B&W 804s vs Usher Dance Mini-One


Hello Forum,

I currently own a like new pair of B&W 804s speakers. I am considering selling these speakers (approx 3k) and purchasing the Usher Dancer Mini-One or BE718. I think I can get the Ushers (used on Audiogon) plus an integrated amp (used around $1500) with HT bypass. I know I'll have to add some cash to get both. I've heard the Ushers and really enjoyed the sound, but I don't want to have any regrets on selling the B&W. The speakers would live in a small (11x12) room with only about 5ft. from the listening chair.

Anybody have opinions. For the Integrated amp, I'm considering Vincent, Creek, Bel Canto.

I am astounded at the knowledge on this forum and would really appreciate any feedback.
giantsfreak

Showing 2 responses by everest_audio

I think the Usher is a nice step up, but you can take that with a grain of salt if you want as I am an Usher dealer. Both the Mini Dancer One and the BE-718 will push the limits of that room, but it can work. I've used both in my room which is 11.5X14, and they can definitely overload the room at times on material with heavier bass. Also being a Bel Canto dealer, I do know that the S300iu integrated will drive both these speakers, but it is a minimum. I wouldn't consider any less power than the Bel Canto. The speakers do enjoy a lot of power thrown at them.
You said you'd like to "futureproof" a bit, so between the BE-718 and the Mini Dancer One, I'd definitely go with the MD1. It does extend a little bit deeper and is more room filling, but more importantly, it sounds better than the BE-718, IMHO. Plus, by the time you add a high quality stand to the BE-718, the price difference isn't that big. Plus, if it helps, the MD1 will take up a smaller footprint than the BE-718 on a sizeable stand and actually looks less imposing than a BE-718 on a stand. Don't get me wrong, I like the BE-718, but the MD1 is definitely worth the extra money if it was my choice and the budget allowed.