Make sure you check out Harry’s next time you’re at your local Walmart and let me know what you pick up! Amp amzn.to/3VJTmzR Source amzn.to/3RPleBw Speaker. amzn.to/4cG6ugm (all links affiliated) Audiophile System Under $500 Vid ua-cam.com/video/XiJRBe1CFkI/v-deo.html Audiophile System Under $400 ua-cam.com/video/3JSqcn8fjrk/v-deo.html check out my other channel www.youtube.com/@cheapwatchman_official Intro graphics by johnvilardi.com Support the Channel! Shop on Amazon amzn.to/3W8vsgK Crutchfield shop-links.co/cguPK8XEGmt Join the best hifi community out there! patreon.com/cheapaudioman TRY ROON www.rofjdjk3ns.com/33G977/2CTPL/ Tidal Deal bit.ly/3siuqSF Amazon Unlimited Music Trial amzn.to/3DRAVj9 Crutchfield shop-links.co/cguPK8XEGmt Best Buy Deals shop-links.co/cf9yDZeYtUH amzn.to/3GkNaop CAM Store (New Products!) bit.ly/30Lgu4K apos.audio?sca_ref=552340.TY98BPcZ6P massdrop.7eer.net/qnOye5
Good to see you back to your roots. If on a tight, very tight budget, consider thrift shops. Recently I found and bought a Yamaha A-500 amp, for $40.00, a Technics SA 104 for $20.00 and a pair of Sony SS-H3500 for $14.00, all in excellent condition. Add a source like a Wiim Mini, some speakers wires and you're in business and all for peanuts $$$.
Mostly true but such speakers belong in a landfill. No x-overs, +/- 60mm magnets on the woofers and likely 9mm chipboard cabinets. They're an abomination.
@@Рашка-у8й Could be , but I am not talking about high end products, for $34.00 I gave decent sound to a TV in a spare bedroom and, trust me, that combo sounds light years better than the built in speakers of that TV, including streaming from its Pandora, Spotify and Amazon Music apps.
Randy. I have been following you for a few months now. I'm hooked!!! I bought the Fosi,wiim mini and the SU1. I have a set of old bose acoustimass. I didn't hook up the su 1 yet but the fosi and mini sound nice. I have a list of speakers from your videos and will see what the beat bargain is during prime days. Loving your content. Excited to build a little system in my office. Thanks again!!
Randy - This kind of videos is what this channel is best at. Having said that, I still encourage you to listen to more expensive components as well. That will give you perspective, and make you better at identifying the hidden gems.
I passed you in a stairwell at AXPONA 2014, but I didn't say anything because I didn't want to slow you down. Anyway, I appreciate the work you are doing to make audio accessible to people. Class D has turned out to be an incredible equalizer to make really functionally good audio available to beginners. There's definitely an upgrade path but you can start out in the hobby and be quite happy for so little money these days.
Good stuff Randy. You steered me towards the SSCS5s and ive been very happy with them for 2 years with a lil 10 inch sub. Just wanted to say, you've been killing it lately! Plenty of good info for well educated purchasing in the budget range, and now new content lately about more esoteric things in the space I've really been enjoying! It's important to know the products to know the industry and what your doing, but it's also nice that I can pull you up, and grab a video that still gets me hyped for hifi, and doesn't make me just want to spend money. Trying the tick tock speakers, your travels to other companies around the world....good stuff. Screw the haters. Keep this corner of youtube sacred and kind. I get no "sell out" or "shill" vibes. Just seems like your a guy who is passionate and doesn't want to be limited to purchasing discussions. One of these days, hoping I'll make another live stream!
Brilliant! I, too, bought the Wiim Mini when I realised that my new-to-me streamer actually was a Roon streamer only, and that I lacked a proper USB cable to feed it from my PC. I found the Mini's sound quality very agreeable using the optical out from the Mini and into the DAC. Then I realised that I wanted a good-sounding, low-cost system for my glass balcony, so I bought the harman/kardon Soundsticks III dirt cheap. I was in awe when using the Wiim Mini's built-in EQ and the Soundsticks's subwoofer volume knob in tandem for adjusting. The sound is amazing. Best track, with unbelievable stereo separation, was 'Vivid' by Koan Sound. The Soundsticks and the Wiim Mini together cost me about SEK 2000 or roughly $200, and must be one of the best bargains I ever made. The EQ makes all the difference when the Wiim Mini pours new life into the actually quite nice Soundsticks speakers. Randy, you missed out on one detail. When using an external DAC via Toslink from the Wiim, the EQ is inhibited. To experienced audiophiles, this is normal and expected, but newbies may get the impression that this functionality continues when using the optical out. This may mean that the amp's tone controls must be used more frequently and that getting a more refined sound becomes trickier unless the DAC has EQ or similar profiles. I thought it was worth pointing this out. Thanks for your good work, Randy!
Picked up the system (using your affiliate links, of course) after watching this video. I am blown away by the quality at this price point. Thanks so much for bringing decent quality sound back into my life at a price I can afford!
Haha, back in 71 I bought my first stereo system for $200 CAN. It was one of those all in one types - A receiver with a built in 8 Track and turntable with separate speakers. Likely $1,000 in todays money 🤣🤣🤣. Very few years later in 76 or so I bought a new Pioneer system for about $1,800 and few yrs alter I was off to the races and again and again. Zero regrets. Another haha - back in the 60's a single 45 was always $1.00, like about $10.00 today - Streaming dirt cheap these days.
