Electronics

What is the opinion of Reddit about the
Wharfedale – Diamond 220 (Black)?

Wharfedale - Diamond 220 (Black)

Check price on Amazon

A total of 115 reviews of this product on Reddit.

iamakasmalls
·
/r/hometheater
1 point

·

24th Jan 2016

Klipsch speakers have a very distinct sound, specifically in the way they reproduce high pitched sounds. Some people love that some people don’t. (Edit: it also appears that these are a budget series of Klipsch, I’ve never heard them so I can’t attest to their quality)

It also depends on your music source whether or not you’ll enjoy them. I am personally a big fan of the Wharfedale Diamond 220 series for their price.

Edit: Just saw you were looking for towers, unfortunately I don’t know what the better budget towers would be.

_Dozier_
·
/r/BudgetAudiophile
3 points

·

28th Jul 2020
sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
2 points

·

16th Jul 2021

Setup guide: Turntable, Phono Preamp, Amp or Receiver, Speakers

For the best value what is a nearby town or zip to search for used options?

Stereo Setup:

Turntable: Pro-ject Debut Carbon EVO $499.

Stereo receiver with a built in phono stage premap: Cambridge Audio AXR85 ~~$399~~ $269.

Speakers:

Or floor standing towers and you don’t need to buy or build speaker stands:

AV Setup if there is also a TV in the room:

Turntable:

  • Fluance RT82 $299 has auto stop and then the new optical sensor speed controlled servo motor for low wow and flutter and speed variation. Pass on the older RT80 and RT81 that lack the new speed sensor. Pass on the RT83 since the cartridge is not any better. Pass on the RT84 and RT85 since for that price you can get the better Pro-ject Debut Carbon EVO.
  • Audio-Technica AT-LPW40WN $299 has the same speed sensor motor as the RT82, adds a basic built in phono stage preamp, but does not have auto stop. There is also the Drop.com VTA Carbon $349 version that just adds VTA adjustment or the thicker plinth LPW50 $399 in black out finish.
  • Crosley C10 $291 is designed by Pro-ject, see the Pro-ject tonearm on it, and is basically an Essential III.

AV Receiver with a built in phono stage preamp: Denon $329 and up.

Start with a pair of speakers from above or:

5x speaker and subwoofer packages:

  • Jamo Studio ~~$1425~~ $499 includes a basic compact 10″ slim subwoofer.
  • Better Klipsch Reference ~~$1545~~ $599 includes a better larger 12″ subwoofer.

Or also for the AV receiver, 3x front speakers and later optionally add any brand side surround speakers and optional subwoofer:

For both options:

Plus OFC Speaker Wire or cheaper Basic CCA then How to Install Speaker Wire and How To Strip Speaker Wire.

More Audio Guides, Speaker Wire, Accessories and Vinyl Care

Aco2504
·
/r/BudgetAudiophile
2 points

·

16th Mar 2021

Downgrade to these if needed:

https://www.amazon.com/Wharfedale-Diamond-220-Black/dp/B00OHIZQ50/

But the ELAC are better, for what it’s worth.

I couldn’t tell you how much better… it’s a value decision.

sharkamino
·
/r/BudgetAudiophile
2 points

·

10th Aug 2020

How to Match Speakers and Amps

More Home Audio and Home Theater Guides and Accessories

Consider a used or new AV Receiver with HDMI switching for the TV.

Speakers on sale:

Towers for a medium to large room and you don’t need to build or buy speaker stands:

DIY: Add around $50 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

  • 5″ C-Note $100.
  • 6″ Dayton Audio BR-1 $195 cabinets are already built and painted. Great bass if not adding a subwoofer.

DIY towers:

sharkamino
·
/r/BudgetAudiophile
2 points

·

8th Aug 2020

AV Receivers $249+.

Audio Guides and Accessories

Stand mount on sale:

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Towers:

DIY stand mount: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

DIY towers: Add around $50 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
2 points

·

4th Aug 2020

For turntable, TV, PS4, Bluetooth, WiFi streaming, get a used or new analog AV receiver $239+ with HDMI switching, optical, and analog inputs. Then you can optionally later add a center speaker for better movie, TV and gaming dialog and side speakers for surround sound.

What is a nearby town or zip to search for used?

New speakers on sale:

Tower floor standing speakers on sale: No need to build or buy speaker stands if you don’t already have any for optimum positioning.

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Home Audio and Home Theater Guides and Accessories and check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
2 points

·

1st Aug 2020

The Insignia NS-SP213 speakers are actually a decent budget speaker. Review of the Insignia NS-SP213, Best Buy did something right.

What are you powering the speakers with?

If you like the Klipsch sound R-51M are ok, however you can get the larger Klipsch R-610F ~~$499~~ $349 pair for not too much more and you don’t need to build or buy speaker stands if you don’t already have some for optimum speaker positioning.

More speaker options:

Towers:

Stand mount:

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

sharkamino
·
/r/BudgetAudiophile
2 points

·

29th Jul 2020

The T15 are basic entry level. The Dali Spektor 2, or the Elac Debut B5.2 are a noticeable step up.

Will you be adding a matching center speaker?

More options:

Tower floor standing speakers on sale, then you don’t need to build or buy speaker stands if you don’t already have some.

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Home Audio and Home Theater Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

sharkamino
·
/r/BudgetAudiophile
2 points

·

24th Jul 2020

A used ANALOG stereo or AV receiver and pair of used passive speakers for your ANALOG turntable. What is a nearby town or zip we can search for you?

If you must get new, YAMAHA R-S202 ~~$149~~ $109.

Passive speakers:

Over budget:

If you must have another set of DIGITAL amp powered speakers for your ANALOG vinly: R1280DBs $139 or R1700BTs $159. Try coupon code “Edifier” for 10% off. New S version adds a subwoofer out jack. The 1700s are designed for you desk so for room listening prop them forward or place them lower than your ears are so they aim at your ears.

Audio Guides and Accessories

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
2 points

·

23rd Jul 2020

Don’t bother streaming analog vinyl over digital Bluetooth. Stick with digital music if you are going to stream over digital Bluetooth. Usually only entry level turntables have Bluetooth built in and it often costs extra over the same turntable without so that negates any savings you think you would get by buying a cheap Bluetooth speaker that may not sound very good anyway. It’s better to get a better turntable than pay extra for Bluetooth. If you really must have Bluetooth for some reason you can add a $35 Bluetooth transmitter to almost any turntable with a built in or external phono stage preamp.

Stereo Receiver: YAMAHA R-S202 ~~$149~~ $109 to power passive speakers.

Speakers on sale:

Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
2 points

·

22nd Jul 2020

New options:

Speaker amplification:

Or if there is also a TV in the room to also use the speakers with for better movie and TV sound.

Tower floor standing speakers on sale:

Stand mount speakers:

DIY:

  • DIY Kit 7″ Amiga MT Tower Speaker Kit x2 $185 each. Add around $50 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.
  • 6″ Dayton Audio BR-1 Speaker Kit Pair $175 cabinets are already built and painted.

Home Audio and Home Theater Guides and Accessories

sharkamino
·
/r/BudgetAudiophile
2 points

·

19th Jul 2020

ELAC are good when on sale for $200, pass on them at full MSRP $300 since there are many other options.

