When it comes to bookshelf speakers, B&W (Bowers & Wilkins) is a renowned name known for its commitment to engineering excellence and uncompromising sound quality. In this detailed comparison, we will explore the features, performance, and nuances of two popular models: the B&W 607 and its successor, the B&W 607 S2. By examining their design, sound performance, build construction, and other critical aspects, we aim to provide valuable insights to help you make an informed decision when selecting the ideal bookshelf speaker for your audio setup.
Design and Build Quality
Both the B&W 607 and 607 S2 exhibit a compact and visually appealing design, making them suitable for various room sizes and aesthetics. Let’s delve into their individual design and build characteristics.The B&W 607 boasts a clean and minimalist design with a curved cabinet that not only enhances its visual appeal but also helps reduce internal standing waves for improved sound reproduction. It features a tweeter-on-top design, where the 1-inch decoupled Carbon Dome tweeter is positioned above the main enclosure. This configuration reduces unwanted cabinet diffraction and enhances overall tweeter performance. The 5-inch Continuum cone midrange/bass driver delivers accurate and articulate sound across the frequency range. The 607 is available in various finishes, allowing you to select one that suits your personal style.The B&W 607 S2 retains the overall design aesthetics of its predecessor while incorporating some noteworthy improvements. The tweeter-on-top design remains intact, providing enhanced imaging and dispersion characteristics. The cabinet construction incorporates internal bracing and damping materials, ensuring structural rigidity and minimizing unwanted resonances. The 607 S2 features a 1-inch Carbon Dome tweeter and a 5-inch Continuum cone midrange/bass driver, delivering accurate and dynamic sound reproduction. It is also available in multiple finishes, offering customization options to match your interior décor.
Sound Performance
The B&W 607 and 607 S2 excel in delivering impressive sound performance, with each model offering its unique sonic characteristics.The B&W 607 produces a refined and balanced sound signature. It offers a wide soundstage and precise imaging, allowing instruments and vocals to be positioned accurately within the stereo image. The speaker’s midrange is detailed and transparent, ensuring vocals are reproduced with remarkable clarity and realism. The bass response is tight and controlled, although its lower frequency extension is limited due to its compact size. Overall, the 607 delivers an engaging and enjoyable listening experience across various genres.The B&W 607 S2 builds upon the strengths of its predecessor, offering notable enhancements in sound reproduction. It delivers a more refined and extended frequency response, resulting in enhanced low-end performance. The midrange remains detailed and transparent, with improved imaging and separation. The tweeter’s performance benefits from the tweeter-on-top design, offering enhanced treble extension and smoother high-frequency response. The 607 S2’s overall sound signature is engaging, with a well-balanced tonal presentation and impressive dynamic range.
Build Quality and Durability
Both the B&W 607 and 607 S2 are meticulously crafted, showcasing B&W’s commitment to exceptional build quality and durability.The B&W 607 features a robust cabinet construction, employing high-quality materials and internal bracing to minimize resonances and vibrations. The result is a rigid and acoustically inert enclosure that allows the drivers to perform optimally, ensuring accurate sound reproduction. The speaker’s overall build quality guarantees durability and consistent performance over time.The B&W 607 S2 builds upon the solid foundation of its predecessor, incorporating improved cabinet bracing and damping materials. These enhancements further reduce internal resonances, resulting in cleaner and more transparent sound reproduction. The speaker’s sturdy construction ensures long-lasting performance and reliability, making it a worthwhile investment.
Comparison and Conclusion
In comparing the B&W 607 and 607 S2 bookshelf speakers, both models showcase B&W’s commitment to engineering excellence and deliver exceptional sound quality. The B&W 607 offers a refined and balanced sound signature, with precise imaging and an engaging listening experience. On the other hand, the B&W 607 S2 builds upon the strengths of its predecessor, offering enhanced low-end performance, improved imaging, and smoother high-frequency response.The choice between the B&W 607 and 607 S2 ultimately depends on your personal preferences, budget, and desired sonic characteristics. If you seek a compact bookshelf speaker that delivers impressive performance across various genres, the B&W 607 is a solid choice. However, if you desire an elevated listening experience with enhanced low-end extension, improved imaging, and refined high-frequency response, the B&W 607 S2 is a worthy upgrade.Consider factors such as your room size, preferred music genres, and budget when making your decision. Whichever model you choose, both the B&W 607 and 607 S2 will undoubtedly elevate your audio enjoyment, allowing you to experience music with exceptional clarity, detail, and immersive soundstage.
