Great video. Love your Klipsch enthusiasm! I listened to some Forte’s a couple years ago. Ultimately, I ended up with Cornwall iv’s!! I LOVE THEM. Especially because they’re BIG with BIG sound. Thanks.
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog Yes, these make more low end when 3 or more feet from the wall. I have no restrictions here, so they are out in the room, thunderous low end hit !
Thank you for this presentation! I am a former Klipschorn owner of 14 years (1968 vintage). I drifted away, sold them when I fell in love with the new Martin Logan electrostatics I auditioned at my local high end audio dealer. HOWEVER, I went back to my local dealer and WITHOUT HEARING the Forte 4's, I bought a pair and yes, they are the distressed OAK with those lovely LAMBS WOOL grills ❤. They are paired with a Willsenton R8 fitted with EL34 finals. It is very cool to have electrostatics AND horns next to each other in my dedicated 18x24' space. The newest Forte was the right choice!! And so you have found this out for yourself! Congrats, and thanks again!
I've been a total Klipsch fan since about '81... I was a poor and ignorant high school student, into hifi, was in a high-end audio store when an "adult" audiophile demoed some Klipshorns with some Jazz.... I just sat there stunned. I hadn't heard anything like it before. I will own some someday, when have the room for them.
I have the original Fortes. I bought them in 1987. I rebuilt the crossovers using caps from Crites. I also replaced the tweeter diaphragms, put felt inside the tweeter horns and dynamat outside the midrange horns. I absolutely love them. They are my forever speakers. I am definately a Klipsch fan. I've heard Lascalas, Cornwallis, Belle Klipsch and even the Jubilees (in addition to lots of other hi end brands). They are all nice, but I still love going back to my somewhat treated living room and listening to my Fortes!
Nothing better than Klipsh... Total package... Takes me back to the sound of 80's bass rocking, high volume clarity and excellent treble... Images like nothing out there...❤
My father-in-law is a Klipsch lover. and has (among others) La Scalas and Forte IIs. He recognizes my passion for audio and has promised that my name is on the Fortes. He would give me the La Scalas but, much like our fearless presenter, my house can not accommodate them. Needless to say, I look forward to the "Great Downsizing" when I am able to slot them into my main listening set-up. Whether the newer series sound better or not, I am sure I will love them as they deserve to be loved.
I have the original Forte, and absolutely love them. I would like to get the IV’s, but I’m not in a position to do so right now. Maybe if I stopped buying electronics and cables and vinyl for a bit, I could justify it. I’m glad to hear that they are your forever speakers
It sounds weird but some of my favorite music to listen to on Klipsch speakers is Infected Mushroom. Their music is so complex and tactile you can literally feel it hit you in the face. Horn loaded speakers are really the only things that can truly present that type of music and its a pretty unreal experience. "Never Mind" is one of my favorite tracks. Its not for everyone but its a fun experience with speakers that can actually keep up with all the layers and samples. Lindsey Stirling is pretty crazy cranked up too on my LaScalas.
I have been a Klipsch fan since 1972 with my first pair of Cornwalls with Crown IC electronics - now fast forward & today my Klipsch Forte-4 speakers & McIntosh MA352 take me back in time. Absolutely FANTASTIC system. I strongly recommend you demo this pairing, it will take your Fortes to the next level. KEEP ON ROCKIN !
I totally get the "I'm still searching for that sound again" sentiment. In college in the mid - late 70's I had built cabinets for 12" Altecs that had horn tweeters that sat on top. Nothing has matched their sound since. Now I'm thinking it was the memories of cranking tunes outside on big grass lawns with a keg of beer, a bushel of oysters, throwing the Frisbee with friends and smiling at the coeds in cut off shorts walking by that made those Altecs sound so amazing. Perhaps I'm not chasing a lost sound, but rather the youth of my past? (My hearing was better back then too. Lol)
I have the Heresy IV’s and Sunfire sub They will never leave:) also one of the best things I’ve ever bought with my own money. I used to be a never Klipsch guy. To think I hesitated
Those look amazing speakers. Sorry to hear that you're feeling poorly, my friend, and I wish you a full and speedy recovery. Until I win the lottery, my SVS Ultra Bookshelf speakers are my 'forever' speakers. I really enjoyed your audio equipment journey. Very interesting to see how you progressed. You shouldn't regret your decisions, you may rue your actions, but love where you are today and appreciate that all those past possessions got you to where you are today. Thank you so much for sharing. Stay well, Sir.
I've always been a Klipsch fan myself. Like you, I've owned many sets of loudspeakers over the years, but first caught the Klipsch bug when I stopped by a friends house and listened to Rush 2112 on his KG4's. That was many years ago, and I still remember it like it was yesterday. A couple years later I bought those same speakers from him and still have them today. Later while living in a small apartment I picked up a set of the RP600M's. For the size and money I still say is one of the best bargains out there, those little speakers still amaze me every time I listen to them. Nowadays I have what I would consider my forever speakers in a set of Klipsch Quartets with the crites upgrades. I guess they are sorta like distant cousins to your Fortes. I can't see ever selling these. I'm really looking forward to plugging them into my Marantz 2325 once it completes it's restoration. I have a good feeling about that pairing. We will see!
This will make you feel better… I worked for a top clips dealer in the 90s. The current version of the Forte was the series 2. We had the Cornwalls and the Klipschorns and the Heresey’s. The Khornsbmay have been the best in a really huge room, but for most humans, I thought the Forte’s were the sweet spot in the whole line. I felt that it was smoother than either the Cornwall or the Khorn through the midband And had the best base extension. The khorns might go as deep in a different way in the right room… But that’s one hell of a room. I’ve heard a ton of gear, and I couldn’t think of a better speaker for you. Based on your listening preferences. Relax, rejoice and enjoy.
Thanks for that information!!! Get positive reinforcement always helps when you drop a few bucks on something! I actually had the "green light" to go with the Cornwallis, but I still settled on the Fortes. Maybe it was the name, or the slender form-factor, or maybe the cool-as-hell giant passive radiator!!!! I'll never really know!
The Forte IV is smoother as well because Klipsch finally let Roy Delgado put in his more modern horns he developed from their pro line. Klipsch held for a long time the heritage series had to have the old style horns and are finally coming around to allowing for more modern updates which is really good to see.
My forever speakers is the Electro Voice Aristocrat. I do have others but, my Dad bought & built this pair in around 1957. I have had to repair some tears in the paper cones. They still sound great and are very efficient.
Had to play your intro for my wife, when you said you love speakers. I told her, ‘See I’m not the only one.’ My wife and kids are always teasing me when I’m watching You Tube, they know I’m watching videos about speakers. Why? Because I love speakers! I have a pair of Forte IVs as well as a pair of Hersey IVs. Not sure which one I like best. Those Hersey’s are special too, they really rock out. Great Video. If you ever get to Texas, hit me up and we’ll go listen to some speakers! I’m also wanting a pair of La Scala’s but feel I just don’t have the space. But I’ll probably get them anyway. I’ve just got to own a pair 😂. Peace brother, happy listening. Great video
I purchased a Marantz 2215B back in 1983 along with a pair of Dynaco A25 speakers. They are in storage currently, but I bring them out on occasion to remember the sound.
I'm jealous. I may go hunt down a 2215b today at Living in Stereo in Austin! I do have a great sounding 2245 in house! I guess I should count my blessings! Thanks for watching!!!
This is the first video of yours that entered my algorithm…and now I’m a subscriber! I have my mini forte (RP600Ms) on diy floor level risers tilted up and they ALWAYS get my feet tapping. Klipsch is special!
I am pumped, today is 10/17/23 and this afternoon I will be at the local Klipsch store to test-drive the Forte IV's and the Cornwall IV speakers. LaScala 's are not in my budget.
My uncle has a pair of Heresy E's, he got them in Germany. I've not heard the Forte's, but had an opportunity to do some repairs to a local theater that uses Klipsch speakers. 3 LaScalas in front on top of Klipsch Dual 15 Horn subs and 4 Heresy's for surrounds. That is an experience! Sound is beautiful! Personally I have a pair of monster ElectroVoice Sentry 4's from 1975. They are like LaScalas, but a little smoother in the midrange and have 2x 12's instead of a 15" woofer.
I never would have guessed a pair of Klipsch could be my forever speaker, even though I had a pair of Heresy IIIs I liked, but for my 40th birthday my Dad got me a pair of Forte IVs and boy am I glad he did! I love them. I listen to all types of music and they do justice to everything in my opinion.
Loved the Fortes since I first heard them in the late 80s. Budget limits at the time led me to get the Cerwin Vega D-9s instead and I still wish I'd kept those every day. Still have my 601s from 86 but seriously miss the Vegas as the set of Anthems i have are just WAY too much for where we live. Thanks for the trip down memory lane with that sweet nostalgia hit Bob. ...also just grabbed a rough sleeve but clean vinyl of Pros and Cons of Hitchhiking.
I'm on my way to analog USA, but this time together with my JVC. Or something like ' Tokyo I'm on my way, and with my old Toyota it's not so far away''' ...;-) These Forte's 'rock' ! I've listened to them often living oversees in Vancouver BC. My favored current gem. Klipsch speakers.
I love your excitement for Klipsch! I’ve never heard fortés, but I LOVE my 1978 Heresy’s. My wife calls them my unicorn speakers, because it took me so long to find the pair I wanted. Klipsch rules!
I have the Cornwall IVs and they’re great but so massive. I may buy a set of Forte IVs to compare or try to find a dealer who has both. But yeah, I totally agree the veneer is beautiful.
