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@@Haurath Paradigm does not respond to our or viewer requests to get us gear for review. Actually they pretend they don't know who we are so we'll just have to take your word on it. LOL.
Nice review but is the credit card smoking? And do you have a new set of speakers? And thanks for the idea of a matte finish, I’m building a set of bookshelf speakers but was waffleling on finish. 👍
I really appreciate Kristi pushing the comparisons! It’s hard to get a feel for the “levels” of products. Andrew comment of “how do you compare a car to a rocketship” makes total sense, but that context comes out with these questions, and it’s super valuable!! Thank you both!!
Yeah I think it's very important to compare a Camry to a Lexus. One is nicer, one affords you other things and still a very good experience, specially old Lexus to new Camry.
@@KristiWright The new B&W 805 D4 would been a dream well well i for live quite happy with my M Audio Silver 300 6 G some more years i have the center C 350 all in white And Marantz sr 7012 for the 2 fronts i have the Xtz edge A 2 300 really happy with theXtz☺☺😎😎
I've owned my 805 D4 for two weeks, and they are just starting to impress and come on to a sound I'm enjoying immensely. At first, I found the bass too much and boomy, now they are sounding just right in the bass. The diamond tweeter is just so natural.
Surprisingly, I hear no difference in the sound of my 805 D4’s I bought new in April 2023 compared to right now. They were magnificent right out of the box and equally magnificent now. Conversely, the Martin-Logan CLS electrostatic speakers (Andrew has a video on these) took a freaking year to break in and were still improving when I sold them. BTW, the CLS were shrill and without bass for weeks & weeks when they were new.
I was laughing so hard when andrew had his internal struggle with the 805d4 vs b&O 28s, I am baised as B&O 28s owner, the greatest asspect of those speakers for me is that I have let go of my desire for new components, I have very little self control so it kinda nice to see that even though its my "settle down" hifi setup its still in the same category as the best of the best.
I really wish Andrew spoke a little bit about the vs formation duo, given how glowing he was about them in his review. I feel comparison is valid for the fans of the channel who listen attentively to his recommendation and overall thoughts no matter how odd ball the comparisons.
I discovered your and Kristi's channel while trying to build out my living room and computer setups. Both setups have been completed for a few weeks now, so I really don't have a "need" to keep coming back and watching your content...at least, I shouldn't if I have any respect for my wallet. Jokes aside, your production value, charisma, honesty, knowledge, and, most importantly, realistic perspective on HiFi audio and home theater keep bringing me back. I will likely never buy the B & W 805 D4s, but I sat through your entire review for whatever reason. You and Kristi need to buckle up...I have a feeling this 295k subscriber number is going to be shooting up very quickly. I understand subscriber count is no indication of content quality, but it's obvious you both are on another level. I cannot wait to watch the continued growth of your channel.
The denon a110 being your favorite amplifier pairing speaks volumes as the technics 1000 got a glowing review from yall. Several amps, rotel 1592, technics g700, musical fidelity m5 have gotten high praise from yall. When you do b the denon review can yall do a big comparison run down at the end like you did in the video?
@Andrew, I decided against the 800‘er series and went for the Dutch & Dutch 8c- active stand speakers with cardiod design and built in DSP. Would be great if you tested these, they‘re excellent.
Great review. Thank you! Would love you guys to do a review on Gershman Acousitics Studio II speakers. Small outfit from Toronto, handmade, incredible quality and sound!
I just got the McIntosh MAC7200 Stereo receiver & the B&W 805D4 gloss black speakers....I took me a life time to get them////over $20,000.00 & I am still spending...sales tax & the B&W stands. I think the sound great
Great video Andrew! I recently heard the 805D4 & the Formation Duos & to be honest my listening experience was a little different on the low end. I found the 805 to be bass heavy & boomier, while the Formation Duos lacked the extra low end boom, but had really accurate & tight bass which I was really impressed by. I connected the formation sub as well & that surely helped. I wanted to know your thoughts on what you feel about both these & how would you compare these speakers in detail, given that they share some of the same components, but have a huge price difference. What are your thoughts on pairing the Mcintosh MA252 with the 805D4? Can I connect an external subwoofer (not the Formation Bass) wired to the Formation Audio device? (To pair with formation duos)
One thing I’m very sure of, and if money were no object, and based on all your speaker reviews, and with all the choices possible at the high-end level of audio, I still wouldn’t know where to start 😂
As a B&W lover, I absolutely loved this review/video. And once again I'm re-invigorated to make it my goal to get my hands on a set of 805s. I may not end up with the D4s, but a D3 will do. Loved Kristi's comparisons this time. You Know she IS right with her somewhat outrageous comparisons. All those speakers are in the back of our minds, wondering which would come up on top. Good to know 805's did every time. Here is one setup to think about. This would be my no-cost-an-object setup. The 805s ($8500) + McIntosh MA1200 ($15000) + MCD 1200 ($12000) [$375000 + Tax] ... Yes, it's a downpayment for a house in most parts of the US, even in this root canal of an economy. But I think it would fit in the category of an "End-Game" system. Your Thoughts...if you care. Anyways...LOVE the channel! Cheers
I do have 805 D3’s with a Luxman L-590 AxII Class A integrated amplifier. Wonderful combination. Save a few bucks and divert it to a PAIR of sealed subs. That makes the biggest difference.
Love to hear a review and a comparison of the Fyne Audio F700 and the B&W 805 D4. By the way been following you and Kristi since the beginning, a big Klipsch fan myself but diversifying a second system. Darren, Texarkana Texas.
More JBLs! For us JBL freaks. I have a couple, the 4429 and a vintage 4311. I also have the original B&W 805 Nautilus, it's nice, but the JBLs are... exciting!
Someday my budget may allow. Until then my 2007 B&W 604 series 3 (last year made in England) will remain my main speakers in my two channel set up…. Great review!! 🎉🎉😊😊
Hi. Thanks for this complete as well as entertaining review. Have you considered doing a review of the Sonus Faber Sonetto iii speakers? ...Just something for your consideration.
This is a speaker on my shortlist and I appreciate your review. I thought the format was fun and the way that you went back-and-forth asking one other questions. I am curious about the different finishes available and I would love to see some crazy colors like bright orange.
Andrew, new subscriber here on your channel, love your reviews. I purchased the QA Concept 500's, not primarily from your review as Ive had the 3030i bookshelfs and the Concept 40's, but your review solidified my purchase of the Concept 500's. My question to you would be, could you do a review of your Top Ten all time favorite speakers (no cost associated). Obviously, the more expensive speakers are going to make the list, but it would be interesting to get your thoughts on the no-cost option (within reason of course) on what you think are the best speakers out there, 1 through 10.
This was one of my favorite episodes! Andrew you can tell these Bowers struck a chord with you. You had an undeniable grin almost the entire time! It was fun watching & all of the comparisons were informative. As an owner of 802D3s I admit I’m fond of the brand. Certainly iconic but at the end of the day they have to sound great. And they do. Fantastic episode! ❤
Hi Andrew another amazing review from you, by any chance are you planning to review kef reference 1 meta, can you compare it with 805 d4 and utopia if you ever review it? May be next year if not this one.
I didn't google US prices, but in Europe Bowers & Wilkins 805 D4 costs almost 9k, Focal Kanta1 5k. and Focal Sopra1 7.5k. So maybe Focal Sopra 1 review someday? The Kanta is simply not a competitor to the 805 D5 in my opinion, but after your review I would really like to hear how these B&W sound. 😉
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Andrew..much like the video on the audiophile ladder of climbing the of ever more expensive gear ( I was at the Toronto Audiofest last weekend..listening to gear that cost more than the house I grew up in) there’s always next level or another improved model…BUT if these are your End Games speakers ..then congrats 🍾
just got a pair of B&W 705 S-2 speakers -- (looking at them for awhile - and since new "S-3" is out I got for good price) Very detailed sound. "Tight" bass (if not tons of it) Pretty good for price I paid. I have Polk LSiM 703s - which for price I got them for Also Good. Are the B&Ws better than the Polks on digital tracks at higher volume? Yes - they are! But on my older (I grew up in 1960s) "analog" stuff the difference is not that much - the Polks are fine with that stuff. I like the modern (and touch strange) look of the B&Ws too. Something "different" with the "tweeter on top" thing. I am now to point where it would take a lot of $$ to make appreciable difference.
