For B&Wers: How would 803 D2’s compare to Nautilus 802’s?

The Nautilus 802 is very old. From 2001ish if I am not mistaken. I would not trade a new speaker for an older on in the same brand. the 802D2 would be worth having.

I can’t help directly but can tell you what I heard before. I have heard the 803D2 and 802D2 in the same room system back to back. Large room with speaker well from the front all (8+ feet) on Classe’ gear. The most noticeable difference to me was the mid range. The 802D2 is more open and natural with less box coloration. I know you are thinking the 803 does not sound boxy… well next to the 802 is does.
As for the bass it was not so much about deeper or louder but the texture and tone was better on the 802D2. I am sure they can play louder but more bass I am not sure.



-I feel that new B&W is brighter than the older B&Ws.

-the 802D2 had a lot more bass to my ear and memory than the 803d3.
-I would just add subs, even the 802D2 would benefit from subs. All systems do…
if you add subs don’t over look a highpass either in the preamp or external. Before subs I was always chasing bigger and better speakers and with subs I am happy with most good speakers now.
-take a look a used Wilson audios. As a whole the brand has very enjoyable bass. A pair of used Sabrina would do the trick.

Part two…


YouTube I know, I know… anyway take a listen. 

B&W 804D2 vs Wilson Audio Sabrina. 

https://youtu.be/czrzC2kMf48



https://youtu.be/Z0kia8GO6CA

@james633 Thanks for your feedback. What you say about the 802 D2’s is what I was thinking I could experience from the Nautilus 802’s but guess the technology advanced that much with the diamond series? Have been avoiding the sub route but open to suggestions. Would one sub do the trick or need two? 

One sub would work but it is a pain. I have two and had both break (failed volume pots) so I had one sub for a few months as I rotated them out for repair.



After a few days of messing around I got it to sound good in the prime seat with one sub but I was always messing with the volume. The dips and peaks were bigger in my room with one sub so 30hz would be too loud and 60hz would be too soft. So song to song seemed off sometimes.



After a month or two I had two working subs again. Dropped them down and everything fell into place. More balanced and just seemed right.


You could always start with one and add another later. I am sure you could fine somewhere with a 60 day trial. Music direct ,Crutchfield, SVS has home trials too and I am sure a bunch of brands do these days.

Need to make a decision soon about moving on from my 803 D2’s for the older Nautilus 802’s. Any additional feedback? Thx.