I'm a Klipsch fan boy. I have 3 pairs and a center channel. My "Forever" speakers were my DCM Time Window 1As. I bought them in 1984 for 900 bucks which we didn't have , but my wife insisted that I buy them. I had them for 34 years and gave them to my nephew because I didn't want to sell them to a stranger. LOL
I think you must be the first person I’ve heard on CZcams or maybe anywhere mention Toby speakers! It must’ve been sometime in the 80s and I lived in the Fort Worth area when I would visit Toby’s shop and listen and discuss speakers with him. He wasn’t very fond of Klipsch at all and would love to show how much better his speakers sounded than the Klipsch speakers he had in his show room which if I remember correctly, were either Cornwall or La Scalas. Before I owned my own pair of Klipsch speakers, I bought a pair of his tower transmission line unfinished speakers made out of MDF, which had a 6 x 9 full range speaker and a 1 inch tweeter. They were pretty good, but definitely no Klipsch. I grew up in high school in a high school band with a director who had worked at the Klipsch plant in Hope Arkansas during summer vacations and who knew Paul Klipsch personally - so I was already well acquainted with the Klipsch sound. And in our band hall we had anything from Klipsch corner horns to La Scalas at any given time. The first pair of Klipsch speakers I owned personally were KG4s that I bought in the late 80s. They never sounded quite right to me and I have always felt like I needed a three-way Klipsch speaker. Eventually, I bought a used pair of La Scalas and then later a used pair of Klipschorns. Sadly, I had to sell both eventually. But more recently, a few years ago, I bought a used pair of Heresy 1 and now more recently after buying and selling a pair of Cornwall 1 I bought a pair of Quartets. These quartets from 1996 are probably about as close to your Forte 4 as you can get. If you lived closer, I’d love for you to listen to them. I bet you’d notice how similar to your forte as they are. When I was a band director, I had a pair of Forte 1 installed in our band room. They sounded amazing! So I knew the Quartets would sound great too! And the best part is that all of this Klipsch goodness comes in at under $1000.
Thank you for sharing your passion for speakers throughout your life. I'm in the same boat, and I really related. I Watch a lot of CZcams speaker reviews, haven't heard anybody talk about their passion for speakers. It was a bit touching. Cheers!
Hey, Man! I appreciate that! I got hooked at a very young age! I wish I could listen to them all... though, I'm always glad I have the Klipsch Fortes to come home to!!! Thanks for watching!
I cannot be more in agreement with you!, I upgraded my Klipsch RP280F to the Klipsch Forte IVs around a year and a half ago, and I am in love with them. I have them paired with a PrimaLuna EVO400 poweramp and the sound is so realistic and truthful that you really think the band is right there in the rooms behind the speakers!!!
I'm running Forte II's with a refurbished 1959 Scott 299 tube amp. They are amazing and Ive had them for about 20 years and moved with them any times. The room characteristics really make a huge difference in how they sound. Adding an old Technics turntable from the 1980s next week. I'm hoping they are "forever" speakers.
Going back to 1980 my first set of Klispch were the Heresy Unfinished and I was in the Army in West Germany and those Heresy filled the room. I sold my Klispch and regretted it. My next set were the orginal Forte Cherry Finish. Traded them in for Bose . I have a pair of Paradigm Moniters which I love. Recently picked up Forte IV. Walnut and there beautiful. I live in Small Cottage out in Remote area and Forte does it . I have a soft spot for Heresy but Forte IV is a Step up . For the Price your right there. No regrets.
I bought a pair of original Fortes in 1987 and still have them, through a divorce, several moves, 3 or 4 amplifiers, the addition of KG4s as rear channel speakers... you get the idea. They are literally my "forever" speakers. I enjoy them as much today as I did when I unboxed them and hooked them up. They replaced Realistic Mach one speakers, and the difference made me get emotional. It demonstrated how really awful the Radio Shack speakers were, and how incredible the Fortes were (are!). I was a stupid 20 year old kid when I bought the Mach Ones, and 30 when I bought the Klipsch speakers. I'm 67 now, and have no plans whatsoever to buy anything else. The speakers will outlive me. I have Heresys playing as my garage stereo, and I used to have LaScalas when I DJ'ed for a few years in the 90's; I sold them 2 years ago, and even though I didn't use them anymore, (other than a few backyard parties at friend's or relative's houses) I miss having them.
I've refurbished many sets of klipsch. My first were forte II in the mid 80's. At one point I had two pairs of forte II with Crites upgrades. As satisfactory as they were, klipsch evolved the forte. The Forte IV are FAR superior to older models, including modified units. Klipsch addressed the shortcomings and polished them out. The Forte IV sound more realistic than the majority of expensive boutique speakers.
My feeling as well, but a lot of "purists" still dump on them! "Horn" for some is a four-letter word. I don't get it... the sound should speak for itself! Thanks for watching!
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog the worst part of that- they think everything sounds like the old metal horns. On top of that, bad setups ruin it for them. And of course, there are the die hard snobs that hate treble, hate bass and everything has to be soft and laid back. As a drummer, those laid back speakers don’t sound like drums. They are either gutless, rolled off or both. I don’t want cymbals that sound like they are being played under a towel. Real music is forward and has presence.
I LOVED those speakers!!! I'm always looking out for a good pair! Thanks for being a part of this new community! We're already finding stuff in common!
Missed the live but watched it this morning. Yeah these are on my short list. Maybe one day. Until then, my Polk R200’s will have to suffice. Get to feeling better and don’t be too hard on yourself. You are doing great. Looking forward to the next one.
I love mine too! Got them used for 3k but they're 600 to ship so 5k and free shipping for brand new is a tough call. Went through a Yamaha AS2200 and Decware Zen tube amp before settling on a Vincent class A hybrid to get the weighty sound I wanted out of them. They image perfectly and are the best of both worlds for transparency and dynamics! I also recently picked up a Marantz 2245 receiver and was amazed by the difference in bottom end when hitting the loudness button. Wonderful vintage piece but left channel is weak so probably needs a rebuild when I can get the funds.
That's the last confirmation I needed. I'll get a pair of Forte IV. I also considered Buchardt A10 or the Avantgarde Acoustic Colibri C2. I'll pair them with a Peachtree GAN1 and a Bluesound Node X. Maybe the amp/streamer changes until I get them, I wanted to add a turntable in the mix but also hook them up to my TV, not sure if that's a good idea.
I don't see why hooking them up for video sound wouldn't work. But I guess I'm a weird purist and only use my Fortes for music. I might do a second video on this to talk more about their sound, equipment I'm using, and how I have them set up! Good luck on your speaker journey... and thanks for watching!
My dream speakers are still in my possession. It's a pair of Magnepan SMGc planar magnetic speakers; I believe they were built in the 90's at some point. They are NOT super-efficient and lively in the way that Klipsch horn speakers are. However, if you place them in a medium-sized plus room, the dipole effect + the lack of coloration in the upper bass + the insane speed of the planar-magnetic panels- obviously driven with a powerful class AB amplifier, the resolution is just incredible. I would love to live with a set of high-end Klipsch's for a brief period, to see what it's about. I've almost pulled the trigger on the RP-600M II's a couple of times, but it just didn't justify the hype vs. their true horn speakers.
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog and if I understand correctly, a true horn uses a compression driver, whereas the RP-600M uses a waveguide-loaded conventional tweeter?
The best part for me is your mention of value. There are some speakers I recently ran across, which are about the same size, horn mid and tweeter, but almost twice the price! So the law of diminishing returns kicks in hard.
And you would be spending a bunch more cash on Subs for those LaScalas , IMO the Forte IV is well worth the Money and don't really need Subs to make the Sound all around Awesome! Great Video!
Glad to see you are up and running Bob! Another outstanding presentation. Speakers... I have drooled over speakers for years, and gear. But,I have been living out of a bag for so many years, left Detroit when I was 18 in the early 80's, and now finally settling down. I always wanted a pair of the big Klipsch, no room, no time, etc. I am finally slowing down, and found a very nice pair of Zu Omen Dirty Weekend speakers. I LOVE these things! And like Klipsch, Made in the USA! When you spoke of the hunt for the sound of your youth... I have been on that journey for the past few years and found it in a vintage 1970 Sansui 4000 stereo receiver, paired with the Zu's and our favorite Mofi StudioDeck, audio nirvana. I liked the Zu's so much, I called the guys in Utah and asked about upgrading to their latest, and what would they recommend for my particular room and gear. So, I have a new pair of Zu Dirty Weekend 6's coming with their Supreme upgrade. Hopefully that is it for awhile in regards to speakers... Just sold the KLH Model 5's... The Zu's are simply incredible, just like your Forte's. And funny you mentioned Blue Note Records, I just received the first copy of their "The Third Man-Blue Note 313 Series", It just came today, I believe it is the Donald Byrd, Electric Byrd along with Thad Jones in the series. I have their 180 gram Art Blakey Moanin' album and must say, these guys at Blue Note do not mess around. And best thing here, they are right here in the Detroit area where I live! For those of you that do not know, the 313 series is based upon the Detroit Jazz scene, 313 is the local Detroit area code. Very cool! Hey, thanks again Bob, the T-Shirts you sent are fantastic and good to see you are up and running making video! You take care.
Dude, thanks for taking the time to provide all this information! I have actually been thinking a lot about the ZU DW6 and I want to order a pair!!! I have no idea where to put them but they are on my hit list! Maybe someday, my channel will be popular enough that manufacturers will send me audition gear!!! ZU, are you seeing this? I'm also jonesing for those MoFi SourcePoint 8 or 10s. MoFi are you seeing this? Is that BNTP III MAN release mail order only?
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog I will drop the guys at Zu a note! See if we can get you a pair! The BNTP III MAN looks to be mail only right now. I ordered direct off the BN website. They released both albums on Aug 7th, and shipped immediately. I had mine on the 9th via FedEx.
I've had my main speakers for 17 years, Zingali Overture 4 floorstanders from Italy with their lovely Omniray Poplar Horns. They were the best part of £5k when new but no regrets. I'm now getting a bit restless and wondering about a change to my end game speakers. Problem is no idea what they are. They need to work with a 12.5 watt tube amp and a 215 watt solid state. Pure Audio Project might be the ones but Fyne Audio and Wharfedale have some contenders. Also my beautiful wife needs to look the wrong way for just long enough..
Love the Forte IV. Love my Vandersteen Model 2Ce Signature III a little more. Less $$ too. My forever speakers will be the Vandersteen Treo CTs. I regret selling my Klipsch KG 1.5. First serious speakers I bought post college. Had them for 30 years. I am getting some RP 600s to play with some low power tube amps. GET WELL MY MAN!
