Would you buy speakers with out first listening ?

tough call...

you can get a general impression by here and audio review...but will have no idea how they will interact with you room and gear...

I have been disappointed, updating from B&W 802, series III to B&W N804. It has taught me never to buy speakers that I do not hear first. It was my third set of B&Ws so I didn't think it would be a problem.

Room issues and associated components make such a difference to getting the best fit. How will you know if you are getting the speaker that brings all this synergy together. I replaced the N804 last year with ATC 20-2s. I demoed over 10 speakers, and was also able to hear the finalist in my home.

In comparison with other components, it was a time consumming and difficult experience. I did, however, learn a lot in the process of what I really wanted as well as know I that I didn't compromise. This method takes a lot more time & costs more money (no used deals). To me it was fair price to make sure I got he sound I wanted.

I was just reflecting on my post about buying speakers unheard. I should add that I am much more reluctant to purchase source components on line unheard, and when I purchase a speaker I have no expectations of it being a perfect match to my amp. Perhaps thats why I haven't been disappointed.

In my case, I've only bought one set of speakers from the internet and they were bought without hearing them first. Did a lot of reading and then took the plunge and very glad I did.

Boss302

I bought my Magnepan MG12's unheard.
I did a lot of reasearch before buying them.
I had also listened to a pair of 1.5's before, so I knew what their house sound was.