B&W 683 floor standers

Have you heard the 683? I've heard them a few times and didn't like them at all. The bass is a little improved over the previous model, but not much IMO. My biggest complaint is that they sound very un-cohesive. The lows, mids, and highs all seem to be detached from each other some how. Its hard to describe. The previous version didn't have this problem.

Everyone's ears are different. I've heard the 683 in a few different rooms and in a few different systems, and came to the same conclusion every time.

JR

I like the 603 better than the 604 as well. The bass was better controlled IMO. They both sounded a bit boomy to my ears. The 683 improved the bass, but messed up some other stuff IMO. Its all a trade off. The uncohesiveness I've heard in them wasn't due to electronics or the rooms. I've heard them with Mac, Bryston, Rotel, and NAD gear. Same results every time. Everyone's ears are different.

Regardless of this issue, I think going from 603s to 683s is more or less a lateral move. Perhaps a little better, but not a night and day difference in the end. I think it'll be more of a change than a true upgrade. If you're after significantly more bass energy, I doubt the 683 will be much of an upgrade.

If bass is your problem, have you tried playing around with placement? Improper placement can cause a ton of problems, most notably bass issues. There's no one correct way to place a pair of speakers, and a lot of it is trial and error. Here's a link to a great placement article if you're unsure about it -

http://www.audiophysic.com/aufstellung/beispiel_e.html

Also, what does the rest of your system consist of?

If that's not the problem, an excellent speaker I heard are the Revel Concerta F12 for about $1500. They've got a ton of bass and sound great too. I heard them next to the 683s and there was no contest to my ears. There was nothing the 683 did that the F12s didn't do far better. If you need low end slam and punch, these are a must audition IMO. I really liked them, but my room is way too small for them.

Just my opinions. Take them as you will.

JR

Pdn,

Making the room better will improve any system. Its a great direction to go. $1k curtains? Now I'm curious as to how much my wife paid. In fairness, we're always honest about our expendatures whenever asked. Key words - whenever asked.

I can see where you're coming from in regards to apprehension to getting a "boomier speaker." I highly doubt it'll go the way you thing it will. The bass is stronger, but far more accurate and realistic IMO. Its tighter and deeper, being truer to the source. I highly doubt it'll sound overblown, unless of course the room isn't appropriate. If you've got a dealer near by, stop in and check them out. They're a very interesting speaker. I was very surprised by them. They're worthy of all the praise they got a while back IMO.