Review: Emotiva B1+, it's (almost) too good to be true
Ойын-сауық
Steve is bowled over by the Emotiva Airmotiv B1+ speakers. The new + version is barely changed from the original, just minor tweaks to the crossover network.
Specs
Efficiency: 86 dB (2.83V/1m).
Power handling: 70W continuous / 150W peak.
Recommended amplifier power: 50W - 250W / channel.
Nominal impedance: 8 ohms.
Frequency response: 48 Hz - 28 kHz (+3/-3 dB).
Crossover: 2 kHz, 12 dB / octave. Film caps, air core inductors
Mechanical
Dimensions: 10-3/4” high x 7-1/8” wide x 8-1/4” deep. 17” long x 21” wide x 14” high; pair (boxed).
Weight: 8.8 pounds (unboxed). 24 pounds; pair (boxed).
Mounting: Shelf or stand mount; includes shock absorbing rubber bottom pad.
Grille: Black cloth over a rigid frame; attaches securely with powerful magnets for easy removal.
More info here, emotiva.com/products/airmotiv...
#speakerreviews #audiophilespeakers #budgetspeakers
Пікірлер: 590
I inexplicably just love watching your reviews, Steve. I absolutely dig it! Your excitement, and genuine enthusiasm is so freaking refreshing! What I would love is seeing you relish the speaker you are reviewing as you listen to whatever gives you goosebumps. Next level right there.
This review made very clear why I love your style. You love the music you play so much and that comes across in the reviews. It's not the technical stuff about the products, but the way the product makes you feel when playing your favourite music. And that's so cool man!
Man, I am glad I found your channel. You have opened up my eyes, and have removed many of my biases as I am an older equipment fan (those from the 1970s and early 80s), such as my Marantz 2270, love that Marantz Blue, Pioneer CT-F11250, ESS Heil speakers, Dual 708q - love them all. Thank you for your daily b'casts.
Hi Steve--- just wanted to thank you for this great review. It was my introduction to a new brand, Emotiva ! After your review, I ordered the speakers to replace a very old pair of Bose 201's that have been workhorses for many, many, years. I was just speechless at the difference in sound quality in all respects! Thanks for all you do for all of us! All the best!
The T1+ you mention at the end is interesting. Looking forward to the review coming soon Steve.
I really like how you test a $200 speaker with a $300 amplifier and not a flagship McIntosh which could give an unrealistic presentation of what the speaker would do in most situations
Your enthusiasm shines through you have had a great start to your day you are a lucky guy today
Excellénce is a daily experience and expectations are always high and Steve’s Reviews are “spot on”, concise and with his unique perspectives that capture our attention and draw us further into a celebration of sounds. I would also love to hear Steve give us a tour of his art collection we see in the background. Another great presentation wrapped in another cool shirt. 👍🏻
@zakofrx
2 жыл бұрын
Opppoppoppppppppppppopopppppppppppppp
Your shirts are fantastic 👌. Really good review. Thanks for featuring audiophile equipment for beginners and budget minded.
Fantastic channel. I love your comparisons and descriptions. I think I may get myself the Emotiva B1+ and the Klipsch RP-600m in a year or two and I'll A/B them in two different rooms with my 4 channel amp.
Man. This reminded me of why I got into your channel in the first instance.
You’re content is always great! Thank you 🙏🏾
Looking at buying both the Airmotiv T2+ and the Reisong a10 pretty crazy that you’ve come across them as well. Looking forward to your reviews 🤟🏽🤟🏽🤟🏽👌🏽
Lol I actually wanted to get this reisong amp. Good to know that you have it in for review.
@millerforester6237
3 жыл бұрын
WHAT WOULD YOU SUGGEST?
Thank you for your experienced commentary. I used to read Stereo Review as a nine year old and gaze at the equipment ads, wishing...I mightlook at getting your Denon amp, or look for a receiver sometime.
Wow your 70 unreal your show is great love the advice and thanks from all in Ireland keep up the good work love the shirts
@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac
4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Ian!
Nice review, nice to see audio equipment that doesn't cost several mortgage payments!
Just got my pair of B1+'s last week. Loving them so far!
