AR 4x and EPI 100's

[thiptoman]

Can any one who has lived with these speakers describe the tonal properties of each.Which is the most accurate system in regards to frequency response and natural sounding reproduction? I realize that the AR4x speakers are really old but how would they compare to modern systems as far as sound quality is concerned?

[Guest rickcee]

Hi Well, first the EPI 100 was one of the best $100. each speakers. ever. Two steps better than AR 4. Had a brighter sound than AR , etc. Both EPI and AR had cheesy foam surround that rots after 15 -20 years. ( o.k. back then they probably didn't realize ). Modern speakers - price wise ? Not many 20 " speakers being sold these days (trad. bookshelf ) especially real wood veneer. Polk RT 55 , Cambridge Newton M 80 both about $500. a pair. JBL has a similar size that got exce. review in 'stereophile' mag, forget the name. S 38 or something. 8 " 3 way, about $400. Bose has the bookshelf 301 for about $320. pr.-both vinyl. Madisound has cygnet at $400. per pair for a kit - 8" two way, real wood finish. For $100. each ? ? nowadays thats inexpensive, smaller 6" two way, give up some lowish bass and quality of finish but otherwise fine. enjoy

[Guest rickcee]

Hi I might suggest - IF you're just getting into 'classic high fi' check for - Dynaco A25 spks - (about $120 - 180. pr. on E BAY )similar quality to EPI, but with real rubber bass surrounds, no deterioration. two others - the KLH 17 which has sound similar to AR 4 , but one of nicest looking cabinets (I like the taller proportions. plus excel. veneer - cloth surrounds last much longer than AR,EPI , Advent foam.) Third - ADS made audiophile quality bookshelf spks in the mid '80 's. Expensive now (holding near list price on E BAY ) very high q. sound and style.