Overview

The Bowers & Wilkins Matrix 801 Series 3 (1992–1998) is the final revision of the famed Matrix 801 line. It’s a 3-way bass-reflex floorstander with one 300 mm (12 in) woofer, one 126 mm (5 in) Kevlar midrange, and one 26 mm (1 in) metal-dome tweeter. The cabinet uses Matrix internal bracing; the crossover is set at 380 Hz / 3 kHz. Professional studio adoption, including EMI/Abbey Road Studios, cemented its reputation[1][3].

Scientific Validity

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Official specs list frequency range (−6 dB) 17.5 Hz–25 kHz with the optional alignment filter / 24 Hz–25 kHz without, free-field frequency response ±2 dB: 20 Hz–20 kHz (with filter) / 39 Hz–20 kHz (without), sensitivity 87 dB (2.83 V/1 m), nominal impedance 4 Ω, and distortion at 95 dB/1 m: 2nd <1.5% (20–100 Hz) / <0.5% (100 Hz–20 kHz); 3rd <0.5% (20 Hz–20 kHz)[1]. While Series-3-specific spin data is scarce, Series 2 measurements show presence-region lift and top-octave shortfall[2]. Strong performance for its era, but shy of today’s state-of-the-art linearity; hence 0.6.
Note: with the alignment filter, LF extends to 19 Hz (−3 dB)[1].

Technology Level

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Matrix bracing, a separate head unit with the tweeter perched above the midrange enclosure, and crossover refinements are technically sound for reducing cabinet colorations and diffraction. Still, the large passive 3-way architecture predates modern DSP-assisted active solutions that more easily deliver textbook linearity/directivity. Solid 1990s engineering, not revolutionary in 2025: 0.7.

Cost-Performance

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Review price set at 1,800 USD for a representative used pair. The Emotiva Airmotiv T2+ (commonly available, ~999 USD/pair) provides documented CTA-2034 data with ≈±2.5 dB on-axis linearity, low distortion, and rated extension to 35 Hz (±3 dB)—equal or better LF extension versus the 801 S3’s ±2 dB to 39 Hz without the filter, at far lower cost[4].
Computation: 999 USD ÷ 1,800 USD = 0.555… → 0.6 (one-decimal rounding).

Reliability & Support

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As a discontinued 1990s model, aging crossover parts (e.g., electrolytics) often warrant service. B&W provides legacy documentation but no active warranty. The enclosure/drivers are robust, yet original parts availability is limited. Average overall: 0.5.

Rationality of Design Philosophy

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The 801 S3 follows scientifically grounded practices (stiff cabinet, diffraction control, low-distortion goal). Still, the large passive concept is less compelling against today’s compact active DSP designs that achieve higher measured transparency with less trial-and-error. Hence 0.5.

Advice

Pick the 801 S3 if you value vintage studio heritage, high output, and the classic B&W voicing. Without the alignment filter, remember its ±2 dB window only reaches to 39 Hz; careful placement and room EQ help[1]. Budget for crossover refurbishment and ample amplification. If your priority is measured transparency per dollar, modern towers like Emotiva Airmotiv T2+ with published spin data are compelling[4].

References

[1] Bowers & Wilkins — Matrix 801 Series 3 User Manual (official PDF): https://www.bowerswilkins.com/on/demandware.static/-/Library-Sites-bowers_apac_shared/default/dw019745d9/archive-manuals/eng_ft00009_matrix-801-s3_manual.pdf
[2] Stereophile — B&W Matrix 801 Series 2 loudspeaker Measurements: https://www.stereophile.com/content/bw-matrix-801-series-2-loudspeaker-measurements
[3] Bowers & Wilkins Blog — History of the 800 Series: https://www.bowerswilkins.com/en-us/blog/products/history-of-800-series.html
[4] Erin’s Audio Corner — Emotiva Airmotiv T2+ Tower Speaker Review (price & measurements): https://www.erinsaudiocorner.com/loudspeakers/emotiva_airmotiv_t2plus/

(2025.8.20)