Hi,
that is a really good sounding combination and I know from personal experience. It seems that we have come to a almost identical conclusion. I listen to a very similar set up: B&W 800 signature, MC1201 amps, C200 preamp, Accuphase DP-85 CD player, Kimber Select 3035 and 3038 speaker cables and Kimber Select 1136 interconnects. B&W, McIntosh & Kimber make a perfect marriage.
I listen to them without both grills (high and bass grill), it makes a slight difference. I cannot see on the picture well, but if you have not tried till now, maybe it is good to put the aluminium spikes (do not know the exact term for the spikes in the centre of the mid-driver) that came in a separate box from the speakers.
And if you intend to spend some more money, you can always do something with the AC.
I witnessed great improvement with using High-End AC power Cords & AC Conditioner.
Cheers and thanks for sharing
