[D Bone]

The brushed vinyl scratches very easily. Ridiculously easy to ruin he finish on these speakers.

Wow....... Do you have a small brown bear in your home? Seriously though, is it as bad as it looks in the photo, and do you know how it happened?

 

[ChicksDigMyReceiver]

Wow....... Do you have a small brown bear in your home? Seriously though, is it as bad as it looks in the photo, and do you know how it happened?

Looks like the claws of a 2 to 3 year old munchkin.

 

[Kingchip161]

The brushed vinyl scratches very easily. Ridiculously easy to ruin he finish on these speakers.

How did this happen? I thought the vinyl finish would be a good choice for me(at least better than a gloss finish)since I have a toddler in the house, now you have me second guessing myself

 

[SoCalGuy-99]

As I mentioned previously for me XT and XT32 are day and night!

Well, I guess it's about time I chime in on the XT vs XT32 debate, and anyone can take it for what they think it's worth...(I) put in some of my reference material and was prepared to be blown away by the superiority of XT32...Or so I thought. I was extremely disappointed in that my system/room sounded the same to my 47yr old ears as it did with the X2000's XT.

No debate (at least not on my part) but a lot of people new to this hobby are coming to this forum so I think it might be worth explaining how both experiences can be true and not mutually-exclusive.

I made all of the usual manual changes to some of the settings like all speakers to small, x-overs to 80hz and tweaked the delays a 1/10th or 2 based on what I know sounds best. I was extremely disappointed in that my system/room sounded the same to my 47yr old ears as it did with the X2000's XT. Maybe it was because I expected too much based on the hype of how superior it was to XT, but I just didn't hear it. I then ran a few more 8pt calibrations over the next week or so, but never had that "ah-ha" moment where I could jump on the 32 superiority bandwagon.

The important thing for people to remember is that Audyssey is only a room correction program. And its only job is to make one's system have an flat frequency response (time corrected) in their room with their speakers - thereby getting the speakers to sound (as much as possible in that room) as the designer designed them to sound. If someone has a fairly solid acoustic room then XT might be sufficient and any additional processing would be overkill and wouldn't add any additional value/improvements.

I have well documented that my room was an incredibly acoustically challenged room and the extra processing power and additional correction capability of XT32 made all the difference. It's analogous to my wife opening jars, she can open jars on her own but (every once it a while) she comes across a stubborn jar which she gives to me. I open the jar the exact same way as her, holding it in both hands, turning the lid counter-clockwise, but because I can apply a little more force the jar opens.

Does this mean that my wife isn't able to open the average jars or her capability with the average jars is any less than mine (of course not) but when she does runs into a stubborn one, the extra force I am able to apply causes a "night & day" difference in the results (meaning with her, the jar remains unopened and with me the jar is opened). Our son asks her to open "his" jars all the time (as for him) he sees no value in waiting for Dad to come home and open his jars, as Mom gets the job done perfectly fine!! But there may come a day where Dad can add some value.

This is the same with XT vs XT32 - in my room (with my setup) XT wasn't able to overcome the acoustic challenges of my room yet the extra processing power and additional correction capabilities of XT32 made the difference (and hence my jar was opened ). It was most likely due to the individual dual-sub (time and level corrections) along with the increased 4X subwoofer filter resolution that XT32 has over XT.

Quote from Audyssey - "XT32, our most accurate room correction solution with more than ten thousand individual control points allowing finer details of the room’s problems to be captured and corrected. The ultra high resolution filters are applied to all channels including the subwoofers, with the most obvious benefit being heard in the low frequency range where correction is needed the most."

So again if one doesn't have any issues/major issues in this area then XT32 will be of no additional benefit and not worth the extra cost. In other words, if it's not broke then XT32 can't improve it, and the money is better (saved) or spent elsewhere. And by no means is XT32 (or any other room correction program) a golden panacea, it's just another tool in the toolbox.

So based on this first hand experience is why I currently own an X3200 with XT (as for me) it is a no-brainer/best value vs spec unit that I could find.

So based on this first hand experience is why I currently own an X4200 with XT32 (as for me) it is a no-brainer/best value vs spec unit that I could find.

So both experiences can be true and they are not mutually-exclusive. That's why all forums are filled with the term YMMV (Your Mileage May Vary) by posters, because in life there are almost no universal experiences (except maybe death and taxes) and each person's experience is bound to be different, even with regards to death and taxes.

Now to contemplate "what color of jarred swarmsnoodles" would be best, and who can open them?

 

[bigjeep127]

Not to further digress but is the opinion that Multi EQ XT > Multi EQ and Multi EQ XT32 >>> Multi EQ?

I tried Multi EQ a few years ago and didn't like the results. Just tried again with the Uni-Fi's and same, didn't like the results at all. I'm sort of eyeing new receivers but the jump to XT32 sure is pricey, especially on the Marantz models. If it would make a big difference on my 2 DIY subs it may be worth it.

