Bowers & Wilkins 705 S3 & HTM71 S3 Signature Review
Table of contents
Bowers & Wilkins pays homage to its founder John Bowers with the 700 Series Signature line, a tribute that began back with the Silver Signature speaker. These models are only released every few years and are produced in limited quantities. The 700 Series Signature line includes three new models: the 702 S3 Signature three-way floor-standing speaker, priced at $9,000 per pair; the two-way 705 S3 Signature stand-mount speaker at $4,500 per pair; and, for the first time, a center channel speaker, the HTM71 S3 Signature center-channel speaker, available at $3,300.
Specifications
In this review, we'll be focusing on the 705 S3 Signature stand-mount speaker as well as the HTM71 S3 Signature center-channel speaker. For those unfamiliar with Bowers & Wilkins' Signature line, it typically includes upgrades not found in the standard models. The new additions, including the 705 S3 Signature, benefit from technology trickling down from the 800 Series Signature models.
At the core of the 705 S3 Signature speakers is the 25mm (1-inch) carbon-dome tweeter, housed in its distinct bullet-shaped enclosure. Similar to the 705 S3, the tweeter is positioned in a separate housing. This solid aluminum housing is mounted on a decoupling system that helps reduce resonance. The Signature series improves upon this feature with a new, more open mesh grille, which is the same one used in the 800 series.
The visually appealing silver mid-range driver of the 705 S3 Signature is made from a material called Continuum, which maintains its shape better than the previous Kevlar drivers. This driver also incorporates the new Biometric Suspension system, originally borrowed from the 800 Series Diamond models, to reduce noise. The 705 S3 Signature three-way loudspeaker is complemented by a single 165mm (6.5-inch) Aerofoil Profile bass driver with upgraded drive-unit suspensions, which the company claims help improve bass clarity (more on this later).
In line with the broader Signature series upgrades, the 705 S3 speakers also feature improved midrange and tweeter sections in the crossover, incorporating the latest Mundorf capacitors. Although the terminal posts were updated on the standard 705 S3 speakers, the Signature series further refines this with brass-core terminal posts, designed for a cleaner signal flow.
The Bowers & Wilkins 705 S3 Signature speakers have a sensitivity rating of 88dB and offer a frequency response of 50Hz to 28kHz ±3dB. While the nominal impedance is stated as 8 ohms, it's worth noting that with B&W speakers, the impedance can dip. A capable amplifier or receiver is recommended for optimal performance.
The HTM71 S3 is the first center channel option in the Signature series and includes all the enhancements for that distinctive Signature sound. It features the same 25mm (1-inch) carbon-dome tweeter found in the other Signature models, along with a 130mm (5-inch) Continuum cone FST midrange driver and a pair of 130mm (5-inch) Aerofoil Profile bass cones. The HTM71 S3 offers a frequency response of 50Hz to 28kHz ±3dB, with a sensitivity of 89dB, and an impedance of 8 ohms.
Design
The Signature series is available in two cabinet finishes: Datuk Gloss and Midnight Blue Metallic. Personally, I think the design of these speakers is gorgeous, though everyone might have a different opinion. The front baffle of the speaker features a subtle curve, and the Midnight Blue Metallic finish boasts a beautiful gloss. All metal parts, except the terminals, are finished in satin black, with the tweeter and driver surrounds trimmed in a gold bezel. At the back of the speaker, you'll find the Signature nameplate as well as a rear port. While a magnetic grille is included to cover the drivers, the speaker's elegant design might tempt you to leave it uncovered.
The 705 S3 Signature speaker weighs approximately 21 lbs and measures 16.3-inches tall (including the tweeter) x 7.6-inches wide x 13.3-inches deep (including the grille and terminals). The HTM71 S3 Signature center channel weighs about 40 lbs and measures 9.2-inches tall (with the tweeter) x 24.7-inches wide x 14-inches deep (including the grille and terminals).
For those without a dedicated spot for bookshelf speakers, Bowers & Wilkins offers a compatible stand mount solution with the FS-700 S3, retailing at $799. Bowers & Wilkins provided a set of these stands, which pair seamlessly with the 705 S3 Signature speakers. The FS-700 S3 design allows it to thread directly into the bottom of the speakers using the provided bolts. The stands can be filled with a dampening material of your choice to minimize resonance. Both rubber feet and metal spikes are included to accommodate different floor surfaces.
Aesthetically, the FS-700 S3 stands come in two colors: gloss Black and Silver, each featuring a chrome piece down the middle for a sophisticated look. Each stand weighs about 13 lbs and measures 26 inches tall, 12.4 inches wide, and 11.4 inches deep.
