A question on a B&W high pass filter


I have a B&W 800 series variable high pass alignment filter for my 803 matrix speakers. I have never used it & wondered if I need to? What would I be expected to hear? Or should I just sell it & forget it? Also, what is the thing worth? New, in box. I never hooked it up since i had no idea of why I would need to. If you can help me understand this question, please answer. Thanks.....
rws1950
I found this thread via google when I was researching a question about these filters. I was able to get a B&W 801 high pass filter. This one doesn't have the dip switches to set the filter to a specific 800 series speaker. It is preset for the 801 series B&W speaker only. Would it be bad if I used this filter along with the B&W Matrix 805 bookshelf speakers? I haven't tried it yet and don't want to risk damaging the 805s I have.

Thanks
The short answer is that you probably won't damage your speaker (as long as you don't overpower them), but you also are not going to get much benefit. The filter is preset for the Freq. response of the 801. The variable filter allows you to set the response to the various models (See this link for detailed specs-http://kenrockwell.com/audio/b-w/800-series-bass-alignment-filter.htm). If anything , it might muddy the sound of the speakers. A third party manufactured these devices, and the parts are kinda crappy. If you really want to use the filter, I'd suggest selling this one and keep looking for the variable version with the DIP switches. Good Luck!
Hi Elee

Thanks for the input. I'm following your suggestion. I wonder if I do get the variable version if I should pay to have the parts upgraded. From pictures I've seen of the interior it doesn't look so bad. The power supply I couldn't tell though if it was shoddy.