Dynaudio Confidence is my choice over B&W ( and any other speaker I have had / listent to). Had the C1 mk 2 for years and are currently saving up to the confidence 20
Just bought a well priced pair of Ex Demo pair of C20, did listen to the B&W. The B&W sound is not for me; blown away by the C20, not cheap but still feel good value.
Now that 20222 is coming to an end and you two have experienced more products, can we expect to see some sort of update of what stack you and Kristi would purchase at the $1000, $2500 and maybe $4k price points? I'm curious what amps would be chosen in those price points....
Thanks! andrew, I have been an "audiophile," or as I call it, a music lover, since I was in college back in 2003. In 2016, we built our dream home with a theater/media room and custom built in wall rack to show off my McIntosh equipment that I purchased for the room and brought my B&W Nautilus 802's up front, HTM1 Center, N804's sides, N805's rears, and 4 B&W Cinema 7's in the ceiling for Atmos channels. Running the theater: McIntosh MX122 McIntosh C2500 preamp McIntosh MC452 on fronts McIntosh MC207 on 7 other channels McIntosh MC152 on the remaining two One day coming home from work in 2018, I decided on a whim to stop by my dealer and purchase the new B&W 802 D3's and matching center because why not? But really, I had never owned anything but B&W and loved them.. WELP........... lived with the D3's for 4 years and over that time, I found myself NOT listening to music (2 channel) almost never. This hit me like a brick all because from 2002 to 2018, I listened to 2 channel for about 2-4 hours a day/night with a few glasses of bourbon. I made an real effort to find out why and it was obvious that I DESPISED the 802 D3''s' I didn't want to believe it was the speaker, so I first sold the MX122 and replaced with Anthem AVM 70 and traded Mac C2500 in and bought the C2700. It still sounded horrid, I dragged my Focal Aria 926's to the theater and replaced the 802s. It was a much more enjoyable experience. I made the decision right there to rid myself of the 802 D3's. While that was happening, I was pretty disappointed in the DAC in the new McIntosh C2700 tube preamp considering it was nearly 9000 dollars. The final straw was when I pulled my Meridian Prime Headphone Amp/Dac and Power Supply and streamed Tidal though it and it made the 2700 sound like a Walmart Kenwood car stereo. I may have made a crazy stupid decision.....I sold/traded every single piece of equipment expect my MC452. I live in Alabama, so it's hard to audition great speakers. I took a blind chance based on your review and my affinity for other Focal's and purchased a pair of Focal Diablo Utopia Colour Evo speakers. THey are being driven by the MC452 and my source. So, I am extremely disappointed in the Diablo's and have been getting bullied by every Focal dealer over in Georgia telling me that McIntosh is garbage and I need to get new electronics and sources. I am so damn lost hrew and need help/advice. Luxman 509 is an integrated that one dealer is trying to shove down my throat, but I really want to hear the Focal's on the Rotel Diamond you reviewed as well as the Michi X3 and X5. The Diablo's are so damn great with highs, but the mids are super disappointing. I am sorry for the book, but I am wondering around the audio industry forrest. 🤢
It sounds like you've had just about every high-end offering under the sun. Not sure why or what has caused you to be unhappy for of all the speakers and equipment you listed, if happiness didn't rest in one or more of the combos I think the issue may rest less with the gear and more with the setup and/or room. There is nothing "wrong" with B&W, Focal, McIntosh etc. Sure you can prefer one over another, but wrong, I don't personally think so. SO, is your room treated? Before going to B&W what speakers did you have? Because whatever it was, moving to B&W then Focal at a minimum tells me you moved to less rolled-off speakers on the top end, which may be the culprit to a degree. But at the same time you also are saying you like the top end of the Focals, so 🤷♂️. Regardless, you don't need to talk to dealers right now, you. need to sit with your system and honestly determine sonically what it is you like and don't like. Then ask yourself how many of those things can be addressed with proper setup/treatments before spending another dime on gear because it's not the gear I'm afraid.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Room is treated. We built the theater from scratch with a dealer. Soy 675es projector. I have always had B&W. In fact, I absolutely LOVE the old B&W sound. So much, that I came across a pair of CDM1SE's on FB for 300 (pair) and I snatched them up to use in my office. I pulled my pair of SVS SB12-Plus subs out of storage and used the hi pass on them in conjunction with the B&W........The sound gave me nostalgia goosebumps and listened for hours. Back to your question......I have owned B&W speakers from 1999-2022. In 2017, I purchased my first non B&W speakers....a 9 channel Aria setup for our living room. I came to where I am now in a very non tradtional way ha. In 2002, I had a good summer and a scholarship check arrived (which my parents were unaware of) and I did what any 22 year old living I a fraternity house would do, I traded them in for Nautilus 804’s and bought a McIntosh MC162. That last year in a 12x12 room was interesting. I started grad school in 2003 and when the scholarship arrived again, I sold the 804’s and bought some 803’s, the HTM1, and another MC162. The following year and my last as a student, I cashed the check, sold the 162’s , traded the 803’s , sold the Marantz and enjoyed N802’s, a MC352, a MC2255, and a Meridian 561M. I was in my own apartment and it sounded damn good. I kept those 802’s and HTM1 until 2019, when I moved to the 802 D3. I’ve tried different equipment, room treatments, room correction, etc, but I just love them like I used to. I think they are a little too forward and analytical for me now. I listened to as many speakers in the 15-20k range as I could, and fell head over heels for the Focal Sopra 2. Selling the 802’s is really hard and the few dealers who still take trades, we’re offering 8-10k for them. I ended up finding a Focal dealer who has a client that wanted the 802’s down to the color. So, he offered me a brand new pair of Utopia Diablo s for my 802’s and HTM1 D3. I pulled the trigger. I've moed them around, changed rooms, borrowed equipment, from dealers and I just cant fall in love with them. I can still return for credit and was going to consider Meridian, Sonus Faber,Legacy and Magico A5. Every delaer tells me to get rid of all the Mcintosh, it's not worth the money I know Meridian is a weird choice, but back at our old house I had a Meridian 861 processor and Mac amps running the Nautilus 802's and it still the best set up I have heard to this day
@@AuburnM5 maybe you should organize a blind auditioning at your home. Meaning, get some of your friends to hook-up different speakers under the same setup, without telling you which brand you're listening every time. Ignore the logo's/brand. Just check what you truly like. And also what mood you're in that particular day. Seems like you've already spent quite a crazy amount of $ and I think you should have reached the most in a home-setup. Also check John Darko's channel ;)
@@AuburnM5 why you just don’t go back to the pre B&W Continuum Speakers like the 800 D2? You are not alone in not liking the new B&W sound. Electronic wise I personally would suggest Linn. Goes well with B&W in my opinion. Get a Linn Selekt with Katalyst (or even organik if you can afford it) and buy 2 Klimax Solo power amps. Pair this with something like the 802 D2 and you will have an awesome set up that probably produces the sound you like.
I have some B&W 703’s. You know…listening to reviews on subjective things like speakers is amusing to me. Don’t get me wrong…I love listening to this stuff, but it seems self-indulgent. Please keep it up. Love your reviews.
Looks : If you compare with Focal Kanta for looks, yes then the B&W might be better looking, but if you compare with a Focal Sopra, the Sopra wins hands down. (I don't like that external tweeter of the B&W series and I've seen it breaks off very easiliy). Sound : The B&W diamond tweeter is too shouty for me, the Beryllium tweeters of Focal (Kanta, Sopra and Utopia) sound more smooth. Price : The Focal Kanta is cheaper here in Europe then the B&W 805D4, the Sopra 1 is slightly more expensive. So I think a comparison with the Sopra would have been more fair. I heard the 805D4, I heard the Sopra, and went home with Sopra and never regretted it.
