Page 1 of 2 12 LastLast
Results 1 to 10 of 19

Thread: CMT-340s or Sierra 1s?

  1. #1
    Join Date
    Sep 2018
    Posts
    13

    Default CMT-340s or Sierra 1s?

    I’ve owned three CBM-170s as L,R, and C in my home theater since either 2002 or 2003 and have loved them to death, literally. I’ve upgraded the TV (multiple times), receiver (multiple times), and even bought a house with a bigger and better home theater space since then but the one constant has always been those wonderful speakers. So now I’m looking to retire the CBM-170s to the bedroom and bring in a new set of fronts, and am considering either the CMT-340s or the Sierra 1s.

    The thing that appeals to me about the 340s is that their construction is quite similar to that of my beloved 170s, with essentially the same woofer and tweeter design and MDF cabinet material. When I originally bought my 170s it was prior to the SE upgrade and the CMT-340s weren’t even offered yet. I expect I’ll like the 340s even better than the 170s, although it’s hard to imagine liking anything better at this point. However, since the new home theater space is larger I think the second woofer and larger cabinet dimensions of the 340s will be a definite plus.

    The thing that appeals to me about the Sierra 1s are that they are quite possibly even better than the 340s. But the thing that concerns me about them is that due to their different drivers and cabinet material they will sound significantly “different” than the 170s that I’ve lived with for more than 15 years and loved. I know different isn’t necessarily bad, but when you’ve listened to a set of excellent speakers for such a long time they tend to become your reference.

    So I’m hoping there are some members who have owned and listened to both the 340s and the Sierra 1s and can give me some input on their characteristics and differences. Looking forward to another 15+ years out of whichever ones I settle on.

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Dec 2005
    Posts
    148

    Default Re: CMT-340s or Sierra 1s?

    I prefer the Sierra 1, I feel it throws a bigger image. Bass response also seemed better in terms of slam but I think they have similar extension. I don't think you would regret the Sierra 1 at all, although it's less sensitive than the CMT-340s so you would need a bit more power to drive them.

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Sep 2003
    Location
    Augusta Maine
    Posts
    72

    Default Re: CMT-340s or Sierra 1s?

    Quote Originally Posted by Belows View Post
    I’ve owned three CBM-170s as L,R, and C in my home theater since either 2002 or 2003 and have loved them to death, literally. I’ve upgraded the TV (multiple times), receiver (multiple times), and even bought a house with a bigger and better home theater space since then but the one constant has always been those wonderful speakers. So now I’m looking to retire the CBM-170s to the bedroom and bring in a new set of fronts, and am considering either the CMT-340s or the Sierra 1s.

    The thing that appeals to me about the 340s is that their construction is quite similar to that of my beloved 170s, with essentially the same woofer and tweeter design and MDF cabinet material. When I originally bought my 170s it was prior to the SE upgrade and the CMT-340s weren’t even offered yet. I expect I’ll like the 340s even better than the 170s, although it’s hard to imagine liking anything better at this point. However, since the new home theater space is larger I think the second woofer and larger cabinet dimensions of the 340s will be a definite plus.

    The thing that appeals to me about the Sierra 1s are that they are quite possibly even better than the 340s. But the thing that concerns me about them is that due to their different drivers and cabinet material they will sound significantly “different” than the 170s that I’ve lived with for more than 15 years and loved. I know different isn’t necessarily bad, but when you’ve listened to a set of excellent speakers for such a long time they tend to become your reference.

    So I’m hoping there are some members who have owned and listened to both the 340s and the Sierra 1s and can give me some input on their characteristics and differences. Looking forward to another 15+ years out of whichever ones I settle on.
    I've owned the original 170's since inception (early adopter), then upgraded to the 340's (still use the 340C as my center speaker, and now own Sierra 2's for my L+R and the 170's as my rears. Quite honestly, you can't go wrong with either purchase but since Ascend offers a free return policy, try them both and pick what you like best after an in-home audition.

  4. #4
    Join Date
    Apr 2010
    Posts
    35

    Default Re: CMT-340s or Sierra 1s?

    The current sale on B stock Sierra 1s for under $700 for the pair is pretty incredible. I would go for that in a heartbeat. There is a definite step up in the looks department for the Sierra line as well IMO.

    Disclaimer: I haven't heard the 340s but am a happy Sierra 1 owner for the last 9 years.

  5. #5
    Join Date
    Dec 2013
    Posts
    360

    Default Re: CMT-340s or Sierra 1s?

    I've owned both the 340se and the Sierra-1 in the past (now own the Sierra-2). The 340se is a great speaker and may have a slight advantage on maximum output but the Sierra-1 is better in pretty much every other way.

  6. #6
    Join Date
    Jun 2006
    Location
    Fontana, CA
    Posts
    129

    Default Re: CMT-340s or Sierra 1s?

    I have owned 340SE’s and Sierra 1’s. The 340’s are very good but the Sierra’s are better. In addition, Sierra’s can be upgraded to NRT’s or Sierra 2’s in the future! Both great upgrades.

  7. #7
    Join Date
    Sep 2018
    Posts
    13

    Default Re: CMT-340s or Sierra 1s?

    Quote Originally Posted by picasso View Post
    I've owned the original 170's since inception (early adopter), then upgraded to the 340's (still use the 340C as my center speaker, and now own Sierra 2's for my L+R and the 170's as my rears. Quite honestly, you can't go wrong with either purchase but since Ascend offers a free return policy, try them both and pick what you like best after an in-home audition.
    That’s an excellent suggestion. Not sure why I didn’t think of it but that’s what I will do. Thanks!

  8. #8
    Join Date
    Mar 2008
    Posts
    1

    Default Re: CMT-340s or Sierra 1s?

    Quote Originally Posted by Belows View Post
    That’s an excellent suggestion. Not sure why I didn’t think of it but that’s what I will do. Thanks!
    Late to the thread but what did you end up choosing?

  9. #9
    Join Date
    Jul 2020
    Location
    New Jersey
    Posts
    90

    Default Re: CMT-340s or Sierra 1s?

    What about as a center channel? Is the Sierra still better?

  10. #10
    Join Date
    Mar 2011
    Location
    NW Pennsylvania
    Posts
    696

    Default Re: CMT-340s or Sierra 1s?

    I would say so. I haven't heard the 340 but I started with Sierra 1s across the front. I would describe the sound as very refined and clean. The highs are a bit rolled off but if that doesn't bother you than they will sound amazing. To me, comparable to much more expensive speakers.
    Nate

Posting Permissions

  • You may not post new threads
  • You may not post replies
  • You may not post attachments
  • You may not edit your posts
  •