Bowers & Wilkins has introduced its new 600 Series S3, the eighth generation of its popular loudspeaker range.
The new range includes four models: the floorstanding 603 S3, the 606 S3 standmount, the 607 S3 bookshelf speaker, plus the HTM6 S3, a dedicated centre channel for home theatre. Each model is available in Oak, White or Black with a fourth Cherry finish available in APAC markets only. A new FS-600 floor stand is available in silver or black to complete the range.
All the new models have been designed to work optimally together in various combinations as part of a 600 Series S3 home theatre system, integrating with the dedicated HTM6 S3 centre channel and one of the existing ASW608 or ASW610 active subwoofers. Many of the new components are derived from the 700 Series S3 and are fitted into a redesigned and improved cabinet construction.
The most significant introduction to the new 600 Series S3 is a new tweeter dome technology, the Titanium Dome. The new tweeter is a two-part construction with a thin, light but rigid 25-micron main dome, braced by a second 30-micron titanium ring. This new design is housed in a significantly elongated tube-loading system, inspired by the design recently introduced in the new 700 Series S3. The longer tube loading system reduces the resonant frequency behind the dome and leads to a more open sound that is less impacted by the cabinet that houses it.
In addition, the new Titanium Dome benefits from a 700 Series S3-sized diaphragm mounting plate for better, more open dispersion. It also includes the latest, more open tweeter grille design taken directly from the recently introduced 800 Series Signature. B&W says the combination of these new technologies ensures that the new tweeter delivers a smoother, more refined sound without sacrificing resolution or detail.
Bowers & Wilkins’ proprietary Continuum Cones continue to feature throughout the new 600 Series S3 range with the addition of more powerful, lower distortion 700 Series S3 motor assemblies for midrange and bass/midrange drive units. The paper cone bass drivers in the 603 S3 also now feature 703 S3 motor systems. Crossovers are also updated with the inclusion of upgraded bypass capacitors from the 700 Series S3, delivering higher resolution and transparency.
The 600 Series S3 cabinets have also received extensive improvements. The tweeter and main drive units are now mounted closer together, using intersecting trim rings to improve integration and stereo imaging. On the rear of the speaker, a new terminal tray, taken from the 700 Series S3, is joined by a 700 Series specification bass port, improving performance and creating a stiffer cabinet. The enclosure’s rigidity is further improved by upgrading the internal bracing to a higher standard of wood. Finally, the bottom of the 606 S3 and 607 S3 now include metal threaded inserts so that the speakers can be more securely fixed to the top plate of the new FS-600 S3 stands.
“After nearly 30 years of continual evolution and improvement, we believe that the latest 600 Series S3 continues to set a benchmark in its category,” says Dave Sheen, Brand President of Bowers & Wilkins. “ Cascading key technologies down from our high-end loudspeaker ranges means everyone experiencing the new 600 Series will enjoy performance that genuinely delivers on our promise of true sound and brings the listener closer than ever to the artist’s intent.”
The new 600 Series S3 range is now available from bowerswilkins.com and select retailers. The B&W 603 S3 floorstanding speakers are US$2,500/pr., 606 S3 standmount or bookshelf speaker for US$1,100/pr., 607 S3 cmopact standmount or bookshelf speaker for US$900/pr., HTM6 S3 centre channel for US$900/pr., FS-600 S3 floorstand for US$300/pr., ASW608 and ASW610 active subwoofers for US$599 and US$899, respectively, and the full 600 Series S3 5.1 theatre for US$5,199.