@4DTravelr
2 жыл бұрын
How's the bass? I have the Airmotiv 4s, which tho flawed, have monster (tho a tad muddy) bass, when set to the "0" setting. Meanwhile, a bit too bright when set to the "-2" setting, and there is no "-1" setting, hence my dilemma. I know the B1+ will be a better product overall but I don't wanna lose not needing a subwoofer and just ripping drum n bass tracks in the "0" setting lol. But am also tired of adjusting the bass switch all the time for different music.
Because of cost in the UK I purchased the elecs b5.2 2.0 I hope I'm not gonna be disappointed because I really like the look of these speakers also. Great reviews keep up the good work 👍
The number of great speakers selling for just a few hundred dollars is amazing. You can build a great system without going broke.
@Jeton6
4 жыл бұрын
I hope he does a head to head someday, comparing these to R51m's and 1st gen ELAC Debut's, along with any other worthy rivals.
@lukecharles7376
4 жыл бұрын
dell177 HAVE you tried a set? I wonder what the bass is like.
@scottyo64
4 жыл бұрын
@@lukecharles7376 its a bookshelf speaker, nuff said
@dell177
4 жыл бұрын
@@lukecharles7376 I don't have those but I have a pair of Alex Jones BS-22's and those still amaze me for the cost. I wish the Elac Adante's were good a bang for the buck
@willyvlyminck201
4 жыл бұрын
dell177 Thx to slavery labour in some countries
Love your work. Keep doing what you do.
Thanks for giving some much deserved credit to Emotiva. I have the Emotiva ERC 3 CD player and Emotiva amp and they are well built sound great and function flawlessly. The build quality of Emotiva is much better then some of the more expensive audio equipment out there.
Love me a budget system Steve. Thanks for this review.
Getting back into stereo music. Ended up getting an Emotiva 2.1 system: B1+ bookshelf speakers, SE8 sub, and BASX TA1 integrated amp. Originally was going to get the Denon PE600 but Emotiva gives 20% back in Emotiva $ so the BASX TA1 ended up being less expensive than the Denon! Free shipping from Franklin TN was about 2-3 days from day of order since I live about 100 miles away. So far love the great accuracy and imaging - being able to pick out every instrument and location.
Set up a desk top system based on your recommendations: Dayton Audio DTA-2 amp and B652-Air speakers (with Dayton Audio MKSX4 passive sub). Today I received a pair of the Emotiva Airmotiv B1+ (very fast shipping from Emotiva!) While the B652's were great for listening to Pandora and my Apple playlists, these Emotiva's are awesome! Love how even at low volumes I can pick out every instrument and vocal - great imaging and clarity. Thought about going ahead and getting Emotiva towers to eventually move into the living room, but I am very happy Airmotiv B1+ speakers for my study/office - perfect for near field stereo.
Glad to have your reviews of affordable stuff, Steve. You enticed me to get a pair of 600M's and that Denon PMA600 amp... and I think I'm done. I'm a jazz, classical, acoustic folk kinda guy, but I had a visitor over the other day and played some streamed Led Zeppelin, Rush, and Carlos Santana stuff -- and *I* was blown away. (To be fair, there's a JBL sub in the speaker mix.) This week I was in Key West, and I heard Larry Baeder / Larry Bowen and the band at the Green Parrot. As an EE, I'd guess it would take 5000 watts to try to recreate that live sound. Likely more.
Just off first glance our personalities are different but man I'd love to hang out for a day and listen to music and hear you talk about music and equipment. I know it was be amazing and fun. Thanks for the review
Thanks Steve for yet another EPIC review.
I'm curious how these sound compared to your current reference, the Elac reference?
Good to see you excited about some good speakers
Have gone from audio hiend jewelery to EMOTIVA's TOTL. Remarkable product, sound and customer service. Mention of the agreed remarkable at that price! B1+ relative to the Klipsch 600s was an extrememly helpful reference/reality check. Thanks Steve.
Thank you Steve for the great review. I just purchased these and am eager to see how they compare to the Elac b6.2's that I really love. Will be driving them with another of your recommendations that I use everyday, the little Dayton Audio DTA-2.1BT.