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog yeah I’ve seen skyfi audio in NJ sometimes has them. I tend to buy run down gear and restore it. My heresy pair were all faded and scratched and I sanded and stained them back to being presentable, and the hpm-40s I have I rebuilt the woofers. The vinyl Wrap has seen better days though on the pioneer’s.
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog I agree completely. Since they seem like they are staying in my living room I’m considering putting on a a new vinyl Wrap or doing a proper wood veneer.
Hey US of A. Nice channel. Awesome speakers. Instant sub. Ever since Andrew R’s review of the LA Scal., (brought him and Mrs. R to tears- I get it), I’m super intrigued. Retirement rig, with a 70th Anniversary Mc tube Amp/Pre, is the dream. With that…. 10:28 are we not going to talk about that integrated sexiness? And what could be glowing behind door #2? Guess we’ll have to stay tuned…Catch you down the road, you’re driving! 🍻
You are spot on when you say the Forte IV can be your forever speakers. Like you i have been around the block several times when it came to picking out speakers. That being said, after listening to several different brands i always come back to the Klipsch Heritage Series. I own the Klipsch Forte IV and have no regrets spending the $5000.00 on them. Any genre of music i throw at them , they sound great. Anyone out there that my be on the fence go and check out the Klipsch Heritage lineup of speakers, you won't be disappointed.
A buddy of mine bought a set of first generation Forte's and I loved them. But they have always been out of reach for me. Between kids in college, buying and selling homes, doctor's bills, I guess life in general, it's just never happened. I've almost just given up. And at 5 grand , man it's a stretch now. But I'm glad you enjoy yours. They are a really cool speaker.
I’m always shocked by the prices of new and used JBL/Klipsch speakers. The build quality is 40 years behind. The drivers don’t look exotic. The cabinets don’t seem very well dampened and yet they command a $5k sticker price. Can’t you just buy a pair of Ruark Templar speakers for under $800 online? On paper the Ruark seem way better. They have SEAS drivers.
Congratulations on finding your forever speakers! I have a pair of Forte I’s and absolutely love them. I rotate between them and JBL L100’s and I don’t see myself giving either of them up. Even the wife says I can’t get rid if them! I also do plan on customizing them to get that magnetic grill snap…
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog Sadly, I have not but I do hope to eventually. From what I’ve read, the differences between the first two are marginal. Even with the different mid horn. So that’s why I’m not exactly eager to but II’s. But then those were other people’s subjective impressions, so too may factors in play.
I have been to Hope. Got to visit the Klipsch Museum. Lots of historic interesting audiophile. My friend who I is living in Little Rock has a pair of Cornscalas, damn good!
The LaScala's are a little piece of audio magic that never get old but they are insanely large. The knock on them is lack of sub 50Hz bass but that is due to the short horn allowed by the design of the cabinet. Add in a true high efficiency music focused sub from the likes of Tekton or one of the M&K push pull designs and you'll never want for anything else. Unless you mess up and listen to a pair of Volti Audio Vittora and their custom matching sub which is just a highly refined and beautiful version of, yep, a LaScala. But the Forte IV is a worthy substitute. For me the Cronwall's don't offer enough of a jump up in performance to warrant the increased price. But for some they work well. For years I listened to the audiophile crowd saying horns speakers were garbage and Klipsch were doubly so. Most had never heard a Heritage line product or at least hadn't heard one since 1972 powered by whatever their college electrical engineering buddy could cobble together for an amp project. I've now heard hundreds of speakers in thousands of combinations (not all in my home, of course) and for $5000 you have the Forte's, the Tekton Double Impact, the Paradigm Founders 100F and pretty much nothing else that comes close. Sure, other speakers do bits and pieces better but for being immersed in as close to real sound as current tech allows and getting lost in music those are the only three that offer the experience at that price point. None would be considered by the snoot crowd as sophisticated enough or refined enough but put them behind an acoustically transparent screen, as I've witnessed at a friends old home theater company with the Klipsch, and the snoot audiophile sometimes refused to believe a Klipsch LaScala or Forte was what they were swooning over until the screen was raised.
Such a great report and affirmation on the sonic qualities and value of Klipsch! Thanks for all the info! I DID prefer the Fortes over the Cornwallis... plus the Cornwallis were not as aesthetically pleasing to me for whatever reason, and would have dominated my room. Thanks for participating in this new community!!!!!
Dang, that's so close to my Klipsch story it's scary, I went to buy the Forte IV'S last year, and auditioned along with the Cornwalls and Heresy's. For whatever the reason (the room, break in etc) the Heresy's appealed to me more, which really surprised me. So I have them, but swap those around and I feel exactly like you including the La Scala's. Realistically, the Cornwalls are a possibility, but since they all share the same tweeter and mid drivers, not sure it would be a big enough difference to justify?
I actually got the spousal "green light" for the Cornwall IVs but selected the Forte. I just thought the were better for my application and I liked the sound and form factor more! I also own some Heresy III Anniversary editions. I would love to here the 4th gen of those in my home! So cool!
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog Nice, funny how when given the green light for bigger speakers we went with what suited our ears better. Hope you're feeling better.
Cornwalls are for larger rooms where their bigger woofer on a really wide baffle (a key to their goodness) can throw a serious punch to your midsection at a greater listening distance.
Hey Bob. I have a pair of Forté IVs in the distressed oak with the Lambs Wool covers. That’s the only speaker the Wife approves of. I share your enthusiasm for the Forte’s! I also have a pair of 1982 model La Scala’s in a small guest bedroom that I love! They’re my Jazz speakers; hard to beat. I’m a tube amplifier guy and tubes paired with Heritage series Klipsch loud speakers are hard to beat. I’m in the Austin area. If you’d ever like to come by and listen the the La Scala’s, hit me up. I’m new to your channel, but loving that there’s a local guy to watch now. I’m happy to support and Best of luck!
Thanks, Samuel! You're a lucky guy, for sure! You might st have a big guest bedroom! If I put La Scalas in my guest room, I'd be sleeping on top of them! What part of town are you in? Do you listen to my morning show on 93.7?
I’m out in Manor. Always looking for music loving buddies. I’m in complete agreement with you about the Tone Poet Jazz Bluenote Vinyl. I’ve been slowly collecting them lately and LOVING the way they sound! I’ve been traveling quite a bit out of market so I haven’t been a listener for a while now, but definitely a fan! When my kiddos were little, we listened to the Dudley and Bob Show every morning on the way to school. You’re a member of my family 😊
I’ve used a few different tube amplifiers, all with favorable results. Originally the PrimaLuna Evo 400 integrated was driving them- great result! I recently hooked up a mono-block pair of Decware Zen Triode power amps at only 2.7 watts with a PS Audio Stellar Gain Cell DAC/Preamplifier- amazing at moderate to low volume, but lacking a bit of power. Both setups were enjoyable to me. Currently I have the PS Audio Stellar Gaincell connected to an Audio Research VT100 amplifier. This has been my favorite combination so far! 100 watts of tube power. The Forte’s really perform their best for me in this setup.
Hi thanks for your take on the Klipsch Forte 4 which are on my whishlist as well as the technics G700 which I noticed, and as much as I drool for the R700 or higher model R1000 i'm also hesitant as I mostly spinning vinyl vs this analog to digitizing amp digital class D versus analoge is something most audiophiles criticize For what I understand the Technics Jeno engine does with the analog signal such as of vinyl is jitter elimination noise shaping optimisation and a phono stage that uses digital processing for a more accurate perfomance. But If I may quote some phrases from Bernie Grundman from the 45 RPM audiophile podcast with Chad Kassem and Ryan Smith. That by digitize EQ and processing you manipulate the signal losing the integrity of the instruments and ambience everthing sounds cleaner but that's because you lose something. Excuus me for talking for the most part about the technics but could you please share your experience with the technics and, in particular with the Klipsch Forte 4, or maybe in your next video.
Listen, I don't have the ears of those old guys😅 but for me the phono section and the headphone section of my SU-G700 are two of its greatest assets! Way better than they have to be for my ears. I use a MoFi Studiodeck with Mastertracker cart straight into the phono section of the Technics and out to the Fortes... and BOOM! No complaints. It's the right combo for me! I can't even imagine how good the 1000 is when the 700 gen 1 can do what it's doing for me! And let's not even bring up those meters!!!! Great discussion! Thanks!
I've always loved "BIG". In 1974 a friend had a pair of Voice of the Theater speakers in his basement. I fell in love with big and horns. I prefer listening to the music rather than having "Party's" and annoying the neighbors. Loud, sometimes yes, but not all the time. I enjoy jazz, classic rock, Blues, classical music, acoustic guitar and of course vocals, both male and female. Even "Space Music". Not much in reviews on classical music, which I like also. No tubes. I am using a DENON AV amp with 95 wats per channel and presently, just for 2 channel listening. I plan to stay with this amp. I would love to have a pair of La Scala's. However, as you pointed out,,,,,, $$$$$ Money is presently An Object. I'm wondering if these Forte IV's would work for my needs? Thoughts? I enjoyed your review and comments. Best Regards
Dude you've heard of TOBY speakers?!?! I'm from Fort Worth and my friend's dad got him one for his car back in high school. Man we used to ride around with it turned up and those things kick!
Don't know if you noticed, but there is a Heresy III Anniversary model right above my head in this video! They are serving duty in my home Jazz Kissa style bar! You can watch the video on how I built it here on my channel! Thanks for watching and we will see you back here I hope!
Awsome review I had kg3 kg4 and kliptch la scalas but my final speakers is now cerwin vega sl15 and it's my taste I haven't heard anything like my speakers Whats your amps
Sonny Rollins Way Out West vinyl album in the top right. Only thing better would have been Miles. If you haven’t auditioned that album, I highly recommend.
