The B&W DM602 S2 is a pair of standmount or bookshelf loudspeakers that were part of Bowers & Wilkins' popular and highly regarded DM600 Series 2 range, likely introduced around the late 1990s. These speakers are known for delivering a compelling combination of performance, clarity, and value, making them a favorite among audiophiles and hi-fi enthusiasts.
Key Features and Characteristics:
Two-Way Vented-Box System: The DM602 S2 utilizes a two-way design, featuring separate drivers for different frequency ranges housed in a bass-reflex enclosure with a front-firing Flowport™. This design aims to provide a balanced and efficient sound reproduction with extended bass response.
Kevlar® Mid/Bass Driver: A signature B&W technology, the 7-inch (180mm) woven Kevlar cone mid/bass driver is designed to minimize unwanted standing waves and cone breakup, resulting in lower coloration and improved definition in the crucial midrange frequencies and punchy bass.
Nautilus™ Tapered Tube Tweeter: Borrowing technology from B&W's high-end Nautilus range, the 1-inch (25mm) aluminum dome tweeter features a tapered tube loading. This design effectively absorbs unwanted rearward radiation from the tweeter diaphragm, reducing resonance and leading to a cleaner, more detailed, and less compressed high-frequency performance.
Flowport™: The front-firing bass reflex port incorporates dimples, similar to a golf ball's surface. This innovative design reduces air turbulence, minimizing "chuffing" or port noise, especially at higher volumes, and contributes to a cleaner and more powerful bass output.
High-Quality Crossover: The speakers feature a carefully designed crossover network with quality components to ensure a smooth transition between the drivers and accurate frequency response. Bi-wiring and bi-amping are often supported via two pairs of high-quality binding posts, offering flexibility in connecting to your amplifier.
Robust Cabinet Construction: The cabinets are well-braced to minimize unwanted vibrations and resonances that can color the sound. The rounded edges of the baffle are designed to reduce diffraction, ensuring a clearer and more focused stereo image.
Attractive Finish: The DM602 S2 was typically available in attractive vinyl finishes like Black Ash and Cherry, allowing them to integrate well into various listening environments. The black cloth grilles are removable.
Wide Dispersion: Designed to provide a broad and even sound dispersion, the DM602 S2 offers a wide sweet spot, making them enjoyable for multiple listeners in a room.
Specifications (Typical):
System Type: 2-way vented-box
Drive Units:
1 x 25mm (1 inch) aluminum dome high-frequency tweeter with Nautilus™ tapered tube
1 x 180mm (7 inch) woven Kevlar® cone bass/midrange driver
Frequency Response: 52Hz – 20kHz ± 3dB on reference axis
Frequency Range: -6dB at 43Hz and 30kHz
Sensitivity: 90dB spl (2.83V, 1m)
Nominal Impedance: 8 ohms (minimum 4.3 ohms)
Recommended Amplifier Power: 25W – 120W into 8 ohms on unclipped program
Crossover Frequency: 3kHz
Dimensions (H x W x D): 490mm x 236mm x 306mm (19.3 inches x 9.3 inches x 12 inches)
