Over A Year with KEF R11 Towers,Would I Want To Keep Listening ?
Рет қаралды 36,299
Күн бұрынAssociated Equipments,
KEF R11 Speaker: amzn.to/3acMlB8, ebay.us/nXCI8d
Music by Grace Mahya: ebay.us/5WV1Ny
Musician Aquarius DAC: amzn.to/33Wzan9
Sony HAP-Z1ES: amzn.to/3ckCZ5w
Denon PMA-SX11 Integrated Amplifier: ebay.us/NllM5G
JBL Studio 530:amzn.to/3HgOxWc
SMSL D300 DAC: amzn.to/3q78gS8
Musician Aquarius DAC: amzn.to/33Wzan9
Gustard U18 DDC: amzn.to/3F5Wahi
Polk Reserve R200: amzn.to/3GDwk4G
ELAC UBR62 Speaker: amzn.to/3l5Upc7
Oyaide Neo D+ Class A USB Cable: amzn.to/3uGFAi4
Mogami AES Cable: amzn.to/3q5RYaV
iFi SuperNova AC Power Cable: amzn.to/3J1j3Vu
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PS Audio AC-12 Power Cable: amzn.to/2YQo2Tx
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Oyaide Black Mamba Alpha AC Power Cord: ebay.us/5T2uZP
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Video Timeline
0:00 R11 Long Term Review
9:22 Using with Subs
14:56 2.0 Sound Sample
18:28 2.2 Sound Sample
@masudaharris6435 Жыл бұрын
As far as I'm concerned, it's not which are the better speakers or the best speakers. It's which speakers you want to keep hearing, the ones you want to come back to. And I keep coming back to these.
@agentm83 2 жыл бұрын
appreciate your honest reviews!
@vincemarasigan199 Жыл бұрын
Thank you for nice critical review of KEF R11’s. I’ve had mine since 2019 and I also have them set up as 2.2 with pair of REL S510’s. Love the combination. I don’t get bored with this set-up. 👍👍👍
@Tharbamar Жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing.
@CaptainCrunch823 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for another great video! I totally agree with you. I had the R7’s for a while and also found them to be very enjoyable but could also get boring over the long term. I actually found that I prefer the older R700’s as they let through a bit more of the actual source material, whether good or bad. I then moved to Reference 1’s which have this magical ability to let through detail without harshness or fatigue. I liked them so much that I added Reference 5’s and a Reference 4C to my home theatre.
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing.
@GamingRevenant Ай бұрын
I have the R11's and I agree that if you want studio-level recording fidelity, you need to step up to the Reference or Blades. They are unfortunately out of my price range, which is why I went with the R11 to get as close as possible. We auditioned them side-by-side (the R11 towers standing literally next to the Reference 5's in the listening room of our local dealer), and I believe that overall the R11 is much more value for your money than the Reference (I'm speaking dollar-per-advantage gains). Sure, the Reference will get you a better listening experience and both me and my partner agreed the Reference 5 was slightly better sounding, but when we looked at the price difference at the time (€14.000 gap) it was a no-brainer because it didn't hold up for that huge of a step-up and it was out of our budget anyways. If you absolutely MUST have the most realistically representable audio you can find, I wouldn't even bother and just go straight for the Blades (cause I believe that if you are ready to drop Reference 5 cash you simply also can buy the Blades). I do not believe most commercial music and even acoustic music is ever released with studiograde quality. Not even the SACD's.
@exlipse123 2 жыл бұрын
I have to congratulate you! If all reviewers would have the courage to say the things you say about speakers, then reviews would actually be good for something else other than marketing. Excellent and detailed description of sound signature, excellent description of minuses and pluses. I had the chance to listen to Blade Two, Reference 5 and R11. You are 100% accurate on everything you told us. You managed to put into words the feeling of listening to R11. A+ for you my friend! TOP!!!
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for comment.
@kunkundalin 2 жыл бұрын
How would you describe the differences between the models? I'd love a reply!
@PP-nh1lv 2 жыл бұрын
Well, that was a lot of pros and cons going on there Tharbamar! You suggest you can hear things better with their reference series but the bookshelfs start at $3000 more than the R 11's and if you want a similar looking tower, the reference 3s are $15,000! I think the cons outweigh the pros for a mere $6000! I've got mine on order!
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
Still very good sounding speakers and great choice. Thanks
@nonametofame 2 жыл бұрын
I appreciate this long term review. It demonstrates there is no one perfect speaker. There are always tradeoffs. You can get much wider dispersion, but then lose precise center imaging. You may get extended airy highs, but at the expense of sounding too bright for some recordings. Then there's the inevitability of simply getting to used to its sound signature, and getting bored. I try to combat this by having a rotation of different speakers so I can change up my experience, and not have to invest in new speakers every year. You either have to be wealthy or have to feed your KZfaq channel.
