87%

Bowers & Wilkins DB4S

Name: Bowers & Wilkins DB4S
Brand: Bowers & Wilkins
SKU: 1511
Rating: 4.4 (6 reviews)

View at Bowers & Wilkins

For bass you can feel

With digital amplification, DB4S delivers all the visceral rumble and punch you need to bring cinema sound to life.

Nimble and powerful

Solid, dramatic bass is delivered through the rigidity and lightness of the uniquely-shaped, variable thickness Aerofoil™ cone.

Powerful amplification

Thanks to digital amplification, DB4S delivers all the precision, control and authority you could ask for.

Digital preamplifier

DB4S uses a digital preamplifier featuring Dynamic EQ, for optimized audio performance across the available frequency range.

Control App

Adjust calibration and correction easily using the dedicated DB4S smartphone app.

Dealers selling Bowers & Wilkins near you

Join us at T.H.E. Show SoCal 2026!

Overall Score 87/100

Nicely Roasted

The DB4S pairs a sealed 250mm Aerofoil bass unit and a 1,000W Hypex Class‑D amp with DSP to deliver ultra‑low extension and remarkably tight, controlled bass, while its app-based setup and automatic room correction bring streamlined integration. SoundStage Solo highlights the Aerofoil driver, Dynamic EQ and app control as standout features.

Pros

Extensive low-frequency extension and controlled output from the sealed 250mm Aerofoil driver paired with a 1,000W Hypex Class‑D amplifier and DSP (Dynamic EQ).
App-based setup with automatic room correction and Dynamic EQ simplifies integration and tuning in different rooms.
Premium build and finish options (Gloss Black, Satin White, Rosenut) reflect B&W's high standards for cabinetry and presentation.

Cons

Premium pricing (around AU$2799) positions the DB4S at the high end of the market, which may be a barrier for value-focused buyers.

Sound Quality

91/100

Bass

92/100

Spec sheet claims a sealed 250mm Aerofoil cone with -3dB at 10Hz (centered on 100Hz) and -6dB at 8.5Hz, implying exceptional low-frequency extension and controlled output for a sealed design. No review outcomes provided to verify in-room extension or relative SPL against larger reference subs.

Dynamics

88/100

Closed-box architecture, Aerofoil cone, and substantial cabinet mass (26kg) plus DSP imply tight transient control and good dynamic authority; specs suggest robust amplifier capability (implied by power listing). No reviewer measurements or listening comments provided to confirm slam/headroom in demanding material.

Show Less

Integration

80/100

Has app-based setup, Digital preamplifier with Dynamic EQ, XLR/RCA inputs and presets that facilitate integration. Features ≠ Integration; add outcome evidence or lower Integration. No reviewer descriptions (e.g. 'disappears', 'seamless') available to confirm real-world blending with mains.

Build Quality

90/100

Premium finishes (Gloss Black, Satin White, Rosenut), heavy 26kg cabinet and B&W's Aerofoil driver point to high build standards and cabinetry rigidity. No hands-on review notes available to corroborate long-term durability or fit/finish impressions.

Features Connectivity

92/100

Comprehensive I/O: 2x XLR, 2x RCA, 2x 3.5mm triggers, RS-232; app-based setup and BT-LE control plus Dynamic EQ provide excellent usability and integration tools. Well-appointed feature set per spec sheet.

Value for Money

78/100

At the provided price (~2700) the DB4S sits in a premium bracket; specs suggest class-leading sealed performance but high cost tempers value. No reviewer language (e.g., 'no-brainer', 'best in class') present to justify a top-tier value score.