How do you describe the LSi7 sound?

pyrocyborg

Hi!

I am about to return my RTiA3 and pull the trigger on a set of LSi7 (I'm looking for small/medium bookshelf), but I would like to know if it would fit my taste... as I want something more musical than my RTi, as I listen to music most of the time. As they are discounted now, it may be a better value than it was before. I don't wanna pay a full price speaker, except if it offers very very good performance for it's price.

I've tried to read a few reviews, but I've found almost nothing of value, some small reviews from customers, and next to no pro reviews.

I do not really know what LSi7 sounds like, and as there is none left to sell up here, I can't demo it. However, I know that according to a lot of people, they're more musical than the RTi or RTiA line, which I own.

I'm in a small place, listening at something like 8-9 feet from the speakers, and a wall is right behind me. I would qualify RTI as being bright, sometime harsh, so I want something that isn't as bright or as forward.

I know LSi9 go lower, have better mid-bass, but I don't think I can afford them, nor could my stands withstand their heavy weight... so I wanna know how LSi7 sounds in small to medium space: I can take them about 1 feet from the rear wall, but that's about all.

I know they are laid back when considered to RTi, but are they as much detailed, without sounding harsh? I want a good bunch of details, but no fatiguing high... However, I want to be able to feel the music, if possible. I listen a lot of jazz, blues, but as lot of everything, so an all-around speaker is welcome.

mdaudioguy

Smooth and detailed. You'll be pleased if music is important to you. The low end is enough for me, if I'm not being too critical. A little Micropro sub would add plenty, but certainly not necessary to enjoy them.

pyrocyborg

Oh yeah thanks! I'm not bass heavy guy, I like a somewhat warm sound... so RTi are far from this, was great for HT, not so much for music (at least, to my taste)... but I do not plan to add a sub. I mean, I like the bass in my RTiA3 as they are. Considering the LSi are only 3Hz less at -3dB, I could say that it's probably what I want for now.

dorokusai

I like the smooth and detailed comment. I'd add punchy and warm and as far as subwoofers go, you don't need one but if you have to pick one up, get something small and tightly wound. I'd pick the PSW111 or the higher end choice, MicroPro2K since it has room correction and the 1K is being dropped. Get the 1K if you can get a smoking price on it but otherwise get the better model.

pyrocyborg

Allright! And what about their sound at lower volume? Is it congested, not a detailed, etc. or does it sound good? Because I listen to my music when I study, and to achieve that, I must listen at something below 55-60 dB. If they sound as good (or better) as the RTi in these conditions, it would be great.

pyrocyborg

Also... People keep on telling that LSi needs big power. Is it the case for LSi7 too? I have a NAD C326BEE rated 2x50w @ 4 ohms, is it enough? I don't crank it, but keep it at medium level.

NewHTguy

pyrocyborg wrote: »

Allright! And what about their sound at lower volume? Is it congested, not a detailed, etc. or does it sound good? Because I listen to my music when I study, and to achieve that, I must listen at something below 55-60 dB. If they sound as good (or better) as the RTi in these conditions, it would be great.

I listen to mine at low volumes and they sound great. If I were you I'd buy them before they're gone. I just ordered a second pair for $340 to use as surrounds from Acoustic Sound Design (use TV15 coupon code to get 15% off the $399 price). Don't know if they ship to Canada, but I would be surprised if not.

NewHTguy

Forgot to mention. I wouldn't rush to buy a sub until you've tried them. I prefer using a small sub with them, partly because I've become accustomed to Lsi25s, but you might not need/want one.

pyrocyborg

NewHTguy wrote: »

I listen to mine at low volumes and they sound great. If I were you I'd buy them before they're gone. I just ordered a second pair for $340 to use as surrounds from Acoustic Sound Design (use TV15 coupon code to get 15% off the $399 price). Don't know if they ship to Canada, but I would be surprised if not.

