What is better than Bose but costs less?


Hello,

I was told that Bose isn't the best, and that there are better products out there which cost less, could you tell me some of these?

I am quite confused and frustrated, as I can't find anything, i've been doing research and haven't found anything so far, except for little hints that Klipsch and Tivoli are good.

In terms of loudspeakers, and computer speakers.

But more specifically, how would Klipsch and Tivoli systems compare to Bose systems?

Please give me the most detailed answer that you can.

Thank you.
paretovex3abe

Showing 1 response by jimmdavis

You seem to be asking two questions...

1. Computer speakers:
If you're looking for really good sound from a computer, the weak link is typically the internal soundcard (even the "high-end" feature-laden soundblasters). You'd have to spend at least a few hundred dollars to get a decent external USB DAC, and get the conversion out of the noisy computer box. But if you're like me, and just use computer speakers for watching plot-driven movies in 2-channel, and for pre-listening to mp3's before buying the actual CD, you should just go to a used computer store and buy several pair of older computer speakers. People always get rid of the older ones that were way better-made (and often better-sounding) because their new computer came with the cooler-looking black and silver speakers. I have a shelf full of heavy-ass white computer speakers that cost $5-10/pair, and sound fuller, tighter, and less boomy than most of what's at Best Buy today. Finally, if you really want new computer speakers, I suggest Klipsch Promedia Ultra 2.0, which is about the only new consumer-oriented computer speaker I've found that sounds acceptable for music.

2. Loudspeakers
If you think that last paragraph was long, most of us could write infinitely about loudspeakers-in-general. What amp and source components are you using? In what sort of environment are you listening? Etc., etc... I'm guessing that you have a fairly typical Japanese solid-state receiver? I suggest looking here on Audiogon for some used NHT, B&W, or Paradigm in your price range. Any of these would please you now, and grow with you later as you upgrade other components.