Late to the party, Bob. Hope feel better soon. I’ve had ADS L710 since 1979. I still love them. However, recently I purchased MoFi SourcePoint 8. They’re pretty great too. They won’t be with me for 44 years mainly because I’ll be far past my program’s end 😂. Btw, I’ve heard LaScala in 1973. My buddy bought them and let’s say I went there a few times.
I had a buddy I would often visit in my twenties who had a monster Mac system with 2 pairs of giant McIntosh speakers. Stacked, top level inverted! Never heard The Wall sound better! Thanks for watch and keep listening!
I'll see your Big Box Joy and raise you some Big Horn Joy. As I'm blessed with a barn with a big and fun man cave loft, I've assembled a system around a pair of old LaScala commercial bass cabinets, but the centerpieces of the system are a pair of EV "white whale" midrange horns that are 38" wide and croon like Diana Krall herself. Also love my Forte 1s in the house, but there's no comparison.
Great vid, but more importantly, are those excellent specs JMM Torino or Kaine. I have a pair of Kaines in my collection, but the Torino are a little too wide for my face.
Love that! I have the Enzo too as my prescription sunglasses. I saw Jeff Goldbloom in a pair a few years ago and spent a day scouring the web trying to figure out what they were. Highest quality frames I've ever owned.@@UnitedStatesofAnalog
If you want bass quality and not just quantity, you need a large, well braced box or better yet a large bass horn. Servo subs with massive class D power can go deep and loud but don't have the tight, dynamic slam. BTW I've had the illness which cannot be named twice and neither time was any worse than the flu.
Can we have them both????????? I was so tempted. I store I bought the Klipsch from was also a JBL dealer and they had the anniversary model too. Oh man! Those orange grills! Don't get me started!
Nice video, U.S. of A. - I’m looking at these myself, five bills is a lot of dough. Also looking at the Zu DW6, also made in ‘merica but diff tech, nice finishes though. My RP-600Ms are just missing ‘something’ I cant put the pointer on…. maybe that’s just part of the audiophile journey or maybe I’ll find that forever speaker like you. Rock ON!
Love my Zu's, just ordered a new pair of their DW6 Supremes, should be here in a week or two at the latest, still burning in over in Utah. Paired with a vintage Sansui 4000 receiver, something you must experience to believe. A few videos of this combo on YT... I through a few pieces of gear at the Zu's, Parasound was good, Denafrips was like a wet blanket over the speakers. Sansui in that 1967 - 1972 line up, audio Nirvana. I have two Sansui units, the 2000 and 4000, both have an airy midrange with a very tube like sound, then the bass... I can rattle the cabinet in my dining room with this combo, no subs required. Just something to chew on. The Zu's do go very low. I cannot wait to compare my Omen DW's with the new DW 6's. Going to have a shootout!
I previously had the Klipsch RP600M for 2 really long years and hated them. I’ll tell you what’s wrong: the midrange. The midrange is the heart of the music and the RP600M just don’t cut it. Just imagine John Mayer performing behind a closed door with a Fisherprice plastic junk guitar. This is what the RP600M feels like. I upgraded to the Closer Acoustics OGY last year and OMG! The OGY just humiliate the RP600M. The bass is faster and tighter. The midrange and treble are flawless. Even the KEF LS60 lose to the OGY in terms of midrange and treble. Imaging and soundstage on the OGY is in a different league because single driver speakers do it best. Yeah the OGY aren’t cheap at nearly $2k. So if you’re tight on cash, the Q Acoustics 3020 run circles around the Klipsch RP600M and they cost less. The 3020 have a forward midrange and slightly boomy bass with a polite treble. Anyways, my 2 cents. I’m angry at Steve Guttenburg for overhyping the Klipsch RP600M. They’re just blah.
I have 600m gen 1s as well! Different beast. Any bookshelf model sounds "thin" to me when I sit down and get into the Fortes! It's a whole different listening experience! I'm not monitoring the sound, I'm feeling it with the Fortes! Funny that you mention the DW6! I've been thinking about those a lot! I might order them... but where would I put them! Maybe ZU is watching and will let me audition a pair!!!! ZU? Hit me up! Yeah... I'm ready to jettison my 600m gen 1s AND my LS50 Metas... they just ain't cutting' it no more!!!!
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog From my limited experience, Q Acoustics and Dynaudio bookshelf speakers sound rather “thick”. You’ll get a lot of mid bass and it will bleed slightly into the midrange (losing some clarity for warmth). It’s not a bad way to go, especially with rock music. For deep bass you’ll need a bigger box or a sub. But for acoustic music you’ll notice that vocals and guitars sound a little “woolly”.
You can find a pair of forte IV open box or B stock for under $3800. I bought a pair of B stock, cherry, they are fantastic at 3750. free shipping. They sound great. I also use a 30 band equalizer to fine-tune them. Playing with placement in your space is important. Synergy of room and system is critical.
Do Know Home Theater 🎥 Speakers Set Up ??? I Have Klipsch Speakers Too, But I'm Wondering About 🤔 The Kef R11 Meta Speakers, Svs Speakers, Arendal 1723 Speakers Kef's R3 Meta Speakers ( FOR MOVIE 🎬 MUSIC 🎶 GAMING) How 🤔 Does The Klipsch Comparison To These Mentioned?????
I have some LS50 meta bookshelves. The can be detail revealing but leave me a little cold in the dynamics department! They just don't punch. Need a good sub!
Awesome review! Do you have any thoughts on the Heresy IV? I can’t get away with the Forte at this point, but might be able to get the Heresy to work in my shared listening/family space
Some prefer the Heresy IV over the Forte. I've only heard them in a showroom. Definitely a different form factor as they don't stand as tall. It is widely reported that the IVs are a big improvement over the IIIs. I believe that to be true! I use my IIIs daily and can offer no complaints! They will last a lifetime!
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog thanks for taking the time to respond! I haven’t had a chance to hear any of the heritage models or the vintage Klipsch. I gotta fix that soon. They seem like they’d be right up my alley.
I'm in Austin! Toby had a very small storefront next to a Landon at off off Speedway (blocks north of the University of Texas). I had small 2-way bookshelves! Really f-ing basic! Can't find a pic online anywhere!
The people have spoken and they love the 8000F. You have chosen well, my friend! I have not compared the sound. I have had other Klipsch floorstanders, but I just wanted that vintage vibe!
Great video. Love your Klipsch enthusiasm! I listened to some Forte’s a couple years ago. Ultimately, I ended up with Cornwall iv’s!! I LOVE THEM. Especially because they’re BIG with BIG sound. Thanks.
Almost took that road when it was offered! But ultimately Fortes are in my story! Thanks for watching! See you back here!
I'm at like 13 x 19 and they sound really good to me. I wish I could push them more into the room, but...
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog Yes, these make more low end when 3 or more feet from the wall. I have no restrictions here, so they are out in the room, thunderous low end hit !
Thank you for this presentation! I am a former Klipschorn owner of 14 years (1968 vintage). I drifted away, sold them when I fell in love with the new Martin Logan electrostatics I auditioned at my local high end audio dealer. HOWEVER, I went back to my local dealer and WITHOUT HEARING the Forte 4's, I bought a pair and yes, they are the distressed OAK with those lovely LAMBS WOOL grills ❤.
They are paired with a Willsenton R8 fitted with EL34 finals. It is very cool to have electrostatics AND horns next to each other in my dedicated 18x24' space. The newest Forte was the right choice!! And so you have found this out for yourself! Congrats, and thanks again!
Such a cool audio journey! Congrats! Celebrate your victory!
I've been a total Klipsch fan since about '81... I was a poor and ignorant high school student, into hifi, was in a high-end audio store when an "adult" audiophile demoed some Klipshorns with some Jazz.... I just sat there stunned. I hadn't heard anything like it before. I will own some someday, when have the room for them.
Space and $$$ can be a barrier to entry... but with any luck, you'll get there!!! Dream on, Aerosmith! Thanks for watching!
I have the original Fortes. I bought them in 1987. I rebuilt the crossovers using caps from Crites. I also replaced the tweeter diaphragms, put felt inside the tweeter horns and dynamat outside the midrange horns. I absolutely love them. They are my forever speakers. I am definately a Klipsch fan. I've heard Lascalas, Cornwallis, Belle Klipsch and even the Jubilees (in addition to lots of other hi end brands). They are all nice, but I still love going back to my somewhat treated living room and listening to my Fortes!
Fortes are a nice blend of manageable size and La Scala-style sound.
Nothing better than Klipsh... Total package... Takes me back to the sound of 80's bass rocking, high volume clarity and excellent treble... Images like nothing out there...❤
Some of my observations as well. I want reality... but I also want the sound to hit me in the chest!
Got & still have my Fortes since 86..Replaced my SpeakerLab Super 7’s..
😅😅😅sorry. Did you drive a car with the 80s Standard?
My father-in-law is a Klipsch lover. and has (among others) La Scalas and Forte IIs. He recognizes my passion for audio and has promised that my name is on the Fortes. He would give me the La Scalas but, much like our fearless presenter, my house can not accommodate them. Needless to say, I look forward to the "Great Downsizing" when I am able to slot them into my main listening set-up. Whether the newer series sound better or not, I am sure I will love them as they deserve to be loved.
You'll still be sitting pretty someday!
I have the original Forte, and absolutely love them. I would like to get the IV’s, but I’m not in a position to do so right now. Maybe if I stopped buying electronics and cables and vinyl for a bit, I could justify it. I’m glad to hear that they are your forever speakers
For now😂
It sounds weird but some of my favorite music to listen to on Klipsch speakers is Infected Mushroom. Their music is so complex and tactile you can literally feel it hit you in the face. Horn loaded speakers are really the only things that can truly present that type of music and its a pretty unreal experience. "Never Mind" is one of my favorite tracks. Its not for everyone but its a fun experience with speakers that can actually keep up with all the layers and samples. Lindsey Stirling is pretty crazy cranked up too on my LaScalas.
I'll check that out! Always looking for new musical experiences! Thanks for watching and commenting!
I have been a Klipsch fan since 1972 with my first pair of Cornwalls with Crown IC electronics - now fast forward & today my Klipsch Forte-4 speakers & McIntosh MA352 take me back in time. Absolutely FANTASTIC system. I strongly recommend you demo this pairing, it will take your Fortes to the next level.