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
Yes definitely there is no perfect speaker, I rotate them with CSS 2TDX Towers and a few more speakers. Thanks
@tee-jaythestereo-bargainph2120 9 ай бұрын
You on the money !
@bencausey 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you!
@SlicedBread1001 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you. This sort of long term feedback is so useful. My experience is similar, except with b&w CM series. They’re great HI-Fi, but they lack a certain naturalness which is key to deliver music. It’s a difficult problem to solve.
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
Personally I could not listen to CM series as well, thanks
@SlicedBread1001 2 жыл бұрын
Yes, I think the CMs work for a specific type of music mixed in a specific way…otherwise they can be quite fatiguing
@moneymaker251 5 ай бұрын
I love them ..sound quality is great ..
@myu4039 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks!
@gaurd3 2 жыл бұрын
They definitely have a sweet spot.
@FunnyVideosLover 9 ай бұрын
I started with lsx wireless and now i am on ls50 wireless first gen. Granted I don’t have experience with a multitude of brands but kef really is my favorite right now.
@williammorales8204 Жыл бұрын
I'm going to try this argument to upgrade my speakers on my s.o, though I have the feeling I'm going to get the 'real life sound " of no in a very realistic, organic, and neutral sound.
@nman5348 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the honest review. I have a pair of R11 and been using them for about 3 months. I am very pleased with their performance. I have not paired with a subwoofer; I think I got good and solid bass (after some trials with different power amps). These speakers are very picky in term of recording quality. They can bring out bad stuffs from poor recording tracks. With high quality recording music, they sound amazing!
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
You’re welcome, Yes they do have good bass in my room as well but not to the low 20hz, one thing I forgot to mention is no life or engaging sound in conversation level loudness, it needs to be above 65db to sound properly musical, thanks
@nman5348 2 жыл бұрын
Thank for the recommendation! I have not gone passing 50db so far with my setup since with good recording tracks it is sufficiently loud enough. I will get there with other tracks someday.
@martin.krencey 2 жыл бұрын
@@Tharbamar Here I found that different amplification can help. Kef is notorious for not sounding good at low levels with certain amps. Denon being one. If you have a chance to try a different amp, kindly do try and let me know. Thank you.
@giangvu7902 2 жыл бұрын
I agree with your assessment
@rickp6731 Жыл бұрын
The all new Kef R11 Meta's are out now !
@reginaldjohnson2289 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for your advice on amplifier, what you think about me buying the R7’s or Q 950s
@De132an Жыл бұрын
Hello, thank you for your KZfaq channel, I enjoy your reviews, I consider them an unbiased opinion useful for some of us, and making it easier for us with decisions purchasing audio gear. So are you looking for a Reference 1 or higher up the Kef Reference line?
@Tharbamar Жыл бұрын
I’m still using R11 and L100c75, may be something different in the future, thanks
@reginaldjohnson2289 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for another great review, I was thinking about the R7’s or the Q 950’s, I have a large room and I’m still researching both for home theater and music, what amp would you recommend for either speakers? Thanks
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
I like them with Denon or Yamaha amplifiers, thanks
@earlismarks7108 2 жыл бұрын
Very interesting...
@kirkaparty4143 2 жыл бұрын
Nice Honest Review. I had the KEF R300 with similar realities and limitations. Did you set the speakers to play full range or 35hz cutoff? Generally is it better to have the speakers play full range and ADD the subwoofer contribution? thanks
@martifilipponi1024 2 жыл бұрын
I listened to the speakers twice and there's just something missing in the mids and the highs. The Lows are out of this world you do not need a sub unless you need to go very low for movies..
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
@Kirk Aparty, Yes always full range, two subwoofers crossing over around 35hz, Thanks
@MrThunderDoom 2 жыл бұрын
For me the R11 is so good , i had the R700 before , but my opinion is that the R11 is far superior to those! I think it´s very importantl to use the right components to get the most out of this speakers. I use a Hegel 390 together with a LUMIN X1 streamer and two KF92 subwoofers.
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
They never sound bad in my system it's just not as realistic enough, also dispersion is not as good even in comparison to cheaper alternatives such as entry level Dali or JBL bookshelf speakers. I tried with a few amps including H590, it is much better musical sound for me with Denon PMA-SX11 than with Hegel H590 Amp that I tried, I can go up to 100db+ range playing AC/DC without even noticing in 2.0 set up, that's how good they sound in my system but in low level listening of 50db range R11 is not good enough, not even as good as LS50, which has incredibly good low level sound quality regardless of the price and sensitivity rating, R11 only come alive after 65-75db range of loudness, thanks PS, if you believe Lumin streamer sound great with R11 speakers, I would like to suggest you to try Aquarius DAC, it will/can take you to whole new level.