@jonpeirce4748
4 жыл бұрын
Let us know which you liked the best
@KrishSingh
4 жыл бұрын
@@jonpeirce4748 still patiently waiting for emotiva to ship them. Taking for ever even though they are in stock right now
@sinswithin
4 жыл бұрын
@@KrishSingh How about now?
@KrishSingh
3 жыл бұрын
@@sinswithin I ended up using a Denon DRA-800H and have both the emotivas and Elac b6.2's connected as A and B. Switching back and forth, the Elacs sound warmer and meatier for lack of a better description. But the Emotiva's seem to have better vocals and details. Since the Emotiva's have better near field, i will repurpose them as computer speakers and stick to the Elacs as my primary speakers.
Just set these up earlier this week, upgraded from the Sony SSCS5. Amazing little speaker. Sound is a lot cleaner, more transparent and holographic, better imaging and separation, bigger soundstage... really great overall. I wanted to hear what these folded ribbons sounded like, and I get what other reviewers have said about them being faster, more detailed yet not fatiguing. Super impressed.
@joshblank1
Жыл бұрын
I listen to rock and metal. I ordered these and am waiting to test out. I like Grado headphones (forward mids & highs, clarity). Hoping the Emotiva comes close to this signature
How do they compare to the Elac's of the same price range? thanks
Love your content it's always such a lesson...
Steve my friend I just received a pair this afternoon and I can say they sound awesome
Amazing review as always! Thanks
Hi Steve! Thanks for the great information on audio products. Have you ever done a video on how to pair different components? I'm inclined to buying online because it's cheaper, but on the other hand, you cannot audition the components. How do you know what goes well with what? Like for example amps and speakers,...
Thanks a lot Steve. Emotiva doesn't usually supply products to reviewers. Glad you are able to review some. Perhaps you can pair the towers with their A-100 stereo flex amp. In case you're interested. The T-Zero is the two-way floor standing version of this loudspeaker. The T-1+ and T-2+ are three-way floor standers. Suggest trying risers with the two smaller floor standing speakers if you audition them.
@amb3cog
4 жыл бұрын
Huh? 😲 I just Googled "Emotiva Reviews", and there's basically an endless string of Emotiva reviews on the web, and in magazines. I seriously doubt all those reviewers bought all that gear themselves.
@cliffordcostley9798
4 жыл бұрын
@@amb3cog My error. I was addressing the T-1+, T-2+ and the T-Zero. I have seen very few reviews from sites that I frequent. And yes I have gotten the impression that some reviewers have been asked for front money. Possibly because Emotiva wants to ensure return of their equipment in a timely manner. In addition, many of the reviews do not appear to be professional which I pretty much discount and consider the products probably not manufacturer sourced. Finally many reviews are prefaced with a disclaimer stating that the equipment supplied is not manufacturer sourced.
Hi Steve! Thanks for the video, I was really into these speakers but not a big fan of what they look like. Do you have any suggestions on something comparable that looks a little more traditional?
Ordered it for my small computer room. Thank you.
Looking forward to the tube amp review...the $350 price point might entice folks to give tubes a try...once you do, like me...never go back to SS.
Brings back memories of the Dynaco A-10 loudspeaker!
Hi Steve! Do you have any plans to review any Odyssey equipment such as the Candela or the Khartago?
Steve I have a 160 ft2 room. Would these work well. Any tips for making the room as resonant as possible given its small size? The walls are lined with casement bookshelf's which almost reach the ceiling of one of the walls. Thanks
Hey Steve Are these less directional then most of klipsch's 90x90 horns or worse?
How does it compare with the Elac Debut 2.0 B5 or B6?
Hi Steve I just started watching your videos and have learned a lot. I recently picked up a set of Martin Logan motion 40 towers used along with a ML 600w Sub and paired with a Yamaha rxa770 receiver. Sounds good together but seams like it’s not alive if you know what I mean. I mostly listen to classic rock and some country so just not quite sure if I should keep what I have or start over so curious to get your input on Martin Logan. Any recommendations would be great. Thanks Bart
A great and very passionate review of the Emotiva B1+ speakers. You might just have me sold, especially if they would compliment my little Totem Mites in a surround sound system. Personally, I was looking for a pair of speakers that would deliver the old school rich yet detailed Tannoy sound of the 80's for under $600 if possible. I welcome any other suggestions that you may have. I know that you know and value quality audio. I recognize your name from yesteryear. Thanks for all you do, Steve. Zee Ottawa, Ontario Canada
Steve I found a Denon DP-29F turntable on craigslist for $100 still sealed in the box is this a decent turntable?