Funny thing is, in my car I have a JBL MS-8 which auto corrects. It is famously (and correctly) known to be very finicky. But once I got it right I fell in love. I can't say the same for Multi EQ, I haven't been able to get it close to anything that sounds better than even just the flat receiver settings. If it's that worthless I wish they wouldn't even sell it. Because I was excited to have some room correction built in when I bought my Marantz for $600 a while back. But now I'm leery of making the same mistake and overpaying for a "better" version that I also won't use.

 

[D Bone]

Not to further digress but is the opinion that Multi EQ XT > Multi EQ and Multi EQ XT32 >>> Multi EQ?

I tried Multi EQ a few years ago and didn't like the results. Just tried again with the Uni-Fi's and same, didn't like the results at all. I'm sort of eyeing new receivers but the jump to XT32 sure is pricey, especially on the Marantz models. If it would make a big difference on my 2 DIY subs it may be worth it.

Funny thing is, in my car I have a JBL MS-8 which auto corrects. It is famously (and correctly) known to be very finicky. But once I got it right I fell in love. I can't say the same for Multi EQ, I haven't been able to get it close to anything that sounds better than even just the flat receiver settings. If it's that worthless I wish they wouldn't even sell it. Because I was excited to have some room correction built in when I bought my Marantz for $600 a while back. But now I'm leery of making the same mistake and overpaying for a "better" version that I also won't use.

I wouldn't buy an AVR 'just' based on its room correction scheme. Find one that has all the features you want/need vs price and go from there.

My next AVR will have the ability to limit the upper frequency that will be EQ'd - Like Anthem's ARC. That's were I think Audyssey loses some people, with what it does from 500hz on up.

Yamaha's YPAO on their newer 2016 models now have sub EQ down to 15hz, and you can manually adjust the PEQ for all channels, or let YPAO do it for you, and then manually tweak it yourself - Pretty cool.

On Audyssey's Facebook page Chris has said a couple of times that "they are designing something new" and "let's just say it's going to be the year of the preference"........ To me it sounds like they are going to make Audyssey more user friendly in terms of user customization........ No time frame on when the new stuff will appear.

 

[Sam514]

Hey guys, long time reader, first time posting

So I currently own a Yamaha 477 and was wondering if this A/V Receiver is good enough to drive the Uni Fi B5 Speakers?

My second question is about bookshelf comparisons. I have been in the market for a good bookshelf speakers in the 500 to 600 price range and have decided between either the Elac Uni Fi B5 Bookshelfs or the JBL Studio 530. Has anyone tried both and if so which do you think has a better value?

Thank you and I will eagerly be awaiting for your reply.

 

[Viche]

http://slickdeals.net/f/8806879-den...ltra-hd-network-a-v-receiver-897-at-frys-com-in-store-pick-up-online-order-ymmv here is the link you get the code from the frys emails if your not signed up already many someone can pass you a code.
After buying the receiver then researching it 🤗 everyone seems to say the version xt32 over xt is significant. Also you get low freq calibration.
Ill read up on the pro stuff but I think you can pay someone to do it instead of buying the kit but idk how much

Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk

Thanks...looks like it ended 6/4.

Thanks for all the Auddesey opinions as well everyone, and the speaker stand suggestion. Wish I had more time to make these decisions. Sigh

 

[hobsocc7]

Deals still good I might have a code that works for ya if you want it

Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk

 

[rvr2k3]

I just received an email from Elac that they will be sending me a replacement for the Uni-FI B5s that have the loose object in the base.

Wonder if they will be unblemished.....

 

[crenca]

Hey guys, long time reader, first time posting

So I currently own a Yamaha 477 and was wondering if this A/V Receiver is good enough to drive the Uni Fi B5 Speakers?

My second question is about bookshelf comparisons. I have been in the market for a good bookshelf speakers in the 500 to 600 price range and have decided between either the Elac Uni Fi B5 Bookshelfs or the JBL Studio 530. Has anyone tried both and if so which do you think has a better value?

Thank you and I will eagerly be awaiting for your reply.

Probably, if you resist the temptation to not push the SPL too much and the room is not on the large size. I would recommend the Debut line (particularly the B6), as they would be a little easier on your amp...

 

[kenbefound]

I just picked up a NAD C316BEE off Craigslist for $160! Paired with the blemished tax free Uni-Fi B5s I upgraded from a Denon AVR3803 and Advent speakers for $560.

My God the improvement in sound is INCREDIBLE!

Although I do have something loose in the Elacs. I replied to the shipping email but have not heard back yet.

Same thing happened to me. I just emailed ELAC. Are they supplying you with a prepaid label to send the defective units back?

 

[Sam514]

Probably, if you resist the temptation to not push the SPL too much and the room is not on the large size. I would recommend the Debut line (particularly the B6), as they would be a little easier on your amp...

Thanks for the advise crenca.

While I hear the Debut B6 are incredible speakers for the value, I wanted to pay a bit more for a quality sounding speakers that will last awhile. I felt that 500-700 price range was perfect in achieving that goal. However from your comment, I am getting worried that the Yamaha RX-V477 will be the bottleneck from achieving a great sounding speakers.

 

[rvr2k3]

Same thing happened to me. I just emailed ELAC. Are they supplying you with a prepaid label to send the defective units back?

They said they were emailing a return label. But I haven't received one yet.

My replacements have shipped. I received the Fed Ex notification already.

