(originally posted to audioreview.com on 2001.03.05)
Overall Rating
5 of 5
Value Rating
5 of 5
Product Model Year:
2000
Summary:
These are outstanding speakers. When I was considering what to purchase, I auditioned Paradigm, Mirage, KEF, Klipsch and some others. In this price range, I thought the PSBs were the clear winner. (Incidentally, I was least impressed with the KEFs–much too forward. I’d give second place to the Paradigms.)
The highs on might be a bit bright for some (not as bright at the Mirage at this price point), but suit my taste perfectly. What really made these speakers stand out from the pack, though, were the mids. Incredibly clear and well-imaged. A good test track, I found, is the Art of Noise “Il Pleure” which tests a good dynamic range as well as really stressing the vocals. I tell you, you will swear the singer is standing in the room.
As far as bass (not “base”) response, these speakers deliver clear and tight bass. The frequency response is very flat and if you are used to speakers that thump, then these might sound light on the bass. Be very careful with how you place them, as I’ve found six inches either way closer or futher from the wall makes a big difference. The bass these produce is very tight and moving them a little closer to the wall gives them a bit more umph without making them muddy. I agree that bi-wiring also seems to help. Also, be careful about your upstream components. Don’t use these speakers with consumer-grade low-current amps–the bass *will* sound a bit off. These things want current. Listen to them with something like a NAD or HK (or better) component driving them.
With a good amp, the real problem with these speakers is that they may be a bit too revealing. If you have a CD that is originally from an analog source and a less-than-forgiving DAC, you can hear pops or clicks from the analog source when you really crank these up. If you need a better amp or a better DAC, these speakers will let you know.
Oh, and as others have mentioned, they look great and don’t take up too much floor space, which is always a plus in a real living room.
I like ’em and am planning to do HT with matching Image componts (8C up front, 1B or 2B rears), except maybe the sub. PSB subs seem a bit pricey for what you get. Any recommendations that would match well with these?
Strengths:
Imaging, flat response, appearance, price/performance
Weaknesses:
Nothing major
Similar Products Used:
Paradigm, Mirage, KEF, Klipsch