have been stored away. Your review may finally push me to get them upgraded 😊
Updating them was the best thing I ever did, John was so gracious and replaced them with F4’s. That was about 10 years ago, never looked back. Talked to John today, he still answers the phone. Nicest guy ever!
I watched your last review and started looking for OHM or some other omnidirectional speakers minutes after. I don't have the money to spend on anything fancy and my space is cramped - and stereo equipment is lower on my "want" list than most (if not all) people watching your videos. I looked on eBay for "OHM Walsh" a bunch of times but everything was pricey and wouldn't work for me. One day I came across a listing for some very odd and very old Electrohome speakers made in Canada in the 1960's(?). The seller said the speaker behind the grill looked like a mini OHM Walsh driver. Everybody and their brother bid on these things because they were curious like me - I didn't win the speakers. I looked for these Electrohome speakers every once in a while for about a year and a half until one day I was watching UA-cam and thought "look now". I paused the video and went to eBay. A pair of the little (ugly) speakers were listed and at decent price. I had to do some simple modifications to the speakers and I flipped them upside down when I set them up on top of my DALI bookshelf speakers. They add just the right amount of upper end treble and open up the soundstage. Cymbals and high-hats sound sparkly and vocals sound clear. They're probably 50% of what these 1000s do but they work for me. Thanks for this and the last review.
A few years ago I listened to some MBL speakers that use a similar technology, one of the most amazing listening experiences, this has stuck with me since then...
Another great review Steve. I love how many times I get a little glimpse into the creation and artistry of the music itself along with the equipment review. A while back you reviewed a pair of Spatial Audio Lab speakers and in that review mentioned a future review of a different modal. I am wondering if I missed the second go round with SAL or when that is coming?
@@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac I have an older pair of Spatials and really love them. Would be excited to hear how some of their more expensive models measure up.
Thanks so much for this video review. I always look forward to your posts since I find them enjoyable, informative and entertaining. Ohm speakers have intrigued me for a long time, but info on them is hard to come by and I haven't had the opportunity to hear them in person. Another speaker that interests me is the Entry Series from ATC. About 2 years ago you mentioned them in the course of your review of the Wharfedale EVO 4.3 floorstanders however, I don't recall ever seeing them featured in your show. Would be interested to hear your take on these. Thanks!
Didn't know they were still in biz. Nothing beats then for room filling sound, but fatiguing to listen to for extended periods. Great party speaker, not a critical listening relaxing on a rainy day speaker. I bet they'd be fun for HT too.
Nice one, Steve! Of the three classic US made speakers (Vandersteen, Magenpan, Ohm) - Ohms are by far the easiest to place. It's my understanding that they are quasi-omni directional, which is why one can put them against a wall. They sound just as you describe, and in my opinion do certain things that only much more expensive speakers can do. Also to note, John Strohbeen is great. I went to the shop in Brooklyn to pick up my speakers and he answered all of my questions and was so nice to deal with.
First time ever experienced hearing the W2000AU's and was totally blown away by these speakers. I have to close my eyes and feel where the sound was coming from and honestly couldn't tell., it was just everywhere and what drove me mad was how the hell can the speakers be on the corner right on the wall with a large table blocking it partially on it's front and still sound supremely excellent.
Hi Steve, if you want to be really impressed by a speaker with great sound at a lower price than the OHM Walsh 1000 then I urge you to try the Duevel Planets - omnidirectional speakers, made in Germany, around USD1000 - I believe that you have an importer on the US. I have a pair and they are just amazing, au pair with the description that you have made for the OHM's. Keep on the good work :)
4:30 what is the super tweeter ? same as before, a $1 Little pizo horn ( very directional as you said) These 5 Lsi7 book shelves by Polk are the most accurate bi-amped with 300 watts times 5 ! I remember how exciting it was to first listen to multi directional smeared rough response level output stereo ohms but for actual accuracy it's more of a kids speaker.
When I was young I had an Ohm subwoofer. Worked great but I could not afford the Walsh stuff. Wonder about some of the low profile brands that are maybe low production, and have become obscure because they fall off the radar of the big magazines or fall out of favor with the market somehow. Some of these old companies are still selling and have websites if you know about them. But no one is talking about them. I am talking companies that once had reviews and a reputation, not some really obscure basement builders or something.
One of the most awesome experiences so far for me were the Bloomline Omniwaves. It really blows your mind if the speakers are in front of you and you hear fireworks above your head! In quite a large room too! Just crazy.
Have you ever listened to Larsen speakers Steve? Not Omni directional but almost identical looking to the Ohm’s and they have to go up against the wall. By the way Duevel speakers from Germany are Omni directional and are serious competition for the Ohm’s.
Nice review Steve. I've had my MicroWalsh Talls since 2004. They are so enjoyable and do so much right I wouldn't get rid of them unless moving up to the 1000's (or maybe 2000's). Other speakers have come and gone, a few have stayed, but none of them present music quite like the Ohm's.
Hi James. How do they sound at "background" i.e. lowish volumes? Do they need a certain amount of juice before you hear the benefit that owners rave about, and - only if you know - might this be "worse" for some older Ohm Walsh models? Thanks.
Why is the Audiophiliac my favourite UA-camr about audio? I think it's because he has the most soul and the most interesting personality. I always try to put it in these words: Would you like to share the room with him? Definitely.
Steve, have you ever listened to Stig Carlsson's Orto-acoustical speakers? I believe that the fundamental Carlsson approach still is found in the Larsen series of speakers. The way you are describing these Ohms seems very similar to that experience. I inherited a pair of Carlssons (from the '70s) and use them as 2-channel stereo listning but found that they work really well as 2.0 sound for home theatre. If you still have your Ohms, put your tv in between them and give it a go.
The lxmini design by Siegfried Linkwitz has an omni radiation pattern from the mid forties up to the crossover point around 700 and transitions to a cardioid then dipole. Similar way of illuminating the room.