There is Sound Distributors that ships to Canada, but heir TV15 code doesn't work in Canada, as they pay the shipping price, which is fair IMO... Tried Acoustic Sound Design, but at the checkout, I can't select canada. Anyways, both are at the same price... are they brother/cousins because both are from Nevada selling the same products at the same price?

But yeah, you're right, that's why I was asking that very fast about the LSI7. I'm bringing back my RTiA3 tomorrow morning, and hope there is still an ebony pair left! Too bad that I'll have some crappy Bose speakers for a few weeks... lol

NewHTguy

pyrocyborg wrote: »

There is Sound Distributors that ships to Canada, but heir TV15 code doesn't work in Canada, as they pay the shipping price, which is fair IMO... Tried Acoustic Sound Design, but at the checkout, I can't select canada. Anyways, both are at the same price... are they brother/cousins because both are from Nevada selling the same products at the same price?

But yeah, you're right, that's why I was asking that very fast about the LSI7. I'm bringing back my RTiA3 tomorrow morning, and hope there is still an ebony pair left! Too bad that I'll have some crappy Bose speakers for a few weeks... lol

I'm pretty sure ASD and SD are the same company. They seem to have increased the price on the Lsi7s by $25 on their website, but the Cherry 7s are still 399 on Amazon.

Oh well, good luck. I have no doubt you'll enjoy the 7s.

pyrocyborg

Thanks! Also, anyone can confirm that LSi7 will do good with my NAD C326BEE at 2x50w at 4 ohm? It can go down to 2 ohm, as I read, but I wouldn't trust that there is a lot of power. I mean, it's a 50w @ 8ohm rated integrated: It has no problem running my RTiA3 at respectable volumes with only a 1/12 turn of a the volume knob. How will it do when coupled to 4 ohm speakers? I never tried 4 ohms speakers... and people telling that LSi need a lot of power keeps me wondering if it's a good move, even if my listening area is kinda small.

mdaudioguy

pyrocyborg wrote: »

Thanks! Also, anyone can confirm that LSi7 will do good with my NAD C326BEE at 2x50w at 4 ohm? It can go down to 2 ohm, as I read, but I wouldn't trust that there is a lot of power. I mean, it's a 50w @ 8ohm rated integrated: It has no problem running my RTiA3 at respectable volumes with only a 1/12 turn of a the volume knob. How will it do when coupled to 4 ohm speakers? I never tried 4 ohms speakers... and people telling that LSi need a lot of power keeps me wondering if it's a good move, even if my listening area is kinda small.

I ran them with a Cambridge Audio integrated with similar specs. You'll be fine!

BeefJerky

pyrocyborg wrote: »

Thanks! Also, anyone can confirm that LSi7 will do good with my NAD C326BEE at 2x50w at 4 ohm? It can go down to 2 ohm, as I read, but I wouldn't trust that there is a lot of power. I mean, it's a 50w @ 8ohm rated integrated: It has no problem running my RTiA3 at respectable volumes with only a 1/12 turn of a the volume knob. How will it do when coupled to 4 ohm speakers? I never tried 4 ohms speakers... and people telling that LSi need a lot of power keeps me wondering if it's a good move, even if my listening area is kinda small.

You should be fine since it sounds like you're not listening at super high volumes. The LSi7 is the easiest of the LSi line to drive, and NADs are great. Also, according to NADs website, your model does have preamp outputs. This means you could always add an outboard amp later on if you decide you need or want more power.

dorokusai

pyrocyborg wrote: »

Allright! And what about their sound at lower volume? Is it congested, not a detailed, etc. or does it sound good? Because I listen to my music when I study, and to achieve that, I must listen at something below 55-60 dB. If they sound as good (or better) as the RTi in these conditions, it would be great.

