Bowers & Wilkins 804S Floorstanding Speakers Review

The Bowers & Wilkins 804S is the entry-level floorstanding model from the 800 Series “S” generation (roughly 2005–2011). Positioned below the larger 803S and the later Diamond versions, it brought high-end Nautilus-derived technology into a more compact, room-friendly package. Originally priced around $4,000 per pair, it remains a highly regarded speaker on the used market.

Design and Build

The 804S is a three-way, four-driver bass-reflex design housed in a Matrix-braced cabinet with curved sides for reduced diffraction and improved rigidity. The distinctive tube-loaded aluminum dome tweeter sits in its own enclosure on top of the cabinet, isolated from the main enclosure. The midrange uses B&W’s FST (Fixed Suspension Transducer) Kevlar cone, while the dual woofers employ lightweight, stiff Rohacell cones.

Key drivers:

• Tweeter: 25 mm (1″) aluminum dome, tube-loaded (Nautilus-style), with silver-coated magnet pole for extended response
• Midrange: 150 mm (6″) woven Kevlar FST cone with powerful neodymium magnet
• Bass: Dual 165 mm (6.5″) Rohacell cone drivers

The cabinet is elegantly proportioned and finished in real wood veneers (cherrywood, rosenut, or black ash). Build quality is excellent, with separate internal chambers for the drivers, high-quality crossover components (air-cored inductors and premium capacitors), and gold-plated terminals.

Key Specifications

• Type: 3-way vented-box system
• Frequency response: 38 Hz – 20 kHz ±2 dB (or ±3 dB to 22 kHz depending on source)
• Frequency range: –6 dB at 30 Hz and 50 kHz
• Sensitivity: 90 dB (2.83 V/1 m)
• Nominal impedance: 8 Ω (minimum 3.0 Ω)
• Crossover frequencies: 350 Hz and 4 kHz
• Recommended amplifier power: 50–200 W
• Dimensions: 1020 × 238 × 351 mm (40.2″ × 9.4″ × 13.8″)
• Weight: 28 kg (62 lbs) each

Sound Quality

The 804S delivers a refined, detailed, and engaging presentation characteristic of the 800 Series.

• Midrange: Outstanding clarity, fluidity, and naturalness. The FST Kevlar driver is a highlight, producing transparent and expressive vocals and instruments with low coloration.
• Treble: Smooth, extended, and detailed without harshness or “tizziness.” The tube-loaded aluminum dome offers excellent air and resolution while remaining non-fatiguing.
• Bass: Tight, controlled, and articulate with good extension for the cabinet size. It is not the deepest or most powerful in the 800 Series (larger models offer more authority), but it is clean and well integrated. A subwoofer can usefully extend the low end in larger rooms or for high-impact material.
• Soundstage & Dynamics: Precise imaging, good depth, and a wide, coherent soundstage. Dynamics are lively and responsive, especially when driven by amplifiers with solid current delivery (many reviewers recommend 150 W+ for best results).

Overall character is refined and resolving rather than warm or lush. It reveals detail and nuances effectively and works well across a wide range of music, from classical and jazz to rock. Proper system matching and placement (including toe-in and distance from walls) are important for optimal balance.

Pros

• Excellent midrange transparency and naturalness (FST driver)
• Smooth, detailed, non-fatiguing treble
• Tight, well-controlled bass
• Precise imaging and coherent soundstage
• Compact footprint for a high-end floorstander
• Outstanding build quality and elegant design
• Strong performance when paired with capable amplification

Cons

• Bass output and extension are good but not class-leading in quantity or impact
• Benefits from amplifiers with good current capability (can sound flat with underpowered amps)
• Slightly less cohesive integration of frequency ranges than the very best competitors in some reviews
• Aging examples (now 15–20 years old) should be checked for condition

Verdict

The B&W 804S is a highly capable entry into the 800 Series that delivers much of the brand’s signature refinement, resolution, and midrange excellence in a more manageable size and price. It excels with detailed, natural reproduction and rewards careful matching with quality electronics.

While later Diamond models (804 D, D2, D3, D4) offer further improvements in treble refinement and overall performance, the 804S remains a strong performer that continues to impress listeners. On the used market it represents excellent value for those seeking classic B&W high-end sound in a compact floorstanding package. Highly recommended for medium-sized rooms and systems that can provide adequate power and control.