i have the Model 3 in a small room for watching TV and listening to music. System is Marantz 40n for TV and streaming. I orginally had the KLH Model 5 but they were too much speaker for a small room. Th e KLH Model 3 is more appropirate. I agree with everything Tharbamar said in his review, what maked this speaker even more compelling is the sale price of $999 a pair. Really a great value for a great speaker. Nice wide sound stage. These speakers replaced a pair of Totem Sky Towers which were great sounding but i found them to be too directional.
@@philipaparkerI agree.. I have a pair of model 5’s - love them. It’s just that when I sit off center I lose the center image (kind of smallish, shallow-in-depth room, so extreme angle changes when moving left to right) so was thinking of adding a model 3 as a center. Just an idea.
Not too many acoustic suspension models available in this stand mount speaker class. I dig their classic design quality. They look great on the stands. I tend to like acoustic suspension speakers.
I remember buying a pair of KLH 15" from a guy driving white van full of electronic back im 1985. It was either KLH or AR brand was the thing at that time.
Thank you Tharbamar for this review! A few other reviewers criticized this speaker when it came out. Your review aligns perfectly with my experience (my amp is the Arcam SA20 with 90 wpc at 8 ohms). These are amazing speakers across every genre of music. Thanks again!!
You have a nice system! The SA20 is a fine amplifier with these speakers. They also work great with much more powerful Krell and McIntosh amps. Luscious speakers for the money!
@@earlyetman5588 thank you! I agree, I bought the Model 3’s as an entry point into the audiophile level of speakers but they are better than entry level. I’ll be keeping them long term and upgrading my amp. Thanks again!
@@Tharbamarbetween this and the Linton 85 which would you prefer? I'm planning to get the Linton. I'm pairing it with audiolab 6000a and Cmbridge Audio CXA61.
Compared the Model 3s to my late brothers Revel M20s using a Marantz PM8004…the Model 3s are superior in nearly every aspect. The Revels have slightly better mid bass, maybe. The KLH are remarkable for the price!
The Model 5s are amazing, depends on the room size though. I use Dynaudio Contours in my main room. I listen to the Model 3s more often though…. KLH hit these speakers out of the ball park!
Nice! That’s what I’m considering. I already have the model 5’s and experimented with a new Kendall 2c center… but I’m not convinced. Did you lay your Model 3 on its side?
@@tkusterbexcellent - I love the idea! Do you sense you have a wide enough, even dispersion of sound when the Model 3 is laying on its side? That’d probably be my main concern without having heard them in person - anyways, very exciting!
@Tharbamar: Is Model 3 still not as good as Model 5? Where does it stand against KEF LS50 or R3 Meta? I know you said they give them a run for their money, but like ranking-wise where would they fall?
It's funny how some products just dont capture peoples imagination. These speakers have struggled from their introduction with mediocre reviews and low sales. I guess they are going away after the bargain hunters snap up these for a grand. A good deal if they fit your needs. I suppose people were expecting a mini model five and it just didnt appear.
Andrew Robinson hated their looks and another reviewer (Mike on Audio?) claimed they had no midrange. That killed sales during their first year. The current sale price of $1000 USD is such a no brainer; add a good amp and a sub and you’re in hifi heaven. My Arcam SA20 is a perfect match for the Model 3’s.
Those are astute observations. I picked up a pair of unopened “open box” Model 3s in Nordic Noir from Music Direct for $799…I am flabbergasted by just how good they are. These stand tall (no pun intended) with my Dynaudio Contours. One of the very best speakers under $2000, and IMO, the very best under $1000.
@@earlyetman5588 I like your choice of the word “Tall”; when you set these up correctly and give them some juice they are amazing. With the current $1k sale price I think we’ll see more owners and positive feedback on CZcams, Reddit, etc. Enjoy those Model 3’s!
Really thorough and informative review. Thank you! I am surprised and impressed with the bass in your sound sample. Your suggestion of a Denafrips dac and good quality, non-bright amplification as pairings seems right on, although in practice I doubt many people with pair it with an Accuphase integrated. Do you have any suggestions for new or used class AB integrateds for $2000 or under that you suspect might work well with the Model 3? I am thinking possibly Denon PMA-1700NE, Rega Elex/Elex-R Mk3 or Arcam SA20?
