B&W M-1 loudspeaker and PV1 subwoofer [Review ]

adjustments to the tonal balance by moving

“The sound as a whole is beautifully neutral

There’s considerable scope for making subtle

and natural, providing well-focused stereo,

blocking the M-1 ports. Under our conditions,

the subwoofer and satellites around and/or

albeit with some lack of depth resolution.”

ports blocked and placed on stands clear of

best results for the M-1 were found with the

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

walls; the PV1 likewise works best away from

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

nearby walls, to avoid excessive mid-bass.

just 1dB below that claimed, yet it isn’t

 

Unsurprisingly, the PV1 definitely

The net result, under our far-field conditions,

particularly easy to drive, with an impedance

outperforms the M-1, delivering clean, crisp

is a quite superbly well-balanced in-room

between four and six ohms through most of

bass and driving along any techno or hip-hop

frequency response. It’s not entirely smooth

the bass and midband.

beats with appropriate enthusiasm and punch,

and free from character, though the variations

Initially, the sub/sat combo showed rather

plus considerable weight and authority. And

remain very well controlled. There are slight

obvious dynamic range constraints, as well as

the sound as a whole is beautifully neutral and

midband dips at 1.3kHz and 3.5kHz, which

noticeable midband coloration and congestion.

natural, providing a very well-focused stereo

may well account for the nasality that is just

However, after a little acclimatisation the

soundstage, albeit with some lack of depth

audible with speech. The treble is a little

strengths of this combo started to come

resolution and perspectives.

strong, relatively speaking, with a distinct peak

through, unlike the performance of many

 

It might be difficult to endorse the M-1’s

at around 12kHz, and this is audible as a

sub/sat systems. One seemed to adjust to its

audiophile pretensions with real enthusiasm,

degree of top end emphasis, though happily

limitations easily, and if the end result falls

but it’s very easy to like and enjoy – it’s

it’s also quite sweet and delicate.

well short of the best in full-sized loudspeakers,

exceptionally neat and discreet, and relatively

The small main driver and enclosure

that’s hardly surprising given the modest price

inexpensive too. And that’s praise-worthy in a

inevitably lead to a correspondingly ‘small’

and size of the M-1 satellites, and they

very small satellite speaker. HFC

measured performance. On our measure,

certainly deserve commendation for an

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Paul Messenger

sensitivity achieves an unusually low 84dB,

essentially vice-free performance.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

VERDICT

 

MULTICHANNEL PERFORMANCE

SOUND >> 70%

R PRO

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The M-1 is an exceptionally

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

neat and solid satellite

 

 

EASE OF DRIVE >> 70%

speaker, with an impressively

 

 

even and neutral balance, and

The B&W system is not about stereo, really. The system is referred to as ‘Mini Theatre’ by B&W, which is a bit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

very clever and flexible

of a giveaway. There are three versions of Mini Theatre, and the choice swings on the subwoofer.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

mounting arrangements.

BUILD >> 90%

 

S CON

We compared the mid-price MT-20 system (five M-1s and an AS2 subwoofer) with the top MT-30 system

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Midband dynamics lack

(identical save for a PV1 in place of the AS2). The AS2 is a 150W square closed-box sub with a 250mm cone

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

vigour, there’s some

bass unit. And, surprise, surprise, the MT-30 is clearly better than the cheaper system, the sub

VALUE >> 85%

coloration and congestion

here, and the top end is a

filling out the sound and improving the separation along the way. The MT-20’s

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

shade strong.

no slouch, though; it’s deep and possibly a better match for the M-1.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CONCLUSION

 

What both systems have is an ability to melt away the slight colorations

 

Not exactly audiophile, but a

beautifully balanced and neutral

heard in two channel. The sound is accurate if bright, and perfectly steered

combo with kickin’ bass. It may

be colored and congested in

around the room. Both systems are also extremely fast (often, better but

2.1 mode, but the 5.1 performance focuses the listener on the

positives, not the limitations, and makes a lot of sense.

deeper subwoofers slow down the sound). This is principally good

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

home cinema, but tidy multichannel audio, too. HFC

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Alan Sircom

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OVERALL SCORE >> 77%

 

 

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Bowers & Wilkins M-1 manual Multichannel Performance, Sound as a whole is beautifully neutral

M-1 specifications

The Bowers & Wilkins M-1 is a compact speaker that delivers premium sound quality while maintaining an elegant design. Engineered for versatility, the M-1 can be used as a standalone speaker or integrated into a multi-room audio system. This speaker is popular among audiophiles and casual listeners alike, thanks to its ability to produce clear highs, detailed mids, and powerful lows.

One of the standout features of the Bowers & Wilkins M-1 is its use of a unique 25mm aluminum dome tweeter. This technology allows for accurate high-frequency reproduction and a wider dispersion of sound, ensuring that listeners can enjoy quality audio from various angles. The M-1 also houses a custom-designed 4-inch bass/midrange driver that enables rich mid-range tones and a full-bodied bass response, providing an engaging listening experience across different genres of music.

Bowers & Wilkins has also implemented advanced speaker technologies in the M-1, including a reinforced cabinet design that minimizes resonance and distortion. This ensures that audio playback remains true to the original recording, allowing users to hear the music as intended by the artists. Additionally, the M-1 features integrated mounting options, making it easy to place the speakers on walls or ceilings. Its compact size makes it an ideal choice for smaller rooms or spaces where traditional speaker systems may not fit.

The M-1’s aesthetic appeal is another significant characteristic that sets it apart. With a contemporary design and sleek finish options, it seamlessly blends with modern interiors. Available in multiple colors, the M-1 can complement a range of decor styles while still serving as a high-performance audio solution.

Moreover, the Bowers & Wilkins M-1 is compatible with a variety of amplification systems and can be used in both stereo and surround sound setups. This flexibility makes it an excellent choice for home theaters or music listening, allowing users to customize their audio experience according to their preferences.

In summary, the Bowers & Wilkins M-1 combines innovative audio technology, aesthetic design, and versatile functionality. Whether used as a part of a larger system or as stand-alone speakers, the M-1 delivers an impressive audio performance that satisfies even the most discerning listeners. Its balance of form and function makes it a compelling choice for anyone seeking to elevate their listening experience.