Beolab Penta MK3 Purchase and Adding a Beolab 2 Subwoofer?

[sorenfelden]

I’m a big fan of the Beolab Pentas and am currently considering buying a pair of MK3s. One option has had the mid-range drivers replaced, while the other has been extensively refurbished at a B&O dealer, with many internal components replaced as well. The latter is priced EUR 700 higher. Would the fully refurbished pair be worth the extra cost in your opinion?

Additionally, I’m thinking about adding a Beolab 2 subwoofer. I mainly listen to bass-heavy pop, rock, and dance remixes – not at high volumes, but I enjoy a luxurious, rich bass response at normal listening levels. While I know the Pentas are already known for their good bass, I’m curious if adding the Beolab 2 would make a noticeable improvement. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

[Beofile7]

I had Beolab Penta 2’s for many years. I loved them but they were always a little lacking in deep bass. Eventually I purchased a Beolab 2 for them. Whilst I would accept it made a noticable difference I have an inherant hatred for subwoofers so it didn’t last long. It’s just too unatural for me. All Penta midranges need refurbishing in time. It’s a easy job to do over a couple of days. Get the best condition you can. Particularly the stainless steel and fabric as these are no longer available. I sold mine in as new condition (they were never touched by the human hand) in their original boxes way too cheap!

[Peter]

Have had Penta 3s for many years – also have a Beolab 2. When using the Pentas with a TV, the Beolab 2 is great for films etc. For music I am less convinced. Have just changed to Beolab 5s – these are simply on another plane. Still love the Pentas (although one amp needs fixing so I will get Multicare to service them) and the Beolab 2 has been a good purchase – I am considering trying it with some Beolab 4000s in a music only system and see what that adds – will report back!

My B&O Icons:

[AdamS]

Personally I wouldn’t dream of ruining a pair of Pentas by adding the Beolab 2 unless you particularly like boom, thump and appalling timing!

Is a Beolab 19 out of your price range, as this is a far better unit?

As an aside, Peter, I didn’t know Multicare could service Penta amplifiers. I may have to speak to them as both of mine are completely knackered…

[sorenfelden]

Yes, the Beolab 5’s are also on my wishlist – I will get them some day, when I have space for them, and then keep the Penta’s in another room or as back speakers in a surround set-up. Just need B&O to update the Beoconnect Core and/or Beosound Stage to enable surround….

[sorenfelden]

The Beolab 19 is an undeniably stunning speaker and within my financial reach. However, I focused on the Beolab 2 due to my understanding that it offers significantly more power. As someone influenced by the preferences of hard-core audiophiles, I’ve been convinced that a single subwoofer is often not enough—a good system ideally requires at least two. It’s claimed that having two subwoofers makes a noticeable improvement in sound quality, so I was worried that just one Beolab 19 would be insufficient…? 😉

[beojeff]

I absolutely agree. I’ve used 2 beolab 2 subwoofers together and the difference is amazing. By using 2 you get a very immersive theater experience where you can’t notice where the deep bass is coming from. Although, my upstairs neighbors HATE me when playing the movie “Dune.” I would also recommend the movies “Air Force One”, “Maverick,” and “No Time to Die” to demo this.

[Peter]

Hi Adam,

They seem willing to fix almost anything – they have just made a new circuit board for my BM4401 and saw my Pentas when the delivered my Beolab 5s and said no problem – no rrom in van that time but they are returning at some point – only one of my amplifiers has gome but I dare say the other will swiftly follow! They have a treasure trove of old equipment and of course are doing a lot of work with Beograms for B&O. Splendid group of people and always seem happy to try! I need to find something really tricky to test them!!

My B&O Icons:

[Author]

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