When Usher Audio approached us about a review, I picked out a bookshelf speaker towards the middle of the price range of their catalog. Much to my surprise, they suggested their newest and least expensive speaker. For a company whose most expensive set of speakers tops $16k, to recommend a $400 pair of bookshelves showed a lot of confidence. After spending some time with these speakers, I’m convinced that Usher Audio is looking to dispel the idea that you need to search the Internet for quality bookshelf speakers at a reasonable price.
When Usher Audio approached us about a review, I picked out a bookshelf speaker towards the middle of the price range of their catalog. Much to my surprise, they suggested their newest and least expensive speaker. For a company whose most expensive set of speakers tops $16k, to recommend a $400 pair of bookshelves showed a lot of confidence. After spending some time with these speakers, I’m convinced that Usher Audio is looking to dispel the idea that you need to search the Internet for quality bookshelf speakers at a reasonable price.
I am surprised that no one has commented on this glowing review yet. I have not heard them, but a friend of mine out in LA has, and told me they were really exceptional for the price.
Great review. I didn't know Usher had affordable offerings. You can compare this bookshelf to Outlaw's newest bookshelf ($999-$1099). Some value Outlaw's made in the USA brand.
It is a good speaker. When I had a pair in my house, however, the Ascend 340 SE was significantly better. The 340 is 568/pair. People who have compared the Ascend 170 to the Usher thought the 170 better.
Another good Usher speaker is the V-601. At $750 it is very good. I prefer the 340, but the finish on the Usher is very nice. I think Usher is a good company, one which should receive more attention. I wold love to hear the higher end Usher bookshelves.
I've not been a fan personally of the Ascends, but it's a matter of taste. I have not heard any Ushers but I would like to. I agree that they make some gorgeous speakers.
I went to Usher's website.. as I wanted to know where I could here them. Did the find a dealer thing and typed in my zip code. The site came back and said I am near NO dealers. It was a great review... but looks like I won't get a chance to hear them.
I had the pleasure of listening to these babies tonight. They are beautiful speakers with a very clean, crisp sound. I personally wouldn't call them overly bright as Tom did, but then again I like my highs to be slightly forward. Just not to the point of harsh on the ear.
I would definitely recommend these to anybody.
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I'm the child of the household, so why shouldn't I get all the T O Y S
(my wife just won't let me buy them)
I've not been a fan personally of the Ascends, but it's a matter of taste. I have not heard any Ushers but I would like to. I agree that they make some gorgeous speakers.
Let me add that the people I know who compared the 520 to the Ascend 170 pointed out that it was close and that the Usher was a whole lot better looking--even a blind person could figure that one out.
Usher Audio S-520 Bookshelf Speaker Review
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