KEEP ON ROCKIN !
I totally get the "I'm still searching for that sound again" sentiment. In college in the mid - late 70's I had built cabinets for 12" Altecs that had horn tweeters that sat on top. Nothing has matched their sound since. Now I'm thinking it was the memories of cranking tunes outside on big grass lawns with a keg of beer, a bushel of oysters, throwing the Frisbee with friends and smiling at the coeds in cut off shorts walking by that made those Altecs sound so amazing. Perhaps I'm not chasing a lost sound, but rather the youth of my past? (My hearing was better back then too. Lol)
Interesting point about "young ears!" Maybe that's what we're searching for!
I have the Heresy IV’s and Sunfire sub
They will never leave:) also one of the best things I’ve ever bought with my own money. I used to be a never Klipsch guy.
To think I hesitated
The lambs wool grills are really beautiful
I know, Right!!!!!
This was the 1st video of yours I have ever seen. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Your presentation was great! Thanks!🍺
Thanks! Please come back!
Those look amazing speakers. Sorry to hear that you're feeling poorly, my friend, and I wish you a full and speedy recovery. Until I win the lottery, my SVS Ultra Bookshelf speakers are my 'forever' speakers. I really enjoyed your audio equipment journey. Very interesting to see how you progressed. You shouldn't regret your decisions, you may rue your actions, but love where you are today and appreciate that all those past possessions got you to where you are today. Thank you so much for sharing. Stay well, Sir.
Thanks, Simon! You are wise beyond your years! Thanks for your constant support and encouragement!
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog You're to kind my friend. Thank you so much for your kind comments.
I've always been a Klipsch fan myself. Like you, I've owned many sets of loudspeakers over the years, but first caught the Klipsch bug when I stopped by a friends house and listened to Rush 2112 on his KG4's. That was many years ago, and I still remember it like it was yesterday. A couple years later I bought those same speakers from him and still have them today. Later while living in a small apartment I picked up a set of the RP600M's. For the size and money I still say is one of the best bargains out there, those little speakers still amaze me every time I listen to them. Nowadays I have what I would consider my forever speakers in a set of Klipsch Quartets with the crites upgrades. I guess they are sorta like distant cousins to your Fortes. I can't see ever selling these. I'm really looking forward to plugging them into my Marantz 2325 once it completes it's restoration. I have a good feeling about that pairing. We will see!
This will make you feel better… I worked for a top clips dealer in the 90s. The current version of the Forte was the series 2. We had the Cornwalls and the Klipschorns and the Heresey’s. The Khornsbmay have been the best in a really huge room, but for most humans, I thought the Forte’s were the sweet spot in the whole line. I felt that it was smoother than either the Cornwall or the Khorn through the midband And had the best base extension. The khorns might go as deep in a different way in the right room… But that’s one hell of a room. I’ve heard a ton of gear, and I couldn’t think of a better speaker for you. Based on your listening preferences. Relax, rejoice and enjoy.
Thanks for that information!!! Get positive reinforcement always helps when you drop a few bucks on something! I actually had the "green light" to go with the Cornwallis, but I still settled on the Fortes. Maybe it was the name, or the slender form-factor, or maybe the cool-as-hell giant passive radiator!!!! I'll never really know!
The Forte IV is smoother as well because Klipsch finally let Roy Delgado put in his more modern horns he developed from their pro line. Klipsch held for a long time the heritage series had to have the old style horns and are finally coming around to allowing for more modern updates which is really good to see.
My forever speakers is the Electro Voice Aristocrat. I do have others but, my Dad bought & built this pair in around 1957. I have had to repair some tears in the paper cones. They still sound great and are very efficient.
Those Aristocrats probably look way cooler than my EV Sentry IVs! Love the EV sound!
Had to play your intro for my wife, when you said you love speakers. I told her, ‘See I’m not the only one.’ My wife and kids are always teasing me when I’m watching You Tube, they know I’m watching videos about speakers. Why? Because I love speakers! I have a pair of Forte IVs as well as a pair of Hersey IVs. Not sure which one I like best. Those Hersey’s are special too, they really rock out. Great Video. If you ever get to Texas, hit me up and we’ll go listen to some speakers! I’m also wanting a pair of La Scala’s but feel I just don’t have the space. But I’ll probably get them anyway. I’ve just got to own a pair 😂. Peace brother, happy listening. Great video
You're a Klipsch fanboy! BTW I like e in Texas! Hook 'em!
I purchased a Marantz 2215B back in 1983 along with a pair of Dynaco A25 speakers. They are in storage currently, but I bring them out on occasion to remember the sound.
I'm jealous. I may go hunt down a 2215b today at Living in Stereo in Austin! I do have a great sounding 2245 in house! I guess I should count my blessings! Thanks for watching!!!
I just bought a pair of Klipsch Cornwall II (1979) for $500!
Just listening to them today.
Huge improvement to my stereo.
WHAT A BUY!!! That kind of thing never happens to me!!!
This is the first video of yours that entered my algorithm…and now I’m a subscriber! I have my mini forte (RP600Ms) on diy floor level risers tilted up and they ALWAYS get my feet tapping. Klipsch is special!
Agreed! I'll have to try that set up with my gen1 600m's! I'm glad the algorithm hooked us up! See you back here!
I am pumped, today is 10/17/23 and this afternoon I will be at the local Klipsch store to test-drive the Forte IV's and the Cornwall IV speakers. LaScala 's are not in my budget.
My uncle has a pair of Heresy E's, he got them in Germany. I've not heard the Forte's, but had an opportunity to do some repairs to a local theater that uses Klipsch speakers. 3 LaScalas in front on top of Klipsch Dual 15 Horn subs and 4 Heresy's for surrounds. That is an experience! Sound is beautiful! Personally I have a pair of monster ElectroVoice Sentry 4's from 1975. They are like LaScalas, but a little smoother in the midrange and have 2x 12's instead of a 15" woofer.
Good stuff! I'm glad your experiencing BBJ- big box joy! Rock on and thanks for watching!!!
The Original Forte was my first great speaker system and would end up spending a lot more money to improve my system.
I never would have guessed a pair of Klipsch could be my forever speaker, even though I had a pair of Heresy IIIs I liked, but for my 40th birthday my Dad got me a pair of Forte IVs and boy am I glad he did! I love them. I listen to all types of music and they do justice to everything in my opinion.
That's exactly how I feel! Excited for you! What finish did you get?
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog Distressed Oak with the lambswool grilles. They were an open box pair from a local dealer so we got a really good price, too!
Loved the Fortes since I first heard them in the late 80s.
Budget limits at the time led me to get the Cerwin Vega D-9s instead and I still wish I'd kept those every day.
Still have my 601s from 86 but seriously miss the Vegas as the set of Anthems i have are just WAY too much for where we live.
Thanks for the trip down memory lane with that sweet nostalgia hit Bob.
...also just grabbed a rough sleeve but clean vinyl of Pros and Cons of Hitchhiking.
I'm on my way to analog USA, but this time together with my JVC. Or something like ' Tokyo I'm on my way, and with my old Toyota it's not so far away''' ...;-) These Forte's 'rock' ! I've listened to them often living oversees in Vancouver BC. My favored current gem. Klipsch speakers.
Have fun!
I love your excitement for Klipsch! I’ve never heard fortés, but I LOVE my 1978 Heresy’s. My wife calls them my unicorn speakers, because it took me so long to find the pair I wanted. Klipsch rules!
I have the Cornwall IVs and they’re great but so massive. I may buy a set of Forte IVs to compare or try to find a dealer who has both. But yeah, I totally agree the veneer is beautiful.
I'm a Klipsch fan boy. I have 3 pairs and a center channel. My "Forever" speakers were my DCM Time Window 1As. I bought them in 1984 for 900 bucks which we didn't have , but my wife insisted that I buy them. I had them for 34 years and gave them to my nephew because I didn't want to sell them to a stranger. LOL
That is an audio love story, right there! Congrats!
I think you must be the first person I’ve heard on CZcams or maybe anywhere mention Toby speakers! It must’ve been sometime in the 80s and I lived in the Fort Worth area when I would visit Toby’s shop and listen and discuss speakers with him. He wasn’t very fond of Klipsch at all and would love to show how much better his speakers sounded than the Klipsch speakers he had in his show room which if I remember correctly, were either Cornwall or La Scalas. Before I owned my own pair of Klipsch speakers, I bought a pair of his tower transmission line unfinished speakers made out of MDF, which had a 6 x 9 full range speaker and a 1 inch tweeter. They were pretty good, but definitely no Klipsch. I grew up in high school in a high school band with a director who had worked at the Klipsch plant in Hope Arkansas during summer vacations and who knew Paul Klipsch personally - so I was already well acquainted with the Klipsch sound. And in our band hall we had anything from Klipsch corner horns to La Scalas at any given time. The first pair of Klipsch speakers I owned personally were KG4s that I bought in the late 80s. They never sounded quite right to me and I have always felt like I needed a three-way Klipsch speaker. Eventually, I bought a used pair of La Scalas and then later a used pair of Klipschorns. Sadly, I had to sell both eventually. But more recently, a few years ago, I bought a used pair of Heresy 1 and now more recently after buying and selling a pair of Cornwall 1 I bought a pair of Quartets. These quartets from 1996 are probably about as close to your Forte 4 as you can get. If you lived closer, I’d love for you to listen to them. I bet you’d notice how similar to your forte as they are. When I was a band director, I had a pair of Forte 1 installed in our band room. They sounded amazing! So I knew the Quartets would sound great too! And the best part is that all of this Klipsch goodness comes in at under $1000.
Been upgrading my 1987 LaScalas and falling in love with them in spite of their flaws
Thank you for sharing your passion for speakers throughout your life. I'm in the same boat, and I really related. I Watch a lot of CZcams speaker reviews, haven't heard anybody talk about their passion for speakers. It was a bit touching. Cheers!
