YES!!!!!! A speaker shootout with affordable speakers and specific song comparisons. These videos will always be my favorites! I really don’t care who the final “winner” is. That is up to each person’s taste. I just love hearing the differences in the specific areas or speaker performance during certain song passages. I like hearing what Randy’s preference is but it doesn’t mean he is right or wrong. More, please!
So Amazon messed up and had marked down the ELAC Debut 3.0 DB53-BK to $259.98 for 10hrs. They were supposed to mark down the Debut 2 to that price. I am still waiting on them, but cannot believe I got them for such a steal. Cannot wait to hear these things. Hope the 5" are almost as good as the 6".
Being an audiophile of many years, and a speaker modifier/designer with a strong background in EE, I can tell you that the folded ribbon operates by the same principle as an amt tweeter, so yes, it IS an amt tweeter. All the rest is marketing hype.
@@robinkleinsteuber5217 hey my friend bought all the pieces not assembled to build out speakers. He did it with no research. He’s located near Nashville hmu if this interest you and would be able to help or give advice
@bluelithium9808 Yes. That's why they added the word "folded". I don't actually like that word at all. An AMT is better described as a 'pleated' (i.e., accordian-like) diaphragm, which then orthogonically shifts both the magnetic field and the motion of the conductors by 90 degrees. This accordian shape then "squeezes" air out at a velocity higher than the velocity of the diaphragm conductors. Much greater sensitivity results compared to any PM (ie.,'quasi-ribbon') or any 'true ribbon' would.
@@robinkleinsteuber5217 much of this is ignorance. They see something flat and it's a ribbon. You can fold or pleat a ribbon. It's not going to produce sound ergo the AMT isn't any ribbon operationally.
At 18:41 you do what you do best and you may be the only one who does this. I'm not sure I should put it into words. But you're good man. Very good. Also earlier, when you describe the way speakers "hang back" is very helpful.
Criminals can do legitimate audio reviews, too. Or even people who are criminals, but we can't tell that they are from their video acting. Is Tom Cruise or Roger Ebert a good person..?
I played that, "Why so sad" song you were talking about on my system after you described the part with super low bass! My 2 SVS SB2000S and JBL L100s classics were definitely getting a workout. 👌
The only thing I do not care for is the rear ports. I mostly prefer the sound bass signature of a passive radiator over a port on speakers. Can place them closer to a wall as well.
Great video. Appreciate the description of sound profiles as something easily understood. MoP is an all time record that still blows my mind! Kill Em All is also in regular rotation. You should listen to Phantom Lord next time you feel a need to get fired up! Cheers
People who pointed out the importance of the music you listen to definitely had a valid point! Out of curiosity, I gave that "Why So Serious?" track a listen, and WOW! My subwoofer responded to that song in ways I’ve never experienced before.
I would really like to hear where you place the Q150 compared to these newer speakers? I just picked up an open box excellent condition set that look brand new for $300 from BB. I know you’re a fan of them. Also looking forward to you getting the new Q line in at some point. My first set of Kef’s and I’m pretty happy with them. I wasn’t sure what to expect but I really like them. I was planning on returning them if I didn’t like them. I think I’m going to have to try to sell some of my other speakers though. Got my RP-600M ii for $300 brand new a month ago. Might be time to offload the JBL Studio 530 and old Polk Monitor 5’s. My other speakers I own and have compared are RP-600M ii, Studio 530, old B&W DM602 S2 and B&W M1 ii, old Polk Monitor 5’s and T15’s, Jamo S801/S803, old DCM CX-17 (these are garage duty with a Pioneer SX-440 that I’ll be recapping soon), and a few others that I don’t remember right off the top of my head. The Kef meet almost all of my criteria for the sound I like. I’m just wondering if I should try some Elac speakers. I get the sense that you and I might have similarities in what it is we like.
I've been a big fan of the Heil AMT tweeter since as a 17-year old I purchased a pair of ESS AMT 1B speakers. I assume Oskar Heil had a patent on them and an exclusive agreement with ESS back in those days as you really didn't see this type of tweeter in other brands. They got good reviews as I especially remember the late & great Julian Hirsch's in the '77 August (I think) Stereo Review. FFW to today, with no patent restraining the use of the AMT design they are definitely more than validated as to their greatness. It is almost impossible to count how many makers of speakers use AMT tweeters in their lines as they offer so much detail, clarity, and wide band-response related to size. They do need to be implemented wisely as they are dipolar radiators which, as used here, have to be damped well from their rear 180º phase radiation. Emotive has been using these for now well over a decade successfully. I'm not surprised in your findings here. The beauty of the ESS AMT 1B speakers (currently still available in much the original form often by special order) is this speaker uses the largest currently available AMT driver in an open baffle dipolar design which seems to let them "breathe" a wider soundstage when positioned with care. Some audiophiles over the years have often designed their own home-brewed speakers using the large Heil AMT made by ESS in attempts to improve the integration of this driver as the AMT 1B's mated it to a 12-inch woofer that would handle the lower mid-range. Personally, I have no reservations of still in 2024 the ESS AMT 1B's do much more on a very high level than they get wrong. I think the low cross-over point blended with a, relatively, fast and light 12-inch woofer works fine. Based on your review, and my personal experience with AMT tweeters, I would have to give the Emotive speakers a big nod over these very respectable contenders. As in many things, it is often those last few dollars (yes, the Emotiva speakers cost a little more) that really deliver the best in long-term satisfaction.
Another great video. I really like the comparisons. Watching the individual videos about each speaker gives the viewer a lot of information, but without being able to personally listen them all side by side, a video like this really makes a difference. A comparison to the Q Acoustics 5020 and Sonus Faber Lumina II Amator, some of your other favorite speakers, would be a great follow up. What are you gaining (or maybe losing) by spending double and triple? That would show what a great value the JBL, Emotiva, and Elacs are, but also Q Acoustics and Sonus Faber may be something worth saving for or an aspiring for a future upgrade. You may realize these speakers are all you really need and want to invest in other gear instead.
