Subjective differences between HB-1 and HB-1 Mk.2?

[rabbit]

I've had my HB1-2's for a few weeks now and I can say I'm happy with them. I got them to replace some Optimus LX-5s which I was using for music in my office. I find them easy to listen to even at higher volumes, and am hearing a lot more in the low frequency end of my collection.

I was wondering though, about how the sound is different from the original HB-1s, intentionally or otherwise?

I also have the Ascend CBM-170 SEs which I'm using for movies. I thought the ascends were a bit "sharper" sounding and seemed slightly louder (with the same amplifier volume) although I don't have a lot of experience to interpret what I'm hearing.

[Pete_Hsu]

Hi rabbit,

The HB-1 MK2 sounds significantly different than the original HB-1. The new ones have a flatter and more extended high frequency response. They also sound more clear and detailed. Note that the MK2 has a totally revised horn/tweeter/crossover network.

Sincerely,

[tractng]

Pete,

How do I know if I have version 1 or 2. I have a different grille from the current website plus I purchased my set in May 2007. Do I have the old version?

Tony:D

[Pete_Hsu]

Tony, your speakers are the original version. The MK2's have a magnetic contoured grille...

[tractng]

Tony, your speakers are the original version. The MK2's have a magnetic contoured grille...


Thanks a lot.

Tony

[tedjack]

Hi rabbit,

The HB-1 MK2 sounds significantly different than the original HB-1. The new ones have a flatter and more extended high frequency response. They also sound more clear and detailed. Note that the MK2 has a totally revised horn/tweeter/crossover network.

Sincerely, Hi Pete. I have heard quite a bit about " audiophile" crossovers. Would you say the parts used in the MK2's crossover are high quality?

[Pete_Hsu]

Sure tedjack, I would say that they are high quality components, especially considering the price point of the speaker!

[rabbit]

Thanks Pete.

I guess I'm not sure the difference really matters for me since I never heard the original HB-1's - just curious :)

Also - my compliments on the finish. I have the maple veneer and the surface finish is exceptionally smooth and even and the seams are well, seamless.

[cynan]

I also have the Ascend CBM-170 SEs which I'm using for movies. I thought the ascends were a bit "sharper" sounding and seemed slightly louder (with the same amplifier volume) although I don't have a lot of experience to interpret what I'm hearing.

I realize this thread has been collecting dust for a while, but I am really very interested in comparisons between an HB-1/HC-1 mk2 and Ascend's CBM-170/350SE systems, as they are very close in price (with the Ascends being a bit more if you opt for the 350SEs accross the front (LCR). Both speakers are receiving good reviews and I'm trying to decide between them

Rabbit - Would you or anyone else here have any comments on comparing these two systems?