Jamo Studio Series S 803 Compact 5.0 Home Theater System (White)

I just tried the Jamo S 803s as a pair, and as part of Jamos 5.0 system (two S 803s, two s 801s, and the center S 81 CEN). I auditioned them alongside Klipsch R-51m and the Pioneer SP-BS22-LR bookshelves. These were driven through 1) a Sony STR-DH590 receiver, and 2) optical out from a computer with a high-quality audio motherboard. The Klipsch sounded muscular, rich, and fun. However, slightly fatiguing. I found myself playing with the volume a lot. Id want more fun then Id turn it up... then after 10-30 minutes my ears would start hurting slightly and Id turn it down. Still, I enjoy them. The Pioneers sounded smooth and balanced but the bass is weaker, probably due to smaller drivers than the R-51Ms. I can listen to them for hours with no problems. The Jamos sounded disappointingly thin. Theyre dynamic like the Klipschs but midrange sounded very recessed and the highs too pronounced. I heard almost static at the top end without feeling like I was necessarily hearing more top-end detail. This descriptor is a little harsh but the word tinny came to mind. I really wanted to like the Jamos because they look great and the price of the 5.0 system is so low - but I tried them nearfield on my computer desk, in pairs in a medium room, in the 5.0 config, and as 5.1 with a Klipsch sub. I couldnt bring myself to do much more than tolerate them. Despite being more expensive, I had much more fun listening to the Klipsch, and felt much more content listening to the Pioneers. I ended up returning the Jamos and Ive decided to try the JBL Stage A170s instead. (The Jamos box and one of the grilles were slightly damaged in transit but not in a way that would impact the sound.)

Excellent and bright. An upgrade from entry level 5 surround but needs the addition of a subwoofer. Good transparency and separation.

Couldnt decide between the S 803s or the S 801s, so why not both?

This 5 piece speaker set is amazing for the price. It sounds clear, rich, at every sound level I have tried. Music sounds better, movies sound like I am at a movie theater. I am using a Onkyo sub from my previous setup, along with a cheap Sony sub. It still sounds great and I am certain that upgrading to a better sub or subs would just increase the quality I am looking at speakers stands for the front S803s as they are not at the optimal height. “Z” reviews and cheapaudioman on YouTube are the reviews that inspired me to get these. Watch them or check out the other reviews on YouTube

I tested many genres and formats on this set and the sound is pretty damn good. Awesome Clarity, balance, and depth is what I hear when I push these without a sub and play the Phantom Thread soundtrack. Truly a great deal for the quality.

Speakers were fantastic. If you return the items, you will be charged a shipping fee.

Kind of wish all the prices were the same for all the colors but theyre very good

Cant believe the sound that come out of this system. Sometimes I need to check to see if the sub is on (Jamo S810). Watched Phantom of the Opera 25 Year Concert yesterday and forgot this was a sub $250 system. Looks great in white. Do they match my brothers Definitives? No. Didnt cost as much either. Should definitely consider this for first timers or low cost home theater.

I bought the Jamo S 803 HCS based off feedback from online/video reviews. These definitely did not disappoint and I’m not sure you can get a better sounding surround set for the price. Buy these if your looking for a budget home theater set that sounds better than some higher priced sets from other manufacturers.

I’m going to buy more when I can. These will be replacing all my basic bookshelf speakers soon enough. The price can’t be beat!