@MrThunderDoom 2 жыл бұрын
@@Tharbamar Thanks a lot for the Replay . I have to mention though that a. pfsense router did a hole lot of a detailng and i felt that the R11 went to another level
@MrThunderDoom 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the info about the aquarius dac! Hard to get hold of one here in Norway. Guess it's okey using it with the Lumin , but seems like i need a preamplifieri using both?😊
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
@@MrThunderDoom Great options to have both for sure.
@hclandscapes 2 жыл бұрын
@@Tharbamar i definitely noticed that when i listened to some KEF R5's on a Hegel H90 a while back, i had to turn the volume up to 50% for them R5's to wake up, anything below was barely audible. my Dynaudio Emit 30's sound great even at very low volumes unfortunately they dont sound so great with certain types of music when turned up as the bass can become a bit lose.
@PP-nh1lv 2 жыл бұрын
Just curious Tharbamar, how would you compare or rate the R11s to your old Martin Logins. I'm going from an old pair of Spires which both my wife and I really loved to the R11s. We just couldn't allow the space around the ML's in our new smaller home. Thanks
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
Martin Logan Midrange and Highs are clearer with more air around the notes but R11 have better drivers integration across the frequency range and power handling, Martin Logan drivers integration is not as good between the panel and bass driver, I would suggest you to try front ported design in your system, thanks
@allanbensaull2223 Жыл бұрын
One of the best and honest reviews, Thank You.
@eddievega1100 Жыл бұрын
Long time no see . Here’s one for you . Kenrick sounds. Look them up they repair , and refinish JBL speakers ,
@michaellim1425 2 ай бұрын
Hi Tharbamar. First, thank you for all your reviews. I have 2 questions. (1) Which speaker (Wharfedale Elysian 2 or Kef R11) has more bass? (2) After plus one year with Kef r11, would you still choose Kef r11 over Elysian 2? Thanks.
@panblue43 2 жыл бұрын
Hi! Flat, "dry" loudspeakers never can do the musical experience, and could be as less enjoyable as a little bit coloured loudspeaker.This is why I not prefer "audiophil" or "high-end". Details are very good to hear but flat sounding without rounded bass, vocals without life and trebles without sparkling no the way for me. A good system (from little to big) could be enjoyable without tone controls, loudness or subs. (except bad/defective room acoustics)
@JR-lc1dv 2 жыл бұрын
One listening example on yt impressing me most last year was the Fyne Audio F704 on Audio Thien HA. Think they have this spacious live experience you are looking for. The Male voice around 9:30 is absolutely stunning. Hope I can hear them live sometime.
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
I’m almost done breaking in JBL L100 Classic 75th, I will see how they compare to R11 in my system, will try FYNE speakers when I have chance, thanks
@CarvalhoCaldeira 2 жыл бұрын
The 2.2 sounds like it's bringing the lower frequencies that the speakers can't physically play. Did you set a crossover for the subs?
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
Sub is crossing over around 35hz, thanks
@parsiababaeian8637 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for great video , Honestly I use headphones and try to hear the difference with/without subwoofer , The difference is very slightly better with subwoofer , I am using regular headphone with with my IPHONE , Am I missing something to do not hear the difference much?!
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
That’s how it should be because I didn’t like bass heavy sound, just added the subs only where is needed but in real world with better music would be much more impressive and sound, thanks
@christopherguerra4527 2 жыл бұрын
You stated that the Kef R11's weren't great for off axis listening (which I do a lot of). Would you have any brand recommendations that would be better for off axis listening?
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
JBL L100 Classic 75th vs KEF R11, What would you pick? kzfaq.info/get/bejne/mr5lq9intdy9oo0.html
@Rod007man Жыл бұрын
I currently own Kef R3 paired with Rotel 1592 integrated amplifier (400W /2 power) and two Martin Logan Dynamo 800 Subs. I love the sound of the R3 but have always wanted to upgrade to KEF R11. Ive been offered Bowers and Wilkins 804 D3 for less than a pair of KEF R11 (Less than KEF R11 sale price open box.) I am not familiar with Bowers sound, I've owned KEF LS50 and upgraded KEF R3. Whats your take?
@Tharbamar Жыл бұрын
Go for it, Never look back! R11 is great but you are getting much better speaker for less.
@mariuskrieger289 Жыл бұрын
Did you have the chance to listen to the R11 Meta yet? Just heard them today side by side and to my ear, the Meta is like one entire level above the non-meta. Wouldn't have imagined the difference to be so big.
@pedee4 Жыл бұрын
Incredibly good when paired with a Mac. Head and shoulders above the prior R11 and Bowers 702 S3 IMO.
