Difference between Beolab 3 MK I and MK II

14 replies
MA
Offline
Manbearpig
Bronze
Posted May 5, 2015 at 07:30 GMT
#2041098

Dear members,

I know, there has already been a thread about the Beolab 3 MK II, which, however, left me somewhat in doubt. So what are the differences between the Beolab 3 MK I and MK II? It was suspected that the MK II version has been "upgraded" because of cost cutting. Sound quality is supposed to be the same nevertheless. Is this the case? If so, are there any other differences in terms of quality or durability? Is MK I or MK II more desirable from your point of view? Any opinions much appreciated. Thanks!

Greetings,

Kai

P(
Offline
PathElectronics (archived2)
Bronze
Posted May 5, 2015 at 22:46 GMT
#2041099

My understanding is that the bass driver and passive radiators are different. I believe the EQ in the amp module was changed slightly to make them sound the same. It's a very slight difference indeed. 

MKI replacement amp module (at least the US version) has been discontinued, so I think if buying used, the MKII would be the way to go. 


Nathan 

P(
Offline
PathElectronics (archived2)
Bronze
Posted May 5, 2015 at 22:46 GMT
#2041100

My understanding is that the bass driver and passive radiators are different. I believe the EQ in the amp module was changed slightly to make them sound the same. It's a very slight difference indeed. 

MKI replacement amp module (at least the US version) has been discontinued, so I think if buying used, the MKII would be the way to go. 


Nathan 

BE
Offline
beojeff
Bronze
Posted May 5, 2015 at 23:02 GMT
#2041101

PathElectronics wrote:

My understanding is that the bass driver and passive radiators are different. I believe the EQ in the amp module was changed slightly to make them sound the same. It's a very slight difference indeed. 

MKI replacement amp module (at least the US version) has been discontinued, so I think if buying used, the MKII would be the way to go. 


Nathan 

Is this the Path Electronics B&O authorized service technician in Arlington Heights? If so, I highly praise your work and recommend your services to other BeoWorlders! Welcome to BeoWorld!

M(
Offline
mickhoog (archived2)
Bronze
Posted May 6, 2015 at 09:32 GMT
#2041102
How would you even know if you had a Mk1 or Mk2
VL
Offline
vlohjr
Bronze
Posted May 6, 2015 at 09:38 GMT
#2041103
Aussie Michael wrote:

How would you even know if you had a Mk1 or Mk2

I think post 2008 is mkii
MA
Offline
Manbearpig
Bronze
Posted May 6, 2015 at 10:32 GMT
#2041104

Type numbers inside the accoustic lens when removing the top or next to the sockets will let you know. I don't know from memory which type number represents which MK version. Thanks for the answers.

Greetings

R(
Offline
Roger (archived2)
Bronze
Posted May 7, 2015 at 09:37 GMT
#2041105

Nathan is spot on regarding the tech changes, and I think the bottom line is that mkI and II are the same when it comes to sound reproduction given that they have covered the same number of miles.

The bass and slave units were replaced as they went for different/new materials and improved the production. As stated above, some parts had to be replaced to maintain the sound quality and freq range. The units with these changes came with type no 6871-6877 and where introduced in September 2007.

Roger

 

M(
Offline
mickhoog (archived2)
Bronze
Posted May 11, 2015 at 10:15 GMT
#2041106
I took the top off mine and the type is 6875 and no mention of the MK

Just says type, item, serial no and country of origin
MA
Offline
Manbearpig
Bronze
Posted May 11, 2015 at 11:00 GMT
#2041107

Looks like MK 2 then!

or
BeoWorld Gold Membership card
Join BeoWorld

Register to access the forums, reference material, and exclusive member benefits — including our monthly prize draw.

Become a Member

December 2026 Prize Draw

Gold Members Only

As a Gold member you're automatically entered into our exclusive prize draw — your chance to win iconic Bang & Olufsen products. A unique benefit of BeoWorld Gold membership, every draw brings a new opportunity to win something special.

View Prize Go For Gold