HMMMM, the B&W sound! I have heard some B&W in systems that I liked, and others that I did not! I myself was an avid B&W guy until I discovered JM Labs...Of course I had dreams of some Wilson Audio in my system, but it is a little to expensive for me. I have fallen in love with my JM Labs 926's. Smoothest overall presnetation I have heard from speakers in the price group. Used they would be a little more than what you 703's are worth, but I find their inverted dome tweeter to be most inviting to listen to. I would get some high-frequency fatigue while listening to my b&w's (602 s3's to the cdm-1nt's to the nautilus 805's in my speaker evolution) but I always thought that they created a good soundstage. I just think that the overall timberal balance of the JM Labs are much better. Best of luck! Try and get out and hear some other stuff, you will find something that tickles your fancy!
"The B&W Sound"
Does the "B&W sound" that may critics complain about have more to do with design or materials (perhaps both)? (i.e.: does a metal dome tweeter always impart a bright signature, or does it depend more on the crossover design?) I don't hate my 703's, but I'm certainly not satisfied either. I have been considering speakers that utilize a soft dome tweeter. What are the signatures (i.e.: weaknesses) of a soft dome design (if any)? Most importantly, what speakers will: 1.) Play at least as loud as the 703's (yes, I'm a product of the 70's -louder is better); 2.) Offer superior highs (smother, but still detailed); 3.) Rival or better the 703's bass response; 4.) Cost less!! ($2,000 - $3,000 range)??? I would like to hear from previous B&W users - preferably those who have replaced their 703's with speakers that offer a less fatiguing (i.e.: bright/harsh) sound.
Thanks,
Ben
Thanks,
Ben