2. speakers
  3. 164869-18279

A Hidden "Feature" of the Cornwall IV

The Cornwall IV is so sensitive in all respects.  Source, cables, power, time of day, recording, tubes---it is so revealing of changes you make.  I won't say it's scientifically transparent.  Instead, I'd say that it's overtly shows a difference with every change you make.  That can become a game or enjoyable in its own right, and draw you away from the music.

The good news is the Cornwall IVs are clearly a musical speaker.  This translates into most swaps of gear in and out sounding pleasant in their own right.    

Here's the problem:   I can easily sit tight with the Cornwalls and any decent setup of attached kit. But it is so utterly intoxicating to hear so many different things play with the Cornwalls.  

Curiosity killed the cat.  This cat might end up in bankruptcy!

What a wonderful loudspeaker. 
128x128jbhiller
jbhiller's avatar
jbhiller OP
1,361 posts
 
@arcticdeth,  I  have to admit that I used to loath Klipsch and I had not heard enough of them or with quality source and amplification.  

Steve Guttenberg and Steve Huff are both knowledgeable people who love music and the hobby.  They both see the CW IV and Forte III as amazing loudspeakers.   I'm not saying they are the mouthpiece of gospel, but rather they are generally smart audiophiles with fair and decent track records.  

For anyone who thinks Klipsch are shrill, harsh, shouty, overpriced, not competitive with the alleged "state of the art" speakers out there....Check this out: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FXdQ_2oKN98

jbhiller's avatar
jbhiller OP
1,361 posts
 
On room size and positioning--

I was a bit surprised to find that even though I initially thought the CW IV was not fussy on placement, I was dead wrong.  To be clear, they will sound decent with nearly any placement. But if I want them to sound spectacular, careful positioning pays huge dividends.  I'm talking tape measure time!  

In my space, they sound best brought into the room from the back wall about 1-2'.  Then toe in can be adjusted.
gspizzz's avatar
gspizzz
5 posts
 
Absolutely love my Fortes III’s and Primaluna with 2 JL E112 sub combination.  Considered the forte IV, but since I’m in the process now of building dedicate 17x23 listening room addition..... I’m going to wait for the diamond Jubilees being released this summer - I can not convey my level of excitement, this room has been a dream of mine for many years - and always wanted a pair of jubilees.  Sorry to hijack - just wanted to get my product endorsement check too.  
srgarrell
8 posts
 
Dean Wescott makes the best crossovers for Klipsch imho.
The premium ones he built for my La Scalas transformed them.
After I installed them I forgot about driver updates.
jet88
62 posts
 
I rocked KG4.2 speakers for 12 years, built and bought in 1992. Everyone who heard them loved it. Paired with a Mirage 15 sub and an 80s era Marantz it sounded beautiful.

I have Cornwall IV's and a Luxman L509X now, and it's absolutely transcendental.

Like most gear, pairing with the right components can make all the difference. The Cornwall's are no exception.
More to discover