I very much agree with your remarks about the shoutiness. Ultimately it came down between Dynaudio Heritage Special and Sopra no1 for me. Both are very impressive but in different areas. I pulled the trigger on the Dynaudios, as their top end was more to my taste and their tonality couldn't be matched. Sopra's airiness was really impressive, Sopra no2 especially more so.
Ok, now THIS is interesting. I own the Kanta N°1 and have heard the B&W 60something and 804D4 at a show (and the Kanta N°1 at the same show). The 804s were connected to a Michi X5, and I was sitting up front a bit off axis, with the right speaker pointing at me. Both B&W came across as shrill, and at (many?) times, painful (the music selection did not help too much, as Roxanne... really?). The Kantas are much more relaxed than that at home, but also at the demo (different room, NAD Unity Nova and another time 252s I think?). (Btw. I wasn't the only one thinking the 804 D4s were painfully bright... I wonder what happened). You are dead on with the boosted bass on the Focal, which is a shame. And the B&W look a million bucks, while the Kantas look cheap (I'd say the B&W look more expensive than the Sopra. By quite a bit. If you look up close). Then again, Focal produces in France, and the French are not exactly known for being the most precise workers in the world... Besides wavy paint there's a bubble on the front of mine, resulting in a black dot right underneath the tweater (my speakers are glossy blue). A friends Kanta N°2 even has the glass plate glued on at an angle... Your description makes me want to give the 805 D4 another chance... but first up, new amp. In any case, I'm really excited about the Focal review. :)
Hard to say what could have played a role in your experience. Without listening to the speakers in the same environment with the same associated equipment, I'm not sure it's a fair evaluation. Thanks so much for tuning in.
Hi both. I love your review and enthusiasm for this speaker. Kristi the unrealistic comparison is actually a fabulous idea, because that's what people will think about so please feel free to repeat with any other review, you have my support. I also agree with you both about integrating and living with the B&W speaker in a domestic environment is far easier and would keep all family members happy, especially in the UK and Europe where houses/rooms are smaller. Finally I have a pair of 702 S2 speakers which give some 80% of the equivalent 800 series at a fraction of the cost, however, having recently auditioned the 800 D4 as well as the KEF Blade Meta and new PS Audio speakers, I seriously want the 800 D4s. Best speaker that I've heard that will fit in my listening space, no question. Please keep up the great work.
Can of worms alert ... Last speakers you'll ever own? Gird your loins for all of the outraged audiophiles who are about to tell you how vastly superior their "insert speaker brand here" speakers are ... It's just the nature of the audiophile beast.
B&W 805 D4 or Formation Duo or B&O Beolab 28 - all down to how much time to find the "right" amp for the passive speakers. B&W formation Duo rule themselves out as they can not form part of a surround sound system. With the B&O a mix and match of 28. 20 and 18 with their sub and centre speaker all via WiSA. No bargain choices and once set up without an A/B comparison you are just left to enjoy the sound they make.
The comparison that REALLY needs to be made here is between the 805 D4 and the KEF Reference 1 Meta. They are the exact same price and both can be bought from the same retailer.
@Andrew Robinson any chance of this review ahead? I would love to hear your take on these two since they directly compete against each other (basically the KEF are made to order by hand) but they cost the same, and are both supposed to be spectacular.
Got me to peruse the B&W website. Love the matchups Kristi asked about. Looking forward to just enjoying music with my present system. Haven't caught the change bug yet. Interested in open baffle speakers though.
I agree. Similar size, similar price, similar companies - subtly different design philosophy. One or other of those two may well be my end game speakers. But which one? I have heard them both - but in very differing circumstances. I would love to see someone (Andrew!) audition them side by side.
Thank you for the review! For the same price if you have a chance please review the Marten Oscar Duos! It would be nice to compare them against B&Ws and Focal's
I’ve been waiting for this one for a while. I really want to switch back to bookshelves because of space constraints, and since I am a B&W *itch this is the one for me. Totally different finish, rosewood would be the one. So this is perfect. Thank you! Once I sell enough extended warranties, I’ll definitely get a pair! lol But awesome video guys again! Especially the bush moment. I do want you guys to get the Beolab 90s. You have no idea. Wishing you all a great day!
I would love to test the 90s. Ever since we watched a video of Alicia Keys new house tour with them, I've wanted them. I think they would look crazy cool in our house.
They state 8200 watts per speaker. How many outlets do you need? Even 20A at 2,400, you need 4 dedicated outlets per speaker, right? How do you protect against a surge?
@@techsamurai11 I’m lost on this one. What are we talking about? If you’re referring to the BeoLab 90, then you get a dedicated 40/50amp circuit like your electric stove has. One is plenty enough.
I will only buy studio reference speakers for music listening in the future. The are very accurate and a lot cheaper than many HIFI snake oil speakers, not all but many are. ME Geithain RL944 is the one I want to buy one day.
Watch the whole video before posting y’all! Literally answered ALL my comparisons! I would recommend anyone buying these to pair them with a Rel Sub over high level
@@andrewrobinsonreviews B&W Formation Duo for connect to MacBook Pro 14-inch M2 Max B&W Formation Duo is most powerfull B&W ever. B&W Formation Duo is number 1 speaker in the World!
I have demo'd some B&W's at a high end store and could not have been less impressed. Their build quality was exquisite, but the sound was completely sterile and lifeless, and they were extremely inefficient. In the end, I found them to be all show, no go.
@@andreasmoller9798 For sure. Anything that isn't an anechoic measurement of a speaker, or detailing data points about a speaker is subjective. I don't begrudge anyone who likes this speaker, and to be fair I have not heard THIS speaker, just other B&W's of this and higher price range and have always been extremely underwhelmed for the price you pay. Aesthetically they are near works of craftsmanship, if not art.
@@dlloyd6300 i use 702 s2 and love them and they have good amount of detail, but they are not neutral, but i will buy different brand next time, i will absolutly look into perlisten r7t they seem promising, if they sound good it will be win, becouse those speakers have serious spl output
@@andreasmoller9798 I hear nothing but praise for Perlisten, both measurements and subjective. Also a beautiful speaker. Certainly not cheap but I think fair for what you get. You're lucky to be able to dabble in such equipment 👍. Arendal and Paradigm also have some lovely offerings.
@@andreasmoller9798 My personal speakers are Klipsch RF7 III's. Certainly Klipsch is devisive in the community, and they may not be the best measuring speaker but oh the output levels without breaking a sweat, and the things that true compression driver tweeter can do. I find them to have the perfect level of detail without being too bright.
I don't know why people spend so much money on B&W when they could easily get a pair of Genelec 8361, which are calibrated to be neutral, and are $10k a pair, and you don't need an amplifier. (That is the 10 inch woofer). To compete against the 805 you would get the Genelec 8351, which is 8" woofer, and is about $8k a pair. You run the calibration software on those units, and flatten it against your room, and now you have what a recording engineer has; 99% accuracy. If you want punch, the B&W 801's are incredible, esp. with 1000 watts behind them. That chest thump is a special feeling. But most home stereo equipment is highly colored, and frankly silly. Flat speakers give you what was made in the studio.
