KEF R11 Meta vs Bowers & Wilkins 702 S3 Signature

Best For

Best for Home Theater

KEF R11 Meta

Better Soundstage

KEF R11 Meta

Best for Audiophile Listening

Bowers & Wilkins 702 S3 Signature

Better Bass Performance

KEF R11 Meta

Best Value

KEF R11 Meta

The Bowers & Wilkins 702 S3 Signature and KEF R11 Meta are premium floorstanding speakers designed for serious audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts. Both deliver high sensitivity, powerful three-way designs, and exceptional sound quality, but they approach audio reproduction differently. The 702 S3 Signature focuses on refined studio-grade accuracy with advanced Carbon Dome tweeter technology and premium crossover upgrades. Meanwhile, the KEF R11 Meta introduces Meta Material Absorption Technology (MAT) and the latest Uni-Q driver array for improved clarity, imaging, and sound dispersion. Choosing between them depends on whether you prioritize reference-grade musicality or a broader, more immersive listening experience.

Verdict

The KEF R11 Meta offers the more advanced overall package thanks to its MAT technology, wider frequency range, lower distortion, stronger bass capability, and superior signal-to-noise ratio. It is an excellent choice for listeners seeking a highly detailed and immersive soundstage. The Bowers & Wilkins 702 S3 Signature remains a fantastic option for audiophiles who value precise tonal balance, premium craftsmanship, and the signature Bowers & Wilkins sound. For most buyers, however, the KEF R11 Meta provides better overall performance and value.

Crossover Frequency : 330 Hz, 2.5 KHz Frequency Range ( -6dB ) : 30 Hz - 50 KHz Frequency Response ( Â±3dB ) : 46 Hz - 28 KHz Typical In-Room Bass Response ( -6dB ) : 26 Hz Harmonic Distortion ( 90dB, 1m ) : <1% 33 Hz & Above, <0.5% 80 Hz - 20 KHz

3-Way Vented-Box System. 5-Year warranty Valid from the date of purchase for passive loudspeakers. The 702 S3 Signature takes our state-of-the-art flagship 700 Series tower loudspeaker and evolves it to deliver unparalleled levels of performance. Technical Features - Decoupled Carbon Dome Tweeter, Solid Body Tweeter-On-Top, Continuumâ„¢ Cone FSTâ„¢ Midrange, Decoupled Midrange, Aerofoilâ„¢ Profile Bass Cones, Flowportâ„¢. The 705 S3 Signature is engineered to deliver sonic brilliance in a more compact form. This Signature stand-mount loudspeaker builds on the performance levels of the Bowers & Wilkins 705 S3, evolving them to new heights. Engineered for pristine studio-quality sound at home, the 702 S3 Signature utilizes upgraded midrange and low-frequency motor systems, improved capacitors, revised speaker terminals, plus a more open tweeter grille mesh, as developed for our 800 Series Signature loudspeakers.

The R11 Meta is the largest floorstanding model of the R Series. Meta Material Absortion technology absorbs 99% of unwanted sound for the most pure and natural sound. For a breathtaking listening experience, the R11's combination of 12th generation Uni-Q driver array with MAT and four 6.5â€ hybrid aluminum bass drivers allow it to pick out the subtle details of a recording, while also delivering raw power and agility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which product is better for gaming?

The KEF R11 Meta is better for gaming thanks to its wider sound dispersion, stronger bass response, and immersive soundstage that enhances positional audio.

Does the Bowers & Wilkins 702 S3 Signature support Dolby Atmos?

No, the Bowers & Wilkins 702 S3 Signature is a passive floorstanding speaker and does not natively support Dolby Atmos processing.

Which speaker delivers deeper bass?

The KEF R11 Meta delivers deeper bass with its four 165 mm bass drivers and lower in-room bass extension down to 26 Hz.

Which speaker is better for music listening?

Both are excellent for music, but the Bowers & Wilkins 702 S3 Signature is preferred by listeners who prioritize accuracy and natural tonal balance.

Is the KEF R11 Meta worth the upgrade?

Yes, the KEF R11 Meta offers advanced MAT technology, lower distortion, improved imaging, and a more spacious presentation, making it a worthwhile upgrade for many users.

Which speaker offers better overall performance?

The KEF R11 Meta provides the stronger overall performance with better technical specifications, enhanced clarity, and a more immersive listening experience.

Top Differences

Sound Output: 30W vs 15W
Channels: 30 vs 15
Bluetooth: na vs yes
Frequency Response: 28 Hz - 33 kHz, 46 Hz - 28 kHz vs Crossover Frequency : 330 Hz, 2.5 KHz Frequency Range ( -6dB ) : 30 Hz - 50 KHz Frequency Response ( Â±3dB ) : 46 Hz - 28 KHz Typical In-Room Bass Response ( -6dB ) : 26 Hz Harmonic Distortion ( 90dB, 1m ) : <1% 33 Hz & Above, <0.5% 80 Hz - 20 KHz
Subwoofer Size: 25 mm vs 125 mm

Best For

Verdict

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Frequently Asked Questions

Top Differences