For those considering alternatives, the JBL Stage 2 240B ($240) offers remarkable value at just a quarter of the 707 S2's price. Its 4.5-inch polycellulose woofer and 1-inch aluminum dome tweeter, while using more conventional materials, deliver surprisingly capable performance. The HDI waveguide technology, borrowed from JBL's professional studio monitors, helps create consistent sound dispersion across a wider listening area. This makes the Stage 240B particularly forgiving of room placement and listening position - a practical advantage in real-world settings.
Where the 707 S2 excels in refinement and detail, the JBL Stage 240B focuses on delivering strong fundamentals at an accessible price point. Its slightly higher sensitivity (85dB vs 84dB) makes it easier to drive with modest amplification, and its broader power handling range (20-125W) offers more flexibility with receiver matching. While it can't match the B&W's precision imaging or midrange clarity, it provides about 80% of the performance at a fraction of the cost. This makes it an excellent choice for surround channels in a home theater system or as main speakers for listeners prioritizing value over absolute performance.
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The KEF Q1 Meta stands out with its innovative Uni-Q driver array and Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT), offering a more cohesive sound presentation and wider sweet spot than the 707 S2. At $599, it delivers exceptional value while incorporating technology from KEF's higher-end lines. The Uni-Q driver's point-source design creates precise imaging and maintains consistent sound quality even when listening off-axis, making it more forgiving of room placement and multiple listening positions. The MAT technology effectively reduces unwanted resonances, resulting in cleaner, more detailed high frequencies with noticeably lower distortion.
While the 707 S2 edges ahead in absolute sound quality with deeper bass extension and a more refined midrange, the KEF Q1 Meta's higher sensitivity (86dB vs 84dB) makes it easier to drive with modest amplification. The Q1 Meta takes a more neutral, technically precise approach to sound reproduction compared to the B&W's warmer presentation. For home theater use, the KEF's broader sweet spot and more consistent off-axis response make it particularly attractive for multi-seat environments, though it doesn't quite match the B&W's soundstage width and bass impact. Given its price point and technological advantages, the Q1 Meta represents a compelling alternative for those prioritizing value and placement flexibility over ultimate refinement.
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The KEF Q3 Meta takes a distinctly different approach to high-end sound, featuring KEF's innovative Uni-Q driver array that positions the tweeter at the acoustic center of the midrange cone. This design creates a more cohesive soundstage and offers notably better off-axis performance, making it more forgiving with room placement and listening positions. The integration of KEF's new Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) helps deliver smoother, less fatiguing treble while still maintaining excellent detail. At 39Hz, its bass extension digs deeper than the 707 S2, providing fuller low-end response that might eliminate the need for a subwoofer in music-only systems.
At $799, the KEF Q3 Meta represents a compelling value proposition, offering newer technology at a lower price point. Its higher 87dB sensitivity makes it easier to drive with moderate-powered amplifiers, and its larger cabinet size contributes to a more room-filling sound. While it may not match the 707 S2's absolute precision in micro-detail retrieval, it counters with a more relaxed, natural presentation that many listeners find more engaging for long-term listening. For home theater applications, its wider dispersion characteristics create a more enveloping soundfield, though some may prefer the 707 S2's pinpoint imaging for dialogue-heavy content.
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For buyers considering alternatives at a lower price point, the Edifier R1280T offers a compelling value proposition at just $159 for a complete powered speaker system. The built-in amplification delivers 21W RMS per channel, eliminating the need for external amplification, while convenient front-panel controls and included remote allow easy adjustment of volume, bass, and treble. The speakers' dual RCA inputs provide simple connectivity for multiple devices, making them particularly well-suited for desktop computer setups or small room applications where simplicity is valued over ultimate performance.
However, the performance gap between these speakers highlights why the 707 S2 commands its premium price. While the R1280T's 4-inch woofer and silk dome tweeter provide pleasant, room-filling sound, they can't match the 707 S2's precise imaging, dynamic capability, or refined detail retrieval. The Edifier R1280T makes more sense for casual listeners seeking good sound quality in a plug-and-play package, particularly in near-field listening scenarios where its limitations are less apparent. Those seeking critical listening performance or planning to build a proper home theater system will find the 707 S2's superior capabilities justify its higher investment.
