When it comes to premium audio equipment, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W) has been a renowned name in the industry for decades. Their commitment to exceptional audio quality and meticulous craftsmanship has resulted in a range of outstanding products. In this article, we will delve into a detailed comparison between two of their popular bookshelf speakers: the B&W PM1 and the B&W 705 S2. By exploring their design, performance, and features, we aim to assist you in making an informed decision.
I. Design and Build Quality
Both the B&W PM1 and the 705 S2 embody Bowers & Wilkins’ signature aesthetics and attention to detail. The PM1 features a compact, sleek design with a curved cabinet made from dense, resonance-reducing materials. It exhibits a high level of craftsmanship, with a luxurious finish and beautifully integrated components.On the other hand, the 705 S2 showcases a more traditional box-like design but with refined elegance. It is constructed from high-quality materials, including B&W’s proprietary Continuum cone for the driver, ensuring rigidity and controlled vibrations. The attention to detail in both speakers is exceptional, with a focus on reducing unwanted resonance and distortion.
II. Sound Performance
A. B&W PM1: The PM1 is a two-way speaker system with a 5-inch mid/bass driver and a 1-inch tweeter. Despite its compact size, it delivers an impressively wide and detailed soundstage. The use of B&W’s Nautilus tube-loaded tweeter technology helps in achieving smooth and extended high-frequency response. The midrange is articulate, offering excellent vocal clarity, while the bass response is tight and controlled.
B. B&W 705 S2: The 705 S2 is a two-way speaker system featuring a 6.5-inch Continuum cone midrange/bass driver and a 1-inch carbon dome tweeter. This configuration results in a more authoritative sound with enhanced bass presence and depth. The Continuum cone technology provides a seamless midrange response, ensuring accurate reproduction of vocals and instruments. The tweeter delivers crisp and detailed highs without harshness.
III. Features and Technology
A. B&W PM1: The PM1 incorporates several cutting-edge technologies to optimize its performance. It features B&W’s Flowport technology for improved bass response, ensuring clean and extended low frequencies. The tweeter benefits from a decoupled design, isolating it from vibrations generated by the main driver. Additionally, the PM1 has bi-wirable terminals, allowing for separate connections to the woofer and tweeter.
B. B&W 705 S2: The 705 S2 boasts an array of advanced features. B&W’s Continuum cone technology, originally developed for their flagship speakers, minimizes distortion and provides exceptional midrange performance. The 705 S2 also utilizes the Aerofoil cone design borrowed from their high-end models, delivering precise and controlled bass. The innovative Solid Body Tweeter-on-Top design reduces unwanted vibrations and diffraction, resulting in improved high-frequency clarity.
IV. Placement and Compatibility
A. B&W PM1: The PM1’s compact size and rear-firing Flowport make it versatile in terms of placement options. It can be used as a standalone bookshelf speaker or incorporated into a surround sound system as front or rear channels. It is suitable for smaller rooms or as near-field monitors for personal listening setups. The PM1’s sensitivity of 84dB and impedance of 8 ohms make it compatible with a wide range of amplifiers.
B. B&W 705 S2: The 705 S2’s larger size and deeper bass response make it more suited for medium to larger rooms. It can be positioned on stands or shelves, with ample space around it for optimal sound dispersion. With a sensitivity of 88dB and a nominal impedance of 8 ohms, it pairs well with high-quality amplifiers capable of driving its power-hungry drivers.
V. Price and Value
In terms of price, the B&W PM1 and 705 S2 are positioned in different segments. The PM1, being the more compact and entry-level option, is generally more affordable, offering excellent value for its size and performance. On the other hand, the 705 S2 falls into a higher price bracket, reflecting its advanced technologies, superior sound quality, and refined build.
Conclusion
Both the B&W PM1 and the 705 S2 are exceptional bookshelf speakers that showcase Bowers & Wilkins’ commitment to audio excellence. The PM1’s compact size, refined design, and detailed soundstage make it an excellent choice for smaller rooms or personal listening setups. On the other hand, the 705 S2’s larger cabinet, enhanced bass response, and advanced technologies position it as a powerful performer for medium to larger rooms. Ultimately, the choice between the PM1 and the 705 S2 depends on your specific needs, budget, and room size, but either option is sure to deliver a remarkable audio experience.
