I had the chance to do a long side-by-side between the C500 and the S2. I used the same external DAC, cables and monitors with both. I alternated the monitors between the SF Amati Serafino, Maggie 3.7, and a pair of Shahinian Hawks. I must say it's really a toss, I expected the S2 to be better and it was at times, but not all the time. I think the Maggies overall sounded better with the C500, a better bass and midrange. The Shahinians sounded best with the S2, and it was a complete toss up with the Serafino's. I think the Serafinos are the least colored speakers of the bunch. All of the monitors present difficult loads to an amp.
