B&W 607 S2 Anniversary vs. KEF LS50 Meta

Speaker Comparison

When it comes to high-quality bookshelf speakers, audiophiles often find themselves comparing the nuanced details of different models to discern which set might best suit their auditory palate. Two of the most prominent contenders in today’s market are the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition Speakers and the KEF LS50 Meta Bookshelf Speakers. Each of these speakers comes with a formidable reputation and a history of brand prestige, promising an enticing clash of sonic titans.

Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition: Celebrating Sound

The Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition speakers represent a culmination of refinement within the storied 600 series. These speakers stand out with their Continuum cone technology, which was trickled down from their high-end 800 series, an aspect that speaks volumes about their commitment to quality across price points. The updated crossovers for their anniversary signify a dedication to detail that is palpably audible. The 607 S2 offers a balanced blend of warmth and clarity, demonstrating a presentation that does not overly favor either end of the frequency spectrum.

KEF LS50 Meta: A Modern Classic Evolved

KEF's LS50 Meta, on the other hand, is a modern classic that has been reborn with the innovative Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT). This cutting-edge feature is a highly complex maze-like structure, where each of its intricate channels efficiently absorbs a specific frequency. By incorporating MAT, KEF claims a significant reduction in distortion, leading to purer sound reproduction. The LS50 Meta also retains the iconic Uni-Q driver, which positions the tweeter concentrically within the midrange/bass cone, delivering a detailed and integrated three-dimensional soundstage.

Design & Build Quality

In terms of design, both speakers convey their brand philosophies through their aesthetics. Bowers & Wilkins' 607 S2 Anniversary Edition sports a more traditional look with its rectangular shape and wood-finish options, which allows it to blend seamlessly into most living spaces. In contrast, the KEF LS50 Meta's curved front and distinct color options give it a contemporary edge that's likely to appeal to those with modern tastes. Build quality is excellent on both counts; however, the LS50 Meta's use of high-density polymers feels a touch more futuristic and robust compared to the classic MDF construction of the 607 S2.

The soundstage is another area where these two contenders differentiate themselves. The Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 offers a soundstage that is wide and expansive, with an ability to position instruments in a room with pinpoint accuracy. Voices have a natural presence, and there's a palpable sense of space around each instrument. KEF's LS50 Meta, while also offering an impressive soundstage, leans more towards an intimate presentation. The precise imaging and depth can make listening feel like a private concert, with each note and vocal appearing to emanate from a specific point in space.

Bass response is critical in bookshelf speakers, and here is where your tastes may sway your decision. The 607 S2 Anniversary Editions have a surprisingly full-bodied low end given their size, though they may not dig quite as deep as some would like without a subwoofer. The LS50 Metas are also not bass monsters, but they articulate the low frequencies with tightness and control that is impressive for a speaker of its size. In both cases, the midrange and treble are rendered beautifully, but the KEF might have an edge in the treble with its unique MAT-enhanced driver design.

In conclusion, choosing between the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition and the KEF LS50 Meta Bookshelf Speakers largely depends on personal preference and the specific sonic qualities an individual values. The 607 S2 excels in delivering a wide soundstage and a naturalistic tonal balance, making it incredibly versatile for various genres of music. The LS50 Meta impresses with its innovative technology, providing a focused and pristine sound that is both articulate and immersive. Ultimately, both speakers uphold the legacy of their brands and continue to push the envelope in the realm of high-fidelity sound reproduction.