Bowers & Wilkins 606 S3
Drive units: 25mm tweeter, 16.5cm mid/bass
Ported? Yes (rear)
Bi-wire? Yes
Impedance: 8 ohms
Sensitivity: 88dB
Dimensions (hwd): 34.4 x 18.9 x 30cm
Weight: 7.05kg
Finishes: x 3 (White, Black, Oak)
The refined, clear and Award-winning 606 S3 have been our favourite mid-range standmounts for a while now, but can they fend off the challenge of the five-star KEF Q3 Meta?
Pros
- Slightly clearer and more open than the KEFs
- Design is arguably more chic
- Detailed, musical sound
- Good build quality
Cons
- Need care with partnering equipment
- Treble is less forgiving than the KEFs'
KEF Q3 Meta
Drive units: Uni-Q driver array (25mm tweeter, 16.5cm mid/bass)
Ported? Yes (rear)
Bi-wire? No
Impedance: 4 ohms
Sensitivity: 87dB
Dimensions (hwd): 35.7 x 21 x 30.5cm
Weight: 8.2kg
Finishes: x 3 (Satin White, Satin Black, Walnut)
The KEF Q3 Meta present a serious challenge to the B&W 606 S3 thanks to their mature, balanced sound and impressively amenable nature.
Pros
- More mature and forgiving than the 606 S3
- Balanced, controlled presentation
- Offer greater bass weight
- Pleasing build quality throughout
Cons
- B&W sound crisper and cleaner
- Comparatively bulky design
