Monitor Audio Platnium II

Anyone compared the PLII to new Focal Sopra or Utopia line?

I have heard both at different dealers with different room and equipment but the initial impressions are that PLII creates a deeper soundstage, but fails with faster transients and is a bit softer on top, not so immediate and dynamic.

I’ve listened to the Sopra 2s, Utopia line, and I own PL500 IIs. I submit they’re different in the way they present details. The Focals remind me of Wilsons, were the sound comes at you; consequently they appear to be more dynamic. The PL500s have an uncanny ability to bring solo singers and/or instruments to the forefront. The performers appear to step forward. The PL500s create a 3D like soundstage unlike any other speaker that I’ve owned. They can sound dry, forward, lean, and too much bass all at the same time. It depends on the room, recording, and associated equipment. I submit that all component choices come down to individual preference...nothing is actually "better".

Thanks Richerd1 !

It confirms my impressions.
Do you remember what was the upward gear on PL500 ?

P.S. I also detected a dry nature and limited dynamics, but it was in MA PL I line not so much in II.

Richerd1,

I`m based on Europe so Wilsons and other beautiful US speakers are basically very expensive and hard to find a dealer/demo here.

I suppose that you probably prefer Sopra or Utopia to PLII?

I live in a log house and I also want the best bang for the buck. Therefore Utopia III is too modern looking (+ overly expensive) in my house. Maybe you have some experience with Alto Utopia?
I have a JLf112 sub, but still like to play loud, especially on weekends :=))
I`m familiar with Focal house sound, but I`m really confused what to buy in the 4-10K range (used or demo).

I currently use Pass 250.5 and some say Sopra is better and more enjoyable with SS than Utopia 3, that mates better with tube gear.
What`s your impressions on Sopra vs Utopia 3 ?

Thanks in advance!
Plutos

Plutos,

I prefer PL500 to the Sopra and Utopias that I listened to. I can’t recall the Utopias that I heard, but they were between 30K - 50K. I prefer speakers that to my ears are neutral or on the slightly dark side of neutral and that’s why I love the PL500s. You may prefer Focal! There are no absolutes in Audio, only preferences. My advice is to listen to everything in your price range and let your ears decide.

My system: PL500 speakers, JL Audio F112 V2, Jeff Rowland(JR) 625 S2 amplifier, JR Corus preamp, JR Aeris DAC, Bryston BDP2, Torus Power Conditioner, Wireworld Platinum Power Cables and Interconnect Cables. I have Wireworld Silver Eclipse 7 Speaker Cables.