Yamaha NS-F 51 review

The Yamaha NS-F51 is a floor-standing speaker that appeals to both audiophiles and casual listeners seeking quality sound without a hefty price tag. Its sleek design and robust build quality make it a stylish addition to any living room. The NS-F51 delivers impressive sound performance with dual 16 cm cone woofers for deep bass and a 3 cm tweeter for crisp highs, providing a balanced audio experience suitable for various music genres. However, it requires adequate space to perform optimally and lacks modern connectivity options like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, which might be a drawback for those seeking wireless capabilities.

Setup is straightforward, though attention to positioning can enhance the soundstage. Compared to competitors like the Klipsch R-610F and Pioneer SP-FS52, the NS-F51 offers a warmer sound profile and better build quality, making it a compelling choice for those prioritizing audio performance over additional features. While it may not include advanced tech, its value for money and sound quality make it a solid investment for those focused on enjoying pure, immersive audio.

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If you like this review, you might also like our review on the Yamaha HS5 or Yamaha HS8.

Welcome to the fascinating universe of Hi-Fi speakers If you're on the hunt for quality sound without breaking the bank, you're in for a treat. Let's chat about something exciting: the Yamaha NS-F51. It's a floor-standing speaker that has caught the attention of audiophiles and casual listeners alike.

Why should this speaker be on your radar? Well, it's all about getting that rich, immersive audio experience in your living room. You know, the kind that makes you feel like you're at a live concert or right in the middle of your favorite movie. Yamaha has been a big name in the audio world for ages, so it’s no surprise they’ve crafted something worth talking about.

With its sleek design and promising features, the NS-F51 aims to deliver both style and substance. It's not just about looking good. It’s about providing an auditory experience that can transform your space. Whether you're a music enthusiast or a movie buff, this speaker promises to elevate your listening sessions.

So, what's the catch? While the Yamaha NS-F51 offers a lot, it’s always good to know if there are any quirks or limitations. But hey, that's why you're here—to get the lowdown on what makes this speaker tick and whether it's the right fit for you. Stick around, and let's explore what this piece of tech has to offer!

First impressions matter, right? The design and build quality of a speaker can make or break its appeal, and the Yamaha NS-F51 doesn't disappoint. It's got that sleek, modern look that can easily blend into any living room setup. Standing tall with a tower-style design, these speakers make a statement without screaming for attention.

The cabinet is crafted from high-quality materials, which helps reduce unwanted vibrations and resonance. This is key for delivering clear and accurate sound. The finish is available in different options, giving it a classy yet understated appearance. For those who appreciate attention to detail, the rounded edges and clean lines add a touch of elegance.

At 97 cm tall, they’re not exactly compact, but they’re not overly bulky either. They strike a nice balance between presence and practicality. The weight is substantial enough to feel sturdy, yet not so heavy that moving them around becomes a workout. However, if you're planning to shift them often, you might want to get some help.

One small downside? The grills are fixed, so if you're someone who likes to admire the drivers, you won't be able to remove them. But hey, it keeps things simple and the drivers safe from curious fingers or accidental bumps.

Overall, the design and build quality of the Yamaha NS-F51 showcase a commitment to both aesthetics and function. They’re built to last and look good doing it—what more could you ask for in a speaker?

The sound performance of the Yamaha NS-F51 is something to talk about. These speakers deliver an experience that's both immersive and refined. You might be wondering, does it handle different genres well? The answer is a resounding yes. Thanks to the dual 16cm cone woofers, the bass is deep and punchy without being overwhelming. It’s perfect for those bass-heavy tracks that need that extra thump.

Moving on to the mids, they are clear and well-defined. Whether it's the soulful voice of a singer or the intricate play of instruments, these speakers handle them with precision. The tweeter, at 3cm, ensures that the highs are crisp and not too sharp. The result is a balanced sound signature that suits a wide range of musical tastes.

One thing to note, though, is that these speakers might not be the best fit for very small rooms. They need a bit of space to breathe and perform at their best. But if you've got the room, they can fill it with sound that feels rich and full-bodied.

The Yamaha speakers also do a great job with stereo imaging. The placement of instruments and vocals feels natural, creating a realistic soundstage. It's like you’re right there at the performance. Overall, the sound performance is impressive for the price range, offering a quality that’s hard to beat.

The Yamaha NS-F51 is packed with some impressive features and technology that make it a solid choice for any home audio setup. Let's break down what makes these speakers tick.

