8-10k budget suggestions please


Hey guys, 

been out of the game about 10 years, got a new wife, new house, and plugged in my old B&W 804's.  Connected them to a Denon receiver expecting to want to do surround sound.......But forget it!  I really want to maximize my 804's for 2 channel listening.

My room is 15ft long by 13 by 9.  not very big but I need amplification and streaming capabilites.  Will add TT later as I do have vinyl.  Room tx is on it's way so let's just assume it's already done.

 

Thanks for all your help!

128x128asmithkash

Mesch, yes they are!  I don't think I will need a sub either.  Plenty of bottom end on those suckers in that room.  

Why such hate for B&W from some.  Too bright for many correct?  I did hear some Harbeth speakers on a nice rig about 3 years ago that sounded awesome!  

My first foray into high end audio had me originally lusting after a pair of B&W, they were aesthetically a good looking product with a great pedigree...it was the house monitor at Abby Road Studios, mind you. I was able to audition several models in my home paired with a McIntosh MC300, then with a borrowed Parasound. I felt every one I listened to with intent to purchase were immediately fatiguing to listen to given their very bright, in your face(in a bad way), presentation. My first pair of high(er) end speakers ended up being a pair of PSB Stratus Gold's for less than I was willing to pay for the B&W, and I was in audio nirvana...until that itch needed another scratch.

I still believe that whatever gear you decide on, the 804's will be your weak link. There are a pair of PSB Synchrony 1's on this site that would be an excellent foundation to begin your hunt for YOUR audio nirvana.

 

 

@laaudionut 

I think you should give listen to the modern-day B&W diamond series. When auditioning, I compared 802D3 to Paradigm and Kef Reference. The B&Ws were the warmest of all. I did not find the tweeter bright at all. The Paradigms were like nails on a chalkboard! 

Also, I see you don't care too much for McIntosh. I just purchased a C2700 tube preamp and MC611s. The system is not broken in yet, but it has provided me with some of the most realistic vocals I have ever heard. The MAC integrated would provide great synergy with B&W and a pretty nice DAC (upgradable) and future phono capabilities, as the OP wishes. The icing on the cake would be HDMI (ARC) for hookup to the tv!