For over 15 years, each new generation of Bowers & Wilkins’ Zeppelin has been a beautiful and unique design in its class – and, like every Bowers & Wilkins design, its shape is defined by acoustics. The new and completely redesigned Zeppelin - already benefiting from the company’s integration in the Sound United group of companies - is available in two finishes, one dark (midnight grey) and one light (pearl grey) and now includes switchable, dimmable ambient lighting to create a ‘halo’ lighting effect on to its metal pedestal stand.
The new Zeppelin continues to offer a complete stereo system in one component, featuring dedicated left and right speaker assemblies around a central, large subwoofer, all powered by 240W of amplification. Those premium components are mounted in an ultra-rigid, FEA-optimized enclosure that is carefully sculpted to ensure the best possible acoustic performance, with minimal material around the edges of each drive unit for outstanding stereo sound dispersion, intended to lead the category.
The new Zeppelin’s two Decoupled Double-Dome tweeters – originally featured in the award-winning 600 Anniversary Series – are mounted at the far edges of the enclosure and are fully isolated from vibrations running through the cabinet generated by other, larger drive units. This ensures a wide, spacious and highly accurate sound.
The tweeters are paired with 90mm midrange drivers using Bowers & Wilkins proprietary Fixed Suspension Transducer (FST) technology – found in all the company’s premium floor-standing speakers.
Finally, a new 150mm subwoofer is on hand to add deep, detailed and refined bass to the open, high-resolution sound of the combined system. Mounted centrally at the heart of the Zeppelin’s structure, its design is carefully optimized to avoid unwanted ‘rocking’ of the cabinet as it operates, resulting in a cleaner-sounding and more agile bass delivery.
By combining proven drivers with its new high-resolution streaming platform, the new Zeppelin offers improved reproduction from a wirelessly connected source or via a streaming service. Users will benefit from the updated AirPlay 2 and aptX Adaptive Bluetooth implementations - pleasing both iOS and Android users. Spotify fans can enjoy the convenience of Spotify Connect, ensuring both high-quality sound and convenient, easy operation.
And the new Zeppelin can also be controlled via the Bowers & Wilkins Music App, which gives instant access to a host of streaming services including Deezer, Last.fm, Qobuz, Soundcloud, TIDAL and TuneIn. More services are being added regularly.
Anyone considering an upgrade to this new Zeppelin or simply comparing it with rival designs from all major audio brands, will be glad to know that Bowers & Wilkins looked at critical areas and updated the electronics to support Bluetooth 5, more powerful DSP with Dynamic EQ. Just note that the USB-C connector found in the rear is for service only.
Adding to the built-in “smarts,” the new Zeppelin offers Alexa built-in - no need for any external components - while still allowing users to control all features with physical buttons on the top rear of the enclosure. As Bowers & Wilkins also reinforces, the new Zeppelin has been engineered to last. Its powerful digital ‘brain’ can be upgraded over time, with multi-room capability planned for introduction in early 2022. That will make the Zeppelin compatible with both other new Zeppelins in a multiroom environment or a multiroom system based on Bowers & Wilkins own Formation range of high-resolution wireless speakers.
The Zeppelin is available now from $799.00 USD.
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