I would personally go for the amp with the biggest power supply in your list because Model 3 is pretty flexible in paring, even with SMSL AO300 sounded really nice, thanks
@@andrewgorenc9160 Thanks for your feedback Andrew! If I may ask, are you using the onboard ESS dac or an outboard dac (which one?) and what is your source (ex., Wiim Pro, Bluesound Node or other)? Or are you mainly playing vinyl? Also, one reviewer said that at higher volumes, the soundstage produced by the Arcam SA20 collapsed and became limited more to the plane of the speakers. Has that been your experience?
@@johntucker5994 hello John, I’m using the onboard DAC fed by a Wiim Pro streamer. I listen entirely to Tidal via their Masters high-res option. My experience with the Model 3 so far has been just what Tharbamar stated: detailed highs, textured bass and mid-bass, and huge soundstage. And they play loud with my SA20 on only 35/100 volume level! I chose the Model 3’s over the LS50 metas and I’m glad I did. Any other questions let me know! (And no collapsing soundstage for me whatsoever; awesome soundstage so far)
@@andrewgorenc9160 You are awesome Andrew! Thank you for taking the time to give such an informative response! It's good people like you who make this kind of forum so valuable. I am trying to put together a system recommendation for my daughter. Again, thank you for your help.
As always really appreciate your reviews and imput. Im planning on upgrading my budget system with these speakers in the near future, looking to get a pair used at a good price. I listen to digital music mostly using a Bluesound Node and a SMSL DA-9. Like I said its a budget system. Do you think the DA-9 will be sufficient to drive the model 3's? I would like to upgrade the streamer and amp eventually and am considering the Eversolo DMP-A6 and something like a Topping LA90. There are too many to choose from in the $1000 range. Love to hear the thoughts from the community.
@@rog86 I hear it here on HD sound quality and good headphones... that is clear enough to distinguish. Aside from other things the KLH3 mids don't appear to have an engaging tonality to my ears.
The knob on the back selects resistors on the internal crossover. The positions are Hi, Mid, Low, these positions correspond to 0 db, -1.5 db, -3db. It is a straight cut from 900 Hz up.
Nice panasonic plasma, I just replaced mine. How would these compare to criton tdx? Using higher end reciever with dirac. Will be using a sub as well. Appreciate your videos.
Thank you for your review ! a question: i am ready to get the KLH model 3....but i am stuck with the choise of the amp. I mostly lisen vinyl (rock) and sometime streaming. What will be your suggestion ? Thank you.
I have an Arcam SA20, Marantz PM6006, and PM8004. They all sound amazing with the Model 3. I nearly pulled the trigger on a PM7000N but was concerned (likely unwarranted) about so much stuffed into one box. I would make your move on the 7000N, Marantz seems to be making a move up upmarket with prices increasing substantially.
planning of buying knight 1 , I found a deal of 1050$ for a pair in my region , Are these even better ? present using SF Sonetto I , will I be impressed of these or the knight I ?
@@Tharbamar thank you I am then thinking about the Elac UBR62 or the Warfedale Evo 4.2 those should be better fits. Thank you for your response, I love your channel and keep up the great work!
Bass on these speakers is surprisingly good. In my room I have them a foot from the front wall from back of speaker. I use a sub but it’s not mandatory.
Active speakers are convenient but I don’t like dealing with them when they start having issues in the long run that’s me everybody is different. Thanks
Are you reviewing the tower spkr next to you? They look interesting, a wide full range spkrs(4"white in color) at the top? I am afraid the KLH sounds a little boxy to me or is it your recording? I am afraid the spkrs out in the market esp. this price range are very fierce and competitive.
Nice but most speakers sound good when raised like that with a tilt, that was my method to get better audio when CDs arrived.... Those maybe worth $300.usd @ best old tech sound hits the edge of the cabinet and breaks up distorts
@@TharbamarIt was a great review I understand anyone with a all analog setup will love it!!! I agree!!! It's Classic but not for a modern all digital content. I've finally mastered digital and can't get those speakers to make a broad deep soundstage sith details
Oh you’re not missing anything with these designs and speakers, vintage designs does not mean vintage sound. please keep in mind real music is Analog it is absolute and unmatched highest resolution format that you can get, these have better details and resolution than KEF R3 Meta which most consider modern design just for comparison.
