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"The B&W Sound"

Does the "B&W sound" that may critics complain about have more to do with design or materials (perhaps both)? (i.e.: does a metal dome tweeter always impart a bright signature, or does it depend more on the crossover design?) I don't hate my 703's, but I'm certainly not satisfied either. I have been considering speakers that utilize a soft dome tweeter. What are the signatures (i.e.: weaknesses) of a soft dome design (if any)? Most importantly, what speakers will: 1.) Play at least as loud as the 703's (yes, I'm a product of the 70's -louder is better); 2.) Offer superior highs (smother, but still detailed); 3.) Rival or better the 703's bass response; 4.) Cost less!! ($2,000 - $3,000 range)??? I would like to hear from previous B&W users - preferably those who have replaced their 703's with speakers that offer a less fatiguing (i.e.: bright/harsh) sound.

Thanks,

Ben
2chnlben
jppenn
130 posts
 
You mention the '"B&W sound" that many critics complain about'. IMHO, it is precicely that these speakers are so incredibley accurate and do not have a sound (sonic signiture) that seems to be the "real" seed of these complaints/critics. Questionable cables, improper amplifier power, or other improperly matched source components, will rear their ugly heads with a top of the line B&W speaker. Conversely, these speaker sing with "the right stuff".
baffled
106 posts
 
Listen closely to what Sugarbrie said. I was very unhappy with my 800N's until I started upgrading the digital front end. A high end tube CDP added bass and smoothed out the treble a bit. I have a new tube preamp on the way. New cables too. I am confident my speakers are going to sound great.
You should have no trouble auditioning your speakers with some good gear. There seems to be a B&W dealer on every corner.
jaybo
4,478 posts
 
the 703's are very nice with the proper gear. no need to upgrade without a really big jump in price.
super_agent_86
23 posts
 
I do not have "the right stuff". Moving from CDN 1NT to Tylers Linbrooks ( Seas Tweeter). I can´t listen to music more than an hour!!! Having B & W´s speakers for than eight years, I feel is enough.
midirons
42 posts
 
Ben - Maybe you've already thought about some of this but....What about your room? It can, and likely does, have a huge impact on the sound of your system. What about speaker placement? Try listening with them straight ahead, then toe them in slightly, etc. There are a number of tweaks that will change and, in many cases, improve the sound of any speakers. Besides, tweaking the room is part of the fun. Good luck.
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