The full review
B&W 684 S2 Floorstanding Loudspeaker Review
Introduction
After extensive deliberation and numerous comparisons among various speakers, I finally settled on the Bowers & Wilkins 684 S2 Tower Speaker. As someone who owns a plethora of audio gear, ranging from budget finds to high-end gems, I felt it was time to write an honest, detailed review of the B&W 684 S2. This review is aimed at audiophiles and casual listeners alike, offering a balanced insight into the strengths and weaknesses of the product.
Initial Impressions
Upon unboxing the B&W 684 S2, my first impression was the sheer size of these speakers. They are undeniably big, but if you're eyeing tower speakers, you probably already expect substantial physical dimensions. In terms of design, the 684 S2 falls somewhere between functional and aesthetically pleasing. The finish is sleek but not overly flashy, making it a good fit for various home decor styles.
Build Quality
The build quality of the B&W 684 S2 is robust. Despite being in the mid-range price bracket, these speakers don’t give off any sense of being "cheap." They feel solid, and the attention to detail in construction is apparent. Bowers & Wilkins didn't cut corners here, providing a product that should stand the test of time.
Sound Quality
Sound is where the Bowers & Wilkins 684 S2 truly shines. Compared to the most expensive tower speakers B&W makes, these aren't the crème de la crème, yet they perform exceptionally well for their price. Let’s break down the sound quality into several components:
Highs and Mid-Range
The highs are clear and well-articulated without being fatiguing. Mid-range performance is also commendable, offering a pleasing balance that’s neither too forward nor recessed. There is a noticeable articulation and separation that makes listening to complex pieces a joyful experience.
Bass
The bass is punchy and deep but doesn’t overshadow the other frequencies, giving you a well-rounded listening experience. While it may not reach the depths of some high-end models, it is certainly sufficient for most users.
Comparison with Higher-End Models
Owning the significantly pricier B&W 804D allows me to draw some interesting comparisons. The 804D certainly offers better sonic separation, crisper highs, and deeper bass. However, do they sound 10 times better to match their price? Not really. The differences, although noticeable, are not as overwhelming as the price gap might suggest. The 804D is more beautiful and has a visual appeal that might justify the additional cost to some, but in terms of pure sound, the 684 S2 impresses mightily for its price.
Price vs. Performance
Priced over a grand for a pair, these speakers aren’t what you'd call inexpensive. Yet, in the world of audiophiles, they are often seen as entry-level, which is somewhat unjustified. The performance-to-cost ratio is solid. For a budget of around $3,000, I’d pair these speakers with a quality amp and preamp and be quite content with the system.
Downsides
No product is without its flaws, and the B&W 684 S2 is no exception. Here are some of the cons I observed:
- The speakers are quite large, which could be an issue for those with limited space.
- While the sound is exceptional for the price, it doesn’t match the precision and separation of higher-end models, though this is expected.
- Aesthetic appeal is subjective, but these speakers might not wow you visually compared to other more expensive options in B&W's lineup.
Is This the Right Speaker for You?
If you’re building a system on a budget, the B&W 684 S2 is a fantastic option. They offer impressive sound quality for the price and are versatile enough to suit various musical tastes. However, if your budget stretches beyond $5,000, you might want to consider other models like the B&W 705 S2, which offers an even better performance-to-value ratio.
Final Thoughts
I am genuinely surprised by how much value the B&W 684 S2 offers. For someone who has invested in high-end audio equipment, these speakers hold their own, delivering remarkable sound quality without the hefty price tag. Whether you’re an audiophile looking for a budget-friendly option or someone just beginning to explore high-fidelity audio, these speakers deserve your consideration. Keep their size in mind and manage your space accordingly, and you’ll have a pair of speakers that is well worth the investment.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Robust build quality
- Clear highs and balanced mid-range
- Punchy and deep bass
- Excellent price-to-performance ratio
- Versatile for various genres of music
Cons
- Large size may be a space consideration
- Does not reach the sonic precision of higher-end models
- Aesthetic appeal might lack for some
Uniqueness Compared to Other Products
When compared to the average quality of products in its category, the B&W 684 S2 stands out for its impressive balance between cost and performance. It's neither the most expensive nor the most affordable speaker out there, but it offers a middle ground that many will find appealing. While other speakers might excel in one area (such as extreme bass or ultra-detailed highs), the 684 S2 delivers a well-rounded experience that is hard to beat in its price range.