Bowers & Wilkins 607 S3 Review: Unveiling Sonic Mastery

Bowers & Wilkins 607 S3 Review

Introduction to Bowers & Wilkins 607 S3

Meet the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S3, a pair of bookshelf speakers that have made quite a splash in the audio world. Known for their impressive mix of performance, design, and reliable features, these speakers are drawing attention from audiophiles and casual listeners alike. What makes them so special, you ask? Well, let’s dive into the basics.

The 607 S3 is the latest addition to Bowers & Wilkins’ renowned speaker line, launched in September 2023. With a price tag of $899 in the U.S., these speakers offer a combination of quality and affordability that’s hard to beat. Crafted meticulously, they promise not just sound, but an experience. Moreover, their compact size belies the rich, dynamic sound they deliver, making them perfect for smaller spaces yet capable of forming a key part of a larger audio setup.

Whether you’re upgrading your home sound system or beginning your journey into the world of high-end audio, the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S3 might just be the perfect choice to consider. Ready to know more? Stick around as we unfold the details of this noteworthy audio gear.

Design and Build Quality

When you first lay eyes on the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S3, you’re immediately struck by their sleek and modern design. These bookshelf speakers manage to fuse an elegant aesthetic with practical functionality, making them an excellent addition to almost any room setting. The dimensions of 300 mm in height, 165 mm in width, and 207 mm in depth enable them to fit snugly into small spaces, while maintaining a presence that feels anything but diminutive.

The 607 S3 is available in a variety of attractive finishes, including classic black, pristine white, and a striking oak. For those in the APAC region, there’s the exclusive red cherry option, which adds a splash of color and uniqueness. Weighing in at 4.65 kg each, these speakers strike a fine balance between sturdiness and maneuverability, making them versatile when it comes to mounting options or re-arranging your space for optimal sound experience.

Moving deeper into the technicalities, the build quality of these speakers showcases Bowers & Wilkins’ commitment to sonic excellence. The 607 S3 includes impressive drive units such as a 25mm Titanium Dome high-frequency tweeter and a 130mm Continuum cone bass/midrange driver. The titanium tweeter isn’t just for show; this decoupled double-dome design works to significantly reduce distortion and enhances dispersion, revealing the meticulous attention to detail given to the acoustics.

The frequency response of the 607 S3 ranges from -6dB at 40Hz to 33kHz, with an impressive harmonic distortion of less than 1% for 2nd and 3rd harmonics from 100Hz to 22kHz. This results in a sound that is both full-bodied and accurate, crucial for those who value tonal fidelity. The superior sensitivity of 84dB and a nominal impedance of 8Ω further adds to its commendable auditory capabilities, ensuring that these speakers can handle a wide range of audio inputs without breaking a sweat.

Moreover, it’s evident that thoughtful detailing extends into features like the Flowport™ technology, which minimizes turbulence and port noise. This means that even at higher volumes, the bass remains clear and powerful without risking distortion.

The acoustically transparent tweeter grille meshes, originally designed for Bowers & Wilkins’ more elite Signature models, finds its place in the 607 S3 too. It’s this infusion of premium features into a more compact, accessible form that truly elevates the design of these speakers.

It’s clear that the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S3 speakers are crafted not only to sound great but to look good doing it. For anyone considering a blend of elegance, practicality, and auditory performance, these speakers stand as a tempting proposition in the modern audio landscape.

Sound Quality and Performance

When it comes to sound quality, the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S3 speakers deliver an impressively dynamic performance that has caught the attention of enthusiasts and critics alike. These compact wonders are anything but shy when it comes to crafting soundscapes that are vibrant, immersive, and truly engaging.

The secret to their exceptional sound lies in the technical craftsmanship of their components. The incorporation of a 25mm Titanium Dome high-frequency tweeter, which is a decoupled double-dome design, plays a pivotal role. This design effectively reduces distortion and enhances sound dispersion, which means you can enjoy crisp highs without any unwanted harshness.

Complementing the tweeter is a 130mm Continuum cone bass/midrange driver. This driver seamlessly integrates sonic frequencies, providing a smooth transition that characterizes open and neutral performance. Essentially, the 607 S3 manages to capture the essence of voices and instruments with remarkable precision and transparency. It’s like having a mini-orchestra right in your living room, where every note is crafted with love and care.

Now, we can’t talk about impressive sound without addressing the bass. Thanks to the innovative Flowport™ technology, low-frequency performance is nothing short of robust and powerful. This technology minimizes turbulence and port noise, allowing for pure, clean bass even when you crank up the volume. You can feel the thump, but it’s never overpowering—instead, it’s perfectly balanced with the mids and highs.

The technical details further illustrate why these speakers are a standout. With a frequency response of 52Hz to 28kHz ±3dB and a frequency range of -6dB at 40Hz up to 33kHz, the 607 S3 ensures you’re not missing out on any auditory details. Whether it’s the subtle background notes in a classical piece or the intricate guitar riffs of a rock anthem, you’ll hear them all.

