Bowers and Wilkins 801 Series 80

Here’s your chance to own a piece of audio history. The B&W 801 Series 80 achieved legendary status for their incredible sound and were used in recording studios around the world. This special pair, consecutive serial #’s 1959-1960, have spent their entire life in the studio. Originally installed at the famed Sony Music Studios, this exact pair was used on the mixing and mastering of literally thousands of recordings. Since the studio’s closing, they have been in my personal smoke free studio. They still sound incredible and out perform many newer designs. Considering their age, they are in very good condition. There are a handful of scratches and chips on the cabinets and the grills and top fabric have a few stains, but there are no tears or runs. See the photos for detail, additional photos available on request.

In addition to the speakers, there is a spare set of mid range drivers in the original B&W Styrofoam packaging and a spare set of tweeters. I’ve never needed them, so I can only assume they work. Both mids measure 12 Ohm and tweeters measure 5.9 Ohm. I also have a full set of schematics and drawings.

Also included is a pair of stands that get the tweeters up to ear height when seated at a mixing desk.

The asking price is for all of the items. Will sell just the speakers, so please specify when making an offer.

Due to size and weight (100 lbs each), local pickup only, interested parties are welcome to have a listen.

While I've been a member of Audiogon for a number of years, this is my first listing, so feel free to PM with any questions or to set up a phone conversation, and thanks for looking!