Sound quality of Newer versus Older speakers


From a sound quality perspective, is there anything that newer speakers are doing better than older speakers. For reference, I have a pair of Monitor Audio Silver 300s which are amazing me with their ability to balance detail retrieval with an ability to avoid harshness (with the right ancillaries). My subjective perception is that this type of balance between resolution and refinement was more difficult to find in speakers from 20-30 years ago.
calvinandhobbes

Showing 1 response by mastering92

20 years ago (or even 10 years ago) many people wanted a Hi-Fi system in their homes. People back then were more discerning and picky about audio equipment. For this reason, separates systems with amps, CD players, tuners and even cassette players were the norm. 

in the late 1990s and early 2000s, that norm started to change. Audio as an industry became synonymous with convenience. iPods and other mp3 players started to take over. Some manufacturers of Hi-Fi gear shifted their focus based on market research. Some stayed the course as well,  but if you wanted better audio quality there would a price to pay.

The same is true today. Vintage speakers can provide better overall sound quality vs. basic speakers today because they were originally made for a completely different audience. Not all, look for flagship speakers.