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For buyers considering alternatives, the Edifier R1280TS ($91) offers a dramatically different value proposition with its powered design and budget-friendly price point. These speakers include built-in amplification, tone controls, and a remote control, making them an attractive plug-and-play solution for desktop setups or small rooms. The dual RCA inputs and included subwoofer output provide decent connectivity options, while the classic wooden enclosure helps control resonance despite the budget construction.
However, the performance gap between these speakers and the 707 S2 is substantial and reflects their different target markets. The R1280TS's 4-inch woofer and basic silk dome tweeter can't match the detail, dynamics, or spatial presentation of the B&W's premium drivers. While the R1280TS delivers enjoyable sound for casual listening and computer audio, it lacks the refinement, power handling, and upgrade potential that make the 707 S2 suitable for serious home theater and critical listening applications. The Edifier makes more sense for those seeking an immediate, budget-conscious solution rather than investing in a high-performance audio system.
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The JBL Stage2 250B ($320) offers impressive value for budget-conscious buyers, featuring JBL's HDI waveguide technology that creates a wider, more consistent listening area - particularly beneficial for home theater setups with multiple seating positions. Its higher sensitivity rating of 86dB means it's more efficient and easier to drive with modest amplifiers, while the 5.25-inch polycellulose ribbed cone woofer delivers punchy, engaging bass that performs admirably for its price point. The magnetic grilles and robust binding posts demonstrate JBL's practical approach to design, even if the overall build quality doesn't match the 707 S2's premium standards.
While the Stage2 250B can't match the 707 S2's refined detail retrieval and precise imaging, it provides a more forgiving listening experience that works well across a broader range of equipment and room configurations. The HDI waveguide's controlled dispersion helps create an engaging soundstage that's particularly effective for movie dialogue and general entertainment, though critical music listeners might miss the extra resolution and sophistication that the B&W speakers provide. For those building a home theater system or seeking high-performance speakers on a tighter budget, the JBL Stage2 250B represents exceptional value, delivering about 70% of the 707 S2's performance at roughly one-third the price.
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For buyers considering alternatives, the Edifier R1280DBs ($160) offers a compelling value proposition with its built-in amplification and modern connectivity options. Unlike the B&W 707 S2's passive design, these powered speakers include Bluetooth 5.0, optical inputs, and a dedicated subwoofer output, making them exceptionally easy to set up and use. The inclusion of 42 watts of total power, along with integrated DSP processing, means you can start listening immediately without investing in additional equipment. While they can't match the B&W's refined sound quality and premium construction, they deliver surprisingly competent performance for their price point.
Where the Edifier really shines is in versatility and practical everyday use. Their compact size, multiple input options, and included remote control make them ideal for desktop setups, small rooms, or secondary systems where simplicity is key. While they lack the B&W's exceptional detail retrieval, precise imaging, and sophisticated driver technology, they provide good sound quality that exceeds expectations at their price point. For listeners who prioritize convenience and value over absolute sound quality, or those looking for an easy-to-use powered speaker solution, the R1280DBs represents an excellent entry point into quality audio reproduction.
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For those considering alternatives, the Sony Core Series 5" 3-Way Bookshelf Speakers represent an interesting counterpoint at just $150 per pair. Their 3-way design, which includes a dedicated super tweeter, actually extends frequency response up to 50kHz - comparable to the 707 S2's range. The Sony speakers also offer higher sensitivity at 87dB, making them easier to drive with modest amplification, and their larger cabinet size can provide room-filling sound that belies their budget price point.
However, the technical specifications only tell part of the story. While the Sony speakers deliver impressive performance for their price, they lack the refined imaging, precise detail, and controlled bass response that make the 707 S2 special. The Sonys excel at low to moderate volumes and provide enjoyable casual listening, but they can't match the B&W's studio-quality sound reproduction or premium build quality. For home theater use, they make capable surrounds or serve well in a budget-conscious system, but serious listeners will appreciate the significant performance advantages the 707 S2 provides, especially in critical listening scenarios.
