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So what about powered Speakers?

Given the quality of affordable speakers like those from Bluesound I decided to try a couple of powered studio monitors.

The first was the Yorkville YSM5 Studio Monitor. These I had for a year. They were most enjoyable, but lacked some bass

The second is the Focal Alpha 65 Evo 6.5 inch Powered Studio Monitor which arrived today - so I am listening to them as I type laugh

They improved the bass performance significantly, along with a nicer top end and larger sound stage

But this is only a part of the story - you can read about my journey in this thread

Powered Speaker Approach

The impotus for this change was the realization that I had too much money tied up in my previous audio system and wondered if I could get close to it’s sound for a fraction of my previous system.

I believe I have succeded since I am finding the listening to this frugal system is providing more enjoyment than my old system did

Some may think studio monitors are for Near Field listening - true - but the Focal’s are equally as good at delivering a superb image in my listening room that is 17ft x 40ft

I think todays affordable electronics is far better than many believe it to be.

Powered speakers eliminate the need for speaker cables and since the amps are in the speaker the improvements in imaging, clarity and dynamics is significant.

Granted, this approach lacks the ablity to upgrade the amp or speakers seperately - but with speakers of this calibre, upgrading is the farthest thing from my mindangel

I would like to add that I using exceptional interconnects and power cables, which I have no doubt contribute to this wonderful sound

Hope some of you find this thread useful in your journey

Regards Steve

 

williewonka
williewonka OP
3,167 posts
 

One thing I should have mentioned - Each speaker has a built in Amp.

Unlike some "powered speakers", which have the amp in one speaker with a cable from that speaker to the second speaker.

I do not think this would not perform to the same level, because it requires a speaker cable to connect the two speakers, which might impact the imaging.

Many audophiles promote having a mono amp as close to each speaker as possible, This approach minimizes the impact a speaker cable has on the sound.

However - the Avantegarde  ZERO ITRON speaker is amplified and provides exceptoinal quality

The reason for my post was to raise awareness among audiophiles "on a budget" that this type of speaker/setup is available these days, offering exceptional sound and is quite affordable.

Regards Steve

theophile's avatar
theophile
410 posts
 

Those who have used high quality active speakers as music listening speakers far field not at a desk, know that the implementation determines the quality of the result. Not whether it is active or passive.

High quality active enables one to concentrate resources to the Source and preamp. Where there will be the greatest system gains.

rushfan71's avatar
rushfan71
315 posts
 

@celtic66 I appreciate that. Who would have known the obvious choice was probably the best one. Certainly not cheap at what this review lists as 10,000 euro in 2024. Great measurements, very low noise and like you said fast. Plenty of connectivity too. 2 tape loops show its studio roots

Here's the review https://www.alpha-audio.net/review/atc-sca2-preamplifier-30-years-of-excellence/4/

https://atc.audio/hi-fi/electronics/amplifiers/pre/sca2/

bassbuyer's avatar
bassbuyer
887 posts
 

Thanks for sharing your journey.  Good to read that you’ve found a powered pair of speakers that works for you playing the music you love in your room which is key.  I’ve had a positive experience with powered speakers in setups where separate equipment isn’t optimal and where price is such that if they fail they can be replaced.  I’ve not had a positive experience with higher end speakers with internal amps due to amp repair and replacement issues and cost over time.  Hope your equipment lasts a long time.  Enjoy! 

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