Name: Bowers & Wilkins Z2
Brand: Bowers & Wilkins

Technical Specifications of portable speaker Bowers & Wilkins Z2

Overall score

7.4

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by products in the Portable Speakers category.

When it matters: When you prefer products in the Portable Speakers category that have been chosen and reviewed by many other buyers.

Audio

7.6

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Audio output power

What it is: The maximum continuous power the speaker system can deliver.

When it matters: When you need enough output to fill a larger or noisier space.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >= 20 W

Driver unit size

What it is: The diameter of each main speaker driver.

When it matters: When the size of the main driver influences bass reach and output capability.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >= 50 mm

Number of drivers

What it is: The total number of speaker drivers built into the unit.

When it matters: When fuller driver arrays and broader sound coverage matter.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >= 2

Frequency response tolerance

What it is: The allowed deviation around the stated frequency response curve.

When it matters: When a flatter and more accurate frequency response matters.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <= 3 dB

Lowest frequency

What it is: The lowest audible frequency the speaker can reproduce.

When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <= 60 Hz

Connectivity

6.5

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Bluetooth connectivity

What it is: Indicates whether the speaker can receive audio over Bluetooth.

When it matters: When wireless playback from phones, tablets, or computers matters.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: yes

Bluetooth version

What it is: The generation of Bluetooth supported by the speaker hardware.

When it matters: When compatibility and efficiency with newer Bluetooth devices matter.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >= 5.0

Maximum Bluetooth range

What it is: The farthest distance at which the Bluetooth link can remain usable.

When it matters: When the source device may be far from the speaker.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >= 10 m

Bluetooth profiles supported

What it is: The Bluetooth operating profiles available for playback, control, or calls.

When it matters: When Bluetooth playback, control, and call compatibility depend on specific profiles.

Importance: LOW

Bluetooth LE Audio

What it is: Shows whether the speaker supports the low-energy Bluetooth audio standard.

When it matters: When newer low-power Bluetooth audio features matter.

Importance: LOW

Good value: yes

Battery

8.0

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Battery life

What it is: The playback time available from one full battery charge.

When it matters: When you need longer playback between charges.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >= 20 h

Battery capacity

What it is: The amount of electrical charge the internal battery can store.

When it matters: When longer untethered playback or power-bank use needs more stored charge.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >= 5000 mAh

Charging time

What it is: The time needed to recharge the battery fully.

When it matters: When the speaker needs to be ready again quickly.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <= 4 h

Maximum charging input power

What it is: The maximum charging power the speaker can accept from a compatible power source.

When it matters: When faster charging requires the speaker to accept more input power.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >= 20 W

Built-in rechargeable battery

What it is: Indicates whether the speaker uses a battery that can be recharged.

When it matters: When portable use without disposable batteries or continuous mains power matters.

Importance: LOW

Good value: yes

Durability

8.7

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IP rating

What it is: The ingress protection code for dust and water resistance.

When it matters: When dust and water protection need to match the intended environment.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: IP67+

Water resistance

What it is: Indicates whether the enclosure can resist water exposure.

When it matters: When the speaker may be used near pools, rain, or splashes.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: yes

Dust resistance

What it is: Shows whether the enclosure is protected against dust ingress.

When it matters: When the speaker may be exposed to sand, soil, or dusty environments.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: yes

Waterproof depth rating

What it is: The maximum water depth the speaker is rated to withstand.

When it matters: When the speaker may be submerged or used very close to water.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >= 1 m

Drop resistance

What it is: Indicates whether the housing is designed to survive accidental drops.

When it matters: When the speaker may be bumped or suffer an accidental fall during outdoor or travel use.

Importance: LOW

Good value: yes

Controls

4.7

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On-device controls placement

What it is: The physical area of the speaker where its controls are located.

When it matters: When you want controls that are easy to reach in the speaker intended placement.

Importance: LOW

top; side

Touchscreen

What it is: Indicates whether a touch-sensitive screen is integrated.

When it matters: When direct visual control is more convenient than buttons or an app.

Importance: LOW

Good value: yes

Smartphone app control

What it is: Shows whether the speaker can be controlled from a phone app.

When it matters: When remote settings, updates, or sound adjustment from a phone matter.

Importance: LOW

Good value: yes

Remote control

What it is: Indicates whether a dedicated remote control is supplied or supported.

When it matters: When you want to control playback from across the room.

Importance: LOW

Good value: yes

Fast pairing

What it is: Shows whether setup with compatible devices can be completed more quickly.