First up, the dual 16 cm cone woofers are a big deal. These handle the lower frequencies with ease, giving you that deep, rich bass that makes your favorite tracks come alive. Pair that with the 3 cm soft dome tweeter, and you've got yourself a speaker that covers a wide frequency range with clarity and precision.

Another noteworthy feature is the two-way bass-reflex design. This essentially means that the speakers are engineered to enhance the bass output without any distortion. The result? A more natural and balanced sound experience that doesn’t overpower the other frequencies.

The cabinet design also plays a crucial role in sound quality. The NS-F51 boasts a rounded form that helps reduce diffraction effects, which can cause murky sound. Additionally, the internal bracing system helps suppress cabinet resonance, leading to cleaner and more accurate sound reproduction.

However, while the speakers offer great sound, they lack some modern connectivity options. There's no Bluetooth or Wi-Fi capability, which might be a downside if you're looking for a more wireless setup. But, for those who prefer a traditional wired connection, this won’t be a dealbreaker.

In summary, these speakers are built for those who value sound quality and straightforward functionality over fancy add-ons. If you're all about that pure, unaltered audio, these features will definitely hit the sweet spot.

When you crack open the box of the Yamaha NS-F51, you get a straightforward yet satisfying package. This isn't one of those overly complicated setups that leave you scratching your head. Instead, Yamaha keeps it simple, which is something we can all appreciate.

Here’s what you’ll find inside:

• NS-F51 Speakers: Of course, the stars of the show are the two floor-standing speakers themselves. They come securely packed to ensure they reach you in pristine condition.
• Speaker Grilles: These detachable grilles are included if you prefer a more subtle look or need to protect the drivers from curious fingers or paws.
• Owner's Manual: A handy guide that walks you through everything from setup to troubleshooting, though honestly, you might not need it much.
• Warranty Card: Always good to have for peace of mind, just in case you need to fall back on Yamaha’s support.

Notably absent are speaker cables, which isn’t too surprising but something to keep in mind. You’ll need to grab those separately if you don’t already have them at home. So, while the package is pretty bare-bones, it’s got all the essentials to get you started on your sound journey with the Yamaha NS-F51. Just remember those cables!

Setting up the Yamaha NS-F51 is pretty straightforward, even if you're not a tech wizard. You'll need to find a good spot for these speakers; they are floor-standing, so they take up a bit of room. Make sure you have a solid surface to place them on, as this helps with stability and sound quality. Connecting these speakers is a breeze. They come with standard binding posts, which means you can use banana plugs or bare wire.

If you're not familiar with these terms, banana plugs are connectors that make it easy to plug and unplug your speaker cables without any hassle. Just make sure your speaker cables are thick enough to handle the power. Once you've got them connected, positioning is key. Try to place them at least a foot away from walls to avoid muddy bass. You want them angled slightly towards your listening position for the best soundstage. Don't forget to adjust the spikes at the bottom for leveling; they help in reducing vibrations. 

Calibration might seem like a daunting word, but don't worry. Most modern AV receivers have an automatic setup feature. Just follow the on-screen instructions, and you'll be good to go. This helps in balancing the sound according to your room's acoustics. If you're wondering about the time it takes, you could have these up and running in about 30 minutes. However, if you're meticulous like me, you might spend a bit more time tweaking them to get that perfect sound. The Yamaha NS-F51 might not be the most compact speakers, but once they're set up, you'll appreciate the effort. In summary, the setup process isn't rocket science. With a little patience and attention to detail, you'll be enjoying your tunes in no time.

When it comes to user experience, the Yamaha NS-F51 doesn't disappoint, though it's not without its quirks. Unboxing these floorstanders feels like a treat, and setting them up is a breeze. But how do they hold up in daily use?

Firstly, the speakers are pretty easy to position. Thanks to their sleek design, they fit snugly in most living rooms without being obtrusive. Plus, the build quality gives them a sturdy presence, so you won’t feel like they’ll topple over if you accidentally bump into them.

Once they're up and running, you’ll notice that they perform best in medium to large rooms. The sound fills the space beautifully, enveloping you in rich audio. However, if your room is on the smaller side, you might find the bass a bit overwhelming unless you tweak the settings a bit.

Everyday Use

On the day-to-day, these speakers are a joy. Whether you're streaming music or watching your favorite movies, the audio clarity makes a noticeable difference. The mid-range and high frequencies are particularly impressive, offering a crispness that enhances vocals and trebles.

