In my experience, the problem with this type of sound is that while they get your attention during short auditions, the same 'live' sound characteristic might be too much for longer listening sessions. The Klipsch speakers that I have auditioned are really amazing for the first 30 minutes or so, but I always felt that listener fatigue sets in not too long after. |
@jay73,
I felt the same way when I auditioned the new JBL L100 Classic speakers. They had that exciting in your face quality that I really liked and brought me back to my youth when I owned an original pair of the L100 speakers.
So, I bought them and sold my Golden Ear Triton One speakers. Fast forward two months and that in your face sound got very tiresome. I decided to tame the midrange a bit so I tried 2 equalizers, the Schiit Loki and the Bellari EQ570. I kept the Bellari because it had a 60HZ adjustment that helped with the bass and I dropped the 2KHZ control back a couple of DB to tame the forwardness.
I then bought a SVS 2000 Pro sub to flesh out the sound a bit more and am still in the adjustment phase. I also had to buy 3 sets of interconnects to connect the EQ and Sub. If I had to do it over again, I wouldn’t do it as I had a perfectly great pair of speakers already. But, like you, I just had to have those speakers. Think long and hard before you make the plunge. The in your face sound can wear on you very quickly. |
Since you like that sound get Tekton, Double Impact or Moab. You will find at least as much thrilling live dynamics, but not in your face. Instead the sound stage will range from up close to quite deep, depending on the recording. Much more effortless, with zero fatigue factor. The longer you listen the more you will want to listen. This goes both for hour after hour each listening session as well as month after month. They are just as efficient and easy to drive as Klipsch, but sound a whole lot better, much more sophisticated, natural, and resolving. Have your cake and eat it too.
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Tektons I’ve heard sound nothing like the Klipsch Heresy iv. Totally different designs and sound.
If that is the sound you like go for it. Doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks.
A lot of the exiting jump factor has to do with the compression driver used which works much differently than conventional drivers.
The new Heresy has received some very good reviews. Having demoed them I know exactly what you are saying about the sound. Whatever issues they may have had in the past seem to have been resolved through various design refinements.
They are fairy efficient but I read a nominal 4-6 ohm load in tests so not a cakewalk to drive well for best sound. Also the bass is extended and I would expect a somewhat beefier amp than might suffice with earlier Heresy models would be advisable. Any well built SS or many tube amps should do well but probably not the best match for a flea powered SET amp or similar. |
@jay73,
What’s the possibility of an in home audition with the Luxman and Klipsch Herseys for an extended listening assessment? It appears that the current series (IV) of the Heritage line is said to be a noticeable improvement of the previous models. The Luxman SQ-N 150 is consistently well regarded. Seems to be a very good match on paper.
Charles |
Upgrade your entire system asap. |
The Heresys are not fatiguing if paired with the right amplification and volume level is kept in check. At higher SPLs the horns start to overtake the woofers.
However, there is no better speaker for listening at lower levels and still getting substantial dynamics. |
hot chick in mini skirt (or these days, yoga tights) and sassy manner that catches your eye may not be the girl to settle down with, take to meet mom
demo at home makes sense, but being impressed and being able to live with certain type of sound longer term can be quite far apart
not say they are the best, but harbeth’s have often been called ’the speaker for hifi/music hobbyists who have tried em all...’... but they rarely impress in their first impression at demos |
What amp are you currently using? Maybe take your amp to the dealer a d give an extended listen to the Klipsch there. Unless you are intending to purchase both. |
Once you are grabbed by the horn sound, most other designs do seem dull and unremarkable. Klipsch Heritage speakers do not have to ever be fatiguing if you choose your supporting cast properly and are diligent with placement. I have not heard the Heresy IV, but I own the Cornwall IV. It is refined and just tonally “right”. Of course the dynamics are off the chart as expected. But I can listen for hours and enjoy every minute.
But as mentioned above, you really need to try them in your home. Horns aren’t for everyone but you’ll figure out pretty quickly if it’s the sound for you.
Oz |
@jay73,
You’ve got great feedback, especially from @arafiq and @ozzy62. If you can stretch your spend, take a look at Tannoy Eaton’s and possibly audition them at Upscale Audio. |
The Heresy's start to roll-off at 65hz. You will need to add a sub or two! |
They those things need subwoofers for sure. 60z and down is so important to music. |
Thanks for all the great feedback and suggestions!
I have some things now to think about.
The amp that I have right now is a Vincent SV-500 Hybrid Integrated paired to Martin Logan Motion 40's.
As I mentioned before, nothing wrong with what I have and have enjoyed hours of great music but those Heresy's definitely grabbed my attention.
Perhaps I should order them from Crutchfield since they have a 60 Day return hassle free.
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Not seeing the dilemma here...just get the speakers! |
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if you had a revelation, if the hair stood up on your back neck, and arms, you felt goosebumpy all over from what you heard, then I too would say go for it.
If the funds are available and affordable, take a more serious look at that setup, go back for a 2nd listen, and a third, if you still hear and have a “wow factor” I would consider the purchase. Not everyday you get that “feeling” about “listening” to a stereo setup.
Happened to me several times, and that is how, and why I purchased the speakers I have now. From going back ,....being drawn back to them at a stereo shop.
Make sure it’s the sound you want. If so, start saving, or walk in ask to listen again, ask the salesman if he has a sharp pencil, and see what he says about prices when you seem very interested, but are not sure............
good luck.
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@jay73,
I strongly support the idea of getting the speakers via Crutchfield for an in your system audition. The ability to hear them in your listening space is without question the best method. Your amplifier-Herseys-your room all interacting. This is superior to a dealer showroom experience. If possible try to get the beautiful Luxman SQ-N 150 into your home as well.
Charles |
Are there any suggestions on Speakers that are smaller (speakers that maybe put on a stand) that come close to the sound of the Heresy for around the same price or below?
Or perhaps any other speakers in general besides the ones that have already been suggested in this thread.
Thanks |