@@raymaksimavicius4902 If a speaker is within +- 3 DB (or better) from low to high frequencies, it is flat, which is the objective with a studio monitor. It thus reproduces almost exactly what the mixing engineers intended. Home stereo equipment is notorious for coloration. No speaker can "blow away" a highly accurate studio monitor. The only difference between the members of the Genelec family is how low you want to be able to reproduce. You pay a great deal more, and require a much larger cabinet volume and piston diameter if you want to get fidelity below 50 hz. The latest Genelecs have a microphone and software that allows you to compensate for your room quirks, and this is commonly used to further flatten the curve to the mixing engineer. Unless you have a specially designed and equipped room, you will have odd resonances that will throw things off. Very few home units bother to fix this issue. The B&W 801's have 16" woofers, and with 1000 watts driving, has that chest thump that is so satisfying. The whole consumer hi-fi business is mostly nonsense, with crazy fetishes like fancy cabling, and other immeasurable, expensive niceties that allow the retailers to make a lot of money from gullible people. The fact remains that the music is mixed on studio monitors from Neumann, Genelec, Focal, and others with modest piston diameters, because close-range monitors are much tighter coupled to the ear, and many times the engineers only need occasional verification with large diameter stuff for certain kinds of music. If you go to B&H or Thomann, and look up studio monitors you will find that most of the products are close range. Every engineer i've seen interviewed has a similar configuration. Maybe Vandersteen should pursue the studio monitor market. They may indeed have a wonderful product. But the monitors that exist today are awfully good, and so much better than the lousy speakers that people listen on (which are often their phones, or crappy bluetooth speakers, or car stereos). Accuracy can be measured, and many consumer products are wildly inaccurate. If the bias happens to be to your taste, fine.
Please allow me my personal opinion as an aging engineer. The eternal problem when nearfield studio monitors are compared to hi-fi or high-end speakers. Nearfield studio monitors are monitoring speakers and have no real relevance in the living room. The Genelec are excellent speakers, but actually nothing for the living room. I know the Genelec 8351 from several trade fairs. This is my own personal opinion. Therefore, there are at least two categories of loudspeakers in a proper studio. Near-field studio monitors and a pair of good hi-fi speakers. Whether these must necessarily cost several thousand dollars or even more, each studio must decide for itself. Of course, quality usually has its price. I own a pair of B&W in my living room. I grew up with Bowers & Wilkins. My very first time and experiences as a young little boy in a professional studio. There were Bowers & Wilkins speakers, what else? I also own a pair of Neumann Studio monitors next to inexpensive hi-fi speakers in a small hobby studio.
@@btsr2553 You are correct regarding near-field monitors and "a pair of good hi-fi speakers" as studio mainstays, but there are also mid-field and far-field monitors whose use is dependent upon the distance to the mixing board. I've heard many many great speakers during my 64 years as a hobbyist and enthusiast, and to me, the sound of a good pair of active studio monitors beats the sound of 95% of home speakers, including B&W. I've also compared passive speakers to their active counterparts and you can tell the difference in about 5 seconds...even when level matched. Just my opinion, of course.
Wonderful review, as always! Without sounding pessimistic, I'm not looking forward to anything as the year closes, but embracing the habit of cherishing whatever positives life throws my way, big or small. Thanks for the great content!
I like that it looks like you pulled your shirt out of the laundry basket and didn't even care to iron or hang it. You're every man's audiophile. Keep it up.
Love the comparison to other speakers. I compare cars the same way, Corolla vs my Lexus. I think I understand your style of review better. I can afford QC50, 705 and 805. Would please let me know how far apart they are in sound quality?
I own Klipsch Forte 2 and NHT Model Four from many years ago. I think I've been looking at wrong price categories of speakers for my next audiophile journey, $8k and $16k, eh? Searching for end-game speakers, for a live music type Klipsch-phile, I am not sure if La Scala will be my final destination? Maybe open baffle speakers?
Holy Smokes!! We did NOT know that. Last December when we reviewed them they were around 16K. At this new price, hell no. Gonna live that B&W life and fly somewhere nice with the leftover cash. First class both ways. :)
Great review. Sorry, but didn’t quite get to which of the previous 805 generations you referenced your nostalgic experience? Was it the 805 nautilus? The 805S? They first generation 805 diamonds? Thanks!
I LOVE the B&W sound. It sounds the least fatiguing, 'pleasant' and laid back to my ears. And it plays modern Electronic music so damn well! One of the most versatile speakers out there and they don't get credit for that...Sadly, for myself, the one from them that I truly like (801) , which seems to be my holy grail speaker, is way too impractical and I will never buy it (too expensive, too heavy). I have to spend time researching alternatives now.
Sadly I feel that the 805 has not improved over the years. My 805 Silver Signatures from the early 90s still sound and look better than the later models. Having a 7" driver they have better bass and the external pure silver crossover sound so musical. I haven't done a comparison on the latest version though. They were more expensive, the price of mine were 8,000 dollars 30 years ago. Shame that when they break they cant be fixed.
This B&W seems like a good one. I will admit I have been a B&W hater since the 80's, since I couldn't afford them and I hated the uppity A-holes that talked and looked down at us lesser folk. The cheaper series of BW's that I was able to listen to over the years would make me smirk while thinking they ain't all that. So even though I have no love for B&W, I have heard the 800 series with McIntosh gear at a local high end dealer..they are damn impressive and I understand why some people would absolutely love them.
✅ *👉B&W 805 D4: **bit.ly/3aZ3Ebz*
✅ *👉FOCAL BATHYS: **bit.ly/3CmKLL*
✅ *CLICK ❤ THANKS to highlight your question!*
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Should check out the Paradigm Founder 40B. They are crazy good.
@@Haurath Paradigm does not respond to our or viewer requests to get us gear for review. Actually they pretend they don't know who we are so we'll just have to take your word on it. LOL.
@@KristiWright Ouch. Seems some of us Canadians can be rude afterall. Who would have guessed.
@@Haurath No idea why they wouldn't send stuff as Andrew has owned P/ML/A over the years and has typically been a fan.
Nice review but is the credit card smoking? And do you have a new set of speakers? And thanks for the idea of a matte finish, I’m building a set of bookshelf speakers but was waffleling on finish. 👍
I really appreciate Kristi pushing the comparisons! It’s hard to get a feel for the “levels” of products. Andrew comment of “how do you compare a car to a rocketship” makes total sense, but that context comes out with these questions, and it’s super valuable!! Thank you both!!
Yeah I think it's very important to compare a Camry to a Lexus. One is nicer, one affords you other things and still a very good experience, specially old Lexus to new Camry.
Agreed - this was awesome!
The Holly Grail of Bookshelf speakers reviews. Haven’t clicked faster in my life.
You're going to want to watch every second of this one. It's start to finish packed with goodies!
*We're almost to 300,000 subs! Please help us get there by subscribing if you haven't already. Thank you!*
@@michal03966 TBH, TH-cam can be a toxic cesspool and so I just feel more comfortable being off camera. Thank you so much for watching!
Hi Kristi i´m Ulf from Sweden watching great and fun watching your reviews😊😊
@@ulfthereaper71 Hello Ulf from Sweden! We appreciate that so much.
@@KristiWright The new B&W 805 D4 would been a dream well well i for live quite happy with my M Audio Silver 300 6 G some more years i have the center C 350 all in white And Marantz sr 7012 for the 2 fronts i have the Xtz edge A 2 300 really happy with theXtz☺☺😎😎
I've owned my 805 D4 for two weeks, and they are just starting to impress and come on to a sound I'm enjoying immensely. At first, I found the bass too much and boomy, now they are sounding just right in the bass. The diamond tweeter is just so natural.
Surprisingly, I hear no difference in the sound of my 805 D4’s I bought new in April 2023 compared to right now. They were magnificent right out of the box and equally magnificent now. Conversely, the Martin-Logan CLS electrostatic speakers (Andrew has a video on these) took a freaking year to break in and were still improving when I sold them. BTW, the CLS were shrill and without bass for weeks & weeks when they were new.
I was laughing so hard when andrew had his internal struggle with the 805d4 vs b&O 28s, I am baised as B&O 28s owner, the greatest asspect of those speakers for me is that I have let go of my desire for new components, I have very little self control so it kinda nice to see that even though its my "settle down" hifi setup its still in the same category as the best of the best.
I’d hope so for the price.
I really wish Andrew spoke a little bit about the vs formation duo, given how glowing he was about them in his review. I feel comparison is valid for the fans of the channel who listen attentively to his recommendation and overall thoughts no matter how odd ball the comparisons.
