Exhibiting the brand’s dedication to high-fidelity sound reproduction, the remarkable floor standing loudspeaker Bowers & Wilkins 702 S2 is a marvel. The 702 S2, which is the flagship model in B&W’s 700 series and falls between the more expensive 800 series and the more accessible 600 series, is priced at about $2,250 per unit. It has cutting-edge technologies from its more costly siblings which is because this speaker is an appealing choice for audiophiles looking for premium sound without the outrageous price tag. Here’s a detailed Bowers & Wilkins 702 S2 Review:
Design and Build Quality
With a solid body tweeter housing made from a single aluminum block, the 702 S2 boasts an eye-catching design that improves acoustic performance and reduces resonance. Three six-and-a-half-inch Aerofoil profile woofers, a six-inch Continuum cone midrange driver, and a one-inch decoupled carbon dome tweeter round out the speaker’s features. The three-way vented design guarantees deep bass and clear highs, providing a frequency response that spans from 28 Hz to 33 kHz. Along with its attractive appearance, the 29.4 Kg weight of the sturdy construction adds stability and dampens unwanted vibrations.
Audio Performance
The 702 S2 really excels in its audio performance. With its remarkable clarity and detail, the carbon dome tweeter raises the breakup threshold to 47 kHz for accurate imaging. The Continuum midrange driver improves the authenticity of instrument resonance and vocal reproduction, giving voices a more realistic tone. The three Aerofoil woofers work in harmony with the rear ported design to produce tight, controlled bass that doesn’t overwhelm the midrange or highs. Listeners will appreciate the speaker’s ability to reveal intricate details in well-recorded music and movies, making it a joy for critical listening sessions.
Listening Experience
The 702 S2 shows its versatility across genres in real-world listening tests. Rock and jazz fans will value the speaker’s punchy bass and clarity, while lovers of classical music will find its tonal balance and dynamic range especially pleasing. It’s important to keep in mind, though, that the 702 S2 is an extremely resolving speaker and that poorly recorded material may cause it to be harsh. This feature can be a benefit or a drawback, based on the preferences of the listener.
Iconic Solid Body Tweeter-on-Top Design
The classic Solid Body Tweeter-on-Top design of the Bowers & Wilkins 702 S2 is a symbol of B&W’s dedication to high-performance audio. The tweeter housing, made from a single aluminum block, provides great rigidity and reduces resonance. The 1-inch decoupled carbon dome tweeter delivers outstanding clarity and detail, enabling a more natural and expansive soundstage. Audiophiles looking for both style and substance will find the 702 S2 to be an exceptional option thanks to its unique design, which improves acoustic performance while also adding a unique aesthetic appeal.
Final Verdict
At about AUD 2,250 each, the Bowers & Wilkins 702 S2 is an excellent option for those who are audiophiles who want high-fidelity sound. Rich clarity and detail are produced by its 1-inch decoupled carbon dome tweeter in its Solid Body Tweeter-on-Top design, and deep, well-controlled bass is produced by its three 6.5-inch Aerofoil profile woofers. The frequency response of the 702 S2 is 28 Hz to 33 kHz, which makes it excellent for use in home theater and music applications.
In contrast to rival models such as the Focal Chorus 836V and the KEF R7, the 702 S2 is distinguished by its accuracy and acoustic properties. The sound signature of the Focal is warm, but it might not have as much detail as the 702 S2.The KEF R7’s unique Uni-Q driver array provides excellent imaging, but some users may prefer the traditional design and performance of the Bowers & Wilkins. Overall, the 702 S2 is a top contender for anyone looking to elevate their audio experience with a blend of advanced technology and elegant design.