Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- The 704 is the slimmest and most low-profile floor standing speaker that Bowers & Wilkins produce, meaning its footprint size is quite comparable to bookshelf speakers
- The 704 handled higher volumes of sound really well
Product Considerations
- As a floor standing speaker, the 704 is always going to be better in a larger room
- The 704 asks for a little bit more power, operating between 30 to 150 watts
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the 705S3 (bookshelf), the 704 has two extra drivers, provides more separation for the sound, and has more low-end
- Compared to the 705S3 (bookshelf), the 704 is better for AV settings because of its bigger sound and extra bass drivers
Takeaway: The 704 is a fantastic speaker designed to fill a larger space easily. If one is looking for a floor standing speaker that can handle higher volumes well, it could be a great choice.
All
704 S3
reviews

Manufacturer details
- Net weight: 20.53kg
- Dimensions Height: 925 mm (36.4 in) cabinet only, 964 mm (38.0 in) including tweeter and plinth
- Width: 165 mm (6.5 in) cabinet only, 252 mm (9.9 in) including plinth
- Depth: 263 mm (10.4 in) cabinet only, 300 mm (11.8 in) including grille and terminals, 321 mm (12.6 in) including plinth
- Drive units: 1x ø25mm (1 in) Decoupled Carbon Dome high-frequency, 1x ø130mm (5 in) Continuum cone FST midrange, 2x ø130mm (5 in) Aerofoil profile bass
- Frequency range: 43Hz and 33kHz
- Frequency response: 48Hz - 28kHz ±3dB
- Harmonic distortion: 2nd and 3rd harmonics (90dB, 1m on axis) <1% 100Hz - 22kHz, <0.5% 300Hz - 20kHz
- Nominal impedance: 8Ω (minimum 3.1Ω)
- Recommended amplifier power: 30W - 150W into 8Ω on unclipped programme
- Max recommended cable impedance: 0.1Ω
- Sensitivity: 88dB spl (2.83Vrms, 1m)
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- They consistently produce clear and crisp sound, often exceeding expectations for soundbars, making them a reliable choice for audio fidelity.
- Bowers & Wilkins products, particularly soundbars, are known for their elegant and minimalistic designs, often featuring high-quality materials like Nappa leather, aluminum, and unique mesh fabrics. This blend of aesthetics and functionality aims to seamlessly integrate into any room decor.
Select products
600 Series
- Positioning: The entry-level range in the Bowers & Wilkins lineup, designed to offer high-quality sound at an affordable price.
- Description: Praised for its affordability and the inclusion of the Titanium Dome tweeter, which provides clear and detailed high frequencies. Compared to the more expensive 700 Series, offers a more accessible entry point for those who want good sound quality without the premium price tag.
700 Series
- Positioning: Sits above the 600 Series, offering a step-up in performance and design, drawing on technologies from the flagship 800 Series.
- Description: Notable for its use of the Carbon Dome tweeter and Continuum cone. This series provides a more expansive soundstage than the 600 Series.
Signature Series
- Positioning: Represents a premium offering within the Bowers & Wilkins lineup, featuring enhanced versions of existing models with unique finishes and optimized components.
- Description: Distinguished by its luxurious design and tuning, offering superior sound clarity and detail. It builds on the 700 Series with further refinements and exclusive finishes.
Nautilus
- Positioning: The flagship model of Bowers & Wilkins, known for its iconic design and groundbreaking technology.
- Description: Celebrated for its unique spiral design and advanced acoustic technologies, such as the tapered damping tubes that minimize distortion. It stands apart from other models with its unparalleled sound quality and artistic design. This model is best suited for dedicated listening rooms where its full potential can be realized.
Our take on the brand
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Used
Bowers & Wilkins
What if you spend more?
Product Strengths
- Superb design and build quality.
- Articulate sound, especially in the upper midrange and treble regions.
- Very good imaging, with strong definition and delineation between instruments and performers.
- Vivid and clear midrange, revealing subtle details in recordings.
- Transparency ensures more of the music is heard as it was intended.
Product Considerations
- A capable amplifier is needed due to impedance dips to 3.1 ohms.
- Not a bass-heavy speaker.
- The tweeter can become too much if listening to poorly recorded music or at very high volumes.
- The bass can sound a bit thin, depending on room size and personal preference.
- Can sound a little bit cool when playing certain types of music.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs KEF R11 Meta—KEFs presented more physical scale with respect to soundstage, with even greater width.
- Vs Polk R700 and Klipsch RP8000F Mk2—Not better than the B&Ws, but aren't embarrassed by them either.
- Vs B&W 805 D IV—In one listening room, the 703 is nearly as good.
- Zoo sound a little bit warmer.
