I've been watching the new wave of home sound system speakers for a while now and I'm not convinced they're all that revolutionary. It seems like every year there's another 'breakthrough' in wireless connectivity or smart features, but when it comes down to pure sound quality, are we really seeing any substantive improvements over tried-and-true designs?
Take the latest models boasting immersive surround sound and AI integration—sure, they sound impressive on paper. But I've seen plenty of cases where these systems are more about style and gimmicks rather than true sonic performance. Is it possible that we're paying a premium for flashy software and connectivity that doesn’t necessarily translate into a better musical experience?
For those who have been in the game as long as I have, how do you feel about these so-called innovations? Are modern speakers actually pushing the envelope in fidelity and dynamics, or are manufacturers just rehashing old designs with a new coat of digital paint? Keen to hear your real-world experiences, especially if you've gone back to basics with some classic audiophile setups instead of chasing trends.