B&W 802D1 - How can I tame the brightness?

B&W upgrade kits….

These speakers and all the tweaks offered by other forum members (and now upgrade kits) suggests there are just some flaws with the design. Is this tweaking and upgrade path normal with speakers?

Are the 802’s (for example) the equivalent of the original Linn turntable that requires (in most cases) constant upgrades or fettling to please their owners?
Just adding the simile because the Linn comparison evidence is out there for all to see, and often on this forum.

Saying that, l have never heard of so much frustration or irritation with any specific model of speaker before. Every brand l have ever bought has never needed to be rewired or altered unless cosmetic repair or treatment was required.

I would just trade or sell these B&W’s on if they are that bad, but for me an audition first would have avoided all the fuss. Throwing more money at electronics is not always the best option.

There are many types of speakers which can be overly bright; ribbons, horns, etc….. 

One thing to consider is parametric equalization (PEQ) or low pass filters applied in the digital domain before your DAC.
Additionally it's desirable if you can achieve a "Harman tilt" or "Harman target curve" for a more enjoyable listening experience.

We have a video which overviews one way of doing using miniDSP Device Console  
 

@onehorsepony, 

I had the same issue with the entire B&W 800 series line and ended up purchasing Aerial Acoustics some 30 years back and been there ever since.

I would check into other speaker lines and if possible check in room for audition.

Good luck and happy listening!

DeeCee

Did you ever consider contacting PS Audio: Since you own their premiere product, I am sure Paul & his customer service  dept would be most happy to help you.
 

I am not sure how long you have owned the 802D1’s, but it could be you just don’t like them and the issue is not fixable, PS Audio and B&W may not be a good match. your room maybe overly bright. Like everything in audio, there are too many variables.

You don’t say what the rest of your gear is. 
 

b&w’s are highly revealing of components that add noise and distort highs. 

you likely need better gear especially better cables.