Comparison of external speakers for playing the Yamaha GENOS

Here are my subjective ratings of these speakers:



[1] Behringer B3031A – Rating 5/10

[2] JBL LSR4328P – Rating 6/10

[3] ADAM A7X with MAudio BX10s sub – Rating 7/10

[4] Tekton MOAB with Paradigm Servo 15 sub – Rating 9/10




The Behringer yields acceptable performance. It is the most affordable solution of the lot.

The JBL adds a little more bass extension and brings a little more clarity.

The ADAM A7X paired with a good quality subwoofer beats the above two and brings a whole new level of clarity, mid-range smoothness and high frequency extension. Every instrument in the sound filed can be tracked with razor sharp accuracy. The imaging is stellar.

The ADAM A7X on its own does not quite have the same bass extension as the JBL. You definitely need a sub to experience the full spectrum sound of the GENOS.

The MAudio BX10s sub is a good entry level sub to pair with the A7X. However, I got vastly deeper and tighter bass integration when I switched it out with the Paradigm Servo 15 sub.

If you were planning on using the ADAM A7X as near field monitors with your GENOS, it would be logical to get the Adam Sub10 designed specifically for them.


ADAM A7X with Sub10 matched 2.1 system



This would be an ideal near field monitoring set up for the Yamaha GENOS.

A step up would be to get the ADAM A77X paired with the Sub15 sub.


ADAM A77X wth Sub15 matched 2.1 system


This system can be used both for near field and mid field monitoring.

The Tekton MOABs coupled with the Paradigm Servo 15 sealed subwoofer elevates the GENOS to a whole new level of performance.

The soundstage suddenly expands wide and deep. You get to enjoy thunderous dynamics while still being able to listen to the micro dynamics and nuance of each instrument. Adding the Beryllium tweeters is an essential step to bring out the clarity and realism of the GENOS voices.

This is the system that gives you instant visceral satisfaction. You no longer need to strain your ears to hear subtle details. It is right there in front on you.

Use a clean analog mixer like the Mackie CR1604VLZ4 with a good quality Class A/AB power amp like the Parasound A21+ to drive the MOABs and you will be set in musical heaven for a lifetime.

The reason I have not given this set up a score of 10/10 is because I am fully aware of the existence of better speakers/amps that can push the sonic envelope even further.

A step up from the MOAB will be the Tekton Encores with the added Beryllium center tweeters.


Tekton ENCORES


Here is Clement Perry’s review:


http://v2.stereotimes.com/post/tekton-design-encore-loudspeaker/



This will make a fine far field monitoring setup in a music studio.

You can enhance the performance even further by using a pair of Revel Ultima Salon 2 speakers.

I have heard them demoed by its designer Kevin Voecks at past CES shows including several HiFi Audio Shows and local music dealers.

I agree with all the praise it got from Robert Harley in this glowing review:


REVEL Ultima Salon 2 Review


This is a Stereophile Class A full range speaker and has become a benchmark design. There are no other speakers that can outclass the performance of the Salon 2 at its price point.

The Salon 2 speakers are used in commercial mastering studios.

A step up from the Revel Salon 2 would be The Sonus Faber SE.

Only a limited number of dealers carry them. Jeff Dorgay visited LMC Home Entertainment in Scottsdale, AZ to audition them. Here is his review:


The SONUS FABER SE Review



I have personally heard them at the Rocky Mountain Audio Fest including Mike’ s carefully calibrated setup at LMC Home Entertainment in Scottsdale. They are breathtaking.

There are yet a few more transducers in the world that are designed to showcase what can be achieved with a price no object approach.

The most notable design is the Wilson Audio Chronosonic XVX. If you want to experience the ultimate playback system, it would be worthwhile to contact Mike for a demo session.

He has them mated to a pair of Wilson Thor’s Hammer Subs. The system is powered by Burmester electronics.

It was a religious experience for me!

Here is my review of the Chronosonic XVX (Post #166).


Wilson Audio Chronosonic XVX Review



This setup deserves a 10/10


You can read Michael Fremers’ in-depth review on Stereophile Magazine:

https://www.stereophile.com/content/wilson-audio-specialties-chronosonic-xvx-loudspeaker



Conclusion:


With the plethora of choices out there for getting the best sound from your YAMAHA GENOS using external speakers ranging from the affordable Behringer B3031A to professional Genelec and PMC monitors used in mastering studios to audiophile systems that cost more than a house, my recommendation would be to purchase the ADAM A7X 2.1 system featuring the ADAM Sub10.

This is the ideal mating at the right price point.

This is for your personal listening pleasure in your home. It will not work out as well if you are performing in front of a large audience. For that purpose, there are other PA solutions that would be more appropriate and transportable with easy setup and breakdown.

Best regards,

David