Luv your Channel-been listening for probably 4-6 years. Sandman was awesome, went to that concert. Also had the Metalica band on one of my flights and had a chance to talk to the older dude who at the time seemed like he had an aphro hairdo. I was a flight attendant in Phoenix where some of the band lived at that time back in the early 90's.
Yeah, I recently went on a search for new bookshelf speakers for my office set up. Watched all these cheapaudioman videos singing the praises of the Emotiva Xb2 which got me really interested in purchasing them... only to find they seem to never be in stock.
AMT tweeters use a pleated diaphragm made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film to move air laterally. Folded ribbon tweeters use a thin film diaphragm folded into an accordion shape and placed in a symmetrical magnetic field. - AMT's reportedly have a wider frequency range (can be used as mid-range as well) and are less fragile than folded ribbons.
Thank for this, i was between the elac 3s and the ultra evolutions, i didnt wanna pay that much for 15 speakers but buy once cry once. Appreciate the review.
@cheapaudioman Thursday Speaker Shootout! Where's the monkey and the shaky table? Very very very good vid. One thing I figured out listening to your channel. I would have sworn that I like more treble ... come to figure out I lean toward a warmer sound. I may be considering the Elac ... yummy! I know you don't always keep more speakers to compare, but this is super reminiscent of your early days of fun. Thanks Mr. Randy. 🙃
Perhaps the differences in these three speakers points to the rule that the best $1000 speaker is two $500 speakers or the best $1500 speaker is three $500 speakers. Of course, this is not true if your budget is only $500, but there are some great speakers out there in the $200-$300 range.
I think that the 5 best Heavy Metal albums are: 1) Black Sabbath- Mob Rules 2)Dio-Holy Diver 3)Metal Church(S/T) 4) Slayer-South Of Heaven 5) Metallica-Kill’em All I tend to favor more dynamic analog recordings with less compression and more dynamic slam to rip your face off. Like Mob Rules. Sign Of The Southern Cross will expose lesser rigs right away, especially at high volumes. The drums will blow your woofers across the room with the dynamics that Martin Birch recorded Vinnie’s kit with. The original Warner or Vertigo CD is fine. The Deluxe Edition from Sanctuary sounds great too. I like a laid back midrange since I play at such high volumes, with various NAD 80 to 150 watt power amps that are underrated, and will push 2 ohms with a kilowatt per channel. And they sound smooth for their class. I’m thinking the Elac would be the best overall for heavy rock and metal? Would the Polk R200 better them? Curious. It’s always a crap shoot with amp/speaker matching. Sometimes it winds up different than what you would expect when you match. Just as a side note , does that Wiim have a very high resolution digital volume control? I would think at under full scale max, that it would certainly affect the resolution in the digital domain. I tend to always use analog preamps with a good dac as the source. Like the Parasound D/AC 2000 Ultra. That unit will show you that 44.1/16 bit is glorious enough for anything. Thanks for the great comparison Randy! Which one is least fatiguing at Jet Turbine volumes?
Best Metal songs: Iron Maiden - To Tame a Land Metallica - Master of Puppets Tool - Vicarious Anthrax - I Am the Law Slayer - Reign in Blood Fight me about it! 😂
Love the speaker shootout! Great video, Randy. I think I'd personally lean towards the Emotive speakers, as I do like clarity and detail. But they have been out of stock almost since the moment they came out.
Randy if you’re really wanting to give your audience the best value in speakers I would really recommend throwing the $265 CerwinVega! LA165 up against these also great speakers!
@@vishaalgargi this is partly true. They made allot of models that were very good at playing loud and keeping there clarity. But many measured ok and sound really good. The new LA is more of an audiophile sound than a party sound, and it’s dirt cheap!
@@vishaalgargilong story short, CV is a whole company again. Whole because they were separated and the home speaker segment was sold off. CV owns it again. They’ve re-entered the market with something that might be worthy of consideration. Doesn’t get any recognition anywhere and they don’t offer it for sale many places. Basically direct or Amazon. You can find it on other sites but it’s sold 3rd party.
Do you think that the ELAC DB53 (5.25" driver) would be much of a downgrade from the DB63? Would it be closer to the JBL Stage 250 or still better on tracks such as the ones in the video? Great video, thanks!!
Randy, what would you tell a person who typically listens under 70db ? It seems that factor would influence the recommendations. For example, what if the JBL hangs just fine under 70db at listening position and offers good clarity, tonal balance, and detail at lower volumes ??
I do not agree with your comment "all the cymbals, crack of the guitars, and finger slides, and things you just don't hear on the Elac's". I'm assuming you are exaggerating or mean that it's not as prominent as Emotiva. Otherwise I would take a measurement because there is something wrong. I've listened to both and there's no issue hearing everything from Metallica on the Elac's. The XB2 has a definite rising treble which is what you are probably hearing, but I find a bit tiring unless knocked down. I compared Emotiva XB2 (lucky to get a pair), Elac Debut 3.0, and SVS Ultra Evolution nanos, along with center channels. I ended up keeping the Elac's. The Elac's larger sound stage and balance was the deciding factor for me. Elac 1, Emotiva a close 2nd, SVS 3. I was surprised as I thought for sure SVS would come out ahead, but not in my room sitting 11ft away.
I, personally, 😂 regardless of your STELLAR reviews Randy The Man .. going to be no doubt be surprised 🤯 when I have a chance to interview them. But I ALWAYS 💕 and appreciate your efforts regardless of the price. I have no expectations beyond surprise...and if my ears love it. I don't require nor seek the least for or the most for because I'm just looking to "fill my soul" with the happiness of music and couldn't give 2 Do Do's what others think.
I already own Enotiva B1+ with BasX A2 amp, SMSL DAC. That’s my office set up, love it. I will now be purchasing the ELAC for my bedroom set up. Because it’s the polar opposite. I have the clarity and now want the dynamic exciting sound!
