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Waiting on 802D3 to arrive -- Will I need a sub?

It's a rainy gray Sunday afternoon here in Atlanta today. I probably have better things to do but I've spent hours reading and researching trying to ascertain if I will need a subwoofer(s) once my B&W 802D3 arrive here in another week or so.

I can't decide and so I've decided to try posting here and crowdsource an answer, ha ha!

My goal is to create a system that will allow me to listen to 2-channel music for hours on end without fatigue.  The room is my living room and is a quasi open floorplan. It is around 24 feet long by 18 feet wide.  There are 10ft ceilings with an open stairwell back behind the seating position and an opening to my dining room that adds another 400 square feet or so of floor space.

Previously I've had B&W 804D2 towers with two B&W ASWCM10 powered subs.  I've sold the towers and the subs and am waiting on 802D3 to arrive as mentioned above.  The 804D2 absolutely had to have the subs.  The bass just wasn't there without them unless I really cranked the volume up.

So as I sit here I'm wondering if I made a mistake in selling my subs already.  With the 802's will I miss them or will those guys have me covered for 2 channel listening?

If it's likely that I will still need a sub (or 2) what do you guys think would be a good match to the 802D3?

Here is the rest of my equipment in case its helpful in offering an opinion:

Preamp:

·     PS Audio BHK Signature Preamplifier

Amplifiers:

·     Qty. 2: PassLabs XA60.8 Monoblocks

Inputs:

·     PS Audio DirectStream Junior (DAC)

·     VPI Traveler 2

·     Audio Technica AT33EV Phonograph Cartridge

·     Apple TV 4K 

Power:

·     Qty. 2: PS Audio P5 Power Plant

 Other:

·     Pro-Ject Tube Box S Phono PreAmplifier

 Speakers:

·     Bowers-Wilkins 802D3


Thanks!
Bryce
brycethomason
joey_v
663 posts
 
Impressive set up, symmetric and beautiful.  The 802d3 is the jewel.

i told you no subs required once I saw the room, I was right.

once all settles, only a couple things left to play with.

i would suggest speaker wire change, interconnect change, and perhaps try something different than the P5.
auxinput
2,920 posts
 
I wish I had those 803D3's to listen to!
brycethomason OP
18 posts
 
@Auxinput --> if you are ever in Atlanta let me know and you can stop by and have a listen, but they are actually 802's :)
mike1000
71 posts
 
Updates? What was the OPs conclusion?
dhl93449
455 posts
 
The bass response of an 802 is considerably better than an 804, no question. But whether you still might need a sub is another question. I have 803ds and use a HSU sub because I have the vent ports on my 803ds plugged to tighten the bass image, and the sub is set up for below 40 Hz and to supplement certain bass lean program material. My room is 30 ft by 30 ft and I have no problem filling this room.

Look, you can always set up your new 802s without a sub and see if you like the sound. If you are a fanatic for 20 Hz organ notes or movie sound effects to shake you room, you may end up with a sub.
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