@@Tharbamar 1850s the first audio was recorded on a cylindrical tube 1970s that started digital to tape.. Nothing today is recorded in Analog.. We got the prototypes and have fixed the problems for production 12-24 months I hope to send you some of the new devices, you have a great EAR!!! even you will say there is nothing like it
May I ask have you try them in your system? but thats your opinion because sound is subjective but cheap parts ? if you look at most commercially available audio components most of them uses them but it's not important because synergy is the key than anything in audio chain.
I compare with the sound of your videos where JBLs are used. The difference is very evident and worse. It is logical to expect a low quality of components in the filter in that price range. The sad thing is that the same thing happens at higher ranks. It does not seem, looking at the measurements, that they have synergy problems. It is more due to its frequency response. They may need many more hours of burning@@Tharbamar
Ok I got you but please do not judge any audio component based on online sound samples, only reason I included is just for point of reference not for final judgement. Thanks
i have the Model 3 in a small room for watching TV and listening to music. System is Marantz 40n for TV and streaming. I orginally had the KLH Model 5 but they were too much speaker for a small room. Th e KLH Model 3 is more appropirate. I agree with everything Tharbamar said in his review, what maked this speaker even more compelling is the sale price of $999 a pair. Really a great value for a great speaker. Nice wide sound stage. These speakers replaced a pair of Totem Sky Towers which were great sounding but i found them to be too directional.
Marantz are a great paring with these speakers! Truly high end sound on a “beer budget”!
I'm guessing I missed the sale? Can't find it anywhere 😢
What do you think about using a single model 3 as a center channel between two model 5’s? Maybe the model 3 laying on its side?
I use mine with a Marantz model 40n with no subwoofer or center channel speaker. They disappear and give a great center image.@@architoshi
@@philipaparkerI agree.. I have a pair of model 5’s - love them. It’s just that when I sit off center I lose the center image (kind of smallish, shallow-in-depth room, so extreme angle changes when moving left to right) so was thinking of adding a model 3 as a center. Just an idea.
Not too many acoustic suspension models available in this stand mount speaker class. I dig their classic design quality. They look great on the stands. I tend to like acoustic suspension speakers.
I remember buying a pair of KLH 15" from a guy driving white van full of electronic back im 1985. It was either KLH or AR brand was the thing at that time.
I have these,they sound good . I use parasound 200 amplifier. It takes longer period to get the best sound from these speakers.
You raise a good point here; they do benefit from break-in. I’ve had mine for six months, and they sound better and better with each passing week.
I have these and am extremely happy with them. They sound great with everything and I actually really like the form factor in my space.
Thank you Tharbamar for this review! A few other reviewers criticized this speaker when it came out. Your review aligns perfectly with my experience (my amp is the Arcam SA20 with 90 wpc at 8 ohms). These are amazing speakers across every genre of music. Thanks again!!
You have a nice system! The SA20 is a fine amplifier with these speakers. They also work great with much more powerful Krell and McIntosh amps. Luscious speakers for the money!
@@earlyetman5588 thank you! I agree, I bought the Model 3’s as an entry point into the audiophile level of speakers but they are better than entry level. I’ll be keeping them long term and upgrading my amp. Thanks again!
These KLH Model 3 are great speakers, they have exceptional clarity!
Yes clarity and dynamics are very hard to beat at current prices.
i hear lot of sibilance!! or is it you tube!?@@Tharbamar
@@Tharbamarbetween this and the Linton 85 which would you prefer? I'm planning to get the Linton. I'm pairing it with audiolab 6000a and Cmbridge Audio CXA61.
It will be all come down to personal preference but Bass quality and power handling of Model 3 in unmatched for Linton 85th.
Compared the Model 3s to my late brothers Revel M20s using a Marantz PM8004…the Model 3s are superior in nearly every aspect. The Revels have slightly better mid bass, maybe. The KLH are remarkable for the price!
I got the KLH Model 5 , just brilliant speakers
Agreed.
