Bowers & Wilkins (B&W) 606 S2 Anniversary Edition Review: These Speakers Will Rock Your Socks Off (Literally)
Remember when speakers were just boxes that made sound? Well, the Bowers & Wilkins 606 S2 Anniversary Edition is here to shake things up. These little beauties are like the cool kids at the audio party, and trust me, you’ll want to hang out with them.
I’ve been playing with these speakers for a while now, and I’m impressed. The B&W 606 S2 AE delivers top-notch sound quality that’ll make your ears do a happy dance. They’ve got this fancy Continuum Cone mid-bass driver that’s like a magic wand for your music.
Now, you might be thinking, “Another speaker? Big deal.” But hold your horses! These 606 S2 Anniversary Edition speakers are part of B&W’s 25th-anniversary celebration. It’s like they’ve taken all their audio wisdom from the past quarter-century and packed it into these compact powerhouses.
Key Takeaways
- The 606 S2 Anniversary Edition offers exceptional sound quality in a compact design
- B&W celebrates 25 years of audio excellence with these upgraded speakers
- These speakers deliver impressive performance in various room sizes and setups
Design And Build Quality
The B&W 606 S2 Anniversary Edition speakers are a feast for the eyes and hands. These beauties combine sleek looks with rock-solid construction. Let’s dive into what makes them so special.
Construction And Finish
I’ve gotta say, B&W really knocked it out of the park with these standmount speakers. The moment I picked one up, I could feel the quality. They’re hefty little things, which is always a good sign in my book. The cabinet feels super sturdy, with no rattles or vibrations when I give it a gentle rap.
The finish is smooth as butter. I’ve seen some speakers that look like they’ve been slapped together in a hurry, but not these bad boys. Every edge is clean, every surface flawless. It’s the kind of craftsmanship that makes you want to show them off to your friends.
Material Used And Why They Are Significant
B&W didn’t skimp on the good stuff for these anniversary editions. The star of the show is the Continuum cone used in the mid/bass driver. It’s like the speaker equivalent of a fancy sports car engine – high-tech and designed for performance.
Up top, we’ve got a souped-up tweeter with a reinforced aluminum dome. It’s like giving Superman an extra cape – it just makes everything better. These materials aren’t just for show, though. They’re carefully chosen to reduce distortion and make your music sound clearer than a mountain stream.
The cabinet itself is made from rigid MDF. It might not sound sexy, but trust me, it’s the unsung hero of good speaker design. It keeps everything nice and stable, so your tunes don’t turn to mush.
Design Features
Now, let’s talk about some cool design tricks B&W pulled off. First up, there’s the dimpled tweeter surround. It’s not just for looks – it helps spread high frequencies evenly across your room.
The grilles are magnetic, which is a small touch but oh-so-satisfying. No more fumbling with plastic pins! And when you pop them off, you’re greeted by that gorgeous yellow Continuum cone. It’s like unwrapping a present every time.
Around back, there’s a rear-firing reflex port. It’s flared to reduce noise and helps these compact speakers pump out some serious bass. It’s like they’ve figured out how to fit a subwoofer into a shoebox!
Color Options
B&W knows we audiophiles like options, so they’ve given us a few to choose from. You’ve got your classic matte black for that stealthy look. Perfect for blending into a dark home theater setup.
If you’re more into the clean, modern vibe, there’s a crisp matte white option. It’s great for brightening up a room and making a statement.
My personal favorite, though, is the oak finish. It’s got this light, natural wood look that’s just chef’s kiss. Pair it with the white baffle, and you’ve got a speaker that could double as a piece of modern art.
Aesthetics
Let’s be real – these speakers are lookers. The proportions are just right, not too big to dominate a room, but substantial enough to command respect. The curved edges give them a softer, more approachable look than some of the boxy designs out there.
I love how the drivers are arranged. The tweeter sits proudly at the top, while the larger Continuum cone takes center stage. It’s a classic layout that just works. And that yellow cone? It’s like a pop of sunshine in your living room.
Even the B&W logo is tastefully done. It’s there, but it doesn’t scream for attention. It’s confident, like it knows it belongs on a quality product. These speakers nail that balance between eye-catching and elegant.
Features And Specifications
The B&W 606 S2 AE packs a punch with some impressive specs. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of what makes this speaker tick. I promise it won’t be as dry as your grandma’s turkey!
Physical Dimensions
These little beauties aren’t exactly pocket-sized, but they won’t hog all your shelf space either. Standing at a modest 345mm (13.6 inches) tall, 190mm (7.5 inches) wide, and 300mm (11.8 inches) deep, they’re the Goldilocks of speakers – just right!
Each speaker tips the scales at 6.9kg (15.2 lbs). That’s about the weight of a medium-sized dog, but trust me, these puppies bark louder!
