what problems do the 685s2 have??
Well designed speakers that sound good to most people have neutral, accurate on and off axis response. Most B&W(all?) speakers measure as though a 9 year old designed them. IMO, its a company that relies on their "audiophile" reputation to sell overpriced, horribly performing speakers. I'd take a $300 pair of Ascends with a good pair of subs over any speaker B&W makes, even if they were given to me.