XT2 vs CM1 for stereo setup

[maddav]

I am facing an urgent decision between these two speakers. I like the looks of the XT2s better but was told they might sound thin in a stereo setup. It seems like most people buy them as part of a home cinema installation. What do you think?

I might consider adding a sub in the future, albeit an entry-level one (asw 6xx series) rather than the beautiful but superexpensive PV1.

For listening at low volume is there any speaker that is better than the other?

Many thanks, your help will be greatly appreciated!

[htsteve]

maddav,


Spec wise, they are quite similar. One thing I like about the XT2 is the tweeter on top. I've had B&W bookshelf speakers and always liked the tweeter on top performance.

Tweeter on top plus the fact you like the XT2 look equals XT2.


Hope this helps.

[hifiguymi]

I don't think the XT2 is thin sounding but I like the CM1 better. It has a greater sense of ease to me. On the other hand the XT2 creates and incredibly big image so you should try to listen to them and decide for yourself. It will just come down to what you think is better for you.

Eric

[Hammie]

Personally, I like the sound from the XT line over the CM line. :shrug:

I agree that you need to listen to then with a setup similar to what you plan on using (source, pre/pro, amp).

[maddav]

Thanks guys... I would use a cyrus 6 amp and likely a musical fidelity DAC to feed them. My concern with the CM1 is that according to some users the rear-ported design may be a problem when the speaker is close to the wall. And unfortunately in my case it would have to be about 10 inches close. Others report good results even in these conditions.
Maybe in the end it depends more on the acoustics of the room - but then again I have laminated floor and not so much furniture so it's likely not great... (no stereo system at the moment so hard to judge).

[Hammie]

I think you would get more boominess from being that close.

You could always consider adding some acoustic foam behind the speakers to help dampen the effects of the rear port that close to the wall.