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The Edifier R1280T ($84) takes a completely different approach, integrating amplification directly into the speakers to create an accessible, plug-and-play solution. While it can't match the 707 S2's remarkable detail and dynamics, it delivers surprisingly good sound quality for its price point, with a warm, pleasant signature that works well for casual listening. The built-in 21W per channel amplification, dual RCA inputs, and included remote control make it exceptionally user-friendly, especially for desktop setups or small rooms where simplicity is valued over absolute performance.
Where the 707 S2 demands careful setup and high-quality amplification to shine, the R1280T is remarkably forgiving and flexible. Its built-in tone controls allow for basic sound adjustment without additional equipment, and its compact size makes placement easier in tight spaces. While serious audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts will appreciate the 707 S2's superior capabilities, the R1280T represents excellent value for those seeking good sound quality without the complexity and expense of separate components. It's particularly well-suited as an upgrade from computer speakers or for secondary rooms where cost and convenience take priority over ultimate performance.
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The Polk Signature Elite ES10 takes a notably different approach, offering impressive versatility and value at its $350 price point. While it can't match the 707 S2's refined audiophile performance, it excels in home theater applications with its easy-to-drive 87dB sensitivity, flexible mounting options, and ability to seamlessly integrate into multi-speaker setups. The ES10's Terylene dome tweeter and mica-fortified polypropylene driver deliver clear, detailed sound that works particularly well for surround and height channels in Dolby Atmos configurations.
Where the ES10 really stands out is its practicality and value proposition. Its more compact size, included wall-mounting hardware, and forgiving nature with placement make it an excellent choice for those building a complete home theater system where multiple pairs are needed. While it doesn't deliver the same level of soundstage precision or bass control as the 707 S2, the Polk ES10 offers remarkably good performance for its price point, especially when paired with a subwoofer. It's particularly well-suited for users with mainstream AV receivers who want good sound quality without the need for high-end amplification.
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The Klipsch RP-600M II takes a notably different approach to sound reproduction, utilizing a horn-loaded tweeter design that creates a more dynamic and engaging presentation. With its impressive 94dB sensitivity rating (compared to the 707 S2's 84dB), it's significantly easier to drive with modest amplification while still achieving robust volume levels. The latest version brings meaningful improvements, including an 18% larger horn design that reduces unwanted reflections and new aluminum shorting rings that lower distortion. The 6.5-inch Cerametallic woofer, with its 70% larger voice coil, handles bass duties admirably, extending down to 44Hz while maintaining excellent control.
At $649, the RP-600M II represents compelling value, especially for those who prioritize dynamic impact and versatility. Its more forgiving nature regarding placement and amplifier matching makes it a practical choice for real-world listening rooms. While it may not match the 707 S2's ultimate refinement with acoustic music, it excels with rock, pop, and home theater content, delivering an immediately engaging sound that many listeners find more exciting. The speaker's ability to handle both music and movies with equal competence, combined with its more accessible price point, makes it an attractive alternative for those seeking high performance without stretching to the B&W's premium pricing.
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The Klipsch R-51M takes a fundamentally different approach to sound reproduction, using their signature horn-loaded tweeter design to achieve impressive 93dB sensitivity - making these speakers remarkably easy to drive with modest amplification. While they don't match the 707 S2's refined detail or precise imaging, they deliver an exciting, dynamic sound that especially shines with rock, pop, and movie soundtracks. Their punchy bass and forward presentation create an engaging listening experience that many find more immediately impressive than the B&W's more neutral approach.
At less than a quarter of the price of the 707 S2, the Klipsch R-51M represents exceptional value for money, particularly for those building a home theater system or seeking speakers that work well with budget-friendly electronics. While they don't offer the same level of resolution or sophisticated driver materials as the B&Ws, they provide a highly enjoyable listening experience that punches well above their price point. Their efficient design and dynamic character make them an excellent choice for listeners who prioritize impact and excitement over absolute accuracy, or for those looking to maximize performance per dollar spent.
