"Classic" HTM-200 vs HTM-200SE

[DougMac]

In the course of researching Ascends, I got into a conversation with someone interested in selling a pair of HTM-200's. He's upgraded to 170's.

I'm considering buying them to use as back surrounds in a 7.1 system. Since the 200's use a different tweeter than the SE's (from what I can gather), I'm concerned about timbre differences between them and SE's I'm planning to purchase. Would there be enough difference to warrant concern?

Also, what would you consider a fair price for a pair in excellent condition? He's asking $165. Considering he's the second owner, I'm thinking that might be a little high. If I was to pay that much, I'd need to see pics. Any thoughts?

Doug

[azanon]

Half off sounds fair to me provided nothing is wrong with them. Heck, I'd be suspicious that something was wrong if he was asking less than that.

[DougMac]

Half off sounds fair to me provided nothing is wrong with them. Heck, I'd be suspicious that something was wrong if he was asking less than that.

Thanks. I wasn't sure how much the classic model sold for. He's emailing me some pics. This will be an inexpensive way to stick my toe in the Ascend water, though I don't feel the need. I just wish I had more time to finish the HT faster!

Doug

[BradJudy]

I have used classic CBM-170's with SE fronts and now with Sierra fronts. I think it has worked well, but I only use the rears for movies, not music.

[DougMac]

Half off sounds fair to me provided nothing is wrong with them. Heck, I'd be suspicious that something was wrong if he was asking less than that.

I corresponded with the seller and he sent some pics. The speakers are in great shape. There were a few minor imperfections that the seller went to lengths to point out.

We came to a mutually beneficial agreement. I'm looking forward to receiving them. I'll post impressions once they arrive. A much larger purchase will partially hinge on what I think of these.

Doug

[azanon]

They're awesome for back surround duty. I hate that I don't have a better solution for my center channel though than an HTM-200SE. I'd have to redo my entertainment system to be able to have a place for a larger center.

[DougMac]

The HTM-200's were here when I got home from work. I've posted a user review, but in a nutshell I'm blown away at how good these speakers sound. My HT will be outfitted with Ascends for sure!

Doug

[S_rangeBrew]

The HTM-200's were here when I got home from work. I've posted a user review, but in a nutshell I'm blown away at how good these speakers sound. My HT will be outfitted with Ascends for sure!

Doug

Yes they sound great. I'm using them as surrounds, and 340SEs as mains.

I WAS using them as mains, but they were a little too power-hungry for my amp. The 340s are far more efficient. The HTM-200s take about as much power as the Sierras do.

[davef]

The HTM-200's were here when I got home from work. I've posted a user review, but in a nutshell I'm blown away at how good these speakers sound. My HT will be outfitted with Ascends for sure!

Doug

Hi Doug,

Glad that you are enjoying the classic HTM-200s. I have always had a soft spot for these speakers, which I consider to be truly remarkable for their size. The new 200 SE especially, as they offer a very noticeable improvement in both dynamics and bass extension. My only issue is that they are very expensive to manufacture and our profit margin on these is just too low. We really need to sell these at the price of the 170 SE, but I would be concerned that we would barely move any at all at the higher pricing, considering the alternative.

Without question, these are a true hidden gem