What speaker could safely be ordered without hearing it first?


Hi everyone,

I’m in the midst of my speaker search and curious about something.......as noted above. There are some brands I would be interested in based on reputation, reviews, looks etc but may never be able to hear first.

I’m curious what the collective group thinks would be a safe choice having never heard them first. I know there are variables as in size of room, current gear etc. Just want to see what people would suggest. The one I would note based on what I have read is Joseph Audio. I’d also be curious if people would say the same about Borresen.

So it may be a frivolous exercise but I’ll ask the question anyway. Let me know your thoughts.

128x128mtbiker29

a smart person will never do that, but the mind comes with experience... unfortunately most audiophiles make their purchases based on the opinions of people they don't even know (critics from advertising articles, sellers from electronics forums) .... then disappointment, sale and buying new devices...
after a few years, such people themselves give generous advice to beginners))) - they sell their scrap metal to them and get cursed ...

I have always felt comfortable buying B&W speakers without hearing them and have done so several times but I agree with many above who say don't buy speakers without auditioning them first.

I am not trying to be a shill for Stereophile, but I starting out looking at the Recommended Components for a good start. I bought my ONLY speaker without  listening to them. They were Quad S2, and love them. They are not my primary speaker, but I do, play them on my second system often with a SET amp. Just wonderful sound.So, IMO, anyone can design a expensive speaker that sound good. But, its harder with cheaper alternatives. Just a guide, but I figured the class sections helped me.