First of all, even if it is not obvious to differentiate the new wireless B&W Zeppelin from its predecessor, the B&W Zeppelin Wireless, which appeared in 2015 (as a reminder, the first B&W Zeppelin was marketed in 2007), an eye warned nonetheless notices a slightly different aesthetic: a shorter hair but higher and deeper. However, the total weight remains unchanged at 6.5 kilos.
Development of the Zeppelin 2021 using the finite element analysis method
Similarly, an ultra-rigid case developed using the finite element analysis (FEA) method is required. This computerized process makes it possible to model, and therefore to anticipate, the reaction of a product exposed to real forces: flows of fluids, waves, vibrations, heat, etc. With the aim of optimizing the manufacture of said product. And B&W has made use of new components, in particular DSP (see photo above), for an unprecedented sound rendering, even more detailed and dynamic.
AirPlay 2, Bluetooth APT- X Adaptive and Spotify Connect
For the rest, as already announced in the introduction to this news, the new wireless Zeppelin is devoid of all connectors, or almost. All that remains in the running is a USB-C port entirely devoted to maintenance. The Lightning or 30-pin docking stations available on the original Zeppelin having disappeared, remain on the menu streaming protocols via AirPlay 2 compatibility, Bluetooth 5.0 APT-X Adaptive, or Spotify Connect certification (via Wi-Fi).
Technical specifications
Technically, active 2.1 speaker, the new wireless B&W Zeppelin integrates five speakers, two original 25mm double dome tweeters originally developed for Bowers & Wilkins Series 600 Anniversary speakers, two 90mm midrange FST patented B&W) and a 150 mm woofer, all managed by a Class D power supply. To be complete on the subject, it should be noted that the FST medium is directly the result of research and development carried out for the prestigious Diamond speaker series 800 of the brand.
Amazon Alexa built-in
Namely, the new wireless B&W Zeppelin can be integrated (Firmware update expected for 2022) within a B&W Formation multiroom configuration (see our news Bowers & Wilkins Formation, hi-fi multiroom speakers without wire). Finally, the Alexa voice assistant is on board for voice control of the speaker.
Immediate availability in dark gray and dark gray colors. Indicative price: 799 euros.
Reminder of the key features of the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin:
• Type: 2.1 active connected speakers
• Tweeters: 2 x 25 mm double dome
• Boomer: 15 cm
• Midrange: 2 x 90 mm FST
• Power: 240 W
• Bandwidth: 35-24,000 Hz
• Certification: Hi-Res Audio
• Wi compatibility -Fi
• Bluetooth 5.0 APT-X compatibility
• AirPlay 2 compatibility
• Spotify Connect compatibility
• Multiroom: yes
• Dimensions (W x D x H) : 650 x 210 x 194 mm
• Weight: 6.5 kg