Bowers and Wilkins 606 Review: Unleash Extraordinary Sound Quality

Bowers and Wilkins 606 Review

Introduction to Bowers and Wilkins 606 Speakers

Hello there! Are you familiar with the Bowers & Wilkins 606 speakers? If not, you’re in for a treat. These are the sort of speakers that make you want to rediscover your music collection. Renowned for their audio prowess, the 606 series has been a favorite among audiophiles and casual listeners alike.

B&W, as they are fondly referred to, has crafted these speakers to blend superb sound quality with an attractive, modern design. Standing proudly in living rooms around the world, the 606 speakers are known for their powerful and clear sound, especially for their size. They’re the type of speakers that easily become the centerpiece of a room—both visually and sonically.

Throughout iterations, from the original models to the latest versions, Bowers & Wilkins has consistently pushed the envelope, integrating advanced audio technology. Whether you’re a long-time fan of B&W or hearing about them for the first time, the 606 speakers are definitely worth your attention. Perfectly balancing form and function, they are designed to enhance your listening experience, one song at a time. Ready to dive deeper? Stay tuned to learn all about what makes these speakers a standout choice!

Design and Build Quality of Bowers & Wilkins 606 Speakers

When it comes to the Bowers & Wilkins 606 speakers, the design and build quality truly stand out, making them more than just an audio device—they are a statement piece for any room.

Elegant Design

The design of the 606 speakers is where form meets function in the most delightful way. Available in matte white or matte black finishes, these speakers offer a sleek and contemporary look that blends seamlessly into any décor. The matte finish adds a modern touch, although some might find it looks a bit understated in very bright light settings. Overall, the design is minimalist yet compelling, allowing the speakers to capture attention without overwhelming your space.

Robust Build Quality

Built with attention to detail, the 606 speakers exude high-quality craftsmanship. The cabinet measures 13.6 inches high, 7.4 inches wide, and 11.8 inches deep, ensuring a sturdy yet versatile size for various placement options. This combination offers stability to prevent unwanted resonances and vibrations, ensuring that all you hear is the music in its truest form. The construction materials are of premium quality, providing durability and longevity to keep your sound journey running smoothly.

Innovative Driver Technology

Central to the performance of these speakers is the cutting-edge driver technology. The 606 features a 6.5” Continuum midrange-bass driver designed to deliver precise and punchy audio performance. The latest 606 S3 model sees advancements with the introduction of a 1-inch titanium dome tweeter, which replaces the previous aluminum version. This change is aimed at producing a smoother and more refined sound without losing resolution, offering an exciting listening experience whether you’re enjoying a powerful orchestral piece or a soft acoustic recording.

Attention to Acoustic Detail

Bowers & Wilkins have carefully selected materials and designs borrowed from their more expensive 700 and 800 series to enhance the acoustic detail of the 606 speakers. The new tweeter comes equipped with advanced mounting hardware and a tweeter grill inspired by these series, ensuring that you experience sound clarity and precision usually reserved for higher-end models.

Versatile Placement

With their compact dimensions, these speakers are as versatile as they are functional. Whether you’re placing them on a stand or a shelf, the 606 speakers can adapt to various environments without compromising on audio quality. To get the best performance, it’s recommended to place them with their rear panels about 22 inches away from the wall.

In summary, the Bowers & Wilkins 606 speakers boast an impressive design and build quality. From their aesthetic elegance, robust construction, and innovative driver technology, these speakers are crafted to please both the eyes and ears. Whether you are an audiophile or a casual listener, you’ll appreciate the effort put into making these speakers not just a tool for listening, but a cherished part of your home.

Sound Performance and Audio Features

The Bowers and Wilkins 606 speakers have made quite a splash in the world of audio, thanks to their exceptional sound performance and diverse range of audio features. Let’s dive into what makes these speakers stand out from the crowd.

