need advise on speaker buying

That's a mixed bag of good and bad advice. ALWAYS buy your speakers FIRST, and it ALWAYS matters when building a system from start to finish. Yes, the best thing would be to buy everything at once, but that almost never happens (we have *1* customer who bought everything at once; people almost always do it in steps, usually in the form of upgrades). Everything will revolve around your spkr purchase, especially your amplifier/s. Buy the amp before the speakers and you might find out the amp doesn't have enough power for the speakers you decide on (among other things). Speakers first (cables last).

As far as B&W N802 vs N801, I would take the N802 between the two. B&W's have problems with realistic bottom end, especially on the 801s, and especially if there are room problems (too small, too close to a wall) and even more so if your amp is lacking in power. N802s multiple smaller bass drivers do a better job than the large bass driver in the N801. I have owned B&W (several 801s, 802, 808, and 800), and now I own Dunlavy (Aletha & SC-IV/A). Regardless of your speaker choice, make sure you have an idea of what your complete system will be before purchasing.

It sounds like you are getting some good information. Speakers first is best, but it seems you have passed that point. As for what sounds best, that is always determined by what your listening taste are. I might suggest if you can get to Philadelphia, Pa, go to Soundex. That is one of the best exhibits for high-end audio I have visited, nationwide. They have lots of top end choices for many top end lines, all under one roof. You just move from one listening room to the next. The education is worth the trip! Which one? The Dunlavy line is great. The IVa’s are an exceptional value, especially if you can find them used. I would also suggest the Dynaudio Line; I like the 5’s or 3’s. If you can find them used, Duntechs are great too. There are no North American Dealers, just go direct. Duntech will sell you new drivers at a very reasonable price so you can purchase an older pair & update them yourself with new drivers. The Prince or Sovereign 2000’s are good considerations. I think any of these lines are among the very best in accurate sound reproduction. I have owned Vandersteen Model IV’s, Wilson Watt Puppies, Magnapans, Martin Logan’s, Beverage Model V’s, all of which have a common sound characterizes. My preferences are with Dunlavy, Dynaudio or Duntech, all of which are excellent choices. I currently am using the Duntech Sovereign 2000’s. My first choice, in any price range! Good Luck

Your in luck. The Dealer you should be using in N.J. is John Rutan at The Audio Connection. They are in Verona and his number is 973-239-1799. He knows his stuff, carries great brands and is HONEST. I have dealt with him for years. Good Luck.

Having owned (in order), the Thiel 2.3, Meadowlark HotRods, B&W Nautilus 802's, Dunlavy V's and now the Pipedreams model 15, my recommendation is the Dunlavy SCIVA's which retail for around 8K (less than the B&W). Note the other recommendations also include Dunlavy. The previous recommendation regarding the Princess is no surprise either as the Princess and the Dunlavy products are the result of John Dunlavy's work. Within your price range, you can not go wrong with the Dunalvy product.