CLSII to CLSIIZ

[legarem]

Hello
I have a pair of CLSII and I looked to modified them in CLSIIz.
Many peoples wrote that The CLSIIA plays better than CLSIIZ. The CLSIIZ was only created to be easier for amplifiers.
Is it thruth ? The CLS IIz with the mods will be at 12db/oct instead of 6db/oct with the crossover. This is something which worries me with phase.
Should I do the mods to CLSIIZ or just upgrade the CLS2II to CLSIIA with better parts ?
I have many amps to do the job at tough loads without problems.
Thanks a lot

 

[Brad225]

At one time I owned all 3 models you are inquiring about. The IIA and IIZ I owned at the same time. For me the IIA did offer more bass but not a night and day difference.

 

[legarem]

So If I have a good amp, I could go for IIA for best sound ?
Thanks a lot

 

[Big Dog RJ]

Yes, agree with Brad225.

Just to add: didn't have the earlier version, only the CLSIIz's and most of the Reserve line leading upto the CLX's, which I have now.

Going from the SL3's to the CLSIIz's, I did miss some of that bottom end heft but it changed quite a margin only when I upgraded to larger tube monoblocks, such as the VTL Ref350's and the Wotans. Also had those same Wotans driving the Apogee Diva's. It was only after I took delivery of the CJ Premier 8A monoblocks, those CLSIIz's shifted onto a whole new dimension!

So off the bat: the CLSIIz's offered more midrange detail compared to the other hybrid stats that I had, including the Summit-X. The CLSIIz's were slightly bass shy but when driven by those larger CJ monoblocks and the Wotans, the bass was in full swing. Fantastic LF detail and finesse. Nothing was forced like a bass cone driver... it was very natural and musical bass. Pretty much covered all areas of LF detail on the "type of music" I listen to (jazz, female vocals, small acoustic ensembles and instrumental arrangements on Turkish or fusion groups). So nothing too heavy where I'd require 5 sub woofers. The CLSIIz's were more than adequate in the room they were positioned in because it wasn't a large room at all.

OTOH, take that level of refined midrange detail with LF finesse to an even further dimension of limitless dynamics, also covering in HF extension, the CLX's when driven properly are superb!!! But that's a whole different level.

I sincerely believe you'll be very pleased with the CLSIIz's but if you're planning on the IIA version upgrade, that should suit just fine.

To me, it's a highly personal preference, so I cannot answer that for you. It's like asking what flavour of ice cream we like... you'll get a 100 different responses, some claiming to be the best! Only you can determine which one you prefer, no one else mate.

Cheers, and do enjoy those finest tunes!
Woof! RJ