Hitmakers and OS TM Finished

[ameuba10]

It's Christmas time again, and that means gifts for the family. I got to build a couple kits that PE, and diysoundgroup has for sale. I must say Paul has two killer designs (I'm sure there's more ;))

First off, my comparison. I have a set of klipsch B2 bookshelf speakers that I found at the local habitat for humanity for a whooping $30! Definitely worth $30, I'm not sure they're worth the $250 msrp though. Overall, beautiful airy highs and a pretty forward midrange. Somewhat lacking in mid bass, but it's a 4.5" woofer IIRC. Powered by the audiosource amp 100. Sub is 10" BIC Venturi. Very fun set to listen to.

Now to the OS TM. Kit could not be easier to put together. Virtually dummy proof. It is more laid back compared to the klipsch, but I would assume most would. Pretty remarkable the mid bass out of these little guys! Buttery smooth midrange and a reserved high end. Although I find the Klipsch more fun to listen to, it is nowhere as detailed as the OS. A real bargain at the price. I'll be giving these to my sister along with a lepai for her TV. I don't expect her to be disappointed! Anyone beginning in diy audio must spare the $125 or so for this kit.

Lastly, we have the hitmakers; and the primary reason for this thread. These were made for my father because lately he has been spending much time on his computer jamming to pandora with the little 1-2" speakers the computer came with. So I thought I'd try out Paul's "studio monitors." I just finished them about a half hour ago and I am thoroughly impressed. I cannot wait till they get broken in more! Mid bass is pronounced and articulate. This was another main selling point for me, because he doesn't want a subwoofer. The midrange is there and definitely smooth and warm, but it's not overpowering. Overall this speaker is fantastic! It is very transparent, and has an airiness to them. The hitmakers crush the klipsch in every aspect! I honestly don't want to give them to him. He will get the hitmakers and an audiosource amp 100.

[Leroy R]

Re: Hitmakers and OS TM Finished

I'm getting dizzy looking at the pics. Seriously though, nice job. I'm sure your dad and sister will love them. I've built several of the OS's, but haven't heard the Hitmakers yet.

[PeterF]

Re: Hitmakers and OS TM Finished

how would you compare Hitmakers against OS?

[ameuba10]

Re: Hitmakers and OS TM Finished

Both are great, and i think have their own purposes. The OS TM is a little fire cracker. Small package but fire it up and its much bigger than it looks. Midbass is surprising relative to its size. I have my sisters set on the tv to break them in a bit, and it has spooked my wife a time or two. I think theres some midbass rumbling in some shows that tricks her into thinking someone is outside or something. Midrange is spectacular, and perfect for tv use over the crappy "speakers" in the tv. Theyre about as useful as a tin can and string.

The hitmakers on the other hand, is a different animal. Granted i have limited experience in speakers, this is the best sounding set that i own. Having the 7" woofer, compared to the 4" in the OS, theres deeper and more abundant midbass. Although the OS hits the lows, the hitmakers deliver it with authority and punch. The hitmakers are much more transparent as well. I can see how these could be used as studio monitors.

If youre on a budget, and want to just stick your toes in the water; by all means go OS TM. Stupid simple, and you will definitly grin when you first listen to them. If you have a bit more room to work with and slightly deeper pockets, the hitmakers would be my choice. Absolutely fantastic speaker!

[PeterF]

Re: Hitmakers and OS TM Finished

Thanks for the comparison. It is good to know your thoughts on Hitmakers, as there very little information on them.
I came across that some people have built Speedsters as their monitor speakers but then for some reason they did not like them as nearfield speakers (I think the bass was too prominent) and ended up giving their set of speedsters to their fiends or relatives. As they saying that Speedsters are better to be listened in a bigger room.

Have you tried to use OS TM and Hitmakers on your computer desk? Which one would you prefer more, as nearfield and not getting tired of listening for hours?

[ameuba10]

Re: Hitmakers and OS TM Finished

Well i havent noticed any listening fatigue on either set. Both would be great for desktop use. I honestly like the hitmakers better than the OS TM. But i also have alot of space available. To me, it would come down to how much space you are willing to give up.

[JCSquats]

Re: Hitmakers and OS TM Finished

I too am using Hitmakers for my computer (primary) listening. My only "complaint" is their low efficiency; they are by far the best speakers I've ever owned, and are currently my reference speakers. They get plenty loud in my basement, and provide me listening pleasure during my workouts, a completely unheard of concept at a regular commercial gym.

Eventually I'll be building a set of OS TMs for my office, as I have limited space.

Great build!

[ameuba10]

Re: Hitmakers and OS TM Finished

Good point, i agree that they arent efficient. I am using a stereo 50w amp, and i crank it pretty far; but it is enough for my intentions. I know a good 100w amp should get things moving nicely ;)

[Paul Carmody]

Re: Hitmakers and OS TM Finished

Good point, i agree that they arent efficient. I am using a stereo 50w amp, and i crank it pretty far; but it is enough for my intentions. I know a good 100w amp should get things moving nicely ;)

Yeah, I think a good match for them would be the Alesis RA100 or Behringer A500 (keeping with the studio monitor vibe). Otherwise, any HT receiver would be fine.

Thanks for the glowing review, by the way. I'm very glad you like them.