B&W 607 S3

The B&W 607 S3 is a 2-way bookshelf speaker from Bowers & Wilkins, designed to fit into a compact hi-fi system while delivering a refined sound reproduction. It uses a bass-reflex loading, with a Flowport vent intended to optimise bass reproduction. It is bi-wiring and bi-amping compatible, allowing for more scalable amplifier configurations.

The central technical feature of this model is its 25 mm titanium dome tweeter, fully decoupled from the speaker cabinet. This decoupling limits the vibrations transmitted from the cabinet to the tweeter, thereby reducing mechanical interference that could colour the sound. In front of this tweeter, a grille has been developed to remain neutral and not alter the sound information transmitted. The 13 cm woofer uses a Continuum cone, a technology unique to B&W. The speaker is protected by a magnetic fabric grille.

In terms of measurements, the frequency response extends from 52 Hz to 28 kHz (± 3 dB), with a sensitivity of 84 dB/1W/1m. The nominal impedance is 8 ohms, with a minimum of 3 ohms, and harmonic distortion remains below 1% from 100 Hz to 22 kHz, and below 0.5% from 500 Hz to 10 kHz. Recommended amplification ranges from 30 to 100 W into 8 ohms, corresponding to mainstream integrated amplifiers or power amplifiers.

This speaker is aimed at a listener wanting a compact pair for a living room or office, without sacrificing sound precision, particularly for near-field listening or in a moderately sized room. Its bookshelf format requires the use of suitable stands or supports to make the most of its bass-reflex loading and soundstage.