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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

Showing 9 responses by joey_v

joey_v
644 posts
 
I have the same speakers 802d3, I also had the 800d3 in the same room.

the 800d3 absolutely did not need a sub.

the 802d3 “might” need a sub depending on size of room.
joey_v
644 posts
 
You can read other people’s theories on the 802d3 or listen to one mans actual in-depth experience.

if you are questioning the need for a sub with the 802d3, get the 800d3.

the price delta is similar to 2 good subs.  And you won’t have to worry about integration.

plus you get a cleaner midrange with less distortion.
joey_v
644 posts
 
@brycethomason

you do know that spending extra on the sub will not yield you a cleaner midrange on the 802d3, right?

if you’re this concerned get the 800d3
joey_v
644 posts
 
You’ll be sufficient w the xa60.8.

your main issue remains regarding the bass, yet you have not addressed my previous responses.  If you were that worried, you would be better off w the 800 than the 802 plus subs.


joey_v
644 posts
 
I believe your concern about subwoofer in addition to the 802D3 is unwarranted.  You will be a-ok.  Just be aware that the 802D3 bass is clean and quick.  I had the 802D2 in my room and the bass was rudimentary by comparison.  

Also, I own the Olympica 3 and the bass is also lumbering by comparison. 

I believe the 802D3 bass is similar to those that you get out of a comparable Magico.  Quick, fast, textured.  
joey_v
644 posts
 
Bryce
@brycethompsonYou have a very nice room, I see a lot of DWR pieces including the Eames chair and I believe that couch.  We have similar couch/sectional in my game room.  I've been wanting the Eames as my listening chair but I feel like it's just 3 inches too short. 

Anyway, I see the room, you will not need a sub with the 802D3 in the room.  And yes, the 800D3 would be too much for the space. 

I think you will be fine, and the XA60.8 is fine. 

I run the 802D3 with a Boulder 2060 600w amplifier, class A.  And yes, it is a superb piece of art.  

You will be fine.  
joey_v
644 posts
 
System is pretty good at this time, still a few bits and pieces and the room to complete with regards to acoustic treatments up front. 

The Boulder 2060 is superb.  But so is the source being Emm Labs Dac2x + TSDx transport. 


The cabling is fantastic, I run Audioquest Wel Signature speaker wire with Wel Signature power cords and about to have AQ complete my 3 sets of AQ Wind XLR interconnects. 

I used to run a PS Audio P5, but after a little bit of testing, I found it stifled the sound.  I am now trying out a Torus RM15 next week.  


Good luck with your system, I am sure you will enjoy it.  Keep us posted. 
joey_v
644 posts
 
So when’s the speaker coming Bryce?
joey_v
644 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.
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