[toronto416]

Has anyone had a chance to compare the the PB1i (or EB1i) to the similarly priced B&W 803d?

I have listened to the 803d with Bryston electronics (BCD-1, BP-26, 4B SST), and I was impressed.  The only PMC speaker on hand at the time was the FB1i as the PB1i had not yet arrived at the dealer.  I am hoping to compare the 803d to the more evenly matched PB1i in the same system soon.  My one concern with the PB1i is that the apparently legendary PMC made midrange driver is not used in the PB1i, but only starts with the EB1i and up.  I'm not sure if the EB1i can be auditioned in the GTA.  Regardless, the EB1i (like the 802d) may be too big for my listening room (and budget).

I am leaning towards Bryston electronics (BCD-1, BP-26 and either a 14B or 7B x 2, Torus 15) with either the 803d or possibly the PB1i or EB1i.  I will post my impressions after my next outing to audio dealer land. 

The search continues...

Regards,

Mark 

[nobel]

 I have got the Bcd1 bryston 26 and 4 bsst with Pmc ob1 and they are stunning. But at the end of the day depends on the cd that you are playing. Some are excellent and others are not which makes the sound ruthless.

[drummermitchell]

Bryston definately takes the dust off the bottle.

[klipschfan]

Midrange driver is the same for PB1i and EB1i. The Legendary PMC made midrange driver is in the IB2/MB2/BB5 models.