New Speakers under consideration - but I’m afraid
I really like my speakers but I am considering an upgrade. I have B&W 801 S2 MkIII that I bought new in 1999 (re-coned with modded x-over). I’m afraid that what I get will not equal them and new may just be different.
They are bi-amped with McIntosh up top and Krell on the bottom. Analog is Revox B77 and dig is Oppo 105D with Bryston DAC3.
I will also likely upgrade the DAC but this thread is about speakers.
I need a dynamic loudspeaker that is as good with chamber music as it is with acoustic jazz, rock and electronic music (everything but Country and Rap).
I haven’t heard anything yet but am considering Borrersen X3, Wilson Sasha and B&W 803 D4.
Should I be afraid or will these speakers all best a 25 yr old design?
@ritter06 - I suggest you bring CDs to test speakers. When I demoed many speakers, I used a selection of CDs to test: familiar music, piano, violins, female and male voices, trumpet, orchestra… For acoustic instruments tests, I used a CD Test discs like the Sheffield Lab test cd. During demos, I was evaluating accuracy and involvement (whether the speaker resonated with me) Best of luck in your hunt |
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I think it's safe to say that based on the rapidly rising technology curve you'll find some really compelling options that'll best your existing set. To make a direct comparison re: your B&W's vs a new pair will be tough unless you bring your electronics with you to the new speaker demo (or they give you a trial period at home) you'll never really know if the improvement is solely in the speaker section or comprised of all the parts. I'd push for a trial period at home because not only will there be differing electronics at the store you're also demoing in a completely different room than you have at home. I just bought a new pair of Klipsch La Scala that I have paired with an MA12000 and absolutely love them. Good luck! |