@mariuskrieger289 Жыл бұрын
@@pedee4 I fully agree as I heard the S3 and regular R11 too only recently, except for the Mac part. You should probably buy a proper DAC streamer 😉
@Shoaibexpert 2 жыл бұрын
Which speakers did you like more than the R11s that's you've listened to, other than the Reference 5s? Thanks
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
I liked Harbeth Super HL5 plus XD with sub, Sonus Faber Sonetto V slightly more than R11, thanks
@Shoaibexpert 2 жыл бұрын
@@Tharbamar Surprised you liked a single driver Harberh more than the multi driver R11s. Very interested to understand what makes those speakers different. Thanks
@SuperHinckley 2 жыл бұрын
How you compare Kef R11 with Wharfedale elysian 2 which you review it in the past? Thank you for your work, all the best
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
E2 had more air between the notes, slightly cleaner bass but not as deep, they were even more less exciting than R11 in the long run, E2 is great for Jazz, acoustic and slower music but not for rock or modern music, thanks
@SuperHinckley 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you for your answer. You can tell me pls if you hear sony ta-a1 es in the past and if, your opinion about it ? It can be compared with denon sx11 somehow? Thank you, all the best
@MrOutlawDave Жыл бұрын
I would like to see you review the Arendal 1723 towers.
@arpeemac 2 жыл бұрын
that's the advantage of being able to play or being exposed to actual instruments. in guitars for example, if you know the difference between a Martin or a Taylor, a jumbo-sized or a parlor-sized acoustic guitar; a custom shop strat or a squier, a marshall plexi or a fender tweed, then you may be able to figure out if a pair of speakers is true to its sound.
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
Yes music is important part of life since I was a little, I love the tonal balanced of Martin Dreadnought Guitars. thanks
@arpeemac 2 жыл бұрын
@@Tharbamar im a big kef fan. I have the old kef c85 towers (made in uk) and for almost 30 years now it has given me joy. I practically grew up with these speakers. So i felt bad that the R11 did not give you the "life-like" experience that you were describing. Perhaps a different amp-preamp combination?
@okanaganmedia 11 ай бұрын
What are your thoughts on the Kef R11 versus the Martin Logan ESL? Do you like the ESL Speakers
@Tharbamar 11 ай бұрын
I had ML ESL speakers a few years back in 2012, I liked them with Jazz or easy listening music in general but R11 is more suited for my diverse music tastes than ESL speakers, I was using them with Parasound Halo A21 and upgraded to Halo JC5 amplifier to pair with them, it was great experience but now I have different preferences, thanks
@johnnyholm1493 2 жыл бұрын
Sounds like you need a pair of Martin Logan speakers. I've heard R3, R7 and R11 before ending up with a pair of ML esl.
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
I had ESL before they are ok with air, speed and clarity but not dynamic enough with rock music and driver integration is not that great for me, thanks
@martymcfly3837 2 жыл бұрын
Hello Tharbamar, maybe try a Heco LaDiva...extremly transparent...its stunning...greetings
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
Definitely I will try them when I have chance, thanks
@thoughtcrime8739 2 жыл бұрын
Good honest review. Thank you. Based on what you mentioned, I was wondering did you adjust your parametric eq to achieve the sound that you desired?
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
There is no EQ or DSP in my system,thanks
@kingtrance307 2 жыл бұрын
Anybody heard the new Polk R700’s? Would they hold a candle to the R 11’s or is this apples and oranges?
@TheDoctor46 2 жыл бұрын
Can u please do a comparative between ur Denon PMA-SX11 vs PMA-A110
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
To be honest, there is no comparison SX-11 is Class A bias design with A-110 AB design and they are in different class in sound quality and build quality, SX-11 compete with Accuphase E-480 in their home market, thanks
@classicrock7890 2 жыл бұрын
I think you hit on the problem with KEF speaker sound. I also think similar with B&W. 'Hi-Fi' sound is not good long term. Using the Evo 4.4 which are far cheaper but more musical. I do think a less detailed and warmer presentation can be more satisfying for listening to real music. Also you want speakers that sound good with lesser quality recordings as well as the best audiophile standard.
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
Sorry none of Wharfedale speakers can do for what I want, only Elysian series came close but they lack the excitement in long term as well, I do not wish to have speakers that sound good with less quality recording because R11 is pretty good at it, that’s why I did say not revealing enough in this video, thank you for your advice.
@keerthikumar2023 3 ай бұрын
Do you recommend dual T9/x subwoofers for a mixed music and home theater setup? I own the KEF R11s
@Tharbamar 3 ай бұрын
Definitely it would more balanced sound than single sub.
@keerthikumar2023 3 ай бұрын
@@Tharbamar I’m also thinking of getting one S/812 for the same budget instead of two T/9x. What do you think of this choice?
