I had listened to the original 801s with Mark Levinson amplification in a room no larger than yours back in the day. Albeit, the ceiling was higher. This was at the store's "hi-end" room and they sounded very good. As I recall, the room was lined with bookshelves and books. The bass was not overbearing, but detailed and palpable. I'm not sure about your 8' ceiling.
Kenny
Kenny