How to Enjoy the Best Stereo Loudspeakers for Less
Buying high-quality loudspeakers are easily the most expensive investment you are ever going to make in your audio system. That’s because speakers are directly responsible for more than 90% of the overall sound quality. Good speaker drivers do not come cheap and a nice enclosure to house them is mandatory. But if you haven’t got tens of thousands leftover for nice speakers, you may be wondering how to get the best stereo loudspeakers for a reasonable price.
First of all, you can always purchase used quality loudspeakers. Even the most expensive models tend to lose value over time which is comparable to new versus used car prices. Some of the higher end speaker models from B&W or Magnepan can often be found for 30% less or at even less than that. One of my favorite places for second hand audio gear is audiogon.com because eBay is mostly focused on cheap speakers or mass consumer products.
Another potential method is to re-evaluate your needs, your listening room and preferences. Most of the larger brand-name manufacturers offer smaller sized versions of their flagship models for smaller rooms. Most of these speakers sound exactly the same; they employ the same drivers while costing a lot less. The major difference is often only the maximum sound pressure level. For example, B&W offers the Nautilus 805 bookshelf speaker which sounds identical to its larger siblings. But it was designer for smaller rooms. In the case of Magnepan, there is the entry-level MMG model which sounds absolutely stunning if you are into magneto-static speakers.
A third possibility is to build your own high-end speakers. You don’t need to be an expert, though. Just stick with a kit. The primary advantage is that you can somewhat decide how you want the enclosure to look like. And to a certain extent you can fine-tune the sound to your preferences. Many audiophiles have become addicted DIY enthusiasts as a result.