@DH-og5yr 2 ай бұрын
@@keerthikumar2023most “sub guys” say 2 cheaper subs. It’s not to blow the house down, it’s to give all seating positions an even sound.
@gregmartinez5836 Жыл бұрын
I have the 705s2's. I'm want some floorstanders but not sure if I want the 702's, and use the 705's as surrounds. Im using a parasound a51. They are more accurate are revealing but kinda tiring at louder levels. Not sure if I should get the r'11. They sound enticing for sure!
@DH-og5yr 2 ай бұрын
Revel
@apexracing741 2 жыл бұрын
Would the R11 work ok in a 10ft by 18ft room with the speakers being across the 10ft wall?
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
It will be fine if you don’t play very very loud.
@apexracing741 2 жыл бұрын
@@Tharbamar Thank you 😎
@vincent77295 Жыл бұрын
hi tharbarmer should I choose kef r7 or wharfedale evo4.4, kef r3 or wharfedale evo4.2
@Tharbamar Жыл бұрын
R series for more neutral much better acoustical accuracy and performance.
@hclandscapes 2 жыл бұрын
i think you are searching for something that doesn't exist, i have been following you on this channel for a few years now and im always amazed how your opinion changes on a pair of speakers that you once thought were absolutely amazing and then something new comes along then your once favourite speakers become obsolete. i have heard quite a few experienced Audiophile reviewers talk about speaker realism and that no speaker in the world no matter how expensive will come close to an actual real life sound. some sound more realistic than others and some sound larger than life it just depends what you like .
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
@HJC, Two years is long enough for a pair of speakers in my system, I’m not planning to eat steak everyday. I will be experiencing as many speakers as I can to enjoy, after all purpose of any hobby is all about having fun for me.
@stanc2288 Ай бұрын
What other speakers also have this essence?
@briancampbell7712 Жыл бұрын
I would love to hear the 3 brands for comparison Advane Paris Myconnect 250 ....Anthem and AVM 90 ... Vincent SV-700
@diluxe 2 жыл бұрын
Did you listen to the reference with the same Denon amp ?
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
It was with two different amps, regular Denon AV receiver and Accuphase E-480.
@brandoncheco582 2 жыл бұрын
which would be a better buy kef R11 or JBL Studio 590 Also When On Sale ?
@DiB404 6 ай бұрын
JBL Studio 590 best
@psyphonyxaudio 2 жыл бұрын
Why is there a Yellow colour on the KEF tweeter?
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
Appeared to be excess glue.
@jeremycrabtree7683 2 жыл бұрын
Id sell my own mother for a pair of r11"s! Looking fwd to what u come up with!
@junior-OG 2 жыл бұрын
🙂
@nic2098 5 ай бұрын
Real music is not flat at all, there are very highs and lows and very good mids ranges live music is very alive and full of crazy frequencies sounding good and pleasing is not the same as live performances
@Greg.Siucrazyforaudio2016 11 ай бұрын
They roll off early , that is why I don't like them , they're smooth razor sharp refinement , to me extremely natural= boring sound .over time people don't really want to keep them for long ,not revealing is bad to me , some music is required speakers present in a revealing way , this is what KEF R11 downside from my experience.Thanks Tharbamar , I'm totally ageeded your review results. I'm eyeing on Martin Logan Motion xt100 , hopefully some more reviewers can do more pros and cons about them , cheers.
@cyberathlete 2 жыл бұрын
Tharbamar if you're thinking of selling the K11 let me know. I am in the market for a new speaker. Thank you for the update on the R11
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
Please contact me via email, thanks
@cyberathlete 2 жыл бұрын
@@Tharbamar done. thank you
@kaichiehchang2289 2 жыл бұрын
omg you are so right abt the lack of music essence. I’ve owned the R3 and I feel exactly the same way. I connect my digital piano to the speaker and it just sounds slow compare to say b&w 706
@martifilipponi1024 Жыл бұрын
Don't even attempt to compare r11 with the r3
@georgekalcheim3651 2 жыл бұрын
I believe your problem may be as much with your amplifier as with your speakers. For spaciousness have you heard of Vienna acoustics, my Beethoven concert grands do spaciousness orchestral space and size very well. Otherwise they have many of the same qualities the cuffs have.
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
It’s only R11 sound signature, I’ve had many types of speakers paired with same amplifier, if the problem lies with amplifier why would cheap JBL Studio 530 or Polk Reserve R200 sound more spacious than R11 in high frequencies, that is mainly due to the design of the speakers, I had Wharfedale Elysian 2 before R11 which sounded more spacious but less dynamic sound. Vienna acoustics is great but a little too polite for me because I listen to many different types of music including heavy metal and modern music, they do not work for me, thanks
@georgekalcheim3651 2 жыл бұрын
sounds like you've narrowed things down pretty well. Good luck on your journey. By the way I've always enjoyed your honest thoughtful reviews.
