Pressure Vessel prototype | Bowers & Wilkins PV1 specs

To illustrate this, there are two analogies that we can apply. The ﬁrst is the soap bubble. An undisturbed bubble assumes a spherical shape because the pressure difference inside and out is perfectly balanced by the only force the bubble can sustain - surface tension that is entirely in the curved plane of the skin.

The second important analogy is found in the architecture of Antonio Gaudi. For our subwoofer, not only do we have to consider pressure changes in the enclosed volume of air, we must also deal with mechanical reaction forces generated in the magnet system of the driver and transmitted to the enclosure walls via the driver's chassis.

The delicate and almost skeletal structure of the temple of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona was derived from a novel simulation of the structure using string and weights. Tension in the string of the inverted structure is analogous to compression in the arches and pillars. The string naturally assumes a shape where the only force is tension along its length. It cannot support any other. There are therefore no bending forces. The resulting arches and pillars built following these natural forms suffer only compression along their length, so they are very strong yet slender compared to traditional designs.

B&W Pressure Vessel prototype

The principle of restricting forces to compression or

tension in the plane of a structure was applied to a

subwoofer enclosure in order to minimise sound radiation

caused by ﬂexing of its walls.

Early prototypes used a single drive unit mounted in a

large spherical enclosure. This worked very well at ultra

low frequencies, as the conditions approached those of

the static analogies discussed above. However, as the

frequency increased, it was found that internal pressure

changes due to movement of the driver diaphragm did not

transmit instantaneously throughout the whole of the

internal volume. Neither were the mechanical reaction

forces from the driver chassis transmitted instantaneously

throughout the structure of the enclosure.

Gaudi's inverse force model.

Support pillars in the temple of the Sagrada Familia, Barcelona

PV1 specifications

Bowers & Wilkins has long been synonymous with high-quality audio equipment, and the PV1 subwoofer stands out as a compelling offering in its range. Launched with an elegant design and innovative technology, the PV1 not only delivers deep, resonant bass but also complements modern home aesthetics.

One of the main features of the Bowers & Wilkins PV1 is its unique driver configuration. The subwoofer is equipped with a pair of 8-inch drivers that are strategically positioned to optimize sound dispersion. This design enables the PV1 to produce powerful bass frequencies without distortion, making it an ideal choice for both music enthusiasts and movie lovers. The drivers work in tandem with a high-performance 250-watt digital amplifier that ensures dynamic and accurate sound reproduction across various genres.

The PV1's enclosure is another hallmark of its design. Constructed from rigid materials, the cabinet is shaped like an oval, which not only enhances its visual appeal but also helps reduce standing waves and internal resonances, resulting in cleaner sound output. This attention to detail ensures that listeners experience the full depth of low frequencies, immersing them in their favorite music and films.

Bowers & Wilkins has also incorporated its innovative Flowport technology in the PV1. This system features a specially designed port that minimizes turbulence caused by air movement, thereby reducing unwanted noise and allowing for a more nuanced bass response. This results in a clean, articulate low-end that enhances the overall listening experience.

Another significant characteristic of the PV1 is its adaptability. The subwoofer is equipped with adjustable settings, allowing users to tailor the bass response to suit their specific environments and preferences. Whether placed in a small room or a large open space, the PV1 can be calibrated to deliver optimal performance.

For ease of integration within home entertainment systems, the PV1 includes a range of connectivity options, including high-level and low-level inputs. This versatility makes it compatible with various audio setups, ensuring that users can enjoy high-quality bass regardless of their equipment.

In summary, the Bowers & Wilkins PV1 is a premium subwoofer that blends cutting-edge technology with sophisticated aesthetics. With its powerful drivers, innovative cabinet design, Flowport technology, and adaptability, it provides an exceptional listening experience that can satisfy the most discerning audiophiles. Whether for music or home theater use, the PV1 is an outstanding choice for those seeking superior bass performance.