I remember the Ohm A from my early employment at Hi Fi Sales in Mesa AZ, it was the most surreal speaker i had heard. Voice coil ran cherry- red and didn't protest.
As I walked into a Tech HiFi store in the Detroit area, I was confident I was hearing Fs. The sound was so full. Imagine my surprise when I rounded the corner and saw a pair of As. Those were the ones playing. A set of Fs was next to them. I then switched to them. As much as I loved the Fs, the As were of another magnitude. The Fs just couldn't compete. But then, again, the price difference was about the same magnitude!
I truly admire and adore OHM LOUDSPEAKERS. The brand name says it all. In this school of loudspeaker design; I truly admire GRADIENT, ELIPSON, CABASSE SPHERE and DUEVEL🎉🎉🎉 Thanks Steve 🫵✨💎📢♾🙏🏼
I remember the OHM F. It way too big and expensive, but I was still impressed. My budget at the time dictated the OHM E - the sealed box 8” 2 way bookshelf speaker.
I have the vintage Ohm frs-15 speakers with the up-graded speakers. Paired with a Marantz receiver and a 6100 turntable. Un-believable sound stage. Try any of the albums by 'Yello' especially the ones with horns. Great albums to test speakers.
Had a pair of Ohm Walsh 200 Mk II. Had to sell them because I lived in a condo and walls were thin. Became a headphone audiophile. But I wanted to comment that the Walsh speakers have a character that you could play them loud, but it never felt like the sound was pounding you, beating you, assaulting you. No. Because the sound is omnidirectional, it's more relaxing, effortless, and enjoyable. You can just keep turning the volume up and up and up and it just gets better and better without that feeling like "Yikes, turn that volume down." I've experienced the same thing with HiFiMan headphones.
Most if not all omnidirectional speakers I've listened to, where projecting music the opposite way: The orchestra was there, at the level of the speakers and maybe a bit in front and behind them and the singer was in the background. Like being in a club and listening to the orchestra while drinking your whiskey in the bar. Great speakers for psychedelia, electronic music, Pink Floyd and Vangelis, atmospheric and with great depth and height but certainly not for projection freaks in any way. I've never listened to the American Ohm speakers and I really wish they are different because they are truly beautiful and aristocratic. As for the rest of us, we can steal a bit of that openess by placing beads in the front corners of our conventional speakers. The best 1 dollar trick which Steve has never mentioned...
I have omni direction speakers which are Mirages OM10. They bounce off the wall also. I love them to the point I had one of them fixed. It need a new voice coil. The apartment I am in now has thin wall and I have issue is how detail the speaker sounded. In my last apartment you heard how detail treble sounded. In this place how the mid range sound if that makes sense. I had celestion at first but you are right. The sound stage sound fuller. I may upgrade since my speakers is 20 years old to those you reviewed
They say you what your hear is about 60% the room, so treating the room is very important. I wonder how the Ohm's deal with that? Does it mean that the room is less important to them than other speakers? Thanks, Steve.
I have an old pair of Mirage Omni OM150’s (with the “Star Trek” diffuser) and I can very much appreciate what you’re saying about the spatial quality of the sound. My question is do these kinds of speakers negate the need for room treatments?
I've had a pair of ohm 1000s for about 4 years. I can't imagine having any other speakers for my music tastes: chamber, piano solo and four hand, and for something different, opera. I also have a love for "historical" recordings, another way of saying monaural. This is where I think the Ohms are especially revelatory. Try the 1957 Knappertsbusch Ring from Bayreuth for a true "you are there" experience.
I have them about 14" away from the wall, on either side of a large stand with equipment and a 55" TV on top. I also have them sitting on 12x12" rolling plant stands. The extra rise helps due to my listening position and a bass resonance issue with the room itself.
I have a pair of Walsh 4’s from the 70’s which are behind my listening area. I use them with a pair of Forte 4’s up front and the effect is the Ohms pull the sound stage created by Klipsch’s into my lap.
Thanks Steve! - I have known of Ohm for decades, and I love the "omnidirectional" design concept. My question is, that if the track was not mixed with a similar technology in mind, how natural is the actual sound going to be? Just a thought... - Cheers!
In addition... How would you rate the Ohm speaker for home theater applications? I think this style of speaker (weatherproofed) would be excellent outdoors in the open on a deck - What do you think? - Thanks!
I picked up on Ohm when I saw Zeos's review of the 2000s. Besides his levels of freaking out I had never seen from him before, the sound demo he put out of the 2000's were incredible. Not that it sounded special coming out of my headphones, but by how close listening to him recording in his apartment sounded to the actual tracks he was playing. Now I don't have the Ohm Walsh Talls, I saw a different video showcasing the Ohm C2's and Model H's, their old bookshelf speakers that came out in the late 70s/early 80s. They just looked so different. Then the pandemic hit and while going stir crazy I called up Ohm and talked to John himself and ordered a pair of refurbished Model H's. They arrived 7 months later and I have loved them since. They still image like standard bookshelf speakers, but their voice is unique to Ohm, and I love how they sound. I seldom turn the sub on anymore because the 12" radiator puts out so much low end. They do drop off after 30 Hz, but that 8" driver can sing. Love Ohm, enjoyed your take on them! Glad they made it through the pandemic and hope they stick around for years to come.
I had omf's o h m f back in 1974 and just like the absolute sound review said there was an coloration coloration aaaaahh coloration compared to other popular speakers of the time like the dq was dq 10 and the quad panels and even the magna pan magnet playing ours magnaplay magna planars so I sold mine after a year and even though being surround sound they did not provide the most accurate sound available. but they were very interesting to look at and analyze the designer
These are intriguing: since the majority of a speaker’s sound in a room is reflected anyway, Ohm’s embrace the room and appear to make normal positioning guidelines and room treatments (and I assume, room correction) moot
There's an Audiophiliac/Steve Guttenberg imposter scamming my viewers, DON'T respond! I don't do giveaways or ask for money (except for my Patreon).