@net_news 2 жыл бұрын
R11 or Elysian you reviewed in the past?
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
neither at all at this moment but if I must it would be R11, thanks
@net_news 2 жыл бұрын
@@Tharbamar thanks bro!
@emirsalihovic4869 9 ай бұрын
Fantastiše
@tomaszszwaek1199 5 ай бұрын
Do you think R11 is better sound-wise from R7?
@Tharbamar 5 ай бұрын
It sound deeper than R7 and more effortless.
@felixhuang5198 2 жыл бұрын
From the measurement, this speaker has no bass. A big drop around 70hz. Is this intentional? Eg placement? I expect floor-standing speaker like this should have much better bass. My b&w 703s2 go flat to around 30hz.
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
Do you measure in your room? Or you’re just talking about B&W measurements.
@CrescendoKeysChannel 11 ай бұрын
I think everybody mentioned uniq is good at wider dispersion and better imaging?
@Tharbamar 11 ай бұрын
All Marketing, It is uniform in dispersion with cohesive sound signature but width is not among the best.
@CrescendoKeysChannel 11 ай бұрын
@@Tharbamar Thanks for your fast reply! I was just about to buy a pair of r11. I used to have a pair of b&w 805s and I liked them for their amazing precise imaging. Later switched to active Dynaudios but the wireless became glitchy over the years. They do sound OK if not great! Need a pair of new speakers. Any suggestions of a good pair of speakers with life like sound? Best wishes!
@Tharbamar 11 ай бұрын
Please don't get me wrong R11 is a very good speaker and I still have them but don't expect them to be head and shoulder above others in the same price point because rest is depending on your preference, Thanks
@DH-og5yr 2 ай бұрын
@@CrescendoKeysChannelrevel. B&w. Q acoustics. Dynaudio concept 20i. Etc
@rizzlervontrappe1515 4 ай бұрын
I can’t believe you need to add sub woofers to speakers like these
@bhaskarsaikia5586 2 жыл бұрын
I thought Elysian 4 was the ultimate one going thru your reviews. Out of the three which one is the best if you have to make a choice between the four; Wharfefdale elysian 4, Wharfedale Evo 4.4, KEF Reference 5 and KEF R11. Please list them serially according to your preference. This is a humble request from me. 🙏
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
At this moment for sound alone (In Order), KEF Reference 5 Wharfedale Elysian 4 (had Elysian 2) KEF R11 Wharfedale Eve 4.4 For the Price to performance (In Order), Wharfedale Eve 4.4 KEF R11 KEF Reference 5 Wharfedale Elysian 4
@bhaskarsaikia5586 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks so much for the prompt reply. Means si much. May God bless you friend.
@bhaskarsaikia5586 2 жыл бұрын
Musically and tonally can the Wharfedale Evo 4.4 beat the rest if you add two REL x9 subwoofers to it. Thats a naughty question I know but still want to hear it from you as you are such an honest reviewer. I hate the idea of subs with stereo as much you do. But I want more attack, speed and slam and zero boominess from speaker. Love the thwaks, thuds, woofs, thumps more than the booms. Currently I have a Cambridge Audio CXA80 paired with Wharfedale diamond 240 floorstanders and I want to be more happy. Do you have any opinion about Cambridge Audio CXA81?
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
@@bhaskarsaikia5586 It will not, if you like more attack and speed Wharfedale may not be the best choice at all, Cambridge is made good amps. I would suggest you to audition the speakers like JBL HDI series or Dali Opticon series speakers.
@bhaskarsaikia5586 2 жыл бұрын
@@Tharbamar thanks so much for your suggestions. Can I email you sometime? If so then where? Only to discuss in length abt Audio systems tho. Thanks
@martifilipponi1024 2 жыл бұрын
I listened to these in Best buy and the bass is phenomenal, really chest pounding. But I thought mids sounded constrained, I thought maybe the speakers weren't broken in because I know that they need a lot of hours on them before they open up. I feel like my q100s are much airier. I have six of them in a 6.1 surround setup and I am dying to upgrade but I have to tell you I really love the sound of these with a 12 in. outlaw sub.. I think your next set of speakers should be a set of focal k2 936s. You will get the air that you're looking for. It may just be my next set of speakers also
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
Bass is chest pounding but lacks the details compared to similarly priced speakers, thanks
@martifilipponi1024 2 жыл бұрын
@@Tharbamar But i remember you loving these when you first got them and me wondering about the mids that i experienced. one thing i did enjoy was the great depth that these speakers poses. i never heard a deep soundstage before like with the R11
@eli_ace_chicano 7 ай бұрын
Whsy amplifier are you using
@Tharbamar 7 ай бұрын
In this video main amplifier is Denon PMA-SX11.
