Top 10 Best (and Worst) Speakers Under $300!

Summary

In this video, the speaker reviews various speakers under $300, categorizing them into terrible, average, and great options. They discuss the technical aspects like frequency response and sensitivity, using objective data to support their opinions. The video highlights the Pronus AYS 3.5 as poor, while praising the Cali Audio LP UNF and Pulk XT20 for their value and performance. The speaker emphasizes the importance of objective data for making informed purchasing decisions.

Takeaways

• 🎧 The speaker reviews a variety of speakers under $300, narrowing down to a list of about 10.
• 🚫 He eliminates speakers that are 'Flatout terrible' based on sound quality and other factors.
• 🔊 The difference between powered and passive speakers is explained, with the former having a built-in amplifier.
• 📉 He discusses the Pronus AYS 3.5 Second Edition, criticizing its unnatural sound and hollowness.
• 📈 The F-sp3 is highlighted for its poor frequency response with a significant delta between mid-range and highs.
• 📉 The Yamoo/Jamoo S803 is criticized for its bright sound and low sensitivity.
• 🎶 The Kanto YU4 is noted for its forward sound due to a resonance around 1-2 kHz.
• 🔊 The Mah RB42 is criticized for poor in-room response due to a poorly designed crossover.
• 👍 The Sony SS-CS5 is popular among reviewers, but the speaker's performance is considered just 'okay'.
• 👍 The Numei BS5P ARC is praised for its HDMI input, subwoofer output, and overall good frequency response linearity.
• 👍 The Pulk XT20 and Cali Audio LP UNF are recommended as the best options for their price, with the latter noted for its excellent frequency response linearity.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of the video script?

The primary focus of the video script is to review and discuss various speakers under $300, highlighting their sound quality, performance, and value for money.

What is the difference between powered and passive speakers mentioned in the script?

Powered speakers have a built-in amplifier, while passive speakers do not. This is an important distinction as it affects the overall performance and setup requirements of the speakers.

What are the three speakers listed as 'terrible' in the script?

The three speakers considered 'terrible' are the Pronus AYS 3.5 Second Edition, the F Sp3, and the Yamoo/Jamoo S803.

How does the speaker evaluate the sound quality of the speakers?

The speaker evaluates sound quality by discussing frequency response, sensitivity, resonance, and overall listening experience, often using technical terms like 'mid-range suckout' and 'high Q base boost'.

What is the significance of the term 'mid-range suckout' used in the script?

'Mid-range suckout' refers to a significant drop in the mid-range frequencies of a speaker's sound, which can make the sound appear hollow or lacking in fullness.

What does the speaker mean by 'baffle step compensation'?

Baffle step compensation is a design consideration in speakers that accounts for the change in sensitivity and frequency response when a driver is placed in a cabinet versus on an infinitely large baffle.

What are the two speakers that the speaker gives 'two thumbs up' to?

The two speakers that the speaker highly recommends are the passive Pulk XT20 and the powered Cali Audio LP UNF.

What is the importance of the F3 point in speaker evaluation?

The F3 point is where the sound pressure level (SPL) is down about 3 dB compared to the mean sensitivity. It indicates the lowest frequency at which the speaker can reproduce sound effectively, affecting the bass performance.

How does the speaker use objective data to support his opinions on the speakers?

The speaker uses a CLIO nearfield scanner analyzer system to gather objective anechoic data, which he then compares with his subjective listening experiences to provide a balanced review.

What is the speaker's stance on using anechoic data for speaker reviews?

The speaker believes that anechoic data is crucial for understanding how a speaker sounds before it is placed in a room, allowing for more accurate and reasonable comparisons across different speakers.

How does the speaker suggest using equalization to improve speaker performance?

The speaker suggests that equalization can be used to adjust the frequency response of speakers, particularly to address issues like a dip in the lower treble or a bump in the mid-range.