The Model 5s are amazing, depends on the room size though. I use Dynaudio Contours in my main room. I listen to the Model 3s more often though…. KLH hit these speakers out of the ball park!
My main L + R speakers are KLH Model 5s, and I added one Model 3 for a center. Excellent!
Very nice!
Nice! That’s what I’m considering. I already have the model 5’s and experimented with a new Kendall 2c center… but I’m not convinced. Did you lay your Model 3 on its side?
@@architoshi Yes, exactly, as you can buy the Model 3 individually, not just as a pair.
@@tkusterbexcellent - I love the idea! Do you sense you have a wide enough, even dispersion of sound when the Model 3 is laying on its side? That’d probably be my main concern without having heard them in person - anyways, very exciting!
@@architoshi Dispersion is fine. It's just a mono center channel. Dialogue is clearer than I have ever experienced before.
@Tharbamar: Is Model 3 still not as good as Model 5? Where does it stand against KEF LS50 or R3 Meta? I know you said they give them a run for their money, but like ranking-wise where would they fall?
Man, at this price, it's a no brainer. Too bad I don't live in the US.
Has a broad dip from 200Hz to 2000Hz. Is accurate from 2K to 10K.
@tharbamar Apologies if I'm missing it (I did look), but do you have a link to the list of tracks that you reference and show in the video? Thanks!
Nice sound demo. I have these and use them with a 5" Jamo Sub.
Very nice!
Compared to KEFQ950 speakers these are forward sound.KLH is more detail oriented and clean sound than KEF. KEF has that warm and relaxed sound .
Again, Very good review! because of your review i purchased the model 5 and very happy with it.
Great to hear! Thanks
Nice review friend. How do these compare to Lintons?
I have these. Match them with a Cambridge CXA81 amp and you're going to be very happy.
Yes you nailed this
It's funny how some products just dont capture peoples imagination. These speakers have struggled from their introduction with mediocre reviews and low sales. I guess they are going away after the bargain hunters snap up these for a grand. A good deal if they fit your needs. I suppose people were expecting a mini model five and it just didnt appear.
They truly exceeded my expectation in sound quality, I’m thinking of replacing my KEF R3 Meta with Model 3.
Andrew Robinson hated their looks and another reviewer (Mike on Audio?) claimed they had no midrange. That killed sales during their first year. The current sale price of $1000 USD is such a no brainer; add a good amp and a sub and you’re in hifi heaven. My Arcam SA20 is a perfect match for the Model 3’s.
Just remember no one's opinion counts but yours. I'm not sure Mike on Audio is my benchmark of reviewers. @@andrewgorenc9160
Those are astute observations. I picked up a pair of unopened “open box” Model 3s in Nordic Noir from Music Direct for $799…I am flabbergasted by just how good they are. These stand tall (no pun intended) with my Dynaudio Contours. One of the very best speakers under $2000, and IMO, the very best under $1000.
@@earlyetman5588 I like your choice of the word “Tall”; when you set these up correctly and give them some juice they are amazing. With the current $1k sale price I think we’ll see more owners and positive feedback on CZcams, Reddit, etc. Enjoy those Model 3’s!
Really thorough and informative review. Thank you! I am surprised and impressed with the bass in your sound sample. Your suggestion of a Denafrips dac and good quality, non-bright amplification as pairings seems right on, although in practice I doubt many people with pair it with an Accuphase integrated. Do you have any suggestions for new or used class AB integrateds for $2000 or under that you suspect might work well with the Model 3? I am thinking possibly Denon PMA-1700NE, Rega Elex/Elex-R Mk3 or Arcam SA20?
I would personally go for the amp with the biggest power supply in your list because Model 3 is pretty flexible in paring, even with SMSL AO300 sounded really nice, thanks
I currently have the Model 3’s connected to the SA20. Amazing combination. The paper drivers and Class G amp are a fantastic combo
@@andrewgorenc9160 Thanks for your feedback Andrew! If I may ask, are you using the onboard ESS dac or an outboard dac (which one?) and what is your source (ex., Wiim Pro, Bluesound Node or other)? Or are you mainly playing vinyl? Also, one reviewer said that at higher volumes, the soundstage produced by the Arcam SA20 collapsed and became limited more to the plane of the speakers. Has that been your experience?