@Pete.across.the.street 2 жыл бұрын
Try tekton moabs. I'd be intested how they compare
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
Maybe I will try them one day, thanks
@zzt231gr 2 жыл бұрын
Hey friend! I can't see any difference in response with subs...Did you accidentally posted a wrong graph?
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
Hi, yes there is the difference in low frequency range, please see the note on the graph, it should clarify, thanks
@CoastalEscapes777 2 жыл бұрын
@@Tharbamar not much of a difference, only very slight.
@CoastalEscapes777 2 жыл бұрын
You in room response chart shows a giant hole (-30db) below 50hz. The sub only boosted 30hz region +5db, still well below your mid band. Speaking of mid band, the top end rolls off sharply at 10K hz. Suggest running your in-room response measurements on all speakers and components going forward, this would be very useful for your viewers and yourself. I get that these match your room and your silver system components however they don't sound as good as they look.
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
@@CoastalEscapes777 Thanks for the advice, I understand your point but I've been there and done all anyone can think of with subwoofers and in-room response measurements. 10K rolled off graph is measured in stereo mode from my listening position 10ft away (if that response is flat I can't listen to any speakers), there is no rolled off in mono measurements please look again because I included notes in there. My whole point is just to filled in where is need when playing music with actual lowest notes not trying get unnatural bass with every song I played because most music don't even have below 40hz range. Thanks for input.
@CoastalEscapes777 2 жыл бұрын
@@Tharbamar Thanks for the reply, I think you are doing a good job e.g. talking, measuring and sound samples are the future. I've been reading Stereophile for decades and use to the way JA performs his measurements. If you're not familiar with his method it worth looking at for your own reference.
@Marco-cz7rb 8 ай бұрын
Did you try the new R11 Meta ?
@Tharbamar 8 ай бұрын
Not R11 Meta, I have R3 Meta.
@armindon5118 Жыл бұрын
Hi, really nice review! It will be interesting with which speakers you compare the R11? What are your reference loudspeakers for this result? Currently I am close to hear Monitor Audio Gold 200, B&W 704 S3.
@klepp19 2 жыл бұрын
Don't you use the Gustard u18 DDC anymore?
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
It’s in the cabinet.
@klepp19 2 жыл бұрын
@@Tharbamar I just got mine. Do I just plug in as compatible with Musician Draco?
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
@@klepp19 Yes it works fine with Draco.
@klepp19 2 жыл бұрын
@@Tharbamar Ok thanks! Did you set up by using mode 2 on U18 and mode 5 on Draco?
@gregjones2472 2 жыл бұрын
I knew they wouldn't cut the mustard for uou
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
They really need to be above 65-70db to become alive and kicking, otherwise they are not exciting to listen, thanks
@shannonwilliams6623 2 жыл бұрын
The crossovers in the speakers are holding you back on what you want I noticed the same thing on mine, the parts in the network are very cheap, I spent the extra money and bought the parts to build new crossovers for them, the new parts and hook up wire changed them tremendously, and brought out the air in between the notes I highly recommend getting with GR research and get the upgraded pats to really bring these speakers to another level, the only downside is the parts are bigger then the original ones, so the crossover will need to be built external, it's a idea for you if you like doing stuff like that, if your interested on pictures or info let me know I'll send you my email.
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you for the offer but I’m not sure if I’m going to keep using them, thank you.
@shannonwilliams6623 2 жыл бұрын
I strongly suggest going DIY then check out Danny Richie diy speaker builds if your looking for a reference speaker then they are a end game if your not satisfied with the kef r11 your going to keep chasing your tail because all speaker manufacturers use cheap parts and cheap drivers, if I change one day I'm not buying a manufacturers speaker brand it's a waist of time and money people like you and I want more in a speaker
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
I built CSS 2TDX a while ago which is more exciting than R11, Teak Veneer, Full Assembly & Upgrades To CSS Audio 2TD-X Tower Speakers kzfaq.info/get/bejne/rMhilsZq1569qXU.html
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
@@johnm3544 CSS 2TDX speakers? oh I still have them because I dearly loved how they sound in my set up and best measured speaker in my room, thanks
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
Yes, I will be keep featuring them in future, Thanks
@mehmetcemalcepeloglu1219 2 жыл бұрын
Both, contemplate the view and enjoy the sound my friend. 🙂
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
Thanks
@audiostory6396 11 ай бұрын
from rew it looks like you cant hear anything under 80hz
@DS-wb2we 2 жыл бұрын
They sound a bit too bright. I could imagine getting fatigued with these. They look very nice
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
They never sound bright in my system.
