B&W 802 D2 vs 802 D3 showdown.

analogmusic posted:

thanks for nice reports which will motivate many to go hear the new D3.

When I heard them, they were driven off classe amps, and although I used my Hugo as a source, it wasn't quite the same result as I hear when Naim amps are driving B&W Speakers - which is expected, but the differences in presentation and musicality were too large to ignore.

Difficult to make a judgement call without the same amp that one uses at home especially at this level of expenditure.

I think Steve J once made a very valid comment about my test of KDS/1 vs Hugo - the same interconnects were not used on both (the KDS/1 had a 1000 GBP Vertere interconnect -and the Hugo did not) and now I realize that my test was worthless, so I think with an amp which is not Naim, not sure if any evaluation of the B&W is really feasible, possible or accurate.

 

As said above the system, though lacking compared to our 500 systems, was adequate to demonstrate the differences in presentation between the 2 speakers and would lead to further listening of the D3s with a Naim system. The dealer who gave us the demo on Friday was the only dealer I could find locally who had a pair of D2s for comparison. Further dealer/home demos will be arranged.

of course

I didn't find the classe amps driving B&W 805D3, and 803D4 to be an outcome that I was used to and much of the Naim/B&W sound that I do love actually comes more from the Naim than the B&W.

based on what I heard, I would rather put the money on upgrading the NAP 500 to NAP 500 DR...

just a suggestion... the DR amps are fantastic and your 802D2 speakers are already very, very capable...

The 500 will probably be DR'd but not until I've heard the effect this upgrade has on the amp. I've heard one or two negative comments, in addition to many positive ones, about the 500DR so I want to listen before committing. Just because it's Naim doesn't mean it's right in my system. With this in mind I'm currently re-evaluating another supposed Naim upgrade that, in retrospect, isn't. More to follow.

With regard to the 802 D3 I want to fully evaluate them before making a decision, and there are other speakers that need consideration. This will definitely be my final speaker purchase as I'm counting down to retirement.

Steve how long before you retire? Are you still planning to go back to Devon, if so are you not concerned about different room acoustics effecting whatever speakers you decide on, before a move.

Graham.

I am with Steve on the 500DR upgrade as whilst i have it planned along with a service I shall not do it untiIl I have had a comparative dem as I also have heard some -ve comments on the 500DR upgrade.

As for the 802D3's then if, a big if as I remain very happy with what I have,  I were to change speakers then I would do a protracted home dem in my system... it is the only way for me.

Richard

FangfossFlyer posted:

I am with Steve on the 500DR upgrade as whilst i have it planned along with a service I shall not do it untiIl I have had a comparative dem as I also have heard some -ve comments on the 500DR upgrade.

As for the 802D3's then if, a big if as I remain very happy with what I have,  I were to change speakers then I would do a protracted home dem in my system... it is the only way for me.

Richard

i would be very interested to hear your assessment of the 500 vs 500DR dem when you have done it. its on my radar too. i know i have to do this myself in the context of my system -- but it would still be interesting to hear various viewpoints...

enjoy

ken

Ken,

I am not sure my dealer has a 500DR but I guess he can loan one from Naim and then I could do a shop/home comparison agianst my 500.

I am really cautious these days as I am really very happy with my system and do not want to upset the synergy and glorious music also I tend not to be an early adopter.

Richard

Quad 33 posted:

Steve how long before you retire? Are you still planning to go back to Devon, if so are you not concerned about different room acoustics effecting whatever speakers you decide on, before a move.

Graham.

Less than two years now. I wasn't going to bother looking at the D3s until I buy the new house in Devon (we have an offer in on a house ATM which has good scope for an excellent listening room) but I felt I needed to hear a comparison between the D2s and D3s, hence the demo. I'm not in a hurry and will probably wait until we have the/a house sorted. I'm intending to have a dedicated room with full room treatment.

sounds ike a good strategy Richard... look forward to your (and Steve's) report when you have done the assessment...

enjoy

ken

Excellent reports Steve and Richard. Watching this space with interest.

John.