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B&W 803D - Best amplifiers to drive them

Hi!

I actually have a few questions and I would really appreciate your wisdom on them:
1) 803D versus 802D - other than prize and size, is there is significant SQ difference, or if under budget constraints one settle for the 803D as they are 'almost' there?
2) Used 803D, how does one test a 2nd hand used speaker? Is there any way one can tell other than listening (auditioning) and visual inspection? Are there any key look outs?
3) The main question - which amplifiers drive the 803D the best? the rating says 50-500 watts, but that is a huge range at 8 ohms!!!!

Please do let me know
Thank you.
K
kelpie
sacman
125 posts
 
I found B&W match very welll with the Krell FPB amps.

QN
kelpie OP
6 posts
 
Thanks.
telescope_trade
555 posts
 
Peachtree Audio is a great match for my B&W's. I have owned a lot of other B&W's including the 802D with various amps and this is the best so far.
If I do get another amp, it will most likely be a bigger Peach, but the Nova 125 is more than plenty of clean musical power.
mark_nz
48 posts
 
I previously owned the 803D - it still a great easy to listen loudspeaker. Re your questions:
1. auditioned 802D a few times - more open midrange, bigger bass not as well controlled as 803D. So for 802D recommend choosing an amplifier with reputation for tight bass control.
2. visual expectation for checking drivers in perfect order. Kevlar midrange tends to go darker and more orange as ages, but accelerated by exposure to sun. Check for consistent veneer colour for cherry wood. Obviously listen to loudspeakers - make sure you like what you hear, but understand dependency on gear driving the loudspeaker.
3. I drove the 803D with 60W amplifier - quality and good current capability more important than watts. At simplistic level, solid state amps that double watts from 8 to 4 to 2 ohms indicates good current capability.
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