Thanks Randy, Great Video... been watching you for a while. I have basically the same system I just have more parts to switch it up. I'm running a SMSL SU-1 $70 into my Schiit Magni Heretic $59 into my Fosi Audio TB10D $64.00 into my NEUMI Silk 4 - Got used like new $135.00 - This sounds amazing... and with the Magni I have a Headphone amp ... AKG K361 - I also have the Sony cssc5 and the Kanto YU 4 - both sound great. I love your channel, you have inspired me to be Happy with a simple affordable setup that I can expand on instead of sinking all my cash into higher end components. With your recommendation I'm going to get the WIIM mini. Thanks again.
I just wanted to thank you for your magnificent channel! I not only get quality info on affordable audio equipment, I get some much needed laughs. Your comedic delivery is top notch. Thanks again sir, always looking forward to new vids! Peace ✌🏻
This would be a great setup for a den, reading room or even a bedroom (maybe not for crazy people like me who want to have a ton of stuff lol). Your Harris section was absolutely brilliant hahaha, thanks for sharing this video with us 😊
Nice video Randy. If I was starting out this would totally work. Would have money leftover for things like music, food, and rent. The fact you can upgrade things over time without completely starting over is good too. Thanks for posting this.
Buy an old Home Theater receiver at Goodwill - Denon, Onkyo, Yamaha and Sony all can be cleaned up and reused (of 6 purchased, all funcitonal with great power output) < $100 including shipment and many near 100 wpc, multiple sources, onboard DAC with more recent vintages sporting Airplay / Spotify - plus the joy of cleaning up a recycled product. Probably find some good vintage speakers also
Randy . . . this video is truly in the spirit of your initial posts when you first started the channel . . .Your joy is palpable . . . you don't have to spend a small fortune to enjoy music! 😎👍🏽 Though I don't need the amp, I'm seriously considering purchasing the Micca MB42X to replace my current "B" speakers 🔊🔊 DBX Soundfield 3X2 LS Shelf Speakers (from DAC industries back inna day) which are being driven by a Fosi audio DA-2120C . They rate the Power Handling at 75 Watts . . . do you know if this Peak or RMS power? 🙄 The Fosi amp is due to replaced by the Cambridge Audio AXR100 and I'm trying to determine if the Micca MB42X would be overpowered by the AXR100 😮 and I should look for another replacement speaker. In the spirit of full disclosure, I've been a Harry's customer for years back when they were online only. 😉😁 I get a great shave with quality blades at down to earth pricing for years . . . Happy Customer! 🎆🎆👍🏽👍🏽
I use those excat Micca speakers connected to the Douk Audio H7 pro with a 42 volt power supply. I'm pushing "close" to 300 watts to them. They sound great! Just don't blow them by cranking the volume to max! 🤣👍🏻
@@chrisnunya7171 - Wise words to live by! 😂😂 Strange though . . . the Micca MB42X reminds me of the old Realistic Minumus 7's of the late 80s which I use as 'B' speakers on another amp. Are the sound signatures of the Micca MB42X & Realistic Minumus 7's similar? The Minumus 7 is rated at 40 watts RMS with a frequency response of 60-20K (?) Hz. The Micca MB42X is rated at 75 watts (Peak?) with a frequency response of 60Hz-20kHz. Hmmmm . . . If it looks like a duck? 🙄🦆
Check the THD/SNR rates for these small amps. They look great at 1-10W and then fall off a cliff beyond. You can easily drive these little amps into distortion with not a lot of demand. So yeah, thats fine for headphones and some small speakers but that's the upper limit. If you spend a few more hundred you can get dozens of amps that will drive almost *any* speaker/monitors out there. Randy frequently references his Yamaha A-S301 because its a fantastic amp and will do much better than these little pocket amps, and you can pick up used 301's for excellent prices. The only drawback can be their size if thats relevant to your application.
@@jordanrussell345 can you name some amps brand new which can beat these class d amps. Used may not be an option most of the time so amps that are currently in production would be more helpful
Yo Randy, not to nitpick but you said Micca MB42x Gen2 or g2 but the link is to the MB42x. Micca gives an Amazon link that says Currently unavailable for the Micca Mb42x G2 and doesn't know when or if they will be back in stock. I've been looking for the g2. I have the 42x and love them in their location, no sub needed. I should have jumped on the g2 when they came out! Killer channel by the way!
WAIT!! can stream amazon music.... and bluethooth, but you don't recommend blutooth???? Aren't I using bluetooth when I listen to amazon music with iphone?? I am cunfused by this. Can someone explain?
I like these reviews/guides to smaller and affordable systems. I live in a one-bedroom apartment that is fairly spacious, but not a place where I could fully use a larger system even though the construction is above average (one of these 'luxury' apartments). The WiiM is intriguing because I could use it with other gear. I have two UE Hyperboom speakers(with analogand SDPIF inputs), and they do sound better with direct input from my Samsung S23 Ultra...even if powered speakers get some shade. Thank you for this guide and Ill be purchasing.
While those speakers may be $89.99 in the US, they are $282 internationally. Do you have any suggestions for speakers from the rest of the world? Cause the price is really inflated outside the USA.
Nice setup. If one is patient, the Sony bookshelf speaker's can still be had for the same price as these micas and are far superior plus down the road you can apply Neil Blanchard's crossover upgrade and mods for something truly special.
If you already have an amp it's even less. I had the Wiim mini as my second streamer. When I bought the Wiim Pro + I moved the Wiim Mini to my TV surround setup which has the Micca as it's left right speakers. So I didn't need a new. amp. I set my Denon Surround to stereo mode and fed the Wiim mini into the Miccas.
