I had a pair of Sophias and then WP7's, and have heard the 8's at Brooks Berdan here in SoCal. I agree with Grant's assessment of the difference in sound. To my ears, the Sophias have better driver coherence, the images are more robust, and they aren't quite as lean-sounding as the WP7. The WP7 clearly had more midrange and treble detail, were more dynamic, and the bass was better in every way. The WP8 I heard being driven by VTL tube amps sounded as though the WP7 had been taken toward the Sophia with more coherence, more robust sound, but with a tighter and more extended bass, and a less aggressive treble. If the WP7 has an achilles heel, it is aggressive treble. BTW, I heard Sophia 2's being driven by an inexpensive VTL amp, and IMO, the best sound I have ever heard from a Wilson speaker, including Maxx 2's and Alexandria 2's. You might want to seek these out also, as well as some Maxx 2's that are going for a pretty good price these days. Overall, if you like WP7's I cannot imagine how you wouldn't like the refinement found in the WP8. Whether it is worth the price upgrade is the question.
WP7 to 8? Worth the move?
I have loved my WattPuppy7's since 2003, more now than ever. Years have rolled by and now 2 models later I am considering a move to the 8. It's not possible for me to hear them around here so I am trying to get some input on how much of an impact this would have. I could wait a few years for some Sasha's to hit the used market but mine will be worth less so I'm also looking at financial considerations. Dollar wise, a move from 7 to 8 seems logical in the current market which also could help a future step to Sasha but sonically would this be worth it? I have also heard comments that the 7 is, overall, a better!?I know many of you have compared and moved from 7 to 8 and even to Sash so I'm hoping you can help me gain a little clarity here.