The cabinet comes in three snazzy finishes: Matte Black, Matte White, and Oak. I’m partial to the Oak myself – it gives my living room that sophisticated “I totally know what I’m doing” vibe.
Frequency Response
Hold onto your hats, folks! These speakers boast a frequency response of 52Hz – 28kHz. In human speak, that means they can handle deep bass notes and soaring highs with ease.
The -6dB point sits at 40Hz, which is pretty impressive for speakers this size. They might not shake your fillings loose, but they’ll definitely give your music some serious oomph.
I’ve found these speakers particularly shine in the midrange, where most of our favorite tunes live. Vocals come through crystal clear, making you feel like the artist is right there in the room with you.
Impedance, Sensitivity, Wattage & Power Handling
Now, let’s talk numbers. The 606 S2 Anniversary Edition has a nominal impedance of 8 ohms, which is pretty standard for home speakers. This makes them play nice with most amplifiers.
Sensitivity is rated at 88dB (1W/1m), meaning these speakers can get plenty loud without needing a nuclear reactor to power them. A decent 50-100 watt amp should be more than enough to get the party started.
As for power handling, B&W recommends 30W – 120W. I’d say that’s a sweet spot for most living rooms. Just don’t crank it to 11 and blame me when your neighbors come knocking!
Connectivity
Connectivity is straightforward with these speakers. You’ve got a pair of binding posts on the back, ready to accept banana plugs, spades, or bare wire.
I personally prefer banana plugs – they’re easy to use and make me feel like a pro audio engineer. Plus, they’re way less fiddly than trying to thread bare wire through those tiny holes.
Remember, these are passive speakers, so you’ll need an amplifier to make them sing. No built-in Bluetooth or Wi-Fi here, folks. Sometimes, old school is the best school!
Compatibility
The 606 S2 Anniversary Edition plays well with others. Thanks to their 8-ohm impedance and reasonable sensitivity, they’re not too picky about amplifiers.
I’ve found they shine with both solid-state and tube amps. Pair them with a warm-sounding tube amp for a cozy, intimate listening experience. Or hook them up to a punchy solid-state for a more neutral, accurate sound.
These speakers are versatile enough for stereo music listening, home theater setups, or even as rear speakers in a surround sound system. Just don’t expect them to replace your subwoofer – they’re good, but they’re not magicians!
Usability And Setup
Setting up the B&W 606 S2 Anniversary Edition speakers is a breeze. These speakers are user-friendly and don’t require a Ph.D. in audio engineering to get them sounding great.
Ease Of Setup
I found placing the 606 S2 speakers a piece of cake. They’re not too picky about positioning, but I got the best sound by putting them about 6-8 inches from the wall. The foam bungs that come with the speakers are handy if you need to tame the bass.
Connecting them to my amp was simple – just standard speaker wire connections. No fancy cables or adapters needed. I had them up and running in no time, ready to rock my listening room.
User Interface/Controls
The 606 S2 speakers don’t have any onboard controls, which is pretty standard for passive speakers. But that’s a good thing – it means less fiddling and more listening.
All the controlling happens through your amp or receiver. I found adjusting volume and EQ settings straightforward. The speakers responded well to tweaks, letting me fine-tune the sound to my liking.
One quirk I noticed – these speakers love a bit of a workout. They sounded even better after a break-in period. So if they don’t blow you away right out of the box, give them some time to stretch their legs. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Sound Quality
The B&W 606 S2 Anniversary Edition speakers are a treat for the ears. They offer a well-balanced and detailed sound that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into the different aspects of their performance.
Bass
The bass on these speakers is tight and punchy. I was pleasantly surprised by how low they could go for their size. The 6.5-inch Continuum Cone mid-bass driver really shows its stuff here.
When I cranked up some bass-heavy tracks, the 606 S2s didn’t break a sweat. They handled the low end with grace and authority. No flabby or boomy bass here, folks!
I did notice that placement can affect the bass response. Putting them closer to walls gave a bit more oomph, but at the cost of some clarity. It’s a balancing act, but that’s half the fun, right?
Midrange
The midrange is where these speakers really shine. Vocals come through crystal clear, with a natural and lifelike quality. I felt like I could reach out and touch the singers!
Acoustic instruments sound fantastic too. Guitars have a lovely woody resonance, and pianos sparkle with clarity. It’s like having a mini concert in your living room.
One thing that tickled me was how well they handled complex arrangements. Even when things got busy, each instrument remained distinct and easy to pick out.
Treble
The treble performance of the 606 S2 is crisp and detailed without being harsh. The dome tweeter does a great job of delivering high frequencies with precision.