@@RetroPillowcase I know it sounds funny, but lamp cord is often 14awg (some even 12awg) pure copper strand. It's better than many name brand 'speaker wires' out there lol
I bought the Micca MB42X G2, mainly based on your reviews, and on Zeos'. I've been very happy with them so far. I haven't heard imaging this good on any speakers I've owned, since some older Tannoy speakers which had coaxial drivers. The Miccas still output an impressive amount of bass for their size. Much better if they are placed only a few inches from the wall, and the chair also close to the rear wall, to add some room gain. Obviously they don't dig super deep with the bass, but still really enjoyable to listen to songs from all kinds of genres. (I was listening to a bit of Ne Obliviscaris - Intra Venus on the Miccas earlier, and they coped fairly well with that challenge. lol) I can't complain at all for the price, but I had to pay a bit more to get them shipped from Amazon US to the UK. I'm using the Miccas with a mini TPA3250-based amp, which has DSP. I agree about the Miccas having a bit too much in the lower-midrange. I'll try using the DSP to tame that, then I think they will be really great. I was previously using some PSB Alpha P5 speakers, but they don't even come close to the sound of the Miccas. In fact, the PSBs seemed to have the opposite problem - they tend to have quite a big dip in midrange. It was very noticeable when switching back to (almost any) other speakers.
I'll probably sell the PSB, and tempted to grab the NEUMI BS5 soon. (ie. keeping the NEUMI BS5, Micca MB42X G2, and B&W dm303 for music / fun.) All speakers for my home theatre are RSL CG23M (fronts), an CG3M (surrounds + heights). And the RSL REO Speedwagon, I mean RSL Speedwoofer 10S MKII sub. lol The RSLs are very neutral, which is kind of what you want for home theatre. I'm definitely a fan now, of having different speakers purely for 2-channel music listening. (you would think "good" home theatre speakers would be good at playing music as well, especially after room correction, but I have to admit I'm now a fan of the coloration of various speakers for music.)
my radio system in garage for playing a short wave receiver thru and a refurbished fm tuner from 1980. it has a 100$ on sale dayton hybrid tube amp, a $100 used pair great shape audio engine p4 speakers and a 100$ 6" subwoofer - originally bought for computer desktop. tuner was 50$. blue jean cables 35
Nice one! I just came across your channel while looking for a good budget stereo set up I'm particularly picky about warm speakers & amps as i listen to music for long hours at a go, what are some of the best budget warm sounding bookshelves, amplifier/AVR & floor standing speakers out there which i actually want to use as my front speakers for a good stereo set up Very informative vid Thanks!
Like everything you recommend - except streamers. Renting music is just not for me - not having ownership rights to media is just taking society in wrong direction. But I don’t expect any others to agree. I still appreciate your channel.
@@LilypadOW The Bluetooth Standard today is still lossy on audio. For example, Apple standard AAC only can send 256 Kb for second, you can find this data as 256 kbps. Today, a CD Quality song need at least 1400 kbps or maybe more. Even if you use the best of the best on Bluetooth on Sony's Android Phones, you can't go forward that 900 kbps. Is way simpler to assume that Bluetooth is always lossy for this reason, and that's why you never wanna use it. Finally, for the video itself... If you buy the Wiim product, you can use your own wifi to bring music on lossless quality over the web. Greetings.
i want to personally thank you. i Bought the fosi audo bt20a and the aiyima a07 on your recommendations.its revived a pc system with some 1980s missions 761s and with spotify allowed some nice pleasure for music since i stopped using hifi separates decades ago.I also have realised the snobbery and hate towards these low cost chinese products from self proclaimed snobby audiophiles that wish to spend 1000s on posh amplifiers.
Nice video. Absolutely agree the WiiM Mini is great. WiiM also interfaces very well with Alexa. Much better than BluSound. Just curious - you review Emotiva stuff, which is direct to consumer, but I don’t recall you doing many other DTC speakers. Do they just not provide demo equipment? Examples: Zu, LSA, NHT, Ascend, Tyler.
I took your advice and and bought this setup with an audio technica base model turntable for my College son who wants to get into hifi. Also bought him Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the moon album. He likes my kind of music 🤔 strange. I tested it all and it does sound good. Thx.
If you want an even cheaper source and don't need a digital output, get an amazon echo 3rd generation. You can get those used for about 30 $. Unfortunately there is no skill for Tidal but you get Spotify, Amazon music (of course) or Deezer. Plus voice control!
You can use 13amp mains cable without issues and upgrade later. As for hifi, your talking new items. you could save a lot more if you bought second hand, if its just about having a system. That said, some great bargains to be had in the lower end market, active monitors and earphone amp/dac/pre's at the lowest cost areas are actually measuring stupidly well and accurate too boot, they just do not look fancy. I already have too much hifi yet really trying to sneak some savings past the wife for Topping and Kali for the PC.
Hey Randy how about for the extreme bass lover on a budget ,adding 2x FOSI AUDIO MO1 sub amp to a dual voice coil subwoofer??? You know we love our bass here in Texas .
@@ofcourseimfullofit I tried the Fosi TB10D. I prefer my SMSL SA100. For me the Fosi was just "meh". Nothing special at all. "It outputs sound". Cheap but okay. It NEEDS to be paired with the Miccas (which I haven't tried yet) to add some "oomph" to the system, I guess.
