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Okay, I am Taking the Pro Audio Plunge

Over the last year, I’ve read seemingly countless anecdotes about how pro audio gear can trounce alleged “HiFi” brands of the usual suspects, dollar-for-dollar. I am talking Pro Audio brands the likes of Neumann, Genelec, Adam and ATC Pro. 
Some allege that models from these brands represent the true state-of-the-art in speaker design. I mean, say what you want about ASR and their implicit bias, but how can you ignore reviews such as this?:

https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/neumann-kh-310a-review-powered-monitor.17723/
 

I felt compelled to test this theory to the best of my ability, and within my means. Thusly, I purchased the Neumann KH310 monitors to test at home.

So what do you believe I might expect when these are compared to my Satori Helios Textremes and modest Parasound A21? I plan to listen at “mid-field” distances. 

Regards

 

 

helomech
helomech OP
2,021 posts
 

Thanks for the responses. I will probably cancel my Neumanns order for now. It’s not like I’m displeased with my current speakers or setup anyway. I just know there is more detail and insight to be had from higher end domestic options, but all those are out of my budget. The research will continue…

mapman's avatar
mapman
23,642 posts
 

Good idea!  Do your homework then go for it!  You only live twice. 

bassbuyer's avatar
bassbuyer
916 posts
 

I expect that eventually the internal amps will need service if not replacing.  Based on my experience with powered speakers.  Won’t purchase again until I see a manufacturer offer a 10 year warranty on electronics like I have on my passive speakers.  I hope you have a better experience.  

mm1tt77
257 posts
 

My experience is when you have the itch in Hifi, you eventually always scratch it.  Can you return the speakers if the experiment doesn’t go as planned?  Order them, try them and now you’ll know if it’s the sound you are chasing.  Kind of checks 2 boxes, pro audio / measurements theory and active speakers are better box.  If you don’t go all in you will always wonder.  Take the plunge, experiment and either way you’ll know more than you did before about what your perfect sound is. 

helomech OP
2,021 posts
 

@mm1tt77 

I am sure I could return the monitors if they don’t work out, but it’s a hassle of course; and I have since determined there are likely better options than the Neumann KH310s for my needs. So regardless, I need to do more research before the purchase. 

I was listening to my Satori Helios last night, and it was hard for me to imagine there are any active monitors under $10K that are likely to beat them appreciably. Thus, the “itch” has largely subsided.

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