Neat Motive 2 Compared with B&W 685

[admin_exported]

Hi all,

I am considering buying Neat Motive 2s to replace my 685s.

I will also be looking into getting a new amp - shortlist:

Naim Nait 5i

Exposure (not sure what one)

Roksan Kandy K2

My question is how do the speakers compare? I listen to a wide range of music including progressive electronic, rap, rock, and more mellow stuff.

My main fear is that I might lose bass, as I find the bass from my 685 pretty good, and now and then do like to blast out some drum and bass! But I also enjoy the more subtle qualities of a speaker equally.

I know that the bass driver is a bit smaller on the Motives, but what are they like in comparison?

Thanks

 

[SHAXOS]

Had them both and went through the same upgrade. I loved them both. Dont worry about the bass the neats have much greater bass than you would imagine. If i am totally honest though the upgrade in terms of overall sound will be less than you would think considering the neats are almost twice the price. Id defo listen before changing. They are better but you may think they are not worth the extra outlay as the 685s are fantastic for the price.

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks SHAXOS,

One of the reasons for the upgrade is aesthetics, I know it's about the sound but I find it hard to live with something for a long time if I don't like the look of it!

Obviously I'll demo them before buying, but have just been reading this thread, have you or anyone else heard anything about this problem? Sounds scary!

It's about them being un-able to play loud/deep bass and bottoming out!

http://forums.naim-audio.com/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/48019385/m/9932940717/p/1

(Sorry I can't create a link with my browser).

 

[SHAXOS]

They are small speakers and really cannot be expected to play at ridiculous levels. The bass they do give in a suitable room is very high considering the size of the speaker. If its only the bass you want more of over the 685s id say you will be dissapointed as from what i remember the bass response of both speakers was similar(although neats edge it imo). But if you are bottoming out the speakers it simply means you are pushing too hard and need to either change your listening habits or the speaker.

 

[Anonymous]

Hi, I'm not looking to gain bass, hence considering these small speakers, I just don't want any less than the 685s bass.

What other character traits differ from the 685s?

Many thanks

Paul

 

[SHAXOS]

To my ears they were brighter with more detail and a more expressive midrange. The voices were free of the speakers more with the neats.

 

[gregory]

Why not demo your speakers with the amps mentioned now, i know the B&W go well with Naim, maybe Chebby later on will offer his opinion as he has Naim gear with the Rega speakers which are great for the money.

 

[SHAXOS]

Thought you might be interested.
At this price its a no brainer really...

EDITED BY MODS - House Rules

 

[gbhsi1]

I have had the neats for a while now and they are really good! the bass is taught, timing is superb- just make sure you partner them with a equally matching amp! the Naim and neats- a synergy unlike any other. I can tell that you really worried about the bass, but don't be- it's brilliant 🙂

I have not heard the 685's but B&W make very good quality speakers and they should not be discounted. It all boils down to which one grabs you the most when playing your favourite cd's.