Revel F52, PSB Synch 1 owners feedback please

[Beatmatcher247]

Revel F52

I'm currently trying to decide on the front 3 of my first 5.1 setup worth mentioning. Speakers I've listened to so far have been many from KEF, PSB, and Focal. So far, I've liked the PSB Synchrony 1's the best. Can you tell me what you like about your Revel F52's, and any feedback you can give me in how they in your opinion compare to PSB Synchrony 1's would be greatly helpful in me deciding whether or not to make an 8 hour drive to audition some Revel F52s.

I'm not a knowledgeable audiofile by any means. I will say a brief bit about what I like about the PSB Synchrony 1s. Neither tinny, nor chunky midrange, or overly bassy, the sound they produce doesn't sound like it's being blasted at you. It floats through the air and hangs thickly, and beautifully. They do though seem like they need a little help with the very bottom end of things... but this might be a how a neutral speaker should sound as in a lot of my past experiences with much lesser quality speakers, the bass was way exxaggerated and so was the high portion, while the midrange was completely neglected.

I did also really like some Focal 30th anniversary towers, but found them to be yet more lacking in the low end, and extremely focused with their sound disspersion. The sweet spot was very small with these.

I like to listen at pretty high levels so I am planning to do seperates. But first, I must decide on the speakers so I can do some research on what it will take to make them sing. The PSB Synch 1's were behind a $8,000 McIntosh amplifier... It was like an other-worldly experience but that is a crazy amount of cash for me to drop on an amplifier. Can I do them justice with a good preamp and amplifier for under $4,000? What are some more modestly priced, but quality sound amplifiers to drive those synchrony ones? I don't want it to start shutting down and blowing tweeters etc.. when I rock out.

Any other suggestions in this range on the speakers would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks guys.

 

[trnqk7]

No idea on the Revels, but as far as amps go, for under $4k you should take a look at Emotiva and Outlaw. Both have amps and pre pros that can be purchased together for well UNDER $4k. Both are also very high quality brands-at least they have honest measurements and equipment that tends to stand the test of time. Just some thoughts to get you started.

 

[InTheIndustry]

Revel F52

I'm currently trying to decide on the front 3 of my first 5.1 setup worth mentioning. Speakers I've listened to so far have been many from KEF, PSB, and Focal. So far, I've liked the PSB Synchrony 1's the best. Can you tell me what you like about your Revel F52's, and any feedback you can give me in how they in your opinion compare to PSB Synchrony 1's would be greatly helpful in me deciding whether or not to make an 8 hour drive to audition some Revel F52s.

I'm not a knowledgeable audiofile by any means. I will say a brief bit about what I like about the PSB Synchrony 1s. Neither tinny, nor chunky midrange, or overly bassy, the sound they produce doesn't sound like it's being blasted at you. It floats through the air and hangs thickly, and beautifully. They do though seem like they need a little help with the very bottom end of things... but this might be a how a neutral speaker should sound as in a lot of my past experiences with much lesser quality speakers, the bass was way exxaggerated and so was the high portion, while the midrange was completely neglected.

I did also really like some Focal 30th anniversary towers, but found them to be yet more lacking in the low end, and extremely focused with their sound disspersion. The sweet spot was very small with these.

I like to listen at pretty high levels so I am planning to do seperates. But first, I must decide on the speakers so I can do some research on what it will take to make them sing. The PSB Synch 1's were behind a $8,000 McIntosh amplifier... It was like an other-worldly experience but that is a crazy amount of cash for me to drop on an amplifier. Can I do them justice with a good preamp and amplifier for under $4,000? What are some more modestly priced, but quality sound amplifiers to drive those synchrony ones? I don't want it to start shutting down and blowing tweeters etc.. when I rock out.

Any other suggestions in this range on the speakers would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks guys.

I am a PSB dealer and have looked at the Revel line several times over the years. Both are great brands, but I think that the Synchrony One from PSB is a tremendous value in upper tier loudspeakers and is in a class by itself. I haven't found a better speaker in the Synchrony One price range or else I would pick up the line.

While PSB isn't my favorite brand of speaker, but I would say that when they hit a home run with a product it is an incredible value. The Synchrony One is definitely a home run. I'm a dealer of (roughly) two dozen different brands of speakers that cover the high and low end of custom audio. I can't think of another pair of speakers $4k-$10K that I would say are definitely "better" for 2 channel music. I would caution you that the PSB Synchrony One is boundary/placement sensitive so placement is something to consider.