5″ Jamo S 803 ~~$229~~ $126.

5″ JBL Studio 530 ~~$599~~ $419 pair.

5″ Cambridge Audio Minx XL ~~$299~~ $199.

5″ Wharfedale Diamond 220 ~~$279~~ $199.

6″ Wharfedale Diamond 225 $~~449~~ $299.

6″ Canton Chrono 502.2 ~~$949~~ $299.

Ascend $298 pair : Neutral sound with a linear frequency response and a great mid range that many speakers in the price range lack. Internet direct, no middlemen or resellers so compare to $500 retail speakers. My speakers of choice for my living room.

  • 6″ CBM-170SE. I have them in my living room.
  • Compact Dual 4″ HTM-200 Only 6″ deep. I have them on my desk.

DIY Kit 5″ C-Note $100. Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much. 6″ Dayton Audio BR-1 Speaker Kit Pair $175 cabinets are already built and painted.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
2 points

·

12th Jul 2020

Stylus upgrade does not need a cartridge alignment since your cartridge is already aligned at the factory.

What is your speaker and receiver budget?

What is a nearby town or zip I can search used? Reply or PM.

Stereo Receiver: Pioneer SX10AE $129.

Towers: No need to build or buy speaker stands.

Stand mount speakers:

If there is also a TV in the room to also use the speakers with for better movie and TV sound:

Home Audio and Home Theater Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

17th Nov 2021

Turntable: Pro-ject Debut Carbon EVO $599.

Speaker amplification with a built in phono stage preamp:

Or if there is also a TV in the room an AV receiver with 4K HDMI starting at $329 with a built in phono stage preamp.

Passive speakers on sale:

Or floor standing towers and you don’t need to buy or build speaker stands:

Or a 5 speaker package for an AV receiver:

Plus OFC Speaker Wire or lower cost CCA then How to Install Speaker Wire and How To Strip Speaker Wire.

Setup guide: Turntable, Phono Preamp, Amp or Receiver, Speakers

Audio Guides, Speaker Placement, Accessories and Vinyl Care

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

13th Nov 2021

What is a Craigslist or nearby zip code to search for used speaker options?

Passive speakers on sale:

Or floor standing towers and you don’t need to buy or build speaker stands:

sharkamino
·
/r/turntable
1 point

·

12th Nov 2021

Yes on the AXA35 + Wharfedale Diamond 225!

Or if there is also a TV in the room an AV receiver with 4K HDMI, starting at $229, or $329 with a built in phono stage preamp.

If you want Klipsch Reference Premiere, then Premiere on sale:

Sale list https://www.reddit.com/r/BudgetAudiophile/comments/qkc8u1/black_friday_sales_master_list_a_smackdaddies/

Including:

Or floor standing towers and you don’t need to buy or build speaker stands:

Audio Guides, Speaker Wire, Speaker Stands and Placement, Accessories and Vinyl Care

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

6th Nov 2021

Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO

Plus separates for more options and later flexibility to upgrade one part at a time:

Stereo Receiver: Cambridge Audio AXR85 ~~$399~~ $269 with a good built in phono stage preamp.

Or if there is also a TV in the room an AV Recevier $329 with 4K HDMI and a basic built in phono stage preamp. Then you can later optionally add more speakers for movie and TV surround sound.

Passive speakers:

Floor standing tower speakers, then you don’t need to buy speaker stands:

Or a 5 speaker package for an AV receiver:

Audio Guides, Speaker Wire, Speaker Stands and Placement, Accessories and Vinyl Care

sharkamino
·
/r/turntables
1 point

·

3rd Nov 2021

Which model Bose speakers? If they are entry level then upgrade your speakers first for the most upgrade in sound quailty since the speakers are the sound quailty bottleneck, not the speakers.

What is a Craigslist or nearby zip code to search for used options?

New stand mount speakers on sale:

Or floor standing towers and you don’t need to buy or build speaker stands:

Before a turntable upgrade you could upgrade from the conical stylus on the AT-LP60X to the CFN3600LE $39 elliptical tip stylus.

Turntable after the speakers:

  • Fluance RT82 $299 has auto stop and then the new optical sensor speed controlled servo motor for low wow and flutter and speed variation. Pass on the older RT80 and RT81 that lack the new speed sensor. Pass on the RT83 since the cartridge is not any better.
  • Audio Technica Drop.com VTA Carbon $349 has the same speed sensor motor as the RT82, adds a basic built in phono stage preamp, but does not have auto stop.
  • Crosley C10 $291 is designed by Pro-ject, see the Pro-ject tonearm on it, and is basically an Essential III for lower cost.
  • Pro-ject Debut Carbon EVO $599.

Audio Guides, Speaker Stands and Placement, Accessories and Vinyl Care

sharkamino
·
/r/turntables
1 point

·

2nd Nov 2021

Stand mount speakers:

Or floor standing towers and you don’t need to buy or build speaker stands:

Or a 5 speaker package for an AV receiver:

sharkamino
·
/r/turntable
1 point

·

23rd Oct 2021

$1700 budget?

RT85 > stereo or AV receiver or integrated amp with a built in phono stage preamp > passive speakers.

Or for that high of a budget consider the Pro-ject Debut Carbon EVO $599. You can always upgrade the stylus, cartrdige or platter on the EVO, you can’t later upgrade the tonearm on the RT85.

Or go up to a Rega Planar 3, Pro-ject Debut PRO or a made in the USA VPI Cliffwood.

The DS2 is way over balanced in your budget by 3x the cost and is overkill for the powered speakers with the basic built in digitally controlled D amp. Get a better separate external fully analog class A/B integrated amp or receiver and a good number of them have a good built in phono stage preamp to start with. You can upgrade to a better external phono stage preamp later if and when the rest of your setup is up to the quailty of the external phono stage preamp.

For the best value what is a Craigslist or nearby zip code or town to search for used options?

New receiver or integrated amp with a good built in phono stage preamp to start out with:

Passive speakers:

Stand mount speakers on sale:

Or floor standing towers, then you don’t need to buy speaker stands:

Or a 5 speaker package for an AV receiver:

Plus OFC Speaker Wire or lower cost CCA then How to Install Speaker Wire and How To Strip Speaker Wire.

If you want to later upgrade to a tube phono preamp and already have a good quailty setup then https://hagerman-audio-labs.myshopify.com/products/cornet3.

Setup guide: Turntable, Phono Preamp, Amp or Receiver, Speakers

Audio Guides, Speaker Wire, Speaker Stands and Placement, Accessories and Vinyl Care

sharkamino
·
/r/BudgetAudiophile
1 point

·

22nd Oct 2021

5.25″ Wharfedale Diamond 220 ~~$349~~ $199 or Amazon.

5.25″ Infinity Reference R152 ~~$349~~ $199. Large cabinets.

5.25″ Klipsch RP-150M ~~$479~~ $229.

6″ Canton GLE 420.2 ~~$599~~ $249.

6″ Jamo_Concert_9_Series_C_93_II ~~$575~~ $249.

6.5″ ELAC Debut B6.2 $259.

