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

In the world of high-end audio, few names command as much respect as Bowers & Wilkins. Today, we're diving deep into the Bowers & Wilkins 805 D4 Signature Bookshelf Speakers review, a product that exemplifies the pinnacle of stand-mount loudspeaker design. As audiophiles at The Audio Tailor, we're thrilled to share our insights on this compact powerhouse that's making waves in the Australian hi-fi community.

Unboxing the Beauty

From the moment you lay eyes on the 805 D4 Signature, it's clear that Bowers & Wilkins has crafted something special. Available in the stunning Midnight Blue Metallic finish, these speakers are a visual treat that will elevate any listening space.

The compact dimensions (440mm x 240mm x 373mm) belie the technological marvel within. At 15.55kg each, these speakers have a reassuring heft that speaks to the quality of components used.

Technological Marvels

Diamond Dome Tweeter: The Crown Jewel

The 805 D4 Signature's pièce de résistance is undoubtedly its Diamond Dome tweeter. This 25mm marvel is a testament to Bowers & Wilkins' relentless pursuit of perfection. The diamond's unparalleled stiffness-to-mass ratio allows for pistonic movement well beyond the range of human hearing, resulting in a high-frequency response that's nothing short of extraordinary.

Continuum™ Cone: The Heart of the Matter

Complementing the Diamond Dome tweeter is the 165mm Continuum™ cone bass/midrange driver. This proprietary technology offers a more open, neutral performance compared to traditional Kevlar cones. The result? Voices and instruments are reproduced with a level of precision and transparency that must be heard to be believed.

Solid Body Tweeter-on-Top: Floating Perfection

The Solid Body Tweeter-on-Top housing is not just a visual statement; it's a crucial element in the 805 D4 Signature's sonic performance. The elongated form and longer tube-loading system, coupled with an all-new tweeter grille design, produce an even more open and free sound in the high frequencies.

Performance That Defies Size

Don't let the compact form factor fool you; the 805 D4 Signature packs a punch. With a frequency response of 42Hz to 28kHz (±3dB) and a sensitivity of 88dB, these speakers deliver a full-bodied sound that belies their size.

The crossover, now upgraded and rear-mounted on stiff aluminum spines, isolates sensitive capacitors from air pressure within the enclosure. This clever design not only improves performance but also acts as an effective heatsink, ensuring optimal operation even during extended listening sessions.

Who Are These Speakers For?

The 805 D4 Signature is perfect for the discerning audiophile who demands uncompromising sound quality but may have space constraints. They're ideal for:

• Apartment dwellers seeking high-end sound without overwhelming their living space
• Music enthusiasts who appreciate the nuances in acoustic and vocal performances
• Audiophiles looking to create a high-performance 2.1 or multi-channel system

Setting Up for Success

To truly unlock the potential of the 805 D4 Signature, proper setup is crucial. We recommend pairing these speakers with high-quality stands to reduce unwanted vibrations and achieve optimal positioning. Our team at The Audio Tailor is always on hand to offer advice on the best setup for your specific room and listening preferences. Don't hesitate to give us a call for personalized recommendations.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional sound quality in a compact form factor
• State-of-the-art Diamond Dome tweeter for unparalleled high-frequency performance
• Continuum™ cone technology for precise and transparent midrange
• Stunning aesthetics with premium finish options
• Versatile for various room sizes and listening preferences
• Backed by Bowers & Wilkins' renowned build quality and engineering

Cons:

• Premium pricing (but justifiable for the level of performance)
• May require high-quality amplification to truly shine
• Limited low-end extension compared to floorstanding models (but can be complemented with a subwoofer)

The Listening Experience

Sitting down with the 805 D4 Signature is a transformative experience. The soundstage is expansive, with pinpoint imaging that places each instrument and vocalist in their own space. The Diamond Dome tweeter delivers highs that are crisp and extended without ever becoming harsh or fatiguing.

Midrange performance is where these speakers truly excel. The Continuum™ cone reproduces vocals with a realism that's genuinely emotional. Whether it's the breathy intimacy of a jazz singer or the power of a full orchestra, the 805 D4 Signature conveys every nuance with startling clarity.

Bass performance is impressive for a bookshelf speaker, thanks to the carefully tuned port system. While it won't shake the foundations like a large floorstander, the low-end is tight, tuneful, and surprisingly extended.

A Sound Investment

The Bowers & Wilkins 805 D4 Signature Bookshelf Speakers represent the pinnacle of stand-mount speaker design. They offer a level of performance that will satisfy even the most demanding audiophile, all while maintaining a relatively compact footprint.

While the price point places them firmly in the high-end category, the 805 D4 Signature offers a sound quality that rivals (and often surpasses) much larger and more expensive systems. For those who demand the very best and have the associated equipment to match, these speakers are a sound investment that will provide years of musical enjoyment.

Experience the 805 D4 Signature for Yourself

Reading about the Bowers & Wilkins 805 D4 Signature is one thing, but experiencing them is another matter entirely. At The Audio Tailor, we're passionate about helping our customers find their perfect audio solution. Why not get in touch with our team to arrange a personalized consultation? We'd be delighted to help you explore how these exceptional speakers could transform your listening experience.

In the world of high-end audio, the Bowers & Wilkins 805 D4 Signature stands as a testament to what's possible when engineering excellence meets a passion for pure sound. It's not just a speaker; it's a portal to a world of musical bliss, right in the comfort of your own home.