HOWEVER!!!! .... Without knowing the dimensions of your room I have no idea if the Synchrony One is the right speaker for you. Yes, it is a wonderful 2 channel speaker that sounds incredible, but if you're doing mainly movies - $5k for a pair of full range mains is a HUGELY disproportionate amount of your budget. It all depends on what you're trying to do and in what room.

As a side note, for 2 channel I would recommend the Parasound Halo line of Amp/Preamp for the Synchrony One. The Mac stuff is not budget appropriate for those speakers and is major overkill.

The internet direct brands can be hit or miss depending on the product. Some people love them, some hate them. You will find fanboys (or plants from internet direct manufacturers posing as satisfied customers) running rampant through forums of different brands. Long term durability on some of their products is generally unproven. However, the Emotvia brand OEMs some stuff for a few different companies.

Hope this helps!

 

[walter duque]

[
I like to listen at pretty high levels so I am planning to do seperates. But first, I must decide on the speakers so I can do some research on what it will take to make them sing. The PSB Synch 1's were behind a $8,000 McIntosh amplifier... It was like an other-worldly experience but that is a crazy amount of cash for me to drop on an amplifier. Can I do them justice with a good preamp and amplifier for under $4,000? What are some more modestly priced, but quality sound amplifiers to drive those synchrony ones? I don't want it to start shutting down and blowing tweeters etc.. when I rock out.

I auditioned the PSB Synch 1's and to me that's not a speaker that could rock out. Don't get me wrong, they are great speakers, but not for my listening habits. But than again I like to pop a sheetrock screw now and then.

 

[jinjuku]

Revel F52

I'm currently trying to decide on the front 3 of my first 5.1 setup worth mentioning. Speakers I've listened to so far have been many from KEF, PSB, and Focal. So far, I've liked the PSB Synchrony 1's the best. Can you tell me what you like about your Revel F52's, and any feedback you can give me in how they in your opinion compare to PSB Synchrony 1's would be greatly helpful in me deciding whether or not to make an 8 hour drive to audition some Revel F52s.

I have access to PSB Sychrony 1's about any time I want. A good customer/friend has a pair driven by an Emotiva XPA3 (L/C/R).

I had these beaut's for a 3 day weekend with the XPA3, NAD C272, Crown DC300A.

They did great will all three amps.

Don't get wrapped around the expensive amp axle. It's too much money and not enough return on investment. If you have $4k sitting idle then as much as I hate to say it look at the next level of speaker up. The Synchronies are PSB's top end (very nice top end). No I don't consider the Platinum a step up.

What is your total budget? What are you room dimensions (L/W/H) and layout. How much music vs movie.

 

[Beatmatcher247]

12K total. I want to eventually do 7.1 but I don't know if I"ll even get to 5.1 by the time i'm done with the front 3 and sub... might be 3.1 for a while.

That budget doesn't include any display as I'll make my 50" plasma do until I can afford to build my own home the way I want with a heavy emphasis on doing the home theatre room the right way. In the mean time I'm shopping around for my first home (existing build) so the room I'll ultimately end up having to make work is really up in the air still. A suitable room is a major consideration in my house shopping. I'm trying to make as educated a purchase as possible, so I'll be sure to run the room by you hardcores before I buy the house... and I'll be buying my gear after that.

Probably 70% music, 30% home theatre movie duty.

In Bismarck, ND, we have been pretty insulated from the real estate crash... prices keep going up and up and up... so is interest now. Right now you get the most bang for your buck buying existing build... but in about 5 years, I should be able to afford to build the way I'd like to. Its a little off topic, just trying to preanswer some expected questions.

 

[Docks]

Sounds like you are listening to some very nice speakers.
As an S8 owner I suggest you check out paradigms offerings too. How do you feel about F52's? I was heavily considering these speakers too. Focal makes a nice speaker, also check B&W. Perhaps the 803 series. Its hard not to be eager when purchasing such a nice speaker. Only word of advice is to take your time and to have fun! Oh! dont forget dynaudio!

 

[zumbo]

High-end electronic gear does not offer good return on the dollar.

What it does do well is hold it's resale value. That being said, you can be patient and buy favorable branded used electronics for a fraction of their retail price. If you buy wisely, you can always get 100%+ of your money back at any time.

I prefer new speakers. B&W 800 series certainly worthy of an audition. 800 series are the only model line I like from the brand these days.

 

[zumbo]

Something to experience:
http://www.vonschweikert.com/

 

[3db]

Revel F52

I'm currently trying to decide on the front 3 of my first 5.1 setup worth mentioning. Speakers I've listened to so far have been many from KEF, PSB, and Focal. So far, I've liked the PSB Synchrony 1's the best. Can you tell me what you like about your Revel F52's, and any feedback you can give me in how they in your opinion compare to PSB Synchrony 1's would be greatly helpful in me deciding whether or not to make an 8 hour drive to audition some Revel F52s.

