Maybe this will help you out.

http://forum.stereophile.com/floorloudspeakers/1205bw/index.html

http://www.stereophile.com/floorloudspeakers/wilson_audio_sasha_wp_loudspeaker/

The Audiogon Forum, by its nature, usually has numerous people who have tried and compared even the most expensive components and will almost certainly get you several different perspectives.

I've heard the Sophia 3 as well as the B&W 802D (came very close to purchasing a pair). Both were great speakers but they do have a different sound. I think at the end of the day its worth listening to both and judging which one you prefer. I was looking at replacing my speakers (ended up sticking with what I had as I didn't see a big enough jump in quality until we stated talking some very expensive speakers that would overpower my room). At the end of the day, I thought PMC speakers sounded much better than the Wilson or the B&W, but I could easily see how people could prefer the B&W or Wilson to those depending on the application and music they listened to.

Somewhat of a round about post, but basically I don't think you can say one is better or worse, its just different. The questions is what is what one you prefer.

Somewhat of a funny story, but recently setup a mini pro setup in my home office and I was shocked at how different studio monitors sounded. (i.e. Genelec, Adams, etc.). there were also a few brands that absolutely sounded horrible. The interesting thing here is all these speakers are targeting the same goal (accurate frequency response). Basically after hearing these differences you realize that everything is a moving target and there are very few definitive right and wrongs in the world of audio.

Avyskier wrote:

Is it fair to compare the B&W 802 Diamond with the Wilson Sasha 1? Are they in different leagues? If pricing was comparable, which would you choose?

For the same price as the Sasha, $26,000, you could get the Vandersteen Carbon 5, which sounds better to me.

Actually, the Vandersteen Quattro Wood CT is only $13,000, and is also excellent.

Many people find the Vandersteens to sound better. They have won "Best of Show" over and over and over at the High End shows.

audiophile2000 wrote:

.......basically I don't think you can say one is better or worse, its just different. The questions is what is what one you prefer.

To my ear, the B&W is the most neutral of the bunch.

JMHO YMMV

Bill - on the Hill
Practicing Curmudgeon & Audio Snob
- just an “ON” switch, Please -

I've only heard up to the 2ce. But they are very natural and coherant. And usually a better value, especially used.