Revitalizing a multi-award-winning range of loudspeakers already hailed as the ultimate in their category poses an intriguing challenge. Bowers & Wilkins, the renowned purveyor of premium audio, is embarking on a journey to enhance their legacy by introducing the Bowers & Wilkins 600 Series S3. This latest iteration, marking the eighth generation, builds upon thirty years of establishing a benchmark for attainable yet high-performance loudspeakers.
The 600 Series has held a pivotal role within Bowers & Wilkins’ portfolio, notably emerging as the second-longest continuously available series after the iconic 800 Series Diamond. As more listeners seek elevated sound quality, whether through vinyl or high-resolution streaming, the 600 Series S3 emerges as a gateway to experiencing the authentic essence of an artist’s creation – making it an optimal introduction to the world of Bowers & Wilkins.
This innovative range features four distinct models: the floor-standing 603 S3, the compact 606 S3 stand mount, the space-efficient 607 S3 bookshelf speaker, and the HTM6 S3, a dedicated centre channel catering to home theatre setups. Each model boasts a selection of finishes including Oak, White, or Black, with an additional Cherry option exclusive to APAC markets. To complete the lineup, the new FS-600 floor stand is available in Silver or Black.
The synergy among the new models facilitates seamless integration into a 600 Series S3 Home Theatre System. This harmonious setup blends flawlessly with the specialized HTM6 S3 centre channel and the existing ASW608 or ASW610 active subwoofers.
A Keystone Innovation: Titanium Dome Tweeter
Bowers & Wilkins has long championed an approach of in-house development and manufacturing for crucial loudspeaker components, allowing the transfer of innovative technologies over time. This philosophy extends to the new Bowers & Wilkins 600 Series S3 models, which embody extensive enhancements across their acoustic performances. Many of these enhancements are inspired by the 700 Series S3 and find their place within a reimagined and refined cabinet design.
At the core of the new Bowers & Wilkins 600 Series S3 lies the groundbreaking Titanium Dome tweeter technology. This dual-part tweeter features a remarkably thin yet rigid 25-micron primary dome, buttressed by a secondary 30-micron titanium ring. Housed within an elongated tube-loading system – inspired by the successful design of the new 700 Series S3 – this elongated system diminishes the resonant frequency behind the dome, cultivating a more open sound quality that remains less influenced by the enclosing cabinet.
Moreover, the novel Titanium Dome benefits from a diaphragm mounting plate of 700 Series S3 proportions, enhancing dispersion and embracing the latest open tweeter grille design from the recently unveiled 800 Series Signature.
Collectively, these pioneering technologies culminate in a tweeter that delivers heightened smoothness and refinement, all while preserving intricacy and nuance.
Elevating from the Award-Winning 700 Series
Bowers & Wilkins upholds its proprietary Continuum Cones across the new 600 Series S3 range, amplified by the integration of more potent, lower-distortion 700 Series S3 motor assemblies for midrange and bass/midrange drive units. Notably, the 603 S3 is now endowed with 703 S3 motor systems for its paper cone bass drivers. The crossovers have also transformed, encompassing top-tier, upgraded bypass capacitors from the 700 Series S3 to confer heightened resolution and transparency.
Extensive enhancements extend to the cabinets of the Bowers & Wilkins 600 Series S3. The proximity of the tweeter and main drive units is optimized, facilitated by intersecting trim rings that enrich integration and stereo imaging. On the rear, a novel terminal tray akin to the 700 Series S3 is joined by a bass port aligned with the 700 Series specifications, enhancing performance and bolstering cabinet rigidity. Refinements continue with upgraded internal bracing, elevating the enclosure’s structural integrity. Finally, threaded metal inserts adorn the bottom of the 606 S3 and 607 S3, ensuring secure attachment to the top plate of the new FS-600 S3 stands.
Bowers & Wilkins’ commitment to in-house development empowers them to provide substantial performance enhancements throughout the new range, all while delivering exceptional value. The Bowers & Wilkins 600 Series S3 stands as a testament to superior quality components and technologies, outperforming rival offerings, and sustaining the legacy of the 600 Series as the touchstone for accessible yet high-performance loudspeakers. It serves as an ideal introduction to the world of Bowers & Wilkins sound, embracing music enthusiasts worldwide.
Dave Sheen, Brand President of Bowers & Wilkins, commented on the launch, stating, “With nearly three decades of continuous evolution and refinement, we are confident that the latest 600 Series S3 sets a new benchmark in its category. By funnelling key technologies from our high-end loudspeaker ranges, the new Bowers & Wilkins 600 Series promises True Sound, bringing listeners closer than ever to the artist’s original intent.”
The new 600 Series S3 range will be accessible from bowerswilkins.com and select retail partners. The 603 S3 is priced at €2300 per pair and it comes in Black, Oak, and White colour options. The 606 S3 is priced at €1000 per pair and you can choose from Black, Oak, or White. For the 607 S3, the price is set at €800 per pair, with the colour choices including Black, Oak, and White.
The HTM6 S3 centre channel is priced at €750 and it comes in Black, Oak, and White options. The FS-600 S3 floor stand is priced at €300 per pair and you can choose between Black and Silver finishes.
