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Bowers & Wilkins 703 S3
The new 703 S3 now features our iconic Tweeter-on-Top configuration for the first time, alongside a decoupled FST™ Continuum cone midrange driver - enhanced by the addition of our revolutionary new Biomimetic Suspension - and twin Aerofoil Profile bass drivers.
Room-filling realism
Its new Tweeter-on-Top configuration and the revolutionary Biomimetic Suspension in its decoupled midrange drive unit combine to raise the 703 S3 to all-new heights of performance.
A house for high frequencies
The 700 Series features the latest generation of our iconic Solid Body Tweeter-on-Top housing. Its new, more elongated form incorporates a longer tube-loading system to produce an even more free and open sound with high frequencies. The carefully decoupled housing is milled from a single solid block of aluminum to better resist resonance.
Sharper detail
Carbon Dome tweeters are purpose-built for the 700 Series. Delivering a dramatic improvement on the aluminum double dome tweeter, they raise the breakup threshold to 47kHz, for pinpoint imaging accuracy and detail.
Truly amazing sound
Thanks to its composite construction, the Continuum™ cone avoids the abrupt transitions in behavior that can impair the performance of a conventional drive unit. The result is a more open, neutral performance that delivers voices and instruments with precision and transparency.
Clean and clear
Every three-way loudspeaker in the new 700 Series has a dedicated midrange cone using four key Bowers & Wilkins technologies: the Continuum cone, FST™, Biomimetic Suspension and midrange decoupling, the latter ensuring minimal interference from the operation of the loudspeaker’s bass drivers.
A triumph of science
Developed using advanced computer modelling techniques, the Aerofoil™ Profile bass cone has variable thickness, providing stiffness and rigidity where it’s needed most. The result: deep and dynamic bass.
Dealers selling Bowers & Wilkins near you
The 703 S3 stuns with class-leading imaging and an expansive soundstage, thanks to its tweeter‑on‑top and decoupled Continuum mid driver. Reviewers praise a lucid midband and controlled low end from Aerofoil woofers, while premium finishes and refined crossovers underline its pedigree — noted by Part Time Audiophile.
Pros
- Class-leading imaging and wide, deep soundstage that make instruments and vocals precisely positioned.
- Lucid, well-textured midband with natural vocal timbre and instrument weight.
- Controlled, authoritative bass from the Aerofoil-profile woofers that moves air without smearing the mids.
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Cons
- May lack the deepest sub-bass in very large or open rooms — some listeners pair a sub for the lowest octaves.
- Top end can be slightly restrained or show a small dip; certain recordings may reveal occasional brightness or a 'sparkly' treble character.
- Rewards strong, well-matched amplification—needs power to fully realise its dynamics and control.
Sound Quality
93/100
Bass
93/100
Dual 165mm Aerofoil woofers and a quoted 46Hz response deliver authoritative, well-controlled low end. Multiple reviews note 'chest‑thumping' air, defined, quick bass that supplies a solid foundation without overwhelming the midrange; one reviewer felt bass was a little light compared with larger siblings and that a sub helps for the deepest sub-bass.
Mid
94/100
Reviewers consistently praise the lucid midband and excellent vocal timbre—male and female voices are described as forward, textured and well locked in the soundstage. The decoupled Continuum mid and crossover work to deliver natural detail and instrument weight across genres.
Treble
91/100
Carbon dome tweeter yields smooth, extended highs (clean above 40kHz per measurements) with a generally open presentation. Some reviewers note a slight dip or a restrained/‘polite’ top end and occasional sparkle that can be bright on certain recordings, so detail is good without being edgey.
Soundstage Imaging
96/100
Multiple reviewers call out class-leading imaging and wide, deep staging—speakers disappear and instrument placement is precise. The Tweeter-on-Top and cabinet design improvements are cited as contributing to exceptional spatial performance for the price.
Dynamics
92/100
Speakers respond well to high SPLs and large-scale material; reviewers report strong macro and micro dynamics, good pacing and the ability to 'punch back' when driven. They benefit from powerful amplification for best dynamic control.
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Build Quality
94/100
Substantial, well-engineered cabinets (heavy, robust plinths, refined finishes) and upgraded crossovers/terminals are repeatedly praised. Driver pods, improved heatsinking, and premium finishes reflect high manufacturing quality consistent with the asking price.
Features Connectivity
80/100
Passive floorstander baseline applied. Rear port, wide-spaced upgraded binding posts (bi-wire capability) and included port-insert/plinth/spikes are noted; no DSP/streaming is expected or penalized.
Value for Money
86/100
At ~$6,000/pair reviewers generally view the 703 S3 as a very strong performance-for-price offering—some calling it a 'steal' for certain material—though it's acknowledged as a significant financial commitment and benefits from quality amplification.
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