When it matters: When quick setup with compatible devices matters.

Importance: LOW

Good value: yes

Design

6.7

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Weight

What it is: The total mass of the portable speaker.

When it matters: When carrying the speaker frequently or packing light matters.

Importance: LOW

Good value: <= 1000 g

Height

What it is: The vertical external dimension of the speaker body.

When it matters: When the speaker must fit beneath shelves or in a compact bag.

Importance: LOW

Good value: <= 20 cm

Width

What it is: The side-to-side external dimension of the speaker body.

When it matters: When the speaker must fit a narrow shelf, bag, or tabletop.

Importance: LOW

Good value: <= 25 cm

Depth

What it is: The front-to-back depth of the speaker housing.

When it matters: When the speaker should take up less front-to-back space.

Importance: LOW

Good value: <= 10 cm

Carry options

What it is: The available ways to carry, hang, or attach the speaker.

When it matters: When a handle, strap, or attachment point changes how you carry the speaker.

Importance: LOW

none

Smart features

5.6

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Companion app name

What it is: The official app used to control settings and functions of the speaker.

When it matters: When app compatibility and the available control features depend on the official app.

Importance: LOW

Firmware updates

What it is: Indicates whether the speaker can receive firmware revisions after purchase.

When it matters: When post-purchase fixes and feature improvements matter.

Importance: LOW

Good value: yes

Firmware update method

What it is: The path used to install firmware updates on the speaker.

When it matters: When the convenience and reliability of installing updates matters.

Importance: LOW

Voice assistant support

What it is: Indicates whether the speaker can work with supported voice assistants.

When it matters: When hands-free control through a compatible assistant matters.

Importance: LOW

Good value: yes

Spotify Connect

What it is: Shows whether Spotify can stream directly to the speaker over the network.

When it matters: When Spotify should stream directly without keeping phone audio active.

Importance: LOW

Good value: yes

Bowers & Wilkins Z2 vs the average portable speaker

Why is Bowers & Wilkins Z2 better than the average portable speaker?

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37 mm larger main driver
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 has a larger main driver than the average portable speaker (87 mm vs 50.00 mm).
Primary driver diameter: 87.00 mm.
What it is: The diameter of each main speaker driver.
When it matters: When the size of the main driver influences bass reach and output capability.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >= 50 mm
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 has a larger main driver than the average portable speaker (87 mm vs 50.00 mm).87.00 mm vs 50.00 mm
Supports Wi-Fi connectivity
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 supports Wi-Fi connectivity, while the average portable speaker does not support Wi-Fi connectivity.
What it is: Indicates whether the speaker can connect to wireless local networks.
When it matters: When direct network streaming or smart multi-room features matter.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: yes
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 supports Wi-Fi connectivity, while the average portable speaker does not support Wi-Fi connectivity.
Supports AirPlay
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 supports AirPlay, while the average portable speaker does not support AirPlay.
Supports Apple AirPlay.
What it is: Indicates whether Apple AirPlay streaming is supported.
When it matters: When wireless playback from Apple devices and multi-room setups matters.
Importance: LOW
Good value: yes
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 supports AirPlay, while the average portable speaker does not support AirPlay.
Has built-in stereo speakers
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 has built-in stereo speakers, while the average portable speaker does not have built-in stereo speakers.
Provides true stereo output within the unit.
What it is: Shows whether the device uses separate left and right audio channels.
When it matters: When true left-and-right channel playback matters without pairing a second speaker.
Importance: LOW
Good value: yes
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 has built-in stereo speakers, while the average portable speaker does not have built-in stereo speakers.
20 W more audio output power
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 has more audio output power than the average portable speaker (40 W vs 20.00 W).
Total RMS output: 40.00 W.
What it is: The maximum continuous power the speaker system can deliver.
When it matters: When you need enough output to fill a larger or noisier space.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >= 20 W
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 has more audio output power than the average portable speaker (40 W vs 20.00 W).40.00 W vs 20.00 W
Has a power bank function
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 has a power bank function, while the average portable speaker does not have a power bank function.
Can charge another device only while the speaker is connected to mains power.
What it is: Shows whether the speaker can send power to charge another device.
When it matters: When the speaker should also charge a phone or another device.
Importance: LOW
Good value: yes
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 has a power bank function, while the average portable speaker does not have a power bank function.
Supports multi-room audio
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 supports multi-room audio, while the average portable speaker does not support multi-room audio.
Supports synchronized multi-room playback.
What it is: Indicates whether the speaker can join a synchronized multi-room audio system.
When it matters: When synchronized playback across several rooms matters.
Importance: LOW
Good value: yes
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 supports multi-room audio, while the average portable speaker does not support multi-room audio.
Has Ethernet support
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 has Ethernet support, while the average portable speaker does not have Ethernet support.
Has Ethernet network support.
What it is: Shows whether a wired network connection is available through Ethernet.
When it matters: When a stable wired network connection matters.
Importance: LOW
Good value: yes
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 has Ethernet support, while the average portable speaker does not have Ethernet support.
37 mm larger main driver
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 has a larger main driver than the average portable speaker (87 mm vs 50.00 mm).
Has built-in stereo speakers
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 has built-in stereo speakers, while the average portable speaker does not have built-in stereo speakers.
20 W more audio output power
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 has more audio output power than the average portable speaker (40 W vs 20.00 W).
Supports Wi-Fi connectivity
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 supports Wi-Fi connectivity, while the average portable speaker does not support Wi-Fi connectivity.
Supports AirPlay
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 supports AirPlay, while the average portable speaker does not support AirPlay.
Has Ethernet support
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 has Ethernet support, while the average portable speaker does not have Ethernet support.
Has a power bank function
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 has a power bank function, while the average portable speaker does not have a power bank function.
Includes a power adapter
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 includes a power adapter, while the average portable speaker does not include a power adapter.
5 °C higher maximum operating temperature
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 has a higher maximum operating temperature than the average portable speaker (45 °C vs 40 °C).
Includes a remote control
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 includes a remote control, while the average portable speaker does not include a remote control.
Supports multi-room audio
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 supports multi-room audio, while the average portable speaker does not support multi-room audio.