Randy, It's time to expand your channel from Cheap...... to Cheap and Frugal Audio..... now to include ALL price point stuff !! Make Harry's humorous !!!! Me Handels Messiah Guy Gordon (Cellohead)
How would baby advents sound with this system? Been watching a long time just subscribed. This would be perfect In living room. Wife hates big stereo stuff.
. You can get real close to the answer on your own Kim. First ask yourself, what does Blutooth for streaming do for us? Why do we do it? Then ask yourself, what IS being recommended? Then ask yourself, what's the difference between the two? Occam's razor could get you the rest of the way there, where it will inevitably raise further signal (hint) questions. If you try this exercise in critical thinking & take a guess, I'd be happy to grade your homework. Acid Jazz, Funk & Brass 🔈🔉🔊
Bravo Randy! Don't get me wrong, I love when you talk about more aspirational product and show us Italian HiFi factory porn. After all, a guy needs to dream. But, this is your secret sauce. I'm currently rocking the Wiim Pro + into a Fosi V3 with the big boy power supply, coming out of the Sony SSCS5. All based on your recommendations. Sounds great and is perfect for my current situation. Heck I even waited until each one went on sale, based again on your videos. Thank You!
I define audiophiles as people who care about audio equipment because that's how everyone else defines it. Obviously it's not a truly literal translation. But the average English speaker, pretty much anywhere in the world thinks of audiophiles as people (males) who are interested in audio EQUIPMENT. it's about the gear. Just admit it guys. Another way to define it, (that no non-gearhead will ever adopt) is any person who cares about sound quality after purchasing a competent sound system. There are many people who are into gear and who pay attention to sound quality when they are shopping for a new sound system. A certain segment of the shoppers abruptly stop paying attention to any of that once their system is in place. Those people are not audiophiles. Those are educated shoppers. Another (poorly supported) definition would be anyone who is interested in sound in general. That describes me, but it's really not what I think makes me an audiophile. I'm as interested in what's available for sale as much as I am in any other aspect of home audio. I think this is s great video. It's a great idea and I think the recommendations are solid.
FYI, The Miccas are inexplicably almost 2 1/2 times the price here in Canada at $216. The Sony SSCS5s are similarly high priced at $325. The other components are about 30-50% higher.
The last thing I would ever want in an audiophile system is a streamer. Audiophile and streamer are mutually exclusive, IMO. I want the best fidelity I can get and my source material in my physical possession. BTW, I do have a couple of Fosi TB-10D amps supplying audio on PCs used for beta testing. They do a great job. Sony SSCS5 speakers on one and Polk R10 on the other.
Sponsored by Fosi and Wiim..... Seriously though, I think you can do better if you can find a deal on something like the Elac 4.1's, they deliver serious mid-bass and up audiophile performance. I got a pair on sale on Amazon for $88 and they are fab.
If you spent 3k on this exact setup, then yeah; if you spent 3k on higher-end components, then you’re fine since it all boils down to what you really like, want and can afford 😊
@RenePolster vor 3 Minuten For a first this will be a great System. Personally i would go with the Arylic B50 because oft the Subwoofer out and the WiimAmp Pro.Maybe a bit better Speakers....My Suggestion Klipsch 50 rm......Yess i Know its Double the Price but i think also Double the Fun........ Antworten
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01:50 - A white coloured 'Dr Zoidburg' advertising Harry's?? 🤔😏🤣🤣🤣
😎🇬🇧
01:50 - A white coloured 'Dr Zoidburg' advertising Harry's?? 🤔😏🤣🤣🤣
😎🇬🇧
Google streamio, might help with your streaming issue you mentioned 🏴☠️ 4:07
Good to see you back to your roots. If on a tight, very tight budget, consider thrift shops. Recently I found and bought a Yamaha A-500 amp, for $40.00, a Technics SA 104 for $20.00 and a pair of Sony SS-H3500 for $14.00, all in excellent condition. Add a source like a Wiim Mini, some speakers wires and you're in business and all for peanuts $$$.
Mostly true but such speakers belong in a landfill. No x-overs, +/- 60mm magnets on the woofers and likely 9mm chipboard cabinets. They're an abomination.
@@Рашка-у8й Could be , but I am not talking about high end products, for $34.00 I gave decent sound to a TV in a spare bedroom and, trust me, that combo sounds light years better than the built in speakers of that TV, including streaming from its Pandora, Spotify and Amazon Music apps.
Randy, I just wanna say thank you for the content you put out and your hard work. I Really do Appreciate you!
I appreciate you, my friend!
Randy. I have been following you for a few months now. I'm hooked!!! I bought the Fosi,wiim mini and the SU1. I have a set of old bose acoustimass. I didn't hook up the su 1 yet but the fosi and mini sound nice. I have a list of speakers from your videos and will see what the beat bargain is during prime days. Loving your content. Excited to build a little system in my office. Thanks again!!
Randy - This kind of videos is what this channel is best at. Having said that, I still encourage you to listen to more expensive components as well. That will give you perspective, and make you better at identifying the hidden gems.
Is this the first video you've seen of Randy's? 😅
@@ADREISTER I'm a long time Patron.
I passed you in a stairwell at AXPONA 2014, but I didn't say anything because I didn't want to slow you down. Anyway, I appreciate the work you are doing to make audio accessible to people. Class D has turned out to be an incredible equalizer to make really functionally good audio available to beginners. There's definitely an upgrade path but you can start out in the hobby and be quite happy for so little money these days.
It's a really good start ... What about running a contest so we could give away this system to some kids?