Impressive Frequency Response

One of the 606’s key attractions is its delightful frequency response, clocking in at 52Hz-28kHz, ±3dB. This wide range ensures you enjoy everything from deep, resonant bass to the delicate intricacies of higher notes. Whether it’s an epic movie score or your favorite indie playlist, these speakers handle it all with grace and precision.

Bass That Packs a Punch

Smaller-sized speakers often struggle with bass, but not the 606. These gems deliver punchy and dynamic bass that defies their size, often outperforming even more expensive models like the 705 S2. You’ll be surprised at the depth and quantity of bass that these speakers pump out, providing a robust foundation to any track or movie.

Energetic and Dynamic Performance

Listening to the 606 is a lively experience. The speakers are praised for their energetic performance, which brings every note to life. The dynamic range is excellent, offering good imaging where instruments are well delineated on an impressive soundstage. It’s almost as if the performers have stepped right into your room.

Refined Highs and the Evolution of Tweeters

In earlier models, critiques were made regarding the high-end response, citing eager highs that needed strategic amplifier pairing. Particularly, the 606 S2 models were sometimes noted for excessive sibilance, which could make certain highs sound artificial, especially with lower-quality recordings.

Enter the 606 S3 model—a game changer with its 1-inch titanium dome tweeter. This innovation promises a smoother, more refined sound, alleviating the previous concerns about high-frequency harshness. By integrating proprietary technology from the prestigious 700 and 800 series, the newest model elevates its high-frequency performance.

Low Distortion for a Clearer Sound

With less than 1% harmonic distortion from 100Hz to 22kHz at an output level of 90dB at 1m distance, clarity is a given. Whether you’re listening quietly or cranking up the volume for a party, these speakers maintain a crystal-clear sound that’s hard to match.

The Importance of Amplifier Pairing

While the 606 series speakers are powerhouses, their full potential shines when paired with the right amplifier. The nominal impedance is 8 ohms, with a minimum impedance of 3.7 ohms and a sensitivity of 88dB/2.83V/m. With the recommended amplifier power range of 30W – 120W into 8 ohms on an unclipped programme, the 606 speakers require a matching amplifier to deliver optimal performance.

In summary, the Bowers and Wilkins 606 speakers are highly regarded for their sound performance. They bring music to life with their broad frequency range, impactful bass, and refined treble. While choosing your amplifier wisely and setting the speakers up correctly is crucial, the 606 series offers an engaging and immersive listening experience that you’ll want to revisit again and again.

Connectivity and Compatibility

When it comes to speakers, finding the right connection methods can be quite a trick. Fortunately, the Bowers & Wilkins 606 speakers strike a good balance between simplicity and high-quality connectivity. Let’s dive right into what makes these speakers a joy to hook up and use without turning it into a science experiment.

Wired Connections

Primarily, the Bowers & Wilkins 606 speakers are designed for wired connections, which is a nod to the audiophile belief that nothing beats the reliability and sound quality of a cable. They come equipped with bi-wire binding posts, allowing you to bi-wire or bi-amp the speakers if you desire. For those not familiar with bi-wiring, it’s essentially a way to slightly improve sound quality by using separate cables for the high and low frequencies. And bi-amping? That’s taking things a step further by using two separate amplifiers, giving you precise control over your sound. However, for most users, a simple and standard speaker wire setup will work fantastically well.

Amplifier Pairing

The 606 speakers are compatible with a range of amplifiers, but there are recommendations to follow for the best experience. They can handle amplifiers with power output ranges from 30W to 120W into 8 ohms, offering flexibility in terms of pairing them with various amp setups. If you’ve got a modified or configured home audio system, rest assured, you have room to play around.

Matching the 606 speakers with the right amplifier can enhance their performance. It’s worth noting that they work fabulous with high-quality amplifiers that can balance their eager high-end response, providing a smoother listening experience. If you’ve had the chance to upgrade your amplifier, you might just see the Bowers & Wilkins 606 speakers shining with packed performance and clarity.

