I would agree. I currently own BL20s, 17s, 3s, A9 4th Gen, a pair of Balances, BS2 and BS Level.
17s are incredibly clear and powerful for their size. I actually prefer them over the Balance pair. I find the Balance more powerful and loud, but clinical. The 17s, 20s and 3s can convince me, when I close my eyes, that the artist/music is right in front of me. The Balance always reminds me it’s a speaker. Now if I was new to B&O and had only heard the Balance stereo pair, I would be very impressed. They are still great speakers. Just lacking that amazing tone of previous BL speakers. I’ve heard the same about the 28s vs the 20s. That’s why I haven’t traded my 20s for 28s.
I agree about the BS2 and Balance single. Balance has more power, but the BS2 is crystal clear and so pleasing to my ears. And wide soundstage.
To me, the A9 also has the same tone as the previous BLs. So lifelike!
