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Heard the B&W N804d3s ...

I've owned the original iteration of the N804s since I bought them new in '01. After 15 years, I thought perhaps it was time to upgrade to a newer model. So, I auditioned the new N804d3s at a local retailer. They sounded great, and are an improvement over the originals in the areas of bass slam and airiness. However, that step up to my ears is equivalent to about 10-15%. Not sure that that sort of improvement justifies the price ($9K for the d3s vs. $3,500 for the original N804s), although "upgradeitis" tempts me to pull the plug. Is it just me, or does the law of diminishing returns apply in this case? Your thoughts on this or the qualitiative differences between the old and new Nautilus lines would be most appreciated.

rlb61
mb1audio
151 posts
 
2 things to consider. First, to make a good comparison, you really need to listen to the new speakers in your room with your electronics. (Yes, I know that's not always convenient, but it is true.) Second, B&W's cost far exceeds the sound quality they deliver. Some of that has to do with how much they put into the appearance of the speaker. Its substantial. And I'm not saying its right or wrong, that's just how it is. For some customers, appearance is very important, and there's nothing wrong with B&W for making products that customers want. 

If you're more concerned with sound quality, and are willing to consider other brands, I know you can get something a lot better than what you have for far less than 9k.
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
5,112 posts
 
I had 802's that I got for a consolation present when my first wife died.  I tried to make it work but disappointed at every turn.  I replaced them with Vandersteen speakers.   There is an upgrade for those now which I auditioned.  The upgrade was widely praised by all the reviewers.  When I heard them the sound difference was so very subtle, I decided not to upgrade...the cost was just not worth it for me. ...just sayin'
rlb61 OP
362 posts
 
Quite frankly, I still dig the sound and looks of the N804s (which I think are designed nicer than the current model). Just wish it had a bit more bass.  Maybe a really good sub would do the trick.
rlb61 OP
362 posts
 
Mb1 audio ... to which speakers are you referring?
mb1audio
151 posts
 
" Mb1 audio ... to which speakers are you referring?"

I wasn't referring to any specific speaker. I don't know anything about your tastes, electronics, room, .... etc. Personally, I think Vandersteen makes the best speakers, but it would be wrong for me to just assume they're the best option for you. As it stands, you have a pair of speakers you already know and like. Its very easy to make a mistake in a situation like this. Maybe if you list more details and expectations, we can suggest some speakers for you to demo.

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