B&W 808 Speakers For Sale: Find Your Perfect Pair

Nov 8, 2025 by Admin 50 views

Are you looking to buy B&W 808 speakers? You've come to the right place! These iconic speakers are renowned for their exceptional audio quality, powerful bass response, and classic design. Whether you're an audiophile, a music enthusiast, or a collector, the B&W 808s are a fantastic addition to any sound system. Let's dive into what makes these speakers so special and how you can find the perfect pair for your needs.

What Makes the B&W 808 Speakers So Special?

The B&W 808 speakers are truly legendary in the world of audio equipment. Their reputation for delivering top-notch sound quality and durability has made them a favorite among audiophiles and professionals alike. Here's a closer look at some of the key features and qualities that set these speakers apart:

Unparalleled Sound Quality

At the heart of the B&W 808's appeal is its unparalleled sound quality. These speakers are designed to reproduce audio with incredible accuracy and clarity. The meticulous engineering and high-quality components ensure that every note, every nuance, and every subtle detail in your music is brought to life. Whether you're listening to classical symphonies, jazz improvisations, rock anthems, or electronic beats, the B&W 808s deliver an immersive and engaging listening experience.

The B&W 808s excel in sound reproduction because of their:

Exceptional clarity: The speakers render every frequency with precision, ensuring a clear and detailed soundstage.
Balanced frequency response: The B&W 808s offer a balanced sound profile, with no single frequency overpowering the others. This balance is crucial for accurate audio reproduction.
Deep and powerful bass: The robust woofers deliver a deep, rich bass that adds weight and impact to your music without sounding muddy or distorted.
Wide soundstage: These speakers create a broad and immersive soundstage, allowing you to feel as though you're in the same room as the musicians.

Classic and Robust Design

The design of the B&W 808 speakers is another reason for their enduring popularity. They boast a classic, timeless aesthetic that complements any listening environment. But their design isn't just about looks; it's also about functionality. The sturdy cabinets and high-quality materials contribute to the speakers' overall performance and longevity.

Key aspects of the B&W 808's design include:

Solid construction: The cabinets are built to minimize vibrations and resonances, ensuring that the sound remains pure and uncolored.
High-quality materials: B&W uses premium materials in the construction of the 808s, which contribute to both their sound quality and durability.
Timeless aesthetic: The classic design of these speakers means they look great in any room, from modern apartments to traditional listening rooms.

Durability and Longevity

Investing in a pair of B&W 808 speakers is a long-term commitment to quality audio. These speakers are built to last, and many vintage pairs are still in excellent working condition today. Their robust construction and high-quality components mean they can withstand years of use without any significant degradation in performance.

Factors contributing to the B&W 808's durability:

Premium components: B&W uses only the best drivers, crossovers, and other components in the 808s, ensuring long-term reliability.
Solid cabinet construction: The sturdy cabinets protect the internal components and minimize the risk of damage.
Timeless design: Because they aren't tied to any particular trend, the B&W 808s remain relevant and desirable for years.

A Favorite Among Professionals

Beyond their appeal to audiophiles, the B&W 808 speakers have also been a favorite among audio professionals. Their accurate sound reproduction makes them ideal for studio monitoring and critical listening applications. Many recording studios and mastering houses have relied on B&W 808s to ensure the highest quality audio production.

Professionals choose B&W 808s for:

Accuracy: The speakers provide a true representation of the audio signal, allowing engineers to make informed decisions.
Reliability: The robust construction and high-quality components ensure consistent performance in demanding studio environments.
Reputation: B&W has a long-standing reputation for excellence in the audio industry, making their speakers a trusted choice for professionals.

Where to Find B&W 808 Speakers for Sale

Now that you know what makes the B&W 808 speakers so special, you're probably wondering where you can find a pair for yourself. Since these speakers are no longer in production, you'll primarily be looking at the used or vintage market. Here are some of the best places to start your search:

Online Marketplaces

Online marketplaces like eBay, Reverb, and Audiogon are excellent resources for finding B&W 808 speakers for sale. These platforms connect buyers and sellers from all over the world, giving you access to a wide selection of speakers. You can often find good deals, but it's essential to do your due diligence and check the seller's reputation before making a purchase.

Tips for buying B&W 808s on online marketplaces:

Check the seller's feedback: Look for sellers with positive reviews and a history of selling audio equipment.
Read the descriptions carefully: Pay attention to the condition of the speakers and any potential issues.
Ask questions: Don't hesitate to contact the seller with any questions you have about the speakers.
Compare prices: Look at multiple listings to get an idea of the average price for B&W 808s in similar condition.
Consider shipping costs: Factor in the cost of shipping when comparing prices, as these speakers can be quite heavy.

Local Classifieds

Local classifieds like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace can also be great places to find B&W 808 speakers for sale. Buying locally allows you to inspect the speakers in person before making a purchase, which can be a significant advantage. You may also be able to negotiate a better price with a local seller.

Tips for buying B&W 808s through local classifieds:

Meet in a safe location: Choose a public place or a well-lit area for the transaction.
Inspect the speakers carefully: Check for any signs of damage or wear and tear.
Listen to the speakers: If possible, ask the seller to demo the speakers so you can assess their sound quality.
Bring a friend: It's always a good idea to bring a friend along when meeting with a stranger.

Audio Forums and Communities

Audio forums and online communities are another valuable resource for finding B&W 808 speakers. These forums often have classifieds sections where members can buy, sell, and trade equipment. You'll also find knowledgeable enthusiasts who can offer advice and insights about the speakers.

