My Top Ten Speakers From Cheap to Expensive (2024)

Summary

The video reviews the top 10 speakers of 2024, focusing on various models regardless of price. The speaker list includes newcomers like the PMC Prodigy1 and long-time favorites like the Sony SSCS5. The host discusses features, price ranges, and performance details, explaining why some models remain or leave the list. Special attention is given to both passive and powered speakers, with highlights on brands like Sonus Faber, Polk, Q Acoustics, and Emotiva. The review also covers discontinued models and new arrivals that stand out for their sound quality and build.

Takeaways

• 🔊 The Klipsch The Nines are beautiful and convenient powered speakers, but they were removed from the list because the focus is on passive speakers.
• 🎶 The PMC Prodigy1 replaced Klipsch The Nines in the $1,500 range, offering dynamic, bass-heavy sound from a smaller speaker.
• 💸 The Elac BS41, priced between $120 to $160, remains a solid choice in 2024, with great bass extension for its size.
• 🛠️ The Sony SSCS5 is still a top choice for value-conscious buyers, even though some people don't love it.
• 👋 The SVS Ultra Bookshelf speakers, previously on the list, are discontinued but recommended if you can find them on sale for $800.
• 🇮🇹 The Sonus Faber Lumina 2 became the new favorite, with Italian craftsmanship and punchy sound in a compact form.
• 🏛️ The Q Acoustics 5040, a curvy, natural-sounding floor-standing speaker, replaced Klipsch floor standers in the lineup.
• 🔄 The Polk R200 was replaced by the Emotiva XB2, a newer model with updated tweeters and woofers.
• 🎉 The Wharfedale Linton remains one of the best values in Hi-Fi, especially for those seeking a vintage aesthetic.
• 💡 The Arendal 1723 Monitor S THX is a great speaker, but its price tag feels a bit high, and it would be better priced at $1,500 without the THX certification.

Q & A

What type of speakers are primarily discussed in the video?

The video primarily discusses passive speakers, which require an external amplifier.

Why was the Klipsch The Nines speaker removed from the list?

The Klipsch The Nines was removed because it is a powered speaker with an amp, DAC, and other features, making it atypical for a list focused on passive speakers.

What speaker replaced the Klipsch The Nines on the list?

The PMC Prodigy1 replaced the Klipsch The Nines on the list. It is a transmission line speaker known for delivering dynamic, deep bass in a compact form.

What makes the Elac BS41 notable among affordable speakers?

The Elac BS41 is notable for its excellent bass extension, especially for a speaker with a 4-inch woofer. It remains firmly on the list due to its high value for its price, ranging between $120 and $160.

Why does the Sony SSCS5 continue to be included on the list?

The Sony SSCS5 remains on the list because it consistently delivers high value in the budget speaker category, even though it has received mixed reactions from some users.

What speaker replaced the SVS Ultra Bookshelf speaker?

The Sonus Faber Lumina II replaced the SVS Ultra Bookshelf. The Lumina II is described as a compact, beautifully crafted Italian speaker that delivers powerful, dynamic sound.

What is unique about the Q Acoustics 5040 speaker?

The Q Acoustics 5040 is an MTM (midrange-tweeter-midrange) floor-standing speaker that offers natural sound, great bass, and dynamic performance. Its curvy design adds to its aesthetic appeal.

Which speaker has a magnetic grill and was replaced by the Emotiva XB2?

The Polk R200, known for its big sound and magnetic grill, was replaced by the Emotiva XB2, which features new drivers and an updated design.

What is the Warfdale Linton praised for in the video?

The Warfdale Linton is praised for its excellent soundstage, real wood veneer, and value. It is recommended for those who appreciate vintage-style speakers with a rich heritage.

What speaker does the video host think is overpriced, and what is their suggestion?

The Arendal 1723 Monitor S THX is considered overpriced at $2,499. The host suggests that Arendal could remove the THX certification and lower the price to $1,500 to make it more competitive.