They use the username "text me on telegram" and have stolen Steve's (and countless other content creators') thumbnail photo but remember you can always tell if it's Steve because of the grey border around his name and even the special "reply" title will let you know if he has replied to our comments. IT'S A SCAM!
Stave does the best reviews lol
He tried it. That I won a price and I had to telegram you. There he had a avatar of your face. Then he tried to make me buy stuff.
@@Niels133 typically you will "win a special prize" like on Steve's channel here it may be huge speakers or components of renown, but then of course you will need to pay for shipping with gift cards lol. But hey they are capitalizing on greed by being greedy so.... Beware!
It seems this imposter is active across a number of other channels, too.
I've owned my Ohm speakers since 1990. They were originally Walsch 4's and have been upgraded a few times now to the newest 5000 drivers. I bought them while I was still in high school and they've moved with me through college and grad school and multiple apartments. They've sounded great in every room I've set them up in. They have been the absolute best thing I've purchased in my life. Ohm Acoustics has helped me out over the years and have stood by their product. I have listened to many good stereo systems over the years, and have never once had "stereo envy" over someone else's system. I've listened to my speakers for thousands of hours now and still marvel at how good they sound. So as one totally satisfied customer, I've got to say "believe the hype." Ohm speakers kick ass and take names.
Yes!!! Everyone else’s speakers literally sound like trash 🙄 we are spoiled by ohm
You can't get a much better recommendation than that ...I have never heard of them you often find with a special unique product if it is a good as you say.Larger conglomerate companies usually buy them out ..
I am still rockin my Ohm 4x0's that I bought back in 1987. One of them is starting to show problems, but I suppose I could get one of the "upgrades" they offer. Have any of you done that? Which one?
@@nebtheweb8885 I first got my Walsh 4's upgraded to Super 4's in the late 90's. About three years ago they were upgraded to the top of the line 5000 drivers. That was a noticeable improvement but also got me wanting to upgrade my amp and preamp from the NAD 3155 and Adcom 555 mk2 I had from the 90's. I got a Bryston 3B3 amp and preamp and really couldn't be happier. If you can financially manage it, I highly recommend getting the 5000 drivers, although I haven't heard the lesser models. I also had blown my super 4's and needed them repaired in the mid 2000's. Demonstrating them to a friend with a LOUD rendition of "And Justice For All". Apparently with the neodymium magnets in the 5000 drivers, blowing them is nearly impossible. Best of luck and you'll be happy with an upgrade.
Then you haven't listen to any good speakers in a good room.
It is about time John at Ohm gets his long awaited recognition as being a top speaker designer. Happy for him.
I've owned the Walsh 2000s for about a year now and love them for all the reasons Steve and the commenters mention here. Just yesterday I was watching his review of some open baffle speakers and I was intrigued until he mentioned they needed to be 3 ft. from the back wall - same issue with 99% of speakers ever made. Who among us has listening rooms big enough for this?! The real difference maker with Ohms is how close you can and should place them to the back wall. They're real speakers built for the real world. Thanks again Steve for reviewing the 2000s whenever that was!
Bought the 2000's after your review in 2019. Absolutely love them. Picked up the Micro Walsh short for back surrounds.
No need for a subwoofer and the spatial sense is so much larger than my old surround system. Your description is spot on but to truly appreciate the meaning and depth of sound, you do need to hear them. I've always had trouble with many of the descriptives used for stereo reviews and never felt that my ears would discern the difference but the Ohms deliver. The clarity, crsipness, feeling I could reach out to touch that instrument, is unbelieveable. (Granted, not all recordings afford that sense but the ones that do, oh boy.) Anyway, a great company to work with. They are there to help you select the best for your room, 120 trial period, free veneer samples, are all elements that make the process of purchasing these more assured. The only downside is having the patience for the longish lead time after you've placed the order but in the end, you'll be glad you made the journey. Thanks Steve for making my listening enjoyment even greater.
How are they at lower volumes? Do they need to be played relatively loud to make them come alive?
Just have to say, I am NOT an audiophile- I don’t “get” speakers and all the tech nuances…. but my husband got us a pair of Walsh 2000s…..and now anytime we go to anyone else’s house, I just talk shit about how awful their speakers sound! (Even the friends who have fancy audiophile speakers) Even to a non-audiophile like me, there is really no beating the Ohm Walsh sound 🤷🏻♀️ the performance speaks for itself.
@@jeffmpvd7689 they are beautiful and gentle and alive at all levels
My mom demands that all music be played at a barely audible level and they still shine then
Yup, moderate, easy on the ears sounds fine.
This sounds like the perfect living room speaker - up against a wall like other furniture and not necessarily requiring you to sit in a specific spot to get the best out of it. I just might have to try this.
I think you will adore them! I absolutely do!
You can sit anywhere and the sound is fab
Might also want to look into Larsen speakers.
But not against a wall! 1-1.5’ away from a wall is not against a wall.
@@FluterraProbably good WAF too.
I bought Ohm F when they were first released. Reconed after all these years, but nothing, I repeat nothing, I've heard sounds any better. The 360 sound and imagining is unbeatable. I've heard the newer models released my Ohm and am pleasantly pleased that they carry on the tradition.
Where did you get them reconed? Always heard it was problematic with the F.
@@jimfallow7173 You would probably have to send the driver back to Ohm and they do it there. However, I did a little digging after reading your comment. I came across this tidbit of information on Ohm's website. Seems you were right about the problematic F. Here is a quote from their website, below...
-
_"All Ohm F’s have reached the end of their functional lives. There is a foam damping material used around the base of the driver and inside that is failing from old age. We have never successfully repaired an Ohm F that was failing this way (the cone gets modified when you remove the old material and no longer sounds the same). For years, we replaced the old drivers with new ones. The last of these were made when the last craftsman retired. No more originals are available. But a series of upgrades with fourth generation drivers are available."_
You are one luckily guy to own the elusive F's.
