New 250 compared to old 250 -the difference!

Posted by: Jonas Olofsson on 10 December 2003

Ive just done a very unserious test between my 250 (-98) and a new (but burned in) 250. Still, the result surprised my so much that I have to report it, but take it for what it is.

My 250 has been on for many months, the new 250 was put into my system (CDS2-52-250-SL2-Fraim)without any warming up before the comparing started. Or maybe should I say, the comparing between my 250 and the new one was over before any critical listening could start. Why?

Simply because the new 250 was so much better in all areas that matters to me, that you had to be deef not to hear it. I was basicly shocked how good it was. Most obvious differences? The bass was much deeper (I almost pulled my speakers out from the wall because I was afraid to disturb the neighbours to much), the separation between the instruments was fantastic and overall the music was so much easier to understand.

The best proof that it wasent in my head? My girlfriend, who couldent care less, commented for the first time how good it sounded, before she realised that I put "another box" in the room. Big mistake!

Ive read about how good the new 250 is, but still thought it would be a sidegrade move instead of an upgrade. I do not belive that any more. The new 250 is a true upgrade and I cant see myself having anything less then that in my system in near future.

Jonas
Posted on: 15 December 2003 by Geoff P
Frank

I will be interested to hear the result of your test between the B&W 805's and the Mani-2's. As I mentioned I am in agreement with you, the 250-2 comes up with the goods when asked to drive the Mani's IMHO.
I have not heard the B&W's because once you've paid out the sort of money we are talking about here you've made your choice and should settle down and enjoy what you've bought.
I hear the B&W's have a beautifull mid range so I will be particularly interested in comparisons there since I think that is one of the strengths of the Mani's. Some people claim the Mani's are a bit "tizzy" up at the very top freqencies but I have not had that problem. myself.
It is probably in the low frequencies wher comparisons will be a little unfair since the isobarik should have more extension but maybe the control and musicality down to where the B&W rools off will show the differences most.

Let us know what you think or if you like invite me to a private topic. As you have guessed I am "sold" on the sound i get from the mani's., Ihave no regrets I am a happy man.

Boekster
There does indeed seem to be a unique totem "sound" which you can fall in love with. Some of the tall thin ones are not as difficult to drive, but the Mani-2 is the "standout" performer I believe.

regards
GEOFF