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Comparing speakers at home questions

When looking for a new/replacement pair of speakers how do you compare them at home?

I have my current speakers and another pair that I purchased to try out at home in my system. So do you think it’s better to A/B them back to back, like play a song and then switch and play the same song again. Or is it better to listen to one pair for a day, or two, or a week and then switch and listen to those for an extended time? 
I feel like switching between songs gives you an immediate sense of what’s different because you just heard the same song but will listening for longer periods to each speaker allow your ears to adjust to each and give you a better idea of how they will perform long term? Or should I do some of both techniques, quick switches between and longer periods between switching?

mattldm

Showing 1 response by kingsleuy

kingsleuy's avatar
kingsleuy
181 posts
 

I had thoughts about this. A question came to mind. Is the speaker you will be auditioning, Brand New? Some speakers, especially "high end" speakers suck right out of the box. Needing break-in time. Receive, Unbox, Setup and Listen maybe dreadful.

I have a cd compilation of "test" pieces I’ve used for years. Jazz, orchestral, solo vocal, solo piano... I may use vinyl if a thought comes to be, picky.

I can’t do quick A/B test listens. I prefer to set the new speakers exactly where my present speakers are. Needing just a bit of toe in/out, forward/backward. Subwoofer comes later.

A long listen for me. See how much of that or other "something" bugs me. I would not be looking for another speaker if something is not bugging me about my present speakers or system. Continuing down the audio rabbit hole.

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