Bookshelf speakers represent a sweet spot in home audio - compact enough for most rooms while capable of delivering impressive sound quality. When comparing the Bowers & Wilkins 707 S2 ($959) and KEF Q150 ($349), we're looking at two different approaches to high-fidelity sound in a bookshelf format.
Both speakers were released in 2017-2018, marking significant advances in their respective manufacturers' technologies. B&W introduced their Continuum cone material, while KEF refined their signature Uni-Q driver design. These innovations remain competitive today, showing the enduring quality of both designs.
The nearly 3x price difference between these speakers reflects their market positioning. The B&W 707 S2 targets audiophiles seeking premium performance, while the KEF Q150 offers remarkable value for those wanting high-end sound without the premium price tag.
B&W's approach uses separate drivers - a 1" Carbon Dome tweeter and 5" Continuum cone mid/bass driver. This traditional design allows each driver to be optimized for its frequency range. KEF's Uni-Q places the tweeter in the center of the mid/bass driver, creating a single point source that can improve sound coherence and imaging.
The 707 S2's Carbon Dome tweeter extends to 47kHz (well beyond human hearing), providing exceptional detail and "air" in the high frequencies. The Continuum cone delivers precise midrange that excels with vocals and acoustic instruments. Bass response is impressive for the size, reaching down to 45Hz with authority.
KEF's Q150 takes a different approach. The Uni-Q driver creates an extremely coherent sound field - instruments and voices appear to come from precise locations in space. Bass extends to 47Hz, matching the B&W on paper, though with slightly less impact. The integration between drivers is seamless, thanks to the coaxial design.
The B&W's 84dB sensitivity means it needs more power to reach the same volume as the KEF's 86dB sensitivity. Both speakers are 8-ohm designs but can dip to around 4 ohms, requiring capable amplification. The B&W particularly benefits from high-quality amplification, revealing more detail with better electronics.
Both speakers need some space from walls to perform their best, though the KEF's design is slightly more forgiving in this regard. The B&W produces a wider soundstage but requires more precise placement to achieve optimal imaging. The KEF's Uni-Q driver maintains consistent sound quality across a wider listening area.
The 707 S2 excels in:
The Q150 stands out for:
Both speakers work well in home theater setups, though their characteristics differ. The B&W's dynamic capability and precise imaging make it excellent for movie effects and dialogue. The KEF's consistent off-axis response helps create a more uniform surround sound field, beneficial for multiple seating positions.
The decision between these speakers often comes down to system matching and listening priorities. If you're building a premium system and can provide high-quality amplification, the B&W 707 S2 rewards the investment with exceptional detail and refinement. For those seeking maximum performance per dollar, or dealing with space constraints, the KEF Q150 delivers remarkable sound quality at a more accessible price point.
Consider your:
Both speakers represent different philosophies in achieving high-quality sound, and both succeed on their own terms. The B&W aims for ultimate performance with premium materials and traditional design, while KEF innovates with driver technology to deliver excellent performance at a lower price point.
Remember that speakers are highly personal choices, and if possible, listening to both in your space with your equipment is the best way to make a final decision. Both manufacturers have strong reputations for quality and support, so you can be confident in either choice matching your priorities and budget.
| Bowers & Wilkins 707 S2 | KEF Q150 |
|---|---|
| Price - Key factor in value assessment | |
| $959 (premium pricing tier) | $349 (mid-range pricing tier) |
| Driver Configuration - Affects sound cohesion and imaging | |
| Traditional separate tweeter/woofer design with Carbon Dome tweeter | Uni-Q coaxial driver with tweeter at center of mid/bass cone |
| Frequency Response - Determines sound range capability | |
| 50Hz - 28kHz (±3dB) with excellent extension | 51Hz - 28kHz (±3dB) with smooth rolloff |
| Sensitivity - Impacts amplifier power requirements | |
| 84dB (requires more powerful amp) | 86dB (easier to drive) |
| Driver Size - Affects bass capability and overall output | |
| 1" tweeter, 5" mid/bass driver | 1" tweeter, 5.25" mid/bass driver |
| Impedance - Important for amplifier compatibility | |
| 8Ω nominal (4Ω minimum) | 8Ω nominal (3.7Ω minimum) |
| Power Handling - Determines amplifier matching range | |
| 30-100W recommended | 10-100W recommended |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) - Consider space requirements | |
| 11" x 6.5" x 10.2" | 11.9" x 7.1" x 10.9" |
| Weight - Indicates cabinet construction | |
| 13.2 lbs (solid build) | 12.3 lbs (good build) |
| Key Technologies - Differentiating features | |
| Continuum cone, Carbon Dome tweeter, Flowport | Uni-Q driver array, CFD port design |
| Finish Options - Aesthetic considerations | |
| Gloss Black, Satin White, Rosenut | Black, White |
The KEF Q150 at $349 offers exceptional value for most users. While the B&W 707 S2 at $959 provides superior performance, the Q150 delivers about 80% of the performance at roughly one-third the price.
Both speakers work well in small to medium rooms (up to 300 square feet). The B&W 707 S2 can fill larger spaces more effectively due to its more robust bass response and higher-quality drivers.
The KEF Q150 is more forgiving, working well with mid-range amplifiers (50-100W). The B&W 707 S2 benefits significantly from higher-end amplification due to its lower sensitivity.
The B&W 707 S2 offers more detail and better dynamics for critical music listening. However, the KEF Q150 provides excellent musical performance with particularly good imaging due to its Uni-Q driver.
Both work well in home theater setups. The KEF Q150 offers better off-axis response for multiple seating positions, while the B&W 707 S2 provides more dynamic impact for movie effects.
Both reach similar low frequencies on paper, but the B&W 707 S2 delivers tighter, more impactful bass. The KEF Q150 provides good bass for its size but with slightly less authority.
Yes, both speakers perform best on proper stands positioned away from walls. The B&W 707 S2 is particularly stand-dependent for optimal performance.
The KEF Q150 excels in near-field situations due to its Uni-Q driver design, making it ideal for desk setups. The B&W 707 S2 typically needs more space to sound its best.
Both are well-built, but the B&W 707 S2 offers superior finish quality and more premium materials. The KEF Q150 is solidly built but with simpler finishing.
While both can be wall-mounted, neither manufacturer recommends it. Both speakers perform best with space behind them, especially the B&W 707 S2.
The KEF Q150 is more flexible regarding placement due to its Uni-Q driver design. The B&W 707 S2 requires more careful positioning for optimal performance.
Both speakers excel with streaming music when paired with a good amplifier. The KEF Q150 is particularly forgiving of lower-quality streams, while the B&W 707 S2 will reveal more detail in high-resolution content.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: whathifi.com - safeandsoundhq.com - bestbuy.com - hifichoice.com - crutchfield.com - listenup.com - digitalcinema.com.au - worldradiohistory.com - youtube.com - frankstonhifi.com.au - gearadical.com - us.kef.com - digitaltrends.com - crutchfield.com - audiosciencereview.com - ooberpad.com - bestbuy.com%20-%20Satin%20Black/5913623) - youtube.com - international.kef.com - youtube.com