Additionally, the harmonic distortion remains remarkably low, staying under 1% for 2nd and 3rd harmonics from 100Hz to 22kHz, and less than 0.5% from 500Hz to 10kHz. This low distortion figure is a testament to the clarity and purity of the sound that the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S3 produces.

In summary, the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S3 speakers excel in sound quality and performance with their open, assertive soundstage and dynamic headroom. Whether you’re an audiophile hunting for the smallest audible nuances or a casual listener wanting a superior auditory experience, these speakers won’t disappoint. They vividly bring music to life, making each listening session a delightful journey.

Key Features and Innovations of the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S3

Welcome to the exciting world of the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S3. If you’re curious about what sets these speakers apart from the crowd, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive into the remarkable features and innovations that make these bookshelf speakers a beloved choice among audiophiles.

Drive Units that Dazzle

The heart of the 607 S3 is its exceptional combination of drive units. Featuring a 25mm Titanium Dome high-frequency tweeter, these speakers deliver crystal-clear highs and enhanced dispersion. The decoupled double-dome design specifically reduces distortion, allowing for a more natural and immersive listening experience.

Complementing the tweeter is the 130mm Continuum cone bass/midrange driver. This driver is designed to handle abrupt transitions smoothly, resulting in an open and neutral sound profile. It ensures that vocals and instruments come across with impressive precision and clarity, truly making your favorite tunes shine.

Impressive Frequency Response

The frequency response of the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S3 is another standout feature. With a range extending from 52Hz to 28kHz, and capability from -6dB at a remarkable 40Hz to 33kHz, these speakers can reproduce a wide gamut of sounds. From deep bass notes to the highest treble, the 607 S3 handles complexities with ease and finesse.

Innovative Sound Technology

Have you ever been bothered by distracting port noise in speakers? Enter the Flowport™ technology. This clever feature effectively minimizes turbulence and reduces unwanted port noise, ensuring that even at high volumes, the bass stays clean and powerful. It’s a feast for your ears, especially for those bass-heavy tracks you’d love to blast.

Tweeter Grille and Speaker Terminals

Innovation doesn’t stop at sound technology. The 607 S3 includes an acoustically transparent tweeter grille, originally crafted for the prestigious Signature models. This grille enhances both resolution and realism, immersing you in an auditory experience that’s strikingly lifelike.

Additionally, the speaker terminals are borrowed from the esteemed 700 Series range, which ensures a cleaner signal path. It provides an immaculate connection between your amplifier and the speakers, which audiophiles understand is crucial for maintaining sound purity.

Enthralling Performance

In terms of performance, these speakers are nothing short of spectacular. They are celebrated for their open and assertive sound, with a dynamic range that can accommodate various musical genres. They promise not just to deliver sound, but to elevate it, giving your music the stage it duly deserves.

Both elegant in design and mighty in sound, the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S3 are a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation. Whether you’re an audiophile or a casual listener, these speakers are sure to impress with their thoughtful craftsmanship and superior sound engineering.

Compatibility and Connectivity Options

When it comes to integrating new equipment into your existing setup, compatibility and connectivity are often at the forefront of considerations, especially for audio enthusiasts. The Bowers & Wilkins 607 S3 doesn’t disappoint in this regard. These speakers are designed with modern audiophiles in mind, ensuring they can easily become a part of your home audio system.

Wired Connections

The 607 S3 speakers primarily depend on traditional wired connections, providing sturdy and reliable connectivity. They feature high-quality speaker terminals, which are derived from the Bowers & Wilkins 700 Series. This means you’re getting a cleaner and more efficient signal path between the amplifier and the speakers. It’s a small yet significant detail for those who value clear and uninterrupted sound quality.

Since the speakers boast a nominal impedance of 8Ω, they should be compatible with a wide array of amplifiers. However, it is always a good idea to ensure your amplifier can comfortably drive speakers with these specifications to maintain sound quality at its finest.

Amplifier Pairing

The sensitivity of the 607 S3 is rated at 84dB, which indicates that a moderately powerful amplifier is recommended. Given this sensitivity level, partnering these speakers with an amplifier that can deliver a decent amount of power will ensure they shine across all types of music, from soft acoustic tunes to energetic rock hits.

Versatile Use Cases

Thanks to their well-engineered design and connection options, the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S3 are versatile enough to be used not just in a music playback setting but also in a home theater configuration. Their performance in delivering dynamic soundscapes makes them a great addition to any audio or entertainment setup.

No Wireless Connectivity

One thing to note is the absence of wireless connectivity options. While some modern speakers now offer Bluetooth or WiFi capabilities, the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S3 sticks to traditional wired connections. For purists who prefer the fidelity of a wired connection – often seen as a gold standard in audio quality – this might be more of a benefit than a drawback. However, if you’re looking for speakers with the freedom to connect wirelessly, this is something to be aware of.

