KEF 205.2 or B&W 802D2?

Delpi

Good observations.... :)


Erik

Gentleman,
Can you share any thoughts regarding the B&W 802D2 versus the 802D3?
If cost is not an object, should one automatically prefer the newer of these ?
Amongst considerations are 1. the 802D2's in rose-nut are to my
eye significantly more attractive than the 802D3's....to the extent that if switching to the D3's I lean towards the gloss black finish, which
de-emphasizes the protruding front (also black) woofer grills, and 2. the 802's through the 802D2's are known for a somewhat lush sound which is highly pleasing even if....to a pianist....the sound of a piano on the D3's is unequivocally more realistic.
Is there a better arbiter of realism in sound reproduction than the piano ?
Seventies

I’ve not had the opportunity to listen to the 802D3, so can’t reach any conclusions.  After my evaluation of the D2’s vs my KEF 205’s, I found the KEF’s more musical overall, without the listener fatigue experienced the D2’s too hot high end.  I find piano very realistic from the KEF’s.  I’m always taken when I can hear the harmonics and decay as the piano sounds fade.  Of course the source makes a huge difference too.  
Hope this helps!