Why is Bowers & Wilkins Z2 worse than the average portable speaker?

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1 fewer microphones
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 has fewer microphones than the average portable speaker (0 vs 1).
Built-in microphones: 0.
Does not include a passive radiator
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 does not include a passive radiator, while the average portable speaker includes a passive radiator.
Does not support Bluetooth audio
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 does not support Bluetooth audio, while the average portable speaker supports Bluetooth audio.
1 fewer USB ports
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 has fewer USB ports than the average portable speaker (0 vs 1).
Physical USB ports: 0.
Does not have a built-in rechargeable battery
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 does not have a built-in rechargeable battery, while the average portable speaker has a built-in rechargeable battery.
Does not have a battery level indicator
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 does not have a battery level indicator, while the average portable speaker has a battery level indicator.
Does not support stereo pairing
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 does not support stereo pairing, while the average portable speaker supports stereo pairing.
True left/right stereo pairing: not supported.
Does not support True Wireless Stereo
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 does not support True Wireless Stereo, while the average portable speaker supports True Wireless Stereo.
Does not support True Wireless Stereo speaker linking.
Does not provide voice prompts
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 does not provide voice prompts, while the average portable speaker provides voice prompts.
No spoken status prompts; feedback is absent, visual, or tone-based.
1,800 g heavier
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 is heavier than the average portable speaker (2,600 g vs 800 g).
13.9 cm wider
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 is wider than the average portable speaker (32 cm vs 18.1 cm).
5.6 cm taller
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 is taller than the average portable speaker (18 cm vs 12.4 cm).
1.7 cm deeper
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 is deeper than the average portable speaker (10 cm vs 8.3 cm).
6 older
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 was released earlier than the average portable speaker (2013 vs 2019).
Release year: 2013.
1 fewer microphones
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 has fewer microphones than the average portable speaker (0 vs 1).
Built-in microphones: 0.
What it is: The number of microphones built into the speaker.
When it matters: When voice pickup, calls, or beamforming performance matter.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >= 1
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 has fewer microphones than the average portable speaker (0 vs 1).0 vs 1
Does not support Bluetooth audio
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 does not support Bluetooth audio, while the average portable speaker supports Bluetooth audio.
What it is: Indicates whether the speaker can receive audio over Bluetooth.
When it matters: When wireless playback from phones, tablets, or computers matters.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: yes
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 does not support Bluetooth audio, while the average portable speaker supports Bluetooth audio.
Does not have a built-in rechargeable battery
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 does not have a built-in rechargeable battery, while the average portable speaker has a built-in rechargeable battery.
What it is: Indicates whether the speaker uses a battery that can be recharged.
When it matters: When portable use without disposable batteries or continuous mains power matters.
Importance: LOW
Good value: yes
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 does not have a built-in rechargeable battery, while the average portable speaker has a built-in rechargeable battery.
Does not include a passive radiator
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 does not include a passive radiator, while the average portable speaker includes a passive radiator.
What it is: Shows whether passive radiators are used to reinforce bass output.
When it matters: When enhanced bass response from a compact enclosure matters.
Importance: LOW
Good value: yes
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 does not include a passive radiator, while the average portable speaker includes a passive radiator.
Does not support stereo pairing
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 does not support stereo pairing, while the average portable speaker supports stereo pairing.
True left/right stereo pairing: not supported.
What it is: Indicates whether two compatible speakers can form a stereo pair.
When it matters: When two compatible speakers should form separate left and right channels.
Importance: LOW
Good value: yes
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 does not support stereo pairing, while the average portable speaker supports stereo pairing.
Does not support True Wireless Stereo
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 does not support True Wireless Stereo, while the average portable speaker supports True Wireless Stereo.
Does not support True Wireless Stereo speaker linking.
What it is: Shows whether the speaker supports true wireless speaker-to-speaker pairing.
When it matters: When two compatible speakers should pair wirelessly for stereo playback.
Importance: LOW
Good value: yes
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 does not support True Wireless Stereo, while the average portable speaker supports True Wireless Stereo.
Does not have a battery level indicator
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 does not have a battery level indicator, while the average portable speaker has a battery level indicator.
What it is: Shows whether the remaining battery level can be displayed clearly.
When it matters: When you want to know the remaining charge before or during use.
Importance: LOW
Good value: yes
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 does not have a battery level indicator, while the average portable speaker has a battery level indicator.
1 fewer USB ports
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 has fewer USB ports than the average portable speaker (0 vs 1).
Physical USB ports: 0.
What it is: The number of USB ports available on the speaker.
When it matters: When several wired accessories or storage devices need USB connections.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >= 1
Bowers & Wilkins Z2 has fewer USB ports than the average portable speaker (0 vs 1).0 vs 1

