Swan M50W vs Swan M200MKII

Hey everyone,

Long time lurker and first time poster on Head-Fi! I was wondering about which to bite on? There is a deal right now for M200MKIIs + 2 H2s for $309, and M50W's for $279. The prices are comparable, but I was wondering your opinions? Space should not be an issue, as I am not a true audiophile (yet) and can't really see myself being able to distinguish the difference in space placement for the speakers. 

To elaborate more, I've read that the M200s need to be spaced 3-6 feet apart with a 6 foot distance for optimum hearing. That's a non-issue for me.

I realize that the M50s have a sub, but I've also read that the M200's are more than adequate, and I can always upgrade later. I do like to listen to all varieties of music, but sub is also a non-issue for me. 

I've done some research on them, but I can't say that I am knowledgeable enough to make an educated decision... I have read raving reviews for Swan for the price-point and quality, and have decided to go with them. I was planning on purchasing the M-10s but I think paying more now for some decent speakers will pay off in the end.

Anyways, if you have them or have been able to audition them, I'd really appreciate your input. Thanks in advance!

ninja edit: I don't plan to go over $300- I initially only wanted to spend about 150-200. If you have any suggestions that match the aesthetics and sound quality of these models, please do suggest!

Late night bump before I go to bed. 

Hey trog,

Thanks for the advice. I am mainly considering adding the H2's on because they are included in the deal. 289$ for the pair of M200s and  $309 for the pair + 2 H2s. I'm just a sucker for extras.

Is there a reason to suggest the D1080s? That sounds like a viable option, but is there a difference in sound quality or anything? I can eventually throw in a sub, but the sub isn't so important right now. I'd rather buy into a quality starter set and build later... If I can have a 4.0 system right now, then it isn't out of the question to make it a 5.1 system later is it? 

I have been trying to find a good paired sub with the M200 but I haven't found anything that really pairs seamlessly with it. There appears to be conflicts with the frequencies that end up canceling each other out... Not that I can really say why or how.. Anyone have a suggestion for that?

Also, amp+ passive is not ruled out, but wouldn't I need to purchase a receiver with that? Sorry if I sound ignorant, the truth is... I am. And that's why I'm here to learn :D. Not saying a receiver is out of the question, but I think $300 is my budget right now.

I think what has attracted me most to Swan is the quality and beauty, but if anyone can suggest some speakers similar in aesthetics and quality then I am more than open to them. The Infinities look nice, but how do they compare to the M200s? They are definitely on my list to consider now.

Anyone have any other suggestions? Thanks again!

So what are the benefits of purchasing computer speakers vs speakers that require an amp/receiver? My speakers will be in my room, so subs are not a must right now.

I think for now, I just want some great sounding speakers. Quality of receivers/amps/anything else aren't a necessity, and I don't think I really want/need a sub for my room right now.

That being said, I was only thinking of the M200s+H2s because they came with the H2s for pretty much the same price. 

After researching a little more into the Primus I don't know if I want to go with those right now. Anything else to suggest for now? I was also looking into some Onkyo speakers http://www.amazon.com/Onkyo-SKS-HT540-Channel-Theater-Speaker/dp/B000GU78Z4/ref=sr_1_3?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1315712139&sr=1-3, but what does everyone else think? I was thinking of just building my set up little by little. 

The most important part is a good start. Thanks again for the help!

Hi Jodiuh, I actually picked up the M200MKII's. They sound great, and I am, for the most part, very satisfied with my purchase. While I don't have much to compare, the M200s have larger mid-woofers- according to The Audio Insider's spec information, they have 5.25" woofers, while the M10s do not.

The M10s are definitely smaller, but I wanted to have that little bit extra... Just in case. Though, after testing out the H2s, size does not matter so much. The H2s are very portable, and also pack a punch- I was surprised. I am sure you will be satisfied with your purchase regardless.

A couple of things: For some reason my M200s started randomly oscillating while it was idling (and I was sleeping). It happened a few times. I spoke with the rep I purchased from, and he said that it was a fluke- that he's never had it happen. I still have to change the input cables to see if it is an input issue or a hardware issue. Minus this problem, they sound great. High quality, crisp sound, very punchy, clean bass, etc. Which leads me to my second point...

I am by no means a technical expert, and an audiophile-in-training so to speak... With years to go. Feel free to ask me more questions and I will do my best to answer them. Bottom line: I was quite satisfied with my M200's and would highly recommend (even with the issue I mentioned), but I don't have much authority one the subject, as I was not able to try the M10s (or other speakers for that matter). Hope this helped.