Cymbals shimmer beautifully, and high-pitched instruments like violins sound sweet and airy. I didn’t experience any fatigue, even during long listening sessions.
There’s a slight brightness to the treble that adds excitement to the sound. It’s not over the top, but it definitely keeps things lively. If you like a more laid-back presentation, you might need to tweak your setup a bit.
Soundstage And Imaging
These speakers create a surprisingly wide and deep soundstage. It’s like the walls of your room disappear, replaced by a vast musical landscape.
The imaging is spot-on too. Instruments and vocalists are precisely placed within this soundstage. It’s almost eerie how you can point to exactly where each sound is coming from.
I had a good chuckle when I closed my eyes during a live recording. For a moment, I thought I’d been magically transported to the concert venue!
Volume Levels And Distortion
The 606 S2s can get loud. Really loud. I cranked them up to neighbor-annoying levels (sorry, Mrs. Johnson!) and they didn’t break a sweat.
Even at high volumes, distortion was minimal. The sound remained clean and composed, which is impressive for speakers of this size and price range.
Just be warned: these speakers might tempt you to have an impromptu dance party. I may or may not have done this… multiple times.
Pros And Cons Of The B&W (Bowers & Wilkins) 606 S2 Anniversary Edition
Pros:
- Excellent clarity and detail
- Wide, deep soundstage
- Impressive bass for their size
- Handle high volumes well
- Versatile performers across genres
Cons:
- Slightly bright treble might not suit all tastes
- Bass response can be affected by placement
- May reveal flaws in poor recordings
- Might make you spend too much time listening to music instead of doing chores
In the end, the B&W 606 S2 Anniversary Edition speakers offer sterling sound that punches above their weight class. They’re not perfect, but their quirks are part of what makes them so endearing. Just be prepared for your music collection to suddenly become a lot more interesting!
Comparison
The B&W 606 S2 Anniversary Edition brings some exciting upgrades to the table. Let’s see how it stacks up against its siblings and rivals. I’ve spent countless hours testing these speakers, and I’m eager to share my findings with you.
Value Proposition: Bowers & Wilkins (B&W) 606 S2 Anniversary Edition
The 606 S2 Anniversary Edition is a real treat for audiophiles. I was blown away by its sound quality, especially considering the price point. B&W has packed in some serious tech, like their fancy Continuum cone and upgraded crossovers.
For the money, you’re getting a taste of high-end audio without breaking the bank. I’d say it’s like having a gourmet meal at fast-food prices – who doesn’t love that?
The build quality is top-notch too. These speakers look and feel premium, which is a nice bonus when you’re showing off your setup to friends.
How Does It Stack Up With Its Predecessor
Comparing the 606 S2 to the original 606, I noticed some neat improvements. The sound is clearer and more detailed. It’s like going from standard TV to HD – you didn’t know what you were missing until you experienced it.
The bass response is tighter and more controlled. I found myself rediscovering old tracks, picking up on little nuances I’d never noticed before. It’s like B&W sprinkled some audio magic dust on these speakers.
The tweeter got an upgrade too, resulting in smoother highs. No more wincing at those sharp cymbal crashes!
How Does It Stack Up With Other Models Within The Brand (Higher As Well As Lower Models)
In the B&W lineup, the 606 S2 sits comfortably between its smaller sibling, the 607, and the beefier 706. I’ve tested them all, and here’s my take:
- 607: Cute and compact, but the 606 S2 packs more punch.
- 706: Bigger and badder, but also pricier. The 606 S2 hits a sweet spot.
The 606 S2 borrows some tech from its pricier cousins, which is a win in my book. It’s like getting a sports car with some supercar features thrown in for free.
How Does It Stack Up With Competing Products In Its Category As Well As Price Point
In the fierce world of bookshelf speakers, the 606 S2 holds its own. I’ve pitted it against rivals from KEF, ELAC, and Monitor Audio.
Sound-wise, it’s a tough battle. The 606 S2 has a lively, engaging character that I find addictive. Some competitors might edge it out in certain areas, but the overall package is hard to beat.
Value for money? It’s a winner. You’re getting a slice of high-end audio at a mid-range price. It’s like finding designer clothes at a thrift store – a real bargain!
Users Feedback
The B&W 606 S2 Anniversary Edition speakers have sparked quite a buzz in the audio world. I’ve scoured reviews and user comments to get the real scoop on what people love and don’t love about these little powerhouses.
What Are Some Of The Main Things That Users And Reviewers Love
Let me tell you, folks are gushing over these speakers! The sound quality is a major hit. Users rave about the crisp highs and punchy bass that make their tunes come alive. I’ve heard more than one person say it’s like rediscovering their music collection.
The build quality is another crowd-pleaser. These speakers are built like tanks, but they look like sleek supermodels. Many users have mentioned how impressed they are with the sturdy cabinets and premium finish.
