The 600 Series has always played a critical role in the Bowers & Wilkins portfolio – not least as the company’s second-longest continuously available series after the iconic 800 Series Diamond. At a time when new generations of listeners are receptive to higher quality sound systems, experimenting with vinyl and high-resolution streaming, the 600 Series S3 represents a sensible - and aesthetically pleasing - first step to the Bowers & Wilkins brand.
The new range includes four distinct models: the floorstanding 603 S3, the 606 S3 standmount, the 607 S3 bookshelf speaker plus the HTM6 S3, a dedicated center channel for home theater. Each model is available in a choice of finishes, including 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 of the new models have been designed to work optimally together in various combinations as part of a 600 Series S3 Home Theatre System, integrating perfectly with the dedicated HTM6 S3 center channel and one of the existing ASW608 or ASW610 active subwoofers.
Bowers & Wilkins develops and manufactures all key loudspeaker components in-house and cascades those innovative technologies down over time. This approach continues with the new 600 Series S3 models, all of which feature comprehensive changes to every aspect of their acoustic performance. 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 an all-new tweeter dome technology, the Titanium Dome. The new tweeter is a two-part construction, with a very 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.
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 high quality, 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.
By developing all of these key technologies in-house, Bowers & Wilkins has been able to offer significant performance upgrades to all of its new range while maintaining outstanding value for money. Put simply, the 600 Series S3 continues the series' legacy in entry-level, high-performance loudspeakers.
Prices range from $1100/pair for the 606 S3 bookshelf speakers, to $2500/pair for the 603 S3 floorstanding speakers. The 600 Series S3 Theater 5.1 speaker package, featuring the 603 S3, 607 S3, HTM6 S3 plus the ASW610 active subwoofer, retails for $5199.
www.bowerswilkins.com