@@nebtheweb8885 I owned the first Ohm F's and after a while they couldn't be repaired without losing the high end, so I sold them.
@@jimfallow7173 I've actually had two sets of Fs. The ones that currently play I bought reconed from an individual in the Detroit area - probably 20 years ago. Any information I could pass along is way out of date.
I haven't looked recently, but there was a listing on EBay pre-covid in which several pairs of Fs were available. I don't know, though, if they were matched pairs.
Steve, Thanks for the great review on the Ohm 1000s. I first experienced the Ohm F back in 1973 at an affluent friend’s party. They were incredible then and they are even more incredible now. I finally got to realize my dream and I purchased a pair of 5000s and 2000s each in 2020. Even though I mostly listen to 2-channel music, I mounted the 2000 omni’s on the back wall 14” under the ceiling to get an ethereal, other-worldly experience from multi-channel recordings. This is what John Strohbeen advised. It is amazing to talk to the president of the company. Everyone at Ohm has been so kind and helpful (shout out to Evan). I would recommend the Ohms to anyone. Fantastic speakers. Now I’m thinking of getting back into vinyl with the U-turn Orbit.
Thanks - Patrick
I worked for Ohm Acoustics Corp. From 1973 to 1980. Interesting times. It's satisfying to know people still appreciate them.
Steve, great review as always. I'm been loving my Ohm Walsh 3000's I got in 2020. My decision to go that way was heavily influenced by your earlier review. The front wall of our room is all glass and my wife wanted the speakers out of the way in the corner, win-win! Not only do they look amazing.... better yet they sound fantastic filling a large long room with holographic sound. The volume of our room dictated the move up to a 3000 from the 2000 and we are glad we followed Ohm's (John's) recommendation. We are super happy with the speakers and Ohm was really great to work, even helping us with a custom white cabinet! Steve, your passion for music and gear have been a great inspiration to me....love your channel. Many thanks.
I'm trying to understand how you know you are glad you went with the 3k vs the 2k? Maybe the 2's would have worked or the 3's are overkill?
Great review as usual Steve! Been an owner of the Walsh 1XO for nearly four decades. They’re very clear and precise for both music and theatre, they look nice too. 🙏
My dad has had a set of ohms for decades. They’re amazing speakers for small spaces. We love them
I too am in the camp that says spatial performance matters most to perceived realism. Speaker to speaker changes in timber and dynamics, to my ears, don't mean as much to suspension of disbelief as the speakers ability to "breathe" the sound out into the room, without beaming it at you.
I think I share your opinion of the importance of “spatial performance.”
I wonder if sensitivities to sound are more variable than personal experience can explain, though.
So many people prefer horns over cones, electrostatics over planars…I’m pretty sure we key into specific aspects of sound quite individually.
What do you think?
I have no research to support my assumptions, by the way.
From my own experience I can say that Steve is right about the weight of the sound from an omnidirectional speaker: there is less of it. It has more of a see through quality. This also means that the high mids sound lush and this is great, especially because imperfections there don’t draw as much attention as they would in most other speaker designs. Meaning you can crank up omnidirectional speakers without too much repercussions and this also adds to their lifelike presentation. E.g. piano recordings really benefit from this.
Reminds me of DML panel speakers. Ambient dispersion with a ton of detail from any angle.
I haven’t heard an Ohm since the eighties. I remember being awed by the 3D presentation. I have been considering the Spacial Audio M4 ultra open baffle speaker but now you have peaked my interest. Thank you Steve!
@UC0043E2OMbM1NyJvLWieLDA Scam bot
I heard the Ohms pre-covid at Munich High-End expo (or was it Bonn, whatever). I remember being very impressed with the soundstage even though the sound wasn't without it's flaws. But definitely something I'd like to own.
I’ve had a pair of 1000s for 4 years. Love them. Even better since I recently added a sub. Unexpected bonus: although these were purchased for music they are excellent for home theater. No need for a center speaker because the cross-firing super tweeters create a phantom center that works regardless of where u sit. It’s subtle until you realize it, than it seems magical.
Also have Ohm micro omnidirectional HT rears which washes the room w/ sound, makes the speakers disappear and sound much more realistic.
Heh, I was wondering about exactly this! Thanks for the HT information as I was thinking "Hmm... 1000s upfront and Micros for the rear, but what about a center channel?" 👍
I've owned several pairs of Ohm speakers (C2, D2) over the years, and love the company. For the past 10 years I've been running the rare conventional flagship Ohm "Model I" (pronounced "eye"). The louder you play, the better they sound. You can visit the shop in Red Hook and John will let you listen to stuff and walk around the warehouse where they build stuff. If I had one criticism, it's that all of the new designs are... how should I put this... quite phallic in appearance. If they could solve that problem, I would upgrade my home theater. Love Ohm!
I listened to a pair of the original Ohm speaker being driven by Mac gear back before I could afford any of it. It was a revelation. Update to 15 years ago I bought a pair of the larger Ohm speakers. My search for speakers ended . For me anyway these are like listening to live music and I still get amazed every time I listen to them.
a couple of friends have recently purchased vintage Walsh and LOVE them! Love that they are made in America! Also, great hairdo, Steve! Lookin' good! ❤
Been waiting for a LONG time for this review. I feel the 2000 were a bit big for my space and wasn't sure if the 1000 would live up the expectations of the bigger brother. Thank you.
Hey Steve I have heard the Shahinians Omni directional speakers in a show powered by Rega amplification. It was like being at a live gig! Absolutely brilliant!
Bought a used set of Walsh 2’s and brought them to John at Ohm in Brooklyn for refurbishing with updated drivers about 15 years ago. Still playing great to this day. And have no desire to change them for something else. What I like most is the wide sweet spot they project with their full room sound. They sound great from anywhere in the room.
