802s are easier to drive,can go with less power,801s especially the eariler matrix and 2 need a minimun of 200 wpc,they sound great but the 15"woofer needs and eats up power,the dual woofers in the 802 are more tighter in my opinion,and the stands make a difference.I would go with the 802s and it,s not because I own a pair it,s that I was able to hear both the 801s and 802 side by side with S/S and even tubes and the 802s sound better.Cant you see why that the new 802 Natilus when they are up for sale on Audiogon sell very fast.
Differences between B&W Matrix 802 and801
I'm a B&W Matrix 802 owner. I love the sound, but wonder what I'm missing because I didn't get the 801 model. To all B&W owners and admirers that have experience with both models, what are the differences you have heard, and what ancillary equipment did you use with them ie; amps, preamps, cables,tubes,solidstate, etc. I've always loved the sound of these speakers and anyone who says their sound is mid-fi or bright didn't have the right set up. I'm using Matrix 802 series 3 on dedicated stands driven by B&K EX 442 amp 200 watts per channel (dual mono), ARC LS-7 tube preamp and Tara labs RSC prime 1000 Bi-wire (15 ft.) Let me Know what you think. Thanks for your comments. Poloman