Never been disappointed with a ribbon speaker. They just sounds so natural.
@bryede
4 жыл бұрын
Not a ribbon tweeter though. AMT tweeters work on a different principle.
I looked on Emotivas website and I really liked the look and price of their C1+ center channel to go along with these B1+’s. Strange though. These B1+’s are 8 ohm speakers, but the C1+ is 4 ohm. Can a typical receiver handle that? Would you just set the receiver to 4 ohm?
The + version according to Emotiva has an updated crossover.
Steve, I know they are different things, but you have any idea how these compares to Andrew Jones Pioneer SP-FS52 Tower Speakers?
Thanks for the review, Steve. Can you compare it to the Airmotiv 5S (or 4S) that you reviewed (and loved) a while back?
I’ve had the emotiva 4s for a couple years. They are SO GREAT.
@4DTravelr
2 жыл бұрын
I have the 4s as well. Very awesome, my only issue is, the bass setting is only -2, 0, or -4. I switch to 0 when I want giant bass, and -2 when I want less, but neither is perfect for all music! I'm always switching it back and forth. My hope is the B1+'s just sound right without adjustment for everything.
@lwwells
2 жыл бұрын
@@4DTravelr So the B1+ is nice? I'm afraid to change them. I don't think I'll touch this setup until I can afford some real 'statement' speakers.
Steve, what more information do you have on the tweeter? Is it wide dispersion horizontally/vertically?
Love to see a review of the Musical Paradise MP 301 mk3 tube amp
Hi Steve, are these speakers a good match for a SX550 Receiver?
Steve, you should have a contest where the winner can stop by your place for like 2hrs with their favorite music. If I where the winner, I would bring your favorite dish.
Hi Steve i really enjoyed watching your videos. Not only they are informative you also make the videos fun to watch. I myself is a purist when it comes to listening to music but also i am new to buying or building my new set up. What are your thoughts about airmotive b1 and ta 100 combo. Any suggestions.
Anyone know where I can buy a pair of these? When I do a search I find information on the speakers, but not on where they can be found.
How would you say these compare to the Adam Audio T5V(Studio Monitor)
Steve, can you compare this to the more popular ones like the Elac B6.2 or the Klipsch RP600M
Excited for your take on the Reisong. These would maybe be good for 2.1 tv setup too?
Great video for the rest of us. 👍👍👍
@Steve, thanks a lot for the wonderful review. I was wondering how would compare this to Martin Logan Motion 15i speakers or other foundation motion bookshelf speakers in terms of its clarity, openness and dispersion? Was thinking of deciding which one to choose out of the two. Thanks a lot 😊
Finally ordered a pair tonight
The Elac B6 or Airmotiv B1 ? If you had to choose. (I have the Elacs.)
I went to look for a pair.. They are sold out.. AHHHHH.. LOL :) BTW.. Love your Channel Steve.. A good way to keep up with the latest trends and your reviewing knowledge. Also, I think there is a lot of guys that like buying ( collecting) and trying all the new components. Like having a car collection and driving which ever car you what, that you feel like driving that day.. Thanks Steve..
Can you rate in order these speakers? Psb p5, Elac or this emotiva.
Thank you Steve, I’m not sure if the B1+ is available in the UK, but retail on the B1 was 379 Sterling. I know that there is shipping cost involved to the UK and taxes to pay, but I find Emotiva pricing outside of the USA to be significantly higher, to the point that the brand isn’t competitive in the global market. I expect UK customers may get better value from the Elac offerings
What do you think about the JBL Studio 530 speakers. I’m thinking about buying them.
How would they react with an inexpensive subwoofer in the chain?
How do these compare to the Elac Unifi UB5 bookshelf spkrs?