I graduated from Richard King high school in Corpus Christi Texas in 1972. They have a planetarium, really nice one. I remember going in there in 1970 and watching a presentation. They had a set of Omni directional speakers, I believe they were ESS speakers in there and with that dome ceiling it was magical.
I can only image, I love planetariums and omnidirectional speakers under the dome would be fantastic
Good enough for Hieronymus Bosch, good enough for me!
And me👍
I love my 2000
"I got a feeling that I can't let go!" 😃
I was thinking the same thing…
Also has good taste in music.
Love his Marantz turntable as well!
Ha, yes!!!
I just upgraded my Walsh ll's with the 2000 upgrade kit. Fantastic people to work with, and a very noticeable improvement!
Ohm's customer advice/sales service seems awesome! I've asked them some questions and they gave me really good advices and explanations.
I have been an Ohm devotee since the Tech Hifi days. My first pair were Ohm E's. Then I went to to L's for almost 40 years before I added L2's and C2's to my HT. In my stereo rig I have the the Super H's that John and his team refurbished and updated- I am extremely happy with these speakers, as they have great sonic range and warmth on all types of music. Nice to See John and his team get the recognition they deserve. The Walsh is still on my bucket list, but Steve many have said you need a sub-woofer? Thoughts? One of my good friends has a vintage pair of Walsh 2's with a sub and he loves it- he is a JBL guy too. I currently have a Rouge Sphinx 3- which has no sub-woofer RCA.
Another great review that triggers my curiosity. I am currently an Ortho Acoustic audiophile running my Larsen 8.2 up against the wall. I already get to enjoy a super wide soundstage without much need for room treatment. Now I really want to listen to a pair of Ohm's :)
I think that the most important aspect of this speaker, that it shares with a few other speakers - is that they are designed to be placed *near* the wall behind them - as you mention.
I first heard Ohm speakers in 1979 or ‘80 at the home of a girlfriend’s aunt. Lost the girlfriend shortly thereafter, but the incredible spaciousness of those speakers stuck in my brain somewhere.
I saw the review you did a couple of years ago, and investigated the company and it’s products thoroughly before plunking down the cash for a pair of 3000s.
I agree with everything you said-and the great thing about Ohm is the fact that size doesn’t matter, at least in terms of sound quality, as long as the speakers you select match your room size. Ohm is very helpful in assisting people who are unsure of their needs, and in my case talked me out of buying the 4000s.
Stellar imaging is the hallmark of the Ohm sound. The natural feeling of their sound when listening for extended periods eliminates fatigue and promotes involvement with the music. That’s the key for me-I don’t need the exaggerated thump in my chest produced by typical speakers when I listen at high volumes.
Yeah, there’s a lengthy wait time between purchase and delivery, but the rewards are worth it.
Not imaging but more like soundstage.
@@carlosoliveira-rc2xt , I’m unsure how to separate the two in my mind. How do you discern each yourself?
These remind me of the original Mirage OMNI / OM-9 speakers (omni directional) when they were at the height of audio in the 90's. Cool to see some of this tech coming back.
I own Mirage 1295i speakers....bipolar version with 100 watt subs built in. I have never been unimpressed with how open and airy they sound. They make my live records from way back when sound soooo good.
Steve, the Kenny Rankin music you talked about in this video is amazing. The sound is so real.
Anyone out there listen to barimba. That sing is what I use to evaluate equipment.
I'm Scandinavian and Aegir is most commonly pronounced "Ah - gear ". There are slight variations in pronunciation depending on which part of Scandinavia you go to and it varies even more widely around the world.
Great review -overview!! The first pair of speakers I bought were the Ohm H in 1981, which were a "box"speaker. I loved them.. but I was the only one who did!
The only Ohms I have ever listened to were the, if memory serves, the Walsh 5's. And now I am actively looking into Ohm speakers. The most phenomenal sound I can remember hearing.
Back in 1974, I was living in Victorville California. I went to a store in San Bernardino and bought an Ohm Walsh speaker set. I don't remember what model or even if there was more than one. I really liked the sound. I was driving them with a Hafler DH-220 amp and an AR SP3a-1 pre from a Linn Sondek LP12. There were three albums by Cat Stevens that got a lot of spin time back then. I thought I had reached audio nirvana. Later, when I lived in Belleville, Illinois I had those speakers stolen. I ended up replacing them with a set of Magnapan MG1's which I also liked a lot. I sure wish I still had the Ohm Walsh set. Coming from a music background where I was exposed to hearing live music all the time, it has been a lifelong search of mine to find a system that would come close to duplicating the live sound. These two speaker sets were the closest I have come so far, at least in a price range that I can afford. Very good on vocals and string instruments and really able to detect bad recordings.
My best friend and I both bought OHM Fs $800/pr, cause the As was too expensive $2000/pr and needed ungodly power. That was almost 50 years ago when we graduated from Elgin HS. F cones finally split so sent Fs back and bought Walsh 4s. Don't fire them up much but the Crown components still power up and it all sounds great. Now being Retired, time to sell them to someone who still is an audiophile!
Steve, I discovered you channel about a year ago and was really taken by your review of the Walsh 2000s. We have just one brick and mortar store where I live. I was there for some small item and noticed what appeared to be a pair of Ohms. I wasn’t really in the market for speakers, so didn’t pursue it further. A couple of months later I watched the review again and decided to go have a look on the very long odds that they were still there and that I could afford them. An hour later they were in my car and I couldn’t believe my luck. They’re Walsh 2000s in Cherry, used but in perfect condition, and were extremely reasonably priced. They’re everything you said they were. Probably, in your terms my “last speakers.” Now, I just need the perfect amp. Please let me know what that might be!
