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B W CDM 9 NT versus Nautilus 804

After extensive listening and numerous increases in my speaker budget, I have narrowed my search to one of the above B&W speakers. These speakers will be my first hi-end audiophile purchase. I will have to upgrade components slowly, but figured speakers would be my first big expense. I will use them for 60% music, %40 HT. Music ranges from Mahler to occas. Metallica and everything in between.

My question is this: I have seen the N804's on sale here for around $2500, about the same price as a new CDM 9NT. However, I have not seen many used CDM 9NT's listed. I can afford either pair. Should I step up to the Nautilus line and buy used, or should I stick with a new pair of the 9 NTs? Interested in any advice the more experienced may have.
brewsky
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snooker14
164 posts
 
Great post Bob! I am very impressed with the amount of detail. I have 802N , 805N , 804N , 802M-3 and 805M in my house. For obvious weighty reasons the 802Ns do not get moved. Also have the bigger center channel nautilus. I agree that the Nautlius series is a whole step up. I started 20 years ago with B&W and I am still there. My old DM-14s are going to one of the kids soon.
Sorry Brewsky, but I have not heard the CDM9T so I cannot comment. I am going to switch the 804N from the home theater to a 2-channel system in the bedroom soon, placing the 802M-3s in their place just to see what happens. If I remember I'll come back to this thread and let you know . Meanwhile, Bob seems to have the best info for you.
seehack
6 posts
 
I listened to both the CDM 9NT and 804N with the same front end and CDs. I can hear the obvious difference and decide on the 804N. Clearer, better soundstage, imaging ... like the above extensive input. I bought the 804N used instead of new CDM 9NT. Of course if I could afford it, I would get the 803N used.
dbui1
28 posts
 
Excellent posts Bob and Snooker14! I also owned the Nautilus 803 and I'd be curious to hear what amps you are both running for Nautilus speakers.
Best Regards,
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snooker14
164 posts
 
Dbuil:
805N = Cary sli80 integ. tube w/ 303 CD player
804N = Krell kav250a in home theater
802N = Classe401 w/ Meridian 508-24
I find the krell the least enjoyable so it stays in the theater where the Lexicon can process it . The other theater channels are Bryston. Anyone want to trade my Krell for Bryston?
brewsky OP
1 posts
 
Thanks for the responses my friends. They have helped and at least I know that I am not the only one that really enjoys the B&W sound. Plus, my wife liked the looks of the N804s more but didn't like the price tag of new set. Going
with a used pair may be just the thing to do.

I am also interested in what amp pairings everyone is using with these speakers. I have heard Rotel, Classe', and Bryston's pair nicely with B&W. Not sure about B&K, ATI, or the new Outlaw amp. Any opinions?

Thanks again for the helpful advice.
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