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Good Bookshelf Speakers for a Hearing Loss?

I have a hearing loss where I have less ability to hear high frequency sounds. But my hearing also lacks the normal filtering ability that allows one with good hearing to screen out the harsh or sharp sounds. I find this especially true in jazz. I find many speakers that have precise highs, e.g. B&W 685, too sharp for me after a few minutes of listening. I note on many forums (not Audiogon) that some posters complain about harsh or bright speakers that are really pretty good speakers. While my hifi vocabulary may not be accurate, this perhaps partly explains why some people like speakers that are not precise, defined or neutral and instead like "warm" speakers. So I suppose I am looking for a warm speaker. Any suggestions for new or used bookshelf speakers under $1200? 70% music, 30% HT. Thanks!
lalo23
lalo23 OP
5 posts
 
This is ALL very helpful. On the Spendors, will there be any difference between the Classic line (e.g. S 3/5s) and the SA1s regarding the accentuated high frequency sounds?

Any experience or feedback regarding Era Design 4/5 speakers? I believe they have soft dome tweeters.

Also, most of the Quads on Audiogon are active and have amps. Are they compatible and effective when driven from a regular receiver?
swanny76109
382 posts
 
Another vote for von schweikert. Try the vr1. You can get them here for about 500 or so and you will love the smooth and well integrated midrange. Might try something other than denon as it can be a bit bright. Have fun!
baileyje
45 posts
 
I would second the advice to change amp. I've recently moved from an Onkyo to an Arcam and found a noticeable positive difference in the harshness of sound with the same speakers. I seem to get all the detail without the harshness.

John
yogaflame
5 posts
 
Really nice thread. Hope you don't mind me bumping this. It seems that the OP has gone with Quads, but I was wondering if anybody had anything to say about the Era Design 4/5 speakers within this context of intolerance to accentuated high frequencies. According to their measurements I think they're a little rolled off in the high frequencies, but I wonder how laid-back sounding they are?
bmckenney
91 posts
 
I wonder if you might get some satisfying results with room treatment that would make your listening experience more enjoyable. You might be able to tame the highs in your room at certain reflection points. Most people do this I believe for better imaging and that sort of audiophile thing, but the benefit to you with your hearing impairment might actually be magnified. I'd consult with some of the room acoustic companies such as Real Traps, ASC, GIK Acoustics. Depending on your room, a $1000 might be all it takes.
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