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Cannot find perfect sound

I've been listening to supposedly some of the finest speakers that currently exist. These include b&w 800 Series, revel high end, vivid audio, Psi audio and kef blades.

None except the kef blades satisfied my high level standards.

When I play my reference tracks on cheap earbuds I hear timing accuracy that is missing on all the above speakers. Only the kef blades came closest to what I hear from cheap earbuds. 

Explanations please?

I really suspect that none of these high end speakers are accurately reproducing the sound on my CDs despite all the marketing claims about accuracy and high quality sound.

What could there possibly be that my cheap earbuds can do that eludes these super high end speakers?  

I'm not so eager anymore to spend any money until I have a good explanation.

kenjit
mr_hosehead
200 posts
 
So I have a(t least one) question:  How far are you from your speakers?  And are you listening in stereo or something else?

You're comparing your audio system - source & amplification, speakers and room - to an "in your ear" presence.  In many ways that seems to be two totally different worlds (or universes).  One way to address that might be to move your listening position up to be closer and maybe almost between your front/stereo pair.  I'm not saying that will solve the world's problems but for you it might level the playing and listening field and then you can decide which you like more.  And for one last thing - you questioned (or suspected) that none of the high-end speakers were living up to claimed specs.  Do you have readings or similar data on how that gear is performing in your listening environment?  Just askin'...
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2psyop's avatar
2psyop
779 posts
 
1 I think with all the companies in the world who make speakers, you should listen to more.
2 You will not find “perfect” speakers. You may find the ones you like, your favorite with your taste and coloration. So your choice of the word “perfect” is imperfect.
ron1319
57 posts
 
I’m glad bigkids agrees. I have no idea what you mean by timing accuracy. My best guess is that you’re listening to a system that isn’t set up well at all. Are the speakers at least equidistant from the back and side walls and out into the room the distance you are from the back wall when listening? Toed in equally? I feel like the fundamentals of speaker and listener positioning are missing from the system you are listening to.
three_easy_payments's avatar
three_easy_payments
211 posts
 
Perhaps my opinion on a listening experience is completely different than most but I don't think earbuds even approach the acoustical realism of live music like speakers are capable of delivering.  Earbuds immerse you in sound and some may absolutely love that but to me that's not the way you hear music live when it's played on a stage in front of you.  I seek the acoustical realism of a live stage and others want to be immersed 360 degrees.  Neither is the "correct" answer....it's whatever pleases you.
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