Bowers & Wilkins
Bowers & Wilkins 705 S2
Best bookshelf speakers for audiophiles seeking high-fidelity precision and elegant design.
Immerse yourself in unparalleled sound with the Bowers & Wilkins 705 S2 Signature stand-mount speakers, presented in a stunning and super-rare Datuk Gloss finish. These speakers feature an optimized crossover, a Continuum cone mid/bass driver, and a Carbon Dome tweeter housed in an acoustically inert Solid Body Tweeter-on-Top enclosure. Designed for exceptional clarity and precision, they deliver voices and instruments with remarkable purity. The compact design, combined with advanced acoustic technology, makes these speakers a perfect addition to any discerning audio setup, offering a truly immersive listening experience.
$1990.00
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Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
2702
/ 6832
#2702 in Speakers
Price vs Category Average
+36%
Above average
Dimensions
34013.4407162007.828511.230111.9
/ Height: mm ( in) cabinet only, mm ( in) including tweeter; Width: mm ( in); Depth: mm ( in) cabinet only, mm ( in) including grille and terminals
Who it's for
- Critical listeners prioritizing accurate soundstage and instrument separation
- Audiophiles seeking crystal-clear, fatigue-free high-frequency performance
- Design-conscious homeowners wanting a sophisticated, statement-making aesthetic
Who should skip it
- Bass enthusiasts requiring deep, room-filling low-end without a subwoofer
- Budget-focused buyers looking for high-value bookshelf alternatives
- Owners of entry-level amplifiers lacking sufficient power reserves
Performance breakdown
Imaging Precision
Tweeter-on-top design creates a remarkably holographic and pinpoint soundstage.
Midrange Clarity
Continuum cone technology renders vocals with exceptional transparency and natural texture.
Build Integrity
Acoustically inert cabinet construction minimizes resonance for a cleaner output.
Aesthetic Appeal
The rare Datuk Gloss finish offers a sophisticated, high-end visual presence.
Bass Extension
Compact footprint limits deep sub-bass reach compared to larger floorstanding models.
Amplification Sensitivity
Requires a quality amplifier to fully unlock the driver's dynamic potential.
Key Specs
Dimensions
Height: 340mm (13.4 in) cabinet only, 407mm (16 in) including tweeter; Width: 200mm (7.8 in); Depth: 285mm (11.2 in) cabinet only, 301mm (11.9 in) including grille and terminals
Net weight
9.3kg (20.5 lb)
Technical Features
Decoupled Carbon Dome tweeter, Solid Body Tweeter-on-Top, Continuum™ cone bass/ midrange, Flowport™
Drive units
1 x ø25mm (1 in) Carbon Dome high-frequency, 1 x ø165mm (6.5 in) Continuum cone bass / midrange
Frequency range
-6dB at 45Hz and 33kHz
Frequency response
50Hz - 28kHz ±3dB
Sensitivity
88dB spl (2.83Vrms, 1m)
Harmonic distortion
2nd and 3rd harmonics (90dB, 1m) <1% 100Hz - 22kHz, <0.5% 150Hz - 20kHz
Features
- Super rare Datuk Gloss finish
- Solid Body Tweeter housing for inertness
- Carbon Dome tweeters for pinpoint imaging
- Continuum cone for pure sound delivery
- Optimized crossovers for enhanced performance
- Compact stand-mount design
- Includes original packaging
What customers say
These premium bookshelf speakers earn high praise for their exceptional sound resolution and detailed clarity. The tweeter provides sparkling, fatigue-free highs, while the midrange driver delivers an articulate sound signature and precise stereo imaging, creating an engaging soundstage. Aesthetically, the build quality and cabinet finishes are considered stunning. The core sentiment centers on performance quality, though this fidelity requires significant investment. Listeners note the speakers demand high quality amplification to truly excel. While accuracy is paramount, some users find the bass lacks deep impact for certain music styles. Overall, they offer a high fidelity experience for those prioritizing resolution and willing to invest in capable supporting electronics.
Know before you buy
By housing the Carbon Dome tweeter in a separate, solid body enclosure on top of the cabinet, the design isolates the high-frequency driver from cabinet vibrations. This results in cleaner, more precise imaging and a more open soundstage.
Yes, the compact stand-mount design is ideal for smaller to medium-sized rooms. Despite their size, the 6.5-inch Continuum cone driver provides a full, articulate sound that doesn't require a massive footprint.
The 705 S2 has an 8Ω nominal impedance with a 3.7Ω minimum, meaning they are relatively easy to drive. A high-quality integrated amplifier or power amp with good current delivery will ensure you get the best performance, especially in the low-frequency range.
The Continuum cone is a proprietary material developed by Bowers & Wilkins to replace traditional Kevlar. It provides a more controlled, neutral, and transparent midrange, which helps voices and instruments sound more natural and less colored.
While they are classified as bookshelf speakers, they are designed to perform best on dedicated speaker stands. Placing them on stands allows the Flowport to function correctly and helps decouple the cabinet from surfaces that could cause unwanted resonance.
The Datuk Gloss is a premium, exotic wood veneer that offers a unique, high-end aesthetic compared to standard black or white finishes. It is a rare, visually striking option that makes these speakers a centerpiece in any room.
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$1990