Prepare to be blown away by the latest in high-end audio technology: Bowers & Wilkins has just unveiled the 707 Prestige Edition, a bookshelf loudspeaker that promises to redefine what’s possible in compact sound systems. But here’s where it gets controversial—while some audiophiles swear by the brand’s legendary 800 Series Diamonds, this new addition to the 700 Series range claims to blend their best features with a level of craftsmanship that’s both visually stunning and sonically unparalleled. Is this the ultimate compact speaker, or just a bold claim? Let’s dive in.
Designed for Hi-Fi enthusiasts who refuse to compromise on performance or aesthetics, the 707 Prestige Edition is more than just an upgrade—it’s a statement piece. Drawing inspiration from both the 700 Series Signature and the iconic 800 Series Diamonds, this speaker combines cutting-edge acoustic technologies with a luxurious Santos Gloss finish. And this is the part most people miss—the Santos Gloss isn’t just paint; it’s a meticulous 12-layer process that results in a deep, reflective surface, making each speaker a work of art. Paired with a unique logo plate on the rear panel, it’s a design that demands attention.
Sonically, the 707 Prestige Edition builds on the foundation of the 707 S3, a speaker already celebrated for its compact size and articulate sound. But this isn’t just a rehash—Bowers & Wilkins has refined the core architecture to enhance resolution, soundstage, and overall build quality. The two-driver configuration, housed in a vented enclosure with a curved front baffle, is engineered to reduce diffraction and improve sound dispersion. High frequencies are handled by a 25mm Carbon Dome tweeter, while a 130mm Continuum cone drive unit takes care of the midrange and bass. Here’s the kicker—the Continuum cone, first introduced in Bowers & Wilkins’ reference speakers, is designed to eliminate the abrupt break-up modes common in traditional materials, delivering a midrange that’s open, neutral, and utterly immersive.
But it doesn’t stop there. The 707 Prestige Edition borrows upgrades from the award-winning 705 S3 Signature, including an enhanced tweeter grille mesh and low-loss speaker terminals. These improvements are said to reduce interference and boost signal integrity, resulting in greater clarity and a more expansive soundstage. Is this overkill for a bookshelf speaker? Some might argue yes, but for those who demand the best, it’s a game-changer.
Available now for £1,550 (€1,750) per pair, the 707 Prestige Edition is a premium investment. And if you’re looking to complete the setup, optional FS-700 S3 floorstands in black or silver are available. But the real question is: does this speaker justify its price tag? Or is it a luxury reserved for the most discerning audiophiles? Weigh in below—we’d love to hear your thoughts.
Shifting gears, UK Hi-Fi specialist Ruark is celebrating its 40th anniversary with a limited-edition version of its flagship R810 radiogram. Combining mid-century design with modern streaming capabilities and high-resolution audio support, it’s a nod to the past with an eye on the future. Meanwhile, Swiss audio specialist Nagra has introduced the Preamp II-S, a preamplifier that blends ravishing industrial design with advanced tube technology and vibration control. And for vinyl enthusiasts, Sony has returned to the turntable scene with two fully automatic Bluetooth models, the PS-LX3BT and PS-LX5BT, aimed at both newcomers and seasoned collectors.
From Bowers & Wilkins’ bold new speaker to Ruark’s nostalgic radiogram and Nagra’s precision engineering, the world of high-end audio is buzzing with innovation. But which of these releases truly stands out? Let us know in the comments—your opinion could spark the next great audio debate!