How are these compared to MartinLogan bookshelves such as LX16 or ML 15? I have all ML in my house but may consider these for my basement system if they sound similar
Have you ever tested the HSU Research HB-1 mk2? If so....how does it compare to these?
Excuse me sir,but what amp do you recommed as the sweet spot for driving Emotiva T2+ tallboys?Am planning my set up.Would be glad if you could help.
I got Adam A3X, studio monitors. Both drivers on that speaker look almost identical to Adam's. Any chance they use Adam speakers? Or both companies getting them from single source?
It's a shame that these are double the price where I live. What would you recommend as a good pair of active bookshelf speakers in the $250-350 price range used primarily for listening to music through my PC or phone? I currently own cheap M-Audio AV42s and I'm not very happy with how they sound. Would the AudioEngine A2+ be a big step up from what I have or should I go for the A5+? Thanks.
These or the JBL stage a130’s any thoughts??
What crossover did you set them to? I've seen between 60 to 80hz. But was curious to your settings.
Thank You Steve. Will get these.
If use T1+ floor speaker to those in cinema system with my Sony 1080 reciver do that be s great Thing to do ???
hallo, emotiva is better than klipsch r51? together whit dennon 600?
What is your favorite active small speaker equivalent to these?
Can't find the Emotiva B1+'s forsale anywhere.
What do you think about Rockville amps?
Is the ported design inappropriate for using this model against the wall for near field listening? I think they're the right size for using on my computer desk for music but I don't know if it'd be wise or the sound quality would be strongly degraded. Help on this please! Any tips? Thanks.
Steve, my immediate impressions of these are: excellent Clarity, and Definition / Separation of the Music ... however, it is a bit on the bright side.... playing it with IOTA SA3 Preamp with a Emotiva A-300 Amp. How do you compare them to Emotiva T0+ or even their T1+ ?
Is it self amplified or does it require an external amp? I'd like to run it from my computer through an RME AD/DA.
can someone share how these speakers compare to some of ELACs entry level speakers(debut b6, b6.2, b5.2) i am curious how they hold up
How would these compare to the Elac B6.2
Steve, like many speaker reviews I hear and see, there seem that a"break in" period is required . I'm 69 YO, and until this past year that I embarked on buying new stereo equipment for my Finished Basement COVID Studio.... A New Denon DRA-800H Receiver which I will use for Video , but only for 2.1 channel stereo now, New Elac Debut 6.2s , new Fluance Signature Series Bookshelfs, new pair of Elac Debut Reference 6.2s , Trying a new pair of Sony CSS5s, and finally just received new Emotiva B1+s..... I know , Overkill , but what the Hell , I'm retired and NOW have the time to deal with my life's pleasure (Oh yeah I started playing Drums again in the Studio after a 51 year Hiatus), and also went crazy and got a IOTA SA3 and Emotiva A-300 Amp. Right now I have the References hooked up in parallel with the Sonys on the B connection of the Denon in the rear of the room. Then I have the Elac Debuts hooked up to the Emotiva Amp, which is connected to the IOTA SA3 to which I have the Fluances connected. So the 2 pairs of speakers FILL the Room , like a concert hall IMO. So now, I am "testing" the B1S with the References (paralleled) against the Sonys paired with the References.... I will tell you, off the bat, the B1s have more punch than the Sonys , but perhaps a little less high end clarity than the Sonys. Back to the original question: Do you really need to Break in Speakers ??? Many out there say yes... PS: I know this is a Audiophile Faux Paux.... But again WTF !!!
Is amp Technics su a600 40w+40w rms 8ohms is be enough for small room?
Would these be better than the Q Acoustics Concept 20?
Great review!
I'm a classical listener (along with some jazz, broadway shows, and folk...but mostly classical). I have ordered these speakers. Do you recommend the The Emotiva Airmotiv S8 subwoofer to extend the bottom for music (this is not a home theater application). I played the double-bass (violin) myself in symphony work for 6 years (as a mechanical engineering student). The E string (lowest on a 4 string bass) is about 30 Hz. Is the subwoofer "necessary" (to round out the sound) or are the B1+'s good enough on their own?
Does Steve use digital input or vinyl?
Are Emotiva products only available in the States ?