The 600 Series has always played a critical role in the Bowers &Wilkins portfolio – not least as the company’s second-longestcontinuously available series after the iconic 800 Series Diamond. Ata time when increasing numbers of listeners are demanding higherquality sound, either through vinyl or high- resolution streaming, the600 Series S3 represents the perfect first step to experiencing music playback designed to be respectful of the artist’s intent – making it theideal entry point into the Bowers & Wilkins brand.
The new range includes four distinct models: the floorstanding 603 S3, the 606 S3 stand mount, the 607 S3 bookshelf speaker plus the HTM6S3, a dedicated center channel for home theatre. Each model is available in a choice of finishes, including Oak, White or Black – with a fourth Cherry finish available in APAC markets only. A new FS-600 floorstand is available in Silver or Black to complete the range. All of the new models have been designed to work optimally togetherin various combinations as part of a 600 Series S3 Home TheaterSystem, integrating perfectly with the dedicated HTM6 S3 centerchannel and one of the existing ASW608 or ASW610 active subwoofers.
All-new Titanium Dome Tweeter adds refinement and resolution
Bowers & Wilkins develops and manufactures all key loudspeaker components in-house and cascades those innovative technologies downover time. This approach continues with the new 600 Series S3 models, allof which feature comprehensive changes to every aspect of their acousticperformance. Many of the new components are derived from the 700 Series S3 and are fitted into a redesigned and improved cabinet construction.
The most significant introduction to the new 600 Series S3 is an all-new tweeter dome technology, the Titanium Dome. The new tweeter isa two-part construction, with a very thin, light but rigid 25-micron main dome, braced by a second 30-micron titanium ring. This new design ishoused in a significantly elongated tube-loading system, inspired by thedesign recently introduced in the new 700 Series S3. The longer tube loading system reduces the resonant frequency behind the dome andleads to a more open sound that is less impacted by the cabinet that houses it. In addition, the new Titanium Dome benefits from a 700 Series S3-sized diaphragm mounting plate for better, more open dispersion andalso includes the very latest, more open tweeter grille design taken directly from the recently introduced 800 Series Signature. This combination of all these new technologies ensures that the newtweeter delivers a smoother, more refined sound without sacrificing resolution or detail.
Upgrades cascaded from the award-winning 700 Series range
Bowers & Wilkins’ proprietary Continuum Cones continue to featurethroughout the new 600 Series S3 range with the addition of morepowerful, lower distortion 700 Series S3 motor assemblies for midrange and bass/midrange drive units. The paper cone bass drivers in the 603 S3also now feature 703 S3 motor systems. Crossovers are also updatedwith the inclusion of high quality, upgraded bypass capacitors from the700 Series S3, delivering higher resolution and transparency. The 600 Series S3 cabinets have also received extensive improvements.The tweeter and main drive units are now mounted closer together,using intersecting trim rings to improve integration and stereo imaging. On the rear of the speaker, a new terminal tray, taken from the 700 Series S3, is joined by a 700 Series specification bass port, improving performance and creating a stiffer cabinet. The enclosure’s rigidity is further improved by upgrading the internal bracing to a higher standardof wood. Finally, the bottom of the 606 S3 and 607 S3 now includemetal threaded inserts so that the speakers can be more securely fixed to the top plate of the new FS-600 S3 stands.
Commenting on the launch, Dave Sheen, Brand President of Bowers &Wilkins said: “After nearly 30 years of continual evolution andimprovement, we believe that the latest 600 Series S3 continues to seta benchmark in its category. Cascading key technologies down fromour high-end loudspeaker ranges means everyone experiencing the new600 Series will enjoy performance that genuinely delivers on our promise of True Sound and brings the listener closer than ever to theartist’s intent.”
The new 600 Series S3 range will be available from August 23, 2023 from bowerswilkins.com as well as select retailers.
