B&W 685s vs CM1s

[admin_exported]

The CM1s look best imo but use smaller mid/bass cones (130 vs 165). Do the CM1s have better quality components? Reviews seem to favour the 685s and they're cheaper.

 

[Anonymous]

personally i thought the cm1s better but what amp will you be using

 

[Anonymous]

its a CA 650A, it airs on the bright side, so i've had to put a bit of though into what to match it to.

 

[JamesPianoman]

Hi Mr Brown, I can offer an opinion here.

I recently auditioned both the B&W 685s and CM1s. I personally found the 685s perhaps a little more open, detailed, clear and 'dry'.

I found the CM1s 'warm' perhaps a little fuzzier but with, for me, a more enjoyable sound overall.

I found the volume/quantity of bass to be reasonable on both- perhaps there was a perception of having more bass on the CM1s because they were 'warmer' and less detailed. I found the 685s had a clearer bass (and clearer sound overall) but for me they were less engaging.

I hope this helps you to choose,

James

 

[Anonymous]

James is correct, I heard both of them recently..CM1s are more musical, enjoyable and warmer. 685s (IMO) can be improved by a musical amp with better bass control and warmer presentation.