Good stuff Randy. You steered me towards the SSCS5s and ive been very happy with them for 2 years with a lil 10 inch sub.
Just wanted to say, you've been killing it lately! Plenty of good info for well educated purchasing in the budget range, and now new content lately about more esoteric things in the space I've really been enjoying!
It's important to know the products to know the industry and what your doing, but it's also nice that I can pull you up, and grab a video that still gets me hyped for hifi, and doesn't make me just want to spend money. Trying the tick tock speakers, your travels to other companies around the world....good stuff.
Screw the haters. Keep this corner of youtube sacred and kind. I get no "sell out" or "shill" vibes. Just seems like your a guy who is passionate and doesn't want to be limited to purchasing discussions.
One of these days, hoping I'll make another live stream!
Brilliant! I, too, bought the Wiim Mini when I realised that my new-to-me streamer actually was a Roon streamer only, and that I lacked a proper USB cable to feed it from my PC.
I found the Mini's sound quality very agreeable using the optical out from the Mini and into the DAC.
Then I realised that I wanted a good-sounding, low-cost system for my glass balcony, so I bought the harman/kardon Soundsticks III dirt cheap. I was in awe when using the Wiim Mini's built-in EQ and the Soundsticks's subwoofer volume knob in tandem for adjusting. The sound is amazing. Best track, with unbelievable stereo separation, was 'Vivid' by Koan Sound. The Soundsticks and the Wiim Mini together cost me about SEK 2000 or roughly $200, and must be one of the best bargains I ever made. The EQ makes all the difference when the Wiim Mini pours new life into the actually quite nice Soundsticks speakers.
Randy, you missed out on one detail. When using an external DAC via Toslink from the Wiim, the EQ is inhibited. To experienced audiophiles, this is normal and expected, but newbies may get the impression that this functionality continues when using the optical out. This may mean that the amp's tone controls must be used more frequently and that getting a more refined sound becomes trickier unless the DAC has EQ or similar profiles. I thought it was worth pointing this out.
Thanks for your good work, Randy!
F my tire, I'll just stay home and listen to music.
Exactly
Picked up the system (using your affiliate links, of course) after watching this video. I am blown away by the quality at this price point. Thanks so much for bringing decent quality sound back into my life at a price I can afford!
Haha, back in 71 I bought my first stereo system for $200 CAN. It was one of those all in one types - A receiver with a built in 8 Track and turntable with separate speakers. Likely $1,000 in todays money 🤣🤣🤣. Very few years later in 76 or so I bought a new Pioneer system for about $1,800 and few yrs alter I was off to the races and again and again. Zero regrets. Another haha - back in the 60's a single 45 was always $1.00, like about $10.00 today - Streaming dirt cheap these days.
Thanks Randy, Great Video... been watching you for a while. I have basically the same system I just have more parts to switch it up. I'm running a SMSL SU-1 $70 into my Schiit Magni Heretic $59 into my Fosi Audio TB10D $64.00 into my NEUMI Silk 4 - Got used like new $135.00 - This sounds amazing... and with the Magni I have a Headphone amp ... AKG K361 - I also have the Sony cssc5 and the Kanto YU 4 - both sound great. I love your channel, you have inspired me to be Happy with a simple affordable setup that I can expand on instead of sinking all my cash into higher end components. With your recommendation I'm going to get the WIIM mini. Thanks again.
I'm currently running a WiiM mini into an SU1 and really noticed the difference when I added the SU1, I think they make a great budget combination.
I just wanted to thank you for your magnificent channel! I not only get quality info on affordable audio equipment, I get some much needed laughs. Your comedic delivery is top notch. Thanks again sir, always looking forward to new vids! Peace ✌🏻
Good video. Definitely like the openness and lighting of your folks home. More windows the better, for me anyway.
Thank you Randy
This would be a great setup for a den, reading room or even a bedroom (maybe not for crazy people like me who want to have a ton of stuff lol). Your Harris section was absolutely brilliant hahaha, thanks for sharing this video with us 😊
Love watching these types of videos.
Nice video Randy. If I was starting out this would totally work. Would have money leftover for things like music, food, and rent. The fact you can upgrade things over time without completely starting over is good too. Thanks for posting this.
This is a great video with great advice for the newbies thanks dude.
Buy an old Home Theater receiver at Goodwill - Denon, Onkyo, Yamaha and Sony all can be cleaned up and reused (of 6 purchased, all funcitonal with great power output) < $100 including shipment and many near 100 wpc, multiple sources, onboard DAC with more recent vintages sporting Airplay / Spotify - plus the joy of cleaning up a recycled product.
Probably find some good vintage speakers also
I'd have to learn a lot before that's a good idea
Goodwill is an awesome source.
Great information as always
The Micca speakers you have linked are the standard MB42X, not the Gen 2. Those are out of stock at Amazon.
01:50 - A white coloured 'Dr Zoidburg' advertising Harry's?? 🤔😏🤣🤣🤣
😎🇬🇧
Subbed, Thanks!