They're said to be "not fussy" about amps, but when I switched from a Schiit Vidar (which sounded good) to my LFD Zero Mk III integrated (an SET design), it made a big improvement!
I have never heard the Ohm omni speakers but have played with omni designs myself over the years. I recently started reworking the crossover on a pair of large, wide baffle, powered 4-way speakers I built in 2018. They have 3/4", 2", 8", and 12" drivers. I was never happy with the midrange sound these produced and decided to take another run at the digital crossover design last month. I had not measured the off axis response in the past and decided to start there with the redesign. I measured each driver at 0 and 90 degrees off axis. I was shocked to find the midrange array had a very ragged off axis response and a null at 3,400 Hz. So I decided to lower the crossover frequencies so that each driver would be cut off before it's 90 degree off axis response started to degrade. So now this speaker has an even response across the full forward 180 degrees all the way up to 12 kHz where the tweeter starts to beam a little. The sound and imaging was transformed. This speaker is now very much like an omni-directional speaker placed against the wall, but without the back wall reflection. Pretty amazing to find what can done to change the radiation pattern of a conventional speaker simply choosing different crossover points.
I am still on my Walsh 4's from 1985. (First released in the 1970's, when I read about them in stereo magazine). Walnut finish, flared trapezoidal shape. (Ohm went to cylindrical later;n apparently now rectangular.) Listed at the time at $1895 / pair; I got the floor demos at about half that. After 15 years I had to have them re-foamed, have worked perfectly ever since. Highly recommended for main stereo listening room and surround sound.
I owned a set of ohm 2x0s since the 90s ... playing them through a vintage Marantz model 15 (restored) a "musical design" sb preamp with all the mods and various sources since the 90s ... much of my gear i have had from paper route money since the 70s .... that said... have always enjoyed the ohms...and a few years back after thinking about upgrading the 2xo's for years which OHM has a wonderful trade/upgrade program (who else does that >?) .... I found a set of 1000's at what I would call a bargain.... Again... had owned and listened to the 2xo's though a "modest system" for "decades" and all i can say is "bam/whooooo" ... the 1000's are amazing... over and above fit and finish... they are every thing i came to love about the speakers (they have their own flavor)... but yes more flexible in placement... and simply "stunning".... props to OHM in keeping customers sooo long.. and sorry to hear John passed recently as... over the decades i called with a few questions about upgrandes and gosh darn he was the one whom picked up the phone.... If i ever one the lotto to build my dream system... I would order the top of the line in a heart beat with the appropriate gear.... and im sure and confident be happy to the end of my days..... and yeah side note... one of the things that always kept my interest was... they were easy to get a hold of and even if i just wanted to upgrade /re juv the crossovers on my old 2x0's ... they were totally cool with showing me/telling me what it would cost and "did i want to place an order".... I have some vintage klipsh KG1 bookshelfs "original owner" but can i get a new crossover board for them ? heck no... but still love the speakers... Ohm is diff a company so far in my decades of audio journeys..... love their products and love their custo service..... sooooooo glad you have kept them in your reviews :) xoxo
Great review Steve! I picked up a pair of barely used Ohm F speakers in the early ‘80s. Was amazed by how they made music sound. Still have them, but once the foam around the base of the drivers deteriorated, they have been stored away. Your review may finally push me to get them upgraded 😊
For a long time, I used paper tape to attach the cone to the surround. You have to do what you have to do, right?!
Updating them was the best thing I ever did, John was so gracious and replaced them with F4’s. That was about 10 years ago, never looked back. Talked to John today, he still answers the phone. Nicest guy ever!
I watched your last review and started looking for OHM or some other omnidirectional speakers minutes after. I don't have the money to spend on anything fancy and my space is cramped - and stereo equipment is lower on my "want" list than most (if not all) people watching your videos. I looked on eBay for "OHM Walsh" a bunch of times but everything was pricey and wouldn't work for me. One day I came across a listing for some very odd and very old Electrohome speakers made in Canada in the 1960's(?). The seller said the speaker behind the grill looked like a mini OHM Walsh driver. Everybody and their brother bid on these things because they were curious like me - I didn't win the speakers. I looked for these Electrohome speakers every once in a while for about a year and a half until one day I was watching UA-cam and thought "look now". I paused the video and went to eBay. A pair of the little (ugly) speakers were listed and at decent price. I had to do some simple modifications to the speakers and I flipped them upside down when I set them up on top of my DALI bookshelf speakers. They add just the right amount of upper end treble and open up the soundstage. Cymbals and high-hats sound sparkly and vocals sound clear. They're probably 50% of what these 1000s do but they work for me. Thanks for this and the last review.
A few years ago I listened to some MBL speakers that use a similar technology, one of the most amazing listening experiences, this has stuck with me since then...
Wow. Finally, a speaker which sounds best against the wall.
Another great review Steve. I love how many times I get a little glimpse into the creation and artistry of the music itself along with the equipment review. A while back you reviewed a pair of Spatial Audio Lab speakers and in that review mentioned a future review of a different modal. I am wondering if I missed the second go round with SAL or when that is coming?
Hoping for another Spatial speaker later this year or early 2023.
@@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac I have an older pair of Spatials and really love them. Would be excited to hear how some of their more expensive models measure up.
Thanks so much for this video review. I always look forward to your posts since I find them enjoyable, informative and entertaining. Ohm speakers have intrigued me for a long time, but info on them is hard to come by and I haven't had the opportunity to hear them in person. Another speaker that interests me is the Entry Series from ATC. About 2 years ago you mentioned them in the course of your review of the Wharfedale EVO 4.3 floorstanders however, I don't recall ever seeing them featured in your show. Would be interested to hear your take on these. Thanks!
Your vids are always so enjoyable 🍹
Didn't know they were still in biz. Nothing beats then for room filling sound, but fatiguing to listen to for extended periods. Great party speaker, not a critical listening relaxing on a rainy day speaker. I bet they'd be fun for HT too.
