B&W 803d vs. B&W 804s - Fast Input

I've had both relatively recently for extended periods (purchased the 804S lived with them for about six months and then upgraded to the 803D lived with them for about six months and have now moved on) and it's not even close. The 803D is in a whole other league - the diamond tweeter, the midrange transparency and the bass. If you have the funds, don't waste your time auditioning the 804S. Frankly, the 803D is where B&W starts.

I have owned the 804S for 18months, upgraded to the 803D two months ago.
In comparison, for the 804S:
- smaller footprint and lower height more elegant for small/medium rooms.
- lean bass results in virtually no bass boom,
- surprisingly deep and articulate bass for relatively small loudspeaker
- more open neutral midrange (less of a dip in the presence zone)
On other hand, 803D is:
- deeper, fuller, has more tonal colour through bass
- seems easier to drive since not as much volume needed to get decent bass
- smoother transition and integration between drivers
- diamond tweeter smoother, more relaxed

I enjoyed the 804S open midrange but I could not live with the lean bass balance in the long-term. The 803D is a substantial improvement for me.

Thanks, folks. Listening tonight, and then wieghing the cost/benefit. Big question is how much I will regret not moving up vs. how much will I regret spending the money. The speaker will be with me longer than the few thousand$, I guess.

DId the listening last night. Went with the 803d. Both are wonderful speakers, but there is a difference. But there is this pair of 802ds on their floor, and they are in Rosenut... Well, you have to stop somewhere, and I did with the 803d. But if, when everything arrives next week, I decide that the 802d WOULD fit in the space.. who knows? It is a slippery slope
Thanks for your help

But there is this pair of 802ds on their floor, and they are in Rosenut... Well, you have to stop somewhere, and I did with the 803d. But if, when everything arrives next week, I decide that the 802d WOULD fit in the space.. who knows? It is a slippery slope

In my opinion, unless you have massive power and a good size room, stick with the 803D's, I suspect you'll be happier.