It's already been mentioned that they are detailed.

pyrocyborg

I know... but some speakers, IMO, don't perform as well as lower volumes. However, it doesn't seem to be the case for this one. I guess I'm decided then! Thanks everyone for your help! For a little bit more than my previous RTiA3, it can't be bad.

heiney9

pyrocyborg wrote: »

I know... but some speakers, IMO, don't perform as well as lower volumes. However, it doesn't seem to be the case for this one. I guess I'm decided then! Thanks everyone for your help! For a little bit more than my previous RTiA3, it can't be bad.

That has a lot to do with gear choice.

The LSi 7's are far better at everything than the RTiA3. The only way to find out it to try them. Bookshelf speakers are easy to sell and with LSi's and the current pricing you won't lose any $$$ if you don't like them.

H9

gdpeck

BeefJerky wrote: »

You should be fine since it sounds like you're not listening at super high volumes. The LSi7 is the easiest of the LSi line to drive, and NADs are great. Also, according to NADs website, your model does have preamp outputs. This means you could always add an outboard amp later on if you decide you need or want more power.

I agree with everything everyone has said about the LSi7s. I had them paired with a NAD C720BEE stereo receiver which has some similarities with your NAD amp. I would have liked them better with a small sub, but your mileage may vary. Also, I believe that your issue with the amp being too loud with your current speakers may not be as severe with LSi7s.

pyrocyborg

heiney9 wrote: »

That has a lot to do with gear choice.

The LSi 7's are far better at everything than the RTiA3. The only way to find out it to try them. Bookshelf speakers are easy to sell and with LSi's and the current pricing you won't lose any $$$ if you don't like them.

H9

Thanks Heiney, you're most probably right. I just pulled the trigger and was able to get both free shipping and the 15% TV15 coupon from Acoustic Sound Design. With taxes, brokerage and every fee taken into consideration, it's a mere 70$ more than my RTiA3. Considering I might have a correct budget amp for those speakers, I guess I'll try it and sell them if I can't stand them... which I doubt because if there as good or better than, let's say B&W685, for half the price... it's a great deal. I'll just have to wait for 10-12 days for them to be at my door (except if something goes wrong).

pyrocyborg

gdpeck wrote: »

I agree with everything everyone has said about the LSi7s. I had them paired with a NAD C720BEE stereo receiver which has some similarities with your NAD amp. I would have liked them better with a small sub, but your mileage may vary. Also, I believe that your issue with the amp being too loud with your current speakers may not be as severe with LSi7s.

It won't probably even be an issue now... :P

With those savings, I might be able to get a sub in a year or so, if I ever need one. Thanks NewHTguy!

NewHTguy

pyrocyborg wrote: »

It won't probably even be an issue now... :P

With those savings, I might be able to get a sub in a year or so, if I ever need one. Thanks NewHTguy!

At $70 difference. Absolutely a no-brainer. I've seen people trying to sell used 7s on Audiogon for more than the price I paid. Not to mention the free shipping.

I love the fact that, unlike the 9s, they don't require an ext amp and can be placed close to a wall. I have mine on a (non-functioning) fireplace mantle and they sound great.

Enjoy!

EndersShadow

V

NewHTguy wrote: »

At $70 difference. Absolutely a no-brainer. I've seen people trying to sell used 7s on Audiogon for more than the price I paid. Not to mention the free shipping.

I love the fact that, unlike the 9s, they don't require an ext amp and can be placed close to a wall. I have mine on a (non-functioning) fireplace mantle and they sound great.

Enjoy!

I agree. I will probably be getting some 7s myself.

pyrocyborg

NewHTguy wrote: »

At $70 difference. Absolutely a no-brainer. I've seen people trying to sell used 7s on Audiogon for more than the price I paid. Not to mention the free shipping.

I love the fact that, unlike the 9s, they don't require an ext amp and can be placed close to a wall. I have mine on a (non-functioning) fireplace mantle and they sound great.

Enjoy!

