The Bowers & Wilkins 800 Series is getting an update with a full component review and a new “unique and revolutionary Biomimetic Suspension”, that re-imagines ” the fundamental basics of a conventional loudspeaker drive unit”. Crickey, that is some opening line from Bowers & Wilkins.
The new 800 range will feature seven models from a two-way standmount to the flagship three-way 801 D4 floorstander.  For home theatre use there is a choice of two centre channel options to complete the range.

What’s new?

Just about everything in the range is new, each model in the range adopts a revised version of the iconic Solid Body Tweeter-on-Top housing.  This system has a new, elongated tube-loading system for increased openness in the high frequencies.

B&W use the Continuum Cone that we saw in the 603 S2 Anniversary range.  This midrange and mid/bass composite cone are frequently combined with Bowers’ FST technology in the midrange surround to reduce colouration.  This new 800 range retains this technology but evolves it with a new Biomimetic Suspension system that replaces the fabric spider that holds the loudspeaker drive unit in place.  This new composite system reduces unwanted air pressure that creates non-linear drive performance and improves the performance, claim Bowers & Wilkins.

There are several other improvements in the technology that address performance in the midrange and the higher frequencies as well as a new bracing in the cabinet that is made from solid plywood instead of the previous MDF bracing.  The floorstanders have a downward-firing bass port that exits onto a new aluminium plinth

Finally, there is the addition of a fourth cabinet finish to the line-up. The new range now includes a satin walnut finish.  The established selection of gloss black, white and satin rosenut remain.

Prices

801 D4 – flagship floorstander – £30,000 / $35,000 / €35,000

802 D4 – floorstander – £22,500 / $26,000 / €26,000

803 D4 – floorstander – £16,000 / $20,000 / €20,000

804 D4 – floorstander – £9,500 / $12,500 / €12,500

805 D4 – standmount – £6,250 / $8,000 / €8,000

HTM81 D4 – centre – £6,500 / $7,500 / €7,500

HTM82 D4 – centre – £4,750 / $5,500 / €5,500

FS-805 D4 – floor stand for 804 D4 – £1,100 / $1,200 / €1,200

FS-HTM D4 – centre-channel stand – £700 / $800 / €800

The Bowers & Wilkins 800 Series Diamond is available globally from September 1st.

About Bowers & Wilkins

Bowers & Wilkins, founded in the U.K. in 1966, has been at the forefront of high-performance audio technology for more than 50 years. It designs and manufactures precision home speakers, headphones, custom installation and performance car audio products that set new standards for innovation and sound quality, earning countless awards and accolades from the world’s leading recording studios and musicians. Bowers & Wilkins’ reputation is based on the unwavering pursuit of the best possible sound and an unsurpassable music listening experience. Bowers & Wilkins joined the Sound United LLC family of brands in 2020. Learn more at www.bowerswilkins.com