High-End vs Budget Bookshelf Speakers: Making the Right Choice

When it comes to bookshelf speakers, the gap between entry-level and premium options can be vast. Today we're comparing the high-end Bowers & Wilkins 707 S2 ($959) with the budget-friendly Polk Audio Monitor XT15 ($199) to help you understand what you get at different price points and who should consider each option.

Understanding Bookshelf Speakers in 2024

Bookshelf speakers remain a popular choice for both music and home theater, offering a compelling balance of performance and space efficiency. While soundbars have dominated the market lately, traditional speakers still provide superior sound quality and flexibility for serious listeners.

These two models represent different approaches to bookshelf speaker design. The B&W 707 S2, released in 2017, showcases premium technologies that have trickled down from their flagship 800 Series Diamond line. The Polk XT15, a more recent 2022 release, focuses on delivering maximum value while incorporating some modern features like Hi-Res certification.

Performance Deep Dive

Sound Quality and Character

The B&W 707 S2 delivers exceptional detail and accuracy, thanks to its Carbon Dome tweeter (a stiff, lightweight dome that can reproduce frequencies up to 47kHz without distorting). This results in remarkably clear highs and precise imaging - meaning you can easily pinpoint where instruments are positioned in the soundstage. The Continuum cone (B&W's proprietary woven material) handles midrange frequencies with a natural, uncolored sound that's especially noticeable with vocals and acoustic instruments.

The Polk XT15 takes a different approach with its Terylene dome tweeter and bi-laminate paper cone woofer. While it can't match the B&W's resolution, it produces an engaging sound with prominent highs and respectable bass. The treble can be somewhat bright, especially with poorly recorded material, but most listeners will find it energetic and detailed for the price point.

Bass Response and Power Handling

B&W's Flowport technology (a dimpled port design that reduces turbulence) helps the 707 S2 produce controlled, accurate bass down to 50Hz. While you won't get subwoofer-level lows, the bass quality is exceptional - tight, detailed, and well-integrated with the overall sound.

The Polk XT15 actually extends slightly lower on paper to 48Hz, but the quality of that bass is different. It's more prominent but less controlled, which can be fun for movies and modern music but might not satisfy purists. However, the XT15's higher sensitivity (86dB vs 84dB) means it's easier to drive with modest amplification.

Imaging and Soundstage

This is where the price difference becomes most apparent. The 707 S2's advanced drivers and careful engineering create a expansive, three-dimensional soundstage that extends well beyond the speakers' physical locations. Individual instruments and voices are precisely placed within this space, creating an immersive listening experience.

The Polk XT15 presents a more conventional soundstage that's primarily between the speakers. While it can certainly fill a room with sound, the spatial presentation is less precise and immersive. This might not matter for casual listening but becomes noticeable with well-recorded classical music or movie soundtracks.

Technical Requirements and Setup

Amplification Needs

The B&W 707 S2 is relatively demanding of amplification. Its 84dB sensitivity and 4-ohm minimum impedance mean it needs a quality amplifier delivering 30-100 watts per channel. You won't get the best from these speakers with a budget receiver.

The Polk XT15 is more forgiving, working well with anything from basic receivers to separate amplifiers. Its 86dB sensitivity and 8-ohm impedance make it an easier load to drive, though it can handle up to 150 watts for those with more powerful amps.

Room Placement and Optimization

Both speakers benefit from proper placement, but the 707 S2 is more sensitive to positioning. It needs at least 50cm from walls and performs best on rigid stands. The included foam port plugs allow fine-tuning of bass response for different room positions.

The XT15 is more flexible, working reasonably well in various positions including wall mounting via its keyhole mount. While careful placement will improve performance, it's less critical than with the B&W.

Build Quality and Longevity

The 707 S2 showcases premium materials throughout - from its rigid cabinet with multiple finishes to its high-end binding posts and carefully engineered crossover components. These speakers are built to last decades with proper care.

The XT15 is well-built for its price point, with a solid MDF cabinet and decent quality terminals. While it may not have the same long-term durability as the B&W, it's certainly capable of providing many years of service.

Value Proposition

The key question is whether the B&W's performance advantages justify its significantly higher price. For critical listeners and those building high-end systems, the answer is often yes. The 707 S2's superior resolution, imaging, and refinement are immediately apparent in good systems.

However, the Polk XT15 delivers remarkable performance for its price point. For many listeners, especially those using modest electronics or primarily watching movies and casual music listening, the XT15 represents better value.

How to Decide

Consider these key factors when choosing between these speakers:

1. Budget and System Context
   • If you're investing in a reference-quality system with matching electronics, the 707 S2 makes sense
   • For modest systems or budget constraints, the XT15 offers excellent value
2. Primary Use Case
   • Critical music listening → 707 S2
   • Mixed-use/home theater → Either option, depending on budget
   • Background music/casual listening → XT15
3. Room and Placement
   • Dedicated listening room → 707 S2
   • Flexible placement needs → XT15
   • Small spaces → Either works well
4. Future Plans
   • Building long-term reference system → 707 S2
   • Starting audio journey → XT15
   • Temporary or secondary system → XT15

The B&W 707 S2 and Polk XT15 represent different but valid approaches to bookshelf speaker design. The 707 S2 showcases what's possible when cost is less constrained, while the XT15 demonstrates how much performance can be achieved on a budget. Choose based on your specific needs, system context, and long-term audio goals.

Bowers & Wilkins 707 S2 Bookshelf Speaker - Pair Deals and Prices

Polk Audio Monitor XT15 Bookshelf Speaker Pair Deals and Prices