@ I am super happy with them! The bass is so much tighter and punchy. Sounds great with all my vinyl and with Tidal streaming service. Also sounds soooo good with movies. I am very very happy and they were a nice upgrade from the RP-50m from Klipsch
Love me some Thursday 🤔 Speaker Shoot Outs. I think the unicorn 🦄 had too much partying and couldn't hang with you, Randy. Great Job in comparing these speakers.
Best Metal Metallica - Battery Suffocation - Thrones Of Blood Anthrax - Caught In A Mosh Iron Maiden - The Number Of The Beast Mr. BUNGLE - Anarchy Up Your @~us
Hooked up my new Elacs this afternoon and wow! They're connected to an Emotiva amp and WiiM Ultra. If you want two tracks that illustrate how awesome they are, listen to: 1. Breakway - by Big Pig 2. Low Rider - War It's just shocking the bass and treble these little speakers produce!
I play on some old 90s boston accoustics towers and the range is 40-20000hz. They surprisingly slam pretty hard on the bass considering a 7.5" woofer. I am a huge fan of cerwin vegas. My dream is the XLS dual 15" speaker.
As an enjoyer of many different forms of audio (albeit still relatively new to the hobby), I've definitely found I prefer a brighter/V-shaped leaning sound towards IEM's, a more balanced sound towards headphones, and a warmer, calmer sound in speakers. If I want hyper-detail, I want the sound right next to my ears, but If I just want big sound, that's where speakers shine for me. Seems like the Debut 3.0's fit the bill the most out of these, in this instance.
Guys. If you have one of those entry level audiophile speakers, you don't need to upgrade to a newer version. What you need to do is to go to an upper class speaker. The difference between those entry levels and the ones in the 800-1000 price range is insane.
Oooh...those monoblocks. I had them in my cart recently. Didn't pull the trigger, because I couldn't find enough (subjective) reviews/comments about them. Can't wait for your take Randy! You're my guy! BTW they'd be driving Linton 85th speakers...
I have jnog2 with 4493 chip. I upgraded to Burson v7 vivid on my RCA and WOW... what a difference. If you have that 4499 chip, you will be thrilled with upgraded op amps.
I am pretty sure I heard Dan Laughman say on their podcast that they were going to release different finishes in their new speaker line. It would be nice if they would do that I would like to see a white finish.
Best Heavy Metal Records: 1. Slayer - South of Heaven 2. Metallica - Master of Puppets 3. Judas Priest - Unleashed in The East 4. Black Sabbath - Paranoid 5. Iron Maiden - Killers
I won't disagree with you on the Master of Puppets thing, but personally, I go back and forth on it with Ride the Lightning and AJ4A. All 3 are beyond stellar albums
To bad we can't hear the speakers, maybe pick something you can play without having to pay for it so we can hear it. Master is great stuff, Ride the Lightening as well as the first Metallica kill em all are all stellar to me. Black Sabbath heaven and hell,mob rules along with Dio's first couple albums,iron maiden piece of mind, Megadeth first two albums, anthrax first few, motorhead pick one, Judas priest screaming for vengeance, scorpions black out and love at first sting, Rush 2112 moving pictures, Pantera cemetery gates, AC DC back in black, the list goes on and on and on !👍 Thanks, just found your channel and subbed, now I need to find a sound system somewhere.
Me too! I have Triangle Bro 3 simply because they were $200 less expensive than Q Acoustics 30's. I'm now evaluating these Elac's but all the actual paid customer reviews have been problematic for the speakers. EVERYONE who has actually spent precious dollars on Elac DB63 need to speak up. Are they the real deal...OR not?
Would be great to hear about Thonet and Vander bookshelf speakers from your perspective, even a review. I live in part of the world where 95% of the brands/models you review are not available here sadly. Kurbis or Vertrag models for example. Thanks
Can I actually use a bookshelf speaker in a bookshelf when it has a rear port? I want to replace my front left/right speakers in my ceiling with bookshelf speakers. They will be located in a bookshelf with the ports fairly close to the rear of the bookshelf. In this room we are mainly watching TV/Movies, very seldom music. The height of the Elac would just fit. Most people I see mounting these on a stand in open air. I don't want and "booming" or echoing.
JBL bookshelf speakers always seem require a sub for main speaker duty. I do prefer their sound, but would likely get the Elacs for stand alone. Great review. I think 4-500 (formerly 150-350) is the sweet spot for near-great sounding speakers. Great review.
Wharfedale EVO’s versus ELAC Carinas, vs Martin Logan Foundation series would be a huge AMT battle royal at a reasonable price point. Maybe squeeze a Golden Ear model in too!
1) BLACKENED - Metallica (there is a reason they named their label - Blackened Recording Inc.) 2) SEASONS IN THE ABYSS - Slayer 3) HOLY WARS … THE PUNISHMENT DUE - Megadeth 4) WE DIE YOUNG - Alice In Chains 5) OVERDOSE - AC/DC
Hilarious!!❤😂 Keep going man! Okay. Now I'm gonna focus on the video. Yours may be the ONLY introductions I listen to. And I never have to put your videos on faster playback speed! Awesome!
Randy, I am surprised that JBL did do a black spray or black wrap to match the baffle. To me all black & grey speakers is my visual of classic look on speakers.
Great video as always. I recently bought the little Reisong A10 and I’m trying to the pair the best possible bookshelf speaker that I can for $500 ish. Your video on the amp convinced me to pull the trigger but I’m worried about picking a speaker that is harder to “drive”. Any help on what you would choose at that “cheaper” budget for speakers would be so great!
I guess if you did buy the two pairs of speakers, you could use a quality receiver and plus one pain in the stereo main and the other pain in the Zone two stereo sockets so you could easily switch between the speakers without doing anything other than pressing a button on the receivers control.