@@johntucker5994 hello John, I’m using the onboard DAC fed by a Wiim Pro streamer. I listen entirely to Tidal via their Masters high-res option. My experience with the Model 3 so far has been just what Tharbamar stated: detailed highs, textured bass and mid-bass, and huge soundstage. And they play loud with my SA20 on only 35/100 volume level! I chose the Model 3’s over the LS50 metas and I’m glad I did. Any other questions let me know! (And no collapsing soundstage for me whatsoever; awesome soundstage so far)
@@andrewgorenc9160 You are awesome Andrew! Thank you for taking the time to give such an informative response! It's good people like you who make this kind of forum so valuable. I am trying to put together a system recommendation for my daughter. Again, thank you for your help.
Great review,back to reviewing monitores!!!!Can you give the chance to the new Revela speaker from Quad???? thanks and cheers from Argentina
Hello, loved the video ❤. Are they better than the Linton?
Definitely in open and wide sound stage, Linton Heritage bass is kind of slow not really a fan of overall sound.
Bought a KLH Model 5 speaker, do I need a tube or transistor integrated amplifier, which one would you recommend ?
As always really appreciate your reviews and imput. Im planning on upgrading my budget system with these speakers in the near future, looking to get a pair used at a good price. I listen to digital music mostly using a Bluesound Node and a SMSL DA-9. Like I said its a budget system. Do you think the DA-9 will be sufficient to drive the model 3's? I would like to upgrade the streamer and amp eventually and am considering the Eversolo DMP-A6 and something like a Topping LA90. There are too many to choose from in the $1000 range. Love to hear the thoughts from the community.
Nice review, but imo nothing for Dyanudio Evoke 10 to be worried about here (for small rooms)....
Really? Have you heard the klh?
@@rog86 I hear it here on HD sound quality and good headphones... that is clear enough to distinguish. Aside from other things the KLH3 mids don't appear to have an engaging tonality to my ears.
The Grace vocal are a little washed out, but that's not bad.
Nicely Done.
Can ypu give a brief explanation how the knob on the back can change the sound.
What is it doing internally ?
Thanks
The knob on the back selects resistors on the internal crossover. The positions are Hi, Mid, Low, these positions correspond to 0 db, -1.5 db, -3db. It is a straight cut from 900 Hz up.
@@earlyetman5588 Good to know.
Small adjustments to the high frequency.
It’s a gentle roll off. These are amazing speakers!
Nice panasonic plasma, I just replaced mine.
How would these compare to criton tdx? Using higher end reciever with dirac. Will be using a sub as well.
Appreciate your videos.
I’d prefer it over my 1TDX Superior in sound quality, thanks
Tharbamar what dac do you use in your reference system these days?
Currently using these in rotation, czcams.com/video/wYD99GvUlQk/video.html , czcams.com/video/mZSRO3t-0l0/video.html
Hello, on the model 3’s , did you prefer the grills on or off?
Thanks
Stephen
Hi, I like without the grill, thanks
I just got them and I think I prefer the grills off too.
Thank you for your review ! a question: i am ready to get the KLH model 3....but i am stuck with the choise of the amp. I mostly lisen vinyl (rock) and sometime streaming. What will be your suggestion ? Thank you.
If you’re going with AB amplifiers try something from Marantz it should have one of the best synergy with Model 3. Thanks
Thanks for the input @@Tharbamar I am between Marantz PM700N and Cambridge Audio CXA81. Any thougths ? Thanks.
I have an Arcam SA20, Marantz PM6006, and PM8004. They all sound amazing with the Model 3. I nearly pulled the trigger on a PM7000N but was concerned (likely unwarranted) about so much stuffed into one box. I would make your move on the 7000N, Marantz seems to be making a move up upmarket with prices increasing substantially.
Both great choices I would try it first with Model 3, thanks
planning of buying knight 1 , I found a deal of 1050$ for a pair in my region , Are these even better ? present using SF Sonetto I , will I be impressed of these or the knight I ?
it is going to be preference based decision because both great sounding speakers but for the build quality of Knight 1 is in different level.
What would u suggest upgrade to jbl stage 130
How would the Yamaha as501 drive these? Would it be too bright or warm?