6.5″ Ascend CBM-170 SE $349 so B-stock on sale $288 pair and you can’t tell the difference. My speakers of choice. Neutral sound with a linear frequency response and a great mid range that many speakers in the price range lack. Manufacturer direct value, compare to retail speakers costing $500.

6.5″ Wharfedale Diamond 225 ~~$449~~ $299.

5.25″ KEF Q150 ~~$599~~ $349.

6.5″ Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-160M ~~$549~~ $375.

6″ Canton Chrono 502.2 ~~$949~~ $399.

5.25″ JBL 530 ~~$599~~ $419.

Or what is a Craigslist or nearby zip code or town to may as well check out used options?

sharkamino
·
/r/turntables
1 point

·

19th Oct 2021

First thing to upgrade would be the speakers since the Edifiers are the sound quailty bottleneck, not the phono stage preamp in the turntable.

Receiver:

  • Yamaha R-S202 ~~$149~~ $129.
  • Or a step up Cambridge Audio AXR85 ~~$399~~ $269.
  • Or if there also a TV in the room then consider an AV receiver with 4K HDMI switching starting at $229. Then you can optionally add more speakers for TV surround sound.

Plus a pair of passive speakers:

Or floor standing towers, then you don’t need to buy speaker stands:

Or a 5 speaker package for the AV receiver:

Audio Guides, Speaker Stands and Placement, Accessories and Vinyl Care

sharkamino
·
/r/turntable
1 point

·

19th Oct 2021

Stand mount speakers may be more than sufficient for an office setup.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

18th Oct 2021

For the best value what is a Craigslist or nearby zip code to search for used options?

Setup guide: Turntable, Phono Preamp, Amp or Receiver, Speakers

Speaker amplification:

Passive speakers:

Or floor standing towers, then you don’t need to buy speaker stands:

Plus OFC Speaker Wire or lower cost CCA then How to Install Speaker Wire and How To Strip Speaker Wire.

Audio Guides, Speaker Wire, Speaker Stands and Placement, Accessories and Vinyl Care

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

16th Oct 2021

Alternative to the bright 5.25″ Klipsch RP-150 are the warm 5.25″ Wharfedale Diamond 220 ~~$349~~ $199 or Amazon.

price-spider-bot
·
/r/testingground4bots
1 point

·

13th Oct 2021
ItemCurrentLowestReviews
Wharfedale – Diamond 220 (Black)$199.00$199.004.3/5.0
Wharfedale – Diamond 225 (Black)$299.00$299.004.4/5.0
High Low Level Impedance Adaptor – Car Audio Syst…––4.1/5.0

 

^Item Info | Bot Info | Trigger

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

13th Oct 2021

Upgrade the speakers first for the most improvement in sound quailty then add a subwoofer. Then optionally a stylus upgrade.

For the best value what is a Craigslist or nearby zip code to search for used speaker and subwoofer options?

New speakers, best deal:

More options:

Or floor standing towers and you don’t need to buy or build speaker stands:

Subwoofer:

If the subwoofer does not have speaker wire input for the vintage receiver then connect a speaker level to line level converter which is basically what is inside a subwoofer with speaker wire inputs.

Stylus upgrade:

Was the receiver just repaired to working condition or were the capacitors recapped to get it to sound as good as new?

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

13th Oct 2021

BF CM is usually consumer grade electronics, soundbars, TVs, Bluetooth speakers.

For beginner audiophile level I don’t think you will find any better deals than all the speakers I have listed that are already 30 to 70% off.

BF CM probably won’t beat these deals at less than half MSRP over 50% off.

Or maybe 6.5″ ELAC Debut B6.2 $288 will be under $200 again during the holidays.

Or the popular 5.25″ KEF Q150 $599 MSRP may be $300 again around the holidays. They are currently $349.

However the Klipsch R-41 at $119 are fine to start with for a small room.

You could put any budget you have later into a small subwoofer.

sharkamino
·
/r/turntables
1 point

·

21st Sep 2021

Wharfedale speakers:

Stereo Receiver: Yamaha R-S202 ~~$149~~ $119 since OP has a phono stage preamp in the turntable and doesnt need the one in the Sony.

sharkamino
·
/r/turntables
1 point

·

21st Sep 2021

Stereo Receiver: Yamaha R-S202 ~~$149~~ $119.

Or if there is also a TV in the room an AV receiver with 4K HDMI starting at $239. Then you can optionally now or later add more than 2 speakers for movie and TV surround sound.

Speakers:

Or floor standing towers and you don’t need to buy or build speaker stands:

Or optional 5.1 speaker package for the AV receiver: Jamo Pair S 809 + S 83 Center + Pair S 803 + S 810 SUB ~~$1,786~~ $499 .

Plus OFC speaker wire or lower cost CCA then How to Install Speaker Wire and How To Strip Speaker Wire.

Setup guide: Turntable, Phono Preamp, Amp or Receiver, Speakers

Audio Guides, Speaker Stands and Placement, Accessories and Vinyl Care

sharkamino
·
/r/turntables
1 point

·

11th Sep 2021

Bluetooth is optional built into or connected to the speaker amplification, not passive speakers.

For the best value what is a Craigslist or nearby zip code to search for used options?

New stereo receiver:

Or integrated amp:

Or an AV receiver with 4K HDMI if there is also a TV in the room and you can optionally add more than 2 speakers for movie and TV surround sound.

New speakers:

Or floor standing towers and you don’t need to buy or build speaker stands:

Or optional 5.1 speaker package for the AV receiver: Jamo Pair S 809 + S 83 Center + Pair S 803 + S 810 SUB ~~$1,146~~ $449 .

Then add an SVS, Rythmik or HSU subwoofer next.

Setup guide: Turntable, Phono Preamp, Amp or Receiver, Speakers

Audio Guides, Speaker Wire, Accessories and Vinyl Care

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

10th Sep 2021
sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

10th Sep 2021

Are you also using a TV with the AV receiver?

First, $100 for the Fluance RT82 or $0 to $100 for the vintage turntable plus $50 to $100 for a phono stage preamp.

Then that leaves you with $300 to $450 for speakers.

For the best value what is a Craigslist or nearby zip code to search for used turntable and speaker options?

New speakers on sale: Hard to say how much of an upgrade since I don’t know how the 5.25″ RSF speakers sound or what they compare to.

Or floor standing towers and you don’t need to buy or build speaker stands if you don’t already have any:

sharkamino
·
/r/turntables
1 point

·

10th Sep 2021

For less cost than the NAD, Cambridge Audio AXR85 ~~$399~~ $269.

More speaker options:

Consider saving up for a better subwoofer to add later instead of getting the Dayton now.

sharkamino
·
/r/turntables
1 point

·

4th Sep 2021

What is a Craigslist or nearby zip code to search for used options?

New on sale:

Setup guide: Turntable, Phono Preamp, Amp or Receiver, Speakers

Audio Guides, Speaker Wire, Placement, Stands, Accessories and Vinyl Care

sharkamino
·
/r/turntables
1 point

·

1st Sep 2021

To your PSX5, no turntable?

AV receiver with 4K HDMi, starting at $229.