Great to know! I will use them on not that sturdy stands which can support up to 25 lbs. Had no trouble with the RTi6 at 20 lbs and the RTiA3 at 17, so I think they should be fine at 21 lbs... let's hope! While I'm waiting for them, I'll probably try to reinforce my stands with more screws... so that they don't wobble anymore.

nhhiep

thanks for the VT15 coupon. just bought the lsi9s for $510, cheapest I've seen so far, even cheaper than Polk on Ebay.
Plan to biamp it with a 5 channel HK signature 5.1 amp with 100 WPC. enough?

NewHTguy

Nice. Make sure that amp is stable at 4 ohms. There are many threads on the topic.

pyrocyborg

NewHTguy wrote: »

Nice. Make sure that amp is stable at 4 ohms. There are many threads on the topic.

Woah, those guys are fast... Bought at 11:00 EST, shipped at 14:00, no hassle, no shipping fees to canada and 15% off! I know it's clearance stuff, but they're probably not making a lot of money shipping it to Canada... except if they have a deal with UPS.

The only drawback being... UPS itself. I've never seen a single package being shipped by them undamaged at my door. Let's hope it'll be allright this time.

Thanks again, I saved 75$ (15% off + duties): you made my day, my week and probably my month as I was looking for a new pair of bookshelf speaker comparable to 600-800$ ones in quality, while still being good looking speakers (like Mordaunt Short Mezzo 1; B&W 685 and such), without the price tag... hard as hell here in Canada. I always loved the look the of LSi line, but I thought they were simply too pricey for my budget a few years ago. Now, I can use all those efforts to do something else! :razz:

heiney9

You won't know if you saved duties or not, if it went UPS expect a bill a couple weeks later for duty fee's.

H9

pyrocyborg

heiney9 wrote: »

You won't know if you saved duties or not, if it went UPS expect a bill a couple weeks later for duty fee's.

H9

Well, in fact, I'm sure they'll bill me instantly at my door :P. However, at Sound Distributors, the Polk LSi7 were 425: I could not use the TV15 coupon code. By going with Acoustic Sound Design, I saved something like 65 bucks (coupon) + associated duties (5$). I'll still pay 90$ in duties/brokerage, as UPS always charge them, but it's way under any speaker I could get with these performance up here, as most products with on-par performance would retail for 600-650$ bucks here + 15% tax. Overall, I'm pleased with the 480 CDN final price, considering the RTiA3 costs 405 CDN...

However, I'm not sure about the Polk warranty being valid in Canada if you buy stuff from USA, even from an authorized detailer.

heiney9

That's what I meant brokerage. I stopped buying from Parts Connexion because if they send stuff UPS to the US it seems there is always a brokerage fee that shows up later.

I forgot you like in Canada.

H9

Drenis

heiney9 wrote: »

You won't know if you saved duties or not, if it went UPS expect a bill a couple weeks later for duty fee's.

H9

Depending on the service used, fee's/brokerage might be included. You get that with the higher pay service through UPS.

However if not and it's shipped at a lower rate, always better to clear customs yourself.

cnh

Great sound at bargain prices? NAD and LSI-7s. For a system that can "now" be had for much less than a grand. I'd say "try" to beat it! This is the main system in my home office. There are a lot of other things in there as well. And I've also tried the 7s on a 200 watt x 2 Adcom amp. I can safely say that the 50 watt NAD does NOT sound like it's that much weaker (sound'wise) compared to the powerhouse Adcom as far as powering the 7s is concerned. If you're in a small to mid-size room you won't notice almost "any" power difference.

I run mine in a small-mid room with no sub most of the time. And I really don't miss the super low end. Refined, detailed, musical, good imaging, warm...what's not to like? This set up is going to hang around for a long time (at least until I decide to upgrade to the new LSi bookshelves...which will be a while).

Your ears will thank you!

Have fun!

cnh

pyrocyborg

Thanks again cnh,

Now, I'm anticipating this more than ever... haha! I'm feeling like a teenager girl a day before her grad.