Choosing Between the B&W 707 S2 and SVS Prime Bookshelf Speakers: A Complete Guide

Bookshelf speakers remain one of the most versatile and popular choices for both music lovers and home theater enthusiasts. Today we're comparing two interesting options: the premium $959 Bowers & Wilkins 707 S2 and the value-oriented $299 SVS Prime Bookshelf Speakers. While their prices suggest very different market positions, both aim to deliver high-quality sound in compact packages.

Understanding Bookshelf Speakers in 2024

Before diving into specifics, it's worth understanding what makes bookshelf speakers special. These compact speakers typically handle frequencies from around 45Hz up through 20kHz or higher, making them suitable for most music and movie content. Their smaller size allows for precise imaging (the ability to create a precise sound location) and easy placement, though they sacrifice some bass extension compared to floor-standing speakers.

Design Philosophy and Technology

The B&W 707 S2, released in 2017, showcases several proprietary technologies. Its Carbon Dome tweeter, which extends frequency response up to 47kHz, represents a significant advancement over traditional aluminum domes. While we can't hear above 20kHz, this extended response suggests exceptional control in the audible range. The Continuum cone material, borrowed from B&W's flagship 800 series, replaced their long-standing Kevlar drivers with a more controlled break-up behavior - meaning it maintains composure during complex passages.

In contrast, the SVS Prime speakers, introduced in 2014, take a more conventional but thoroughly engineered approach. Their aluminum dome tweeter and polypropylene woofer might seem standard, but SVS has optimized their implementation through sophisticated cabinet design and crossover work. The FEA-optimized cabinet (Finite Element Analysis - computer modeling of physical behavior) demonstrates their attention to detail despite the lower price point.

Performance Characteristics

High Frequencies

The 707 S2's Carbon Dome tweeter delivers exceptional detail and air, sometimes even appearing slightly bright with certain amplification. This characteristic makes it outstanding for acoustic music and high-resolution recordings where you want to hear every nuance.

The SVS Prime's aluminum dome provides a more neutral presentation that some listeners might prefer for long sessions. While it doesn't extract quite the same level of micro-detail, it rarely draws attention to itself - a hallmark of good design.

Midrange Performance

Here's where things get interesting. The 707 S2's Continuum cone produces remarkably clear vocals and instruments, with a sense of transparency that justifies its premium price. Piano notes decay naturally, and voices maintain their character without artificial emphasis.

The SVS Prime delivers impressively balanced midrange performance that belies its price point. While it might not match the 707 S2's ultimate resolution, it presents music in a coherent, engaging way that works especially well for home theater dialogue and general music listening.

Bass Response

Despite their small size, both speakers handle bass admirably. The 707 S2 reaches down to 45Hz with exceptional control and detail, though it favors precision over impact. The SVS Prime extends slightly deeper to 48Hz and offers more robust bass output, likely due to its larger cabinet volume.

In practice, the SVS Prime might be more satisfying without a subwoofer, while the 707 S2 would benefit from careful subwoofer integration for full-range listening.

Real-World Applications

Music Listening

For dedicated music listening, the 707 S2 shows its premium heritage. Its ability to reveal recording details and create a precise soundstage makes it exceptional for critical listening. Jazz and classical music particularly benefit from its refined presentation.

The SVS Prime takes a more forgiving approach while maintaining high standards. Rock, pop, and electronic music sound engaging and dynamic, though you might miss the last bit of resolution during critical listening sessions.

Home Theater Use

Here's where the SVS Prime really shines. Its slightly more robust bass and neutral character make it ideal for movie and TV content. It also integrates seamlessly with other SVS speakers for a matched surround system.

The 707 S2 certainly works well in home theater applications, but its premium price might make a complete surround system costly. Its detailed presentation excels with well-recorded content but might emphasize flaws in compressed streaming audio.

Value Consideration

The price difference between these speakers cannot be ignored. The SVS Prime delivers remarkable performance at its price point, offering about 80% of the 707 S2's capabilities at roughly one-third the cost. For many listeners, this makes it the more practical choice.

However, the 707 S2's premium materials, advanced technology, and superior detail retrieval justify its price for dedicated audiophiles. It's worth noting that these technologies have trickled down from even more expensive speakers, making them somewhat of a value in the high-end market.

How to Decide

Choose the B&W 707 S2 if:

• You prioritize ultimate detail and resolution
• Your other components are similarly high-end
• You're building a premium stereo system
• Aesthetics are a primary concern

Choose the SVS Prime if:

• Value is a key consideration
• You're building a home theater system
• You prefer a more forgiving sound
• You need multiple pairs for surround sound

Final Thoughts

Both speakers represent excellent choices within their respective price points. The B&W 707 S2 showcases what's possible with premium materials and advanced technology, while the SVS Prime demonstrates just how good modern speakers can be at more accessible prices.

For most users, the SVS Prime represents the more practical choice, offering exceptional performance at a reasonable price. However, if you're building a high-end system and can appreciate (and afford) the additional resolution and refinement, the 707 S2 won't disappoint. Either way, both speakers demonstrate how far speaker technology has come, offering performance that would have cost multiples more just a few years ago.

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

SVS Prime Bookshelf Speakers - Pair Deals and Prices