When diving into the world of high-quality bookshelf speakers, two standout options are the Bowers & Wilkins 707 S2 ($959) and the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M ($234). Let's explore how these speakers stack up and help you decide which might be right for your setup.
Bookshelf speakers serve as the backbone of many high-quality audio systems, offering a sweet spot between size and performance. Unlike floor-standing towers, these compact performers need to make intelligent compromises to deliver full-range sound from a smaller cabinet. The key is how well they manage these trade-offs.
Both the 707 S2 and RP-500M represent different approaches to this challenge. Released in 2017, the 707 S2 brought B&W's premium technology downstream from their flagship 800 series. The RP-500M, introduced later, builds on Klipsch's long heritage of high-efficiency designs.
B&W aims for studio-grade accuracy with their Continuum cone technology (a woven composite material that replaced their famous yellow Kevlar), while Klipsch emphasizes dynamics and efficiency through their horn-loaded tweeter design. These fundamental approaches color everything about how these speakers perform.
The 707 S2's Continuum cone handles mid-bass and midrange frequencies with exceptional control - think of it like a well-damped sports car suspension that keeps everything precise and composed. Klipsch's Cerametallic woofer and horn-loaded tweeter, on the other hand, are more like a muscle car - powerful, exciting, and always ready to rock.
B&W's Carbon Dome tweeter, which breaks up (begins distorting) at a remarkably high 47kHz, delivers extraordinarily clean treble. Klipsch's Tractrix horn-loaded titanium tweeter focuses high frequencies directly toward the listener while increasing efficiency - imagine a megaphone for high frequencies that helps the speaker play louder with less power.
The 707 S2 presents music with remarkable neutrality and refinement. Voices sound natural and uncolored, while instruments maintain their distinctive timbres. It's like looking through a perfectly clean window - you're getting an honest view of the recording.
The RP-500M brings more immediate excitement to the table. Its horn-loaded tweeter and efficient design create a more forward, dynamic presentation that makes music feel more energetic. This can be particularly engaging with rock, pop, and movie soundtracks.
Here's where the price difference becomes apparent. The 707 S2's Carbon Dome tweeter and Continuum cone reveal subtle details in recordings - things like the subtle decay of cymbal hits or the breath of a vocalist - with remarkable clarity. The RP-500M performs admirably but doesn't quite match this level of micro-detail retrieval.
Despite similar specs (45Hz vs 48Hz at the low end), these speakers handle bass quite differently. The 707 S2 produces tighter, more controlled bass that prioritizes accuracy over impact. The RP-500M delivers punchy, dynamic bass that might be more satisfying for rock and home theater use, even if it's not quite as precise.
This is perhaps the most significant practical difference between these speakers. The RP-500M's 93dB sensitivity means it needs just one-eighth the power of the 707 S2 (84dB) to reach the same volume levels. For context, this means a 50-watt amplifier will drive the Klipsch to the same volume levels that would require a 400-watt amp with the B&W.
The price difference here is substantial - you could buy four pairs of RP-500Ms for the cost of one pair of 707 S2s. The B&W speakers offer superior refinement and detail, but the Klipsch delivers remarkable performance for the price, especially in terms of dynamics and efficiency.
Both speakers are well-built, but B&W's finish quality is notably superior. The 707 S2's cabinet feels more inert (less prone to vibration), and the finish options are more premium. The RP-500M is solidly constructed but more utilitarian in its approach.
The 707 S2's more neutral sound makes it somewhat more room-sensitive - it won't mask acoustic problems. The RP-500M's more forward presentation can help it cut through in less-than-ideal rooms, though both speakers benefit from proper placement and room treatment.
For home theater, the RP-500M's higher sensitivity and dynamic capability make it an excellent choice, especially in larger rooms or when using modest amplification. The 707 S2 can certainly excel in home theater but requires more powerful amplification to deliver similar impact.