Nice one, Steve! Of the three classic US made speakers (Vandersteen, Magenpan, Ohm) - Ohms are by far the easiest to place. It's my understanding that they are quasi-omni directional, which is why one can put them against a wall. They sound just as you describe, and in my opinion do certain things that only much more expensive speakers can do. Also to note, John Strohbeen is great. I went to the shop in Brooklyn to pick up my speakers and he answered all of my questions and was so nice to deal with.
Owning Ohm C2 speakers for a couple years. Love them
Viewer system was REALLY visually COOL! …and…as always…THANKS for the music!
I have been a fan ohm since I can remember.
Good show Steve 👏 bravo
First time ever experienced hearing the W2000AU's and was totally blown away by these speakers.
I have to close my eyes and feel where the sound was coming from and honestly couldn't tell., it was just everywhere and what drove me mad was how the hell can the speakers be on the corner right on the wall with a large table blocking it partially on it's front and still sound supremely excellent.
Heard the OHM Walsh play recording of Grace Jones. They arc the sound up and around the speakers. Amazing.
Hi Steve, if you want to be really impressed by a speaker with great sound at a lower price than the OHM Walsh 1000 then I urge you to try the Duevel Planets - omnidirectional speakers, made in Germany, around USD1000 - I believe that you have an importer on the US. I have a pair and they are just amazing, au pair with the description that you have made for the OHM's. Keep on the good work :)
You worked the session with Kenny Rankin? The man has a voice of gold! Solid GOLD!
4:30 what is the super tweeter ? same as before, a $1 Little pizo horn ( very directional as you said) These 5 Lsi7 book shelves by Polk are the most accurate bi-amped with 300 watts times 5 ! I remember how exciting it was to first listen to multi directional smeared rough response level output stereo ohms but for actual accuracy it's more of a kids speaker.
Wow. Yet another speaker that sounds like being there!
I am definitely found the speaker to my liking. Got them couple of years ago. Still singing with basX amp.
I like today’s system of the day. I think it’s very well thought out and I’m noticing more open baffle speakers lately.
When I was young I had an Ohm subwoofer. Worked great but I could not afford the Walsh stuff. Wonder about some of the low profile brands that are maybe low production, and have become obscure because they fall off the radar of the big magazines or fall out of favor with the market somehow. Some of these old companies are still selling and have websites if you know about them. But no one is talking about them. I am talking companies that once had reviews and a reputation, not some really obscure basement builders or something.
One of the most awesome experiences so far for me were the Bloomline Omniwaves.
It really blows your mind if the speakers are in front of you and you hear fireworks above your head!
In quite a large room too! Just crazy.
Heard an early OHM setup at a neighbor's apartment around 74/75. Many 👍👍👍
Have you ever listened to Larsen speakers Steve? Not Omni directional but almost identical looking to the Ohm’s and they have to go up against the wall. By the way Duevel speakers from Germany are Omni directional and are serious competition for the Ohm’s.
Nice review Steve. I've had my MicroWalsh Talls since 2004. They are so enjoyable and do so much right I wouldn't get rid of them unless moving up to the 1000's (or maybe 2000's). Other speakers have come and gone, a few have stayed, but none of them present music quite like the Ohm's.
Hi James. How do they sound at "background" i.e. lowish volumes? Do they need a certain amount of juice before you hear the benefit that owners rave about, and - only if you know - might this be "worse" for some older Ohm Walsh models? Thanks.
I have a set of ohm speakers i love them can not live without them now!
Why is the Audiophiliac my favourite UA-camr about audio? I think it's because he has the most soul and the most interesting personality. I always try to put it in these words: Would you like to share the room with him? Definitely.
What a stunning viewer system, love it! ❤️
Steve, have you ever listened to Stig Carlsson's Orto-acoustical speakers? I believe that the fundamental Carlsson approach still is found in the Larsen series of speakers. The way you are describing these Ohms seems very similar to that experience. I inherited a pair of Carlssons (from the '70s) and use them as 2-channel stereo listning but found that they work really well as 2.0 sound for home theatre. If you still have your Ohms, put your tv in between them and give it a go.
Thanks Eric, never heard his speakers, but I'll try to get some Larsens in.
The lxmini design by Siegfried Linkwitz has an omni radiation pattern from the mid forties up to the crossover point around 700 and transitions to a cardioid then dipole. Similar way of illuminating the room.
Not enough people have experienced these types of speakers. You and z reviews know whats up.
I remember the Ohm A from my early employment at Hi Fi Sales in Mesa AZ, it was the most surreal speaker i had heard. Voice coil ran cherry- red and didn't protest.
As I walked into a Tech HiFi store in the Detroit area, I was confident I was hearing Fs. The sound was so full. Imagine my surprise when I rounded the corner and saw a pair of As. Those were the ones playing. A set of Fs was next to them. I then switched to them. As much as I loved the Fs, the As were of another magnitude. The Fs just couldn't compete. But then, again, the price difference was about the same magnitude!
I truly admire and adore OHM LOUDSPEAKERS. The brand name says it all. In this school of loudspeaker design; I truly admire GRADIENT, ELIPSON, CABASSE SPHERE and DUEVEL🎉🎉🎉 Thanks Steve 🫵✨💎📢♾🙏🏼
I remember the OHM F. It way too big and expensive, but I was still impressed. My budget at the time dictated the OHM E - the sealed box 8” 2 way bookshelf speaker.
Music for airports will also sound amazing on those.. I'd love to hear them. Not heard from you in a while as they stopped notifications
I have the vintage Ohm frs-15 speakers with the up-graded speakers. Paired with a Marantz receiver and a 6100 turntable. Un-believable sound stage. Try any of the albums by 'Yello' especially the ones with horns. Great albums to test speakers.