Hey, Man! I appreciate that! I got hooked at a very young age! I wish I could listen to them all... though, I'm always glad I have the Klipsch Fortes to come home to!!! Thanks for watching!
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog thanks! I ordered some Forte IVs Tonight. Looking forward to their arrival!
I cannot be more in agreement with you!, I upgraded my Klipsch RP280F to the Klipsch Forte IVs around a year and a half ago, and I am in love with them. I have them paired with a PrimaLuna EVO400 poweramp and the sound is so realistic and truthful that you really think the band is right there in the rooms behind the speakers!!!
I'm going to be borrowing a primaluna soon! Can't wait to see what it can do with my IV's!
I’m sure you’re going to love that combination; I look forward to see if you are going to post a video about it.
Ho abbinato la Forte IV al leben 600x, suono favoloso!!!
I'm running Forte II's with a refurbished 1959 Scott 299 tube amp. They are amazing and Ive had them for about 20 years and moved with them any times. The room characteristics really make a huge difference in how they sound. Adding an old Technics turntable from the 1980s next week. I'm hoping they are "forever" speakers.
Going back to 1980 my first set of Klispch were the Heresy
Unfinished and I was in the Army in West Germany and those Heresy filled the room.
I sold my Klispch and regretted it.
My next set were the orginal Forte Cherry Finish. Traded them in for Bose .
I have a pair of Paradigm Moniters which I love.
Recently picked up Forte IV.
Walnut and there beautiful.
I live in Small Cottage out in Remote area and Forte does it . I have a soft spot for Heresy but Forte IV is a Step up . For the Price your right there. No regrets.
I bought a pair of original Fortes in 1987 and still have them, through a divorce, several moves, 3 or 4 amplifiers, the addition of KG4s as rear channel speakers... you get the idea. They are literally my "forever" speakers. I enjoy them as much today as I did when I unboxed them and hooked them up. They replaced Realistic Mach one speakers, and the difference made me get emotional. It demonstrated how really awful the Radio Shack speakers were, and how incredible the Fortes were (are!). I was a stupid 20 year old kid when I bought the Mach Ones, and 30 when I bought the Klipsch speakers. I'm 67 now, and have no plans whatsoever to buy anything else. The speakers will outlive me. I have Heresys playing as my garage stereo, and I used to have LaScalas when I DJ'ed for a few years in the 90's; I sold them 2 years ago, and even though I didn't use them anymore, (other than a few backyard parties at friend's or relative's houses) I miss having them.
I have some older Klipsch KG4'S love them.
We should all start a Klipsch admiration society!!!! Thanks for watching! Please come back!
I've refurbished many sets of klipsch. My first were forte II in the mid 80's. At one point I had two pairs of forte II with Crites upgrades. As satisfactory as they were, klipsch evolved the forte. The Forte IV are FAR superior to older models, including modified units. Klipsch addressed the shortcomings and polished them out. The Forte IV sound more realistic than the majority of expensive boutique speakers.
My feeling as well, but a lot of "purists" still dump on them! "Horn" for some is a four-letter word. I don't get it... the sound should speak for itself! Thanks for watching!
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog the worst part of that- they think everything sounds like the old metal horns. On top of that, bad setups ruin it for them. And of course, there are the die hard snobs that hate treble, hate bass and everything has to be soft and laid back. As a drummer, those laid back speakers don’t sound like drums. They are either gutless, rolled off or both. I don’t want cymbals that sound like they are being played under a towel. Real music is forward and has presence.
It’s a trip,
I’m watching this video on my tv, which is hooked up to some
Pioneer hpm-40s!
I LOVED those speakers!!! I'm always looking out for a good pair! Thanks for being a part of this new community! We're already finding stuff in common!
Missed the live but watched it this morning. Yeah these are on my short list. Maybe one day. Until then, my Polk R200’s will have to suffice. Get to feeling better and don’t be too hard on yourself. You are doing great. Looking forward to the next one.
R200s a solid choice and well respected!
I love mine too! Got them used for 3k but they're 600 to ship so 5k and free shipping for brand new is a tough call. Went through a Yamaha AS2200 and Decware Zen tube amp before settling on a Vincent class A hybrid to get the weighty sound I wanted out of them. They image perfectly and are the best of both worlds for transparency and dynamics! I also recently picked up a Marantz 2245 receiver and was amazed by the difference in bottom end when hitting the loudness button. Wonderful vintage piece but left channel is weak so probably needs a rebuild when I can get the funds.
Wow! I have a 2245 too! Killer!
That's the last confirmation I needed.
I'll get a pair of Forte IV. I also considered Buchardt A10 or the Avantgarde Acoustic Colibri C2. I'll pair them with a Peachtree GAN1 and a Bluesound Node X. Maybe the amp/streamer changes until I get them, I wanted to add a turntable in the mix but also hook them up to my TV, not sure if that's a good idea.
I don't see why hooking them up for video sound wouldn't work. But I guess I'm a weird purist and only use my Fortes for music. I might do a second video on this to talk more about their sound, equipment I'm using, and how I have them set up! Good luck on your speaker journey... and thanks for watching!
My dream speakers are still in my possession. It's a pair of Magnepan SMGc planar magnetic speakers; I believe they were built in the 90's at some point. They are NOT super-efficient and lively in the way that Klipsch horn speakers are. However, if you place them in a medium-sized plus room, the dipole effect + the lack of coloration in the upper bass + the insane speed of the planar-magnetic panels- obviously driven with a powerful class AB amplifier, the resolution is just incredible. I would love to live with a set of high-end Klipsch's for a brief period, to see what it's about. I've almost pulled the trigger on the RP-600M II's a couple of times, but it just didn't justify the hype vs. their true horn speakers.
The 600s can't compare to their heritage big box brothers. They are good but we're probably overhyped. But I'm speaking of the first generation
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog and if I understand correctly, a true horn uses a compression driver, whereas the RP-600M uses a waveguide-loaded conventional tweeter?
The best part for me is your mention of value. There are some speakers I recently ran across, which are about the same size, horn mid and tweeter, but almost twice the price! So the law of diminishing returns kicks in hard.
What a breath of fresh air. Love your approach. Good job. You earned my sub.
And you would be spending a bunch more cash on Subs for those LaScalas , IMO the Forte IV is well worth the Money and don't really need Subs to make the Sound all around Awesome!
Great Video!
That makes me feel good about my lV's!!! Well, I already felt pretty good!
Glad to see you are up and running Bob! Another outstanding presentation. Speakers... I have drooled over speakers for years, and gear. But,I have been living out of a bag for so many years, left Detroit when I was 18 in the early 80's, and now finally settling down. I always wanted a pair of the big Klipsch, no room, no time, etc. I am finally slowing down, and found a very nice pair of Zu Omen Dirty Weekend speakers. I LOVE these things! And like Klipsch, Made in the USA!
When you spoke of the hunt for the sound of your youth... I have been on that journey for the past few years and found it in a vintage 1970 Sansui 4000 stereo receiver, paired with the Zu's and our favorite Mofi StudioDeck, audio nirvana.
I liked the Zu's so much, I called the guys in Utah and asked about upgrading to their latest, and what would they recommend for my particular room and gear. So, I have a new pair of Zu Dirty Weekend 6's coming with their Supreme upgrade. Hopefully that is it for awhile in regards to speakers... Just sold the KLH Model 5's... The Zu's are simply incredible, just like your Forte's.
And funny you mentioned Blue Note Records, I just received the first copy of their "The Third Man-Blue Note 313 Series", It just came today, I believe it is the Donald Byrd, Electric Byrd along with Thad Jones in the series. I have their 180 gram Art Blakey Moanin' album and must say, these guys at Blue Note do not mess around. And best thing here, they are right here in the Detroit area where I live! For those of you that do not know, the 313 series is based upon the Detroit Jazz scene, 313 is the local Detroit area code. Very cool!
Hey, thanks again Bob, the T-Shirts you sent are fantastic and good to see you are up and running making video! You take care.
Dude, thanks for taking the time to provide all this information! I have actually been thinking a lot about the ZU DW6 and I want to order a pair!!! I have no idea where to put them but they are on my hit list! Maybe someday, my channel will be popular enough that manufacturers will send me audition gear!!! ZU, are you seeing this? I'm also jonesing for those MoFi SourcePoint 8 or 10s. MoFi are you seeing this? Is that BNTP III MAN release mail order only?
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog I will drop the guys at Zu a note! See if we can get you a pair!
The BNTP III MAN looks to be mail only right now. I ordered direct off the BN website.
They released both albums on Aug 7th, and shipped immediately. I had mine on the 9th via FedEx.
My forever speaker right now is a pair of Yamaha 1000 studio monitors
I've had my main speakers for 17 years, Zingali Overture 4 floorstanders from Italy with their lovely Omniray Poplar Horns. They were the best part of £5k when new but no regrets.
I'm now getting a bit restless and wondering about a change to my end game speakers. Problem is no idea what they are. They need to work with a 12.5 watt tube amp and a 215 watt solid state.
Pure Audio Project might be the ones but Fyne Audio and Wharfedale have some contenders. Also my beautiful wife needs to look the wrong way for just long enough..
That's a whole other level. I've got to look those up!
Love the Forte IV. Love my Vandersteen Model 2Ce Signature III a little more. Less $$ too. My forever speakers will be the Vandersteen Treo CTs. I regret selling my Klipsch KG 1.5. First serious speakers I bought post college. Had them for 30 years. I am getting some RP 600s to play with some low power tube amps. GET WELL MY MAN!
Thanks, I'm trying! I have some first gen 600m's. Maybe I should do a video on those!
I have a pair of older klipsch Heresy paired with a smaller Sansui receiver. Forte is my next step.
Go for it! Do Heritage speakers ever go on sale or open box?
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog yeah I’ve seen skyfi audio in NJ sometimes has them. I tend to buy run down gear and restore it. My heresy pair were all faded and scratched and I sanded and stained them back to being presentable, and the hpm-40s I have I rebuilt the woofers. The vinyl
Wrap has seen better days though on the pioneer’s.
