I know that you specifically asked for comparisons but I have never heard the newer model. I own a pair of Extremas which also has the Esotar tweeter and I auditioned a pair of EA with the Esotar tweeter.
I was considering an upgrade form my SF Electors and sat down to listen to the the EA's. The only term I can use to describe them is awe struck. They sounded beyond what I thought was technologically possible and after an hour of there sweet sound I had to hear the Extremas. The only thing I could think of was if they sound that good what does the Extrema sound like.
The highs are so sweet, natural, and refined. They image like crazy and you cant help but to tap your foot when listening to them.
I did find one draw back though. The treble is so full that you need a lot of bass to level them out. I bought a Rel Stentor which I thought fell a little short. The rel is the bass equvalant of the SF treble but there just wasnt enough volume in one sub to get good balance. I ended up with two Stentors and have been in audio heaven since.
No matter which one you choose get yourself a couple of Rels to go with them.
I was considering an upgrade form my SF Electors and sat down to listen to the the EA's. The only term I can use to describe them is awe struck. They sounded beyond what I thought was technologically possible and after an hour of there sweet sound I had to hear the Extremas. The only thing I could think of was if they sound that good what does the Extrema sound like.
The highs are so sweet, natural, and refined. They image like crazy and you cant help but to tap your foot when listening to them.
I did find one draw back though. The treble is so full that you need a lot of bass to level them out. I bought a Rel Stentor which I thought fell a little short. The rel is the bass equvalant of the SF treble but there just wasnt enough volume in one sub to get good balance. I ended up with two Stentors and have been in audio heaven since.
No matter which one you choose get yourself a couple of Rels to go with them.