I discovered your and Kristi's channel while trying to build out my living room and computer setups. Both setups have been completed for a few weeks now, so I really don't have a "need" to keep coming back and watching your content...at least, I shouldn't if I have any respect for my wallet. Jokes aside, your production value, charisma, honesty, knowledge, and, most importantly, realistic perspective on HiFi audio and home theater keep bringing me back. I will likely never buy the B & W 805 D4s, but I sat through your entire review for whatever reason. You and Kristi need to buckle up...I have a feeling this 295k subscriber number is going to be shooting up very quickly. I understand subscriber count is no indication of content quality, but it's obvious you both are on another level. I cannot wait to watch the continued growth of your channel.
The denon a110 being your favorite amplifier pairing speaks volumes as the technics 1000 got a glowing review from yall. Several amps, rotel 1592, technics g700, musical fidelity m5 have gotten high praise from yall. When you do b the denon review can yall do a big comparison run down at the end like you did in the video?
@Andrew, I decided against the 800‘er series and went for the Dutch & Dutch 8c- active stand speakers with cardiod design and built in DSP. Would be great if you tested these, they‘re excellent.
Great review. Thank you! Would love you guys to do a review on Gershman Acousitics Studio II speakers. Small outfit from Toronto, handmade, incredible quality and sound!
I just got the McIntosh MAC7200
Stereo receiver & the B&W 805D4 gloss black speakers....I took me a life time to get them////over $20,000.00 & I am still spending...sales tax & the B&W stands.
I think the sound great
Kristi: Bang & Olufsen 28
Andrew: cut cut cut. CUT!!!
HAHAH.
Great video Andrew! I recently heard the 805D4 & the Formation Duos & to be honest my listening experience was a little different on the low end. I found the 805 to be bass heavy & boomier, while the Formation Duos lacked the extra low end boom, but had really accurate & tight bass which I was really impressed by. I connected the formation sub as well & that surely helped. I wanted to know your thoughts on what you feel about both these & how would you compare these speakers in detail, given that they share some of the same components, but have a huge price difference.
What are your thoughts on pairing the Mcintosh MA252 with the 805D4?
Can I connect an external subwoofer (not the Formation Bass) wired to the Formation Audio device? (To pair with formation duos)
One thing I’m very sure of, and if money were no object, and based on all your speaker reviews, and with all the choices possible at the high-end level of audio, I still wouldn’t know where to start 😂
One of your best review and interaction. I appreciated this. Thank you.
Kristi - thank you for asking those comparison questions. Super helpful
As a B&W lover, I absolutely loved this review/video. And once again I'm re-invigorated to make it my goal to get my hands on a set of 805s. I may not end up with the D4s, but a D3 will do.
Loved Kristi's comparisons this time. You Know she IS right with her somewhat outrageous comparisons. All those speakers are in the back of our minds, wondering which would come up on top. Good to know 805's did every time.
Here is one setup to think about. This would be my no-cost-an-object setup.
The 805s ($8500) + McIntosh MA1200 ($15000) + MCD 1200 ($12000) [$375000 + Tax] ...
Yes, it's a downpayment for a house in most parts of the US, even in this root canal of an economy. But I think it would fit in the category of an "End-Game" system.
Your Thoughts...if you care.
Anyways...LOVE the channel!
Cheers
I do have 805 D3’s with a Luxman L-590 AxII Class A integrated amplifier. Wonderful combination. Save a few bucks and divert it to a PAIR of sealed subs. That makes the biggest difference.
Love to hear a review and a comparison of the Fyne Audio F700 and the B&W 805 D4. By the way been following you and Kristi since the beginning, a big Klipsch fan myself but diversifying a second system. Darren, Texarkana Texas.
Hope you get your chance to review the NEW 805 D4 signature series that just got announced.
I second that!
More JBLs! For us JBL freaks. I have a couple, the 4429 and a vintage 4311. I also have the original B&W 805 Nautilus, it's nice, but the JBLs are... exciting!
Someday my budget may allow. Until then my 2007 B&W 604 series 3 (last year made in England) will remain my main speakers in my two channel set up…. Great review!! 🎉🎉😊😊
Hi. Thanks for this complete as well as entertaining review. Have you considered doing a review of the Sonus Faber Sonetto iii speakers? ...Just something for your consideration.
This is a speaker on my shortlist and I appreciate your review. I thought the format was fun and the way that you went back-and-forth asking one other questions. I am curious about the different finishes available and I would love to see some crazy colors like bright orange.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Andrew, new subscriber here on your channel, love your reviews. I purchased the QA Concept 500's, not primarily from your review as Ive had the 3030i bookshelfs and the Concept 40's, but your review solidified my purchase of the Concept 500's. My question to you would be, could you do a review of your Top Ten all time favorite speakers (no cost associated). Obviously, the more expensive speakers are going to make the list, but it would be interesting to get your thoughts on the no-cost option (within reason of course) on what you think are the best speakers out there, 1 through 10.
This was one of my favorite episodes! Andrew you can tell these Bowers struck a chord with you. You had an undeniable grin almost the entire time! It was fun watching & all of the comparisons were informative. As an owner of 802D3s I admit I’m fond of the brand. Certainly iconic but at the end of the day they have to sound great. And they do. Fantastic episode! ❤
Thank you so much, Timobi_1! We appreciate you watching.
Love this review!! Christy had the best gut punching comparisons. The Bush was hilarious 😆😂
Thank you!! 😁
Happy to see the B&W Trilogy has come to a satisfying conclusion. WAY better than Rise of Skywalker 🤪
I just look forward to a better year I lost my wife to Covid in January so just want to continue to move on. I still miss her so much 😢
I am so sorry for your loss. I truly wish the best for you. Hang in there!
I’m so sorry for your loss.
Jeff, my heart goes out to you. I hope you have family and friends to lean on during this difficult time.
Wishing you all the best. ❤
So sorry for your loss. I hope for continued healing.
Best hifi reviews on TH-cam. 👍
Aww thanks!
Hi Andrew another amazing review from you, by any chance are you planning to review kef reference 1 meta, can you compare it with 805 d4 and utopia if you ever review it?
May be next year if not this one.
I would just buy the Polk audio R 700's , and have amazing sound and have a ton of extra cash ! Have a great day !
This is a VERY good strategy!
I want to do the same but I'm concerned with the center being a two way
I bought a pair of R 700's and am happy I did!
I didn't google US prices, but in Europe Bowers & Wilkins 805 D4 costs almost 9k, Focal Kanta1 5k. and Focal Sopra1 7.5k. So maybe Focal Sopra 1 review someday? The Kanta is simply not a competitor to the 805 D5 in my opinion, but after your review I would really like to hear how these B&W sound. 😉
Question:What’s your favorite speaker?
Answer: That’s easy to answer..THE NEXT ONE.
That's not even remotely accurate Carmine, don't be like that.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Andrew..much like the video on the audiophile ladder of climbing the of ever more expensive gear ( I was at the Toronto Audiofest last weekend..listening to gear that cost more than the house I grew up in) there’s always next level or another improved model…BUT if these are your End Games speakers ..then congrats 🍾
just got a pair of B&W 705 S-2 speakers -- (looking at them for awhile - and since new "S-3" is out I got for good price) Very detailed sound. "Tight" bass (if not tons of it) Pretty good for price I paid. I have Polk LSiM 703s - which for price I got them for Also Good. Are the B&Ws better than the Polks on digital tracks at higher volume? Yes - they are! But on my older (I grew up in 1960s) "analog" stuff the difference is not that much - the Polks are fine with that stuff.
I like the modern (and touch strange) look of the B&Ws too. Something "different" with the "tweeter on top" thing. I am now to point where it would take a lot of $$ to make appreciable difference.
Dynaudio Confidence is my choice over B&W ( and any other speaker I have had / listent to). Had the C1 mk 2 for years and are currently saving up to the confidence 20
Just bought a well priced pair of Ex Demo pair of C20, did listen to the B&W. The B&W sound is not for me; blown away by the C20, not cheap but still feel good value.
Now that 20222 is coming to an end and you two have experienced more products, can we expect to see some sort of update of what stack you and Kristi would purchase at the $1000, $2500 and maybe $4k price points? I'm curious what amps would be chosen in those price points....