Which of them for a particularly large, difficult room? I'm having a terrible time deciding on the Elac Debut 3.0 and Emotiva XB2. I have custom home theater towers & center with RAAL ribbon tweeter and am a huge fan of the mid & high crispness and clarity without being overly bright, which appears to be a characteristic of the XB2. However, these will go in my cabin's great room, which is just awful, terrible, no good for perfect sound. 40'x24', with 22' ceiling, one side glass, a big stone fireplace in the middle. I can't get speaker separation, I can't plan for depth, and I certainly can't get enough subs. That said, with the right speakers (currently tiny but beautiful sounding Emp E41-B with SVS SB-1000 sub) I can get a very pleasing sound both nearfield and across the room. I'm a music photographer and have no specific genre phobias, although I tend to listen to jam bands, newgrass, jamgrass, with some indie and classic rock slipped in from time to time. Anyway, after extensive viewing (including this video about 6 times now) and reading I've decided the soundstage and warmth from the Elac may be a better fit in my space, and wonder if you have an opinion to share. Thanks.
i found my deal 3 years ago on some adam audio t5v's. Got them both for 170 euros used(in new state off some guy with dj aspirations lol) paired it with an active subwoofer and in my room sounds really expensive
OK, I have a pair Klipsch 6000F Il , klipsch RP 500 C ll center and the speedwoofer 10S MKll that you convinced me to get. Hell I just bought all the stuff because of you, it was nice to get the subwoofer for $404 anyway my question is what do you think would be good . The reason I’m asking I don’t know too much. I’m stuck back in the 80s and this is my first new stereo system I bought since then but surround sound rear is usually voices or a bottle breaking or traffic or something I know so music so I’m not quite sure that I really have to spend a lot of money on rear speakers or not or just go ahead and get some more klipschs am I totally wrong just be kind and tell me what to get all this other stuff working fantastic of course I have it hooked up Yamaha RX-V6A
Randy, by chance is there a way you can do a review of M-Audio speakers and see if they are appropriate to be used as stereo speakers? Model #’s AV32; BX8 D3; BX5 D3; BX4; BX3;
Listen all these speakers are fine but not my choice. Ive been using Vanatoos and you dont need a sub. Besides being programmable and you can download software upgrades. Alittle over 500 bucks and not chinesium crap. American made right down to the cabinets. ive had all those speakers, either they are too high,lacks bass or visa versa. If your listining to his Alanis M they are great. But when you really need to drive them. CRAP. Vanatoos and speakers like them are correctly tuned. When a speaker is not thats why you have the - too high or muddy effect. Remember your gear no matter how expensive it will sound like crap if not paired correctly.
Hey first of all I want to say I like your audiophile knowledge and I wanted to ask a question that I’m more than sure you will have the answer right of the back…….. I’m interested getting into DAC streaming and I like the eversolo A8 and my question is what A/B or D amp should I run? Also I like the klipsch speakers (mainly because the way they look I haven’t heard them before) which left, right and powers sub should I run… I WANT IT DISRESPECTFULLY LOUD LOL…. Can you help me it would be highly appreciated Strae from Los Angeles
MoP gets my vote, for sure. You should check out some classic metal sound’s created in the 21st century. These all-female bands from Japan will make you feel young again: BAND-MAID, LOVEBITES, NEMOPHILA, and HAGANE.
Yes! A speaker shootout! I miss these from the early days of the channel - more of this please! 😊
Yes please go back to the original Cheap Audio Man.
YES!!!!!! A speaker shootout with affordable speakers and specific song comparisons. These videos will always be my favorites! I really don’t care who the final “winner” is. That is up to each person’s taste. I just love hearing the differences in the specific areas or speaker performance during certain song passages. I like hearing what Randy’s preference is but it doesn’t mean he is right or wrong.
More, please!
So Amazon messed up and had marked down the ELAC Debut 3.0 DB53-BK to $259.98 for 10hrs. They were supposed to mark down the Debut 2 to that price. I am still waiting on them, but cannot believe I got them for such a steal. Cannot wait to hear these things. Hope the 5" are almost as good as the 6".
Being an audiophile of many years, and a speaker modifier/designer with a strong background in EE, I can tell you that the folded ribbon operates by the same principle as an amt tweeter, so yes, it IS an amt tweeter. All the rest is marketing hype.
@@robinkleinsteuber5217 hey my friend bought all the pieces not assembled to build out speakers. He did it with no research. He’s located near Nashville hmu if this interest you and would be able to help or give advice
Indeed. An AMT also is not operationally a ribbon. It's also the only driver I'm aware of that moves perpendicular to the listener.
@bluelithium9808 Yes. That's why they added the word "folded". I don't actually like that word at all. An AMT is better described as a 'pleated' (i.e., accordian-like) diaphragm, which then orthogonically shifts both the magnetic field and the motion of the conductors by 90 degrees. This accordian shape then "squeezes" air out at a velocity higher than the velocity of the diaphragm conductors. Much greater sensitivity results compared to any PM (ie.,'quasi-ribbon') or any 'true ribbon' would.
@@robinkleinsteuber5217 much of this is ignorance. They see something flat and it's a ribbon. You can fold or pleat a ribbon. It's not going to produce sound ergo the AMT isn't any ribbon operationally.
@@bluelithium9808 Yes. Electracoustically much different. Yes. Have a great day!
At 18:41 you do what you do best and you may be the only one who does this. I'm not sure I should put it into words. But you're good man. Very good. Also earlier, when you describe the way speakers "hang back" is very helpful.
@@blinkingmanchannel thank you so much for supporting the channel and the kind words, my friend
Criminals can do legitimate audio reviews, too. Or even people who are criminals, but we can't tell that they are from their video acting. Is Tom Cruise or Roger Ebert a good person..?
At the price they are sitting at, those details that separate them really matter. Good review Randy.
I played that, "Why so sad" song you were talking about on my system after you described the part with super low bass!
My 2 SVS SB2000S and JBL L100s classics were definitely getting a workout. 👌
The only thing I do not care for is the rear ports. I mostly prefer the sound bass signature of a passive radiator over a port on speakers. Can place them closer to a wall as well.
Completely agree.
Agree, radiators or front ports work better in my room.
