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 5 responses by mapman

I’ve always found ATC to be a very unique, zippy kind of sound.  Is that transient response?

Well I played that on my setup that is BelCanto c5i to Sonus Faber Concerto Domus.  Veeeery nice!   So there’s one option. 

Just my personal opinion but entire KEF meta line with proper amplification might fit your bill. Just choose the model that fits your budget and good quality gear upstream to match.

Another suggestion would be to just try adding room correction to your setup. I find most any good quality speaker these days does very well once you remove the  artifacts of room acoustics that often tend to muddy the waters.

If you want dynamic drivers and looking to take it to a higher level, consider designs that leverage field coils, like some Classic Audio Design models.