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The ELAC Debut 3.0 DB63 stands out with its larger 6.5-inch aramid fiber woofer and higher 87dB sensitivity, making it notably easier to drive with modest amplification. While it may not match the B&W's microscopic detail retrieval, it delivers impressive performance for less than half the price. The DB63's deeper bass extension to 42Hz and more impactful low end make it particularly compelling for users who want satisfying performance without a subwoofer. Its warmer, more forgiving sound signature proves especially beneficial with compressed streaming content and less-than-perfect recordings.
Where the B&W excels in premium refinement and ultimate detail, the ELAC takes a more practical approach that many listeners might actually prefer in real-world conditions. Its larger cabinet and driver size translate to better performance in larger rooms, while its more efficient design means even basic AV receivers can drive it to satisfying volumes. For buyers seeking maximum performance per dollar, the DB63 offers remarkable value, delivering about 80-90% of the B&W's performance at a significantly lower price point. While it may not have the same premium finish options or brand cachet, its sonic performance punches well above its weight class.
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The SVS Ultra Evolution stands out with its innovative time-aligned cabinet design and diamond-coated aluminum dome tweeter, delivering a more natural and cohesive sound signature compared to the 707 S2. Its higher 88dB sensitivity makes it notably easier to drive with modest amplification, while the deeper bass extension down to 24Hz provides fuller low-end response without requiring a subwoofer. The Ultra Evolution's wider soundstage and more forgiving off-axis performance mean you'll get excellent sound even when not sitting in the perfect sweet spot, making it more practical for real-world listening situations.
At $599, the Ultra Evolution offers remarkable value, incorporating technologies typically found in more expensive speakers while maintaining excellent build quality. Its warmer, more neutral presentation may appeal to listeners who find the 707 S2's detailed sound too analytical, and its superior bass performance makes it more versatile for both music and home theater applications. The bigger cabinet size allows for more extended bass response, though it requires slightly more shelf space. While it may lack the brand cache of B&W, the Ultra Evolution's performance and feature set make it a compelling alternative, especially for those seeking maximum performance per dollar.
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The Polk Audio Signature Elite ES20 at $279 stands out as a compelling alternative for those seeking excellent performance without the premium price tag. While it can't match the 707 S2's ultimate refinement, it delivers surprisingly capable sound with its 6.5" mica-reinforced polypropylene woofer and Terylene tweeter. The ES20's Power Port technology helps deliver extended bass response, and its higher 86dB sensitivity makes it easier to drive with modest amplifiers. It's also more forgiving of room placement, making it a practical choice for real-world listening environments.
Where the ES20 really shines is in its value proposition, offering around 80% of the 707 S2's performance at less than a third of the price. The Polk ES20 proves particularly versatile for home theater applications, where its good dynamics and bass response make it effective for movies, and its affordable price point makes building a complete surround system more accessible. While it may benefit from some EQ adjustment to address port resonance issues, its overall performance and flexibility make it an excellent choice for listeners who prioritize value while still demanding good sound quality.
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The Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M offers a compelling alternative at less than one-quarter of the 707 S2's price, delivering impressive performance through a different design philosophy. Its 93dB sensitivity rating means it needs just one-eighth the amplifier power to achieve the same volume levels as the B&W, making it an excellent choice for users with modest amplification. The Tractrix horn-loaded tweeter and Cerametallic woofer combination produces a more forward, dynamic sound signature that especially excels with rock music and movie soundtracks. While it may not match the B&W's micro-detail retrieval and refinement, the RP-500M delivers punchy, engaging performance that many listeners find more exciting.
Where the 707 S2 demands careful placement and powerful amplification to perform its best, the RP-500M proves more flexible and forgiving in real-world conditions. Its horn-loaded design helps it project well in larger spaces, and the higher sensitivity means it can achieve satisfying volume levels with even modest receivers. While it may not offer the same level of cabinet finish or absolute resolution as the B&W, the RP-500M's combination of dynamic sound, placement flexibility, and remarkable value makes it an excellent choice for listeners who prioritize impact and efficiency over ultimate refinement. The money saved could be invested in other system components or room treatment, potentially yielding better overall results for many users.
