B&W

B&W, an acronym for Bower and Wilkins, is a British manufacturer for high-end loudspeakers for home theatre and other hi-fi systems. Each of their speakers uses Kevlar synthetic aramid fibre, manufactured by DuPont, which is also used in bullet-proof vests. The ability of this material to dissipate energy, coupled with strength is beneficial to the cone of the speaker. The material has been in use since 1976, starting with the DM6 speakers. The material gives better results in critical mid-range sound frequencies. The material is also treated with resin that controls stiffness and a PVA compound that adds damping and helps seal the fabric. Flowport integrated in the cone has dimples that reduce turbulence.

The crossover is one of the most important parts of the speaker since it does all the mechanical work. The drivers act on the signals distributed to them by the electrical processing part. Therefore, they are critically selected according to the speaker. The de-coupling of the B&W prevents mechanical vibration from the bass cabinet reaching the tweeter. B&W uses diamond as a tweeter as it is one of the stiffest materials available. The cabinet of the speaker reduces the coloration, using two technologies: damping that decreases the resonance hangover, and bracing. The drives of the speakers use a mushroom type diaphragm construction, maximising the rigidity by bonding the cone.