B&W DM602S3 vs Monitor Audio Bronze 2

[Ohmage]

Hello,

I am in the market for a pair of speakers. The specifications for these 2 speakers are quite similar (ie. frequency response, sensitivity, power handling, and both received accolades), even though the MA B2 has a smaller cabinet and midrange/woofer, not to mention that it is half the price of the B&W's. Do you fanatics have any experience with these speakers? Are there overwhelming differences in terms of performance between these 2 speakers (ie. bass impact and extension, midrange presence, treble timbre and smoothness, soundstage depth and width) that would favour picking either as a clear winner? Would you still buy the Bronze 2's if you had enough money for the B&W's? As always, tough decisions.

Any feedback would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Ohmage.

 

[zumbo]

At the price of either, you could have a model from Paradigm which would outperform both. (IMO) Don't get me wrong, M/A & B&W are top picks. But, not at this pricepoint.

 

[thereal_1_]

Neither !!!

I second the previous post. I auditioned the B&W 602 S3 along with Totem Rain Maker, Axiom M22Ti and Paradigm Studio 20 v.3. I was offered $700Cdn for the 602 but opted for the Studio 20's for $100 more. It has been a few weeks now and the Studio 20's are worth every penny.

 

[Illuminatti]

hi, i just auditioned the B&W 602 S3 and i was comparing it with my MA B2. Basically the mids and highs are almost identical the only sonic difference is that the B&W has deeper bass(as expected due to its bigger driver and cabinet). Why dont you also consider Paradigm Mini Monitor because this is a lot cheaper in price but no sound was compromised.

 

[Ohmage]

I second the previous post. I auditioned the B&W 602 S3 along with Totem Rain Maker, Axiom M22Ti and Paradigm Studio 20 v.3. I was offered $700Cdn for the 602 but opted for the Studio 20's for $100 more. It has been a few weeks now and the Studio 20's are worth every penny.

Hi,

How was the bass output between the 602 and the Studio 20? Paradigm's website says the low frequency extension for the Studio 20 is 36Hz. I think that is a bit optimistic, no?
Did you notice any significant midrange differences between these 2 speakers? I have read that the Paradigms have a kind of laidback midrange. Because I listen to alot of vocals, I am looking for a more robust (not coloured) and present midrange.

Ohmage.

 

[zumbo]

Hi,

How was the bass output between the 602 and the Studio 20? Paradigm's website says the low frequency extension for the Studio 20 is 36Hz. I think that is a bit optimistic, no?
Did you notice any significant midrange differences between these 2 speakers? I have read that the Paradigms have a kind of laidback midrange. Because I listen to alot of vocals, I am looking for a more robust (not coloured) and present midrange.

Ohmage.

If midrange is what you want, then B&W is what you should get. IMO, B&W has the strongest, cleanest midrange there is!

 

[jimmit]

Vocals? Easy -- Paradigm Reference Studio 20!

 

[zumbo]

Ohmage,
This is why it is so hard to give an opinion on speakers. It is something you must decide for yourself. I would have either model & be proud. What I prefer may not be what you prefer. I like my MB Quarts over both. But, it's just my thing.

 

[thereal_1_]

Actually, I was a bit concern with the base on the Studio 20's and was leaning towards the Studio 40's but after 2 weeks of taking them home, I am pleasantly surprise how much base they offer.

I now have about 60 hours on them and they fit in so well with the rest of my Paradigm setup. Even cutting off my sub, center and rear, they are still very impressive with the highs and the mid-range on their own. The Studio 20's was definitely the right decision for me over the 602 and Axiom M22Ti.

 

[Rob Babcock]

I'd take the Monitor Audio Bronzes over the B&W or Paradigm, or any comparable PSB. You've just got to find the speaker that matches your tastes, room & gear.