Expert reviews

whathifi.com

16/04/2013

Summary of the review

B&W Z2Go to product viewer dialogue for this item. review - What Hi-Fi?

The What Hi-Fi? review of the Bowers & Wilkins Z2 highlights the wireless speaker as a sleek, well-built unit that delivers surprisingly rich and clear audio for its size. Pros include an exceptionally easy AirPlay setup, a hidden Lightning connector, and a well-balanced, room-filling sound. However, the speaker is limited by its physical, non-upgradable Apple Lightning dock, a lack of in-app EQ, and the absence of Bluetooth, which leaves non-Apple users reliant on a 3.5mm wired input.

wired.com

05/09/2013

Summary of the review

Review: Bowers & Wilkins Z2 - WIRED

The 2013 WIRED review of the $400 Bowers & Wilkins Z2 speaker dock highlights its exceptional sound quality, stemming from the manufacturer's pedigree in British studio monitors, but issues a 6/10 rating due to significant cons. While the audio performance is praised, the review finds the user experience marred by Apple's AirPlay platform, which continues to suffer from stability issues during wireless playback.

cnet.com

05/11/2013

Summary of the review

Bowers & Wilkins Z2 review: A nice speaker that fails to wow - CNET

The Bowers & Wilkins Z2 is a visually appealing, compact wireless speaker dock offering punchy bass and big sound, yet it fails to justify its high price point due to lacking Bluetooth, no built-in battery, and average audio performance. While designed for Apple's Lightning connector, the speaker struggles with stereo separation and highlights imperfections in recordings.

pcmag.com

28/03/2013

Summary of the review

Bowers & Wilkins Z2Go to product viewer dialog for this item. Review - PCMag

The Bowers & Wilkins Z2 is a stylish, relatively affordable speaker offering excellent, rich audio quality and reliable Apple AirPlay streaming, featuring a convenient hidden Lightning connector. While praised for its performance, the system is hindered by an awkward remote control design and a technical flaw that cuts the beginning of tracks during wireless playback.

uk.pcmag.com

19/02/2014

Summary of the review

Bowers & Wilkins Z2 Review - PCMag UK

The Bowers & Wilkins Z2 is described as a well-designed speaker with strong Apple AirPlay integration, offering a warm, rich, and transparent audio experience. The review highlights its sleek aesthetic, easy app setup, and a convenient hinged Lightning dock as key pros. However, the device is held back by an awkwardly shaped remote and a noticeable technical flaw where it chops the first few seconds of tracks in wireless mode.

