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That is a good question. I picked up a very well made pair of Encores and I can tell you they are the real deal if built right with the cross over parts etc..I do not have any of the OB designs to compare them to, but I will say I really enjoy the Encores and do plan on getting into the OB products in the near future. Of the OB gives me more of what I am hearing .... yes sign me up! What I did is read a ton of threads on the subject in the GR forum and also New Record Day reviews are a great source and provides sound clips and reviews many of the GR Research product line.