Looking at Focal


I'm looking to replace my B&W 803s for the Focal Kanta 3.  It's hard for me to travel so can't go listen. What differences could I expect I have an upgraded Carver TFM 45 & a 1070 Rotel pre.
fertguy
Focal, B&W, Magico all have different well documented “house sounds”.  I think which one chooses depends on personal preference.   Everyone will have a different opinion.  Only you will know what’s best for you. 

"Everyone will have a different opinion.  Only you will know what’s best for you." I couldn't agree more! You need to listen and let your own ears decide.
At that price, consider the ATC SCM40 passive.

I would never recommend buying a speaker without listening to it first.
Good luck and have fun in your search.  I too shop exclusively in the used market.  Speakers obviously present a greater challenge to buying and reselling, but can still be handled with some effort.  Be sure and watch each speaker's respective present value in the marketplace and pay a fair price.  I enjoy the research and hearing other's experiences with audio gear, but understand that it is not necessarily transferable to my system.  I have Platinum Audio Quattros that have four 4.5in drivers...good bass isn't possible, right??  Well, I can tell you that in my large space of 16x45 with 10' ceilings, their bass out-performed Focal 1038Be with those three 7in woofers!  They were also too bright for my taste so I resold.  I recently got a pair of 1st gen Wilson Audio Sophias.  They outperform the Focals in every way in my space.  I haven't ever heard B&W in my home, but hope to one day.  All this to say Sophias should be thrown into the ring to potentially gain the spot in your room.  There is debate of which gen of the 3 is best, but all can be had for under $10k.