Takeaway: The 703 S3 makes listening engaging and fun, with dynamic sound suitable for both music and movies. It brings clarity to vocals, especially at lower volumes, making it great for late-night listening.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Product Strengths
- Trickle-down technology from the 800 series narrows the gap with higher-end models
- Improved clarity of details, accuracy, and soundstage width compared to previous 702 models
- Clean and articulate bass is often attributed to the downward-firing port and plinth arrangement
- Excellent imaging and soundfield, with impressive width and height
- Delivers high definition and low coloration, offering a taste of the 800 Series experience
Product Considerations
- Careful positioning is required to achieve optimal tonal balance and musicality
- A reasonably powerful amplifier (minimum 75W recommended) is needed to perform at its best
- May not be a great match for valve amplifiers, preferring solid-state options
- The satin black MDF plinths are integral and require additional floor space
- Difficult to move around due to their weight (over 40 kg each) and lack of handholds
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the 702 S2 and 702 Signature, the S3 has improved clarity, accuracy, and soundstage width
- Compared to the Focal Aria 936 K2, the reviewer prefers the aesthetics of the 702 S3
Takeaway: The 702 S3 is a well-built loudspeaker offering a significant upgrade in sound quality. Trickle-down technology gives a taste of Bowers & Wilkins' flagship series at a more affordable price.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Product Strengths
- Balanced and detailed sound across the entire frequency spectrum
- Brilliant detail resolution, allowing listeners to discover new nuances in familiar music
- Down-firing bass reflex system allows for flexible placement, even close to walls
- An effortless sense of weight, room-filling, confident, airy presentation works at low levels as well as when giving them higher volume
- Delivers a taste of an 800 Series floorstander at a more terrestrial price-point
Product Considerations
- Significantly higher price than the standard 702 S3
- Extremely difficult to move around
- Finishes look susceptible to finger marks
- Tricky to get a handhold on, which is something that is needed in order to move their 35+ kg bulk around
- Naturally prefers decent mastering, but it won't result in bits of collections gathering dust because it tears them to shreds
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The 702 S3 Signature competes with speakers like the Bowers & Wilkins 804 Diamond, which is almost double the price
Takeaway: The Bowers & Wilkins 702 S3 Signature provides a unique, balanced, and powerful sound signature, allowing new details to be discovered in music. It's well-made, attractive, and delivers a reasonable taste of the 800 series floor-standing experience at a lower price.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Bring the track spirit into your home with LS60 Wireless Lotus Edition, created in partnership with and inspired by the British Racing Green of the iconic brand.
Product Strengths
- Striking, sleek, and modern design that complements modern interiors
- Incorporates KEF's Uni-Q driver array and Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) for neutral, open, detailed sound, reducing unwanted sound from the rear of the tweeter
- Includes Uni-Core force-canceling woofers that reduce cabinet vibrations, contributing to balanced and detailed bass
- The KEF Connect app allows for adjustments to fit the listening environment
- Offers high connectivity and is a true stand-alone system
Product Considerations
- Bass can be a bit too much out of the box, requiring adjustments via the app or placement considerations
- Not well-suited for those who have many signal sources to connect to
- Some reviewers found the bass lacked definition in the upper bass, with unclear instrument placement, even after adjusting EQ settings
- The included remote control is considered basic or cheap
- Mandatory online registration and administrator-level internet connection requirements for the app may be a drawback for privacy-conscious users
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Bang & Olufsen Beolab 28, the LS60 Wireless can achieve similar sound quality with adjustments, at a lower price point, although the Beolab 28 sounds 'more right' straight out of the factory
- Compared to the KEF LS50 Wireless II, the LS60 Wireless is preferred stylistically, achieves near full-range playback, and has a more slim design, although it costs more and also provides much deeper bass
- Compared to the Q Acoustics Active 400 Towers, the LS60 Wireless has no issues with products not working
Takeaway: The KEF LS60 Wireless are stylish, all-in-one speakers that deliver a balanced, detailed sound with advanced technology. They are a convenient, high-performing solution for those seeking a streamlined audio setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent bass performance is a defining feature, providing tight, smooth, even, solid, and tangible bass extension into the 20 Hz range, eliminating placement issues associated with separate subwoofers
- Balanced overall sound, coherence, and ability to present music in a natural and effortless way is consistently praised
- High levels of detail come through with the High-Velocity Folded Ribbon AMT tweeter and cast-basket mid/bass units
- A holographic image over the seating area of a typical sofa is capable with excellent imaging and a wide and open soundstage, even when not seated in the exact sweet spot
- The Santa Barbara Red finish option receives high marks for its visual appeal
Product Considerations
- Still a significant investment, especially the Santa Barbara Red finish
- The metal grille covering the drivers is not designed to be easily removed
- Care should be taken with system matching, due to a slightly hot high-end
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The T66 offers more refinement and a more 'of-a-piece' sound than the Triton One.R
- Has internal structural improvements that make it even more stable and rigid than previous generations
