Bowers & Wilkins 707 Prestige Edition: A Luxurious Speaker Makeover
- Bowers & Wilkins has released the 707 Prestige Edition, a new bookshelf loudspeaker positioned as the most refined model in its 700 Series range.
- The 707 Prestige Edition utilizes the acoustic platform of the 707 S3, a two-way design featuring a rear-firing bass port.
- Notably, the new speaker draws on technologies from Bowers & Wilkins’ upper-tier lines, including elements derived from both the 705 S3 Signature and the 800 Series Diamonds.
Bowers & Wilkins has released the 707 Prestige Edition, a new bookshelf loudspeaker positioned as the most refined model in its 700 Series range. Building upon the foundation of the 707 S3, originally released in 2022, the Prestige Edition aims to deliver a step up in both acoustic performance and aesthetic appeal.
Refined Acoustics and Legacy Technology
The 707 Prestige Edition utilizes the acoustic platform of the 707 S3, a two-way design featuring a rear-firing bass port. Key technologies incorporated include the Carbon Dome tweeter, Continuum Cone mid-bass drive unit, and a curved baffle. However, the Prestige Edition goes further, incorporating refinements intended to improve resolution and widen the soundstage. These enhancements include a carefully optimized high-frequency tweeter grille mesh and upgraded, low-loss speaker terminals.
Notably, the new speaker draws on technologies from Bowers & Wilkins’ upper-tier lines, including elements derived from both the 705 S3 Signature and the 800 Series Diamonds. The company states that the Prestige Edition incorporates technology from its latest Signature model, a designation historically associated with significant performance upgrades, such as expertly tuned crossover designs and components, and improved materials.
A Focus on Finish: Santos Gloss
Visually, the 707 Prestige Edition distinguishes itself with an exclusive Santos Gloss finish. This luxurious veneer is created through a meticulous process involving 12 layers of paint and lacquer, resulting in a deep, reflective surface. The Santos Gloss treatment is inspired by the Santos Rosewood veneer previously used on the limited-run 805 D3 Prestige Edition.
The aesthetic is designed to complement the broader 700 Series, but the materials and detailing clearly position the Prestige Edition as a flagship bookshelf speaker. Optional floor stands, available in black or silver, can be paired with the speakers.
The “Special Edition” Question
The release of the 707 Prestige Edition arrives within a broader trend of “Special Edition” audio equipment. Industry observers often question whether these editions offer genuine improvements beyond cosmetic changes. Bowers & Wilkins appears to be addressing this concern by claiming substantial acoustic upgrades derived from its Signature series, rather than simply offering a new finish.
The question of whether the 707 Prestige Edition is merely a visually enhanced 707 S3, or a genuinely upgraded speaker, is central to its value proposition. The inclusion of technology from the Signature line suggests a more substantial revision than a simple aesthetic makeover.
Availability and Pricing
The Bowers & Wilkins 707 Prestige Edition is currently available at select retailers, priced at €1,750 as of . The speaker builds on the existing 700 Series, which was first introduced with the 707 S3 in 2022.
The company positions the 707 Prestige Edition as the ultimate bookshelf loudspeaker, targeting Hi-Fi enthusiasts who prioritize both performance and craftsmanship in a compact form factor. The speaker’s design and technology aim to deliver a refined listening experience, drawing on Bowers & Wilkins’ extensive experience in loudspeaker development.