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NHT 2.9 or B&W CDM9NT

Yes I know, what a strange pairing. I have listened to both, and they are very, very different. The problem is, I liked both of them very much. So what's a guy to do?

Maybe if any of you that have heard both (owned both?) were to comment on your experience, it might reinforce or clarify my own thoughts.

I like most all music, but mostly classical (both chamber and orchestral), jazz (acoustic and electronic), some pop rock, etc. No head banging for me, but I must admit I ruled out my favorites, the Maggie 1.6QR because of the lack of bass. I would like to stay in the low $2k range, and to add a good sub to the Maggies puts it out of range.

Oh yes - I am waiting to purchase amp/pre-amp until I decide on speakers, but I plan on spending around $1,500 for an amp (I prefer tubes, but with these speakers I may have to opt for ss).

Your thoughts are very welcome and appreciated.
seldenr

Showing 1 response by tantor2

tantor2
2 posts
 
I have the 2.9's and 3.3's. I would like to point out that although I love my NHT's They are a very position dependent speaker. I don't know what kind of a room you have but they need a wall both behind and outside them, (i.e. a corner) for the bass to look at. And if you can do it, seperate them by 10 to 14' with nothing in between. Even just moving them inches can have an effect on the sonic dynamics of them. If your serious about the 2.9's, might I suggest you give one of the engineers at NHT a call. (number's on their web site) Their always more than happy to give you advice on how to meet your system goals. Truly they would know better than any advice you'll get here. And if the 2.9's may not work in your situation, they tell you that too.
As far as the B&W's, decent sound (not as power hungry) and you don't have to worry as much about placement. Hope that helps. It's all in the ear of the beholder.
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