Oooo I liked the new 365 day return policy for the headphones. I'm going to look into that.
Be sure to use our link so they know we sent you bit.ly/3CmKLL - thanks!
Thanks!
andrew, I have been an "audiophile," or as I call it, a music lover, since I was in college back in 2003. In 2016, we built our dream home with a theater/media room and custom built in wall rack to show off my McIntosh equipment that I purchased for the room and brought my B&W Nautilus 802's up front, HTM1 Center, N804's sides, N805's rears, and 4 B&W Cinema 7's in the ceiling for Atmos channels. Running the theater:
McIntosh MX122
McIntosh C2500 preamp
McIntosh MC452 on fronts
McIntosh MC207 on 7 other channels
McIntosh MC152 on the remaining two
One day coming home from work in 2018, I decided on a whim to stop by my dealer and purchase the new B&W 802 D3's and matching center because why not? But really, I had never owned anything but B&W and loved them.. WELP........... lived with the D3's for 4 years and over that time, I found myself NOT listening to music (2 channel) almost never. This hit me like a brick all because from 2002 to 2018, I listened to 2 channel for about 2-4 hours a day/night with a few glasses of bourbon. I made an real effort to find out why and it was obvious that I DESPISED the 802 D3''s'
I didn't want to believe it was the speaker, so I first sold the MX122 and replaced with Anthem AVM 70 and traded Mac C2500 in and bought the C2700. It still sounded horrid, I dragged my Focal Aria 926's to the theater and replaced the 802s. It was a much more enjoyable experience. I made the decision right there to rid myself of the 802 D3's. While that was happening, I was pretty disappointed in the DAC in the new McIntosh C2700 tube preamp considering it was nearly 9000 dollars. The final straw was when I pulled my Meridian Prime Headphone Amp/Dac and Power Supply and streamed Tidal though it and it made the 2700 sound like a Walmart Kenwood car stereo.
I may have made a crazy stupid decision.....I sold/traded every single piece of equipment expect my MC452. I live in Alabama, so it's hard to audition great speakers. I took a blind chance based on your review and my affinity for other Focal's and purchased a pair of Focal Diablo Utopia Colour Evo speakers. THey are being driven by the MC452 and my source. So, I am extremely disappointed in the Diablo's and have been getting bullied by every Focal dealer over in Georgia telling me that McIntosh is garbage and I need to get new electronics and sources. I am so damn lost hrew and need help/advice. Luxman 509 is an integrated that one dealer is trying to shove down my throat, but I really want to hear the Focal's on the Rotel Diamond you reviewed as well as the Michi X3 and X5.
The Diablo's are so damn great with highs, but the mids are super disappointing. I am sorry for the book, but I am wondering around the audio industry forrest. 🤢
It sounds like you've had just about every high-end offering under the sun. Not sure why or what has caused you to be unhappy for of all the speakers and equipment you listed, if happiness didn't rest in one or more of the combos I think the issue may rest less with the gear and more with the setup and/or room. There is nothing "wrong" with B&W, Focal, McIntosh etc. Sure you can prefer one over another, but wrong, I don't personally think so. SO, is your room treated? Before going to B&W what speakers did you have? Because whatever it was, moving to B&W then Focal at a minimum tells me you moved to less rolled-off speakers on the top end, which may be the culprit to a degree. But at the same time you also are saying you like the top end of the Focals, so 🤷♂️. Regardless, you don't need to talk to dealers right now, you. need to sit with your system and honestly determine sonically what it is you like and don't like. Then ask yourself how many of those things can be addressed with proper setup/treatments before spending another dime on gear because it's not the gear I'm afraid.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Room is treated. We built the theater from scratch with a dealer. Soy 675es projector. I have always had B&W. In fact, I absolutely LOVE the old B&W sound. So much, that I came across a pair of CDM1SE's on FB for 300 (pair) and I snatched them up to use in my office. I pulled my pair of SVS SB12-Plus subs out of storage and used the hi pass on them in conjunction with the B&W........The sound gave me nostalgia goosebumps and listened for hours.
Back to your question......I have owned B&W speakers from 1999-2022. In 2017, I purchased my first non B&W speakers....a 9 channel Aria setup for our living room. I came to where I am now in a very non tradtional way ha.
In 2002, I had a good summer and a scholarship check arrived (which my parents were unaware of) and I did what any 22 year old living I a fraternity house would do, I traded them in for Nautilus 804’s and bought a McIntosh MC162. That last year in a 12x12 room was interesting.
I started grad school in 2003 and when the scholarship arrived again, I sold the 804’s and bought some 803’s, the HTM1, and another MC162. The following year and my last as a student, I cashed the check, sold the 162’s , traded the 803’s , sold the Marantz and enjoyed N802’s, a MC352, a MC2255, and a Meridian 561M. I was in my own apartment and it sounded damn good. I kept those 802’s and HTM1 until 2019, when I moved to the 802 D3.
I’ve tried different equipment, room treatments, room correction, etc, but I just love them like I used to. I think they are a little too forward and analytical for me now. I listened to as many speakers in the 15-20k range as I could, and fell head over heels for the Focal Sopra 2. Selling the 802’s is really hard and the few dealers who still take trades, we’re offering 8-10k for them. I ended up finding a Focal dealer who has a client that wanted the 802’s down to the color. So, he offered me a brand new pair of Utopia Diablo s for my 802’s and HTM1 D3. I pulled the trigger. I've moed them around, changed rooms, borrowed equipment, from dealers and I just cant fall in love with them. I can still return for credit and was going to consider Meridian, Sonus Faber,Legacy and Magico A5. Every delaer tells me to get rid of all the Mcintosh, it's not worth the money
I know Meridian is a weird choice, but back at our old house I had a Meridian 861 processor and Mac amps running the Nautilus
802's and it still the best set up I have heard to this day
@@AuburnM5 maybe you should organize a blind auditioning at your home. Meaning, get some of your friends to hook-up different speakers under the same setup, without telling you which brand you're listening every time. Ignore the logo's/brand. Just check what you truly like. And also what mood you're in that particular day. Seems like you've already spent quite a crazy amount of $ and I think you should have reached the most in a home-setup. Also check John Darko's channel ;)
@@AuburnM5 why you just don’t go back to the pre B&W Continuum Speakers like the 800 D2? You are not alone in not liking the new B&W sound. Electronic wise I personally would suggest Linn. Goes well with B&W in my opinion. Get a Linn Selekt with Katalyst (or even organik if you can afford it) and buy 2 Klimax Solo power amps. Pair this with something like the 802 D2 and you will have an awesome set up that probably produces the sound you like.
I have some B&W 703’s. You know…listening to reviews on subjective things like speakers is amusing to me. Don’t get me wrong…I love listening to this stuff, but it seems self-indulgent. Please keep it up. Love your reviews.
Yea I totally agree. It’s entertainment, no more nor less. Especially if you think about the influence of the room. Crazy. Take care
Good morning! So many Easter eggs. These last 2 months of the year should have some great stuff. Can’t wait. Have a great week.
How would you compare this to the B&W formation Duos?
I’d love for you guys to get a hold of the MA Platinum 100s for comparison. Great review!
Looks : If you compare with Focal Kanta for looks, yes then the B&W might be better looking, but if you compare with a Focal Sopra, the Sopra wins hands down.
(I don't like that external tweeter of the B&W series and I've seen it breaks off very easiliy).
Sound : The B&W diamond tweeter is too shouty for me, the Beryllium tweeters of Focal (Kanta, Sopra and Utopia) sound more smooth.
Price : The Focal Kanta is cheaper here in Europe then the B&W 805D4, the Sopra 1 is slightly more expensive.
So I think a comparison with the Sopra would have been more fair.
I heard the 805D4, I heard the Sopra, and went home with Sopra and never regretted it.
I very much agree with your remarks about the shoutiness. Ultimately it came down between Dynaudio Heritage Special and Sopra no1 for me. Both are very impressive but in different areas. I pulled the trigger on the Dynaudios, as their top end was more to my taste and their tonality couldn't be matched.
