B&W 801 Matrix or JBL L150

Matrix S2 have protection to keep from over blowing hence their higher power rating but muddier sound compared to s3. Look for S3 which have no protection, cleaner path /better sound and assume responsible individuals.

Krell - which version did you have ? No problem with mine using two classe 300 amps ?

Put S3 on sound anchor stands along with the b&w high pass alignment filter and you will never need another speaker.

But warning they need alot of space like any great speaker to breathe. If you dont have the space to give them a few feet all around I would think again about it.

I listen to mine in nearfield. They are 6 feet from front wall and 8 feet from sides. I sit 7 feet away from them.

Cheers.

B&W 801's are good speakers, they need a proper stand for the height, when setup correctly they can be very rewarding and are a bargain at there current prices .

regards,

Old thread, but I’ll bump it..... My main favorite speakers for over 20yrs now have been my Matrix 801 Series2’s, which I bought used for $2200. Over the years I’ve tried many times to replace them, only to return to them. I’m so glad I never got rid of them. I have done many upgrades to the stock crossovers, upgrading all caps, and re-orienting the inductors to reduce crosstalk. I also tried the North Creek crossovers, and did NOT like the new sound.... Many thanks to N.C. for allowing me to return them for a 90% refund. I’ve tried varying stand heights which greatly affects the LF response, and I’ve settled on raising them just 3.5" with stands conveniently made of 4x4’s. With stands any higher than 6" and the LF gets thin, and I’m not properly aligned the tweeter/midrange when seated, but you may find differently...... I’ve had speakers with more detail & resolution... blah blah..... But THESE 801’s simply sound natural & cohesive with minimal colorations, and perfect bass in my room. BTW... I drive them with a Bryston 4B-ST, or my Nakamichi PA-7AmkII.