The Audeze of speakers


I reached the end game of headphones and I can't get enough: Audeze X driven by a Burson. Its warm and detailed highs, superb mid's and a fantastic low end. My question is what is the equivalent in speakers? I sold off my B&W 805S + integrated Mac. The pairing was excellent, but has its flaws, namely accuracy and soundstage.

If I were to upgrade someday what would be that perfect speaker+amp pairing be? (under 10K).
hellogoodbye

Showing 1 response by james63

Hellogoodbye 

I can probably help you. I own the LCD-X and burson soloist amp. I also own the HD800-S and focal Elex (my current favorite) and have owned too many headphones to list... I have also owned the b&w 703, demoed the 805d etc (heard the 802D3 today too)

it is important to to understand what you like about your lcd-X. My guess it is the bass. Coming from small monitors a true full range system can have a profound effect on the sound. 

Simply put you are going to need subs with any speaker you choose to compete. I do mean any!  The lcd-x bass is down right impressive in the sub bass but it lack the leading edge impact in the mid bass and mid band of my speakers (thiel 2.4) plus two JL E112 subs (12” subs actively crossed over). The speakers just hit harder across the entire range. The lcd-x is very soft sounding from a leading edge impact point of view but the sub bass covers it up a bit with its amazing reach and clarity. 

I will also be in the minority and tell you headphones are as good as speakers, just different. 

I like the lcd-x soooo... the below is just in absolutes not that they are bad...

Now the problem. The lcd-x is super colored tonally. The frequency response is off with a large dip in the upper mids probably due to pad bounce (crazy small room) as most headphones are.

Many high end speakers are the opposite and forward in the mid band. To top it off the timbre on the lcd-x is pretty wrong to my ear with wonky mids and splashy highs. They just sound a little off to me in the midrange, most noticeable on vocals but super fun in their own way. 

As for speakers that is a tough one. I would just by something well respected used and get some good subs. Then EQ. Yep I said it. If you use a computer as a source a little eq (1.5-3 dB) here and there can really help. There are a ton of good eq plug in these days. Most speakers are going to be much flatter, forward and more aggressive then the lcd-x. 

Maybe someone with “musical” speaker experience can chime in as I usually lean toward flat aggressive speakers.