That vinyl wrap was pretty jank on the HPM's, but I loved those speakers!
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog I agree completely. Since they seem like they are staying in my living room I’m considering putting on a a new vinyl
Wrap or doing a proper wood veneer.
Hey US of A. Nice channel. Awesome speakers. Instant sub. Ever since Andrew R’s review of the LA Scal., (brought him and Mrs. R to tears- I get it), I’m super intrigued. Retirement rig, with a 70th Anniversary Mc tube Amp/Pre, is the dream. With that…. 10:28 are we not going to talk about that integrated sexiness? And what could be glowing behind door #2? Guess we’ll have to stay tuned…Catch you down the road, you’re driving! 🍻
Thank you so much. It's comments like this that keep me going!!!! Enjoy your audio journey. See ya!
You are spot on when you say the Forte IV can be your forever speakers. Like you i have been around the block several times when it came to picking out speakers. That being said, after listening to several different brands i always come back to the Klipsch Heritage Series. I own the Klipsch Forte IV and have no regrets spending the $5000.00 on them. Any genre of music i throw at them , they sound great. Anyone out there that my be on the fence go and check out the Klipsch Heritage lineup of speakers, you won't be disappointed.
I think he likes em…”HEY MIKEY” and to think, I sold my mint ‘86 Forte’s in oiled oak for $800.00 in 2016. Ooops. 5k for a new pair-gulp. Batter-up
I can't wait to try these out!
Highly recommend!
A buddy of mine bought a set of first generation Forte's and I loved them. But they have always been out of reach for me. Between kids in college, buying and selling homes, doctor's bills, I guess life in general, it's just never happened. I've almost just given up. And at 5 grand , man it's a stretch now.
But I'm glad you enjoy yours. They are a really cool speaker.
I’m always shocked by the prices of new and used JBL/Klipsch speakers. The build quality is 40 years behind. The drivers don’t look exotic. The cabinets don’t seem very well dampened and yet they command a $5k sticker price. Can’t you just buy a pair of Ruark Templar speakers for under $800 online? On paper the Ruark seem way better. They have SEAS drivers.
Congratulations on finding your forever speakers! I have a pair of Forte I’s and absolutely love them. I rotate between them and JBL L100’s and I don’t see myself giving either of them up. Even the wife says I can’t get rid if them! I also do plan on customizing them to get that magnetic grill snap…
Imagine if we could buy just 1 pair of 12" woofer cabinets to use with either the Klipsh horns OR the JBL cones.
Reggae, Funk & Brass 🔈🔉🔊
And for a 3rd option to use with 12" woofer cabinets...............
Soft Dome midranges & an electro/ribbon tweeter. Huh.. huh...?
I'm glad I'm in the brotherhood. Have you heard all the Forte generations? If so, how would you describe the difference?
I've always wanted to try Ohm Walshs as mids too......
Omnidirectional mids would be interesting.
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog Sadly, I have not but I do hope to eventually. From what I’ve read, the differences between the first two are marginal. Even with the different mid horn. So that’s why I’m not exactly eager to but II’s. But then those were other people’s subjective impressions, so too may factors in play.
I have a sequential numbered pair of klipsch hearsay that I need to be refurbished, I'm in the Houston area but will travel for a good recommendation
I don't know of anyone in Austin that does that type of work.
I have been to Hope. Got to visit the Klipsch Museum. Lots of historic interesting audiophile. My friend who I is living in Little Rock has a pair of Cornscalas, damn good!
The LaScala's are a little piece of audio magic that never get old but they are insanely large. The knock on them is lack of sub 50Hz bass but that is due to the short horn allowed by the design of the cabinet. Add in a true high efficiency music focused sub from the likes of Tekton or one of the M&K push pull designs and you'll never want for anything else. Unless you mess up and listen to a pair of Volti Audio Vittora and their custom matching sub which is just a highly refined and beautiful version of, yep, a LaScala. But the Forte IV is a worthy substitute. For me the Cronwall's don't offer enough of a jump up in performance to warrant the increased price. But for some they work well. For years I listened to the audiophile crowd saying horns speakers were garbage and Klipsch were doubly so. Most had never heard a Heritage line product or at least hadn't heard one since 1972 powered by whatever their college electrical engineering buddy could cobble together for an amp project. I've now heard hundreds of speakers in thousands of combinations (not all in my home, of course) and for $5000 you have the Forte's, the Tekton Double Impact, the Paradigm Founders 100F and pretty much nothing else that comes close. Sure, other speakers do bits and pieces better but for being immersed in as close to real sound as current tech allows and getting lost in music those are the only three that offer the experience at that price point. None would be considered by the snoot crowd as sophisticated enough or refined enough but put them behind an acoustically transparent screen, as I've witnessed at a friends old home theater company with the Klipsch, and the snoot audiophile sometimes refused to believe a Klipsch LaScala or Forte was what they were swooning over until the screen was raised.
Such a great report and affirmation on the sonic qualities and value of Klipsch! Thanks for all the info! I DID prefer the Fortes over the Cornwallis... plus the Cornwallis were not as aesthetically pleasing to me for whatever reason, and would have dominated my room. Thanks for participating in this new community!!!!!
Great Video. I just bought a pair of Forte IV.
You will love them!!!
Dang, that's so close to my Klipsch story it's scary, I went to buy the Forte IV'S last year, and auditioned along with the Cornwalls and Heresy's. For whatever the reason (the room, break in etc) the Heresy's appealed to me more, which really surprised me.
So I have them, but swap those around and I feel exactly like you including the La Scala's.
Realistically, the Cornwalls are a possibility, but since they all share the same tweeter and mid drivers, not sure it would be a big enough difference to justify?
I actually got the spousal "green light" for the Cornwall IVs but selected the Forte. I just thought the were better for my application and I liked the sound and form factor more! I also own some Heresy III Anniversary editions. I would love to here the 4th gen of those in my home! So cool!
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog Nice, funny how when given the green light for bigger speakers we went with what suited our ears better.
Hope you're feeling better.
Cornwalls are for larger rooms where their bigger woofer on a really wide baffle (a key to their goodness) can throw a serious punch to your midsection at a greater listening distance.
Enjoyed this review. Well done.
Thank you! I was in a c-19 haze!
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog heal up my friend.
@@adsph Thanks! I'm on the front foot now! Thanks for checking in!
Hey Bob. I have a pair of Forté IVs in the distressed oak with the Lambs Wool covers. That’s the only speaker the Wife approves of.
I share your enthusiasm for the Forte’s!
I also have a pair of 1982 model La Scala’s in a small guest bedroom that I love! They’re my Jazz speakers; hard to beat. I’m a tube amplifier guy and tubes paired with Heritage series Klipsch loud speakers are hard to beat. I’m in the Austin area. If you’d ever like to come by and listen the the La Scala’s, hit me up.
I’m new to your channel, but loving that there’s a local guy to watch now. I’m happy to support and Best of luck!
Thanks, Samuel! You're a lucky guy, for sure! You might st have a big guest bedroom! If I put La Scalas in my guest room, I'd be sleeping on top of them! What part of town are you in? Do you listen to my morning show on 93.7?
I’m out in Manor. Always looking for music loving buddies. I’m in complete agreement with you about the Tone Poet Jazz Bluenote Vinyl. I’ve been slowly collecting them lately and LOVING the way they sound!
I’ve been traveling quite a bit out of market so I haven’t been a listener for a while now, but definitely a fan! When my kiddos were little, we listened to the Dudley and Bob Show every morning on the way to school. You’re a member of my family 😊
@@samuel6363 That's a good place to be!
Curious what tube amp you have paired with those amazing speakers. Thanks!
I’ve used a few different tube amplifiers, all with favorable results.
Originally the PrimaLuna Evo 400 integrated was driving them- great result!
I recently hooked up a mono-block pair of Decware Zen Triode power amps at only 2.7 watts with a PS Audio Stellar Gain Cell DAC/Preamplifier- amazing at moderate to low volume, but lacking a bit of power. Both setups were enjoyable to me.
Currently I have the PS Audio Stellar Gaincell connected to an Audio Research VT100 amplifier. This has been my favorite combination so far! 100 watts of tube power. The Forte’s really perform their best for me in this setup.
Hi thanks for your take on the Klipsch Forte 4 which are on my whishlist as well as the technics G700 which I noticed, and as much as I drool for the R700 or higher model R1000 i'm also hesitant as I mostly spinning vinyl vs this analog to digitizing amp
digital class D versus analoge is something most audiophiles criticize
For what I understand the Technics Jeno engine does with the analog signal such as of vinyl is jitter elimination noise shaping optimisation and a phono stage that uses digital processing for a more accurate perfomance.
But If I may quote some phrases from Bernie Grundman from the 45 RPM audiophile podcast with Chad Kassem and Ryan Smith.
That by digitize EQ and processing you manipulate the signal losing the integrity of the instruments and ambience everthing sounds cleaner but that's because you lose something.
Excuus me for talking for the most part about the technics but could you please share your experience with the technics and, in particular with the Klipsch Forte 4, or maybe in your next video.
Listen, I don't have the ears of those old guys😅 but for me the phono section and the headphone section of my SU-G700 are two of its greatest assets! Way better than they have to be for my ears. I use a MoFi Studiodeck with Mastertracker cart straight into the phono section of the Technics and out to the Fortes... and BOOM! No complaints. It's the right combo for me! I can't even imagine how good the 1000 is when the 700 gen 1 can do what it's doing for me! And let's not even bring up those meters!!!! Great discussion! Thanks!
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog thank you sir🤝 in that case those two stay on top of my wishlist
I've always loved "BIG". In 1974 a friend had a pair of Voice of the Theater speakers in his basement. I fell in love with big and horns.
I prefer listening to the music rather than having "Party's" and annoying the neighbors. Loud, sometimes yes, but not all the time. I enjoy jazz, classic rock, Blues, classical music, acoustic guitar and of course vocals, both male and female. Even "Space Music". Not much in reviews on classical music, which I like also. No tubes. I am using a DENON AV amp with 95 wats per channel and presently, just for 2 channel listening. I plan to stay with this amp.
