Both are fine speakers the B&Ws are more dynamic. Both have challenges in regards to placement. B&W have a tricky first reflecion and Vandersteen can be a little on the dry side if you have them too far apart.
B&W 802D vs Vandersteen 5 used
I am looking to upgrade my system. One consideration (among many) is upgrading the speakers. B&W 802D's go used for $8k and up. Vandersteen 5 go for $5k up. This is obviously not the new Vandersteen 5A.
I would be powering the front speakers with a McCormack DNA225 upgraded to the platinum version. The processor is an Anthem D2 (with ARC the room correction). The digital are McCormack UDP1 Deluxe and Denon 3800 Bluray.
I enjoy detail, voicing, seperation, and want that elusive "musical" feel without being dark or blurred. I also do not want bright and harsh. We listen to a very wide variety of music from Rock, Blues, Jazz, etc. so we need versitality. We also watch a lot of music DVD's.
The speakers will be in a long room that goes from a family room to the kitchen, and proper placement is difficult, but I will do my best. Right now the surrounds and additional speakers are B&W Nautilus series, but can be changed. Since placement is limited due to cabinets and furniture (distance from the walls) I thought that maybe the Vandersteen 5 engineering dynamics would be more flexible as opposed to the 3 series which I have been told need a lot of space. Maybe I am wrong though.
What are your feelings on comparing these speakers? As stated in other threads I understand B&W are controversial, but the 802D seem to be one of their better efforts.
Thank you for any advice.
I would be powering the front speakers with a McCormack DNA225 upgraded to the platinum version. The processor is an Anthem D2 (with ARC the room correction). The digital are McCormack UDP1 Deluxe and Denon 3800 Bluray.
I enjoy detail, voicing, seperation, and want that elusive "musical" feel without being dark or blurred. I also do not want bright and harsh. We listen to a very wide variety of music from Rock, Blues, Jazz, etc. so we need versitality. We also watch a lot of music DVD's.
The speakers will be in a long room that goes from a family room to the kitchen, and proper placement is difficult, but I will do my best. Right now the surrounds and additional speakers are B&W Nautilus series, but can be changed. Since placement is limited due to cabinets and furniture (distance from the walls) I thought that maybe the Vandersteen 5 engineering dynamics would be more flexible as opposed to the 3 series which I have been told need a lot of space. Maybe I am wrong though.
What are your feelings on comparing these speakers? As stated in other threads I understand B&W are controversial, but the 802D seem to be one of their better efforts.
Thank you for any advice.
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