I'm not a knowledgeable audiofile by any means. I will say a brief bit about what I like about the PSB Synchrony 1s. Neither tinny, nor chunky midrange, or overly bassy, the sound they produce doesn't sound like it's being blasted at you. It floats through the air and hangs thickly, and beautifully. They do though seem like they need a little help with the very bottom end of things... but this might be a how a neutral speaker should sound as in a lot of my past experiences with much lesser quality speakers, the bass was way exxaggerated and so was the high portion, while the midrange was completely neglected.

I did also really like some Focal 30th anniversary towers, but found them to be yet more lacking in the low end, and extremely focused with their sound disspersion. The sweet spot was very small with these.

I like to listen at pretty high levels so I am planning to do seperates. But first, I must decide on the speakers so I can do some research on what it will take to make them sing. The PSB Synch 1's were behind a $8,000 McIntosh amplifier... It was like an other-worldly experience but that is a crazy amount of cash for me to drop on an amplifier. Can I do them justice with a good preamp and amplifier for under $4,000? What are some more modestly priced, but quality sound amplifiers to drive those synchrony ones? I don't want it to start shutting down and blowing tweeters etc.. when I rock out.

Any other suggestions in this range on the speakers would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks guys.

Its a good idea to audition as many speakers as you can and you are certainly on the right track. One word of advice, are opinions matter exactly sh?t when it comes to your hearing. Hearing is very personal and subjective and no one hears with your ears and abilities but you. So trust your ears and the opinions you've formed because of your auditions. Its great to get suggestions on other speakers in case you hear something you like better than the PSBs.

The other thing that members here have been giving opinions on and I too am in aggreement with them is that high dollar electronics aren't necessarily a better performer because they cost more or look exciting. The fact is that amplifier response is linear well past the audio band so that in itself eliminates the "coloration" that audiophiles claim to hear. All you need to worry about is that the amp can easily drive into 4 ohms ( If I recall, that 4 ohm value will never go lower on this particular model from PSB. Its almost a constant impedance speaker.) and has enough power to spare so that trips inot high volumes won't cause it to strain causing amplifier clipping and eventually, speaker damage.

Tube amps do sound different than SS amps but level matched SS amps will sound identical to one another if the frequency response is flat and linear past the audio spectrum among the SS amps.

 

[GranteedEV]

If you don't mind another suggestion, I recommend getting an audition of the Seaton Sound Catalyst and Spark.

 

[Beatmatcher247]

You guys are great. I've definately got a lot more speakers to hear before I pull the trigger on these PSB's.

The dealer here in town offered me them up for 4200 a pair, which is a pretty fair price imo. I also asked him about the PSB Platinum T6/8's, he said the kind of music I listen to wouldn't be a good match, and as far as being an upgrade to the Synchrony ones, he said he really didn't consider them an upgrade. I appreciate that kind of honesty from a dealer. In my experience, it's hard to find anyone in the sales business that will tell you more expensive isn't better when it comes to the gear they sell.

I really want to be sure to be happy with my purchase and hearing as much as that's out there as possible is the only way I can be sure.

If any of you think the music I listen to should have much bearing on what I'm looking at I'll describe it here briefly. I listen to a lot of Metalcore, Classic Rock, Electronic, Heavy Metal, Indie, some weird stuff with a lot of range to it such as Primus, Faith No More etc... good rap (underground cunning linguist style stuff, not mtv/bet rims and hos grill wearing talentless shitbags that record garbage that isn't worth the plastic it's printed on), some classical... Well I guess you could say I listen to a lot of just about everything. What really gets my ears salivating are guitar solos that are so complex and fast they make my nipples hard, haha. An example of one of my favorite solos of all time is on "Home to Me" by All That Remains. I really like Les Claypool of Primus bass guitar work too, so it needs to be accurate and fast on the low end. A lot of my material has shitty recording quality and I know that will be revealed on great speakers. I like some stuff in all it's gritty, not recorded in a studio goodness. hah.

Anyone in the North Dakota/Minnesota/Montana/SD Area with any Aperion Verus Grand, Seaton Sound, Revel F52s, or B&W 800 series speakers willing to demo them for me one of these weekends? Or Any dealers in these states care to respond here?

