Any B&W 802D/800D alternatives looks and sound?

Well I have been looking at 802Ds and have listened to them 5 or so times. I think one of there greatest features is their wide sound stage and looks. I looked at several brands (focal, Wilson Duette, martin logan). After all of my listening I liked the 802D best.

That was until I heard the Thiel 3.7. It is a great speaker and looks good too. The sound stage was bigger and located musicians better than the 802D. The midrange is much sweeter and more detailed (I find the 802D biggest flaw is the recessed mids). There was not as much bass but it was still potent, detailed, and never lacking. But the most notable thing about the Thiel is that nothing stood out. It was all great and very very coherent. At $13,000 you should put them on your list of speakers to hear. I have all but forgotten about B&W after my Thiel audition.

You really need to get out and listen. What brands do the dealers that are close to you carry? I would start with brands that are local. If nothing knocks you out then look at other brands. IMO with just a little looking B&Ws will be out done. I once rolled my eyes at comments like that but I have found it to be true. One other thing to consider is that the 802D take some very big amps ($$$) to get the best out of them. While some other brands (say Wilson Sophia) will not take the monster power the 802D needs. So even though the Wilson cost more up front they my be cheaper in the long run...

Also if you find a speaker that you like but is not enough to buy. Some one could suggest a speaker that does what you are looking for better. Can you list some of the brands your local dealers carry?

I would like to note, that I like B&Ws pretty well even though my posts do not seem like it. I still keep a pair of 703s in the bedroom. There are many other brands that have less performance for the same dollar.