the big one: how do you choose speakers? By what features, data?


I am curious how the experts choose speakers when upgrading? What are the priorities, what would make you stretch your budget?

Based on e.g....

  • brand/company’s reputation
  • price
  • sensitivity
  • crossover frequency
  • compatibility with existing amp, etc.?

I don’t have buyer’s remorse for my last pair but I sure made some stupid choices until I got there, that I could have avoided if I had known about this forum sooner.

 

grislybutter

@w123ale @thyname 

Understood. It's fun. It's just that there are 70+ hifi speaker companies to choose from, price narrows it down to about 40, looks to another 20 and then I have to find a way to filter it further as to which ones I listen to. 

@grislybutter : I understand. You just take the leap of faith for the first pair. And you go from there. Gradually. I have had 9 (nine) pairs of speakers over the past 20 years since seriously in the hobby. And I can’t really say my current speakers are my last. I sincerely cannot possibly know. With a few misses, everything so far has been a worthwhile journey. The key is to enjoy the hobby. Not be a chore. And time, interest, exploration, exposure, and of course, discretionary income 🤷‍♂️

I’d add that larger speakers have been my preference as they throw a bigger sound stage and are more likely to disappear.

yes, I know there is no cure. My next speakers will be the ones I will upgrade from. It sure will determine the direction. And I also noticed that size matters. 

 

I was in the same boat last year. I saved a few grand and splurged. Don't be hasty with your buying decisions. Reviewers only exist to sell you on new product which is priced at full MSRP. In hindsight the older models on clearance aren't much different. This narrows down your choice by a lot.