Thank you for honoring my request for going back to thumping the driver.
Yes! The woofer thump is mandatory! :D
Great video. Appreciate the description of sound profiles as something easily understood. MoP is an all time record that still blows my mind! Kill Em All is also in regular rotation. You should listen to Phantom Lord next time you feel a need to get fired up! Cheers
Nice work - I understand the differences between them. I also appreciate the list of recommended products in the description. Keep it up!
YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!! Speaker shootout!!!!! Vs. Wharfedale Denton 80th or Diamond 12.2???? I need your thoughts. Thank you!
"the crystal method - high roller" was always one of my test songs. that song will tell you some things about a set of speakers
Thanks Randy for an awesome Speaker Shootout! These are now on my list! 👍👍👍
People who pointed out the importance of the music you listen to definitely had a valid point! Out of curiosity, I gave that "Why So Serious?" track a listen, and WOW! My subwoofer responded to that song in ways I’ve never experienced before.
I would really like to hear where you place the Q150 compared to these newer speakers? I just picked up an open box excellent condition set that look brand new for $300 from BB. I know you’re a fan of them. Also looking forward to you getting the new Q line in at some point. My first set of Kef’s and I’m pretty happy with them. I wasn’t sure what to expect but I really like them. I was planning on returning them if I didn’t like them. I think I’m going to have to try to sell some of my other speakers though. Got my RP-600M ii for $300 brand new a month ago. Might be time to offload the JBL Studio 530 and old Polk Monitor 5’s.
My other speakers I own and have compared are RP-600M ii, Studio 530, old B&W DM602 S2 and B&W M1 ii, old Polk Monitor 5’s and T15’s, Jamo S801/S803, old DCM CX-17 (these are garage duty with a Pioneer SX-440 that I’ll be recapping soon), and a few others that I don’t remember right off the top of my head.
The Kef meet almost all of my criteria for the sound I like. I’m just wondering if I should try some Elac speakers. I get the sense that you and I might have similarities in what it is we like.
I've been a big fan of the Heil AMT tweeter since as a 17-year old I purchased a pair of ESS AMT 1B speakers. I assume Oskar Heil had a patent on them and an exclusive agreement with ESS back in those days as you really didn't see this type of tweeter in other brands. They got good reviews as I especially remember the late & great Julian Hirsch's in the '77 August (I think) Stereo Review. FFW to today, with no patent restraining the use of the AMT design they are definitely more than validated as to their greatness. It is almost impossible to count how many makers of speakers use AMT tweeters in their lines as they offer so much detail, clarity, and wide band-response related to size. They do need to be implemented wisely as they are dipolar radiators which, as used here, have to be damped well from their rear 180º phase radiation. Emotive has been using these for now well over a decade successfully. I'm not surprised in your findings here. The beauty of the ESS AMT 1B speakers (currently still available in much the original form often by special order) is this speaker uses the largest currently available AMT driver in an open baffle dipolar design which seems to let them "breathe" a wider soundstage when positioned with care. Some audiophiles over the years have often designed their own home-brewed speakers using the large Heil AMT made by ESS in attempts to improve the integration of this driver as the AMT 1B's mated it to a 12-inch woofer that would handle the lower mid-range. Personally, I have no reservations of still in 2024 the ESS AMT 1B's do much more on a very high level than they get wrong. I think the low cross-over point blended with a, relatively, fast and light 12-inch woofer works fine. Based on your review, and my personal experience with AMT tweeters, I would have to give the Emotive speakers a big nod over these very respectable contenders. As in many things, it is often those last few dollars (yes, the Emotiva speakers cost a little more) that really deliver the best in long-term satisfaction.
Hey Randy. Thanks again for the reviews!
Another great video. I really like the comparisons. Watching the individual videos about each speaker gives the viewer a lot of information, but without being able to personally listen them all side by side, a video like this really makes a difference.
A comparison to the Q Acoustics 5020 and Sonus Faber Lumina II Amator, some of your other favorite speakers, would be a great follow up. What are you gaining (or maybe losing) by spending double and triple? That would show what a great value the JBL, Emotiva, and Elacs are, but also Q Acoustics and Sonus Faber may be something worth saving for or an aspiring for a future upgrade. You may realize these speakers are all you really need and want to invest in other gear instead.
Luv your Channel-been listening for probably 4-6 years. Sandman was awesome, went to that concert. Also had the Metalica band on one of my flights and had a chance to talk to the older dude who at the time seemed like he had an aphro hairdo. I was a flight attendant in Phoenix where some of the band lived at that time back in the early 90's.
Thank you Randy - PS- Emotiva Xb2 have been out of stock for 3 months -
Yeah, I recently went on a search for new bookshelf speakers for my office set up. Watched all these cheapaudioman videos singing the praises of the Emotiva Xb2 which got me really interested in purchasing them... only to find they seem to never be in stock.
@@digitaljackson3891 they’re in stock now, and 20% off too.
AMT tweeters use a pleated diaphragm made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film to move air laterally. Folded ribbon tweeters use a thin film diaphragm folded into an accordion shape and placed in a symmetrical magnetic field. - AMT's reportedly have a wider frequency range (can be used as mid-range as well) and are less fragile than folded ribbons.
Thank for this, i was between the elac 3s and the ultra evolutions, i didnt wanna pay that much for 15 speakers but buy once cry once. Appreciate the review.
@cheapaudioman Thursday Speaker Shootout! Where's the monkey and the shaky table? Very very very good vid. One thing I figured out listening to your channel. I would have sworn that I like more treble ... come to figure out I lean toward a warmer sound. I may be considering the Elac ... yummy! I know you don't always keep more speakers to compare, but this is super reminiscent of your early days of fun. Thanks Mr. Randy. 🙃
Perhaps the differences in these three speakers points to the rule that the best $1000 speaker is two $500 speakers or the best $1500 speaker is three $500 speakers. Of course, this is not true if your budget is only $500, but there are some great speakers out there in the $200-$300 range.
