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B&W 803D - Best amplifiers to drive them

Hi!

I actually have a few questions and I would really appreciate your wisdom on them:
1) 803D versus 802D - other than prize and size, is there is significant SQ difference, or if under budget constraints one settle for the 803D as they are 'almost' there?
2) Used 803D, how does one test a 2nd hand used speaker? Is there any way one can tell other than listening (auditioning) and visual inspection? Are there any key look outs?
3) The main question - which amplifiers drive the 803D the best? the rating says 50-500 watts, but that is a huge range at 8 ohms!!!!

Please do let me know
Thank you.
K
kelpie
nvp
317 posts
 
While I agree that McIntosh, Musical Fidelity and Pass Labs are good choices, like
Saackesc, I recommend Accuphase amps for B&W speakers from the 800 series.
Accuphase is IMO a significant step up from the brands mentioned above, but it
is also more expensive.

Regarding the 803D vs. 802D issue, 802D is without a doubt the superior
speaker. If you have the space for the 802D and can afford it go for it. Buying
the cheaper model is never cheaper in the long run.
wadeh911
1 posts
 
Power mine with classe ca-5300 and very pleased.
Ag insider logo xs@2x
summer
3 posts
 
Accuphase, the last amp you will need for your life!  
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 

kelpie


The B&W803 D’s are a hard speaker in the bass for an amp, and need one that is comfortable drive 3ohms for most of the bass and the even worse below 100hz where there is also a massive -65’ of -phase angle as well.
Because they are 91db efficient means they don’t need many watts into 8ohms, >100w will do. But that should double into 4ohms (200w) and almost double again into 2ohms (>350w)
https://www.stereophile.com/images/616BW802fig1.jpg

And the B&W 802D is just as amp demanding also

Cheers George
westcoastaudiophile
233 posts
 
06-23-2020 8:35pmAccuphase, the last amp you will need for your life!  

YEP
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