Stereophile spec measurement baffling(pun?)

Agreed. Stereophile is respected for its balance of objectivity and subjectivity, with extensive listening tests backed by proper measurements. ASR and AS, on the other hand, represent two extreme ends of the spectrum, though they shouldn't be discredited for what they contribute. Audiophiles simply need to digest the information more intelligently.

I'm trying to get an idea of where to begin the setup of a B&W ASW800 with a pair of B&W 805 matrices.

Maybe this will help see here

Mike

Thanks ditusa. This looks like a great read.

@OP, the 805 matrix has a bit of a bump between 100 and 120Hz and falls off fairly rapidly below 80Hz so you probably want to cross it over somewhere around or below 80Hz. Ideally, use a set of bass test tones and an spl meter to check the frequency response of the speakers in your room first though, as the above is only a guide based on the room averaged response that Stereophile measured.