B&W 607 S2 Anniversary vs. Jamo S 803

Speaker Comparison

When we bring up compact loudspeakers that can fit into nearly any living space while delivering an expansive soundstage, the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition and Jamo S 803 bookshelf speakers both merit attention. In the world of high-fidelity audio, these two models speak volumes—quite literally—about the technological prowess and design philosophy of their respective creators. Bowers & Wilkins, often abbreviated as B&W, is a British company known for its precise engineering and refined aesthetic, while Jamo, hailing from Denmark, blends contemporary design with a sound that is both lively and engaging.

Design and Build Quality

The Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition speakers exude a classic, almost timeless charm. Their craftsmanship is apparent, with beautifully textured grilles and a solid construction that feels built to last. In contrast, the Jamo S 803s flaunt a more modern appeal, with clean lines and a minimalist design that would complement a Scandinavian-style interior. The build quality of the Jamos is robust, yet they are designed with affordability in mind, which might suggest a compromise in material quality when compared to the more premium finish of the B&Ws.

Sound Characteristics

Delving into the acoustic characteristics of these speakers, the B&W 607 S2 Anniversary Editions are known for their remarkable clarity and detail retrieval. From the crisp highs to the well-defined mids, these speakers reveal the nuances in music that audiophiles crave. The Continuum cone material, a technology borrowed from their flagship 800 series, ensures a cleaner and more accurate performance. The Jamo S 803s, meanwhile, deliver a punchy and dynamic sound. They have a forward presentation that makes them particularly enjoyable for genres like pop, rock, and electronic music. The bass reflex design and the waveguide for the tweeter contribute to their wide soundstage and impressive low-end response for their size.

Performance in Various Spaces

The B&W 607 S2 Anniversary Editions are quite versatile when it comes to room placement. They are engineered to perform well in both small and medium-sized rooms. Thanks to their Decoupled Double Dome tweeter, they can fill the space with a precise and expansive sound without becoming overbearing. On the other hand, the Jamo S 803s are also flexible with positioning, but they tend to shine in spaces where they can be a little louder. They have a presence that demands attention, and they deliver an immersive listening experience that can make them the life of the party in a more open setting.

Price is another factor where these two contenders markedly diverge. The B&W 607 S2 Anniversary Editions are undeniably an investment in high-quality audio. They reflect the company's commitment to innovation and excellence, and their price tag is indicative of their premium standing. The Jamo S 803s are positioned as a more budget-friendly option, providing a great value proposition for those who are dipping their toes into the world of high-fidelity sound without wanting to dive headfirst into the deep end of the price pool.

In the pursuit of musical nirvana, compatibility with amplifiers and source components is crucial. The B&W 607 S2 Anniversary Edition speakers are somewhat more demanding in terms of amplification. They thrive with high-quality amplifiers that can provide clean and stable power. This is not a speaker you would pair with a bargain basement receiver and expect to achieve audio bliss. The Jamo S 803s are less finicky, with a design that accommodates a wider range of amplifiers, including those that may not be as robust, making them a good match for entry-level systems.

Ultimately, choosing between the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition and the Jamo S 803 bookshelf speakers boils down to individual preferences and priorities. Are you seeking the refined, detailed, and pure sound that B&W is known for, with its top-tier engineering and audiophile-grade components? Or does the spirited, room-filling sound of the Jamo S 803s, with their contemporary appeal and friendlier price point, resonate more with your audio ideals? Whichever path you choose, rest assured that both speakers stand as testaments to their makers' dedication to bringing quality sound to the spaces we live and love in.