Randy . . . this video is truly in the spirit of your initial posts when you first started the channel . . .Your joy is palpable . . . you don't have to spend a small fortune to enjoy music! 😎👍🏽 Though I don't need the amp, I'm seriously considering purchasing the Micca MB42X to replace my current "B" speakers 🔊🔊 DBX Soundfield 3X2 LS Shelf Speakers (from DAC industries back inna day) which are being driven by a Fosi audio DA-2120C . They rate the Power Handling at 75 Watts . . . do you know if this Peak or RMS power? 🙄 The Fosi amp is due to replaced by the Cambridge Audio AXR100 and I'm trying to determine if the Micca MB42X would be overpowered by the AXR100 😮 and I should look for another replacement speaker. In the spirit of full disclosure, I've been a Harry's customer for years back when they were online only. 😉😁 I get a great shave with quality blades at down to earth pricing for years . . . Happy Customer! 🎆🎆👍🏽👍🏽
I use those excat Micca speakers connected to the Douk Audio H7 pro with a 42 volt power supply. I'm pushing "close" to 300 watts to them. They sound great! Just don't blow them by cranking the volume to max! 🤣👍🏻
@@chrisnunya7171 - Wise words to live by! 😂😂 Strange though . . . the Micca MB42X reminds me of the old Realistic Minumus 7's of the late 80s which I use as 'B' speakers on another amp. Are the sound signatures of the Micca MB42X & Realistic Minumus 7's similar? The Minumus 7 is rated at 40 watts RMS with a frequency response of 60-20K (?) Hz. The Micca MB42X is rated at 75 watts (Peak?) with a frequency response of 60Hz-20kHz. Hmmmm . . . If it looks like a duck? 🙄🦆
Check the THD/SNR rates for these small amps. They look great at 1-10W and then fall off a cliff beyond. You can easily drive these little amps into distortion with not a lot of demand.
So yeah, thats fine for headphones and some small speakers but that's the upper limit. If you spend a few more hundred you can get dozens of amps that will drive almost *any* speaker/monitors out there.
Randy frequently references his Yamaha A-S301 because its a fantastic amp and will do much better than these little pocket amps, and you can pick up used 301's for excellent prices. The only drawback can be their size if thats relevant to your application.
@@jordanrussell345 can you name some amps brand new which can beat these class d amps. Used may not be an option most of the time so amps that are currently in production would be more helpful
You are the reason I bought my Sony CCSC5`s and have never looked back!!
Me too. I have two pair of them.
Yo Randy, not to nitpick but you said Micca MB42x Gen2 or g2 but the link is to the MB42x. Micca gives an Amazon link that says Currently unavailable for the Micca Mb42x G2 and doesn't know when or if they will be back in stock. I've been looking for the g2. I have the 42x and love them in their location, no sub needed. I should have jumped on the g2 when they came out! Killer channel by the way!
@@FullmoonImages they have been sold out for a while and have been trying to get them also
WAIT!! can stream amazon music.... and bluethooth, but you don't recommend blutooth???? Aren't I using bluetooth when I listen to amazon music with iphone?? I am cunfused by this. Can someone explain?
Randy, you're the funniest man on youtube, how come they haven't spotted you in Hollywood yet?
I like these reviews/guides to smaller and affordable systems. I live in a one-bedroom apartment that is fairly spacious, but not a place where I could fully use a larger system even though the construction is above average (one of these 'luxury' apartments). The WiiM is intriguing because I could use it with other gear. I have two UE Hyperboom speakers(with analogand SDPIF inputs), and they do sound better with direct input from my Samsung S23 Ultra...even if powered speakers get some shade. Thank you for this guide and Ill be purchasing.
Love your shirt!
if I substituted my Technics SLPD6 CD player for your "sourec", for now, would I need a preamp? Love your vids. Thx, Brent
I may need to try this. I have an extra pair of Klipsch speakers itching to find a purpose.
Love Amazon music, hard to beat
While those speakers may be $89.99 in the US, they are $282 internationally. Do you have any suggestions for speakers from the rest of the world? Cause the price is really inflated outside the USA.
Wish you showed the set up and played something through it. I know UA-cam would make it hard to discern what it sounds like but I’d still enjoy it!
And thanks for introducing me to all the different gear!
Nice setup. If one is patient, the Sony bookshelf speaker's can still be had for the same price as these micas and are far superior plus down the road you can apply Neil Blanchard's crossover upgrade and mods for something truly special.
The atmos cs5? That’s what I bought
Randy, I almost spit out my Gatorade watching your Harry’s commercial. Pretty funny stuff.
If you already have an amp it's even less. I had the Wiim mini as my second streamer. When I bought the Wiim Pro + I moved the Wiim Mini to my TV surround setup which has the Micca as it's left right speakers.
So I didn't need a new. amp. I set my Denon Surround to stereo mode and fed the Wiim mini into the Miccas.
If you're on an even cheaper budget, go find an old lamp or extension cord and cut off the ends. You just found your speaker cable lol!
@@yoster77 jeez
@@RetroPillowcase I know it sounds funny, but lamp cord is often 14awg (some even 12awg) pure copper strand. It's better than many name brand 'speaker wires' out there lol
@@yoster77 ok fair enough
I bought the Micca MB42X G2, mainly based on your reviews, and on Zeos'.
I've been very happy with them so far.
I haven't heard imaging this good on any speakers I've owned, since some older Tannoy speakers which had coaxial drivers.
The Miccas still output an impressive amount of bass for their size.
Much better if they are placed only a few inches from the wall, and the chair also close to the rear wall, to add some room gain.
Obviously they don't dig super deep with the bass, but still really enjoyable to listen to songs from all kinds of genres.
(I was listening to a bit of Ne Obliviscaris - Intra Venus on the Miccas earlier, and they coped fairly well with that challenge. lol)
I can't complain at all for the price, but I had to pay a bit more to get them shipped from Amazon US to the UK.
I'm using the Miccas with a mini TPA3250-based amp, which has DSP.
I agree about the Miccas having a bit too much in the lower-midrange.