It should sound neutral and dynamic up to 80-85db range.
Thank you.
How large is your room if you can give us the info? Pls!
My room is 24’ by 17’.
Would these fit on 28inch monolith speaker stands?
it's not not wide enough.
@@Tharbamar thank you I am then thinking about the Elac UBR62 or the Warfedale Evo 4.2 those should be better fits. Thank you for your response, I love your channel and keep up the great work!
How good is the BASS
Bass on these speakers is surprisingly good. In my room I have them a foot from the front wall from back of speaker. I use a sub but it’s not mandatory.
If I use this speakers, how many watts amplifier should i use?
Personally I would go minimum 80 watts at 8 ohm.
I use a 60 watt Cambridge CXA61 and it sounds great, but it's a very small room. Bigger room I'd go higher, 80W+.
@@tomunderwood6948 thank you 😊
Can I use my own stands? They’re only a foot taller
Yes but original stands are included in the price.
Tempting but the convenience of the Klipsch The Nines is drawing me away from these.
Active speakers are convenient but I don’t like dealing with them when they start having issues in the long run that’s me everybody is different. Thanks
Maybe try the mission 770
It may be embarrassing for reborn 770 compare to what Model 3 can do with it for the price and sound quality.
@@Tharbamar true , I still like the model 3 great review
Are you reviewing the tower spkr next to you? They look interesting, a wide full range spkrs(4"white in color) at the top?
I am afraid the KLH sounds a little boxy to me or is it your recording? I am afraid the spkrs out in the market esp. this price range are very fierce and competitive.
Here is my video about the towers, czcams.com/video/k-Sw4qjz6wg/video.html
Nice but most speakers sound good when raised like that with a tilt, that was my method to get better audio when CDs arrived.... Those maybe worth $300.usd @ best old tech sound hits the edge of the cabinet and breaks up distorts
Cost? everything in retail industry is the same.
@@TharbamarIt was a great review I understand anyone with a all analog setup will love it!!! I agree!!!
It's Classic but not for a modern all digital content. I've finally mastered digital and can't get those speakers to make a broad deep soundstage sith details
Oh you’re not missing anything with these designs and speakers, vintage designs does not mean vintage sound.
please keep in mind real music is Analog it is absolute and unmatched highest resolution format that you can get, these have better details and resolution than KEF R3 Meta which most consider modern design just for comparison.
@@Tharbamar 1850s the first audio was recorded on a cylindrical tube 1970s that started digital to tape.. Nothing today is recorded in Analog..
We got the prototypes and have fixed the problems for production 12-24 months I hope to send you some of the new devices, you have a great EAR!!! even you will say there is nothing like it
Hi which devices are you talking about? please elaborate.
Which speaker cable do you use in that demo ?
I’m using my own custom cables made with Mogami and Canare wires.
@Tharbamar I've build those cables from your tourtial video and thx there are great
White Anthony Anderson Elizabeth Martin Patricia
Woman sings flat. Low fidelity would be better.
KLH Model 3 sound much worse than your JBL L100 Classic 75th.
Crossover: cheap components.
Stereophile: KLH Model Three loudspeaker Measurements 🤨
May I ask have you try them in your system? but thats your opinion because sound is subjective but cheap parts ? if you look at most commercially available audio components most of them uses them but it's not important because synergy is the key than anything in audio chain.
I compare with the sound of your videos where JBLs are used. The difference is very evident and worse. It is logical to expect a low quality of components in the filter in that price range. The sad thing is that the same thing happens at higher ranks. It does not seem, looking at the measurements, that they have synergy problems. It is more due to its frequency response. They may need many more hours of burning@@Tharbamar
Ok I got you but please do not judge any audio component based on online sound samples, only reason I included is just for point of reference not for final judgement. Thanks
Частотная характеристика слабовата: 46 Гц - 20,000 Гц +/- 3 дБ
Для закрытого оформления нормально
Good bass for their size
@@seanb3303 Не очень. У меня студийные полочники такого же размера и формата 2,0, с НЧ от 38 Гц и реально работающим.
What would u suggest upgrade to jbl stage 130
Model 3 would be great upgrade, in JBL line Studio 630.