Takeaway: The GoldenEar T66 delivers audiophile-grade sound and aesthetics, with powerful bass and exceptional detail. These speakers are easy to incorporate into nearly any environment, and have the power to let the listener appreciate all the nuances in favorite songs or movies.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Elegant design with a combination of wood and leather that gives a classy appearance
- Impressive bass output, with some reviewers noting deep and tuneful bass
- The midrange is articulate and expressive, delivering vocals with palpability and detail
- Smooth and detailed high-end reproduction, thanks to the Damped Apex Dome (DAD) tweeter
- Relatively easy to drive with a sensitivity of 89-90dB
Product Considerations
- Requires careful placement to achieve the best balance, especially regarding toe-in
- The bass can sometimes be perceived as boomy depending on the room acoustics
- Some reviewers mention the included binding posts are cheap
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Q Acoustics Concept 50, the Lumina V has a more live sound, but the Concept 50 is more neutral, and more inert
- Compared to the Polk R700, the Lumina V is sonically similar to the R700, but with slightly less bass and a smaller cabinet—with better aesthetics; the R700 is more full range and warmer
- Compared to the Spendor A4 or ProAc Response DT8, the Lumina V is not as precise, but offers a natural sonic grace
Takeaway: The Sonus Faber Lumina V is an elegant speaker that delivers detailed sound and impressive bass. It is a great option if you want speakers that look as good as they sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Remarkably coherent and balanced sound profile, resulting from well-engineered and matched drivers and cabinet
- An uncanny ability to 'disappear' in the listening room
- The DPC array design contributes to a wide horizontal dispersion, allowing a broader sweet spot for multiple listeners
- Accurate sound reproduction and neutral enough for studio use
- A high level of dynamic ability, good low-end control, and a cavernous soundstage
Product Considerations
- Only available in gloss black and gloss white finishes, which might not suit all tastes or home décor
- The price point is a significant investment, placing it beyond the reach of many
- Some reviewers noted a mild treble roll-off, or smooth character that was overly kind on poor recordings and might lack the sparkle and excitement some listeners prefer
- Setting up requires assistance, due to the weight
- The lower bass extension may not satisfy deep bass enthusiasts, with extension starting to drop below 40Hz
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Perlisten S7t, the S7t offers more overall weight, bottom-end reach, resolution, and dynamic speed, but the R7t shines brightly on its own
- Compared to the EgglestonWorks Oso, the Oso presented a more muscular version of the music with more bottom end oomph, while the R7t conveyed music's finer points with more apparent resolution
- Compared to the KEF Reference 3, the KEF may yield deeper bass extension due to greater cabinet volume, and the scale of the soundstage may also be improved, but the Perlisten offers a superior disappearing act
Takeaway: The Perlisten R7t are well-built speakers that provide a detailed and immersive listening experience, with their advanced design and unique driver array creating a spacious soundstage. Their cutting-edge design creates a great listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent midrange imaging and naturalness, described as smooth and stunning
- Smooth treble with a timbre and natural decay that allows for hours of listening without fatigue
- Expansive soundstaging with good imaging, height, and depth
- Stellar overall balance makes it an outstanding performer
- Beautiful wood veneer with high polish lacquer and attention to detail in construction
Product Considerations
- Bass will not reach subterranean levels, a subwoofer may be required for strong bass enthusiasts
- Speakers may benefit from more power
- "Messy music" (genres with rawness or grime) may not be conveyed as well, as the speaker can be a little polite
- Excellent clarity was brilliantly showcased by Ray Gelato's Basin Street Blues, beautifully recorded on the Linn label, which may not appeal to all audiences
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the standard Antal Ez, the 40th Anniversary edition uses a lighter—more rigid anodized-magnesium tweeter for higher efficiency, lower distortion, and better directivity
Takeaway: The Triangle Antal 40th Anniversary is a well-balanced and beautiful loudspeaker with a stunning midrange that provides a musical and engaging listening experience. Its clarity, expansive soundstage, and beautiful design make it a great addition to any audiophile's setup
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Deep, strong, and powerful bass conveys music on a scale that may not be expected
- Excellent musical communicator with a relatively clean and open midband, and a surprisingly polished treble for its price
- Well-rounded sound with perfect tonal balance and the ability to create perfectly stable and three-dimensional sound sources with great tonal differentiation
- Delivers on quality while being easy to drive from even moderately powered amps due to its impressive sensitivity
Product Considerations
- May require a medium to large room to avoid overpowering smaller environments
- The snappy character of the ceramic/aluminum drivers needs sympathetic amp matching, as it is best not partnered with a brighter-balanced transistor amplifier
- There is some cabinet coloration
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Bowers & Wilkins' 603 S2 Anniversary Edition, B&W is a more 'grown-up' sounding speaker in that it's more discreet, controlled, measured, and refined
Takeaway: The AE320 is a well-designed and well-made speaker that sounds warm, open, and cohesive across the frequency range. It offers great value for its price and is ideal for those looking for a floorstanding speaker with excellent detail and impact.
Video review
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