Bowers & Wilkins 805 D4 Bookshelf Speakers Review: A Compact Symphony of Audiophile Excellence

In the realm of high-end audio, few names command as much respect as Bowers & Wilkins. Our Bowers & Wilkins 805 D4 Bookshelf Speakers review reveals a product that exemplifies why this British manufacturer remains at the forefront of audiophile-grade equipment. As the most compact offering in the prestigious 800 Series Diamond range, the 805 D4 punches well above its weight, delivering a listening experience that belies its diminutive stature.

Unboxing the Sonic Jewel

Upon first glance, the 805 D4 exudes an air of refined elegance. The meticulously crafted Reverse-Wrap cabinet, available in a range of luxurious finishes including Gloss Black, White, Satin Rosenut, and Satin Walnut, speaks to the attention to detail that Bowers & Wilkins is known for.

The standout feature, quite literally, is the Solid Body Tweeter-on-Top. This elongated housing, milled from a single block of aluminium, not only serves as a visual centrepiece but plays a crucial role in the speaker's acoustic performance.

The Heart of the Matter: Technical Prowess

At the core of the 805 D4's sonic capabilities lies a suite of cutting-edge technologies:

1. Diamond Dome Tweeter: The crowning jewel of the 805 D4, this tweeter represents the pinnacle of high-frequency reproduction. Its low mass and exceptional stiffness result in unparalleled accuracy and detail.
2. Continuum™ Cone: The 165mm (6.5-in) mid-bass driver utilises Bowers & Wilkins' proprietary Continuum material, ensuring a clean, precise midrange and surprisingly robust bass for a bookshelf speaker.
3. Solid Body Tweeter Assembly: The latest iteration features an extended tube-loading system, contributing to a more open and unfettered high-frequency performance.
4. Rear-Mounted Crossover: By relocating the crossover to a dedicated space within the cabinet, Bowers & Wilkins has enhanced both performance and serviceability.

Listening Experience: A Compact Powerhouse

Despite its compact dimensions (440mm x 240mm x 373mm), the 805 D4 delivers a soundstage that is both expansive and precise. The bass extension is remarkable for a speaker of this size, reaching down to 34Hz while maintaining clarity and definition.

The Diamond Dome tweeter shines in its reproduction of high frequencies, rendering the finest details with a crystalline quality that must be heard to be believed. Vocals and midrange instruments are presented with a lifelike presence, thanks to the Continuum cone's ability to minimise unwanted resonances.

What truly sets the 805 D4 apart is its ability to disappear sonically, presenting a three-dimensional soundstage that extends well beyond the physical boundaries of the speakers. This imaging prowess makes it an ideal choice for critical listening in smaller spaces or as part of a high-end stereo setup.

Who Is It For?

The Bowers & Wilkins 805 D4 is tailored for the discerning audiophile who demands uncompromising performance but may have space constraints. It's equally at home in a dedicated listening room or as part of a sophisticated living space where both aesthetics and audio quality are paramount.

For those considering stepping up their audio game, our team at The Audio Tailor is always available to discuss how the 805 D4 might fit into your specific setup. Don't hesitate to reach out for personalised advice and potential system-matching options.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional high-frequency performance with Diamond Dome tweeter
• Impressive bass extension for a bookshelf speaker
• Stunning build quality and aesthetic design
• Advanced technologies like the Solid Body Tweeter-on-Top
• Versatile enough for various room sizes and setups

Cons:

• Premium pricing (but justified by the performance)
• May require high-quality amplification to reach full potential
• Stand-mount design means additional investment in appropriate stands

The Verdict: A Small Speaker with Colossal Ambitions

The Bowers & Wilkins 805 D4 is a testament to what's possible when cutting-edge technology meets meticulous craftsmanship. It offers a level of performance that challenges much larger speakers, making it an ideal choice for those who refuse to compromise on sound quality but have space constraints.

While the price point places it firmly in the high-end category, the 805 D4 justifies its cost through its exceptional build quality, innovative technologies, and most importantly, its sublime sound. For those looking to experience the pinnacle of bookshelf speaker performance, the 805 D4 is a compelling option that deserves serious consideration.

Curious to experience the Bowers & Wilkins 805 D4 for yourself? Check out the product page for more details, or give our team a call. We're always excited to help fellow audiophiles find their perfect sound.

Note: Stand(s) not included with the speakers.