I've got the S45-2, and they have good clarity, but a bit weak bass. I would expect the bass on the CX50 to be worse.

The big advantage of the CX50 is the small size. If you have the room, go for the S45. Do note that there are three versions of the S45: The original and the -2 are both three way speakers, whereas the newest version is two way. The three way versions are supposed to sound better.

Which version of the S45's?  There were two, plus the 45.2.

I've just refoamed one of a pair of the later S45's and been playing it through a BC3300 and was quite pleased with it.  It may depend on what you intend to use it as - background music, low or high volume etc?  Do you have a space constraint issue?  do you want to wall hang them, have them on the floor or on a bookshelf?

If you have no constraints, I'd go for the older of the S45's over CX50's.  Whichever you choose, you'll probably have to work on them - refoam them at least.  Can you try both speakers in your location before you make a choice?

Dave.

As Dave Farr said, you often have to work on old speakers. The early S45 and .2 don't suffer from foam rot, but the glue holding the magnet on the bass driver is not good, so it's a good idea to apply some epoxy before transportation. Once the magnet has moved, repair becomes difficult. I changed the capacitors on mine, but actually the old caps measured fine.

Thanks for advice, it is appreciated, and confirms my thoughts on the matter. Other advice also leans the same way. 

 

Regards Kevin O'Connor👍

Thanks for advice, it is appreciated, and confirms my thoughts on the matter. Other advice also leans the same way. 

 

Regards Kevin O'Connor👍

Thanks for advice, it is appreciated, and confirms my thoughts on the matter. Other advice also leans the same way. 

 

Regards Kevin O'Connor👍

No I cant try them I'm afraid, but advice gives me more confidence in the purchase, so thanks very much, and I'll let you know how they sound when set up, so fingers crossed.

 

Regards Kevin