NapoleonDynamite Posted November 30, 2006 Posted November 30, 2006 Hi there, I've managed to finally find some time to write up a review of some speakers I purchased a few months ago. As the first step of upgrading my HT, I shopped around for a receiver and a 5.1 speaker set. After some shopping around I ended up purchasing a Harman Kardon AVR235 and a HKTS8 satellite speakers with subwoofer. Moving to this package was a massive improvement over what I had before (dodgy Sony stereo setup). I was very pleased with my purchase, however I felt the sound was still lacking something. I certainly noticed the satelite speakers were a little on the thin side for music. I decided to go shopping for some new front speakers, after much testing and listening I went with the Energy C500's, and I also decided to get the matching Energy CC100 speaker also. The specifications in brief: * 8ohms * Amp power up to 150W * 35Hz-20kHz +/- 3db * 1" aluminium dome * Dual 6.5" fiberglass cones I won't bother rattling more figures, if you want, please check out the official Energy website, for this stuff. I can't really compare the speakers with other comparative models, post-purchase in my existing setup, however during my selection process I checked out speakers from Jamo, Paradigm, Jensen, Richter and Whaferdale to name a few. Some were very good, some not so good, in the end (after much re-listening of my narrowed down field) I had to make a choice and went with the Energy speakers. Setting them up with my existing setup, I am still extremely happy now! I run these Energy speakers with 2 HK satellite speakers for my rears (using the HK speaker stands). I'll look to replace the rears one-day but for my current setup, I'm happy with them. For movies, these Energy speakers are absolutely brilliant, clear, crisp, loud and pack punch! An absolute joy. Glad I got that centre speaker! For music, I think they are just absolutely fantastic - again the sound has so much clear presence with plenty of bass (but not toooo much). I listen to a wide range of music, but primarily listen to electronic music, so I expect some decent bass, but at the same time not too much (I want more clarity if anything). This is what I love about these speakers for my ears, I think they're great. Listening to music in just stereo is fantastic. I've gone out and bought a CD player (HK HD970), because I'm listening to music a lot more with the HT setup now. I'd certainly look to get the matching rear speakers when I have more cash and a need (there's always a need [want]! ), but for the moment I think this setup is more than adequate for my apartment lounge-room. These things are loud, but when turned up, they're sooo clear (I think my whole apartment complex, notice this too ). I think my AVR235 handles them pretty easily, I don't need to push the receiver too hard to get a decent amount of volume. The Energy C500 front speakers retail for around $1700, with the CC100 centre speaker retailing for around $600. Asthetics, I went with the Black Ash finish, with the glossy piano black base. In conclusion, these are fantastic speakers. I don't regret buying them in any way. Absolutely love them. If you're considering spending money around the above price point, check these out! The official website is; http://www.energy-speakers.com Thanks! Ray.
Recommended Posts