Speakman2252-BBZ Icon Anystream Multi-Function Adjustable Solid Brass Shower Head, 2.5 GPM, Brushed Bronze

Most people would define a good shower as a sufficiently strong stream of sufficiently warm water in a spray pattern that is directional and covers much of one’s physique.Speakman’s AnyStream shower heads are truly the benchmark. Many of us first discovered these shower heads while staying in a five five star hotel in New York or London, and it defined our view on what an ultimate shower should be.The build quality of these shower heads…..tank like. Forever durability is a function of design, material and build, but for something to really last it also needs to be as simple as it can be and still work. Superfluous features just mean more components to break. Speakman AnyStream shower heads are also a benchmark in this sense. They are a lot less complex than any number of spa-type shower systems, and yet create an equal to or better showering experience.We have been using the 8 module heads and the smaller 6 module heads for years. While the 8 module head is aesthetically dramatic, from a shower quality standpoint, it’s hard to tell the 8 from the 6; and lately when we added an AnyStream head to a new house, we tend to favor the 6 module model.2 GPM is sufficient for the shower to feel luxurious given the flow and water pattern of a Speakman AnyStream head if your water pressure is sufficient. If not, you may want to get the 2.5 GPM model.CONS?:For the past few years, all-brass Speakman shower heads, when installed correctly, are EXTREMELY difficult to adjust the direction of flow when new, thanks to excessive friction in the ball joint pivot. This did not used to be the case on older Speakman heads. This issue is well-documented on the Web.But this isn’t a major con because there's an easy fix.After you install the head, work the ball joint pivot by moving the head up and down, side to side for a few dozen iterations which will loosen up the pivot. It also can help to coat the ball joint pivot with clear silicone grease when you install the head, but the more important fix is just to work the ball joint until it loosens up slightly and allows the angle of spray to be adjustable.All in all, Speakman AnyStream shower heads aren’t inexpensive, but they are way more inexpensive than the vast majority of super-premium comparable shower systems.There are inexpensive plastic, big box store versions of Speakman heads, but the one to get is all metal, solid brass, with a solid brass control lever.If you’re someone who loves simple luxuries, things built to last, a relative bargain compared to competitive items and most of all, a perfect shower; and if you haven’t experienced a Speakman AnyStream, you may want to give it a try.

I have to admit. I have a problem. I'm addicted to water pressure. Just can't live without it. And if high pressure showers are wrong, I don't wanna be right!My version of a successful shower is the peace of mind of knowing that when I step out, one full layer of epidermis has been thoroughly expunged. I live for the feeling of pure, unadulterated water power pressure washing everything away.So imagine my disappointment when my first ever house purchase, though full of water pressure potential, left something to be desired. The cleansing ability lay dormant, with no device present to harness this latent power. Undeterred, I searched until the instrument of my shower salvation was discovered.The Speakman S-2252 Anystream is one of those dying breeds that lives by the ages old yet dying creed, "Do one thing, and do it well." This shower head delivers power. Raw, unapologetic power. But that is something to be described a little later.The first thing you notice about this shower head is that, despite it's rather diminutive size, it is hefty. There is no mistaking whether this item is made of quality materials. Gravity and mass make sure of that. Solid brass, made to last.The second trait is simplicity. There is no rotary dial with 100 settings. There is simply a lever on the side that moves the 8 nozzles on the face of the head in and out. When moved in the nozzles "squeeze" the water, like your finger covering the end of a hose, giving you defined jets of water and higher pressure. When moved out the nozzles allow free flow of water. Less pressure, but much higher flow. The beauty is that even with such simplicity, the lever can be stopped anywhere you like to adjust streams and pressure to your liking. You really do have the option of "Anystream".Instructions for installation were included and were simple and clear. Like most shower heads, installation isn't rocket science, but if you've never done it before, the instructions make it pretty difficult to mess up. Also included was a small roll of Teflon tape. I was quite pleased with this, as I had misplaced my own roll. I also was pleasantly surprised to find that there is probably enough tape included for 3 installs, so the rest was thrown into the toolbox to be put to future use.Then, to the moment of truth. I turned on the shower and no leakage. But the pressure. Oh! The pressure! I hadn't even stepped into the shower, yet I knew I had found what I had been looking for. I could feel the rush of air as it moved out of the way of the water. I smiled. This was the moment I had been waiting for. I stepped in...I can only describe the shower experience with one word... Joy. My wife will testify to the fact that I was giggling like a schoolgirl the entire time. Like Michael Jordan clutching his first NBA championship trophy, I embraced the water as a long lost friend. This was what I had searched so long for. The perfect shower experience. When the nozzles of the head are turned out for full flow, it's like having someone continually pour buckets of water on your head. Need to rinse off some soap? Done. In an instant. There is no waiting here. But, when you really want to step to the next level, turn that lever all the way over and you will be met with something only a step below a fire hose. On its highest setting, the jets that flew from this shower head stung me. That's not an exaggeration. They literally stung. Some might not find that appealing. I, however, could do nothing but grin like the kid who just received his first bike.Am I satisfied with my purchase? Oh yes. This shower head is not for the faint of heart. But if you have the courage to enter the heart of darkness, you WILL emerge victorious. You will emerge refreshed. You may even be a new person. But one thing is sure. Your flesh will be cleansed.(One thing to note. As most shower heads do, this one came with a flow regulator pre-installed. It is a simple plastic piece fitted into the connector end of the head. If you are like me and don't enjoy feeling restricted in your shower taking, you will want to remove this piece. Of all the things that I tried, I would recommend a pick or pointed Phillips screwdriver and a hammer. After fiddling with it for a few minutes trying other methods, one good whack with the screwdriver on the inner edge of the plastic had it dislodged immediately. I am more than happy that I removed this piece. However, considering just how absurdly good this shower head is, I would suggest trying it with the regulator in place first. I would have to think that it will be more than capable even with governmental shackles on it. When I purchase another one of these for the guest bathroom I will most likely leave the regulator in at first to compare. I will try to remember to update this review at that time when I do.)

I own several Speakman showerheads, and the 2.5 GPM model is outstanding. It replaced a Hansgrohe Raindance that lacked sufficient water pressure. The brushed nickel finish looks sleek and high-end, and the spray adjustment lever offers firm, precise control while remaining easy to use. While you can find cheaper options, if you value quality and a luxurious shower experience, I highly recommend this model.

I bought this to replace my old Speakman Anystream that suffered some gasket failures. This new one just sprays a fine stream, as opposed to the powerful and massaging stream of my old Speakman. While it's not the same experience, it's not terrible either. I just think a $15 shower head could produce the same spray pattern and force. Also, there is literally only one spray setting that works when you turn the handle, at least with my plumbing; it's drip or spray. Still, I've grown to appreciate it and find myself choosing showers over baths now, which will probably save me some money over time.