Bowers & Wilkins 802 D4 Tower Speakers Review: A Symphony of Innovation and Elegance

In the world of high-end audio, few names command as much respect as Bowers & Wilkins. Our Bowers & Wilkins 802 D4 Tower Speakers review reveals a product that continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in home audio. These speakers are a testament to B&W's commitment to innovation, offering a tantalising blend of cutting-edge technology and timeless elegance that will captivate even the most discerning audiophiles.

Unparalleled Sound Quality: The Heart of the 802 D4

At the core of the 802 D4's appeal is its exceptional sound quality. Building on the legacy of its predecessors, these speakers incorporate several groundbreaking technologies that set them apart in the crowded high-end audio market.

Diamond Tweeter: A Cut Above the Rest

The 802 D4 features B&W's renowned Diamond tweeter, a marvel of acoustic engineering. This 25mm (1-inch) dome is crafted from synthetic diamond, offering unparalleled rigidity and lightness. The result? Extraordinarily precise and detailed high-frequency reproduction that extends well beyond the range of human hearing, up to a staggering 35kHz.

Continuum™ Cone: Midrange Mastery


The 150mm (6-inch) Continuum™ cone FST midrange driver is a testament to B&W's relentless pursuit of perfection. This proprietary technology provides a remarkably clean and detailed midrange, free from the distortions that plague lesser speakers. The result is a midrange that's as clear as a mountain stream, allowing you to hear every nuance of your favourite recordings.

Aerofoil™ Bass: Deep and Precise

For those who crave deep, powerful bass, the 802 D4 delivers in spades. The twin 200mm (8-inch) Aerofoil™ cone bass units combine low mass with high stiffness, thanks to their carbon-fibre skin and variable-profile foam core. The addition of an Anti-Resonance Plug further reduces distortion, resulting in bass that's not just powerful, but precise and articulate.

Innovative Design: Form Meets Function


The 802 D4's design is a perfect marriage of form and function. The sleek, curved cabinet isn't just visually striking; it's engineered to minimise internal resonances and diffraction effects. The result is a speaker that looks as good as it sounds.

Turbine™ Head: Midrange Isolation

One of the most visually distinctive features of the 802 D4 is its Turbine™ Head. This isn't just for show; it houses the midrange driver in a separate, decoupled enclosure. This isolation ensures that the midrange performance isn't coloured by vibrations from the bass drivers, resulting in exceptional clarity and detail.

Matrix™ Bracing: Rock-Solid Cabinet

Inside the beautiful exterior lies a complex Matrix™ bracing system. This interlocking network of ribs effectively eliminates cabinet resonances, ensuring that what you hear is the music, not the speaker cabinet.

Technological Marvels: The Details That Matter

Biomimetic Suspension: Nature-Inspired Innovation

The 802 D4 incorporates B&W's revolutionary Biomimetic Suspension. This technology replaces the traditional fabric spider with a more advanced solution that reduces unwanted air pressure and coloration. The result is a midrange that's even more transparent and true to the source.

Flowport™: Smooth, Controlled Bass

B&W's Flowport™ technology ensures that bass remains smooth and controlled, even at high volumes. The dimpled surface of the port reduces turbulence, minimising port noise and unwanted resonances.

Who Is the 802 D4 For?

The Bowers & Wilkins 802 D4 Tower Speakers are ideal for:

• Serious audiophiles who demand the very best in sound reproduction
• Music lovers with a wide-ranging taste who want speakers that can handle any genre with aplomb
• Home theatre enthusiasts looking for a reference-grade front channel pair
• Anyone who appreciates the marriage of cutting-edge technology and timeless design

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Unparalleled sound quality across the entire frequency spectrum
• Cutting-edge technologies like the Diamond tweeter and Continuum™ cone
• Stunning design that's both visually appealing and acoustically optimised
• Exceptional build quality and finish
• Versatile performance suitable for both music and home theatre applications

Cons:

• Premium pricing (but you get what you pay for)
• Large size may not suit all room sizes
• Requires high-quality amplification to reach their full potential

The Listening Experience: A New Level of Audio Bliss

Listening to the 802 D4s is nothing short of transformative. These speakers have an uncanny ability to disappear, leaving you with nothing but the music. The soundstage is vast and precisely layered, with instruments and vocals placed with pinpoint accuracy. The bass is deep and authoritative, yet never overpowering. Midrange clarity is exceptional, revealing nuances in familiar recordings that you've never heard before.

But perhaps most impressive is the seamless integration between the various drivers. There's no sense of the music being divided into different frequency bands; instead, you're presented with a cohesive, unified sound that's as close to the original performance as you're likely to get in a home setting.

A Sound Investment for the Discerning Audiophile

The Bowers & Wilkins 802 D4 Tower Speakers represent the pinnacle of home audio technology. While they come with a premium price tag, they offer performance that justifies every penny. For those who are serious about their audio, these speakers are an investment in years of musical enjoyment.

If you're considering taking your audio experience to the next level, we'd love to help. Our team at The Audio Tailor is passionate about helping audiophiles find their perfect match. Give us a call on 1300 308 711, and we'll be happy to discuss how the 802 D4s might fit into your system.

Ready to experience the 802 D4 for yourself? Check out the product page for more details and to make your purchase.


In the world of high-end audio, the Bowers & Wilkins 802 D4 Tower Speakers stand as a testament to what's possible when cutting-edge technology meets uncompromising craftsmanship. They're not just speakers; they're a gateway to a new level of musical enjoyment. Whether you're a seasoned audiophile or someone looking to make a serious investment in their audio system, the 802 D4s are worthy of your consideration.

Remember, at The Audio Tailor, we're here to help you make the best choice for your unique needs and preferences. Don't hesitate to reach out – let's embark on this audio journey together.