Speaker deals:

Or floor standing towers and then you don’t need to buy or build speaker stands:

Or a 5.1 speaker package: Jamo Pair S 809 + S 83 Center + Pair S 803 + S 810 SUB ~~$1,146~~ $449 .

Plus OFC Speaker Wire or cheaper Basic CCA then How to Install Speaker Wire and How To Strip Speaker Wire.

Or what is a Craigslist or nearby zip code to search for used options?

Audio Guides, Speaker Wire, Accessories and Vinyl Care

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

24th Aug 2021

Stand mount speakers: Bookshelf is a misnomer, they are designed to go on stands.

Or floor standing towers and you don’t need to buy or build speaker stands:

Which model vintage Pioneer receiver? If it has not been serviced this century consider a service and a capacitor recap since they can dry out over many years and sound dull.

Setup guide: Turntable, Phono Preamp, Amp or Receiver, Speakers

Audio Guides, Speaker Wire, Accessories and Vinyl Care

sharkamino
·
/r/turntable
1 point

·

24th Aug 2021

Upgrade your speakers that are probably the sound quality bottleneck:

Or floor standing towers and you don’t need to buy or build speaker stands:

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

19th Aug 2021

Buy the turntable for the turntable and tonearm not the cartridge. You can later put on a different stylus or cartridge on the EVO, you can’t later upgrade the tonearm on the RT85.

The Sumiko Rainer on the EVO is plenty good to start with. When it wears out and it’s time to replace it there are 2 stylus upgrade options that are easy to install.

Or change the cartridge to the Nagaoka MP-110 that costs less and many prefer better than the 2M Blue, install and then do a cartridge alignment.

Auto stop is a convenient feature however leaving the stylus running in the run out groove for minutes to an hour on the EVO won’t hurt anything. Even 10 hours may only reduce stylus life by 2%. You should be able to use the Q-Up tonearm lifter with the EVO if you really need it.

The EVO is available in Walnut wood finish.

Supposedly Wharfedale Diamonds are preferred in some reviews over Triangle.

More options:

Or floor standing towers and then you don’t need to buy or build speaker stands:

Power the speakers with a stereo receiver or integrated amp with a good built in phono stage preamp to start with:

Or if there is also a TV in the room an AV receiver with 4K HDMi switching starting at $329 with a basic built in phono stage preamp.

Optional 5x speakers for the AV receiver:

Plus OFC Speaker Wire or cheaper Basic CCA then How to Install Speaker Wire and How To Strip Speaker Wire.

Setup guide: Turntable, Phono Preamp, Amp or Receiver, Speakers

Audio Guides, Speaker Wire, Accessories and Vinyl Care

sharkamino
·
/r/turntables
1 point

·

17th Aug 2021

Upgrade the speakers, phono stage preamp, and the receiver before upgrading the stylus or cartrdige.

The receiver looks entry level and probably sounds dull after 30+ years and probably not worth recapping the capacitors.

A receiver or integrated amp upgrade may already have a better than Pyle phono stage preamp built in.

Cambridge Audo AXR85 ~~$399~~ $269 has a good built in phono stage preamp.

Speaker upgrades:

Or floor standing towers and then you don’t need to buy or build speaker stands:

Audio Guides, Speaker Wire, Accessories and Vinyl Care

sharkamino
·
/r/BudgetAudiophile
1 point

·

17th Aug 2021

If you don’t plan on adding side surround speakers then do you really need an AV receiver for the center speaker for movies and TV?

You can also connect a stereo receiver or integrated amp to a TV too however no HDMI switching, though that can be done in the TV or an HDMI switcher.

Or these stereo receivers have HDMI switching.

R152 are not on sale any more. The tower version are on sale, Infinity Reference R253 ~~$399~~ $149 each, buy 2 for a pair. Then you don’t need to buy speaker stands.

Or stand mount speaker deals:

Or 3x Ascend speakers on sale. I have these in my living room. Or a pair. See details on the product page.

sharkamino
·
/r/turntables
1 point

·

12th Aug 2021

For $500 you can get an analog Yamaha R-S202 stereo receiver and the next step up in size and quailty Klipsch speakers Reference Premiere RP-160M.

Or other speakers for less cost:

Or floor standing towers and you don’t need to buy or build speaker stands:

Plus OFC Speaker Wire or cheaper Basic CCA then How to Install Speaker Wire and How To Strip Speaker Wire.

Setup guide: Turntable, Phono Preamp, Amp or Receiver, Speakers

Audio Guides, Speaker Wire, Accessories and Vinyl Care

sharkamino
·
/r/turntables
1 point

·

10th Aug 2021

For the best value what is a nearby Craigslist area or zip code to search for used options?

A good receiver up to the level of the EVO is the Cambridge Audio AXR85 ~~$399~~ $269. Mani into one of the Aux inputs or the turntable directly into the phono input, use which ever one sounds better or the Mani if the turntable needs to be longer than a 3ft RCA cable from the receiver.

If you must go lower budget entry level, Yamaha R-S202 ~~$149~~ $119.

Sounds like you were thinking you purchased Jamo S 801 PM.

How much were the S801? If you like them and have anything larger than a small room consider the larger 5.25″ Jamo S 803 ~~$229~~ $109.

Or consider a larger budget for some better speakers up to the level of the EVO and AXR85.

Or floor standing towers and you don’t need to buy or build speaker stands:

Plus OFC Speaker Wire or cheaper Basic CCA then How to Install Speaker Wire and How To Strip Speaker Wire.

Setup guide: Turntable, Phono Preamp, Amp or Receiver, Speakers

Audio Guides, Speaker Wire, Accessories and Vinyl Care

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

5th Aug 2021

Setup guide: Turntable, Phono Preamp, Amp or Receiver, Speakers

For the best value what is a nearby Craigslist area or nearby zip code to search for used amp and speaker options?

New options to power passive speakers:

Q Acoustics are rather pricey outside of the UK imported into the USA compared to other options available here.

Or floor standing towers and then you don’t need to buy or build speaker stands:

Plus OFC Speaker Wire or cheaper Basic CCA then How to Install Speaker Wire and How To Strip Speaker Wire. Or speaker wire sets, see in the guide below.

Audio Guides, Speaker Wire, Accessories and Vinyl Care

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

24th Jul 2021

What is a nearby Craigslist area or zip code to search for used speaker upgrade options?

New speaker deals:

Or floor standing towers and you don’t need to buy or build speaker stands:

Speaker Placement: How to position your speakers for great sound and Stereo Music Listening.

Bookshelf (misnomer) speaker stands: Dayton Audio SSMB24 or Monoprice Glass. Sturdy Monolith by Monoprice Speaker Stands or Monoprice Cherry. DIY Custom Speaker Stands.

Audio Guides, Speaker Wire, Accessories and Vinyl Care

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

6th Jul 2021

What is a nearby town or zip to search for used options?

New speaker deals:

Or floor standing towers and you don’t need to buy or build speaker stands:

polypeptide147
·
/r/BudgetAudiophile
1 point

·

8th Dec 2020

I’ve got a few options for you.

My personal choice would be to build a pair of Overnight Sensations. They’re fantastic speakers with really good bass and rolled off highs. I’ve got them on my desk right now because they’re just marvelous. The downside, however, is that you’ve got to build them.