 

[GranteedEV]

if you're looking for auditions, and expansed info I highly recommend reading and posting in the dedicated avs forum threads on the brands, as you have a bit more volume in terms of people. just google the brand + avsforum

Genre is actually not a big deal according to Flord Toole/Sean Olive's research. Uniform power response, Flat on/off axis frequency response, and low distortion are what make great speakers, almost regardless of genre (except stuff which was mixed for poor speakers)

The reason I reccomend the seatons is that they've not only got great design but limitless dynamics and they're powered which takes care of finding the right amplification.

 

[zumbo]

I really like Les Claypool of Primus bass guitar work too, so it needs to be accurate and fast on the low end.

It's not blu-ray, but it's one of my favorite dvd's. My MB Quarts love it.

http://www.amazon.com/Primus-Hallucino-Genetics-Live-2004/dp/B00065YI34

 

[3db]

If any of you think the music I listen to should have much bearing on what I'm looking at I'll describe it here briefly. I listen to a lot of Metalcore, Classic Rock, Electronic, Heavy Metal, Indie, some weird stuff with a lot of range to it such as Primus, Faith No More etc... good rap (underground cunning linguist style stuff, not mtv/bet rims and hos grill wearing talentless shitbags that record garbage that isn't worth the plastic it's printed on), some classical... Well I guess you could say I listen to a lot of just about everything. What really gets my ears salivating are guitar solos that are so complex and fast they make my nipples hard, haha. An example of one of my favorite solos of all time is on "Home to Me" by All That Remains. I really like Les Claypool of Primus bass guitar work too, so it needs to be accurate and fast on the low end. A lot of my material has shitty recording quality and I know that will be revealed on great speakers. I like some stuff in all it's gritty, not recorded in a studio goodness. hah.

The genre of music played on a speaker should not matter if the speakers are of a solid design as GranteedEV eluded too. The Synchronies are a solid speaker by any measure and have garnered rave reviews across the industry.
The Synchronoes are dynamic as well which makes them well suited for HT appications as well as 2 channel listening.

 

[Beatmatcher247]

Wow, cool vid clips. I am going to have to definately see Primus live one of these days.

 

[Beatmatcher247]

Here's some shots of the room I'd be using for my music listening/home theatre duities in a house I'm considering purchasing. Any thoughts or concerns? I haven't went to see it yet but can get dimensions later. It seems there is plenty of information out there to aid me in building a new one from scratch, but I'm not really sure what to avoid and watch out for in an existing construction. It seems to have plenty of room to stand the speakers off the wall. I can drop those recessed can lights out for some across the way wire fishing too. What about the location of the stairway openings? and that dead space behind the viewing area.

 

[jostenmeat]

Here's some shots of the room I'd be using for my music listening/home theatre duities in a house I'm considering purchasing. Any thoughts or concerns? I haven't went to see it yet but can get dimensions later. It seems there is plenty of information out there to aid me in building a new one from scratch, but I'm not really sure what to avoid and watch out for in an existing construction. It seems to have plenty of room to stand the speakers off the wall. I can drop those recessed can lights out for some across the way wire fishing too. What about the location of the stairway openings? and that dead space behind the viewing area.

Whoever is showing you the tour will think you are totally weird, but I would advise clapping, shouting, singing, yelling to get an idea of the acoustics, and pay attention to slap echo at any offensive level.

The best situation would be a totally dedicated room where you can have your way with total light control- this is if you're truly very serious about HT. Then you get a PJ w/ acoustically transparent screen. Understandably, it may be impossible/difficult to make that happen, but it had to be said.

 

[walter duque]

To me that room looks like it could use JTR's and at least 2 subs. I think they would take care of all your needs.
http://jtrspeakers.com/home-audio/triple-8ht/

 

[Beatmatcher247]

Whoever is showing you the tour will think you are totally weird, but I would advise clapping, shouting, singing, yelling to get an idea of the acoustics, and pay attention to slap echo at any offensive level.

The best situation would be a totally dedicated room where you can have your way with total light control- this is if you're truly very serious about HT. Then you get a PJ w/ acoustically transparent screen. Understandably, it may be impossible/difficult to make that happen, but it had to be said.

My realtor would probably try to have me committed, hah. Maybe I'll ask her if I can be alone with the house for a while . Looking to build a great foundation: speakers, preamp, amplifiers, higher end blu-ray player, to tide me over until I can do a completely dedicated room right. My builders going to hate me when I tell him what he has to do. lol.

That room would be hard to pressurize? Maybe I could build a wall to shorten it up a 8 feet or so and use it for a walkin closet/storage room, and take it down when I'm ready to move on to my custom built home in a few years.