 

[kenbefound]

They said they were emailing a return label. But I haven't received one yet.

My replacements have shipped. I received the Fed Ex notification already.

Thanks, I'm curious what the heck is moving around in there. It sounds rather substantial, not just a loose screw by any means, lol.

 

[rvr2k3]

Thanks, I'm curious what the heck is moving around in there. It sounds rather substantial, not just a loose screw by any means, lol.

I sent them an email asking that very same question. I'll let you know if I hear back.

 

[kenbefound]

I sent them an email asking that very same question. I'll let you know if I hear back.

I'm tempted to open it up but don't want to void the warranty.

So what do you think about the speakers so far? I fired mine up last night for the first time, just listened to them some more this morning and I found the mid range to be very interesting, I'm use to a subdued midrange but have been wanting something a little more present & detailed. These definitely fit the bill but could be a case of careful what you ask for, lol. In the mean time I'll keep listening, burning them in and see if it all settles out.

I also have some things to say about distancing the rear port from the back wall (or front wall depending on your POV). Some have indicated it made little difference but not my findings at all. I initially listened to them in my home theater and they sounded a bit lost (at least two feet away from any adjacent walls). But when I brought them up to my office (their ultimate destination) I found the bass a bit boomy when about 11 inches from the back wall (18 to 20 inches from side walls). Now have them about 13 or 14 and the mid bass is much better controlled. Will probably try 15 to 16 inches later today. I was originally hoping to keep them tight against adjacent walls as I don't want speakers in the middle of my office space, lol.

 

[crenca]

I'm tempted to open it up but don't want to void the warranty.

So what do you think about the speakers so far? I fired mine up last night for the first time, just listened to them some more this morning and I found the mid range to be very interesting, I'm use to a subdued midrange but have been wanting something a little more present & detailed. These definitely fit the bill but could be a case of careful what you ask for, lol. In the mean time I'll keep listening, burning them in and see if it all settles out.

I also have some things to say about distancing the rear port from the back wall (or front wall depending on your POV). Some have indicated it made little difference but not my findings at all. I initially listened to them in my home theater and they sounded a bit lost (at least two feet away from any adjacent walls). But when I brought them up to my office (their ultimate destination) I found the bass a bit boomy when about 11 inches from the back wall (18 to 20 inches from side walls). Now have them about 13 or 14 and the mid bass is much better controlled. Will probably try 15 to 16 inches later today. I was originally hoping to keep them tight against adjacent walls as I don't want speakers in the middle of my office space, lol.

Based on this and what a couple of others have said, it appears these Uni-Fi's benefit from room/wall reinforcement (as all speakers do). What is your HT amp - how many REAL watts was it giving them? I am wondering if the average HT AVR can give enough current to these Uni-Fi's to bring out the low end in them in a speaker placement that is not leveraging room/wall reinforcement to the max (as when they are 10-20 inches from back and side walls)...

 

[rvr2k3]

I'm tempted to open it up but don't want to void the warranty.

So what do you think about the speakers so far? I fired mine up last night for the first time, just listened to them some more this morning and I found the mid range to be very interesting, I'm use to a subdued midrange but have been wanting something a little more present & detailed. These definitely fit the bill but could be a case of careful what you ask for, lol. In the mean time I'll keep listening, burning them in and see if it all settles out.

I also have some things to say about distancing the rear port from the back wall (or front wall depending on your POV). Some have indicated it made little difference but not my findings at all. I initially listened to them in my home theater and they sounded a bit lost (at least two feet away from any adjacent walls). But when I brought them up to my office (their ultimate destination) I found the bass a bit boomy when about 11 inches from the back wall (18 to 20 inches from side walls). Now have them about 13 or 14 and the mid bass is much better controlled. Will probably try 15 to 16 inches later today. I was originally hoping to keep them tight against adjacent walls as I don't want speakers in the middle of my office space, lol.

I agree the mid range is definitely "bright". My setup is hard because I have an open living area so I am covering a large area. My speakers are aimed primarily towards the couch so sitting on it has the best sound stage in the room.

The Elacs are basically used in 2.0 so I can't say what it sounds like in the HT situation. FLAC, Vinyl and CD sources sound fabulous. My Sonos also sounds stellar. Even playing via Bluetooth through my Echo Dot sounds better than my previous set up.

I am incredibly satisfied with the sound of these speakers. The loud, loose component was worrying but I am glad Elac is addressing it. Sadly I will be getting another blemished one to replace it, was wishing for an unblemished one. I hope they checked it before shipping.

 

[kenbefound]

Based on this and what a couple of others have said, it appears these Uni-Fi's benefit from room/wall reinforcement (as all speakers do). What is your HT amp - how many REAL watts was it giving them? I am wondering if the average HT AVR can give enough current to these Uni-Fi's to bring out the low end in them in a speaker placement that is not leveraging room/wall reinforcement to the max (as when they are 10-20 inches from back and side walls)...

Unfortunately my NAD surround receiver is out on repair. A common occurrence with the NAD's but sound so nice when they run.
Am currently auditioning these with an Adcom GFA-5802 which conservatively delivers 300 watts a side.