Each Bowers & Wilkins Formation Duo speaker uses a 125-watt amplifier, and the Duo can reproduce a frequency range of 25 Hz to 33 kHz. The only connectors are Ethernet and service USB. The acoustics, like all devices in the Formation line, can process signals received via the proprietary wireless protocol in quality up to 24 bit/96 kHz. In addition, the Duo has Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Roon and Bluetooth (with aptX HD support) on board.
The Bowers & Wilkins Formation Duo model is capable of conveying the finest nuances of a musical work. Such capabilities are provided by a new tweeter of a complex design with a rigid carbon dome membrane. The emitter is placed in a streamlined case-case, resembling the shape of a bullet and mounted on the top panel of the column. This miniature body, made of aluminum, weighs just over one kilogram and has excellent acoustic inertness. The tweeter’s first resonance frequency is shifted to 47 kHz. Thanks to its high specifications and wide bandwidth, this speaker can easily cope with the reproduction of demanding high-resolution audio formats. Bowers & Wilkins points out that this driver is significantly superior to previously used double aluminum dome tweeters.
The Bowers & Wilkins Formation Duo bass driver features a new six-inch Continuum cone mounted on a wide elastic surround with a phase-equalizing cap in the center. The woofer is loaded with a proprietary Flowport bass reflex with a low level of acoustic noise, the output of which is located on the rear panel. With dimensions of 395x197x305 mm, the Formation Duo speakers weigh 10.6 kg. This model is the only one in the Formation line that is available not only in black, but also in white. Branded floor stands are optionally available.
All Formation models are controlled by a proprietary application and can be combined into a multiroom system with wireless signal transmission with 24-bit / 96 kHz quality.
The Formation Duo should not be considered on the same level as classic stereo systems. Here we have a modern alternative approach to receiving, transmitting and demonstrating an audio signal, where flexibility, convenience and wide communication capabilities of components are at the forefront. And part of the money you pay is for this. The speakers are self-sufficient and do not require a separate amplifier and source. Welcome to the new wireless digital world!
But the speakers also retain a traditional feature of Bowers & Wilkins acoustics – sound. Rich, powerful, detailed. Formation Duo can easily cope with almost any musical material, and if there is something in the sound that you don’t like, it can be corrected digitally – and the result may not be worse than that of another comparable analog system. Take this philosophically – yes, traditions are breaking, but we have more choice.
Bowers & Wilkins Formation Duo Specifications
Drivers:
1 x 25 mm (1 in) premium quality carbon dome tweeter
1 x 165 mm (6½ in) Continuum woofer Frequency response
: 45 Hz to 33 kHz
Output power: 2 x 125 W
Input voltage: 100 V – 240 V – 50/60 Hz
Power consumption: below 6 W (sleep mode)
Connections: Network connector (RJ45 Ethernet or WiFi), USB – only for
Bluetooth v4.1, Class 2, AptX service HD, AAC, SBC
Compatible with AirPlay 2:
Support: Spotify Connect, Roon Ready
Dimensions (WxHxD) 197x395x305 mm
Weight 10.5 kg
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