First introduced in 2007 as the ultimate iPod dock, the newest Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin has been re-imagined for the streaming age, with a smarter and more flexible design enabling high-resolution music.
For more than 15 years, each new generation of Zeppelin has been defined by its shape, which is defined by acoustics. The new and completely redesigned Zeppelin is available in two finishes, one dark (midnight grey) and one light (pearl grey) and now includes switchable, dimmable ambient lighting to create a “halo” lighting effect on to its metal pedestal stand.
Bowers & Wilkins Engineering for Performance
The new Zeppelin is a complete stereo system in one component, featuring dedicated left and right speaker assemblies around a central, large subwoofer, all powered by 240W of amplification.
Those premium components are mounted in an ultra-rigid, FEA-optimized enclosure that is carefully sculpted to ensure the best possible acoustic performance, with minimal material around the edges of each drive unit for outstanding sound dispersion. The result is room-filling stereo sound, according to the company.
The new Zeppelin’s two Decoupled Double-Dome tweeters – originally featured in the 600 Anniversary Series – are mounted at the far edges of the enclosure and are fully isolated from vibrations running through the cabinet generated by other, larger drive units. This ensures a wide, spacious, and highly accurate sound.
The tweeters are paired with 90mm midrange drivers using Bowers & Wilkins proprietary Fixed Suspension Transducer (FST) technology, which is found in all of the company’s premium floor-standing speakers, including the reference 800 Series Diamond, the monitor speaker of choice for Abbey Road Studios.
Finally, a new 150mm subwoofer is on hand to add deep, detailed and refined bass to the open, high-resolution sound of the combined system. Mounted centrally at the heart of the Zeppelin’s structure, its design is carefully optimized to avoid unwanted “rocking” of the cabinet as it operates, resulting in a cleaner sounding and more agile bass delivery.
Streaming Capabilities
For streaming music from a mobile device, tablet, or computer, the new Zeppelin includes both AirPlay 2 and aptX Adaptive Bluetooth, making it suitable for both iOS and Android users. Spotify fans can enjoy the convenience of Spotify Connect, ensuring both high-quality sound and convenient, easy operation.
The new Zeppelin also can be controlled via the Bowers & Wilkins Music App, which gives instant access to a host of streaming services including Deezer, Last.fm, Qobuz, Soundcloud, TIDAL and TuneIn. More services are being added regularly.
Connected, Smart, Intuitive
The new Zeppelin offers Alexa built-in – no need for any external components. Simply ask for the song you want to hear, and your Zeppelin will oblige. If you prefer, your Zeppelin can be operated by physical buttons on the top rear of its elegant enclosure.
Finally, the new Zeppelin has been engineered to last. Its powerful digital “brain” can be upgraded over time, with multi-room capability planned for introduction in early 2022. That will make the Zeppelin compatible with both other new Zeppelins in a multiroom environment or, if you prefer, a multiroom system based on Bowers & Wilkins own Formation range of high-resolution wireless speakers.
The Zeppelin is available now in Midnight Grey or Pearl Grey from $799.00 USD.
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