I have a pair of CDM 1NTs and I find them to be pretty darn hard to beat. In my house I have two other systems--one with Meridian speakers and the other (2 channel only) with Magneplanars. The CDM 1NTs are in the "mainstream" third system and I drive them with a Marantz SR 8500 HT receiver. I have to say that even when I use that system, I don't feel like I'm compromising. IMHO, this is due to a couple of attributes of the CDM that are not hallmarks of the CM series.
First, that "free air" tweeter nacelle seems to really allow a lot of height in the soundstage. Second, the mid-woof cabinet is remarkably inert and provide a steady foundation.
So while the drivers and crossover may share some provenance with the CMs, it's my opinion that the cabinet is the difference maker here.
First, that "free air" tweeter nacelle seems to really allow a lot of height in the soundstage. Second, the mid-woof cabinet is remarkably inert and provide a steady foundation.
So while the drivers and crossover may share some provenance with the CMs, it's my opinion that the cabinet is the difference maker here.