B&W Nautilus 802D, Wilson Sophia 2, or others?


I'm getting the upgrade itch again. My current speakers are Nautilus 802's and I am using a VAC PHI 110 setup with 8db negative feedback. The speaker impedance curve won't let me use the zero feedback setting. Overall the system sounds very good. Areas, I would like to improve would be bass impact or punch, a bit more clarity in the midrange. The room is approximately 15 by 14 with a vaulted ceiling going from 8 to 11ft. It is also open at the very top to a kitchen/dining room area so it acts like a bigger room. It does have a room peak in the 30-40hz range with a null around the 60hz range that I believe robs some impact. I love the looks of the Nautilus speaker and what I have does sound very good. From the reviews I have read the Diamond version improves in the areas I feel need improvement but still presents a difficult load requiring the amp to use negative feedback. The Wilson Sophia might present an easier load allowing Zero feedback with some sonic gain just from that change alone. I am a bit concerned that the Wilsons are ported to the rear since the front wall behind the speakers has seven foot wide french doors in the middle which might present a reflection problem. I have not listened to either speaker but metro Phx has dealers for both. Would somebody that is basically happy with the B&W speakers like the Wilson Sophias or should I just stick with the 802D's? Any other speaker recommendations that are compatible with the VAC amp? I don't like the looks of any speaker that looks like the basic box with drivers in it. Listening preferences are primarily jazz and vocals. I usually listen to music with peaks less than 90db but sometimes crank to peaks around 100db. I don't want it to crap out if I want to crank it. If anyone has upgraded from 802's to Diamond version, I would also appreciate your comments. Thanks
rhljazz

Showing 3 responses by panny

I bought N.E.A.R's and had them modified and they are awesome.I audititioned the B&W's before I got in touch of Bill K. who just happened to have a few sets left and had worked on his pairs .

I could spen 1000's for better sound ,but why?

I hope that I find a good front end to accompany them now.

The Mid range suckout turned me off on B&W's other wise they are great speakers.
Just to add I am considering Wilsons when I get the money and have been inquring of what might be the amplification to be used.

With the advent of nerw Class D amps I wnder if they are up to the chore or if their are Class A amps like Plinius that might do better.

What turns me off to Cl.D amps are they are relatively inexpensive to manufacture so I cannot justify paying more than 1K for one.

I guess the most expensive part is the cosmetics and if they use ultra expensive components to justify the price.