Placement and Setup

The positioning of the Bowers & Wilkins 606 speakers could impact how they connect with your existing setup—this is where they might demand a bit of attention. Their design allows for some flexibility, but for optimal sound, it’s suggested to place them about 22 inches from the front wall. Doing this helps you avoid unnecessary bass boominess, a common issue with poorly placed bookshelf speakers. Additionally, a toe-in slightly forming an equilateral triangle with your listening position is advisable. This simple tweak can truly allow you to feel the speaker’s full spectrum of audio capabilities.

Compatibility

Regarding compatibility, the Bowers & Wilkins 606 speakers are wonderfully versatile. They’re forgiving and can adapt well with both modern and vintage audio setups, ensuring that they integrate smoothly. Whether you’re looking to enhance your vinyl collection or plug into a state-of-the-art digital streaming setup, the 606 speakers are more than capable partners.

Overall, connecting the Bowers & Wilkins 606 speakers is straightforward, especially if you’re sticking to classic wired options. Of course, there’s some finesse required to get the best sound, but that’s part of the fun, isn’t it? Exploring and fine-tuning your audio equipment with speakers as competent as these can be a delightful adventure!

Installation and Setup Guide for Bowers & Wilkins 606 Speakers

Getting your Bowers & Wilkins 606 speakers sounding their best is an exciting yet meticulous process. The key to a harmonious listening experience lies in the careful setup and installation of these highly-regarded speakers. Let me walk you through it in a friendly, easy-to-understand way!

Unboxing and Initial Setup

When you first unbox your 606 speakers, you will notice their elegant design. Take a moment to admire their build before you begin setting them up. Make sure you have the necessary accessories, like speaker cables, beforehand. The speakers come in a matte white or black finish, so think about which color best suits your space!

Optimal Placement

Positioning your speakers correctly can make a world of a difference. The recommended approach is to create an equilateral triangle with your listening position and the two speakers. Try to position the rear panels of the speakers about 22 inches from the front wall to allow room for the sound to breathe and for optimal bass response. A slight angle, known as “toe-in,” aiming the speakers toward your main listening spot, will improve the soundstage and imaging.

Speaker Stand and Height

For the best listening experience, consider using speaker stands. These should ideally be at a height that aligns the tweeters with your ear level when seated. This helps the sound waves reach you more directly and ensures that the audio is both natural and immersive. If stands aren’t possible, ensure whatever surface the speakers sit on is stable and free from vibrations.

Amplifier and Cable Connection

Now, let’s talk about the connections. The Bowers & Wilkins 606 speakers thrive on a recommended amplifier power of 30W to 120W into 8 ohms. When hooking up your amplifier, ensure the speaker cables are connected properly to avoid phase issues. Having cables with a maximum impedance of 0.1 ohms will ensure optimal performance.

Fine-Tuning the Sound

Depending on the acoustics of the room and your specific tastes, some fine-tuning might be necessary. Play some of your favorite tracks and adjust settings such as the amplifier’s bass and treble controls. Remember, the Bowers & Wilkins 606 models are known for their dynamic range and articulate highs, so feel free to tweak until it suits your ears.

Room Acoustics Consideration

Your room’s acoustics can greatly influence the sound. Start by ensuring your room has adequate furniture and sound dampeners like rugs or curtains to minimize echoes. The placement of these can affect the clarity and warmth of your audio. Experiment with positioning until you find that sweet spot.

Final Thoughts

Setting up your Bowers & Wilkins 606 speakers is more than just about plugging them in. It involves creating a space where the nuanced details and powerful bass of your music can truly shine. Take your time, enjoy the process, and soon, you’ll be rewarded with an audio experience that’s as thrilling as the music itself!

Pros and Cons of Bowers and Wilkins 606

Alright, let’s dive straight into the juicy bits about the Bowers and Wilkins 606 speakers—the pros and cons! Get comfy because we’re going to chat through what makes these speakers stand out and where they might not quite hit the mark. If you’re thinking about diving into the world of high-fidelity audio with these bad boys, you’ll want to stick around.

