Therefore I went into different electric markets to audition as many different plants. At the same time I have also different tower speaker (ELAC FS247, KEF IQ70) belongs, as I would like to share my hi-fi equipment in the living room. Therefore I also have a comparison with top-class speakers and -AV receivers.
The following compact units came to me after the trial hearing shortlisted: Philips MCD716, Denon M38 and the Kenwood K-521st
Ultimately, I decided for the Kenwood K-521. This ZIP points were crucial:
- For me the best sound subjectively
- For the size and the price is very good speaker, the much "bigger" sound than they are
- Each 1 digital optical input and output (I know of no other compact system with this feature)
- 2 analog inputs (Aux and D.In -> this is no digital input, but a 3.5 Milimter- jack input for MP3 players.)
- Simple, intuitive operation
- High quality
- Simple but beautiful design
My Settings with standard speakers: D-bass +3, +2 Bass @ 150Hz
My conclusion: The Kenwood K-521 is very good compact plant that is worth every euro. I would buy me at any time. The best sound is only achieved with higher quality speakers. Listening to music just makes so plain fun!
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Experience report and addendum to my review:
It is also important at this hifi system that the speakers and especially the tweeter at ear level are. In addition, should 10-20 cm from the wall are respected, as is the bass reflex tube on the back of the LS. I have therefore bought speaker stand with a height of 56cm.
Otherwise, I have tested the following speakers at the K-521:
- Used LS Philips MCD 716 with ribbon tweeter: a finer resolution in the treble range, but slightly unpräziserer Bass
- Denon SC-M37 (LS of Denon M-38): has not so well in harmony with the plant, were also a little quieter by 6 Ohm impedance
- Canton Chrono 502: fine high frequency resolution by aluminum dome, Bass also very good, but needs a larger listening distance. The LS is a very good choice for classical and jazz lovers. The tower speaker (Chrono 507 + 509) are connected to the K-521 certainly combine well (but I have not tried).
Finally, I would note that the compact system should not be combined with to "analytical" speakers, as it already has been quite a high fine resolution. The result could be an "annoying" Central and treble.