Love to see how these stack up side-by-side with my Paradigm Monitor bookshelf speakers. For the price, I love those speakers.
I think that the 5 best Heavy Metal albums are:
1) Black Sabbath-
Mob Rules
2)Dio-Holy Diver
3)Metal Church(S/T)
4) Slayer-South Of Heaven
5) Metallica-Kill’em All
I tend to favor more dynamic analog recordings with less compression and more dynamic slam to rip your face off.
Like Mob Rules.
Sign Of The Southern Cross will expose lesser rigs right away, especially at high volumes. The drums will blow your woofers across the room with the dynamics that Martin Birch recorded Vinnie’s kit with.
The original Warner or Vertigo CD is fine. The Deluxe Edition from Sanctuary sounds great too.
I like a laid back midrange since I play at such high volumes, with various NAD 80 to 150 watt power amps that are underrated, and will push 2 ohms with a kilowatt per channel. And they sound smooth for their class.
I’m thinking the Elac would be the best overall for heavy rock and metal? Would the Polk R200 better them? Curious. It’s always a crap shoot with amp/speaker matching.
Sometimes it winds up different than what you would expect when you match.
Just as a side note , does that Wiim have a very high resolution digital volume control? I would think at under full scale max, that it would certainly affect the resolution in the digital domain. I tend to always use analog preamps with a good dac as the source. Like the Parasound D/AC 2000 Ultra. That unit will show you that 44.1/16 bit is glorious enough for anything.
Thanks for the great comparison Randy!
Which one is least fatiguing at Jet Turbine volumes?
Best Metal songs:
Iron Maiden - To Tame a Land
Metallica - Master of Puppets
Tool - Vicarious
Anthrax - I Am the Law
Slayer - Reign in Blood
Fight me about it! 😂
I'll fight you, but those tracks have to be playing in the background. Haha
@@nathanclaspell6003 LOL
So happy to see this. Great budget speakers were starting to become a rare thing with inflation
Love the speaker shootout! Great video, Randy. I think I'd personally lean towards the Emotive speakers, as I do like clarity and detail. But they have been out of stock almost since the moment they came out.
Randy if you’re really wanting to give your audience the best value in speakers I would really recommend throwing the $265 CerwinVega! LA165 up against these also great speakers!
I thought cerwinvega were mostly party speakers
They are part of a new line of Cerwin-Vega speakers.
@@vishaalgargi this is partly true. They made allot of models that were very good at playing loud and keeping there clarity. But many measured ok and sound really good. The new LA is more of an audiophile sound than a party sound, and it’s dirt cheap!
@@vishaalgargilong story short, CV is a whole company again. Whole because they were separated and the home speaker segment was sold off. CV owns it again. They’ve re-entered the market with something that might be worthy of consideration. Doesn’t get any recognition anywhere and they don’t offer it for sale many places. Basically direct or Amazon. You can find it on other sites but it’s sold 3rd party.
LA165 can be seen on Generation Behind HiFi’s channel. He does interesting look inside videos.
Agree. Miss the speaker shootouts.
Do you think that the ELAC DB53 (5.25" driver) would be much of a downgrade from the DB63? Would it be closer to the JBL Stage 250 or still better on tracks such as the ones in the video? Great video, thanks!!
Next, a speaker shoot-out for Infinity SM-125, Boston Acoustics CR9 and Project One MM 75!
Randy, what would you tell a person who typically listens under 70db ? It seems that factor would influence the recommendations. For example, what if the JBL hangs just fine under 70db at listening position and offers good clarity, tonal balance, and detail at lower volumes ??
I would add two older speakers , kef q150 and q acoustic concept 20 are excellent!
I do not agree with your comment "all the cymbals, crack of the guitars, and finger slides, and things you just don't hear on the Elac's". I'm assuming you are exaggerating or mean that it's not as prominent as Emotiva. Otherwise I would take a measurement because there is something wrong. I've listened to both and there's no issue hearing everything from Metallica on the Elac's. The XB2 has a definite rising treble which is what you are probably hearing, but I find a bit tiring unless knocked down.
I compared Emotiva XB2 (lucky to get a pair), Elac Debut 3.0, and SVS Ultra Evolution nanos, along with center channels. I ended up keeping the Elac's. The Elac's larger sound stage and balance was the deciding factor for me. Elac 1, Emotiva a close 2nd, SVS 3. I was surprised as I thought for sure SVS would come out ahead, but not in my room sitting 11ft away.
I, personally, 😂 regardless of your STELLAR reviews Randy The Man .. going to be no doubt be surprised 🤯 when I have a chance to interview them. But I ALWAYS 💕 and appreciate your efforts regardless of the price. I have no expectations beyond surprise...and if my ears love it. I don't require nor seek the least for or the most for because I'm just looking to "fill my soul" with the happiness of music and couldn't give 2 Do Do's what others think.
I already own Enotiva B1+ with BasX A2 amp, SMSL DAC. That’s my office set up, love it. I will now be purchasing the ELAC for my bedroom set up. Because it’s the polar opposite. I have the clarity and now want the dynamic exciting sound!
@@nexarium no, my office is a standard bedroom size. It’s on the smaller size. Sounds great.
I have the Debut 3s coming in the mail tomorrow on your recommendation. I chose them over the Klipsch 600m. I hope I made the right call!
Well?
Well?
@@ReactarooSkidoo well??
@ I am super happy with them! The bass is so much tighter and punchy. Sounds great with all my vinyl and with Tidal streaming service. Also sounds soooo good with movies. I am very very happy and they were a nice upgrade from the RP-50m from Klipsch
Love me some Thursday 🤔 Speaker Shoot Outs. I think the unicorn 🦄 had too much partying and couldn't hang with you, Randy. Great Job in comparing these speakers.
Best Metal
Metallica - Battery
Suffocation - Thrones Of Blood
Anthrax - Caught In A Mosh
Iron Maiden - The Number Of The Beast
Mr. BUNGLE - Anarchy Up Your @~us
Some really good options at these price points. Thanks Randy.
