Good Bookshelf Speakers for a Hearing Loss?


I have a hearing loss where I have less ability to hear high frequency sounds. But my hearing also lacks the normal filtering ability that allows one with good hearing to screen out the harsh or sharp sounds. I find this especially true in jazz. I find many speakers that have precise highs, e.g. B&W 685, too sharp for me after a few minutes of listening. I note on many forums (not Audiogon) that some posters complain about harsh or bright speakers that are really pretty good speakers. While my hifi vocabulary may not be accurate, this perhaps partly explains why some people like speakers that are not precise, defined or neutral and instead like "warm" speakers. So I suppose I am looking for a warm speaker. Any suggestions for new or used bookshelf speakers under $1200? 70% music, 30% HT. Thanks!
lalo23

Showing 1 response by mechans

A friend and very devoted audiophile lost hearing in one ear altogether and is poor in the other. He lives in Europe and has recieved care from specialists who have brought his hearing back to decent levels. During the time when it was real bad he used headphones with dedicated headphone amps. His was less frequency specific.
You might be surprised with modern headphone rigs they are better than good in many cases. I bought an OTL head amp from Singlepower with 6080 output tubes. It is incredible. My headpphones are AKG 701s which are marked down now due to a model change. You may want to try it.
My speaker recommendation echoes others I use Von Schweickerts and they don't cause fatigue if you get the VR2 which is the smallest floorstander. I think the English manufacturers are generally too warm one exception is KEF which may give you definition and warmth. I would think Dyne audio would be good if you can get a pair using their better tweeters. You won't get Esotars for that figure but Esotecs might squeeze in. For that same reason see if you can find the Morel speakers near you, they make great tweeters in the same style.