I would love to have a pair of La Scala's. However, as you pointed out,,,,,, $$$$$ Money is presently An Object. I'm wondering if these Forte IV's would work for my needs?
Thoughts? I enjoyed your review and comments.
Best Regards
Dude you've heard of TOBY speakers?!?! I'm from Fort Worth and my friend's dad got him one for his car back in high school. Man we used to ride around with it turned up and those things kick!
I'm that old! I liked my little Toby bookshelves!
I've got pair a of Heresys that I bought secondhand in 1979, never found a reason to replace them.
Don't know if you noticed, but there is a Heresy III Anniversary model right above my head in this video! They are serving duty in my home Jazz Kissa style bar! You can watch the video on how I built it here on my channel! Thanks for watching and we will see you back here I hope!
Still have my Forte’ ll from 1990. $1,200.00 Never will get rid of them.
I have forte i driven by old Mcintosh 2015 power amp very well. Cant believe they can last for ages
Awsome review I had kg3 kg4 and kliptch la scalas but my final speakers is now cerwin vega sl15 and it's my taste I haven't heard anything like my speakers Whats your amps
Technics SU-G700 gen 1 and McIntosh MA-252... and a few lessers
Sonny Rollins Way Out West vinyl album in the top right. Only thing better would have been Miles. If you haven’t auditioned that album, I highly recommend.
I have some MD! The UHQR, Sketches etc
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog Beautiful.
Imo closed speakers sound better with passive radiators.
I need something more sensitive then what I have at the moment so im planning on getting some earlier Fortes to run with my fisher tube gear.
Go for it... you'll be glad you did!
Great video....thanks !
You got it, Mike James, Drummer!
That's a real Love compliment! If your wife sees this video she won't let you go under the covers for 2 weeks.😂😂😂
Late to the party, Bob. Hope feel better soon. I’ve had ADS L710 since 1979. I still love them. However, recently I purchased MoFi SourcePoint 8. They’re pretty great too. They won’t be with me for 44 years mainly because I’ll be far past my program’s end 😂. Btw, I’ve heard LaScala in 1973. My buddy bought them and let’s say I went there a few times.
I had a buddy I would often visit in my twenties who had a monster Mac system with 2 pairs of giant McIntosh speakers. Stacked, top level inverted! Never heard The Wall sound better! Thanks for watch and keep listening!
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog Awesome. I use Mac now. Amps are vintage MC2155 and MC2002.
@@stevezeidman7224 I have a couple of newer Macs I swap in and out!
I really want to heat those SourcePoints
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog They have great space, great mids, and very punchy bass.
Hey Bobfather... hope you get better 🙏.... miss you on the show!!!
I'll see your Big Box Joy and raise you some Big Horn Joy. As I'm blessed with a barn with a big and fun man cave loft, I've assembled a system around a pair of old LaScala commercial bass cabinets, but the centerpieces of the system are a pair of EV "white whale" midrange horns that are 38" wide and croon like Diana Krall herself. Also love my Forte 1s in the house, but there's no comparison.
Nice speakers and nice video
Thanks!
One in my book , Kef reference 104
Great vid, but more importantly, are those excellent specs JMM Torino or Kaine. I have a pair of Kaines in my collection, but the Torino are a little too wide for my face.
Very observant! You know your quality specs! These are the JMM Molinos. I also have a pair of Enzo's waiting in reserve! I'm JMM for life!
Love that! I have the Enzo too as my prescription sunglasses. I saw Jeff Goldbloom in a pair a few years ago and spent a day scouring the web trying to figure out what they were. Highest quality frames I've ever owned.@@UnitedStatesofAnalog
@@davida8682That's exactly my story! Pardon the pun... I never looked back!
If you want bass quality and not just quantity, you need a large, well braced box or better yet a large bass horn. Servo subs with massive class D power can go deep and loud but don't have the tight, dynamic slam. BTW I've had the illness which cannot be named twice and neither time was any worse than the flu.
Great observation. I do ad a sub to the mix when I want to get crazy! BTW I n get liked the flu either!
Very nice speakers. I had to go with the jbl l100 classics .
Can we have them both????????? I was so tempted. I store I bought the Klipsch from was also a JBL dealer and they had the anniversary model too. Oh man! Those orange grills! Don't get me started!
Much respect to folks who run made in the USA horns.
True Americans!
Nice video, U.S. of A. - I’m looking at these myself, five bills is a lot of dough. Also looking at the Zu DW6, also made in ‘merica but diff tech, nice finishes though. My RP-600Ms are just missing ‘something’ I cant put the pointer on…. maybe that’s just part of the audiophile journey or maybe I’ll find that forever speaker like you. Rock ON!
Love my Zu's, just ordered a new pair of their DW6 Supremes, should be here in a week or two at the latest, still burning in over in Utah. Paired with a vintage Sansui 4000 receiver, something you must experience to believe. A few videos of this combo on YT... I through a few pieces of gear at the Zu's, Parasound was good, Denafrips was like a wet blanket over the speakers. Sansui in that 1967 - 1972 line up, audio Nirvana. I have two Sansui units, the 2000 and 4000, both have an airy midrange with a very tube like sound, then the bass... I can rattle the cabinet in my dining room with this combo, no subs required. Just something to chew on. The Zu's do go very low. I cannot wait to compare my Omen DW's with the new DW 6's. Going to have a shootout!
I previously had the Klipsch RP600M for 2 really long years and hated them. I’ll tell you what’s wrong: the midrange. The midrange is the heart of the music and the RP600M just don’t cut it. Just imagine John Mayer performing behind a closed door with a Fisherprice plastic junk guitar. This is what the RP600M feels like. I upgraded to the Closer Acoustics OGY last year and OMG! The OGY just humiliate the RP600M. The bass is faster and tighter. The midrange and treble are flawless. Even the KEF LS60 lose to the OGY in terms of midrange and treble. Imaging and soundstage on the OGY is in a different league because single driver speakers do it best. Yeah the OGY aren’t cheap at nearly $2k. So if you’re tight on cash, the Q Acoustics 3020 run circles around the Klipsch RP600M and they cost less. The 3020 have a forward midrange and slightly boomy bass with a polite treble. Anyways, my 2 cents. I’m angry at Steve Guttenburg for overhyping the Klipsch RP600M. They’re just blah.
I have 600m gen 1s as well! Different beast. Any bookshelf model sounds "thin" to me when I sit down and get into the Fortes! It's a whole different listening experience! I'm not monitoring the sound, I'm feeling it with the Fortes! Funny that you mention the DW6! I've been thinking about those a lot! I might order them... but where would I put them! Maybe ZU is watching and will let me audition a pair!!!! ZU? Hit me up! Yeah... I'm ready to jettison my 600m gen 1s AND my LS50 Metas... they just ain't cutting' it no more!!!!
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog From my limited experience, Q Acoustics and Dynaudio bookshelf speakers sound rather “thick”. You’ll get a lot of mid bass and it will bleed slightly into the midrange (losing some clarity for warmth). It’s not a bad way to go, especially with rock music. For deep bass you’ll need a bigger box or a sub. But for acoustic music you’ll notice that vocals and guitars sound a little “woolly”.
You can find a pair of forte IV open box or B stock for under $3800. I bought a pair of B stock, cherry, they are fantastic at 3750. free shipping. They sound great. I also use a 30 band equalizer to fine-tune them. Playing with placement in your space is important. Synergy of room and system is critical.
I'd love to see a comparison of the Forte IV and the Elipson Heritage XLS 15. Similar size and price.
I also fin d my life long speaker the JBL M2!✌🏼
Those JBLs look serious. Definitely a monitor kind of look. How do they sound?
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog I drive 4xUREI 6260 in mono mode each driver has 600W as the JBL suggest in it’s manual..
Thats the sound you want until you hear them again compared to modern day speakers
Probably right... but sometimes it goes the other way!
Nice review. All my life I always wanted the K Horns. Does Klipsch take wives in on trade? I'm ready to deal.
Do what you can, my friend! My trick is to try to ease my wife into my hobby!
Only if they want your wife😉.
I have 2pr Forté, stacked... I'm v happy!
Do Know Home Theater 🎥 Speakers Set Up ??? I Have Klipsch Speakers Too, But I'm Wondering About 🤔 The Kef R11 Meta Speakers, Svs Speakers, Arendal 1723 Speakers Kef's R3 Meta Speakers ( FOR MOVIE 🎬 MUSIC 🎶 GAMING) How 🤔 Does The Klipsch Comparison To These Mentioned?????
I have some LS50 meta bookshelves. The can be detail revealing but leave me a little cold in the dynamics department! They just don't punch. Need a good sub!
Awesome review! Do you have any thoughts on the Heresy IV? I can’t get away with the Forte at this point, but might be able to get the Heresy to work in my shared listening/family space
Some prefer the Heresy IV over the Forte. I've only heard them in a showroom. Definitely a different form factor as they don't stand as tall. It is widely reported that the IVs are a big improvement over the IIIs. I believe that to be true! I use my IIIs daily and can offer no complaints! They will last a lifetime!
@@UnitedStatesofAnalog thanks for taking the time to respond! I haven’t had a chance to hear any of the heritage models or the vintage Klipsch. I gotta fix that soon. They seem like they’d be right up my alley.
Interesting you mentioned Toby! Are you in FW? I am and have a pair of D-60. Wouldn’t trade anything for them. Love those fortes though!
I'm in Austin! Toby had a very small storefront next to a Landon at off off Speedway (blocks north of the University of Texas). I had small 2-way bookshelves! Really f-ing basic! Can't find a pic online anywhere!
Have the Forte IVs myself with a Luxman integrated. I’m done
I get it!
"Forever Speaker" definition: Any speaker currently not up for sale.
Tru dat!
I wish I had the space for some Fortes or La Scalas!
how big a room do these need?
Feel better soon!
I own RP 8000F and I want the Forte
The people have spoken and they love the 8000F. You have chosen well, my friend! I have not compared the sound. I have had other Klipsch floorstanders, but I just wanted that vintage vibe!