B&W DM 601 S2 Speakers Review by slippytoad

I've owned these for almost a year with various (mostly the cheap end of hi-fi) associated equipment. I've been impressed with them this whole time as my system has improved around them. Initially they required a longish burn-in time (72 hours) but have since settled into a pattern of delivering a consistent quality reproduction of most types of music I can throw at them.

They are quite light at 14lbs each and rather short in depth (compared to others in a similar range I have seen) but seem to make up for that quite well. I've been impressed mostly by the large soundstage they can throw and their warm mid-range at low-mid volumes. They don't respond as well to deep bass as I had hoped however. The highs are clean and clear but with bright equipment they often sound harsh (metal tweeters will do this). My advice would be to couple with an amp that can do rich lower-mids and isn't too forward on the highs.

Overall I've been very happy with them as my first pair of "proper" speakers and for the money I paid ($450) I think they're great value entry level bookshelfs.

Product Weakness:	Highs can be a little harsh - need a warm amp. A little boxy if pushed hard.
Product Strengths:	Mid-range, clean highs, wide soundstage, good value

• B&W DM 601 S2 Speakers - stalian 04:21:31 03/01/02 (0)