Are used B&W DM602 speakers still worth considering

[TheRFMan]

Hi folks,

I'm not to the forum here, but not entirely new to the world of audio (I'm also an electrical engineer with lots of analogue experience). I have to admit that the world of good speakers is a bit overwhelming though.

I'm looking to get new speakers for my 2-channel listening setup in my office. I'm currently running two Polk T300 speakers on a Monoprice 25Wx2 hybrid tube amp (it's a pretty nice little no-frills amp!). No subwoofer. The setup isn't atrocious, but I know I can do better than the T300s.

I've come across a pair of good-condition used B&W DM602 speakers (the original design) available for $400CAD (abut $310USD). I could probably negotiate them down to $350. I've heard lots of good things about them, but it is an old design. Are they still worth it, or should I look at something more recent or new?

Others I have stumbled upon online are the Klipsch R-15M, and the Monoprice Monolith K-BAS low extension seems interesting in a system without a sub.

Sensitivity is not an issue for me, I usually listen at fairly low volumes. In fact, lower sensitivity would likely allow me to run the amp a bit closer to its sweet spot at the target listening volume.

I'm interested in hearing the opinions of folks with more knowledge than me on this topic

 

[everettT]

Id take the monoprice over the BWs. Have you heard them? Between the two the BWs midrange is bloated and the treble a little harsh. The monoprice has a hump in the midrange also but not near as pronounced.

 

[speakerman39]

Hi folks,

I'm not to the forum here, but not entirely new to the world of audio (I'm also an electrical engineer with lots of analogue experience). I have to admit that the world of good speakers is a bit overwhelming though.

I'm looking to get new speakers for my 2-channel listening setup in my office. I'm currently running two Polk T300 speakers on a Monoprice 25Wx2 hybrid tube amp (it's a pretty nice little no-frills amp!). No subwoofer. The setup isn't atrocious, but I know I can do better than the T300s.

I've come across a pair of good-condition used B&W DM602 speakers (the original design) available for $400CAD (abut $310USD). I could probably negotiate them down to $350. I've heard lots of good things about them, but it is an old design. Are they still worth it, or should I look at something more recent or new?

Others I have stumbled upon online are the Klipsch R-15M, and the Monoprice Monolith K-BAS low extension seems interesting in a system without a sub.

Sensitivity is not an issue for me, I usually listen at fairly low volumes. In fact, lower sensitivity would likely allow me to run the amp a bit closer to its sweet spot at the target listening volume.

I'm interested in hearing the opinions of folks with more knowledge than me on this topic

The first B&W speaker that I ever heard were the 602 S3's. Needless to say, I was utterly impressed. Have been a HUGE B&W fan ever since. Just recently owned a set of the CM1 S1's and absolutely loved them.

In fact, the CM1 S1's have the best low end extension on ANY stand-mounts that I have ever owned. As such, my advice is to say go for it! That is, given that the 602's have been well cared for.


Cheers,

Phil

 

[zieglj01]

I would look at the Monoprice Monolith K-BAS

 

[speakerman39]

RFman are the DM 602's the S1 versions? If so, I have never heard the S1's or the S2's. However, the DM 602 S3's were very nice sounding speakers. The main thing I remember about them was how laid-back they were. Personally, I like that quality myself. Others, maybe not so much. Speaker preference is highly subjective.

I am not familiar w/the Monoliths and no direct experience with them at all. But, I have heard the Klipsch R-15M's on several occasions at my local BB. Just to be polite here, I am NOT a fan. If the original B&W DM 602 S1's or even the S2's are anything close to the DM 602 S3's, then I would certainly take the S1's over the Klipsch R-15M's w/o any hesitation whatsoever.

If the OP was considering the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-150's or the Reference Premiere RP-160's, then it might be a different story altogether. Hence, the Reference Premiere Series is on another level when compared to the older Reference Series inmho. The harshness and/or brightness has been tamed rather significantly. Which for many is a good thing.

Not exactly sure what improvements/differences there are between the B&W DM 602 S1's, DM 602 S2's, and/or the DM 602 S3's respectively. Have you had the chance to give them a listen?


Cheers,

Phil

 

[everettT]

The series 1 had different tweeter and woofer.

 

[BoredSysAdmin]

If I were you, I'd look for used PSB - support a local economy, but yeah - K-Bas is not a bad speaker.
https://www.audioholics.com/bookshelf-speaker-reviews/monolith-k-bs-1/measurements

 

[speakerman39]

The series 1 had different tweeter and woofer.

Sounds like there were some rather significant changes from the S1 to the S3 Series. I thought that the S3 Series sounded very good. Compared them directly to the likes of the Paradigm Monitor/Studio Series, as well as, whatever offerings they had of Polk on hand at the time. Of course, the Paradigm Studio 20/40 v.3's were by far my favorites of that group. But, the B&W DM 602 S3's held their own very well.


Cheers,

Phil