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B&W 803s vs Focal 1027Be

Any clear winner here between the current B&W 803S and the Focal 1027Be? The Focal costs $2,000-more and sounds smoother/sweeter with a bit more extension and air on top. The B&W has a deeper sound with more weight and a bigger presentation. Both Speakers have trade-offs-neither is perfect. I don't want bigger, more expensive and difficult to drive Speakers, so I've narrowed it down to these 2, unfortunately, they're at 2 different Dealers and therefor cannot be audition side-by-side. I know that the 803D will smoke both of these, but it's quite a bit larger and for whatever reason-no deals are to be had on this model.
Any opinions?
jay123554c
dylanhenry
52 posts
 
Between the two speakers, the B&W 803S is not only superior, but way better bang-for-the-buck, something not often said about B&W. For $1,500 more than the Focals, like you mentioned, you can get the 803D even, which will eat the Focals for high tea and still be hungry for a prime rib dinner. For your needs and price-range, the 803S is probably the best bet.
mmeysarosh
124 posts
 
I have heard to Focals and B&W and its very much to preferences as well as thr driving components. The Focal will have and extended top end but with some amps (some Bryston models) may be a bit much.

B&W has been always a bit more foward so Classe and Mark Levinson electronics usually partner well. Synergy will be very important as well as your musical tastes and recording quality.
vinylmeister
68 posts
 
Listen to Pink Floyd The Wall disc 1 on the Focals at loud volumes and you will soon hear the loudspeakers shortcomings, then try it on the BWs
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