Various retailers have
Sony SS-CS5M2 3-Way Bookshelf Speakers (Pair) for
$198.
Shipping is free.
Thanks to Community Member
JohnDubya for finding this deal.
Available retailers:Features:- 3-Way Bookshelf Speaker Configuration
- 5.12" Woofer
- 0.98" High-Precision Tweeter
- 0.75" Wide Dispersion Super Tweeter
- 100W at 6 Ohms Maximum Input Power
- Rear-Ported Bass Reflex Enclosure
- 53 Hz to 50 kHz Frequency Range
- Removable Cloth Grille
Top Comments
Bottom line, slightly better bass and warmer highs. Most reviewers agree they're better than the originals, but only slightly - not twice the price better. That said, there really aren't a whole lot of great speakers at the sub $200 price point. So they still might be the best option in this price range, unless you find a clearance or open box deal, or are willing to shop used.
Community Reviews
Sony's CS bookshelf speakers are described as solid entry level speakers that work well for PC audio, living room surrounds, and basic home theater or record setups. The sound is generally framed as warm and natural, with a decent soundstage, easy power requirements, and sturdy construction that avoids cabinet resonance. The newer version is said to have a redesigned tweeter, with slightly better bass and smoother, warmer highs than the older model. The main hesitation is price, since the improvement is seen as modest and the value case weak near $200, with better appeal closer to $100 or below.
Common Questions (5)
They are generally described as entry-level speakers that are hard to beat under $100, but not worth a premium price near $198. The practical takeaway is to wait for a sale, open-box deal, or used pair if you want better value.
If you already own the first generation, the upgrade is only marginal, so paying full current price is hard to justify. The newer version may sound a bit smoother, but the difference is small enough that many would keep the older pair unless the price drops sharply.
The newer model appears to keep the same core specs and drivers, with the main change being a redesigned tweeter for smoother sound. Any difference is reported to be subtle in side-by-side listening, with slightly better bass and warmer highs.
They are described as warm and natural with a good soundstage, but not especially sparkly or high-detail. The tweeter redesign is intended to smooth the top end, and measurements suggest slightly better bass and warmer highs than the older version.
They can work well as PC speakers and are well-suited as living-room surrounds. They are also easy to power with many receivers, which makes them a flexible upgrade for basic stereo or TV audio setups.
AI-generated summary based on comments from the community. Updated ago
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22 Comments
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1) For the price (unless you wanna go thrifting), these are pretty hard to beat in quality and construction. They are heavy enough where you don't need to worry about sound bleed from a "cheap" cabinet.
2) They are easy to power and easy to use on almost any receiver (again makes thrifting for a cheap receiver or buying a cheap one online less of a worry and whether it will work with your setup).
3) The soundstage is great for what you're getting. This isn't one of the more sparkly high speakers (like the KEF LT II that slickdealers are raving about) but gives a great warm and natural sound!
I have them paired with the Sony STR-DH190 on 14 gauge wire. Also, I have my U-turn Obrit Plus with an Ortofon 2m Blue plugged in and these speakers provided such a great listening experience. Overall, I would recommend these to anyone trying to upgrade a basic record set up or upgrade their home theater setup (whether using just the tv speakers or trying to upgrade a sound bar). Highly recommend!
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