If you’re not into building them, which is totally understandable, the Wharfedale Diamond 220 or the Diamond 225.

I haven’t personally heard these, but it might be worth skipping the Diamond series and going with the Dentons. From what I’ve read, they’re supposed to be a pretty warm speaker.

Just for fun, Lintons and LS3/5a are pretty much going to be your “endgame” speakers if you like warmth haha. Of course there are better out there but more expensive. These two are moderately reasonable.

If you want to use your speakers and make them warm, you’ll probably be spending a good amount. This Schiit or this Schiit would be good options, but they’re more than new speakers and won’t change the sound as much as you probably want. Amps and preamps do very little.

polypeptide147
·
/r/BudgetAudiophile
1 point

·

3rd Dec 2020

Yeah bookshelf speakers are a better deal.

Bookshelf speakers and their tower counterparts sound basically the same usually. So, those Dayton towers you’re looking at are around $240, but sound like a pair of $70 bookshelf speakers.

That’s why I recommended bookshelf speakers around the $200-300 range. For example, the Wharfedale Diamond 220 at $200. They’re going to give you roughly the same sound as the Diamond 240 towers, which are $600.

polypeptide147
·
/r/BudgetAudiophile
1 point

·

13th Nov 2020

For $200, you’ve got a few options for speakers.

First, the Wharfedale Diamond 220. They’ve got a nice warm sound that does vocals really well.

After that, you’ve got DIY options. You could make a pair of C-Notes or a pair of Overnight Sensations. The C-Notes are relatively neutral, and the OS are warm sounding with a relaxed top end and excellent midrange (one of my favorites).

polypeptide147
·
/r/BudgetAudiophile
1 point

·

13th Nov 2020

Personally, I wouldn’t go with the R-51Ms for a desk. They can be very bright and aggressive if you’re that close to them. Also, the woofer and tweeter need some space to blend together properly, so they’re better if you can sit further away from them.

I’ve never seen the KEFs go on sale for less than $300. That’s really low, and they’re an absolute steal at that price. For a desk, easily better than anything else that you can buy for that price.

DIY speakers are a fantastic way to go. I’ve got C-Notes and I absolutely love them. You mentioned you like the look of the Klipsch. You might really like the Overnight Sensations. I have those and personally I like them more than the C-Notes. The OS have a bit of a warmer presentation, that I personally really like.

I’m not sure if your $200 price range is for everything or just for the speakers, but the Wharfedale Diamond 220s are another fantastic option, and they’re very pretty.

If I were in your situation, the OS would be my first choice. DIY is always the best bang for your buck.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

18th Oct 2020

What is your price on those Boreas?

5″ Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-150M ~~$419~~ $239 may be a better value.

More speakers:

Tower floor standing speakers on sale, no need to build or buy speaker stands.

DIY Speaker Kits: Add around $50 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Internet Direct Speaker Brand Comparison | Audioholics

sharkamino
·
/r/turntables
1 point

·

16th Oct 2020

New speaker deals:

Tower floor standing speakers on sale, no need to build or buy speaker stands.

DIY Speaker Kits: Add around $50 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Internet Direct Speaker Brand Comparison | Audioholics

Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile and their PSA.

sharkamino
·
/r/turntables
1 point

·

16th Oct 2020

Cambridge Audio AXR85

AV Receivers

Speakers:

Tower floor standing speakers on sale:

DIY Speaker Kits: Add around $50 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Setup Guide: Turntable, Phono Preamp, Amp or Receiver, Speakers, or Powered Speakers.

More Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile and their PSA.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

15th Oct 2020

How long have you had the RT81?

Cambridge Audio AXR85 for $269 is very good. I have the previous version SR10 and it sounds great.

Q Acoustics 3020i for $267 are good speakers however there are also other good options on sale for less.

Or a bit more:

  • 5″ ELAC Uni-fi UB5 ~~$599~~ $299. On sale half price since there is a new version out.
  • 5″ Triangle Borea BR02 $329.
  • 6″ Wharfedale Diamond 225 ~~$449~~ $299.
  • 6″ Ascend CBM-170SE $298 + shipping. Neutral sound with a linear frequency response and a great mid range that many speakers in the price range lack. Internet direct, no middlemen or resellers so compare to $500 retail speakers. My speakers of choice in my living room.
  • Large cabinet 5″ JBL Studio 530 ~~$599~~ $419.
  • 6″ FOCAL Chorus 706 ~~$375~~ $219 each.

Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile and their PSA.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

13th Oct 2020

Which model Dayton speakers does he have?

What is powering the Dayton speakers? Are they self powered or what is powering them? Which model stereo or AV receiver or integrated or mini amp?

The Klipsch R-41M are small 4″ mid bass driver speakers for a small room, office or bedroom. For a living room get larger speakers. What size is the room LxWxH?

Spend the upgrade budget on just the speakers. Add the subwoofer later with the next holiday or birthday.

Have you considered used speakers for the best value? What is a nearby town or zip to search?

If you want Klipsch speakers,

More speaker deals:

Tower floor standing speakers on sale:

If he is handy, DIY Speaker Kits: Add around $50 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Setup Guide: Turntable, Phono Preamp, Amp or Receiver, Speakers, or Powered Speakers.

More Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile and their PSA.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

1st Oct 2020

What is your budget?

What is a nearby town or zip to search for used options for the best value?

Speakers on sale:

Towers: No need to build or buy speaker stands.

DIY Speaker Kit: 5″ C-Note $100. Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile and their PSA.

sharkamino
·
/r/turntable
1 point

·

23rd Sep 2020

Get the better Premiere series Klipsch speakers, 5″ Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-150M ~~$419~~ $239.

More speakers on sale:

Towers: No need to build or buy speaker stands.

DIY Speaker Kit: 5″ C-Note $100. Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile and their PSA.

sharkamino
·
/r/turntables
1 point

·

18th Sep 2020

Speakers on sale:

Towers: No need to build or buy speaker stands.

DIY Speakers: 5″ C-Note $100. Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Internet Direct Speaker Brand Comparison | Audioholics

Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile and their PSA.

sharkamino
·
/r/turntable
1 point

·

15th Sep 2020

I recommend trying some modern used or new speakers from this century.

The Advents may or may not be worth having the crossovers serviced and recapped.

What is a nearby town or zip to search for some used options?

Speakers on sale:

DIY Speakers: 5″ C-Note $100. Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Towers: No need to build or buy speaker stands.

Internet Direct Speaker Brand Comparison | Audioholics

Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile and their PSA.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

10th Sep 2020

You’re welcome.

New speakers on sale:

Towers: No need to build or buy speaker stands.

DIY Speakers: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Internet Direct Speaker Brand Comparison | Audioholics

Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile and their PSA.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

5th Sep 2020

New speakers on sale:

DIY Speakers: 5″ C-Note $100. Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Towers: Then you don’t need to build or buy speaker stands.

Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

2nd Sep 2020

Stand mount speakers: Consider if the matching center is available for better home theater dialog.

Towers: Then you don’t need to build or buy speaker stands.

DIY: Add around $50 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

1st Sep 2020

What is your speaker budget?

