Axiom Home Page Forums General Discussion Stereo M22's v. Wharfedale Diamond 8.2's

I haven't heard the Ascends either, but the frequency response charts looked pretty good.
I went with Monitor Audio Bronze 2s over M3s for a gameroom system, but I'm not always sure I did the right thing. Part of the problem was I ordered the M3s in Beech and they didn't look right with the paint and furniture. Both the MAs and M3s blew away a pair of JBL E30s I demoed them with.
I think part of the problem with many small speakers is that the makers try to make them do too much. They do to audio what impressionists did to painting - not about accuracy but an impression of reality. The M3s are very accurate, lacking all those cabinet resonances which initially sound full and pleasing, but can annoy over time. The MAs I have do display a little chestiness that is apparent on some CDs.
I think that you're not going to be able to find perfection in bookshelves at that price (or any price?).

Looks like two very excellent suggestions. Since the MA's are not available through the local retailers and don't sell direct, I went ahead and ordered the Ascends for comparison purposes. They're due in next week. This is going to be fun!

Cool! I'd love to hear your impression of them.

jr

BigWill,

I have a very good friend that lives out your way. If I ever know far enough in advance that I am heading out there, I will let you know and bring a pair of my CBM-170's with me for you to hear. Also...if you are out my way...you are more than welcome to stop by.

I have heard the MA's many times...so I wish you kept the M3's for me to hear.

I have heard Wharfedale bookshelves...not sure of the model, but they sounded good. Eventhough the seemed to play deeper than M22 or 170's. I thought the bass was a little loose.

Judging by the NRC tests, the M3 will have more pecieved bass over the 170 because of the hump in the 100hz region. Probably more important if you are not going to use a sub. The M22 and CBM-170 have been compared many times and are very similar.

Absolutely, Curtis. I'll be off all summer!!!!!!!! 3.5 weeks and counting!!!!!!!

Then heck...you can drive my way!!

Here is a great thread where the M3Ti was one of the speakers compared...along with the CBM-170. The person actually ended up with PSB's.

http://www.ascendforum.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=193&whichpage=1