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The Polk Reserve R200 stands out with its impressive bass extension down to 39Hz and higher 86dB sensitivity, making it an excellent alternative for those seeking deeper low-end response and easier amplifier matching. Its 6.5-inch Turbine Cone woofer and Ring Radiator tweeter create a wider soundstage with a warmer, more forgiving presentation that many listeners find engaging for both music and movies. The newer design from 2021 incorporates modern features like X-Port technology and Power Port 2.0, which help reduce port noise and improve overall bass performance.
At $749, the Polk R200 represents a strong value proposition, offering comparable performance in many areas while costing significantly less than the 707 S2. While it may not match the B&W's exceptional detail retrieval and premium materials, it delivers excellent sound quality that works particularly well in home theater applications and less-treated rooms. Its more efficient design also means it can reach satisfying volume levels with more modest amplification, making it a practical choice for real-world listening environments where absolute acoustic precision isn't the primary goal.
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The KEF Q150 offers a compelling alternative at a significantly lower price point, primarily distinguished by its innovative Uni-Q driver array that places the tweeter in the acoustic center of the midrange driver. This design creates a more coherent soundstage and maintains consistent sound quality across a wider listening area - a notable advantage for rooms with multiple seating positions. While it may not match the 707 S2's exceptional detail retrieval and bass authority, the Q150 delivers remarkable performance for its price, with particularly strong imaging and a natural, balanced sound signature that works well across all genres. The speaker's 86dB sensitivity also makes it slightly easier to drive with modest amplification.
Where the Q150 really shines is in its value proposition and versatility. At roughly one-third the price of the 707 S2, it delivers about 80% of the performance in many areas, making it an excellent choice for both serious music listening and home theater applications. The Uni-Q driver's wide dispersion characteristics help create a more forgiving sweet spot, and its slightly more compact size makes it easier to position in smaller rooms. While it may not reach the same heights in terms of micro-detail and dynamic impact as the 707 S2, the KEF Q150 represents an impressive balance of performance and affordability that will satisfy all but the most demanding audiophiles.
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The KEF Q350 takes a fundamentally different approach to high-end sound with its Uni-Q driver array, which positions the tweeter in the center of the midrange/bass cone. This creates a more cohesive soundstage and significantly wider sweet spot compared to the 707 S2's traditional driver layout. The Q350's more forgiving nature makes it easier to position in real-world rooms, and its higher sensitivity (87dB vs 84dB) means it works well with a broader range of amplifiers. The fuller bass presence, while not quite as tight as the B&W's, provides satisfying low-end performance that many listeners prefer, especially when using the speakers without a subwoofer.
At nearly half the price of the 707 S2, the Q350 delivers remarkably competitive performance that makes it an exceptional value proposition. While it may not match the B&W's pinpoint imaging and micro-detail retrieval, it offers a more relaxed, room-friendly presentation that many listeners will find more enjoyable for everyday listening. The price difference could be invested in other system components like a quality subwoofer or room treatment, potentially resulting in better overall system performance for many users. The Q350's strengths in soundstage coherence and placement flexibility make it a particularly compelling choice for home theater applications where multiple listening positions are common.
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The KEF LS50 Meta takes a distinctly different approach to sound reproduction, most notably with its innovative Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) and Uni-Q driver array. This technology effectively absorbs 99% of unwanted sound behind the tweeter, resulting in noticeably cleaner and more precise high frequencies. The Uni-Q driver, which places the tweeter at the acoustic center of the midrange cone, creates an exceptionally coherent sound field with precise imaging that remains consistent across a wider listening area. While it doesn't reach as deep in the bass as the 707 S2 (-3dB at 79Hz vs 45Hz), it offers tighter, more controlled low frequencies that particularly complement acoustic music and vocals.
At $899, the LS50 Meta presents an attractive alternative for those prioritizing absolute precision over dynamic impact. It excels in small to medium rooms where its controlled bass response and precise imaging work to greatest effect. The speaker's neutral presentation and exceptional detail retrieval make it particularly suited to near-field listening setups, though it requires careful placement to perform its best. While both speakers represent excellent value in their price range, the choice between them often comes down to room size and listening preferences - the LS50 Meta favoring precision and clarity, while the 707 S2 delivers more dynamic impact and scale.
