Bowers & Wilkins has launched the 801 Abbey Road Limited Edition speakers, a new offering priced at $70,000 per pair. This exclusive release pays homage to the iconic Abbey Road Studios, where legendary bands like The Beatles recorded many of their albums. Only 144 pairs of these speakers have been produced, making them a rare addition for audiophiles and music enthusiasts.
The Bowers & Wilkins 801 speakers were originally developed by the company’s co-founder, John Bowers, in 1979. They have since become synonymous with high-quality sound, particularly at Abbey Road Studios. The limited edition speakers showcase a vintage dark walnut finish that mirrors the piano used by Paul McCartney for the song “Lady Madonna.” The red leather accents also reflect the control room seating and console used for recordings by Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin.
Exclusive Features and Historical Significance
Each pair of the 801 Abbey Road Limited Edition speakers comes with a hardcover book detailing the rich history of Abbey Road Studios. Additionally, owners will have the opportunity to participate in an exclusive tour of the studio, a unique experience not available to the general public. Bowers & Wilkins will notify owners about the event directly.
During a recent demonstration at Audio Advice Live 25 in Raleigh, North Carolina, attendees were treated to the impressive capabilities of the 801 Abbey Road Limited Edition. The speakers were paired with a Marantz electronics stack, featuring a Link 10N preamp and two Model 10 integrated units used as mono amplifiers. The demo featured a range of tracks, showcasing the speakers’ ability to deliver clear, dynamic sound across various musical genres.
Sound Quality and Performance
The demonstration began with the main theme from the “Raiders of the Lost Ark” soundtrack, recorded at Abbey Road Studios in 1981. The crisp brass sounds and powerful bass were handled effortlessly by the speakers, demonstrating their high-performance capabilities. Following this, a track by Sam Smith highlighted the smooth vocal reproduction of the 801 Abbey Road Limited Edition.
However, it was the electronic track “Imaginary Friends” by Deadmau5 that truly showcased the speakers’ potential, creating a rich and immersive sonic environment. The swirling synths and electronic beats filled the room, leaving a lasting impression on listeners.
As the US tour continues, opportunities to experience the Bowers & Wilkins 801 Abbey Road Limited Edition speakers remain available. For those who appreciate exceptional sound quality and have a passion for music history, this limited edition offering is a unique chance to connect with the legacy of Abbey Road Studios.
