When I was working in a shop that sold both models, I actually preferred the balance of the 802. The 801 will better it, though, for sheer bass weight and slam (but will require a brawnier amp). All in all, taking the size, weight, appearance, and price into consideration, I would have taken the 802's (especially for average-size rooms) even if they sounded the same except for the bass. However, I found the 802 to be generally smoother and more listenable. Given that the mid/tweeter modules are the same between the two models, I would have to assume the difference lies either in the way the 801's 15" woofer must be crossed-over to the mid, and/or the demands it places on the partnering amplifier - either way, what the big woofer can gain you in the low bass seems to be prone to extracting a similar price through the mids. But I should add that my exposure to various set-ups with both speakers is somewhat limited (amplification on both tended to be big Levinson and ARC SS, cables Transparent or Monster, speakers were set up in the same large room), so my impressions must likewise be qualified.
Differences between B&W Matrix 802 and801
I'm a B&W Matrix 802 owner. I love the sound, but wonder what I'm missing because I didn't get the 801 model. To all B&W owners and admirers that have experience with both models, what are the differences you have heard, and what ancillary equipment did you use with them ie; amps, preamps, cables,tubes,solidstate, etc. I've always loved the sound of these speakers and anyone who says their sound is mid-fi or bright didn't have the right set up. I'm using Matrix 802 series 3 on dedicated stands driven by B&K EX 442 amp 200 watts per channel (dual mono), ARC LS-7 tube preamp and Tara labs RSC prime 1000 Bi-wire (15 ft.) Let me Know what you think. Thanks for your comments. Poloman
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- 4 posts total
- 4 posts total