Pros

• Exceptional Sound Quality: The B&W 606 speakers pack a serious punch when it comes to sound. They boast a clean and extended top end, with a midrange that’s both detailed and airy. Plus, they deliver a surprising amount of bass—it’s punchy, dynamic, and can even rival more expensive models like the 705 S2 in terms of depth.
• Updated Features: With the 606 S3, B&W has introduced a 1-inch titanium dome tweeter, borrowed tech from the pricier 700 and 800 series, for a smoother, more refined listening experience.
• Nice Aesthetic Choices: Whether you prefer matte black or matte white, these speakers can blend well into any home environment and add a touch of elegance.
• Compatibility: With an 8-ohm nominal impedance and a sensitivity of 88 dB, these speakers are quite versatile in terms of amplifier pairing, allowing a range of setups for different listener preferences.

Cons

• Eager High-End Response: While the sound quality is generally excellent, some users have noted that the high-end response can feel a bit eager, potentially requiring meticulous pairing with the right amplifier.
• Requires Optimal Placement: To get the best performance, the placement of the speakers needs some attention. Ideally, you’ll want them about 22 inches from the wall and set up in a triangular formation with your listening position—so some might find it a bit finicky if space is limited.
• Aesthetic Shortcomings in Certain Lights: Even though they offer a sleek finish, the look could seem a bit cheap under bright light for some users, especially with the new matte options.

So, there you have it! The Bowers and Wilkins 606 speakers offer fantastic audio performance with some aesthetic perks, especially if you’re mindful of how to set them up correctly. But like any piece of tech, they have their quirks. If you can get past those little bumps, you’re in for an impressive audio journey. Happy listening!

Final Verdict and Recommendation

If you’re on the hunt for a pair of speakers that marry sleek design with exceptional sound quality, the Bowers & Wilkins 606 definitely deserves your attention. These speakers have garnered praise from audio enthusiasts and casual listeners alike, and it’s easy to see why.

So, what’s the final verdict?

The Bowers & Wilkins 606 speakers excel in several key areas. They boast an enviable audio performance characterized by a detailed and airy midrange, a clean top end, and impressive bass capabilities. Whether you’re a veteran audiophile or simply someone who wants to elevate their home sound system, the 606 speakers are likely to meet — if not exceed — your expectations for speakers in their price range.

What makes the 606 stand out?

The series is known for its thoughtful evolution, with the latest model, the 606 S3, introducing a 1-inch titanium dome tweeter. This transition from aluminum to titanium has brought about a smoother, more refined sonic delivery without losing the crispness and vibrant detail that Bowers & Wilkins are known for. Not to mention, the technology trickled down from their more premium 700 and 800 series does add a layer of finesse to the sound reproduction.

But, are they the perfect choice for everyone?

While the Bowers & Wilkins 606 offers substantial performance for their size and cost, they’re not entirely without quirks. Some users have reported an enthusiastic high-end audio response that can require precise amplifier pairing to avoid harshness, especially in less than stellar recordings. It’s a small trade-off for the clarity and dynamism they provide, but it’s something to consider if you’re particular about balanced tonality in all scenarios.

Recommendation: Who should buy these?

If you’re ready to take your audio experience up a notch and appreciate nuanced yet powerful sound, the 606s are a solid choice. They are ideal for small to medium-sized rooms and for those who enjoy a vibrant listening occasion that does justice to all music genres. As they work best with specific setups, a bit of tinkering with their positioning and the right amplifier will maximize their potential, offering you a more personalized listening experience.

In summary, if soundstage dynamics and a blend of punch and detail speak to your listening heart, look no further. The Bowers & Wilkins 606, particularly the upgraded S3 model, comes highly recommended. They stand as a testament to innovative sound engineering, ready to breathe new life into how you experience music and media in your space.