about Athena AS-B2.2

[andychen]

I found that Athena AS-B1 got great reviews, I also saw some good reviews on B2. Now the Athena audition series has been cleared out and the only one I can find is Athena AS-B2.2. What is the diference between b2 and b2.2? Does it sound as good as AS-B1/2? I know Athena has a new LS series. The sensitivity of LS-100 is 87db, a little low with my Trends TA 10.1. That is why I am considering AS-B2.2 Any suggestions are appreciated.

 

[Seth=L]

The AS-B2.2s have more resonate cabinets, I would keep looking for the AS-B2s.

 

[billy p]

Yep

same components but inferiorly built quality. I was selling mine but since have reconsidered because they are IMO that good and people wanted them for to LOW in price!

http://forums.audioholics.com/forums/showthread.php?t=38771

 

[Joe Schmoe]

Whatever you decide, act soon. Athena has been shut down, so no telling how long their speakers will remain available.

 

[jcPanny]

Athena speakers

Pick up some of the LS bookshelf speakers if possible. They have better drivers than the Audition series.

As for the Audition series, the ASB1's have smaller drivers than the ASB2 model (5" vs. 6"). When they went to the X.2 version they changed the silver color slightly. Suposedly they changed the MDF supplier so that some of the speakers were lighter. This would make a bigger difference on the larger floorstanding models than the bookshelf speakers.

You might also look for a used or B-stock pair of the AV123 X-LS speakers for your T-amp setup. I am enjoying a pair of the ELT525 speakers but their efficiency is pretty low, so they are not ideal with a low power amp.

 

[andychen]

I actually have a LS-100B now. I think they sound very good. Compared to the RTi4 I briefly owned, they are a little harder to drive with my amp. I prefer my RTi4, greater soundstage and better bass. Both units are very musical and for their price I am very happy. I have to return RTi4 because of some unacceptable cosmetic defects for a brand new retail unit. They are sold out so the seller did not have any to replace. I like the sound of my LS-100B, that is why I am looking for AS-B1/2 with higher efficiency.

 

[mustvid]

I have some AS B1's if you are intested.

 

[Joe Schmoe]

My Mirage Omnis developed a tweeter problem after only a couple of months of light use. They use exactly the same components as the LS series, so take care.