Although my comments are based on demos in stores, I think it's a matter of quality vs quantity. The 801S3 definitely produces more, and weightier bass. IMHO, it isn't very realistic when compared to the bass of the N802. It might be a tad leaner, but to me sounds more like real music. The smaller footprint also lends itself to better setup in the avg sized room.
You might want to try taking some measurements w/sound meter & test CD, if you haven't done so. Often, "big bass" turns out to be room modes that should really be tamed to get the balance back closer to flat. At any rate, it might give you a different perspective on some of what you're hearing from the 2 models you have now. See rives.com for more details on how to do this if you need details. Their downloadable chart makes it easy to do. Cheers, Spencer
You might want to try taking some measurements w/sound meter & test CD, if you haven't done so. Often, "big bass" turns out to be room modes that should really be tamed to get the balance back closer to flat. At any rate, it might give you a different perspective on some of what you're hearing from the 2 models you have now. See rives.com for more details on how to do this if you need details. Their downloadable chart makes it easy to do. Cheers, Spencer