Consider your priorities:
Both speakers represent excellent choices within their respective price points. The 707 S2 is the more technically accomplished performer, but the RP-500M's combination of performance, efficiency, and value makes it an incredibly compelling option for many users. Your choice should ultimately depend on your room, amplification, and how you plan to use the speakers.
| Bowers & Wilkins 707 S2 | Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-500M |
|---|---|
| Price - Significant cost difference impacts value proposition | |
| $959 | $234 |
| Sensitivity - Determines how much amplifier power is needed | |
| 84dB - Requires powerful amplification | 93dB - Easy to drive with modest amplifiers |
| Frequency Response - Indicates bass extension and overall tonal balance | |
| 50Hz - 28kHz (±3dB) - Slightly deeper bass | 48Hz - 25kHz (±3dB) - Similar extension |
| Power Handling - Shows amplification flexibility | |
| 30W - 100W recommended | 75W - 300W peak |
| Driver Configuration - Key to sound character | |
| 1" Carbon Dome tweeter, 5" Continuum cone woofer - Premium materials | 1" Titanium LTS tweeter with Tractrix horn, 5.25" Cerametallic woofer |
| Cabinet Size - Important for placement flexibility | |
| 11" H x 6.5" W x 10.2" D - Compact | 13.5" H x 6.8" W x 9.5" D - Slightly larger |
| Weight - Indicates cabinet construction | |
| 13.2 lbs - Dense, well-damped cabinet | 12 lbs - Solid construction |
| Finishes Available - Aesthetic considerations | |
| Gloss Black, Satin White, Rosenut - Premium finishes | Ebony, Walnut, Piano Black - Traditional options |
| Design Approach - Defines core sound character | |
| Neutral, detailed, studio-monitor approach | Dynamic, efficient, horn-loaded design |
| Recommended Room Size - Critical for optimal performance | |
| Small to medium rooms, benefits from careful placement | Medium to large rooms, more placement flexible |
The B&W 707 S2 offers superior detail and refinement, while the Klipsch RP-500M provides better value and efficiency. The B&W excels in accuracy, while the Klipsch delivers more dynamic sound. Neither is strictly "better" - it depends on your needs and budget.
The Bowers & Wilkins 707 S2 costs $959, while the Klipsch RP-500M is priced at $234. The significant price difference reflects B&W's premium components and build quality.
The Klipsch RP-500M is generally better suited for home theater due to its higher sensitivity and dynamic sound. The 707 S2 can perform well but requires more powerful amplification to achieve similar volume levels.
The Klipsch RP-500M is highly efficient (93dB sensitivity) and works well with modest amplifiers. The B&W 707 S2 (84dB sensitivity) requires more powerful amplification to perform its best.
The B&W 707 S2 excels at detailed music listening with superior accuracy and refinement. The Klipsch RP-500M offers a more engaging, dynamic sound that some listeners prefer, especially for rock and pop music.
The B&W 707 S2 is slightly more compact at 11" tall, while the Klipsch RP-500M is larger at 13.5" tall. Both are standard bookshelf speaker sizes suitable for stands or shelves.
Both speakers can benefit from a subwoofer for full-range sound, especially for home theater use. However, both perform well on their own for music, reaching down to around 48Hz.
Both speakers are well-built, but the B&W 707 S2 features premium materials and finish. The RP-500M is also sturdy with a more traditional construction approach.
While both can technically be wall-mounted, neither manufacturer recommends it. Both speakers perform best on stands away from walls due to their rear-ported designs.
The Klipsch RP-500M offers exceptional value at $234, delivering impressive performance for the price. While the 707 S2 offers superior performance in some areas, its higher price makes it a premium option rather than a value choice.
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 - erinsaudiocorner.com - crutchfield.ca - target.com - bestbuy.com - youtube.com - f072605def1c9a5ef179-a0bc3fbf1884fc0965506ae2b946e1cd.ssl.cf2.rackcdn.com - snapav.com - crutchfield.com - d2um2qdswy1tb0.cloudfront.net - youtube.com - sweetwater.com - audioadvisor.com
