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Getting a new pair of Audio Engine HD6 Speakers

I already own a pair of their previous powered speakers, the A5+, and I love their sound, size, ease of use, and styling. They were a great investment.

I was looking for a specific set of features which allowed me to forego the traditional receiver in a very basic TV setup. There were loads of great looking speakers which fit into my feature requirements, but I was unfamiliar with the sound most of the affordable models or their siblings might provide. Brands like Edifier, Rockville, Pyle and others, and while the Klipsch models looks decent I knew I didn't want that sound signature. Since I was very familiar with Audio Engine's sound character, quality, and style, I decided to go with them. Since I purchased them on Amazon, it will be relatively easy to return them if I don't like them.

If this system were going to get more use, I may have gone with the Dynaudio or KEF models.
 
Dentman said:
That's crazy. What should the buyer look for in a high quality Class D amp? Or are they all just that good now (With exception to cheap products found in a dollar type store)?
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They are essentially appliances at this point. However just like appliances like toasters, there can be variations in quality so the really cheapy ones are going to be shit - no surprise there. The basic "D" modules are usually made by specialist companies; ATI, and Theta use the N-Core ones, but others are the "ICE" and a couple others. They all work on the same principle of PWM, or pulse width modulation, which is the same basic technology which SACD uses and also the light dimmers in your wall outlets, and controllers which throttle the electric motors in cars etc.
 
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rammisframmis said:
They are essentially appliances at this point. However just like appliances like toasters, there can be variations in quality so the really cheapy ones are going to be shit - no surprise there. The basic "D" modules are usually made by specialist companies; ATI, and Theta use the N-Core ones, but others are the "ICE" and a couple others. They all work on the same principle of PWM, or pulse width modulation, which is the same basic technology which SACD uses and also the light dimmers in your wall outlets, and controllers which throttle the electric motors in cars etc.
Click to expand...
Thanks for the info. Is that the same "Theta" the amp builder?
 
I got an email from the seller last night. They discovered they could recall the shipment via FedEx and are now shipping the correct speakers, so while I won't get them on Wednesday like I would have with the accidental shipment, I will get them Thursday or Friday. That was good. I am not angry anymore.
 
I received the Audio Engine HD6 speakers yesterday and immediately unboxed them and installed them in their final target location. They are extremely well made - like WAY better than they look in the promotional photos. They are also very solid.

Once I got them hooked up and operating, I found them to sound pretty damn good. The treble was smooth, natural, and balanced and the midrange was clear and easy to pick out detail. The bass range, however, wasn't nearly as clean as I had expected. The older model, the A5+, has a tighter and cleaner bass, though not as pronounced. In fact, the bass of the HD6 was too strong - maybe if they were mounted on stand well away from any walls they would sound better, but that isn't an option for me. If that situation ever become an option, I would move these to the new open installation spot and put something else with the 3rd TV rig which requires the speakers be crammed up against the wall.

The HD6 speakers has plenty of inputs: Analog RCA, Analog 1/8 inch jack, Digital Toslink, and Digital via Bluetooth. I did try out all the inputs and they all performed flawlessly within the limits of the technology. The little adjustable antenna for Bluetooth worked well to extend the range considerably.

Over all I am very pleased with these speakers. They are well worth the price if the stronger upper bass output balance is acceptable.
 
I was going to mention that the only thing you’re going up with this setup vs a receiver was tone controls and the ability to switch to audio only sources. But I’m super glad it’s working for you.

Would you consider “down grading” to the A5+?
 
Towen7 said:
I was going to mention that the only thing you’re going up with this setup vs a receiver was tone controls and the ability to switch to audio only sources. But I’m super glad it’s working for you.

Would you consider “down grading” to the A5+?
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For my use, I would prefer the A5+, though they aren't as sexy looking as the HD6.
 
Randy said:
Any more thoughts on these?
HD6 or A5+?
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For sheer audio performance, the A5+ is the better speaker. For flexibility, connectivity options, and classic good looks, I prefer the HD6. What is important to you? I have both! I put the A5+ in my master bedroom where I hear them all the time. I put the HD6 in my guest room where I will almost never listen to them. They both serve their purpose and are a good value for the money, but they serve different purposes.
 
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