t3.com

30/04/2013

Summary of the review

B&W Z2 review - T3

The T3 review of the B&W Z2 praises the wireless speaker for its stylish, robust design and high-quality sound for the price point, highlighting the Apple Lightning dock as a key feature. While offering good audio, the unit lacks Bluetooth connectivity—making it unsuitable for non-Apple users—and faces strong competition from alternatives like the Cambridge Audio Minx Air 100.

trustedreviews.com

19/03/2013

Summary of the review

Bowers & Wilkins Z2 Review - Trusted Reviews

The Trusted Reviews assessment of the Bowers & Wilkins Z2 highlights it as a compact speaker system that achieves an impressively rich, warm sound with decent bass for small rooms, while using a specialized dimpled rear bass port to minimize distortion. However, the review notes significant limitations, citing restricted bass depth and limited treble detail resulting from small, full-range drivers rather than dedicated components.

techradar.com

20/03/2013

Summary of the review

Hands on: Bowers and Wilkins Z2 review - TechRadar If you need further specifications, setup instructions, or a comparison against other speakers from...

The TechRadar review describes the Bowers & Wilkins Z2 as a compact, stylish wireless speaker featuring an Apple Lightning connector, AirPlay support, and enhanced bass via its signature Flowport design. However, the unit is criticized for limited compatibility, as it excludes Bluetooth and non-Lightning devices, forcing users to rely on a 3.5mm input or Ethernet.

soundandvision.com

09/05/2013

Summary of the review

Review: B&W Z2 AirPlay dockGo to product viewer dialogue for this item. - Sound & Vision

The Sound & Vision review of the $399 Bowers & Wilkins Z2 praises the speaker system for its compact, stylish design, which seamlessly blends into rooms as a practical bedside unit featuring Apple’s lossless AirPlay technology and a Lightning connector. While lauded for its performance and aesthetic integration, the device has limitations, specifically the inability to dock iPads and a somewhat retro design choice in including a 3.5-mm analog input.

audioholics.com

09/05/2013

Summary of the review

B&W Z2 AirPlay Dock and Wireless Speaker Review - Audioholics

The Audioholics review of the $399 Bowers & Wilkins Z2 highlights a sleek, well-built wireless speaker featuring dual 3.5-inch drivers, 40-watt amplification, and effective "Flowport" technology for authoritative bass. While praising the user-friendly setup and exceptional clarity in mids and highs, the assessment notes cons including a slightly thin sound profile on complex tracks and the lack of dedicated tweeters.

theabsolutesound.com

25/09/2013

Summary of the review

B&W Z2 Wireless Music SystemGo to product viewer dialogue for this item. - The Absolute Sound

In his review for The Absolute Sound, Neil Gader describes the $399 Bowers & Wilkins Z2 as a highly capable compact audio system featuring exceptional authority, openness, and rich midrange substance. The unit is praised for its integrated Apple Lightning dock and stable AirPlay connectivity. However, the Z2 is noted for having a slightly dark tonal cast and a forward midrange, alongside highly restrictive connectivity that limits functionality for non-Apple users and older devices.

techcrunch.com

21/04/2013

Summary of the review

Review: The Bowers & Wilkins Z2 Airplay Speaker Is Bowm-Chicka-Wow-Wow

Jordan Crook’s TechCrunch review highlights the Bowers & Wilkins Z2 as a compact, 7-inch AirPlay speaker featuring a flexible Lightning dock for Apple devices and powerful, room-filling sound. While the Z2 excels with an easy app-based setup and crisp audio, it is limited by a lack of 30-pin and iPad compatibility, uses an outdated remote control, and features a less iconic design than previous B&W models. T

stern.de

19/05/2013

Summary of the review

Bowers & Wilkins Z2 Review: Affordable Top-Tier Sound

The Stern review highlights the Bowers & Wilkins Z2 as a compact wireless speaker offering premium design and impressive, detailed audio with strong bass. Key advantages include intuitive setup via app, AirPlay, and Apple Lightning integration, while limitations include a lack of Bluetooth, limited physical compatibility to newer Apple devices, and slight sound compression at maximum volumes.

macwelt.de

30/05/2013

Summary of the review

Bowers & Wilkins Z2 Review

The Macwelt review of the Bowers & Wilkins Z2 describes the compact, matte-finished audio system as a premium, Apple-centric device featuring high-end sound quality, Apple AirPlay, and a Lightning dock. While praising its performance, the review notes significant pros in flexible wired and wireless connectivity, alongside cons related to a flawed, non-functional web-based setup process that required a dedicated app. The device is also limited by its lack of Bluetooth and strict focus on the Apple ecosystem.