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The Polk Audio Monitor XT15 ($199) offers remarkable value with its Hi-Res certification and versatile performance characteristics. Its higher 86dB sensitivity makes it easier to drive with modest amplification, while the Terylene dome tweeter extends frequency response up to 40kHz. The bi-laminate paper cone woofer delivers punchy bass that, while not as controlled as the 707 S2's, provides engaging performance for both music and movies. The included wall-mounting capability adds placement flexibility that many users will appreciate.
While the XT15 can't match the 707 S2's refined sound quality and precise imaging, it delivers impressive performance at just one-fifth of the price. For casual listeners and those building their first serious audio system, the Polk XT15 hits a sweet spot between performance and affordability. It works particularly well in home theater applications where its slightly forward presentation helps with dialogue clarity, and its forgiving nature makes it an excellent match for standard AV receivers. The build quality, while not premium, is solid enough to provide years of reliable service, making it an excellent entry point into high-fidelity audio.
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The $209 Polk Audio Signature Elite ES15 takes a different approach, focusing on accessibility and versatility rather than absolute performance. Its higher 88dB sensitivity makes it easier to drive with modest amplification, while its Terylene dome tweeter and Power Port technology deliver surprisingly capable performance for the price point. The ES15's Hi-Res Audio certification and compatibility with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X formats make it particularly appealing for mixed-use scenarios, especially in home theater applications where multiple speakers are needed.
While it can't match the 707 S2's refined detail retrieval and precise imaging, the ES15 offers remarkable value with its more forgiving nature and flexible placement options. Its wider sweet spot and ability to perform well in less-than-ideal room conditions make it a practical choice for real-world listening environments. At less than a quarter of the price of the B&W speakers, the ES15 represents an excellent entry point into high-fidelity audio, delivering engaging sound quality that belies its modest price tag. For listeners prioritizing value or building a complete surround sound system on a budget, the ES15 presents a compelling alternative that doesn't demand premium amplification or perfect room acoustics to perform well.
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The $299 SVS Prime Bookshelf Speakers offer remarkable value with performance that punches well above their price point. Their slightly larger 6.5-inch polypropylene woofer and carefully tuned port deliver deeper bass extension to 48Hz, providing more robust low-end performance without a subwoofer. The aluminum dome tweeter and optimized crossover design create a neutral, balanced presentation that works particularly well for both music and home theater applications. While they may not match the 707 S2's ultimate resolution and detail retrieval, they provide a more forgiving sound signature that remains engaging during long listening sessions.
What's most impressive about the SVS Prime is how close they come to the 707 S2's performance at just one-third the price. Their higher sensitivity (87dB vs 84dB) makes them easier to drive with modest amplification, and their excellent dynamics serve well for both critical music listening and home theater use. While they utilize more conventional materials and lack some of B&W's proprietary innovations, the SVS Prime's thoughtful engineering and practical design choices result in a speaker that many listeners might actually prefer for real-world use, especially in multi-channel systems where the cost multiplier becomes significant.
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The $332 Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M takes a notably different approach to sound reproduction, employing Klipsch's signature horn-loaded tweeter design and a larger 6.5" Cerametallic woofer. This combination delivers a more dynamic, forward presentation with significantly higher sensitivity at 96dB, making it much easier to drive with modest amplification. The horn technology projects sound more efficiently into the room, creating an engaging, immediate presence that particularly excels with rock, pop, and home theater content. Bass performance is more prominent than the 707 S2, though not quite as controlled, and the overall sound signature tends toward excitement rather than absolute accuracy.
At roughly one-third the price of the 707 S2, the RP-600M offers exceptional value while serving different listening preferences. Its more efficient design makes it particularly well-suited to larger rooms and lower-powered amplifiers, while its dynamic sound character can make everyday listening more engaging. While it may not match the 707 S2's refined detail retrieval and precision imaging, the RP-600M delivers impressive performance that often punches above its price point. For listeners prioritizing impact and excitement over absolute neutrality, or those working with more modest amplification, the RP-600M presents a compelling alternative that leaves budget available for other system components.