What is a nearby town or zip to search for used options?

Stand mount speakers:

Towers: Then you don’t need to build or buy speaker stands.

DIY: Add around $50 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Internet Direct Speaker Brand Comparison | Audioholics

sharkamino
·
/r/turntables
1 point

·

30th Aug 2020

For OP, the older RT81 is not worth buying. For $40 more and a $100+ value in feature gains the newer Fluance RT82 ~~$299~~ $290 with $10 off coupon code “TENSAVEV40Q” is a good alternative to the Debut Carbon for $110 less and adds the new optical sensor speed controlled servo motor for much lower wow and flutter and speed variation. The RT82 also has the OM10 cartridge which is a bit better than the newer version 2M Red so pass on the RT83.

Sony STRDH190 $149 is a bit better than the Yamaha and has a built in phono stage preamp with adjustable gain.

Speakers on sale:

Towers: Then you don’t need to build or buy speaker stands.

DIY: Add around $35 to $60 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

FestBubble_throwaway
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

30th Aug 2020
sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

29th Aug 2020

Speakers on sale:

Towers: Then you don’t need to build or buy speaker stands.

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

sharkamino
·
/r/turntables
1 point

·

26th Aug 2020

What is a nearby town or zip to search for used options?

Is there also a TV in the room to also use the speakers with?

Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

Stereo Receiver: Sony STRDH190 with adjustable gain phono stage preamp.

Turntable: Fluance RT82 ~~$299~~ $290 ($10 off coupon code “TENSAVEV40Q” has auto stop and then an optical sensor speed controlled servo motor for low wow and flutter andspeed variation. Solid MDF plinth instead of hollow plastic on the LP120X. Belt drive for motor noise isolation. Pass on the older RT81 that lacks the new speed sensor. Pass on the RT83 since the cartridge is not any better.

Speakers on sale:

Towers: Then you don’t need to build or buy speaker stands.

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

24th Aug 2020

Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

AV Receiver with phono input:

  • Used AV Receiver with HDMI ARC 1.4 will take audio from an HD or 4K TV. ONKYO TX-NR626 $160 (Snohomish) Offer $120.
  • New 4K AV Receivers $299+.

Vintage turntable:

New turntable:

  • Fluance RT82 ~~$299~~ $290 ($10 off coupon code “TENSAVEV40Q” has auto stop and then an optical sensor speed controlled servo motor for low wow and flutter and speed variation. Pass on the older RT81 that along with the RT80 lacks the new speed sensor. Pass on the RT83 since the cartridge is not any better.

3x or 5x used speakers:

Pair of used speakers $100 or offer $100.

Pair over $100:

New Speaker Pairs:

Towers, no need to build or buy speaker stands:

DIY Kit: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

21st Aug 2020

5″ Cambridge Audio Minx XL ~~$299~~ $179. If you have the 9.4″ depth space.

Warm Wharfedale:

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

20th Aug 2020

Infinity Reference 162 are better speakers with a better mid range than the Jamo S 807.

More stand mount speakers on sale:

Towers:

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

20th Aug 2020

Stand mount speakers on sale:

Towers: No need to build or buy speaker stands.

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

19th Aug 2020

Stand mount speakers on sale:

Towers: No need to build or buy speaker stands.

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

17th Aug 2020

If you get just the turntable:

Receiver, Speakes, Subwoofer $20 (FALMOUTH)

Receiver options:

$50 TEAC AG-780 receiver stereoHampstead, NC

$50 Stereo ReceiverCastle Hayne, NC

$135 DENON AVR 1804 AM/FM AV RECEIVER AMPLIFIER 6.1 CHANNELS 120 WATTS / REMOTEWilmington, NC

$100 Sony ES Receiver DA 2400 ESWilmington, NC

$399 Cambridge Audio integrated amplifierOcean Isle Beach, NC

For a small room

$75Onkyo CR-315 Stereo CD ReceiverWilmington, NC

Speakers:

Towers: No need to build or buy speaker stands.

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Home Audio and Home Theater Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

13th Aug 2020

Receiver or integrated amp:

Speakers

Towers: No need to build or buy speaker stands.

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Home Audio and Home Theater Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

sharkamino
·
/r/BudgetAudiophile
1 point

·

13th Aug 2020

What is a nearby town or zip to search for used options?

Is there also a TV in the room to also use the speakers with for better movie and TV sound?

Turntable: RT82 is good.

Receiver or integrated amp:

Speakers

Towers: No need to build or buy speaker stands.

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Home Audio and Home Theater Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

13th Aug 2020

Receiver or integrated amp:

Speakers

Towers: No need to build or buy speaker stands.

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Home Audio and Home Theater Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

11th Aug 2020

Receiver or integrated amp:

Speakers

Towers: No need to build or buy speaker stands.

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

10th Aug 2020

Speakers:

Towers for a medium to large room and you don’t need to build or buy speaker stands:

DIY: Add around $50 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

DIY towers:

sharkamino
·
/r/BudgetAudiophile
1 point

·

10th Aug 2020

Infinity Reference 152 ~~$349~~ $159.

Cambridge Audio Minx XL ~~$299~~ $179

Wharfedale Diamond 220 ~~$279~~ $199.

Canton Chrono 502.2 ~~$949~~ $299.

JBL Studio 530 ~~$599~~ $419.

DEFINITIVE TECHNOLOGY Demand D9 ~~$859~~ $399 pair.

FOCAL Chorus 706 ~~$375~~ $199 each.

DIY: Add around $50 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

9th Aug 2020

Used Klipsch RB-51 II? Pass unless they are a great deal at under $150.

If you like the sound of Klipsch speakers get the better Reference Premiere line that are at or closer to the level of Focal Chorus 706.

Other speaker options:

Towers for a medium to large room and you don’t need to build or buy speaker stands:

DIY: Add around $50 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

DIY towers:

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

9th Aug 2020

Stereo Receiver: Sony STR-DH190 $149 with a built in phono stage preamp with adjustable gain so you don’t need the Art DJ Pre 2.

Pass on the old Fluance SX6. If you want Fluance, the newer better Signature HiFi $175 with the Reveiew25 coupon code.

Better speakers on sale:

Towers:

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

8th Aug 2020

New options or mix and match new and old options.

Stereo receiver: Sony STR-DH190 $149.

New stand mount speakers:

New tower speakers, not need to build or buy speaker stands:

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

7th Aug 2020

Speakers:

What is a nearby town or zip to search for better value used options?

New stand mount speakers on sale:

Tower floor standing speakers on sale: No need to build or buy speaker stands if you don’t already have any for optimum positioning.

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

7th Aug 2020

Speakers first.

Nagaoka MP-110 over the overpriced 2M Blue.

To power the speakers Cambridge Audio AXR100 and it has a $100 value built in phono stage preamp. If there is also a TV in the room to use the speakers with for better movie and TV sound, an AV Receiver.

The acrylic platter is mostly for looks.

Stand mount speakers on sale:

Tower floor standing speakers on sale: No need to build or buy speaker stands if you don’t already have any for optimum positioning.

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

6th Aug 2020

The Infinity are good for a $150 offer. Not necessarily a huge upgrade over your current speakers but should have a noticeable impact improvement.