Setup
In my room, I positioned the speakers approximately 22 inches away from the front wall and angled them slightly inward. Moving the speakers closer to the wall slightly boosts the low-end frequencies. For testing, I used a variety of components which includes a Trinnov Altitude16 powered by a Trinnov Amplitude16 for home theater listening paired with a Kaleidescape Strato C player, and both a Cambridge Audio CXA81 and a Hegel H120 for dedicated two-channel listening. Since the speakers were brand new out of the box, I enjoyed some background music for a few days before starting my testing.
Performance
When it comes to performance, I was a big fan of the 703 S3 speakers I tested at the end of last year, and the 705 S3 Signature certainly did not disappoint. The sound of the 705 S3 Signature was more neutral than I anticipated. Bowers & Wilkins speakers typically have a lively, slightly forward sound, so the neutrality of the 705 S3 Signature was somewhat surprising. While not entirely neutral, it is more balanced compared to other B&W speakers I've heard in the past. I found the sweet spot of these speakers to be between 80-95dB, but even at higher listening volumes, I didn't find the tweeter to be fatiguing.
With that said the 705 S3 Signature is an incredibly articulate, clear, and focused loudspeaker, particularly in the upper midrange and high frequencies. While listening to "Percusienfa" by Erik Mongrain, the speakers showcased the plucks of the guitar strings with remarkable precision and detail. Each note was rendered with a crispness that highlighted Mongrain's fingerstyle technique, allowing the subtle vibrations and textures of the strings to come through vividly.
The clarity extended to other instruments as well. The percussive elements had a tactile presence, with each beat resonating cleanly without any muddiness. The separation between the various components of the track was outstanding, creating a well-defined soundstage where every instrument could be distinctly heard.
Speaking of soundstage, the 705 S3 Signature speakers produce a wide and expansive soundstage, making the listening experience feel more open and immersive. The spatial accuracy allows the listener to easily pinpoint the location of each instrument, adding to the overall depth and realism of the performance.
The high level of clarity is also evident in the HTM71 S3 Signature Center channel, which delivers crisp and clean dialogue. From the detailed conversations in "Dune: Part Two" to Hans Zimmer's "Cornfield Chase" from "Interstellar," the HTM71 S3 captures every word with precision. The details of the dialogue, from whispering to shouting, are conveyed distinctly, so there's no need to strain to hear what the characters are saying. The HTM71 S3 also excels in rendering the dynamic range of Hans Zimmer's score.
During the "Cornfield Chase '' scene, you don't just hear the detail from the truck hitting the corn stalks, but also the layers of Zimmer's composition. The HTM71 S3 captures the rhythmic piano and the swelling strings, creating a sense of urgency and movement. The speakers' dynamic capabilities bring out the full range of the music, from the quietest notes to the most powerful peaks.
Regarding the low end, the 705 S3 Signature isn't designed to be a bass-heavy speaker. B&W rates this speaker to go down to around 50Hz, and it performs accordingly. It still reaches fairly deep on tracks like Leonard Cohen's "You Want It Darker," providing quick, textured bass that remains controlled and never boomy, even with its rear port. For everyday listening, the bass should be sufficient, but if you want more intense low frequencies, you can always add a subwoofer to your space.
Conclusion
When it comes to high-fidelity loudspeakers that capture the true essence of music, the Bowers & Wilkins 705 S3 Signature and HTM71 S3 Signature are standout performers. These speakers not only meet but often exceed the expectations of audiophiles. The improvements in the Signature series, including the upgraded crossovers and refined drivers, significantly elevate the overall performance.
While these speakers come with a high price tag—the 705 S3 Signature at $4,500 per pair and the HTM71 S3 Signature at $3,300—they provide excellent value for their cost and then some.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Gorgeous design and solid build quality | Limited low-end extension |
Detailed performance | Premium pricing |
Expansive soundstage | Requires adequate amplification for best performance |
FAQ
What distinguishes Bowers & Wilkins Signature models from their standard offerings?
Signature models are known for their no-holds-barred performance, unique and distinctive beauty, and special-edition exclusivity. Each model has its own unique identity while maintaining common threads with its predecessors
What inspired the creation of the Silver Signature speaker by Bowers & Wilkins?
The Silver Signature was created as a tribute to the company's founder, John Bowers, who passed away in 1987. It was designed to encapsulate his ideas and legacy, marking the 25th anniversary of the company in 1991.
Is it necessary to break in new speakers?
Yes, it's generally recommended to break in new Bowers & Wilkins speakers for optimal performance. The break-in period allows the components, particularly the drive units, to loosen up and reach their ideal operating characteristics. This process typically takes around 100-150 hours of normal use, depending on the model and how often you use the speakers.
Are Bowers & Wilkins speakers suitable for both music and movie listening?
Yes, Bowers & Wilkins products are generally versatile and suitable for both music listening and home cinema setups. Many of their speaker lines include options for surround sound and center channel speakers.