Last show i saw them at in LA. They drove w outlaw receiver & a mediocre source - would love to hear again
Had a pair of Ohm Walsh 200 Mk II. Had to sell them because I lived in a condo and walls were thin. Became a headphone audiophile. But I wanted to comment that the Walsh speakers have a character that you could play them loud, but it never felt like the sound was pounding you, beating you, assaulting you. No. Because the sound is omnidirectional, it's more relaxing, effortless, and enjoyable. You can just keep turning the volume up and up and up and it just gets better and better without that feeling like "Yikes, turn that volume down." I've experienced the same thing with HiFiMan headphones.
Most if not all omnidirectional speakers I've listened to, where projecting music the opposite way: The orchestra was there, at the level of the speakers and maybe a bit in front and behind them and the singer was in the background. Like being in a club and listening to the orchestra while drinking your whiskey in the bar. Great speakers for psychedelia, electronic music, Pink Floyd and Vangelis, atmospheric and with great depth and height but certainly not for projection freaks in any way.
I've never listened to the American Ohm speakers and I really wish they are different because they are truly beautiful and aristocratic.
As for the rest of us, we can steal a bit of that openess by placing beads in the front corners of our conventional speakers. The best 1 dollar trick which Steve has never mentioned...
I have omni direction speakers which are Mirages OM10. They bounce off the wall also. I love them to the point I had one of them fixed. It need a new voice coil. The apartment I am in now has thin wall and I have issue is how detail the speaker sounded. In my last apartment you heard how detail treble sounded. In this place how the mid range sound if that makes sense. I had celestion at first but you are right. The sound stage sound fuller. I may upgrade since my speakers is 20 years old to those you reviewed
Wht would you think of using Ohms for a home theater setup?
Ok Steve ... I now want a pair of these. Damn you Steve ...lol
Kenny Rankin’s voice was so pleasant and easy-going. I don’t think there are too many people who wouldn’t like his sound.
I remember helping my friend buying a system at crazy 80 close to 50 years ago and he got a pair of Ohm speakers.
I love my ohm Walsh F’s and Walsh 2’s. I’m a big fan of Ohm !
They say you what your hear is about 60% the room, so treating the room is very important. I wonder how the Ohm's deal with that? Does it mean that the room is less important to them than other speakers? Thanks, Steve.
I have an old pair of Mirage Omni OM150’s (with the “Star Trek” diffuser) and I can very much appreciate what you’re saying about the spatial quality of the sound. My question is do these kinds of speakers negate the need for room treatments?
My husband just made me buy some rugs to make the room less “live?” That’s it and they sound so good.
Excellent question! I hope some experts respond.
I seriously considered the 5000 Ohms before I got my Legacy Focus SE.
I bet those OHM sound a lot like my Linkwitzlab LX-Minis, amazing soundstage!
I've had a pair of ohm 1000s for about 4 years. I can't imagine having any other speakers for my music tastes: chamber, piano solo and four hand, and for something different, opera. I also have a love for "historical" recordings, another way of saying monaural. This is where I think the Ohms are especially revelatory. Try the 1957 Knappertsbusch Ring from Bayreuth for a true "you are there" experience.
Where do you have then positioned? Well out into the room, or near the wall?
I have them about 14" away from the wall, on either side of a large stand with equipment and a 55" TV on top. I also have them sitting on 12x12" rolling plant stands. The extra rise helps due to my listening position and a bass resonance issue with the room itself.
I have a pair of Walsh 4’s from the 70’s which are behind my listening area. I use them with a pair of Forte 4’s up front and the effect is the Ohms pull the sound stage created by Klipsch’s into my lap.
@Textez-moi sur télégramme 👉TheiCollectiongiveaway Stop the spam numbnuts or I will report you!
You should try to review Larsen speakers, they are also meant to be close to the wall.
Thanks Steve! - I have known of Ohm for decades, and I love the "omnidirectional" design concept.
My question is, that if the track was not mixed with a similar technology in mind, how natural is the actual sound going to be?
Just a thought... - Cheers!
In addition... How would you rate the Ohm speaker for home theater applications?
I think this style of speaker (weatherproofed) would be excellent outdoors in the open on a deck - What do you think? - Thanks!
I picked up on Ohm when I saw Zeos's review of the 2000s. Besides his levels of freaking out I had never seen from him before, the sound demo he put out of the 2000's were incredible. Not that it sounded special coming out of my headphones, but by how close listening to him recording in his apartment sounded to the actual tracks he was playing.
Now I don't have the Ohm Walsh Talls, I saw a different video showcasing the Ohm C2's and Model H's, their old bookshelf speakers that came out in the late 70s/early 80s. They just looked so different. Then the pandemic hit and while going stir crazy I called up Ohm and talked to John himself and ordered a pair of refurbished Model H's. They arrived 7 months later and I have loved them since. They still image like standard bookshelf speakers, but their voice is unique to Ohm, and I love how they sound. I seldom turn the sub on anymore because the 12" radiator puts out so much low end. They do drop off after 30 Hz, but that 8" driver can sing.
Love Ohm, enjoyed your take on them! Glad they made it through the pandemic and hope they stick around for years to come.
I had omf's o h m f back in 1974 and just like the absolute sound review said there was an coloration coloration aaaaahh coloration compared to other popular speakers of the time like the dq was dq 10 and the quad panels and even the magna pan magnet playing ours magnaplay magna planars so I sold mine after a year and even though being surround sound they did not provide the most accurate sound available. but they were very interesting to look at and analyze the designer
I love you yanks " if you have a small room, 10 to 12 ft" so the average UK front room then. Thanks. I feel blessed cos mine is 13 by 16.
I had the Larson pyramid's in 1973 - they were amazing !
These are intriguing: since the majority of a speaker’s sound in a room is reflected anyway, Ohm’s embrace the room and appear to make normal positioning guidelines and room treatments (and I assume, room correction) moot
Any comment on the low volume performance? I've heard these speakers prefer louder volumes.