B&W 607 S2 Anniversary vs. Edifier R1700BT

Speaker Comparison

When navigating the vibrant landscape of contemporary hi-fi, the discerning audiophile is often met with a conundrum that pits the traditional, purist approach against the convenience of modern technology. Enter two contenders in the ring of bookshelf speakers: the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition and the Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers. Each of these products embodies a philosophy, one steeped in heritage and acoustic advancement, the other in versatility and the democratization of quality sound.

The Heritage and Innovation of B&W 607 S2

The Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition speakers carry the torch of a longstanding legacy in audiophile circles, being the latest iteration in a lineage of acclaimed compact speakers. Celebrating over five decades of acoustic engineering, the 607 S2 proudly exhibits the Continuum™ cone technology, derived from their premium siblings, promising a pristine and nuanced soundstage. This technology, alongside the improved crossovers specifically designed for the Anniversary series, aims to deliver a more transparent and detailed audio experience. The 607 S2 doesn't just aim to play music; it strives to transport the listener to the very heart of the recording.

The Modern Versatility of Edifier R1700BT

Contrasting sharply with the tradition-laden narrative of B&W is the Edifier R1700BT, a pair of Bluetooth-enabled bookshelf speakers that champion flexibility. Aimed at a crowd that seeks to marry their love for music with the convenience of wireless technology, the R1700BT offers a different kind of value proposition. These speakers bring the convenience of Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to stream audio from a variety of devices without the need for cables. With a sound signature that is warm and pleasing, the R1700BT might not challenge the audiophile's quest for ultimate fidelity, but they certainly win points for their user-friendly approach.

Design and Build: A Study in Contrasts

The design and build quality of the 607 S2 speakers reflect Bowers & Wilkins' premium approach. Aesthetically, they exude a minimalist elegance that is both understated and commanding, a testament to the British brand's attention to detail. The Edifier R1700BT, while not lacking in build quality, follows a more utilitarian design ethos. The R1700BT's wooden finish gives it a classic look that would blend well in most settings, yet it doesn't quite capture the same level of sophistication as its British counterpart. When it comes to design, the 607 S2 speaks the language of refinement, whereas the R1700BT speaks of practicality.

In the realm of performance, the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition doesn't disappoint. The speakers' sound reproduction is marked by clarity and precision across the frequency range. The midrange, where most music lives, is particularly impressive, providing a lush and layered portrayal of vocals and instruments. The Edifier R1700BT, while not as acutely detailed, delivers a robust and energetic sound that would satisfy casual listeners and those not inclined to scrutinize every acoustic nuance. Its built-in amplification and tone controls allow for some degree of customization, adding to its user-friendly appeal.

Price and Accessibility

On matters of cost, the 607 S2 and R1700BT diverge considerably. The Bowers & Wilkins option, being a product of audiophile pedigree, commands a premium price and is perhaps seen as an investment into a long-term listening relationship. The Edifier R1700BT sits at a more accessible price point, reflecting its mission to bring quality audio to a broader audience. This pricing strategy puts the R1700BT within easy reach for those new to the world of high-fidelity sound or for those seeking a secondary, more versatile sound system.

The choice between the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition and the Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers hinges on one's priorities and the context of use. For the purist whose listening space is a sanctuary for critical listening sessions, the 607 S2 is a clear choice, rewarding the listener with its acoustic prowess. For the modern listener who juggles various audio sources and values the convenience of wireless streaming, the R1700BT is a compelling proposition. Ultimately, both speakers offer distinct pleasures and cater to the passions of different breeds of music lovers.

What we witness with these two models is not just a comparison of sound quality, but a reflection of the diverging paths within the audio industry. The Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition represents a commitment to the pursuit of pure sound, while the Edifier R1700BT is emblematic of the adaptability and inclusiveness offered by modern technology. Wherever one's preferences may lie, both B&W and Edifier provide steps towards a richer, more vibrant auditory world, asking us to listen, not just with our ears, but with our hearts.