The Sony SS-CS5 M2 ranks #32 out of 63 total Medium Size Bookshelf Speakers for sound quality. See Top Recommended Speakers By Attribute for all the top speaker suggestions.
Brand: Sony
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#32 Sony SS-CS5 M2: $278.00 Amazon eBay
Pros: Added internal bracing (corners, sides, front baffle) plus an updated crossover meaningfully reduce the resonance issues that plagued the original SS-CS5, giving a smoother, more neutral character overall. A modest mid-range dip (about 1-2dB) is present but tolerable, and the reviewer would rather have this dip than a peak in that region. Slightly deeper bass than the previous version, measuring about 2dB more output around 60Hz. Distortion drops noticeably when crossed to a subwoofer around 80-120Hz, meaningfully improving midrange clarity and detail versus running full-range. Easy to drive on a standard AVR - no need for a dedicated high-power amplifier. More modern, understated waveguide look compared to the previous version’s glossy trim.
Cons: Mild sibilance in the 3-5kHz range stands out on S and T sounds in vocals. Some forwardness in the midrange noticeable on certain vocal recordings. Soundstage and sense of envelopment are comparatively flat and two-dimensional, especially next to reference-quality speakers with strong 3D imaging. Marketed as a “three-way” design mainly due to an added super-tweeter that the reviewer considers largely superfluous - it engages only at very high frequencies and adds complexity without a clearly audible benefit, when that cost might have been better spent on the main crossover. Output-limited: realistic ceiling is around the mid-90s dB SPL at a few meters, with comfortable listening closer to 75-85dB at 3-4 meters before distortion and compression become audible. Bass noticeably compresses/shelves below about 120Hz as volume increases, softening kick-drum impact at higher output. Smaller drivers and a lighter motor structure than rivals like the Polk XT20, which the reviewer generally prefers for its better directivity and higher SPL capability. Still needs a subwoofer for any real bass extension.
How it compares: Just above it: ELAC Debut 2.0 B5.2 - $51 more, 0.5Hz higher bass extension (-3dB). Just below it: Paradigm Monitor SE Atom - $40 more, 2.5Hz higher bass extension (-3dB).
| Bass Extension (-10dB) | 54Hz (measured, Erin's Audio Corner) |
|---|---|
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 80Hz (measured, Erin's Audio Corner) |
| Dimensions | 13.2"H x 7"W x 8.7"D (335 x 178 x 220 mm) |
| Drivers | 5.12" woofer, 0.98 in tweeter |
| Impedance | 6 ohms |
| Sensitivity | 82.5dB |
| Supertweeter | 0.75 in |
| Weight | 9.5 lbs / 4.3 kg each |
| Woofer Cabinet | ported, rear |
- Links
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
- Sony SS-CS5 M2 vs ELAC Debut 2.0 B5.2
- Sony SS-CS5 M2 vs Paradigm Monitor SE Atom
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- Sony SS-CS5 M2 vs Boston Acoustics A25
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- Sony SS-CS5 M2 vs JBL Stage 2 250B
- Sony SS-CS5 M2 vs Polk Audio XT15
- Sony SS-CS5 M2 vs Wharfedale Diamond 220
- Sony SS-CS5 M2 vs Dynaudio X14
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- Sony SS-CS5 M2 vs KEF Q150
- Sony SS-CS5 M2 vs JBL L52 Classic
- Sony SS-CS5 M2 vs JBL Stage A120
- Sony SS-CS5 M2 vs ELAC Uni-Fi 2.0 UB52
- Sony SS-CS5 M2 vs Wharfedale Diamond 12.1
- Sony SS-CS5 M2 vs KEF Q100
- Sony SS-CS5 M2 vs Q Acoustics 3020i
- Sony SS-CS5 M2 vs Wharfedale Super Denton
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