Choosing Between Modern Bookshelf Speakers: B&W 606 S3 vs Klipsch RP-500M II

When it comes to high-quality bookshelf speakers, the $550 Bowers & Wilkins 606 S3 and $234 Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M II represent two different philosophies in speaker design. Let's explore how these speakers compare and what makes each special for different types of listeners.

Understanding Bookshelf Speakers in 2024

Bookshelf speakers remain the sweet spot for many music lovers, offering an excellent balance of performance and practicality. They're versatile enough to serve as main speakers in smaller rooms or as high-quality surrounds in a home theater setup. Unlike floor-standing speakers, they can be positioned on stands or shelves, making them ideal for apartments or rooms where space is at a premium.

Recent Updates and Technology

The B&W 606 S3, released in late 2023, represents the latest evolution of B&W's acclaimed 600 series. The most significant upgrade is the new Titanium Dome tweeter, which borrows technology from their premium 700 and 800 series speakers. This tweeter uses a lightweight titanium dome that moves more precisely than previous aluminum versions, resulting in clearer high frequencies and better detail.

The Klipsch RP-500M II, launched in 2022, builds upon Klipsch's traditional strengths while addressing some criticisms of earlier models. The redesigned Tractrix horn (a specially shaped waveguide that helps control how sound spreads into the room) now offers wider, more even dispersion, meaning you don't have to sit in exactly the right spot to get good sound.

Sound Character and Performance

Bass Response

Both speakers handle bass differently, which significantly impacts their overall sound. The B&W's 6.5-inch Continuum cone woofer (a special composite material developed by B&W) produces tight, accurate bass that extends down to 52Hz. This means you'll hear most music's fundamental notes, though the lowest bass in electronic music or pipe organs would benefit from a subwoofer.

The Klipsch uses a similarly sized Cerametallic woofer (aluminum with a ceramic coating), reaching slightly lower to 50Hz. However, the Klipsch tends to sound more impactful and dynamic in the bass region, which can be exciting for rock and pop music but might not be as strictly accurate for classical recordings.

Midrange Performance

This is where these speakers show their different design philosophies most clearly. The 606 S3 presents voices and instruments with remarkable neutrality. Its Continuum cone, developed through years of research, avoids the slight colorations that can make speakers sound obviously "speakery." Listening to acoustic music or vocal performances through the B&Ws can be revelatory – you hear the natural timbre of instruments and voices without artificial emphasis.

The RP-500M II takes a more dramatic approach. Its horn-loaded tweeter and dynamic woofer create an engaging, forward presentation that makes music feel more immediate. Voices are pushed slightly forward in the mix, and instruments have added presence. While not strictly neutral, many listeners find this presentation more exciting, especially for rock and pop music.

High Frequency Detail

Both speakers handle high frequencies expertly but in distinct ways. The B&W's titanium dome tweeter, decoupled from the cabinet to prevent vibration interference, delivers smooth, extended highs with excellent detail. You'll hear the shimmer of cymbals and the air around instruments without any harshness.

Klipsch's horn-loaded tweeter design, a company hallmark for over 75 years, projects high frequencies with remarkable efficiency. This creates a sense of immediacy and detail that can be thrilling, though some listeners might find it slightly aggressive on bright recordings.

Practical Considerations

Amplification Needs

Here's where the differences become practical. The Klipsch RP-500M II is notably more efficient (92dB sensitivity) compared to the B&W 606 S3 (88dB sensitivity). In real terms, this means the Klipsch needs less amplifier power to play at the same volume. A modest 50-watt receiver will drive them easily, while the B&Ws benefit from more powerful, higher-quality amplification.

Room Placement

The B&Ws are more particular about placement, requiring some space behind them for their rear-firing ports to work properly. They also benefit from careful positioning and toe-in (angling toward the listening position) to sound their best. The Klipsch speakers are more forgiving, thanks to their horn design, which controls sound dispersion more effectively.

Home Theater Use

Both speakers can excel in home theater applications, but their characteristics suggest different roles. The Klipsch's higher sensitivity and dynamic character make them excellent for movie soundtracks, where sudden impacts and explosive effects benefit from their punchy presentation. The B&Ws might be better suited for someone who watches lots of dialogue-driven content or uses their system primarily for music with occasional movie duty.

Value Proposition

At $234, the Klipsch represents exceptional value, delivering engaging sound and solid build quality at a price that's hard to beat. The B&W's $550 price tag requires more justification, but their refined sound quality and premium construction make them worth considering for critical listeners who prioritize accuracy over impact.

How to Decide

Choose the Klipsch RP-500M II if you:

• Have a tighter budget
• Use a modest amplifier or receiver
• Prefer an exciting, dynamic sound
• Watch lots of action movies
• Need speakers that work well in various positions

Choose the B&W 606 S3 if you:

• Have a higher-quality amplifier
• Prioritize accuracy and neutrality
• Listen primarily to acoustic music
• Can optimize speaker placement
• Want speakers that will scale well with future upgrades

For most people, the Klipsch offers better value and easier integration into existing systems. However, if absolute sound quality is your priority and you have the associated equipment to match, the B&Ws represent the more refined choice. Their ability to disappear into the music while revealing every detail makes them worth the premium for discerning listeners.

Remember, both speakers represent significant improvements over their predecessors and either choice will provide years of musical enjoyment when properly matched with your system and preferences.

Bowers & Wilkins 606 S3 Bookshelf Speaker - Pair Deals and Prices

Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M II Bookshelf Speakers Deals and Prices