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B&W 800 D4's, Room size, & general Q's

Hey all,

Not sure if this was the appropriate sub-forum, I'm pretty new to all this stuff, and would appreciate any insight you can offer. I am building a new home (almost complete), and leaning towards adding a pair of B&W 800 series D4 to my office. The room is approximately 18'x17'x10'H. Not sure if this makes a difference, but my builder has sound proofed the right side wall where I plan to place the towers in front of (see picture link), as well as the ceiling. I'm not sure what he used to sound proof, but it's behind the dry wall & some wood paneling. In the pic, the "furniture" isn't to scale or anything, just a rough estimate. Link to room pic: https://imgur.com/a/MgpHATC

My questions:
  1. For this room size, would the B&W 802 D4 be the correct choice in the 800 series lineup? Or should I go bigger (801 D4) or smaller (803 D4)?
  2. Does it matter that my towers will be off center within the room itself?
  3. Would it be a waste to spend this much on a sound system when I did not specifically design the room to be used as a hifi listening room?
  4. What electronics would you recommend to pair with the B&W's? I was leaning towards all McIntosh.

My max budget is around $100,000 all in for this sound system. B&W 802 D4's + McIntosh would get me to around $50k, and I'd be content spending only that amount. That being said, I'm open to suggestions other than B&W and/or McIntosh electronics (i.e. if there are electronics that pair better with B&W). Thanks in advance!


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erik_squires
16,414 posts
 
I think the room is fine, but I find B&W and Mc bright independently and more so together.  Mind you that doesn't mean you should not go that route but I want you to think about the combination and the room.

Try to listen on the mid-axis instead of the tweeters. Consider Ayre or Luxman counter points to listen to. 

Can you treat the room?  If so, strongly recommend the use of diffusors and absorbers, but wait until your gear is in.  If you find it too bright or too boomy that will help you decide what you nee more of.

Above all, make yourself happy, not me.  I'm just suggesting you consider the tonal character and your alternatives.
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verdantaudio's avatar
verdantaudio
1,508 posts
 
From a system building perspective, there is a lot that you can do.  B&W and McIntosh are the best known of hi-fi brands and they both have their following and are wonderful brands.  But they are polarising and have particular sound profiles that you may or may not like.  

They are not necessarily the best products that you can get for your taste.  I know if is a giant PITA with COVID resurging but if you are going to spend $100K, you need to get out and listen.  This is the best way to ensure you are going to end up with an awesome sounding system?

Where do you live (just region)?  We might be able to recommend dealers or others where you can hear some gear.  It might be that your initial guess is spot on and that is exactly what you want.  But I would think you would rather be certain.  
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