Desktop active speakers

setanta1984

Hi guys,

Looking for new active speakers for desktop use with a mac mini and macbook pro primarily.

I see that you have the Ruark MR1 MK2 available on the website - are you planning to stock the new MK3 version that was just released last week? I believe these Ruarks are well regarded?

I am very tempted by the KEF LSX II (or LT version) - they look beautiful and reviews seem to suggest they sound equally as good - I am a little put off by the amount of "smarts" they rely on however as the app seems to be the primary way of interacting with them (lack of accessible source switching volume buttons etc.) - also worried they may become useless after KEF eventually drop support for them - will they still work plug and play many years from now etc. The Ruarks just have a volume knob and source button as far as I can see.

Do you guys think the KEFs are worth the extra money and reliability concerns over the new Ruarks? Or any other small footprint speakers I should consider?

Thanks as usual for your input!

Richersounds.ie: DavidS

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058415599/desktop-active-speakers

Hi Setanta1984, apologies for the delay getting back to your post.

Both are brilliant speakers but the Kefs are definitely a big step up over the Ruarks for sound quality. The LSX have better drivers and cabinets and a better amp, they're one of the best active speakers on the market and being honest we've sold a few of them and have had no reliability issues with them with our customers. App support with the major hifi brands is generally very good (sometimes the app design leaves a lot to be desired) but brands like Naim still have some really old legacy streamers that are still supported via their app.

The Ruarks are a great option but if you're looking for better sound quality I defininitely think the Kefs are worth the extra.

Please don't hesitate to drop me a post if you'd like to go for either of those.

Kind regards

David

setanta1984

Hi David, thanks so much for the reply.

I am very tempted by the KEFs, but a few niggles have me second guessing - lack of on-speaker physical volume and source selection being one, and how well they'll deal with multiple sources (I'd like to connect two mac computers to them).

It's got me thinking would a better solution for desktop use be a small amplifier and passive speakers - would you happen to have any suggestions for a small amp + speaker combo that would match the KEFs for sound quality? Or would the KEFs be a better shout for the price? The footprint of the speakers would need to be similar to the KEFs to fit on the desk - I also have an ifi zen dac 3 on my desk I get from ye that I am using for headphones at the moment, if that useful in the chain.

Thanks again for your input.

Richersounds.ie: Kenny

Hey Setanta1984.

If you wanted to go down the separate route then you could use the Argon Audio SA1 MK2, it is an amp and a streamer in one. Priced at €329

https://euro.richersounds.ie/p-208992-argon-audio-sa1-mk2-black-6yr-stereo-amplifier-with-bluetooth.aspx

Pair it with the Fyne Audio F5E priced at €399

https://euro.richersounds.ie/p-15459-fyne-audio-f5e-black-6yr-speakers-per-pair-including-6-year-guarantee.aspx

Or the Fyne Audio F500 which are priced at €599

https://euro.richersounds.ie/p-203723-fyne-audio-f500-black-oak-6yr-speakers-per-pair-including-6-year-guarantee.aspx

Add in some QED XT25 speaker cable and you would have a great little setup.

https://euro.richersounds.ie/p-203183-qed-xt25-meter-speaker-cable-per-metre.aspx

Let me know your thoughts.

setanta1984

Thanks Kenny - the F500 would definitely be too big to fit on my desk, the F5E should be doable though.

In your opinion which would give the better sound for desktop use being only a foot or two away from the ears - the all in one KEF LSX IIs or the argon amp + F5Es?

Thank you

Richersounds.ie: Kenny

Hey Setanta.

The KEF LX II will be the better setup to be honest. The Argon will do a great job but the KEF's would pip them on functionality.
You would need to go for a better amp, something like the Powernode Edge N230. This and the Fynes would give the KEF's a run for their money.

https://euro.richersounds.ie/p-14994-bluesound-powernode-edge-n230-black-wireless-music-streaming-amplifier.aspx

setanta1984

Sounds like the KEF's are the way to go then :)
Do ye stock the desk pads for them by any chance? I couldn't find them on the website

Richersounds.ie: Kenny

Hey Setanta.

The desk pads are not a stock item but I'm sure I could special order them in from our supplier.

They retail at £139 / €165

setanta1984

Thanks very much for the great advice as usual Kenny/David - just ordered the LSX II LT in Stone White on the website, will see how I get on without the stands first. :)

Richersounds.ie: Kenny

Thanks for the order Setanta1984.

We'll get it processed and keep you posted on delivery.

Thanks again for the business we really do appreciate it.