Powered speakers show audiophiles are confused


17 of 23 speakers in my studio and home theater systems are internally powered. My studio system is all Genelec and sounds very accurate. I know the best new concert and studio speakers are internally powered there are great technical reasons to design a speaker and an amp synergistically, this concept is much more important to sound quality than the vibration systems we often buy. How can an audiophile justify a vibration system of any sort with this in mind.

donavabdear

Showing 1 response by bassdude

@mglik

"Surprised no mention of ATC.

Some of the best sound I have ever had was with ATC Anniversary 50s...."

 

Absolutely! Perhaps the best sound is provided by ATC speakers - which is why so many studio engineers use them.

And... of course... Legacy Audio speakers are among the very best available!

 

You can’t discount the "synergy" provided by the engineer’s work to match the electronics to the drivers and enclosure - it makes a for superb sounding systems.

 

Though - I would agree with the concern that if you have an issue with the internal electronics (the amps)... it’s going to be a real "pain in the arse" to get them repaired. I recently canceled my order for Legacy Audio Aeris (one of the best sounding speakers available)... because... they weigh so much and are very difficult to move... and... I didn’t want to risk having to service the internal amp(s). On the other hand... if... you’re young and can "bench 300+ lbs" you may be delighted with the Aeris - I would have been!

 

Of course... if you listen to the electronics recommendations of the designer of the speakers... the results can be about as good... as if the designer also designs the electronics. Harbeth’s sound amazing with the amps suggested by the designer (e.g. Hegel, etc.) ... but... they can also sound amazing with selected other amps (e.g. such as the HL5’s with the Finalle Sesto Elemento tube amp - see You Tube video). If you’re up for the search for the right "synergy," then go for it!