Bowers & Wilkins 702 S2 SIGNATURE floorstanding speakers

6 000,00 €

Bowers & Wilkins 702 S2 SIGNATURE are floorstanding speakers for a home stereo system. Their three-way design uses separate drivers for high, midrange and low frequencies, and the Signature version has an updated crossover. They require a separate amplifier; when choosing one, consider both the nominal 8 Ω impedance and the stated 3.1 Ω minimum. The wood grain of the Datuk Gloss finish varies between pairs.

Description

Bowers & Wilkins 702 S2 SIGNATURE are three-way floorstanding speakers for a home audio system. Stereo listening uses two speakers: one for the left channel and one for the right. Separate drivers reproduce the high, midrange and low frequencies. The Signature version also has an updated crossover.

Three-way design

A 25 mm Decoupled Carbon Dome tweeter sits above the main cabinet in a Solid Body Tweeter-on-Top housing. A decoupled 150 mm Continuum cone FST driver handles the midrange, while three 165 mm Aerofoil Profile drivers reproduce the bass.

The crossover directs the signal to the different drivers. Its design and components have been updated for the Signature version, making it one of the construction differences to consider when comparing this model with the standard 702 S2. The crossover description alone cannot tell you how large an audible difference you will hear in your room.

Bass and room placement

This is a bass reflex speaker with a Flowport opening. Leave space around the cabinet when positioning it, and keep the port unobstructed. Distance from walls and corners can change the amount of bass you hear. Start by placing both speakers, then adjust their positions while listening from your usual seat. Small placement changes are best judged where you normally listen.

The tweeter above the cabinet also needs clear space. If you plan to place the speaker beneath a shelf or beside furniture, allow for its full height. Exact dimensions are not provided here, so do not plan a tight recess around an estimated size.

Amplifier and connections

These speakers require a separate amplifier. The recommended amplifier power is 30-300 W into 8 Ω when reproducing an undistorted signal. This is a range for choosing an amplifier; it does not describe the power the speaker consumes or continuously delivers.

Nominal impedance is 8 Ω, but the stated minimum is 3.1 Ω. Consider both figures when choosing an amplifier, particularly if you expect to listen at higher volumes. Connect the amplifier’s speaker outputs using speaker cables, following the left and right channel labels and the polarity markings. A specific set of cables or other accessories is not stated here.

Understanding the frequency figures

The 45 Hz-28 kHz frequency response is specified within ±3 dB. The wider 28 Hz-33 kHz frequency range is specified at the -6 dB points. These figures use different measurement limits, so they describe different parts of the speaker’s measured output rather than conflicting results.

The 90 dB sensitivity figure is measured with a 2.83 V RMS signal at a distance of one metre. The harmonic distortion limits likewise apply at the stated 90 dB level and one-metre distance. Keep those conditions with the figures when making comparisons: they do not promise the same result in every room or at every listening level.

Finish and choosing a pair

The Datuk Gloss finish shows a visible wood grain. Its pattern varies between speaker pairs, so two pairs will not look exactly alike. The stated minimum order quantity is two speakers, matching the left and right channels needed for stereo listening.

Technical specifications

Type Three-way floorstanding bass reflex speaker
Tweeter 1 × 25 mm decoupled Decoupled Carbon Dome in a Solid Body Tweeter-on-Top housing
Midrange driver 1 × 150 mm decoupled Continuum cone FST
Bass drivers 3 × 165 mm Aerofoil Profile
Bass reflex port Flowport
Crossover Updated design and components for the Signature version
Frequency range 28 Hz-33 kHz at -6 dB
Frequency response 45 Hz-28 kHz, ±3 dB
Sensitivity 90 dB SPL at 2.83 V RMS, measured at 1 m
Harmonic distortion Second and third harmonics at 90 dB and 1 m: <1% from 86 Hz to 28 kHz; <0.5% from 110 Hz to 20 kHz
Nominal impedance 8 Ω; stated minimum 3.1 Ω
Recommended amplifier power 30-300 W into 8 Ω with an undistorted signal
Finish Datuk Gloss; wood grain varies between pairs
Minimum order quantity 2 units

FAQ

Do these speakers need a separate amplifier?

Yes. When choosing one, consider the recommended power range and the stated minimum impedance of 3.1 Ω. The nominal 8 Ω figure alone is not enough for that decision.

How do I use them in a stereo system?

Connect one speaker to the amplifier’s left channel and the other to its right channel. Place both at similar distances from your main listening position, then adjust their placement by listening.

Can they serve as the front speakers in a home cinema system?

Two floorstanding speakers can serve as the front left and right channels. For this use, assess an AV amplifier against these speakers’ power and impedance specifications.

Can I place them close to a wall?

Choose the distance by listening, as proximity to a wall can change the amount of bass. Keep the Flowport unobstructed and leave space for the tweeter above the cabinet.

Why are two different frequency ranges listed?

The 45 Hz-28 kHz response uses a ±3 dB limit, while the 28 Hz-33 kHz range uses a -6 dB limit. Keep the relevant limit with each figure when comparing speakers.

Is the wood grain identical across different pairs?

No. The wood grain of the Datuk Gloss finish varies between pairs.