Best speaker brands for transient response


Hello all, first post / longtime lurker on here. I have really appreciated all I've learned from following threads on here -- much appreciated.

I've had three speakers in my house for a few years, and have learned that transient response is the quality I value most. I'm researching upgrade options and would appreciate recommendations on brands.

Currently I have KLH Model 3s, JBL 4305Ps, and JBL Studio 590s. The sealed KLHs are far superior in transient response / speed / attack. The 4305Ps are pretty good (I'm assuming because they're active) and the 590s, while they do a lot of things well, are relative laggards.

I am assuming that on average a sealed design at any given price point will outperform a ported speaker in this area of performance, but I'm sure there are important exceptions.

I'm also curious if more expensive ported horn speakers (Klipsch heritage line, or the JBL 4349 for example) may deliver equal or better in transient response compared to a lower cost sealed speaker because they're using better drivers, crossovers, etc.

Thank you for any feedback / ideas you have.

tommyuchicago

 

@vthokie83 thank you for your recommendation. They have a very JBL 4349/S3900 look/design to them which is very appealing because those were the models I felt were likely the best option for me at bigger price points.

OP you're going to want to talk to Albert at Precision AV. Pretty sure he's the only Magico dealer in CHI and he has Paradigm also.  Then used he'll have plenty more.  Many on here don't love him because he's quirky to deal with but get in the same room as him and he's great.  Will spend time with you and is worth the visit to the north side.  Good luck.  

My opinion…. Magnepan, Diptyque, for ribbon driver speakers. Sound Labs, Quads, and Martin Logan electrostatic speakers. All extremely revealing and transients that have that “live”  stage presence. But at the cost of needing powerful amplification, and difficult subwoofer integration. Personally, I have Magnepan’s powered by Krell.

You should take a look at ATC. All of them are a sealed design. This dealer is in your neck of the woods. My friend owned the smaller SCM7 and they were real nice!!

https://www.musicdirect.com/shop/?query=atc