@richieroo4844 Жыл бұрын
@@Tharbamar Yes , true, as shown your Freq response graph looks the opposite of bright to me , a bit rolled off by the looks of things. I got Kef Model 3 Referece from year 1997 , Yew wood finish, Fantastic.
@sbwlearning1372 Жыл бұрын
I don't get why such a large expensive speaker needs subwoofers.
@martifilipponi1024 Жыл бұрын
These speakers do not need subs I own them along with an outlaw 12-in down firing sub made by hsu.. I can't set my crossover below 40 Hertz but subs do not kick in except for movies. in my opinion the sub take away from the tight base if the cross is set higher. This is the reason why speaker manufacturers went to multiple smaller drivers to keep the base tight, now everyone wants to incorporate 12-in subs which most that I've heard produce a flabby base..
@JamaicaSocial Жыл бұрын
Have to agree these speakers are detailed but very sterile sounding, like your listening in a hospital... The subs made a difference but they're still boring... The Aperions sound so much nicer 😊
@paulk9534 2 ай бұрын
Sir, I fear you are misguided… the speaker can only reproduce the quality that is found from your source equipment. What I mean is if the dac does not represent the digital signal well and the amplifier then enhances that…. It is only this lesser sound that is reproduced by the quality speaker. Source equipment quality must come first and I fear your Denon does not hit the level of Naim or Linn and therefore the sound you hear is the Denon sound reproduced by the KEF to the best it can find.
@Tharbamar 2 ай бұрын
Please lean more before you talk, Sir.
@paulk9534 2 ай бұрын
So you imply I am incorrect? That a speaker by itself can reproduce a musical note that is not captured by the source equipment?… Please explain to me your logic so I can learn from your vast knowledge 😳
@liran547 2 жыл бұрын
your room sounds really muddy, maybe the speakers is too big for this room, the bass is all mixed togather, and the mid range is so blured, maybe you over treated your room with all those acoustic pannels
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
I’m not sure how you listen to but only neutral headphones can hear real sound signature otherwise you are not hearing accurately, Sony MDR-7506 can get pretty close, thanks
@liran547 2 жыл бұрын
@@Tharbamar me using sennieiser HD800S on an $10000 headphone amplifier, and that was my conculsion, do sothing about your room, that sound aint neutral man, too dead
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
Please see the in-room response measurements.
@carlosrm9362 9 ай бұрын
I agree with @liran547, those speakers ain’t breathing in that room.
@kenmcglown6642 Жыл бұрын
You're not saying if it's bad or good????? I thought that was what this review was supposed to be all about.
@kayakuprising5914 Жыл бұрын
I don't think it's fair to criticize a speaker for noti giving you the feel of the resonance or vibration you get from a guitar's body. It's completely different holding a guitar and playing it vs sitting and listening to a speaker. Even those listening to someone playing a guitar won't get the same feeling the person holding the guitar is experiencing.
@Tharbamar Жыл бұрын
Fair or not many speakers can deliver that.
@mpi5850 Жыл бұрын
So the reference series, at 3 times the price sounds better to your ear? Wow, what a surprise. My brother’s BMW also drives much better than my Hyundai, does that also surprise you? In terms of the issues you raised, did you try to pair the speakers with amps or sources known to give that musicality? Once again you demonstrate that you know very little about hi-fi.
@akilghosh Жыл бұрын
If you drive a hyundai you probably can't afford this pal. So lay off the insult and go get yourself a flee market 80s speaker
@pooter4e552 2 жыл бұрын
Great review 👍. See some butt hurt KEF fans here.
@jonsays3762 2 жыл бұрын
So much mid!!!
@xyz1663 2 жыл бұрын
Recording sounds brutal. High pitched echo chamber…like being stuck in a plastic bucket with Celine Dion. Horrid midtones and base. Hope the system isn’t this bad in real life. I don’t want to make u feel bad nor do I question your credibility. Just saying… if you post such a bad recording u may want to listen to it and explain the deltas between what u recorded and real life sound. Absolutely brutal!
@Tharbamar 2 жыл бұрын
Try original music before judging, sound brutal? Probably you are listening with your speakers and you are hearing your room as well That’s is depending on how you listen, only option is to use headphones.
@xyz1663 2 жыл бұрын
@@Tharbamar Listening on Sony MDR7506 and Sony WH1000MX4
@connorduke4619 2 жыл бұрын
Very fair and objective review, for around the same money ATC SCM 40 are a much better buy IMO - legendary mid-dome midrange provides realism and dispersion, low overhung paper bass cones provide realistic and textured bass, dual suspension tweeter provides an airy low distortion treble. (Demo: (starts at 3:30): kzfaq.info/get/bejne/iM5heceEptbahqM.html )
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