B&W 801 Matrix or JBL L150

N802's can handle any power/volume you throw at them and the 801 midrange would slightly break up. I even had the NorthCreek crossovers which made the 801's sing. Bass is not a problem, I have always used 2 B&W ASW 800 matrix subs and they blend just fine. You will never regret owning a pair of the 801's though, go that route.

How does the earlier 801 series 80 compares? There is a local guy selling it for a good price.

B&W
JBL sound dated

Just got a pair of 801 matrix for $1200 two days ago. Pushed by an old Dynaco I soldered originally in 1978 and fixed occasionally over the years the sonic image is huge compared to my old set-up: b&w 685's with b&w 650 sub. I don't hear how you could go wrong with these. Just fabulous.

I have owned many high end speakers through out the years but mostly B&W lines. I started out with 804 Matrix. it sounds awesome for it size and price. Then I upgraded to 804N, 802N and then down grade to 801 Matrix series II. When I first hooked up to 801 Matrix with the same driven power amp and pre-amp (Mcintosh MC2500 and MX119). Wow what was a different between used price 802N and 801 Matrix (average $4500 comp. to $1700, respectively.)802N lacks of bass and high. 801 Matrix is really details, clarity, and warm. But mid of 801 is not clear as 802N. I won't get tired or bored listen to 801 Matrix II. I probably hold on to this longer after upgrading and changing speakers from Martin Logan, Mcintosh XR19, LS360, Klipsch Belles, AR3. I absolutely agree to most threads above. For 801 Matrix, you really needs strong SS amp, recommended 300 watt/ch and up. I did try to compare between MC2500 and MC7270. The bass which driven by MC7270 kind of rumble/hash bass compare to the other driven by MC2500.