When diving into the world of premium bookshelf speakers, two models frequently come up in discussions: the $959 Bowers & Wilkins 707 S2 and the $332 Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M. Released in 2017 and 2018 respectively, these speakers represent different philosophies in high-fidelity audio reproduction, each with their own compelling advantages.
Bookshelf speakers remain the sweet spot for many audio enthusiasts, offering an ideal balance between performance and practicality. They're more versatile than floor-standing towers while potentially delivering superior sound to smaller speakers. The key is understanding how different design approaches affect real-world performance.
Today's premium bookshelf speakers benefit from advanced materials and manufacturing techniques that weren't available a decade ago. Both the 707 S2 and RP-600M showcase these improvements, though in distinctly different ways.
The 707 S2 employs B&W's Continuum cone technology, which replaces the traditional Kevlar drivers B&W was known for. This material provides better controlled break-up behavior (how the cone flexes at different frequencies), resulting in more natural midrange reproduction. The carbon dome tweeter, reaching up to 47kHz, delivers extraordinary detail without harshness.
The RP-600M takes a different path with its horn-loaded tweeter design. The Tractrix horn (think of it as an acoustic megaphone) increases efficiency and controls sound dispersion. Combined with the Cerametallic woofer (a specially treated aluminum cone), it creates a highly dynamic sound signature with impressive sensitivity at 96dB - meaning it needs less power to play loud.
The B&W 707 S2's carbon tweeter reveals subtle details in music that many speakers miss. You'll hear the slight intake of breath before a vocalist starts singing or the gentle decay of cymbal strikes. The Klipsch handles detail differently - while not quite as refined, it presents a more immediate, engaging sound that many listeners find more exciting.
Despite their compact size, both speakers handle bass impressively:
The Klipsch's larger 6.5" driver (versus B&W's 5") helps deliver more bass quantity, though the B&W offers slightly better definition in the lower registers.
Here's where personal preference really matters. The B&W creates a wider, more three-dimensional soundstage with precise instrument placement. The Klipsch presents a more forward sound, as if moving the performance a few rows closer. Both approaches have their merits - think gallery viewing versus front-row concert seats.
Both speakers excel in home theater setups, but with different strengths. The Klipsch's higher sensitivity makes it easier to drive, and its dynamic sound works wonderfully for movie effects. The B&W offers more refined dialogue reproduction and better blends with surround effects.
Room size and acoustics significantly impact speaker performance:
The Klipsch RP-600M is notably easier to drive, working well with modestly powered amplifiers (50W or less). The B&W 707 S2 benefits from more powerful, higher-quality amplification to reach its full potential.
Both speakers are built to last, but with different approaches:
Both designs incorporate technologies that remain current:
The price difference between these speakers ($959 vs $332) is substantial, but the value equation isn't straightforward. The B&W offers:
The Klipsch delivers:
Choose the B&W 707 S2 if:
Choose the Klipsch RP-600M if:
Both the B&W 707 S2 and Klipsch RP-600M represent excellent choices in their respective price brackets. The B&W offers ultimate refinement at a premium price, while the Klipsch delivers exceptional value with a more exciting sound signature. Your choice should align with your listening preferences, room characteristics, and associated equipment.
| Bowers & Wilkins 707 S2 ($959) | Klipsch RP-600M ($332) |
|---|---|
| Sensitivity - Determines how much amplifier power is needed | |
| 84dB - Requires more powerful amplification | 96dB - Works well with lower-powered amps |
| Frequency Response - Shows the range of sound reproduction | |
| 50Hz - 28kHz (±3dB) - Extremely accurate across range | 45Hz - 25kHz (±3dB) - Slightly deeper bass extension |
| Driver Size - Affects bass capability and overall output | |
| 5" mid/bass driver - Tighter control but less output | 6.5" woofer - More bass impact and volume capability |
| Tweeter Design - Influences high-frequency detail and dispersion | |
| 1" Carbon Dome - Superior detail and refinement | 1" Titanium LTS with Tractrix Horn - More dynamic, efficient output |
| Impedance - Affects amplifier compatibility | |
| 8Ω (minimum 4.0Ω) - More demanding load | 8Ω - Easier load for amplifiers |
| Power Handling - Shows maximum safe power input | |
| 30W - 100W - Requires quality amplification | 100W continuous/400W peak - More flexible with power |
| Dimensions - Important for placement planning | |
| 11" x 6.5" x 10.2" - Compact and room-friendly | 15.7" x 8" x 11.9" - Larger cabinet size |
| Weight - Affects stability and cabinet resonance | |
| 6.0kg (13.2 lb) - Solid build | 7.3kg (16 lb) - More substantial cabinet |
| Special Features - Unique technologies that affect performance | |
| Continuum cone, Carbon dome tweeter, Flowport | Horn-loaded tweeter, Cerametallic woofer, Tractrix port |
| Finish Options - Aesthetic choices available | |
| Gloss Black, Satin White, Rosenut - Premium finishes | Ebony, Walnut, Piano Black - Good variety |
The $959 B&W 707 S2 offers more refined, accurate sound while the $332 Klipsch RP-600M provides more dynamic, engaging performance at a lower price. Neither is strictly "better" - it depends on your preferences and budget.
The B&W 707 S2 costs $959, while the Klipsch RP-600M is priced at $332, making it nearly one-third the cost.
The Klipsch RP-600M excels in home theater applications due to its higher sensitivity and dynamic sound, though the B&W 707 S2 offers superior dialogue clarity.
The Klipsch RP-600M works well with modest amplifiers due to its 96dB sensitivity. The B&W 707 S2 requires more powerful, higher-quality amplification for optimal performance.
The B&W 707 S2 is more suitable for small rooms due to its compact size and controlled bass response. The Klipsch RP-600M may be too powerful for very small spaces.
The Klipsch RP-600M delivers more prominent bass with greater impact, while the B&W 707 S2 offers tighter, more controlled bass. Both extend to around 45Hz.
Both speakers perform excellently with streamed music. The B&W 707 S2 reveals more detail in high-quality streams, while the Klipsch RP-600M makes the most of lower-quality streams.
The B&W 707 S2 features premium materials and finish quality, while the Klipsch RP-600M offers robust construction at a lower price point. Both are well-built.
The Klipsch RP-600M's dynamic, energetic presentation makes it particularly well-suited for rock music. The B&W 707 S2 offers a more neutral, refined approach.
While both speakers provide good bass for their size, adding a subwoofer would benefit either model for full-range music listening or home theater use.
Both the B&W 707 S2 and Klipsch RP-600M use current technology and should remain competitive for many years. The B&W's premium build quality may give it a slight edge in longevity.
The Klipsch RP-600M is more flexible in placement due to its horn design and higher sensitivity. The B&W 707 S2 requires more careful placement for optimal performance.
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 - f072605def1c9a5ef179-a0bc3fbf1884fc0965506ae2b946e1cd.ssl.cf2.rackcdn.com - erinsaudiocorner.com - stereophile.com - klipsch.com - adorama.com - assets.klipsch.com - bhphotovideo.com
