Lively and dynamic sound with a big and powerful sound for such a small speaker, clear midrange and great build and design (real rosewood veneer)
I´ve heard these speakers 5 years ago on the local dealer and was impressed. This is one of the best speakers I´ve ever heard, much better than the 601 and 602 and also better than the 805 (more musical and lively). The only reason I didn´t buy them was the lack of the deepest bass. I´ve always been using floorstanders, but was forced to sell them because of my new small listening room. And off course I decided to buy the CDM 2´s, and get a pair for only $100 second hand. And after been listening too them in a half year, I´ve get used too them and don´t think I missing something in the deepest bass. I´ve been compared them with the CDM 1´s and the CDM 2´s were superior. The CDM 1´s were slow in the bass and much lesser dynamic, okay the midrange was a bit clearer but in all other terms the CDM 2´s were the best. I´ve listening to the new version CDM 2 SE, and they were disappointing, slow and undynamic like the CDM 1´s (and the majority of all B&W speakers for that matter). The only problem is the treble, which can sound harsh, especially with S-sounds. (The first pair I borrow 5 years ago were not having this problem) Conclusion: One of the most lively speakers B&W have made and for the price at $400 (in Denmark) I give them five stars. Get a pair second hand (don´t buy the SE´s!!) and you can´t ask for more.