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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
toddalin's avatar
toddalin
237 posts
 

Unless you were to match the 590s and 4367s to the same volume, your test is invalid. I doubt that both speakers have the same sensitivity, so one will be at an obvious disadvantage unless you have the means to match their volumes.

sounds_real_audio
1,002 posts
 

small monitor speakers should have superior transient response. Bass drivers usually can not keep up...just a thought...please ignore it if you find it offense. 

tommyuchicago OP
60 posts
 

 

@james633

Everything that comes from the 4367’s horn has snap and more inner texture. The notes are much more separated. The 590s horn is dull and splashy with no life in comparison.

This has been my exact experience listening to my 590s after purchasing and listening to my KLH 3s and 4305Ps over the past year. I thought maybe it was just that I was getting "bored" of the 590s after 4 years of ownership but no, they just don’t deliver that sound as you describe it, and it makes them sound lifeless in comparison (even with those big dynamics and soundstage...)

Thank for your running the test. I’m doing the AB of my KLH 3s and 4305Ps tomorrow. If the 4305Ps get the same result in the same room as the 3s, I’m going with the 4349s. If not, probably leaning Borresen.

tommyuchicago OP
60 posts
 

 

@mtbiker29 thank you for that recommendation -- he's in uptown and I'm west, that's a haul but worth it to hear those brands. I'll try to get up there on a Monday when traffic should be manageable. 

tommyuchicago OP
60 posts
 

 

@yogiboy thank you for your recommendation. I had not heard of ATC until maybe a week ago and saw their models on Music Direct. It's not a crazy drive there after morning rush hour and will make the trip. Thanks again.

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