Sopra's airiness was really impressive, Sopra no2 especially more so.
Ok, now THIS is interesting. I own the Kanta N°1 and have heard the B&W 60something and 804D4 at a show (and the Kanta N°1 at the same show). The 804s were connected to a Michi X5, and I was sitting up front a bit off axis, with the right speaker pointing at me. Both B&W came across as shrill, and at (many?) times, painful (the music selection did not help too much, as Roxanne... really?). The Kantas are much more relaxed than that at home, but also at the demo (different room, NAD Unity Nova and another time 252s I think?). (Btw. I wasn't the only one thinking the 804 D4s were painfully bright... I wonder what happened).
You are dead on with the boosted bass on the Focal, which is a shame. And the B&W look a million bucks, while the Kantas look cheap (I'd say the B&W look more expensive than the Sopra. By quite a bit. If you look up close). Then again, Focal produces in France, and the French are not exactly known for being the most precise workers in the world... Besides wavy paint there's a bubble on the front of mine, resulting in a black dot right underneath the tweater (my speakers are glossy blue). A friends Kanta N°2 even has the glass plate glued on at an angle...
Your description makes me want to give the 805 D4 another chance... but first up, new amp.
In any case, I'm really excited about the Focal review. :)
Hard to say what could have played a role in your experience. Without listening to the speakers in the same environment with the same associated equipment, I'm not sure it's a fair evaluation. Thanks so much for tuning in.
Andrew is my "go to" reviewer now! I trust him and that's not something you can say about many reviewers!!
I appreciate that.
Hi both. I love your review and enthusiasm for this speaker. Kristi the unrealistic comparison is actually a fabulous idea, because that's what people will think about so please feel free to repeat with any other review, you have my support. I also agree with you both about integrating and living with the B&W speaker in a domestic environment is far easier and would keep all family members happy, especially in the UK and Europe where houses/rooms are smaller. Finally I have a pair of 702 S2 speakers which give some 80% of the equivalent 800 series at a fraction of the cost, however, having recently auditioned the 800 D4 as well as the KEF Blade Meta and new PS Audio speakers, I seriously want the 800 D4s. Best speaker that I've heard that will fit in my listening space, no question. Please keep up the great work.
speaker grills are just for protecting the driver when not in use
Dod, don't let her back you into a corner, stick-&-move stick-&-move, get her Dod (Luv u Kristi) counter punch that cuteness.
Can of worms alert ... Last speakers you'll ever own? Gird your loins for all of the outraged audiophiles who are about to tell you how vastly superior their "insert speaker brand here" speakers are ... It's just the nature of the audiophile beast.
You called it. 😂
B&W 805 D4 or Formation Duo or B&O Beolab 28 - all down to how much time to find the "right" amp for the passive speakers. B&W formation Duo rule themselves out as they can not form part of a surround sound system. With the B&O a mix and match of 28. 20 and 18 with their sub and centre speaker all via WiSA.
No bargain choices and once set up without an A/B comparison you are just left to enjoy the sound they make.
The comparison that REALLY needs to be made here is between the 805 D4 and the KEF Reference 1 Meta. They are the exact same price and both can be bought from the same retailer.
@Andrew Robinson any chance of this review ahead? I would love to hear your take on these two since they directly compete against each other (basically the KEF are made to order by hand) but they cost the same, and are both supposed to be spectacular.
Got me to peruse the B&W website. Love the matchups Kristi asked about. Looking forward to just enjoying music with my present system. Haven't caught the change bug yet. Interested in open baffle speakers though.
I would love to know how the Monitor Audio Gold 100 compares? Thanks for a great channel!!!
I am down to the KEF Reference 1 and the B&W 805 D4. That comparison would be amazing. Make it happen!!
I agree. Similar size, similar price, similar companies - subtly different design philosophy. One or other of those two may well be my end game speakers. But which one? I have heard them both - but in very differing circumstances. I would love to see someone (Andrew!) audition them side by side.
Thank you for the review! For the same price if you have a chance please review the Marten Oscar Duos! It would be nice to compare them against B&Ws and Focal's
Question of the day: I look forward to find a partner to share my hobbies and life with, some day soon 😅😇😂
Companionship is so important. May you find someone who makes you smile soon!
I don’t care how good any product is… if it’s that ugly (imo). Which is why I’ve always scrolled fast by B&W speakers.
I’ve been waiting for this one for a while. I really want to switch back to bookshelves because of space constraints, and since I am a B&W *itch this is the one for me. Totally different finish, rosewood would be the one. So this is perfect. Thank you! Once I sell enough extended warranties, I’ll definitely get a pair! lol
But awesome video guys again! Especially the bush moment. I do want you guys to get the Beolab 90s. You have no idea.
Wishing you all a great day!
I would love to test the 90s. Ever since we watched a video of Alicia Keys new house tour with them, I've wanted them. I think they would look crazy cool in our house.
They state 8200 watts per speaker. How many outlets do you need? Even 20A at 2,400, you need 4 dedicated outlets per speaker, right? How do you protect against a surge?
@@techsamurai11 I’m lost on this one. What are we talking about? If you’re referring to the BeoLab 90, then you get a dedicated 40/50amp circuit like your electric stove has. One is plenty enough.
Another great review of a great speaker.. there is to many great choices, my head is going to explode trying to decide!
Do you have any opinions on Spendors? A1 / A4s?
I will only buy studio reference speakers for music listening in the future. The are very accurate and a lot cheaper than many HIFI snake oil speakers, not all but many are. ME Geithain RL944 is the one I want to buy one day.
To continue in remaining both cancer & Covid free in order to enjoy some live music.
Wishing you a healthy rest of the year and the same for the next!
It’s really a shame you didn’t get to revisit some of the previous generation bowers, and Wilkins. It would’ve been an interesting comparison.
Watch the whole video before posting y’all! Literally answered ALL my comparisons! I would recommend anyone buying these to pair them with a Rel Sub over high level
Novilicious out here doing the lord's work. LOL.
was wondering why you haven't reviewed Ohm speakers? if you do do you think they would be good in a home theater set up.
That's a really ugly design
My last speaker...... c'mon ........ Hahaha, I told my wife my stereo was almost finished, she just looked at me and laughed. 🤣😂🙃😂
Great review! But question about Formation Duo was cut… So can tou answer about comparison B&W 805 d4 vs B&W Duo?
The 805s are the better speaker.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews B&W Formation Duo for connect to MacBook Pro 14-inch M2 Max
B&W Formation Duo is most powerfull B&W ever.
B&W Formation Duo is number 1 speaker in the World!
Now you need to get a pair of KEF Reference 1 Meta's and do a comparison to crown a true British standmount champion!
Focal Kanta are not the same price as B&W 805D4 you’re thinking of Sopra and their build quality rivals 805
They are roughly the same price - bit.ly/3Dk0B8z
Not in U.K. (both £7k)
Great review. Thanks.
Question of the day ….for us is becoming grandparents for the first time 🤗💚💚💚
Congrats!!!
How exciting!
@@KristiWright 👍😁YES ,THANKS 💚💚💚
@@andrewrobinsonreviews THANKS ANDREW 😁💚💚💚
I have demo'd some B&W's at a high end store and could not have been less impressed. Their build quality was exquisite, but the sound was completely sterile and lifeless, and they were extremely inefficient. In the end, I found them to be all show, no go.
Sound is very subjective so its completly understandable the sound is not for everyone
@@andreasmoller9798 For sure. Anything that isn't an anechoic measurement of a speaker, or detailing data points about a speaker is subjective. I don't begrudge anyone who likes this speaker, and to be fair I have not heard THIS speaker, just other B&W's of this and higher price range and have always been extremely underwhelmed for the price you pay. Aesthetically they are near works of craftsmanship, if not art.
