Beolab 18 vs beolab 20

6 replies
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dueno (archived2)
Bronze
Posted September 13, 2016 at 14:55 GMT
#2069088

I have actually beolab 3 and i think to upgrade.

Have someone compare beolab 20 and 18.

Difference between beolab 3 and 20.

Thanks
S(
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Sal (archived2)
Bronze
Posted September 13, 2016 at 17:59 GMT
#2069089

I might not be the best person to reply, but since no one has yet, I figured share my opinion.

I used to own a pair of BL3. I've never owned a pair of BL18, but have heard them in a store. I currently own a pair of BL20 & BL9.

I can tell you that I loved the BL3, even more so with the addition of a BL2. Folks on here say the BL18 are wonderful, but more oomph and a rounder sound is accomplished with a BL19. Both may require a sub for some tastes.

I sold the BL3/2 and years later acquired a pair of BL9: In a different league entirely, and BL20 are similar to the BL9 but different.

Compared to the BL3, the BL20 are a completely different animal. Not just on paper but their sound. Words really can't describe the upgrade. I'd suggest you go to a store and pick out your favorite tracks and listen to it on BL3, 3/2 combo, 18, and 18/19 combo, then 20. Keep us posted. Everyone's sonic tastes are different.

RA
Offline
Razlaw
Bronze
Posted September 13, 2016 at 19:08 GMT
#2069090
I have not owned 3s, but have 20s and 9s. The 20s are much better than the 9s.
BE
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BeosoundLondon
Bronze
Posted September 13, 2016 at 20:41 GMT
#2069091
I own a pair of 18 WITHOUT BL19. I love them. Also, I was shocked how "more precise"/"more dynamic"/ ..."better" the BL20 sound when I heard them in a store later.

Then there is the design.

Of course BL20 is a 3-way speaker. I think BL20 are superior, sound-wise.

Then money comes in.

After dialing in the BL18 setting through BV11, I now have really precise/tight bass. Voices are marvelous. The overall sound is very organic. But I am now considering adding BL19.

Math is simple : price for BL18+BL19 is roughly equal to BL20.

Then there is the design.

KP6

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Duels (archived2)
Bronze
Posted September 13, 2016 at 21:22 GMT
#2069092
I did own BL3s which I really enjoyed. Very good punchy sound.

I traded up to BL18s about two years ago and find these speakers absolutely wonderful. Even better sound (stronger midrange than the 3s offered) but it is the design I fell in love with. They are a piece of art to my eyes and unlike any other speaker anywhere by anyone. I enjoy having them in my home even when switched off and that to me is the essence of B&O.

I tried a BL19 for a week recently and didn't actually find that it improved things particularly. I get plenty of bass in any event (I listen to indie, alternative and some rock music mainly).

I have heard the 20s and they are a step up again in terms of sound. Truly fantastic. But for me not as "wow" to look at.

P(
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personaltrainerpaul (archived2)
Bronze
Posted September 13, 2016 at 21:51 GMT
#2069093

As Duels points out, all are so different in design and surely, it's more of which one appeals the most in design to you. 

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