8 October 2015
New: B&W Zeppelin without dock, but with lots of wireless
As can be seen with the revolutionary new 800 series, the English manufacturer Bowers & Wilkins is currently ready to break with old traditions. So it's not surprising that the new generation of the desktop sound system Zeppelin no longer features the previously standard iPhone dock.
The new version is called Zeppelin Wireless, and the name says it all. The compact active speaker in its characteristic shape receives digital music signals via Bluetooth 4.0 including aptX codec, Apple AirPlay, and Spotify Connect. The network connection needed for the latter two standards can be established not only via Wi-Fi but also through a network cable, and a 3.5mm jack input is also available.
The egg shape remains, but otherwise the Zeppelin Wireless has been completely redesigned from the ground up. The housing now features fiberglass reinforcements, and the front is a hefty 50% thicker than its predecessor. Together, these changes further reduce unwanted cabinet resonances.
At the center, there is now a new woofer with a 150mm diaphragm, a powerful magnetic drive, and enormous excursion capabilities. This has even eliminated the need for bass support via a bass reflex port. Two 90mm midrange drivers with seamless FST construction and two tweeters with double-layered 25mm domes complete the stereo system in a very compact space. All drivers are powered by their own highly efficient Class-D amplifiers, with a total output of 150 watts. Control of the Zeppelin Wireless is as usual via the device itself or—very much in keeping with the times—through the new Control app for iOS, OS X, and Windows. Not only can you control playback through this app, but you can also adjust settings and install firmware updates with ease.
The B&W Zeppelin Wireless is available now for 699.00 euros. More information can be found on the manufacturer's website.
