Magico V2 vs. Sonus Faber Cremona M

I agree with Branislav...make a day out of it and enjoy the auditions. Take some music you are familiar with so you can formulate accurate impressions about each speaker. As for the comparison, I have heard both, and to me, the Magico V2 is a much more accurate and tonally balanced speaker. The Cremonas are warmer but less resolving and to my ears not as extended in the highs. The V2s are the more accurate and balanced speaker. The Cremona Ms are the more romantic lush speaker. I also find the V2s to be the faster more rythmically engaging speaker vs the Cremonas. Also keep in mind there is a big price difference between the 2 speakers (V2: ~$18Kish vs. Cremona: ~$12Kish). Also there seems to be a lot more Cremonas for sale on Agon either brand new or in good condition used for a considerable discount). Keep in mind you can add a little warmth/texture to the V2s with the type of amplification you use while similarly you can tighten up things with the Cremona a bit with the type of amplification. What do you plan on using with either speaker in terms of the rest of your system. That should be a major consideration in terms of which speaker you chose as well. Good luck.

Once is a while I have to say kudos for a response--Cmalak !
I think I would call ahead if I were going to do this drive. Find out which equipment and cabling would be driving each speaker---then; are each broken in.?
In my case my Sophias had twice as much bass after 6 months of use---as an example.

From your checklist of seven, I would have to give the first six in favor of V2. As for 'musicality', it being more subjective--perception, bias, taste, preference come into larger play here--you will have to decide that for yourself. And to add to Cmalak's already excellent comparative notes, I will just add that being more honest and transparent of the two, V2 does demand that extra care/attention to the choices of equipments and cabling used. In comparison, Cremona is way less fussy and easier to make sing. Imo, it is better to get the more transparent, neutrally balanced speaker first, then tailor that musicality aspect to your liking later with your choices/preferred gears. And yes I fully agree--still it is best to make time, go for that joy ride and form your own opinions.

I have heard the V2 and a few Sonus Fabers, but not the Cremona M. I agree with the general impressions that Cmalak posted and the importance of hearing them for yourself. Personally, I very much prefer the V2 but would caution you that they need a lot of good clean power. They are so transparent that whatever is in the rest of the system will be heard clearly. So they will cost you more initially and probably encourage you to spend wisely on the rest of your gear, but the rewards will be fantastic. I'd also call the dealers ahead of time and request gear that is the same or similar to what you have.

Hi guys, many thanks for your responses. It's a great feeling to have when one gets such prompt responses :o)

I do intend to listen to them personally. Just wanted some feedback in case I can't make up my mind between the two. Then there's the Thiel CS3.7 to consider as well.

It seems that most are in favour of the Magico V2, which I am also more inclined towards.

My current set-up consists of Primare I30 amp + CD31 cdp combo and PMC FB1i floorstanders. I intend to lug my Primares, i/c and speaker cables along to audition the speakers. After I got the speakers, then I'll change the amp and finally the source. Is this the correct route to take?

Speaking of amps, which amp would bring out the best from the Magico V2? That said, I favour integrated amps. I know integrated amps are looked upon with disdain by some audiophiles but I just love the convenience of a one-boxer. I also get to save on interconnects and power cords. I have a few in mind - Plinius 9200 (200W into 8 ohms), Pass Labs INT-150 (150W into 8 ohms), Boulder 865.

What do you guys think?