“Can anyone tell me why theses speakers are hurting my ears even at low volume? I have tried different speakers positions and different speaker cables and checked to see if the speakers are connected properly.”
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There are several reasons why higher end speakers can "hurt" or cause fatigue in listeners, they include: 1. Amplifier/Receiver is low output and is 'clipping' causing sound distortion. 2. Speakers such as B & W require a 40 to 100 hour break-in period in order to allow the newly manufactured/assembled components to reach their specifications. Several reviewers have commented on how much "better" the speakers sound once broken in. 3. Source that is playing the music is lower grade (i.e,, inexpensive bluetooth connection with lower 16 bit transmission) 4. Low quality speaker connections--B & W's should use 14 to 12 gauge wire to maintain the speaker integrity. 5. Listener is seated too close to the speakers at volume. These are 40" floor standers--recommended distance is 8-14 feet from the speakers. 6. Sometimes electrical current (dirty current) can cause distortion. To check this turn your amp on to a frequently used input (without playing any music) and increase the volume from 1/2 to 2/3rds on the volume control....if there is noise or hissing as you listen to the tweeter, then your current may be dirty. Continue to lower the volume in small increments until the noise/hiss is no longer audible to determine where the distortion curve is. Then once this is established, play music at that volume and listen to any improvement. Power Conditioners, such as Panamax (sold at Best Buy/Magnolia) can remove those imperfections. If the hissing/noise is still there after power conditioning, perhaps your amp is not up to the task. B & W's can be 'bright'--personally, I find these 603 S2 Anniversary Editions (verified purchase fromBB/Mt. Laurel, NJ store) well balanced for the price and have mine paired with a Technics SU-G700 at 140 watts @ 4 ohms--which provides clean, power and is well-matched for these. Note: I use a Panamax power conditioner and hear no hiss until the music is pushing large wattage. The speakers are clear at ultra high volumes, but the sound is no longer enjoyable. I hope these suggestions are helpful to you.
I would recommend:
Sorry, there was a problem. Please try again later.Brightness as you've described is usually caused by an imbalance between upper and lower frequencies. Try turning down the bass in your car stereo all of the way and you'll understand. Something is clearly causing the issue. Assuming that the speakers are attached correctly and that the foam plugs are not installed, you're amplifier may not be passing low frequencies. I would suggest contacting https://www.bowerswilkins.com/contact-us for troubleshooting. This will be an easier and faster way of getting the results you paid for.
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