@@dlloyd6300 i use 702 s2 and love them and they have good amount of detail, but they are not neutral, but i will buy different brand next time, i will absolutly look into perlisten r7t they seem promising, if they sound good it will be win, becouse those speakers have serious spl output
@@andreasmoller9798 I hear nothing but praise for Perlisten, both measurements and subjective. Also a beautiful speaker. Certainly not cheap but I think fair for what you get. You're lucky to be able to dabble in such equipment 👍. Arendal and Paradigm also have some lovely offerings.
@@andreasmoller9798 My personal speakers are Klipsch RF7 III's. Certainly Klipsch is devisive in the community, and they may not be the best measuring speaker but oh the output levels without breaking a sweat, and the things that true compression driver tweeter can do. I find them to have the perfect level of detail without being too bright.
Price: $7999 (matching stands are an additional $1250 per pair)
I don't know why people spend so much money on B&W when they could easily get a pair of Genelec 8361, which are calibrated to be neutral, and are $10k a pair, and you don't need an amplifier. (That is the 10 inch woofer). To compete against the 805 you would get the Genelec 8351, which is 8" woofer, and is about $8k a pair. You run the calibration software on those units, and flatten it against your room, and now you have what a recording engineer has; 99% accuracy. If you want punch, the B&W 801's are incredible, esp. with 1000 watts behind them. That chest thump is a special feeling. But most home stereo equipment is highly colored, and frankly silly. Flat speakers give you what was made in the studio.
Stop making sense!
Vandersteens blow away genelec.
@@raymaksimavicius4902 If a speaker is within +- 3 DB (or better) from low to high frequencies, it is flat, which is the objective with a studio monitor. It thus reproduces almost exactly what the mixing engineers intended. Home stereo equipment is notorious for coloration.
No speaker can "blow away" a highly accurate studio monitor. The only difference between the members of the Genelec family is how low you want to be able to reproduce. You pay a great deal more, and require a much larger cabinet volume and piston diameter if you want to get fidelity below 50 hz. The latest Genelecs have a microphone and software that allows you to compensate for your room quirks, and this is commonly used to further flatten the curve to the mixing engineer.
Unless you have a specially designed and equipped room, you will have odd resonances that will throw things off. Very few home units bother to fix this issue.
The B&W 801's have 16" woofers, and with 1000 watts driving, has that chest thump that is so satisfying.
The whole consumer hi-fi business is mostly nonsense, with crazy fetishes like fancy cabling, and other immeasurable, expensive niceties that allow the retailers to make a lot of money from gullible people.
The fact remains that the music is mixed on studio monitors from Neumann, Genelec, Focal, and others with modest piston diameters, because close-range monitors are much tighter coupled to the ear, and many times the engineers only need occasional verification with large diameter stuff for certain kinds of music.
If you go to B&H or Thomann, and look up studio monitors you will find that most of the products are close range. Every engineer i've seen interviewed has a similar configuration.
Maybe Vandersteen should pursue the studio monitor market. They may indeed have a wonderful product. But the monitors that exist today are awfully good, and so much better than the lousy speakers that people listen on (which are often their phones, or crappy bluetooth speakers, or car stereos).
Accuracy can be measured, and many consumer products are wildly inaccurate. If the bias happens to be to your taste, fine.
Please allow me my personal opinion as an aging engineer. The eternal problem when nearfield studio monitors are compared to hi-fi or high-end speakers. Nearfield studio monitors are monitoring speakers and have no real relevance in the living room. The Genelec are excellent speakers, but actually nothing for the living room. I know the Genelec 8351 from several trade fairs. This is my own personal opinion. Therefore, there are at least two categories of loudspeakers in a proper studio. Near-field studio monitors and a pair of good hi-fi speakers.
Whether these must necessarily cost several thousand dollars or even more, each studio must decide for itself. Of course, quality usually has its price. I own a pair of B&W in my living room. I grew up with Bowers & Wilkins. My very first time and experiences as a young little boy in a professional studio. There were Bowers & Wilkins speakers, what else? I also own a pair of Neumann Studio monitors next to inexpensive hi-fi speakers in a small hobby studio.
@@btsr2553 You are correct regarding near-field monitors and "a pair of good hi-fi speakers" as studio mainstays, but there are also mid-field and far-field monitors whose use is dependent upon the distance to the mixing board. I've heard many many great speakers during my 64 years as a hobbyist and enthusiast, and to me, the sound of a good pair of active studio monitors beats the sound of 95% of home speakers, including B&W. I've also compared passive speakers to their active counterparts and you can tell the difference in about 5 seconds...even when level matched. Just my opinion, of course.
Wonderful review, as always!
Without sounding pessimistic, I'm not looking forward to anything as the year closes, but embracing the habit of cherishing whatever positives life throws my way, big or small. Thanks for the great content!
I've found that low (no) expectations often leads to less disappointment 😂
The bush was epic 😂
We try and have fun.
Slam dunk review guys! Even the sponsor part was great 🤘❤️
I like that it looks like you pulled your shirt out of the laundry basket and didn't even care to iron or hang it. You're every man's audiophile. Keep it up.
How about comparing them to the Sonus Faber Guarneri and Tad Micro Evolutions?
Bravo
Thank you for introducing me to Lady Blackbird. So damn good.
She has to do a Bond cover someday.
@@techsamurai11 cover? She should be doing the next movie!
@@davidembrey4248Sorry, that's what I meant! 🙂
My 805 D2's or they might be D1's, I don't ever need anything more
Morning guys!
Morning Luis, thanks for joining us.
Love the comparison to other speakers. I compare cars the same way, Corolla vs my Lexus. I think I understand your style of review better. I can afford QC50, 705 and 805. Would please let me know how far apart they are in sound quality?
First
Second
Thanks for tuning in!
I own Klipsch Forte 2 and NHT Model Four from many years ago. I think I've been looking at wrong price categories of speakers for my next audiophile journey, $8k and $16k, eh? Searching for end-game speakers, for a live music type Klipsch-phile, I am not sure if La Scala will be my final destination? Maybe open baffle speakers?
The focal evos are 21K btw.
Holy Smokes!! We did NOT know that. Last December when we reviewed them they were around 16K. At this new price, hell no. Gonna live that B&W life and fly somewhere nice with the leftover cash. First class both ways. :)
@@andrewrobinsonreviews That's "installing a front door" money! Wow.
Yeah some of these speaker price increases are insane and more are coming
Great review.
Sorry, but didn’t quite get to which of the previous 805 generations you referenced your nostalgic experience? Was it the 805 nautilus? The 805S? They first generation 805 diamonds?
Thanks!
800 D2s
that's one silly looking speaker
Hi, hoping I could get an answer, do you recommend replacing a tweeter for a B&W cdm1 ?
I'm sorry but these are so unbelievably overpriced especially for the "sound" and size that these deliver, a near total joke.
I LOVE the B&W sound. It sounds the least fatiguing, 'pleasant' and laid back to my ears. And it plays modern Electronic music so damn well! One of the most versatile speakers out there and they don't get credit for that...Sadly, for myself, the one from them that I truly like (801) , which seems to be my holy grail speaker, is way too impractical and I will never buy it (too expensive, too heavy). I have to spend time researching alternatives now.
In no way is there $9500 worth of materials or engineering in these speakers.
You're getting fleeced.
Awesome review, I have the D3s and I love them.
Great review, just what I was looking for.
If you had to compare these to KEF LS50 Meta, what percent would you say these would be better by?
They are not comparable. The B&Ws are hands down better.
Sadly I feel that the 805 has not improved over the years. My 805 Silver Signatures from the early 90s still sound and look better than the later models. Having a 7" driver they have better bass and the external pure silver crossover sound so musical. I haven't done a comparison on the latest version though. They were more expensive, the price of mine were 8,000 dollars 30 years ago. Shame that when they break they cant be fixed.
This B&W seems like a good one. I will admit I have been a B&W hater since the 80's, since I couldn't afford them and I hated the uppity A-holes that talked and looked down at us lesser folk. The cheaper series of BW's that I was able to listen to over the years would make me smirk while thinking they ain't all that. So even though I have no love for B&W, I have heard the 800 series with McIntosh gear at a local high end dealer..they are damn impressive and I understand why some people would absolutely love them.