When it comes to bookshelf speakers, the choice between the $959 Bowers & Wilkins 707 S2 and the $209 Polk Audio Signature Elite ES15 represents a classic audiophile dilemma: investing in premium sound versus finding the sweet spot of value. Let's dive into what makes each speaker unique and help you decide which best fits your needs.
Bookshelf speakers remain a cornerstone of quality audio systems, offering a compelling mix of performance and space efficiency. These compact speakers can serve as your main stereo pair, rear surrounds in a home theater, or near-field monitors for closer listening.
Modern bookshelf speakers have evolved significantly, incorporating advanced materials and design techniques that were once reserved for flagship models. The B&W 707 S2, released in 2017, showcases this trickle-down technology with its Carbon Dome tweeter and Continuum cone - innovations first developed for their ultra-premium 800 Series. Meanwhile, the Polk ES15 represents a more recent approach to value-oriented performance, utilizing modern materials like Terylene in its tweeter design to achieve high-resolution audio certification.
The 707 S2 demonstrates its premium heritage through exceptional imaging - that's the speaker's ability to create a precise three-dimensional soundstage where instruments and vocals appear to come from specific points in space. Its Carbon Dome tweeter, which remains stable up to 47kHz, delivers remarkably detailed high frequencies without harshness. The Continuum cone midrange driver (a proprietary B&W technology) handles vocal reproduction with exceptional clarity and natural tone.
In contrast, the Polk ES15 takes a more forgiving approach. While it can't match the precise imaging of the B&W, it offers a wider sweet spot - meaning you don't have to sit in exactly the right position to get good sound. Its Terylene tweeter extends to 40kHz, which is impressive at this price point and ensures compatibility with high-resolution audio sources.
Despite their compact size, both speakers handle bass differently. The 707 S2's Flowport technology reduces turbulence in the bass port, resulting in cleaner, more controlled low frequencies. However, its lower sensitivity (84dB) means it needs more powerful amplification to perform its best - think at least 50 watts per channel from a quality amplifier.
The ES15's Power Port technology takes a different approach to bass enhancement, focusing on smooth airflow transition. With higher sensitivity (88dB), it's easier to drive with modest amplifiers, making it more forgiving with budget receivers. While the bass isn't as refined as the B&W, it's punchy and satisfying for most listening scenarios.
Speaker placement significantly impacts performance, and these models have different requirements. The 707 S2 demands careful positioning - ideally at least 20cm from walls, on rigid stands, and with precise toe-in (angling toward the listening position). When properly set up, they disappear sonically, creating an immersive soundstage.
The ES15 is more flexible, performing well in various positions and room types. This adaptability makes them excellent for real-world situations where perfect placement isn't possible, such as on bookshelves or in multi-purpose rooms.
Both speakers excel in home theater applications, but in different ways. The 707 S2's precise imaging and detail retrieval make them outstanding for front left/right channels, where they can accurately place sound effects and dialogue. Their refined performance particularly shines with high-quality movie soundtracks and music videos.
The ES15's Hi-Res Audio certification and Dolby Atmos/DTS:X compatibility make them versatile home theater performers. Their more forgiving nature works well for surround channels, where precise imaging is less critical. They're also an excellent choice for building a complete surround system without breaking the bank.
The price difference between these speakers raises important considerations about value. The B&W 707 S2 represents a significant investment but offers several long-term advantages:
The Polk ES15 presents compelling value:
Consider these key factors when making your choice:
Both speakers represent different philosophies in achieving high-quality sound. The 707 S2 showcases what's possible when cost isn't the primary constraint, while the ES15 demonstrates how modern technology can deliver engaging performance at a more accessible price point. Your choice ultimately depends on your priorities, budget, and how you plan to use them in your space.
| Bowers & Wilkins 707 S2 ($959) | Polk Audio Signature Elite ES15 ($209) |
|---|---|
| Size - Impacts placement flexibility and bass response | |
| 11" x 6.5" x 10.2" | 12" x 7.5" x 10.2" |
| Weight - Indicates build quality and cabinet construction | |
| 13.2 lbs | 13 lbs |
| Sensitivity - Determines how much power is needed | |
| 84dB (requires more powerful amp) | 88dB (easier to drive) |
| Frequency Response - Range of audible sound reproduction | |
| 50Hz - 28kHz (±3dB) | 48Hz - 40kHz |
| Tweeter Design - Affects high-frequency detail and clarity | |
| 1" Decoupled Carbon Dome (47kHz breakup) | 1" Terylene dome |
| Woofer Design - Influences midrange clarity and bass quality | |
| 5" Continuum cone (proprietary material) | 5.25" Mica-reinforced polypropylene |
| Power Handling - Amplifier power range compatibility | |
| 30-100W (demanding) | 20-100W (flexible) |
| Impedance - Affects amplifier compatibility | |
| 8Ω (minimum 4.0Ω) | 8Ω nominal |
| Port Design - Impacts bass performance | |
| Flowport rear-firing (reduced turbulence) | Power Port (enhanced bass output) |
| Build Quality - Durability and aesthetic considerations | |
| Premium materials, luxury finishes | Good quality, standard finishes |
| Warranty - Manufacturer confidence in product | |
| 5 years | 5 years |
| Key Technologies - Proprietary features affecting performance | |
| Carbon Dome tweeter, Continuum cone, Flowport | Terylene tweeter, Power Port, Dynamic Balance |
| Special Certifications - Compatibility with modern formats | |
| None specified | Hi-Res Audio, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X certified |
The $959 B&W 707 S2 offers superior musical performance with better detail, imaging, and refinement. However, the $209 Polk ES15 provides good musical performance at a significantly lower price point. For critical music listening, the 707 S2 is the better choice if budget allows.
Both work well in home theater settings. The B&W 707 S2 excels as front speakers with precise imaging, while the Polk ES15 offers excellent value and Dolby Atmos/DTS:X certification. The Polk may be more practical for complete surround systems due to its lower cost.
The B&W 707 S2 requires more powerful, higher-quality amplification due to its 84dB sensitivity. The Polk ES15 is more efficient at 88dB and works well with modest receivers, making it more flexible for most setups.
Both speakers work well in small rooms. The Polk ES15 is more forgiving with placement, making it better for tight spaces. The B&W 707 S2 needs more careful placement but can deliver superior sound in properly set up small rooms.
The B&W 707 S2 features premium build quality and materials, suggesting better longevity. The Polk ES15 is well-built for its price point, and both speakers come with 5-year warranties.
The Polk ES15 includes keyhole mounting slots for wall placement. The B&W 707 S2 is designed primarily for stand mounting and optimal performance requires proper stands.
The Polk ES15 is more forgiving and better suited for casual listening, with good sound across a wider listening area. The B&W 707 S2's precise performance is somewhat wasted in casual listening scenarios.
Both speakers benefit from a subwoofer for full-range sound, especially for home theater use. However, both perform well on their own for music, with the B&W offering slightly better bass control.
Both bookshelf speakers offer advantages in space efficiency and imaging compared to floor-standers. However, they won't match the bass extension and room-filling capability of full-size towers.
The B&W 707 S2 offers more room for system growth and will better reveal improvements in associated equipment. The Polk ES15 includes modern certifications like Hi-Res Audio and Dolby Atmos compatibility, making it technically more future-ready for digital formats.
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 - audiosciencereview.com - sweetwater.com - ooberpad.com - pcrichard.com - crutchfield.com - audiolab.com - polkaudio.com - polkaudio.com - sweetwater.com - stozzaudio.com