New options:

DIY: Add around $50 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Stand mount:

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

6th Aug 2020

The Pioneer are good if around the same price or not too much more than the Polks.

Also look for new or used EU brands such as Wharfedale, KEF, Monitor Audio, Q Acoustics, Mission etc.

Pass on the vintage Technics SB-3150 that may only be worth around $100. Check eBay “sold items” for prices they have sold for.

Stand mount speakers on sale:

Tower floor standing speakers on sale: No need to build or buy speaker stands if you don’t already have any for optimum positioning.

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

6th Aug 2020

Entry level stereo receiver to power the speakers:

Better speakers than the Polk T15:

Tower floor standing speakers on sale: No need to build or buy speaker stands if you don’t already have any for optimum positioning.

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

4th Aug 2020

Stereo receiver:

  • Sony STR-DH190 $149. Entry level. $50 value built in phono stage preamp with adjustable gain for when you upgrade your turntable.
  • Cambridge Audio AXR85 ~~$399~~ $269. Good deal and great sound. I have the previous version SR10. $100 value built in phono stage preamp for when you upgrade your turntable.

New speakers on sale:

Tower floor standing speakers on sale: No need to build or buy speaker stands if you don’t already have any for optimum positioning.

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

3rd Aug 2020

Desktop Speaker Placement: Pitch-perfect Placement: How to Set Up Your Desktop Speakers and Get Those Speakers Off Your Desktop.

Speakers on sale:

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Tower floor standing speakers on sale: No need to build or buy speaker stands if you don’t already have any for optimum positioning.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

2nd Aug 2020

Stereo receiver:

Tower floor standing speakers on sale: No need to build or buy speaker stands if you don’t already have any for optimum positioning.

Stand mount speakers on sale:

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

1st Aug 2020

Vintage Turntable:

New turntable:

  • Fluance RT80 ~~$199~~ $175 with $25 off coupon code “Review25”.
  • Fluance RT82 ~~$299~~ $275 with $25 off coupon code “Review25” adds the new optical sensor speed controlled servo motor for low wow and flutter and speed variation. Pass on the RT81 that like the RT80 lacks the new speed sensor. Pass on the RT83 since the cartridge is not any better.

Used speakers:

Used receiver:

New receiver:

New speakers:

Tower floor standing:

Stand mount:

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

1st Aug 2020

For an upgrade from the Sony SS-MF315:

Tower floor standing:

Stand mount:

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

31st Jul 2020

New or mix and match used and new:

Receivers or integrated amps:

Compact single input amps: Add a Schiit Sys to add a second input.

AV Receivers $299+ if you will be adding a TV.

Speakers:

Floor standing towers on sale and no need to build or buy speaker stands:

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Optionally add WiFi Streaming:

  • Dayton WBA31 $42 has WiFi streaming via app control, Apple Airplay, and DNLA NAS playback.
  • Echo Dot $49 has convenient WiFi streaming voice control as well as phone/tablet control.
  • Both are also Bluetooth receivers as a backup.

Home Audio and Home Theater Guides and Accessories

sharkamino
·
/r/BudgetAudiophile
1 point

·

29th Jul 2020

Bookshelf (misnomer) speaker stands take up a bit less floor space than towers.

Stand mount speakers:

Tower floor standing speakers on sale, then you don’t need to build or buy speaker stands if you don’t already have some. Jamo S 807 Walnut ~~$449~~ $169 pair.

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Audio Guides and Accessories

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

28th Jul 2020

For the $500 price of a Sonos five you can get a much better setup and a much better setup for a turntable of an analog receiver or amp and a better pair of passive speakers instead of a digital amp single Sonos speaker.

Stereo receiver or integrated amp:

AV Receiver $209+ if there is also a TV in the room to also use the speaker with for better movie and TV sound.

Speakers on sale:

Tower floor standing speakers on sale, then you don’t need to build or buy speaker stands if you don’t already have some.

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Home Audio and Home Theater Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

28th Jul 2020

Some later speaker upgrades since the Energy can be a bit bright.

Tower floor standing speakers on sale, then you don’t need to build or buy speaker stands if you don’t already have some.

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

Home Audio and Home Theater Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

27th Jul 2020

That cabinet sounds bad for both the turntable and the receiver. Does not seem worth the hassle of limiting your options. It was only designed for the Fisher specific compact package systems, not just any audio component.

The BX-9 may sound decent however they should be serviced to sound as good as they were when new since the crossover capacitors dry out and the speaker materials degrade over 20+ years.

Yes, do try some modern speakers when you can.

Tower floor standing speakers on sale, then you don’t need to build or buy speaker stands:

DIY: Add around $35 for supplies then budget for tools if you don’t have any. Glue, clamp, solder, paint, assemble. Compare to built speakers costing over twice as much.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

27th Jul 2020

Speakers:

sharkamino
·
/r/BudgetAudiophile
1 point

·

24th Jul 2020

What is your price on the KEFS?

Have you considered the better Klipsch Reference PREMIERE?

Mani has an odd gain setting. CA has a set gain setting. Music Hall Mini Plus has an adjustable gain dial like the Art DJ Pre II. taking-the-guesswork-out-of-phonostage-gain

More speaker amplification options:

Subwoofers:

More speaker options:

Tower floor standing speakers on sale:

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

20th Jul 2020

That’s not a significant enough upgrade for it to be worthwhile. That would be going from a built in Digital amp to an external Digital mini amp and from 4″ Edifier speakers to slightly better 4″ Edifier speakers.

For an analog vinyl setup upgrade from a digital built in or mini amp to a full size analog stereo or AV receiver or integrated amp and better and often larger passive speakers.

For the best value consider buying used for $150 to $300. What is a nearby town or zip I can search for you? Reply or PM.

For new, Sony STR-DH190 $149, plus speakers:

If there is also a TV in the room to also use the speakers with for better movie and TV sound:

Home Audio and Home Theater Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

14th Jul 2020

Yep, that’s a good option. Upgrade your main setup and move whatever you are upgrading from to the other room.

Also look for used speakers locally? Where can I search?

More new speaker options:

New but vintage style though over budget: Wharfedale Denton 80th Anniversary. ~~$999~~ $499.

More towers on sale:

Stand mount speakers:

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

13th Jul 2020

Analog stereo receiver: Sony STRDH190 $149.

Speakers on sale:

Towers: No need to build or buy speaker stands.

Stand mount speakers:

If there is also a TV in the room to also use the speakers with for better movie and TV sound:

Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

12th Jul 2020

Better speakers or deals than the Sony:

Towers: No need to build or buy speaker stands.

Stand mount speakers:

Audio Guides and Accessories

sharkamino
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

24th Jul 2020

A noticeable improvement.

However if you want Jamo 803 don’t pay more than MSRP on Amazon, they are $126 at Adorama.

Also don’t pay more than $109 for the Yamaha R-S202BL since it’s not worth any more than that. You can probably find a better used receiver for less or around the same price. What is a nearby town or zip I can search for used options for you? Reply or PM. Is there also a TV in the room to also use the speakers with for better movie and TV sound?

Better Yamaha are YAMAHA R-N303 ~~$349~~ $249 or YAMAHA A-S301 ~~$399~~ $299.