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The Klipsch Reference R-41M takes a different approach to sound reproduction at a significantly lower price point of $169. Its signature Tractrix horn-loaded tweeter design creates an immediately engaging, dynamic presentation that works particularly well for home theater applications. The speaker's high 90dB sensitivity means it can play loud with modest amplification, and its punchy, forward sound signature makes dialogue and movie effects especially clear. While it may not match the 707 S2's refined detail retrieval and bass control, the R-41M delivers impressive performance for its size and price point.
For buyers considering both options, the R-41M represents exceptional value and serves as an excellent entry point into quality audio. Its more forgiving nature regarding placement and amplification makes it an ideal choice for those building their first system or setting up secondary rooms. While it won't deliver the same level of audiophile refinement as the 707 S2, the Klipsch R-41M offers energetic, room-filling sound that remains engaging for both music and movies. The significantly lower price point makes it a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers who want good performance without the premium investment.
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For those considering alternatives, the Kanto YU Passive 5.25 offers compelling value at just $179, featuring a well-executed 5.25" Kevlar woofer and 1" silk dome tweeter combination. Its higher 89dB sensitivity makes it easier to drive with modest amplifiers, and the speaker demonstrates good clarity and imaging capabilities that exceed expectations at this price point. The build quality is solid, with a clean, professional aesthetic that works well in modern spaces, and its more forgiving nature regarding placement makes it practical for real-world listening environments.
However, the performance gap between these speakers is significant and reflects their price difference. While the Kanto delivers enjoyable sound with decent bass extension to 50Hz, it can't match the B&W's precision, detail retrieval, or dynamic capabilities. The Kanto's simpler driver technology and cabinet construction result in less refined bass control and a more limited soundstage. That said, for listeners building their first high-fidelity system or seeking quality sound on a budget, the Kanto YU Passive 5.25 represents excellent value and serves as a worthy entry point into serious audio reproduction.
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When looking at alternatives, the Polk Reserve R100 stands out as a compelling option at $649, offering remarkable value with its Ring Radiator tweeter and Turbine cone technology. The R100's slightly higher sensitivity at 86dB makes it easier to drive with modest amplification, and its more forgiving nature with room placement and audio source quality makes it particularly attractive for real-world listening environments. The speaker's X-Port technology helps deliver clean, extended bass response while minimizing distortion, though it doesn't quite match the B&W's precision in the lower frequencies.
Where the Polk really shines is in its price-to-performance ratio, delivering about 85-90% of the B&W's performance at roughly two-thirds the cost. While it may not match the 707 S2's exceptional imaging precision and ultimate detail retrieval, the R100 provides a more relaxed, warmer presentation that many listeners might actually prefer for long-term enjoyment. This makes it an especially practical choice for home theater applications where multiple pairs are needed, or for listeners who want high-quality sound without the premium price tag. The R100's more forgiving nature with streaming content and compressed audio sources also makes it a better fit for casual listening environments.
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The 606 S3 represents B&W's latest technological advancement in bookshelf speakers, featuring their new titanium dome tweeter and a larger 6.5-inch Continuum cone driver, all at a more accessible $550 price point. Its higher 88dB sensitivity makes it notably easier to drive with modest amplification, and the larger driver delivers more impactful bass response without sacrificing detail. The updated cabinet design and crossover network borrowed from B&W's premium lines result in a more engaging, dynamic presentation that works particularly well for both music and home theater applications, while maintaining a more forgiving nature when it comes to room placement and system matching.
Where the 707 S2 excels in analytical precision, the 606 S3 offers a more versatile and energetic performance that many listeners find more enjoyable for everyday listening. Its more forward presentation and superior bass extension provide immediate satisfaction, while the newer titanium dome tweeter delivers exceptionally smooth high frequencies without sacrificing detail. While it may not match the 707 S2's ultimate refinement in an optimized setup, the 606 S3's combination of latest-generation technology, superior real-world practicality, and significantly lower price point makes it a more compelling choice for most users, particularly those who want excellent performance without the demands of precise room acoustics and high-end amplification.
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👌Bowers & Wilkins 606 S3 Bookshelf Speaker - Pair Details
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