So far it sounds excellent but would like to hear opinions, especially weak links. I am thinking about replacing the Arcam with a Macintosh MA6900. What do you think?
Gustavog, how do you compare the S805s highs to the N805s in terms of brightness? I recall the N805s being quite bright and unforgiving even with neutral components behind them and good recordings. Are the S805s less bright than the N805s, or the same? BTW, don't know how your Monster HTS3500 behaves, but the HTS2000 I once had is not even close to the PS Audio Ultimate Outlet I've got now. The Monster conditioner restricted dynamics when I plugged Pass Labs X-150 into it, just wanted to let you know.
Mijknarf, I got a very good deal for the S805 and took the plunge but was finally glad. The S805s sound a lot more natural than the N805, there is more detail and they have better and more bass. I read a review before that said that the S805s sounded against the N805s as if a veil has been taken off and I definitely second that. The mid highs are far better and instruments with lots of armonics sound more natural (percussion, piano, etc.). This is probably because of the new crossover and the fact that the tweeter is the same as the S800s. The S805s are definitely a big improvement over the N805s, not a marginal one. I haven't auditioned the Dynaudio compacts in detail but the Revel M20s are comparable or perhaps a bit better than the N805s. Not so with the S805s. The S805s are more balanced and detailed and probably a better buy, although more expensive. When I got them I was planning to compare them head to head with my N805s but finally that was not necessary. It is that evident. And you get the nice finish (red birds eye in my case).
Gustavog, looks like a great system. I have read your previous post regarding monitor speaker choices of many models with your decision being N805 (which I also own). On this system post, you show S805. I'm interested in your decision to change (one I'm also considering). What impressed you? Did you listen to the other brands (Revel, Dynaudio, etc.) and still choose B&W any way, etc. Thanks.
