My husband is a “speaker snob” - while I can hardly tell the difference between an IKEA speaker and his Studio Lab speakers.

I frequent thrift stores - and this is might sound bad - but the ones run by “older” volunteers typically don’t mark up higher end goods (I’ve literally scored brand name clothing that should be $200+ per item for a few bucks.

Anyway. I see speakers all the time. I came across Polk Audio speakers for $20, did some research, it appeared they were a stop brand - but when I brought them home to surprise him, it was basically a “thanks but no thanks”.

I asked him if there’s a certain brand I should be on the lookout for, and he said speakers are a complex world 😑

I’d still love to surprise him with an exciting find - we can’t afford new, high quality speakers, so I’m hoping to score a win! What things should I keep in mind while out and about? Are there certain brands that are a score either way?

Thanks!

  • yack59BEnglish
    1·
    10 months ago

    some prejudices i live by, i could be wrong sometimes but:

    I think a good rule is to eliminate any speaker by a brand that is famous for making electronics - amps, receivers, TVs, etc. So no Sony, no Pioneer, no JVC, no Onkyo, no Yamaha, no Panasonic, no Samsung, no LG, no Vizio, for speakers.

    Made in USA is usually a good sign. Made is Denmark (or if any parts inside are made in Denmark) that is a great sign. Made in the UK is good too.

    Then also, see if you can look up a review.