Buchardt S400 Mk II vs Sony SSCS 5 in Bass

Were you able to listen to the Special 40’s? I’m not sure how many days are left in your home audition but I certainly wouldn’t eliminate the S40 based on other people’s opinions. For instance, I think the S400 looks rediculous with its grill covers on. Like a wooden traffic light. But that should in no way influence your opinion. Cheapaudioman did a comparison of the S400’s to the Elac Uni-Fi’s and preferred the less expensive Elacs. As much as I love his content, that wouldnt sway me a bit if I was serious about either speaker. My point is the only opinion that matters is your own. Reviews are there to guide you, but once you’ve had a chance to audition a speaker in home, those opinions should carry very little weight.

Totally agreed, @perkadin, and thanks for words of wisdom. I wish I could get both in in the get go and do the in-home side-by-side comparison but I have only a few days left. As you also point out, the S40 sold in the similar price range to S400 is used from individuals who do not usually accept return. I was sort of tired of buying and selling audio stuffs. The area I lived do not have any dealers carrying a good selections of gears for me to shop around. So it is a non-laughing matter (to me) that I heavily count on reviewers’ comments I trust and on-line demo (with good recording) to make initial decision. Sad but true this is really my dilemma.

I like Randy and trust his ears. I have seen that clip before. S400 wins the bass category in its clarity but lose to the competitors in treble / midrange. But I agree those are not night and day disparities. They are all great speakers. I guess his conclusion in favor of Elac is primarily value proposition. The other reviewer I also like provides an unique measurement related to the soundstage of UBR which I recalled quite impressive. I actually intended to procure UBR62 at the same time (w/ Burchardt) but ceased the idea because a kinda silly reason, i.e., I have auditioned alot Elac in the past and mentally a bit worn out for another one even it is higher end.

Lanx0003,

Best of luck to you on your journey, you sound like a very thoughtful audiophile. Take care

Thank you for the good wishes.  I will also try drum dampener silicone pads.  I had tried the spring but found the bass was softened a bit.

I've definitely been in your position, finding specific gear to audition can be difficult to impossible, even in the U.S.  Hi-end audio isn't a common hobby, and more companies are going direct and the dealership network is shrinking.  When legendary dealers like Lyric Hi-Fi close you know its the end of an era. 

I bought my tube amp without ever hearing tubes before, let alone that specific amp.  Curiosity got the better of me and I'm so glad it did.  Probably my best leap of faith purchase.  Good luck with the Buchardts, I'm sure they'll work out, its got an 8in passive radiator, so they can move a ton of air.