I'll try using the DSP to tame that, then I think they will be really great.
I was previously using some PSB Alpha P5 speakers, but they don't even come close to the sound of the Miccas.
In fact, the PSBs seemed to have the opposite problem - they tend to have quite a big dip in midrange.
It was very noticeable when switching back to (almost any) other speakers.
I'll probably sell the PSB, and tempted to grab the NEUMI BS5 soon.
(ie. keeping the NEUMI BS5, Micca MB42X G2, and B&W dm303 for music / fun.)
All speakers for my home theatre are RSL CG23M (fronts), an CG3M (surrounds + heights).
And the RSL REO Speedwagon, I mean RSL Speedwoofer 10S MKII sub. lol
The RSLs are very neutral, which is kind of what you want for home theatre.
I'm definitely a fan now, of having different speakers purely for 2-channel music listening.
(you would think "good" home theatre speakers would be good at playing music as well, especially after room correction, but I have to admit I'm now a fan of the coloration of various speakers for music.)
my radio system in garage for playing a short wave receiver thru and a refurbished fm tuner from 1980. it has a 100$ on sale dayton hybrid tube amp, a $100 used pair great shape audio engine p4 speakers and a 100$ 6" subwoofer - originally bought for computer desktop. tuner was 50$.
blue jean cables 35
Could you run the Fosi Audio BL20C to get a Sub out? It's 89.99. Or is it not a decent amp. Can't be too much worse than the other...
Randy - I wanted to ask the same thing - what is the cheap amp you would recommend that has a sub out? Hey, we can go up to $300! LOL
@@davidnixon3743 At 300 ish, get the Yamaha A-S301. Really good sounding 100w amp
The Fosi BT300 Pro has what your looking for.
Nice one!
I just came across your channel while looking for a good budget stereo set up
I'm particularly picky about warm speakers & amps as i listen to music for long hours at a go, what are some of the best budget warm sounding bookshelves, amplifier/AVR & floor standing speakers out there which i actually want to use as my front speakers for a good stereo set up
Very informative vid
Thanks!
Like everything you recommend - except streamers. Renting music is just not for me - not having ownership rights to media is just taking society in wrong direction. But I don’t expect any others to agree. I still appreciate your channel.
I agree. I purchase all of my music. I don't even understand the concept.
4:58 could someone explain why bluetooth = bad? is it just lower fidality audio?
@@LilypadOW The Bluetooth Standard today is still lossy on audio.
For example, Apple standard AAC only can send 256 Kb for second, you can find this data as 256 kbps.
Today, a CD Quality song need at least 1400 kbps or maybe more.
Even if you use the best of the best on Bluetooth on Sony's Android Phones, you can't go forward that 900 kbps.
Is way simpler to assume that Bluetooth is always lossy for this reason, and that's why you never wanna use it.
Finally, for the video itself... If you buy the Wiim product, you can use your own wifi to bring music on lossless quality over the web.
Greetings.
How about a cheap amp also with sub out like Fosi does that exist?
Randy, what are your thoughts on the Denon scm41? In your opinion, are they worth $120?
i want to personally thank you. i Bought the fosi audo bt20a and the aiyima a07 on your recommendations.its revived a pc system with some 1980s missions 761s and with spotify allowed some nice pleasure for music since i stopped using hifi separates decades ago.I also have realised the snobbery and hate towards these low cost chinese products from self proclaimed snobby audiophiles that wish to spend 1000s on posh amplifiers.
Presonus eris e3.5 & Yamaha hs3 ???
Speaking of row boats, what wifi powered speaker, with tidal connect, can I buy for the same money? My row boat needs a system.
Swap the speakers for pre-owned to do it properly though!
How could you add a pair of budget headphones to this? And what would you recommend?
I just saw your review of the fosi where you call it a DUD. Can someone explain??
Nice video. Absolutely agree the WiiM Mini is great. WiiM also interfaces very well with Alexa. Much better than BluSound.
Just curious - you review Emotiva stuff, which is direct to consumer, but I don’t recall you doing many other DTC speakers. Do they just not provide demo equipment? Examples: Zu, LSA, NHT, Ascend, Tyler.
your back!!!!!!!
Been using Harry's for a couple of years and 👍 - 👍
I took your advice and and bought this setup with an audio technica base model turntable for my College son who wants to get into hifi. Also bought him Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the moon album. He likes my kind of music 🤔 strange. I tested it all and it does sound good. Thx.
If you want an even cheaper source and don't need a digital output, get an amazon echo 3rd generation. You can get those used for about 30 $. Unfortunately there is no skill for Tidal but you get Spotify, Amazon music (of course) or Deezer. Plus voice control!
Thanks Randy! Im a huge noob tho idk how to set any of this up 😂
Only in USA. The Micca costs around 270€ in Europe.
Yesss, I like it cheap
Speakers are $214 in Canada Amazon.
You can use 13amp mains cable without issues and upgrade later. As for hifi, your talking new items. you could save a lot more if you bought second hand, if its just about having a system.
That said, some great bargains to be had in the lower end market, active monitors and earphone amp/dac/pre's at the lowest cost areas are actually measuring stupidly well and accurate too boot, they just do not look fancy. I already have too much hifi yet really trying to sneak some savings past the wife for Topping and Kali for the PC.
What is the better Deal? Q acoustics 5020 for 750 or Elac unifi reference for 520 ?
Also find wharfedale Linton for 750!?
