Drubin, my experience is that older models from superior lines (e.g. Confidence
mk1 models) are almost never outperformed by newer models from inferior
lines (e.g. new Focus models). This is especially the case with companies like
Dynaudio. I have never compared the Focus 380 and the C2 mk1 speakers.
However, I have compared the Confidence C1 mk1/mk2, Contour S1.4 and
Focus 160 monitors. If the amp is up to the task (i.e. drive appropriately
Confidence speakers) then to my ears there was no contest C1 mk1/mk2 >>
S1.4 > Focus 160. I see no reason why this situation will change when
comparing the floor standing models from these lines. Finally, I realize that
many might prefer a speaker with more bass (Focus 380) over one that images
more precisely (C2 mk1).
Dave, one should never buy a speaker for its tweeter. It is the midrange that is
important. The Focal and Dynaudio speakers sound very differently as their
designers had very different goals. With Focal the focus is on transparency and
speed, whereas with Dynaudio the focus is on the music. That is, Dynaudio
speakers have a more relaxed presentation and a much more fuller midrange
(and bass) than Focal speakers.
mk1 models) are almost never outperformed by newer models from inferior
lines (e.g. new Focus models). This is especially the case with companies like
Dynaudio. I have never compared the Focus 380 and the C2 mk1 speakers.
However, I have compared the Confidence C1 mk1/mk2, Contour S1.4 and
Focus 160 monitors. If the amp is up to the task (i.e. drive appropriately
Confidence speakers) then to my ears there was no contest C1 mk1/mk2 >>
S1.4 > Focus 160. I see no reason why this situation will change when
comparing the floor standing models from these lines. Finally, I realize that
many might prefer a speaker with more bass (Focus 380) over one that images
more precisely (C2 mk1).
Dave, one should never buy a speaker for its tweeter. It is the midrange that is
important. The Focal and Dynaudio speakers sound very differently as their
designers had very different goals. With Focal the focus is on transparency and
speed, whereas with Dynaudio the focus is on the music. That is, Dynaudio
speakers have a more relaxed presentation and a much more fuller midrange
(and bass) than Focal speakers.