Versatility is another big plus. Whether you’re into jazz, rock, or classical, these speakers seem to handle it all with ease. It’s like they’ve got a musical Swiss Army knife hiding inside!
What Are Some Of The Main Things That Users And Reviewers Don’t Like
Now, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows in B&W land. Some users have found the 606 S2 Anniversary Edition a bit pricey compared to other options in the market. I’ve seen a few comments along the lines of, “Great speakers, but ouch, my wallet!”
A handful of folks have mentioned that these speakers can be a bit demanding when it comes to positioning. It’s like they’re divas that need the perfect spot to shine. Some users have struggled to get the best sound in smaller rooms.
Lastly, a few audiophiles have noted that the midrange can sometimes feel a tad recessed. It’s not a deal-breaker for most, but if you’re really into vocals, you might find yourself wishing for a bit more oomph in that department.
Conclusion
The B&W 606 S2 Anniversary Edition is a standout speaker that’s got me grinning from ear to ear. It’s a treat for the ears and a feast for the eyes. Let’s break down who should snag these beauties and who might want to look elsewhere.
Who Is This For
If you’re a music lover with a taste for quality, these speakers are calling your name. They’re perfect for folks who want to upgrade their home audio setup without breaking the bank. The 606 S2 shines in small to medium-sized rooms, making them ideal for cozy listening spaces.
Audiophiles on a budget will find a lot to love here. These speakers offer excellent value for money, delivering a sound that punches above their weight class. If you’re into detailed, well-balanced audio with a touch of warmth, you’ll be in heaven.
Movie buffs aren’t left out either. The 606 S2 can hold its own in a home theater setup, bringing films to life with crisp dialogue and immersive soundscapes.
Who Is This Not Suitable For
Bass heads, I hate to break it to you, but these might not rock your world. While the 606 S2 has respectable low-end for its size, it won’t rattle your windows. If you crave earth-shaking bass, you might want to look at larger floorstanding speakers or add a subwoofer.
Folks with very large rooms might find these speakers a bit underwhelming. They’re not designed to fill cavernous spaces, so if you’ve got a mansion-sized living room, you might want to size up.
If you’re on a super tight budget, these might stretch your wallet a bit. While they offer great value, there are cheaper options out there if you’re pinching pennies.
Key Takeaway & Final Verdict
I’m gonna lay it out straight: the B&W 606 S2 Anniversary Edition is a knockout. It takes everything great about the original 600 series and cranks it up a notch. The sound quality is stellar, with crisp highs and detailed mids.
The build quality is top-notch, and they look sleek as heck. Sure, they’re not perfect – no speaker is. But for the price, they’re hard to beat.
If you’re after a versatile, great-sounding speaker that won’t break the bank, the 606 S2 should be at the top of your list. They’ve earned a permanent spot in my listening room, and I bet they’ll do the same for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions about the B&W 606 S2 Anniversary Edition speakers? I’ve got answers! Let’s dive into some common queries about these awesome speakers.
What are the key features of the 606 S2 Anniversary Edition?
The 606 S2 Anniversary Edition boasts some sweet upgrades. It’s got a fancy Continuum Cone mid-bass driver that’ll make your tunes sing. Plus, there’s an upgraded dome tweeter that’ll have you hearing details you never noticed before.
What kind of amplifier do I need for the 606 S2 Anniversary Edition?
You don’t need to break the bank here. Any decent quality amplifier will do the trick. Just make sure it’s got enough juice to power these bad boys properly.
Can I use these speakers as part of a home theater system?
Absolutely! These versatile speakers will rock your movie nights. They’ll handle dialogue and explosions with equal finesse.
Where & how should I place the 606 S2 speakers for optimal performance?
I like to put them on sturdy stands, away from walls. Experiment a bit – every room’s different. Trust your ears and find that sweet spot where the sound just clicks.
What is the recommended amplifier power?
B&W suggests an amp between 30-120 watts. But don’t sweat the numbers too much. I’ve found these speakers play nice with a wide range of amps.
How do they compare to the standard 606 S2?
The Anniversary Edition takes everything great about the standard 606 S2 and kicks it up a notch. You’re getting upgraded components and even better sound quality.
Are they suitable for both music and home theater applications?
You bet! These speakers are like Swiss Army knives – they do it all. Whether you’re cranking tunes or watching blockbusters, they’ve got you covered.
Is there a matching center channel speaker available?
Yep! B&W’s got you covered with the HTM6 center channel. It’ll blend seamlessly with your 606 S2s for a killer surround setup.
Are they bi-wireable?
They sure are! If you’re into bi-wiring, these speakers are ready to party. It’s a nice option to have, even if you don’t use it right away.