Final Thoughts on Connectivity

Overall, the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S3 offers robust connectivity options for anyone seeking speakers that deliver exceptional sound quality without the fuss of complex setups. As long as you’re prepared to accommodate their traditional wired requirements and ensure compatible amplifier pairing, you’ll find these speakers to be a fitting and harmonious component of your home audio system.

Pros and Cons of the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S3

So, you’re considering the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S3 bookshelf speakers? Great choice! But let’s weigh the pros and cons so you can make an informed decision before committing to these charming audio gems.

Pros

• Stunning Sound Quality: One of the main selling points of the 607 S3 is its exceptional sound quality. Thanks to its Continuum cone bass/midrange driver, it offers an open and neutral performance. This means you’ll enjoy precise and transparent sound, whether you’re listening to your favorite podcast or rocking out to a live album.
• Compact and Stylish Design: Who says high-quality speakers can’t be stylish? These bookshelf speakers come in a compact size and in various finishes—black, white, oak, and even a red cherry finish exclusive to the APAC region. They blend seamlessly into any room decor.
• Advanced Features: Leveraging Bowers & Wilkins’ expertise, the 607 S3 includes an acoustically transparent tweeter grille for enhanced resolution. You’re also getting advanced Flowport™ technology for cleaner bass. All these elements contribute to an enriched listening experience.
• Dynamic Performance: Whether you’re in the mood for an energetic rock concert in your living room or a soothing classical piece, these speakers deliver. With their dynamic headroom and soundstaging capabilities, they accommodate all music genres with remarkable ease.

Cons

• Price Point: While the sound quality and features justify the cost for many, the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S3 is not a budget product. At $899 in the U.S., it might be more than some are willing to spend on bookshelf speakers. However, for audio enthusiasts, this price is often considered a worthy investment for the sound quality delivered.
• Sensitivity: With a sensitivity of 84dB, these speakers may require a bit more power than others to achieve higher volumes. While this isn’t necessarily a downside for everyone, it’s something to consider if you prefer low-output amplifiers.

Overall, the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S3 bookshelf speakers stand out in the market for their superior audio performance, aesthetic appeal, and innovative features. While the price and power requirements may not fit everyone’s needs, the value they deliver in terms of sound quality and technology makes them a worthwhile consideration. Ultimately, if you’re seeking speakers that bring excitement and clarity to your audio experience, you may find the 607 S3 to be just the perfect fit for your setup.

Conclusion: Is the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S3 Worth the Investment?

Diving into the world of audio equipment can sometimes be as overwhelming as it is exciting, especially when seeking something as specific as a quality pair of bookshelf speakers. With the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S3, you’re looking at a product that’s not only captured the attention of audiophiles but also introduced a notable combination of performance and aesthetic appeal. So, when it comes down to the question, “Is it worth the investment?” the answer is resoundingly positive, and here’s why.

Firstly, the 607 S3 offers rich and dynamic sound quality that is hard to overlook. For those who are passionate about music, this model’s sound performance provides significant value. With its Continuum cone bass/midrange driver, the sound produced is sharp, clear, and notably open, offering an authentic experience for a variety of music genres.

Aside from just the sound, the 607 S3 speakers are designed with a stunning attention to detail. They boast a compact, yet sophisticated design that can seamlessly blend into any home environment. Whether you prefer traditional black, elegant white, the warmth of oak, or the regional exclusivity of red cherry, these speakers provide aesthetic flexibility that complements their sonic prowess. This combination of form and function truly enhances their appeal.

In terms of innovation, Bowers & Wilkins doesn’t hold back. The use of advanced materials like the titanium dome tweeter, coupled with technologies like Flowport that minimize distortion and enhance clarity, means you’re investing in a product designed for optimum performance. Such features not only deliver pristine sound but also assure you of the longevity and durability associated with high-end audio equipment.

Whether you’re investing in the 607 S3 speakers as a standalone pair or adding them to a more extensive home theater setup, you’ll find their compatibility and versatility a compelling advantage. They work harmoniously with a range of amplifiers, which means you’re not starting from scratch if you already have a setup and are looking to upgrade only part of it.

While there’s always the consideration of cost versus benefit, the price point for the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S3—though reflective of a premium product—is competitive for its class. You’re not just purchasing speakers but an entire audio experience that can transform how you enjoy music and movies at home. The speakers’ design, paired with their performance capabilities, makes them a robust option that will likely satisfy both casual listeners and more discerning audiophiles.

In summary, for those who prioritize quality and are prepared to invest in their listening experience, the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S3 stands out as a worthwhile investment. It’s not merely about listening to music but elevating that experience to a whole new level, providing both delightful audio and aesthetic pleasure. So, if you’re on the lookout for speakers that deliver in both sound and style, the 607 S3 could very well be your next great purchase.