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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 3 responses by vthokie83

vthokie83
1,004 posts
 

Tommyuchicago

I would look at Volti speakers, the Razz is certainly in your budget at $5,500 a pair unfinished, or $7,500 in nice veneers.

I have a friend that owns several horn speakers (Forte IVs, La Scala, Volti Razz, and the new Volti Lucera). I find them superior to Klipsch Forte IVs in most every way, and maybe even better than the La Scala.

They are hybrid speakers with a traditional 12" cone bass driver, and horn loaded midrange and tweeter.

My next set of speakers will likely be a pair of Voltis, but the next up in the line which are the Lucera.....though that is possibly out of your price range at $11,500 per pair. The only downside is that Volti do not have a return policy, so you buy them....you own them

vthokie83
1,004 posts
 

Tommyuchicago

If you are in Chicagoland (I'm in Wheaton), you may try a Audio Archon which in Libertyville. He carries some nice brands, DeVore Fidelity, Harbeth, and Audio Note.

The owner Mike Kay is a great guy, a well regarded audiophile, and is well worth a phone call to see what he may carry that fits into your interests. I purchaed my CODA S5.5 from him, and he worked with me on price. His showroom is by appointment only, but he'll set up whatever you are looking at in his listening room.

Holm Audio in Woodridge carries some speaker lines, though I'm not sure what they have in their listening rooms. They are a little chaotic, but their prices are negotiable.

vthokie83
1,004 posts
 

tommyuchicago

Volti is a only a 7.5 drive down to Tennessee from you, you can listen to your hearts delight. Greg seems all too happy to give a factory tour, and set up speakers to listen in his audio room.

I'll be making that drive in April or May of next year to compare the Razz, Lucera, and Rival. If all goes well, I'll be driving a pair home with me.

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