B&W 607 S2 Anniversary vs. Klipsch Reference R-41M

Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition Speakers Klipsch Reference R-41M Bookshelf Speakers
MSRP
$800 $150
Dimensions (H × W × D)
11.81” × 6.50” × 9.13”
300mm × 165mm × 232mm
11.30” × 5.75” × 7.90”
287mm × 146mm × 201mm
Power Type
Passive Passive
Frequency Response
52-28,000 Hz 68-21,000 Hz
ASR Score
3.2 2.8
ASR Score w/Subwoofer
5.3 5.7
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: In the arena of compact audiophile-grade speakers, the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition and Klipsch Reference R-41M are noteworthy contenders. The 607 S2, celebrating B&W's storied heritage, offers refined nuances and a rich midrange, courtesy of its Continuum cone technology. Klipsch's R-41M, with its signature Tractrix horn-loaded tweeter, promises dynamic, lifelike sound and punchy bass, despite its smaller footprint. Both systems cater to different listener preferences—B&W excels in naturalism and detail, while Klipsch delivers efficiency and presence. Your choice hinges on whether you prioritize sonic accuracy or the visceral impact of your music.

Speaker Comparison

Welcome to the faceoff between two compact titans in the world of high-fidelity audio, where British engineering finesse meets American loudspeaker bravado. We're dissecting the nuances between the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition speakers and the Klipsch Reference R-41M bookshelf speakers, both contenders for audiophile affection in small to medium-sized rooms.

Design Philosophy and Build Quality

The Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition echoes the company's sophisticated approach to sound reproduction. With their sleek, understated design and the signature Bowers & Wilkins yellow Kevlar mid-bass driver, these speakers are crafted to please both the ear and the eye. The anniversary edition also celebrates decades of acoustic innovation, with upgraded crossovers and improved components that promise to elevate your listening experience.

Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition Speakers
B&W 607 S2 Anniversary arrow (at Amazon.com)

In contrast, the Klipsch Reference R-41M bookshelf speakers showcase the brand's classic American boldness, both in aesthetics and sound. The R-41M features the iconic Tractrix horn-loaded tweeter, a design that's become synonymous with Klipsch's efficiency and dynamic sound delivery. The copper-spun IMG woofers add a touch of elegance and are indicative of the robust, no-nonsense construction ethos that Klipsch employs.

Sound Signature and Performance

When it comes to the sound signature, the 607 S2s deliver an articulate and refined audio experience. Bowers & Wilkins has focused on producing a balanced sound while preserving the nuances of the music. The Continuum cone technology, originally developed for the 800 Series Diamond, finds its way into these bookshelf speakers, offering a clear and open midrange that is hard to match. The anniversary tweaks further refine the already impressive soundstage and imaging.

Klipsch Reference R-41M Bookshelf Speakers
Klipsch Reference R-41M arrow (at Amazon.com)

The Klipsch R-41Ms, with their horn-loaded tweeters, are renowned for their lively and upfront sound. They can fill a room with ease, thanks to their high sensitivity and dynamic range. The emphasis is on clarity and impact, with the speakers delivering an engaging performance that favors presence and excitement. While they may be more forward-sounding, they are not without finesse, capable of revealing detail in the treble that makes them excellent for movies and music alike.

Room Integration and Versatility

Despite their compact stature, the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 speakers are quite versatile when it comes to room placement. Their relatively neutral balance makes them forgiving and adaptable to various spaces, though they do appreciate some breathing room to fully express their soundstage capabilities. They are just as comfortable in a dedicated listening space as they are in a multi-use living area, performing admirably across a wide variety of genres.

The Klipsch R-41Ms, on the other hand, have a more assertive character that can dominate the room. Their efficiency is a strong asset, making them a great match for lower-powered amplifiers, where they can still provide a vigorous and expansive sound. However, due to their pronounced sonic footprint, they might be a touch overwhelming in smaller or acoustically lively rooms without some careful placement and potential equalization to tame their enthusiasm.


Check Current Prices:

Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition Speakers
Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition Speakers
Klipsch Reference R-41M Bookshelf Speakers
Klipsch Reference R-41M Bookshelf Speakers
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

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Disclaimer: the speaker data listed on this website are correct to the best of our knowledge, but we do not guarantee the accuracy of the data. Please double-check any measurements with the manufacturer before making a final purchasing decision.