Hey Randy how about for the extreme bass lover on a budget ,adding 2x FOSI AUDIO MO1 sub amp to a dual voice coil subwoofer??? You know we love our bass here in Texas .
I just want to spend all my money on upgrades where I can't tell the difference. I thought that was the point?
lol. You’re right. It absolutely is
The system is very basic and average don't believe the hype , ok for a teenager who has never heard music before e
@@misterzero8667 the point is to bring people into the hobby at a price that most can afford.
@@misterzero8667Do you have this system?
@@ofcourseimfullofit I tried the Fosi TB10D. I prefer my SMSL SA100. For me the Fosi was just "meh". Nothing special at all. "It outputs sound". Cheap but okay. It NEEDS to be paired with the Miccas (which I haven't tried yet) to add some "oomph" to the system, I guess.
Randy,
It's time to expand your channel from Cheap...... to Cheap and Frugal Audio..... now to include ALL price point stuff !! Make Harry's humorous !!!!
Me Handels Messiah Guy Gordon (Cellohead)
MB42X Gen 2 been Out of Stock for Months
How would baby advents sound with this system? Been watching a long time just subscribed. This would be perfect In living room. Wife hates big stereo stuff.
Why is it not recommended to use Bluetooth for streaming?
. You can get real close to the answer on your own Kim. First ask yourself, what does Blutooth for streaming do for us? Why do we do it? Then ask yourself, what IS being recommended? Then ask yourself, what's the difference between the two?
Occam's razor could get you the rest of the way there, where it will inevitably raise further signal (hint) questions.
If you try this exercise in critical thinking & take a guess, I'd be happy to grade your homework.
Acid Jazz, Funk & Brass 🔈🔉🔊
All ads should be like this in sponsored videos.
Randy!!! I saw you also called this amp "A DUD" in your other review!!! What's going on here???
Are you looking for redemption after the expensive stuff?
Bravo Randy! Don't get me wrong, I love when you talk about more aspirational product and show us Italian HiFi factory porn. After all, a guy needs to dream. But, this is your secret sauce. I'm currently rocking the Wiim Pro + into a Fosi V3 with the big boy power supply, coming out of the Sony SSCS5. All based on your recommendations. Sounds great and is perfect for my current situation. Heck I even waited until each one went on sale, based again on your videos. Thank You!
Hardly touched the tone control, - set flat on my vintage 70s Marantz.
UMMMM - Fosi BT20 (Not Pro) is 40% off making it $48
Thanks for the video, but I'd rather go with the Denon scm41. Great little speakers.
The loudspeakers st Amazon go up to $278
What is the song? Such a cute dance
Got my mom to switch to YTTV, you can convince the wife.
I wish JVC would bring back their gigatube shelf systems 😔
I define audiophiles as people who care about audio equipment because that's how everyone else defines it. Obviously it's not a truly literal translation. But the average English speaker, pretty much anywhere in the world thinks of audiophiles as people (males) who are interested in audio EQUIPMENT. it's about the gear. Just admit it guys.
Another way to define it, (that no non-gearhead will ever adopt) is any person who cares about sound quality after purchasing a competent sound system. There are many people who are into gear and who pay attention to sound quality when they are shopping for a new sound system. A certain segment of the shoppers abruptly stop paying attention to any of that once their system is in place. Those people are not audiophiles. Those are educated shoppers.
Another (poorly supported) definition would be anyone who is interested in sound in general. That describes me, but it's really not what I think makes me an audiophile. I'm as interested in what's available for sale as much as I am in any other aspect of home audio.
I think this is s great video. It's a great idea and I think the recommendations are solid.
I wish my tires were that cheap.
It’s double the price in Canada for the same system 🤣
FYI, The Miccas are inexplicably almost 2 1/2 times the price here in Canada at $216. The Sony SSCS5s are similarly high priced at $325. The other components are about 30-50% higher.
The last thing I would ever want in an audiophile system is a streamer. Audiophile and streamer are mutually exclusive, IMO. I want the best fidelity I can get and my source material in my physical possession. BTW, I do have a couple of Fosi TB-10D amps supplying audio on PCs used for beta testing. They do a great job. Sony SSCS5 speakers on one and Polk R10 on the other.
add a cheap blu ray player to this set up and your in business.
why not use your phone as a source
@@DenzCasuela you certainly can
Sponsored by Fosi and Wiim..... Seriously though, I think you can do better if you can find a deal on something like the Elac 4.1's, they deliver serious mid-bass and up audiophile performance. I got a pair on sale on Amazon for $88 and they are fab.
I am an idiot I spent $3000. 😊
If you spent 3k on this exact setup, then yeah; if you spent 3k on higher-end components, then you’re fine since it all boils down to what you really like, want and can afford 😊
This video about cheap audio on a channel called cheapaudioman is going to upset a lot of people!
Why does cheapaudioman look like Gordon Freeman from Half Life?
@RenePolster
vor 3 Minuten
For a first this will be a great System. Personally i would go with the Arylic B50 because oft the Subwoofer out and the WiimAmp Pro.Maybe a bit better Speakers....My Suggestion Klipsch 50 rm......Yess i Know its Double the Price but i think also Double the Fun........
Antworten
Youre getting absolutely shafted on your tires, man.
I'd bet that when you were a kid you made your parent's house just as much a mess as your kids now make yours.
Man you should say 250 $ in the USA here in Canada it’s more 600 $ 😂
Last year you disliked integrated amps! How are you?
I'm doing well. I appreciate you watching so many of my videos though. How are you?
👎 to Harry's
Yep, it effing sucks!