Benefits of buying B&W 808s through audio forums:

Access to knowledgeable sellers: You're likely to be dealing with fellow audio enthusiasts who care about the equipment they're selling.
Opportunity for discussion: You can ask questions and get advice from other members before making a purchase.
Potential for better deals: Sellers on forums may be more willing to negotiate prices with fellow enthusiasts.

Vintage Audio Dealers

Vintage audio dealers specialize in buying and selling used audio equipment. They often have a curated selection of high-quality vintage speakers, including B&W 808s. Buying from a dealer can provide some peace of mind, as they typically inspect and service the equipment before selling it.

Advantages of buying B&W 808s from a vintage audio dealer:

Inspected and serviced equipment: Dealers often clean and repair the speakers before selling them, ensuring they're in good working condition.
Warranty or return policy: Some dealers offer warranties or return policies, which can provide added protection.
Expert advice: Dealers can offer expert advice and guidance to help you choose the right speakers for your needs.

What to Look for When Buying Used B&W 808 Speakers

When buying used B&W 808 speakers, it's essential to know what to look for to ensure you're getting a quality product. Here are some key factors to consider:

Condition of the Drivers

The drivers (woofers, midranges, and tweeters) are the heart of any speaker, so it's crucial to check their condition. Look for any signs of damage, such as tears, cracks, or dents. Gently press on the cones to see if they move smoothly and without any scratching or rubbing sounds. If possible, listen to the speakers at different frequencies to ensure each driver is working correctly.

Things to check:

Physical damage: Look for any visible damage to the cones, surrounds, or dust caps.
Cone movement: Gently press on the cones to check for smooth, even movement.
Sound quality: Listen to the speakers at different frequencies to ensure each driver is producing sound.

Condition of the Cabinets

The cabinets should be in good condition, with no significant damage or wear and tear. Check for scratches, dents, or water damage. Make sure the cabinets are structurally sound and don't rattle or vibrate excessively when the speakers are playing.

Things to check:

Physical damage: Look for scratches, dents, or water damage.
Structural integrity: Ensure the cabinets are solid and don't rattle or vibrate.
Finish: Check the condition of the veneer or finish.

Condition of the Crossovers

The crossovers are responsible for dividing the audio signal between the different drivers. Over time, the components in the crossovers can degrade, affecting the sound quality. If possible, ask if the crossovers have been serviced or recapped. If not, you may want to factor in the cost of having them serviced.

Things to consider:

Service history: Ask if the crossovers have been serviced or recapped.
Sound quality: Listen for any signs of distortion or imbalance in the sound.
Cost of service: Factor in the cost of servicing the crossovers if necessary.

Overall Sound Quality

Ultimately, the most important thing is the overall sound quality of the speakers. Listen to them with a variety of music to assess their performance. Pay attention to the clarity, balance, and bass response. If possible, compare them to other speakers you're familiar with to get a sense of their strengths and weaknesses.

Things to listen for:

Clarity: The speakers should reproduce sound with detail and precision.
Balance: The frequency response should be balanced, with no single frequency overpowering the others.
Bass response: The bass should be deep and powerful without sounding muddy or distorted.
Soundstage: The speakers should create a wide and immersive soundstage.

Tips for Maintaining Your B&W 808 Speakers

Once you've found the perfect pair of B&W 808 speakers, it's essential to take care of them to ensure they continue to perform at their best. Here are some tips for maintaining your speakers:

Proper Placement

Proper placement is crucial for getting the best sound from your speakers. Experiment with different positions to find the optimal placement for your room. In general, you'll want to position the speakers so they form an equilateral triangle with your listening position. Also, avoid placing the speakers too close to walls or corners, as this can negatively impact the bass response.

Tips for placement:

Equilateral triangle: Position the speakers so they form an equilateral triangle with your listening position.
Distance from walls: Avoid placing the speakers too close to walls or corners.
Toe-in: Experiment with toe-in to adjust the soundstage and imaging.

Regular Cleaning

Regular cleaning will help keep your speakers looking and sounding their best. Use a soft, dry cloth to dust the cabinets and drivers. Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners, as these can damage the finish or components.

Cleaning tips:

Soft cloth: Use a soft, dry cloth to dust the speakers.
Avoid chemicals: Don't use harsh chemicals or cleaners.
Driver care: Be gentle when dusting the drivers to avoid damaging them.

Avoid Overdriving the Speakers

Overdriving the speakers can damage the drivers and shorten their lifespan. Be mindful of the volume level and avoid turning it up too high, especially with bass-heavy music. If you hear any distortion, turn the volume down immediately.

Tips for avoiding overdriving:

Volume level: Be mindful of the volume level and avoid turning it up too high.
Distortion: If you hear any distortion, turn the volume down immediately.
Amplifier matching: Ensure your amplifier is powerful enough to drive the speakers without clipping.

Periodic Inspection

Periodic inspection can help you catch any potential problems early on. Check the drivers, cabinets, and connections for any signs of damage or wear. If you notice any issues, address them promptly to prevent further damage.

Things to check:

Drivers: Look for any signs of damage or wear.
Cabinets: Check for scratches, dents, or water damage.
Connections: Ensure the speaker wires are securely connected.

Conclusion

The B&W 808 speakers are a true classic in the world of audio, offering exceptional sound quality, timeless design, and lasting durability. If you're looking to add a pair of these legendary speakers to your system, be sure to do your research and buy from a reputable source. With proper care and maintenance, your B&W 808s will provide years of listening pleasure. Happy hunting, guys, and enjoy the amazing sound!