Bowers & Wilkins 800 Diamond D3 - Turbine Head

One of the characteristic features of the 800 series since the first 801 is the structure with separate and decoupled enclosures for the bass, midrange and tweeter. In the more modern incarnations of the series, the midrange housing is rounded, which resulted in enormous rigidity for the housing and the elimination of standing waves inside. This principle has now been consistently further developed for the new Diamond D3 series to the so-called turbine head in order to do justice to the improved capabilities of the Continuum mid-range driver. Perhaps the most important change is hidden under the high-quality multi-layer paint of the premium speakers. Because the complex shapes of the "turbine heads" of the 800 D3, 802 D3 and 803 D3 consist entirely of aluminum, which is shaped inside and out in numerous complicated processing steps.

This shape initially creates a more pleasing, more elegant line, but of course, above all, has technical advantages. The slimmer silhouette noticeably improves the sound radiation of the midrange driver. Radially arranged struts on the inside ensure great stability.
In addition, the entire shape was designed in such a way that mechanical vibrations are reduced to a minimum. The interior of the Turbine Head was in turn shaped in such a way that it supports the work of the Continuum midrange driver as much as possible and minimizes sound-disturbing effects such as resonances and standing waves. As with all other aspects of the completely redesigned Series 800 Diamond, the turbine head was of course also developed with the aid of the most modern computer technology. The English engineers quickly decided on cast aluminum as a material because of its excellent mechanical properties. However, the internal and external shape was optimized in a lengthy process. B&W was able to fall back on the skills of its own model makers who work in the development department. The first casting models were commissioned from a nearby foundry. As a result, the cycle of simulation - model test - simulation of the improvements - new model test could be completed relatively quickly.
The result of these efforts is a new head that is many times more rigid than the previous design and offers the new Continuum drivers a perfect environment. Together, the Turbine Head and Continuum Chassis deliver a performance at medium frequencies that clearly outshines what has been seen so far. All information about the new Bowers & Wilkins Series 800 Diamond D3: www.auditorium.de