What speaker could safely be ordered without hearing it first?


Hi everyone,

I’m in the midst of my speaker search and curious about something.......as noted above. There are some brands I would be interested in based on reputation, reviews, looks etc but may never be able to hear first.

I’m curious what the collective group thinks would be a safe choice having never heard them first. I know there are variables as in size of room, current gear etc. Just want to see what people would suggest. The one I would note based on what I have read is Joseph Audio. I’d also be curious if people would say the same about Borresen.

So it may be a frivolous exercise but I’ll ask the question anyway. Let me know your thoughts.

128x128mtbiker29

What a great read through all the comments.  I downsized this something from Von Schweikert VR 5SEs to Silverline 20s with subs and then upgraded to Wilson Benesch Discovery ii this week.   I bought my Von Schwiekerts on reviews and found they were great speakers, but not in my small room.  I heard the Silverlines in a small room and was floored at the cost vs sound quality.  I then happened upon the WB Discovery ii and heard them in a big room and took the a chance that they would offer enough bass for my room.  So far so good, I would suggest WB, possibly Endevours, for a full room such as yours.  Happy listening.

Even with a manufacturer with a stellar reputation there is the room size, acoustics and supporting system to match with.

Not easy to do if you have demanding preferences.  

 

Magico S2 or S3 Mk II or later, S5 if available.
I recently replaced a twenty year old pair of (upgraded) Monitor Audio RS-8s with a pair of Magico S5s. Bought second hand sight unseen, with no audition possible without incurring a trip to the other end of the country.

Reproduction and enjoyment are next level, there is no comparison. As expected given the cost.

Finish is superb, mine are sand blast anodized. New model finishes are also amazing, sadly out of my price range.

Your L-509X looks to be well engineered and its intimate, dynamic sound should complement the Magico’s well.

Nice table btw, did you make it?

Isn't that sort of like ordering shoes over the internet? Only much more expensive.

At least if you are able to, get your favorite albums / cd's and audition them in a brick and mortar retail store.

I myself would have the attitude and intention of living with them having an idea of what sound character I'd like to hear.

Hi everyone, so quick update here....I did follow the bits of advice many provided here, specifically around a brand, buying used and also around following a house sound. I do need to write another longer post about the overall search and how my tastes have changed dramatically as I get deeper down the rabbit hole, but that’s a story for another day.

With regard to the final winner.... see my virtual system (side note attaching here is such a pain!). Magico S3 MK1 in bronze.  @protegimus you were rather prescient with your comments yesterday.   

WAF was pretty high compared to the straight black and works well in my room. With regard to sound, well let’s just say the first thing my wife said was "man these image really well compared to before"....SOLD!