Crutchfield only had one review on the Elac Debut 3 (so far) yesterday. It wasn’t very glowing. Claimed they only sounded great at mid volumes.
Hooked up my new Elacs this afternoon and wow! They're connected to an Emotiva amp and WiiM Ultra.
If you want two tracks that illustrate how awesome they are, listen to:
1. Breakway - by Big Pig
2. Low Rider - War
It's just shocking the bass and treble these little speakers produce!
Came for the Goonies t-shirt. Stayed for the review. I may have put those in reverse order. Or not.
The MTV recording was probably recorded with sibilance to help cover up Alanis' lisp. Great video Randy ! Thx !
I play on some old 90s boston accoustics towers and the range is 40-20000hz. They surprisingly slam pretty hard on the bass considering a 7.5" woofer. I am a huge fan of cerwin vegas. My dream is the XLS dual 15" speaker.
need another speaker shootout, debut 3.0, vs unifi 2.0 vs debut 2.0 vs unifi reference
I’d throw the UB5’s in too as I like them tonally better than the UB5.2’s. The 5.2’s have better sound stage, though!
And Debut Reference!
As an enjoyer of many different forms of audio (albeit still relatively new to the hobby), I've definitely found I prefer a brighter/V-shaped leaning sound towards IEM's, a more balanced sound towards headphones, and a warmer, calmer sound in speakers. If I want hyper-detail, I want the sound right next to my ears, but If I just want big sound, that's where speakers shine for me. Seems like the Debut 3.0's fit the bill the most out of these, in this instance.
Guys. If you have one of those entry level audiophile speakers, you don't need to upgrade to a newer version. What you need to do is to go to an upper class speaker. The difference between those entry levels and the ones in the 800-1000 price range is insane.
Oooh...those monoblocks. I had them in my cart recently. Didn't pull the trigger, because I couldn't find enough (subjective) reviews/comments about them. Can't wait for your take Randy! You're my guy! BTW they'd be driving Linton 85th speakers...
Great video what are the best options for JNOG2 - I did include Ak4499 curious your thoughts on additional options
I have jnog2 with 4493 chip. I upgraded to Burson v7 vivid on my RCA and WOW... what a difference.
If you have that 4499 chip, you will be thrilled with upgraded op amps.
I am pretty sure I heard Dan Laughman say on their podcast that they were going to release different finishes in their new speaker line. It would be nice if they would do that I would like to see a white finish.
Best Heavy Metal Records: 1. Slayer - South of Heaven 2. Metallica - Master of Puppets 3. Judas Priest - Unleashed in The East 4. Black Sabbath - Paranoid 5. Iron Maiden - Killers
Listen to the Bartok string quartets. You’ll love them.
I won't disagree with you on the Master of Puppets thing, but personally, I go back and forth on it with Ride the Lightning and AJ4A. All 3 are beyond stellar albums
To bad we can't hear the speakers, maybe pick something you can play without having to pay for it so we can hear it.
Master is great stuff, Ride the Lightening as well as the first Metallica kill em all are all stellar to me. Black Sabbath heaven and hell,mob rules along with Dio's first couple albums,iron maiden piece of mind, Megadeth first two albums, anthrax first few, motorhead pick one, Judas priest screaming for vengeance, scorpions black out and love at first sting, Rush 2112 moving pictures, Pantera cemetery gates, AC DC back in black, the list goes on and on and on !👍 Thanks, just found your channel and subbed, now I need to find a sound system somewhere.
Greetings from Serbia! I would like to heard Your opinion about Q Acoustics 3030i vs Elac DB63. And nice job as always!
Me too! I have Triangle Bro 3 simply because they were $200 less expensive than Q Acoustics 30's.
I'm now evaluating these Elac's but all the actual paid customer reviews have been problematic for the speakers.
EVERYONE who has actually spent precious dollars on Elac DB63 need to speak up.
Are they the real deal...OR not?
The 3030i’s are my favorite speaker. They’re just good on all amps and all music.
Would be great to hear about Thonet and Vander bookshelf speakers from your perspective, even a review. I live in part of the world where 95% of the brands/models you review are not available here sadly. Kurbis or Vertrag models for example.
Thanks
Can I actually use a bookshelf speaker in a bookshelf when it has a rear port? I want to replace my front left/right speakers in my ceiling with bookshelf speakers. They will be located in a bookshelf with the ports fairly close to the rear of the bookshelf. In this room we are mainly watching TV/Movies, very seldom music. The height of the Elac would just fit. Most people I see mounting these on a stand in open air. I don't want and "booming" or echoing.
I wouldn’t put a rear ported speaker on a bookshelf. You are correct that the bass will bloom in not a good way.
I just recommended the Elac’s to my brother and I am looking forward to hearing them.
The problem with the XB2s are they are sold out. I've been on a waiting list for almost 4 months. I don't know if I'll ever get them.
JBL bookshelf speakers always seem require a sub for main speaker duty. I do prefer their sound, but would likely get the Elacs for stand alone. Great review. I think 4-500 (formerly 150-350) is the sweet spot for near-great sounding speakers. Great review.
Korn "Here to Stay" on Elacs. Sounds pretty good... Great review, thanks for the video!
Really good review! Thx!
Thank you for the interesting content, will be the Elac a good choice for a Wiim Amp?
The ELAC / EMOTIVA best of both "BABY" is the ELAC Carina. I'd say the ELAC VELA but they are wicked expensive.
Wharfedale EVO’s versus ELAC Carinas, vs Martin Logan Foundation series would be a huge AMT battle royal at a reasonable price point. Maybe squeeze a Golden Ear model in too!
1) BLACKENED - Metallica (there is a reason they named their label - Blackened Recording Inc.)
2) SEASONS IN THE ABYSS - Slayer
3) HOLY WARS … THE PUNISHMENT DUE - Megadeth
4) WE DIE YOUNG - Alice In Chains
5) OVERDOSE - AC/DC
Another great review thank you Sir you are the best
Might be time to hand a pair of the Emotiva XB2s to Neil for a tune-up!
