for $600-800
Face Off involves the Series 3 Vintage Bowers & Wilkins Matrix 804 s1 and the DM604 s3. Both speakers can be found around the $600-800 range on the used market. The Bowers and Wilkins DM604 Series 3 and the Matrix 804 Series 3 are two of the most popular speakers in their class. Both of them have been designed to provide exceptional sound quality and clarity, but they have their differences. In this article, we will compare and contrast the Bowers and Wilkins DM604 Series 3 and the Matrix 804 Series 3 to determine which one is the better option for you.
Correction(s)
B&W's use a rubber and not foam surround to their speakers.
A few times I mention the wrong B&W model number for the statement I made. (ex. 802,804,604, etc)
My Gear
I use both a solid state and tube Amp on them. I prefer tubes. They don't seem hard to drive, but I use big heavy, powerful amplifiers with TONS of current. I really like the B&W used market, and so do a lot of people. They're EXTREMELY popular speakers, and they tend not to last if priced well.
Design and Build Quality:
The Bowers and Wilkins DM604 Series 3 features a classic design with a sleek black finish. The speaker cabinet is made of MDF (medium-density fiberboard) with a high-quality veneer finish. The speaker weighs 27.5kg and measures 1000mm x 280mm x 370mm. The DM604 Series 3 has a single 6.5-inch Kevlar cone midrange driver, a 1-inch aluminum dome tweeter, and two 8-inch Kevlar cone bass drivers. The speaker also features a rear-firing bass port that helps to enhance the bass response.
On the other hand, the Matrix 804 Series 3 features a modern design with a black or white finish. The speaker cabinet is made of a high-quality aluminum material that is both lightweight and durable. The speaker weighs 23kg and measures 980mm x 190mm x 325mm. The Matrix 804 Series 3 has a single 5-inch FST midrange driver, a 1-inch aluminum dome tweeter, and two 7-inch bass drivers. The speaker also features a front-firing bass port that helps to enhance the bass response.
In terms of design and build quality, both speakers have their strengths and weaknesses. The DM604 Series 3 has a classic design and a larger cabinet size, which allows for more bass response. On the other hand, the Matrix 804 Series 3 has a modern design and a more compact size, which makes it easier to place in smaller rooms.
Sound Quality
The sound quality of a speaker is the most important factor when it comes to choosing the right speaker for your needs. The Bowers and Wilkins DM604 Series 3 and the Matrix 804 Series 3 both offer exceptional sound quality, but they have their differences.
The DM604 Series 3 has a warm and rich sound signature with a strong bass response. The midrange and treble frequencies are clear and detailed, but they can be slightly recessed compared to the bass. The speaker can handle a wide range of music genres, including rock, jazz, and classical music.
The Matrix 804 Series 3 has a more neutral sound signature with a balanced bass, midrange, and treble response. The speaker is more revealing of the source material, and it can expose flaws in poorly recorded music. The Matrix 804 Series 3 is also more precise and accurate, making it a better choice for critical listening.
Conclusion
The Bowers and Wilkins DM604 Series 3 and the Matrix 804 Series 3 are both excellent speakers with their strengths and weaknesses. The DM604 Series 3 has a classic design and a warm sound signature with a strong bass response, making it a good choice for music lovers who want a more immersive sound. The Matrix 804 Series 3 has a vintage design and a neutral sound signature with a balanced frequency response, making it a better choice for critical listening and home theater applications.
Ultimately, the choice between the Bowers and Wilkins DM604 Series 3 and the Matrix 804 Series 3 comes down to personal preference and your listening needs. Both speakers are excellent choices, and they are sure to provide you with exceptional sound quality for years to come.
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Revisions
Feb 2nd 2023—Rewrote the entire article, added thumbnails.
July 27th 2022—Added external links, and more.