Bowers & Wilkins ASW608 Review – High-end Subwoofer

With a volume of less than a cubic foot, this little subwoofer delivers strong bass without taking up much room.

Written by AudioGuru Staff | Updated January 6, 2023
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Bowers & Wilkins ASW608 Review – High-end Subwoofer

The Bowers & Wilkins ASW608 is proof that powerful bass can be enjoyed without a sizable subwoofer. This little powered subwoofer has a volume of less than one cubic foot, making it perfect for small to medium-sized spaces where you want precise, responsive bass for music and movies. A 200-watt RMS amplifier powers the 8″ front-firing woofer on the ASW608. It is the perfect addition to Bowers & Wilkins 600 Series floor-standing and bookshelf speakers.

Our Verdict

4.5

This subwoofer will delightfully exceed your expectations because it is compact but perfectly formed.

Pros

  • Astonishing grip and musical low-end control for one so small
  • Beautifully made

Cons

  • Limited by its size
  • Will make complaining noises if overdriven

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Highlights

  • Continuously variable 40-140 Hz crossover
  • Acoustic suspension (sealed) enclosure
  • Speaker-level and line-level stereo RCA inputs
  • Bass EQ switch helps you fine-tune the sound to match your room
  • Phase switch helps match the subwoofer to your main speakers

What’s in the box?

Powered subwoofer, Grille, 6.5′ AC power cord, 4 Rubber feet, 4 Spike feet, 4 Lock-nuts, Manual, Bowers & Wilkins brochure and Warranty Information

Price and Availability

Price and Availability

The Bowers & Wilkins ASW608 is available for just under ₹85,000. You can get more detailed information about the ASW608 price in India and availability by consulting us.

Design


Design

Even though this little box is sealed, it nonetheless has a 200-Watt amplifier that fires in the forward direction. Although it’s not unheard of for very small boxes to pump out considerable amounts of bass, in order to achieve really low bass notes, a huge driver is typically needed to move sizable volumes of air. So, we’re eager to see how the ‘608 performs.

Sure enough, compared to other drivers, the relatively small driver does fall a little short when it comes to digging really deeply. There are many occasions in Underworld: Rise of the Lycans for the sub to flex its muscles, and the ASW608 delivers with speed, vigor, and punch. While there are obviously issues with the deep basslines, if you’re looking for a small, well-built box, this is still a good choice.

Sound Quality

Sound Quality

The B&W insignia can be seen on the grille as well as the front panel’s plush surface, making the 608 a well-designed vehicle. With a selection of EQ curves pre-programmed by switches and the customary phase, gain, and crossover point settings, the rear controls are simple yet thoughtful.

I was concerned that I was being harsh and lazy by not purchasing a smaller system to test the subwoofer against, but I’ve been completely amazed by how capable a piece of equipment this is. At this entry-level pricing, something must undoubtedly be sacrificed, and you don’t get any bone-grabbing bass, but the lack of compromise in terms of pure musicality and bass extension depth is astounding.

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Specifications

Brand : Bowers & Wilkins
Model : ASW608
Drive units : ø200mm (8in) paper / Aramid fibre cone long-throw
Amplifier power output : 200W
Power consumption : 40W / 0.5W standby
Dimensions : 260 x 260 x 305 mm (WxHxD)
Net Weight : 8.85kg (19.5lb)

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Conclusion

I was unsure how well the B&W ASW608, which is touted as the most portable of the 600 series subwoofers, would complement my reference speakers, a fantastic set of Bowers & Wilkins 800 series right now. This beastie is constructed of equally-rugged components, even down to the Kevlar fibers impregnating the resin and paper pulp cone. You would never order a woofer as tiny as this and a set of main speakers as powerful as the 800s, but as they are made with equally-rugged components, you could. Overall, I had a great experience with the ASW608, loved the bass, and would highly suggest it.

AudioGuru Staff

AudioGuru Staff

AudioGuru is a platform where we review and recommend audio products. When it comes to purchasing decisions, our journalists combine independent research with extensive testing to save you time, energy, and money. We’ll help you get it right, whether it’s finding an amazing product or getting useful advice.

Share Your Personal Experience by Writing a Review.

    The Making is best for your music system

    By Jasmeet Singh 

    Length of Use: Less than 3 months

    Overall Experience:

    decent sound quality but inadequate quality control. came with a bent shaft for the volume knob. No packaging or box damage. Even in relatively small spaces, the 8-in driver of the ASW608 is built for rapid, tight, and dramatic bass. Power-packed. ASW608 has a strong interior.

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