One thing to note, though, is that these speakers don't come with built-in Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. If you're someone who likes wireless streaming, you’ll need to hook them up to a receiver with those capabilities. It’s a bit of a bummer, but not a deal-breaker if you’re prepared.

Compatibility and Control

Compatibility is generally seamless. They pair well with various receivers, and controlling them is straightforward once you’ve got everything connected. The lack of complicated controls means you can focus more on enjoying the music rather than fiddling with settings.

Overall, the user experience with the Yamaha NS-F51 is quite satisfying. They offer great sound quality and are easy to integrate into most home setups. Just be ready to add an extra component if wireless streaming is a must for you. For those who prefer a more traditional setup, these speakers hit the sweet spot.

In the world of HiFi speakers, the Yamaha NS-F51 faces some stiff competition. Let's see how it stacks up against a few of its competitors, shall we?

Klipsch R-610F is a popular alternative. Known for its horn-loaded technology, Klipsch speakers often deliver a brighter and more direct sound. If you're into punchy bass and detailed highs, the R-610F might catch your attention. However, some users find the sound a bit too sharp, especially at higher volumes. The Yamaha NS-F51, on the other hand, tends to offer a more balanced sound profile, which could be preferable for those who enjoy a warmer, more natural sound. 

Another contender is the Pioneer SP-FS52. Designed by the renowned Andrew Jones, this speaker focuses on delivering excellent sound quality without breaking the bank. It's got a smooth, well-rounded sound and a sleek design. However, the Yamaha NS-F51 might edge it out with slightly better build quality and a more robust low-end performance, thanks to its dual 16cm cone woofers.

Then there's the Polk Audio T50. This speaker is known for its affordability and versatility across different types of music. It features a dynamic balance technology that aims to reduce distortion. While the T50 offers great value, the Yamaha NS-F51 often provides a richer soundstage, especially in larger rooms, due to its larger cabinet and driver configuration. In terms of price, the Yamaha NS-F51 sits comfortably in the mid-range category. It offers a solid balance of performance and affordability. While some competitors might be cheaper, they often compromise on sound quality or build.

On the flip side, more expensive models might slightly outshine the NS-F51 in specific areas, but the difference might not justify the extra cost for the average listener. In summary, the Yamaha NS-F51 holds its ground well against its competitors, offering a great mix of sound quality, build, and value. It's a solid choice for those looking for a reliable and balanced HiFi speaker without venturing into the high-end territory.

Video by: Clarity Audio

Let's talk about value for money. Everyone wants to know if they're getting their money's worth, right? Well, with the Yamaha NS-F51, you're looking at a pretty solid investment, especially if you’re keen on upgrading your home audio setup without breaking the bank.

The price tag on these speakers is quite reasonable considering the quality they deliver. You’re getting a pair of speakers that offer a great balance between performance and affordability. The sound quality is impressive for its price range, providing a rich and immersive audio experience that rivals some of the higher-end models.

Now, while the NS-F51 does deliver on sound, it might not have all the bells and whistles of the super high-end speakers. You won't find advanced wireless connectivity options like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi here, which could be a downside if you're looking for those modern conveniences. However, if you're more about the sound and less about the extra features, this might not be a deal-breaker for you.

When comparing to other speakers in the same price range, the Yamaha NS-F51 holds its ground. It offers a good balance of sound quality and build for what you pay. It's not just about blasting music; it's about enjoying every note and beat, and these speakers certainly deliver on that front.

In summary, if you're after a pair of speakers that provide excellent sound without a hefty price tag, the Yamaha NS-F51 is a choice worth considering. Sure, it may lack some modern features, but when it comes to pure audio performance, it stands out as a worthwhile investment.

Wrapping it up, the Yamaha NS-F51 delivers an impressive audio experience that will satisfy most music lovers and home theater enthusiasts alike. Its sound quality is top-notch for its price range, offering a balanced and rich sound that fills the room. The design is sleek and fits well in a modern living space, although some might find it a bit on the bulky side. The speaker's build quality is robust, ensuring it will stand the test of time. While the setup is mostly straightforward, a bit of patience might be needed for those new to HiFi systems. The lack of some advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity might be a downside for tech-savvy users looking for more modern conveniences.

Compared to other speakers in its class, this Yamaha model holds its ground quite well. It offers excellent value for money, especially for those who prioritize sound performance over flashy features. In conclusion, if you're hunting for a reliable speaker that delivers great sound without breaking the bank, this one should definitely be on your shortlist. Just remember, while it excels in audio, it might not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive models. But who really needs all that when the music sounds this good?

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