Bowers & Wilkins HTM71 S3 Centre Speaker Review: A Pinnacle of Home Theatre Audio

In this Bowers & Wilkins HTM71 S3 Centre Speaker review, we delve into the flagship centre-channel offering from one of the most respected names in high-fidelity audio. As audiophiles and home theatre enthusiasts, we at The Audio Tailor are always on the lookout for components that elevate the listening experience, and the HTM71 S3 certainly promises to do just that. Let's explore why this speaker might be the missing piece in your quest for audio perfection.

Cutting-Edge Technology Meets Timeless Design

The HTM71 S3 is not just another centre speaker; it's a testament to Bowers & Wilkins' commitment to innovation and acoustic excellence. At the heart of this speaker lies a suite of proprietary technologies that work in harmony to deliver an unparalleled auditory experience.

Tweeter-on-Top: A House for High Frequencies

The latest generation of B&W's iconic Solid Body Tweeter-on-Top housing is a sight to behold. This elongated form incorporates an extended tube-loading system, resulting in a more open and free sound at high frequencies. The housing, milled from a single block of aluminium, is carefully decoupled to minimise resonance, ensuring that what you hear is pure, unadulterated sound.

Carbon Dome Tweeter: Precision Personified

The Carbon Dome tweeter, purpose-built for the 700 Series, takes the speaker's high-frequency performance to new heights. With a breakup threshold of 47kHz, it offers pinpoint imaging accuracy and detail that will make even the most discerning audiophile smile.

Continuum Cone: The Heart of Clarity

The 130mm (5in) Continuum Cone FST™ midrange driver is where the HTM71 S3 truly shines, especially when it comes to dialogue clarity. This composite construction avoids the abrupt transitions that can impair conventional drive units, resulting in a more open and neutral performance that brings voices and instruments to life with exceptional precision and transparency.

Aerofoil Profile Bass Cones: Deep and Dynamic

Developed using advanced computer modelling, the twin Aerofoil™ Profile bass cones feature variable thickness, providing stiffness and rigidity exactly where needed. The result? Bass that's not just deep, but dynamically rich and textured.

Who Is This Speaker For?

• Serious home theatre enthusiasts looking for the ultimate centre-channel performance
• Audiophiles who demand uncompromising quality in multi-channel music playback
• Those pairing with other 700 Series speakers, particularly the 705 S3, 703 S3, and 702 S3
• Anyone seeking to elevate their listening experience with a centre speaker that refuses to compromise

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional clarity and precision, especially for dialogue
• State-of-the-art Tweeter-on-Top design for superior high-frequency performance
• Continuum Cone technology for neutral and transparent midrange
• Powerful and refined bass response from Aerofoil Profile cones
• Stunning aesthetics that complement any high-end setup
• Perfect integration with other 700 Series speakers

Cons:

• Premium pricing (but justified by the technology and performance)
• Sizeable footprint may require careful placement
• May outperform other speakers in a mismatched system

A Symphony of Specifications

The HTM71 S3 is not just about impressive technology; it's backed by solid specifications that underscore its capabilities:

• Dimensions: 233mm (H) x 628mm (W) x 356mm (D) including tweeter, grille, and terminals
• Weight: A substantial 17.45kg, speaking to its build quality
• Driver Configuration: 3-way vented-box system
• Drive Units:
  • 1x 25mm Decoupled Carbon Dome high-frequency
  • 1x 130mm Continuum cone FST midrange
  • 2x 130mm Aerofoil Profile bass

For those interested in exploring the full technical details, you can find more information on our Bowers & Wilkins HTM71 S3 Centre Speaker product page.

Aesthetic Versatility

Available in sleek Black, sophisticated Mocha, and elegant Satin White finishes, the HTM71 S3 is designed to complement any decor. Its modern yet timeless design ensures it will remain a centrepiece of your audio setup for years to come.

The Auditory Experience

A Perfect Match

While the HTM71 S3 is a stellar performer in its own right, it truly comes into its own when paired with other speakers from the 700 Series. The tonal consistency across the range ensures a cohesive soundstage that envelops the listener, creating a truly immersive experience whether you're watching blockbuster movies or enjoying your favourite concert recordings.

Craftsmanship That Speaks Volumes

The build quality of the HTM71 S3 is evident from the moment you lay eyes on it. Every aspect, from the precision-milled Tweeter-on-Top housing to the flawless cabinet finish, speaks to Bowers & Wilkins' attention to detail. This is a speaker built to last, both in terms of durability and sonic relevance.

The Audio Tailor's Verdict: A New Benchmark in Centre Channel Performance

The Bowers & Wilkins HTM71 S3 Centre Speaker is more than just a component; it's a statement. It represents the pinnacle of what's possible in centre channel design, offering a level of clarity, precision, and overall performance that's hard to match.

For those building a no-compromise home theatre system or looking to upgrade their existing setup, the HTM71 S3 deserves serious consideration. Its ability to anchor a soundstage while delivering nuanced, articulate performance across the frequency spectrum is truly remarkable.

If you're intrigued by what the HTM71 S3 could bring to your audio setup, we encourage you to experience it for yourself. Our team at The Audio Tailor is always ready to provide personalised advice and help you explore how this exceptional speaker can integrate into your system. Give us a call on 1300 308 711 or drop us an email at sales@theaudiotailor.com.au. We're here to ensure you get the best out of your home theatre audio experience.