Or the Pioneer SX10AE $139 or Sony STR-DH190 $149 should be better than the R-S202. Or the Pioneer A-10AE $199.

If your speaker budget is $275, better speakers:

Tower floor standing speakers on sale, then you don’t need to build or buy speaker stands:

Audio Guides and Accessories and also check out r/BudgetAudiophile.

polypeptide147
·
/r/audiophile
1 point

·

12th Apr 2019

It depends how much room you have on your desk and what the arrangement will be like.

A pair of Wharfedales would be great for a desk. They’re bottom ported, meaning you can place them wherever and you won’t have a problem. They have an extremely warm and rich midrange, that makes vocals sound fantastic. 220 if you don’t have as much space. You’ll lose low end extension though.

If you have plenty of room, Elac Debut B6.2 would be great. They’re pretty neutral, and fun to listen to. Plenty of low end extension, and the front firing woofer allows for flexibility where they go.

Getting closer to the top of your budget would be a pair of KEF Q150. Beautiful speakers, and they excel at close listening in my opinion. The coaxial drivers are fantastic. Extreme detail and clarity with these. These are some of the prettiest speakers out there. Someone else just got a pair today

Last but not least, Ascend Acoustics. These are a very neutral speaker. They sound fantastic, everything from the highs to the lows. However, they are a bit large, and they’re rear ported, meaning you’ll need to move them away from the wall a bit.

With any of these, you’ll need an amp. An SMSL SA36 should do the trick.

I think the Wharfedales are a ‘safe’ bet. They won’t kill you with their detail and clarity (which some people don’t like). They’ll be smooth and relaxing and easy to listen to.

I have KEF on my desk.

PixelPunkRS
·
/r/BudgetAudiophile
1 point

·

9th Jul 2018

All over Europe really, I think its clearance sales because a new line up is coming soon.You can check amazon.co.uk ( £120 is about €135 right now), amazon.de or online stores. Might also be worth it to go to a local retailer.

dsmdylan
·
/r/Televisions
1 point

·

17th Aug 2017

I’d try for something like this:

Skitch_n_Sketch
·
/r/audiophile
1 point

·

24th Apr 2017

LSR305’s would be the default suggestion, but it’d already be stretching your budget. Plus I can’t find a European site that sells them without marking them up even more. The best option I can find for you is the Wharfedale Diamond 220 paired with a SMSL SA-50. If you could verify that the prices aren’t wildly out of budget that’d be great, not sure how accurate my side is.

Here’s a review I pulled from a forum if you’re interested.

>The bass that is present is quite clean but the lower mids can seem a bit muddy at times. But a good plus on the bass is the down firing port makes it very easy to place these in a room and the extension is nice, not as good as the SuperOne’s but very close.

>The imaging and soundstage on these are wonderful and there’s also a bit of treble roll off and tilt towards the bass.

>What I noticed about both Wharfedales is they have a bit of a thicker sound than the rest of the speakers, not sure exactly how to explain it but they carry a bit of weight/body to their sound that most other speakers don’t have and just about all of the other speakers sound thing when quickly A/B’ing them except for the Elac B6’s.

>These sound a bit warm.

Pros:

  • Quality mid-bass kick
  • Down firing bass makes these easy to place

Cons:

  • The lower mids get a bit muddy
  • Can get a bit hot at times on snares and female vocals
ALEXJ1993
·
/r/vinyl
1 point

·

14th Nov 2016

Thanks for your help! Would any amplifier work with this? as that amp is around £550 which is out of my price range.

Would something such as http://www.richersounds.com/product/amplifiers-receivers/onkyo/a9010/onkyo-a-9010-blk suffice

along with https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00OHIZQ50/ref=pd_sim_23_8?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=4P10HVBB72NBA3EB06ZP

And the pre amp recommended on the complimentary components?

applevinegar
·
/r/audiophile
1 point

·

24th Sep 2016

Wharfedale Diamond 220s or ELAC B6s + SVS SB-2000 + Pioneer VSX-831 (stereo receivers don’t have bass management and room correction).

The Zensors are a little better but you couldn’t get a decent sub with your budget otherwise.

doomdirk
·
/r/ZReviews
1 point

·

5th Sep 2016

You could look at Wharfedale’s diamond series speakers (220 or 225) to stick with the brand. Alternatives I also enjoy are Q acoustics 3020 or concept 20, Dali Zensor, Sonus Faber Principia 1. I would always recommend listening to a couple of different speakers before actually settling on a specific set though, maybe your tastes are completely different from mine. If there are no dealers near you, you could always try to select your top 3 in your price bracket, order all of them and send 2 pairs back ;).

As far as cheap amps go, I only tested a SMSL SA-60 which seemed a little weak with some bigger speakers (could’ve been a bad unit since I’ve heard so many good things about those little amps, who knows) and upgraded that to a Pro-ject Stereo Box S. I actually like the Pro-ject amp for small setups. (comes with a tiny remote and has 2 sets of RCA inputs). I found that I didn’t need anything else with bookshelf speakers up to around 1.200€ after testing a couple of full size amps that were supposed to be “so much better”.

Good Luck

turbosubaru
·
/r/hometheater
1 point

·

29th May 2015

Avr: http://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/item/marnr1403/marantz-nr1403-slimline-5.1-av-receiver/1.html $219.99

Speakers: http://emptek.com/r55ti.php $695

Sub: http://www.hsuresearch.com/products/stf-2.html $319

Too pricey?

Avr: same

Speakers: http://www.amazon.com/Wharfedale-220-B-Diamond-220-Black/dp/B00OHIZQ50 $349

Sub: http://www.outlawaudio.com/products/m8.html $299

Budget system?

Avr: http://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-RX-V377-5-1-Channel-Theater-Receiver/dp/B00HZE2WW8 $179.99

Speakers: http://www.amazon.com/Fluance-SX6-Definition-Bookshelf-Loudspeakers/dp/B00067OS0A $129.99

Sub: http://www.amazon.com/NXG-Technology-NX-BAS-500-500-watt-Subwoofer/dp/B008FSTU4G $234.87

Beer Budget?

Avr: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00M3NZDN6/ref=twister_B00MJ4HQ84?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 $159.99

Speakers: http://www.amazon.com/Micca-MB42X-Bookshelf-Speakers-Black/dp/B00E7H8GG2 $80.75

Sub: http://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-sub-1500-15-150-watt-powered-subwoofer–300-634 $198(I have a $10 off coupon you can use=$188)

Cables: http://www.monoprice.com/Category?c_id=102

or

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=sr_nr_n_18?fst=as%3Aoff&rh=n%3A172282%2Cn%3A667846011%2Ck%3AAmazonbasic&keywords=Amazonbasic&ie=UTF8&qid=1432914193&rnid=493964

turbosubaru
·
/r/hometheater
1 point

·

25th May 2015

These would be a great match for the marantz: http://www.amazon.com/Wharfedale-220-B-Diamond-220-Black/dp/B00OHIZQ50 $350

I’d enjoy stereo for a while and save some $ for a better sub like the entry level HSU

atd08
·
/r/audiophile
0 points

·

30th Jun 2015
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