B&W 607 S2 Anniversary vs. Polk Signature Elite ES20

Speaker Comparison

When it comes to high-fidelity audio, bookshelf speakers often present an appealing balance of performance, size, and price. Today, we're comparing two popular options in the market for audiophiles and music enthusiasts who are not willing to compromise on sound quality: the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition and the Polk Audio Signature Elite ES20. While both speakers aim to deliver an immersive listening experience, they approach sound reproduction with their unique philosophies and technological strengths.

The Legacy of Bowers & Wilkins

Bowers & Wilkins, a British company, has long been synonymous with premium audio quality. The 607 S2 Anniversary Edition commemorates the brand's decades of acoustic research and development. With their Kevlar bass/midrange cones and the iconic Continuum cone technology, these speakers are designed to reveal the subtle nuances in music that might escape less refined transducers. The Anniversary Edition also brings an upgraded crossover that includes better quality capacitors, specifically designed to enhance even the most delicate frequencies.

Polk Audio's American Ingenuity

Conversely, Polk Audio, an American brand, infuses its Signature Elite ES20 bookshelf speakers with a different set of priorities. The ES20 speakers are a part of Polk's effort to provide high-quality sound to a more cost-conscious audience. Featuring their proprietary Dynamic Balance acoustic array and a new high-resolution Terylene tweeter, these speakers are crafted to offer a rich, clean, and full-range sound that can fill a room without breaking the bank. With their Power Port technology, the ES20 provides deeper bass by smoothing out the turbulence at the mouth of the bass port.

Design Aesthetics and Build Quality

When you set eyes on the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition, you're greeted with a level of sophistication and elegance that is expected from a company that also crafts the legendary 800 Series. The attention to detail and build quality are evident, and the choice of finishes allows these speakers to blend seamlessly into a listener's decor. The Polk Audio Signature Elite ES20, while offering a sleek design, prioritizes functionality with its non-resonant MDF cabinet. The aim is to keep the focus on sound rather than extravagance, yet they still maintain a look that can proudly be displayed in any modern living space.

Sound-wise, the B&W 607 S2 Anniversary Edition delivers an astoundingly clear midrange and treble, thanks in no small part to its upgraded components and the refinement that comes with years of speaker design experience. They create an expansive soundstage that can make you forget you're listening to a relatively compact bookshelf speaker. The bass is tight and controlled, providing a great foundation without muddying the overall sound profile.

The Polk Audio Signature Elite ES20, with its custom mid-woofers and terylene tweeters, offers a more aggressive bass response that can be a boon for bass-heavy music genres or for those who shy away from adding a separate subwoofer. Their soundstage is impressive, and they deliver a warm and engaging sound. However, they might not match the pristine clarity of the B&W 607 S2 in the mid to high frequencies, which is something discerning listeners may notice.

Conclusion: Choosing Your Champion

In summary, the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition speakers are aimed at the purist who seeks clarity and detail in their music above all else. These speakers reflect a tradition of British excellence in sound. They are perfect for those who want to hear every breath and string vibration in a recording. The Polk Audio Signature Elite ES20, on the other hand, will appeal to a listener looking for robust all-around performance with a pronounced low-end, all while being mindful of value. No matter your choice, both pairs of speakers are a testament to their makers' dedication to audio perfection.