Yes!!!
@@mattkalis1567 I wish I had the $$ to send my Emotiva T-Zero towers to Neil for an upgrade.
I need a subwoofer for any of these.
Would definitely go JBL. Especially with bass management.
More my sound. Would choose on looks and name alone.
Hilarious!!❤😂
Keep going man!
Okay. Now I'm gonna focus on the video. Yours may be the ONLY introductions I listen to. And I never have to put your videos on faster playback speed! Awesome!
Miss these shootout videos!
Randy, I am surprised that JBL did do a black spray or black wrap to match the baffle. To me all black & grey speakers is my visual of classic look on speakers.
Great video as always. I recently bought the little Reisong A10 and I’m trying to the pair the best possible bookshelf speaker that I can for $500 ish. Your video on the amp convinced me to pull the trigger but I’m worried about picking a speaker that is harder to “drive”. Any help on what you would choose at that “cheaper” budget for speakers would be so great!
Hans and his torture testing bass drops, I tell ya...
Thank you for this video. Pleaaaase I need your help on deciding between the Elac and Wharfedale Denton 85. Which one would you recommend ?
I guess if you did buy the two pairs of speakers, you could use a quality receiver and plus one pain in the stereo main and the other pain in the Zone two stereo sockets so you could easily switch between the speakers without doing anything other than pressing a button on the receivers control.
Out of those 3 I’d choose the JBL I had the original stage series and it was fantastic especially for what I paid
Better than the Studio series 530 at $180pr? Yes, per pair.
Buy 4 Elacs and mount them tweeter to tweeter to make a Frankenstien D'Appolito.
As another old guy with a miltary past! God Bless and Good Luck!
Which of them for a particularly large, difficult room?
I'm having a terrible time deciding on the Elac Debut 3.0 and Emotiva XB2. I have custom home theater towers & center with RAAL ribbon tweeter and am a huge fan of the mid & high crispness and clarity without being overly bright, which appears to be a characteristic of the XB2. However, these will go in my cabin's great room, which is just awful, terrible, no good for perfect sound. 40'x24', with 22' ceiling, one side glass, a big stone fireplace in the middle. I can't get speaker separation, I can't plan for depth, and I certainly can't get enough subs. That said, with the right speakers (currently tiny but beautiful sounding Emp E41-B with SVS SB-1000 sub) I can get a very pleasing sound both nearfield and across the room. I'm a music photographer and have no specific genre phobias, although I tend to listen to jam bands, newgrass, jamgrass, with some indie and classic rock slipped in from time to time. Anyway, after extensive viewing (including this video about 6 times now) and reading I've decided the soundstage and warmth from the Elac may be a better fit in my space, and wonder if you have an opinion to share. Thanks.
Randy, one of the best test songs for speakers is Dream Theater’s 6:00 from Awake….especially for bass frequencies.
Alliteration at 8:18 is peak cam.
Hans zimmer on the interstellar soundtrack kills every speaker I own. Hell, it crushes a few of my low-end subs.
i found my deal 3 years ago on some adam audio t5v's. Got them both for 170 euros used(in new state off some guy with dj aspirations lol) paired it with an active subwoofer and in my room sounds really expensive
that tap so much asmr
OK, I have a pair Klipsch 6000F Il , klipsch RP 500 C ll center and the speedwoofer 10S MKll that you convinced me to get. Hell I just bought all the stuff because of you, it was nice to get the subwoofer for $404 anyway my question is what do you think would be good . The reason I’m asking I don’t know too much. I’m stuck back in the 80s and this is my first new stereo system I bought since then but surround sound rear is usually voices or a bottle breaking or traffic or something I know so music so I’m not quite sure that I really have to spend a lot of money on rear speakers or not or just go ahead and get some more klipschs am I totally wrong just be kind and tell me what to get all this other stuff working fantastic of course I have it hooked up Yamaha RX-V6A
Randy, by chance is there a way you can do a review of M-Audio speakers and see if they are appropriate to be used as stereo speakers? Model #’s AV32; BX8 D3; BX5 D3; BX4; BX3;
Listen all these speakers are fine but not my choice. Ive been using Vanatoos and you dont need a sub. Besides being programmable and you can download software upgrades. Alittle over 500 bucks and not chinesium crap. American made right down to the cabinets. ive had all those speakers, either they are too high,lacks bass or visa versa. If your listining to his Alanis M they are great. But when you really need to drive them. CRAP. Vanatoos and speakers like them are correctly tuned. When a speaker is not thats why you have the - too high or muddy effect. Remember your gear no matter how expensive it will sound like crap if not paired correctly.
Thank you, Randy.
Fun video. Thx.
Sounds like the biggest Debut 3 center would work with my Lintons.
Hey first of all I want to say I like your audiophile knowledge and I wanted to ask a question that I’m more than sure you will have the answer right of the back…….. I’m interested getting into DAC streaming and I like the eversolo A8 and my question is what A/B or D amp should I run? Also I like the klipsch speakers (mainly because the way they look I haven’t heard them before) which left, right and powers sub should I run… I WANT IT DISRESPECTFULLY LOUD LOL…. Can you help me it would be highly appreciated
Strae from Los Angeles
Where is our full on review of the Outlaw.? Another great American audio company.
I love the JBL’s with the RSL 10E
!. Metallica - Master of Puppets . 2.Slayer - Seasons In The Abyss 3.Kampfar- Urkraft 4. Dimmu Borgir - Gateways 5. Megadeth - Holy Wars
Metalica...blaaa... Sidenote. You should try streetheart essentials on some your tests. 80's rock. but sounds cool. I like "Action" the best.
MoP gets my vote, for sure. You should check out some classic metal sound’s created in the 21st century. These all-female bands from Japan will make you feel young again: BAND-MAID, LOVEBITES, NEMOPHILA, and HAGANE.
What is your conclusion ? Which one is the best out of the three you review. Is it JBL, ELAC or EMO ?