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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

Showing 1 response by audio_guy_uofw

audio_guy_uofw
64 posts
 

Interesting that most the OP's description of transients relate more to midrange and high frequencies, not bass.

"The target effects I use to test transiency are the crash-to-ring transient of a cymbal, fingers going across guitar strings, snare drum tightness.."

Based on this, I suggest it is not a question of bass alignment  (sealed vs ported) but rather the mid and high frequency performance that will provide the desired effect. Certainly the room and speaker placement can introduce reflections that can cause smearing in this frequency range. 

An interesting characteristic of dipole speakers (Magnepan, some electrostatic, open baffle) is that they interact with the room differently. Yes you may need to absorb the rear radiationwith suitable room treatment, however they do not radiate to the sides or the ceiling. I find this can give a clarity to the mids and highs that is very appealing...and the lack of a box can provide a very natural and uncoloured bass. Worth exploring.

I have the Magnepan 1.7i and enjoy them...I think you would find they have a good transient response.

 

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