connect-living.de

28/10/2013

Summary of the review

Review of the Bowers & Wilkins Z2 Wireless Speaker

The Connect-Living review rates the Bowers & Wilkins Z2 wireless speaker as "good," highlighting its excellent build quality, easy app-based setup, and versatile connectivity including AirPlay, a Lightning dock, and an Ethernet port. While praised for its compact design and audio quality, the review identifies limited power handling and volume-dependent sound performance as primary cons.

hifitest.de

14/06/2013

Summary of the review

B&W Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Z2 - Docking Stations Review

The HiFiTest.de review highlights the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Z2 as an elegant, premium compact speaker featuring exceptional build quality, a robust curved design, and responsive touch controls. While praised for its design, the review notes significant limitations, specifically that the recessed Lightning connector restricts physical docking to only the iPhone 5 or small iPods, preventing even an iPad mini from fitting.

avguide.ch

12/06/2013

Summary of the review

Bowers & Wilkins Z2 Review - AirPlay Beauty

The AVGuide.ch review characterizes the Bowers & Wilkins Z2 as a compact, high-quality AirPlay speaker featuring a user-friendly setup and an integrated Lightning connector. It delivers a rich, balanced, and precise sound, particularly excelling with a controlled bass. However, the unit is limited by a narrow stereo image, high-volume distortion, and a lack of support for non-Apple devices.

connect.de

14/05/2014

Summary of the review

Bowers & Wilkins Z2 review

The Bowers & Wilkins Z2, reviewed by Connect, is a premium wireless speaker featuring a Lightning dock and robust app-based setup, delivering rich, balanced sound at moderate volumes through dual 88mm drivers. While praised for high-quality craftsmanship and clear audio performance at lower levels, the Z2 has limited power handling, with high volumes inducing a 6dB bass compression that results in sharp, harsh treble and reduced overall sound quality.

imaedia.de

15/01/2014

Summary of the review

Bowers & Wilkins Z2 Review – AirPlay Speaker

The Bowers & Wilkins Z2 is a premium Apple-centric AirPlay speaker featuring a sleek, space-saving design with an integrated Lightning connector, responsive touch controls, and high-quality audio with a rear Flowport. While praised for its intuitive app setup, the Z2 is constrained by the lack of Bluetooth connectivity, an awkward remote, and a high price point that faces stiff competition from versatile multi-room alternatives.

iphone-ticker.de

15/05/2013

Summary of the review

Tested: Bowers & Wilkins Z2 with AirPlay and Lightning Dock

The review of the Bowers & Wilkins Z2 on iPhone-Ticker.de highlights the speaker as an elegant device offering outstanding, room-filling sound quality and a secure, spring-loaded Lightning dock, according to the article. While the setup via app is straightforward, the unit is limited by a high €399 price, a lack of battery power, and a poorly designed remote control.

01net.com

03/05/2013

Summary of the review

Z2 Review: A great AirPlay speaker for listening to Slayer

The 01net review highlights the Bowers & Wilkins Z2 as a compact, 40-watt speaker offering high-quality sound for demanding genres, a sleek design, and convenient AirPlay functionality with an integrated Lightning dock. While technically proficient, the device faces criticism for its limited physical interface, notably lacking dedicated source selection buttons for switching between audio inputs.

lesnumeriques.com

20/06/2013

Summary of the review

Bowers & Wilkins Z2 Review - Les Numériques

The Bowers & Wilkins Z2 wireless dock speaker is praised by Les Numériques for its elegant, compact design with a matte rubber finish, premium metal grille, and versatile connectivity, including Lightning, AirPlay, and Ethernet. However, the review highlights that its reliance on Apple technology restricts non-Apple users, and it underperforms in audio quality compared to competing models in its price bracket.

computerhoy.20minutos.es

02/09/2013

Summary of the review

Bowers & Wilkins Z2 Speaker Review - Computer Hoy

The Bowers & Wilkins Z2 is described as a high-end, Apple-focused speaker dock offering exceptionally clean, detailed audio and reliable network configuration, according to Computer Hoy. While versatile wireless streaming is available via AirPlay, the physical Lightning connector is constrained by a rigid design that limits compatibility to smaller devices like the iPhone 5, excluding iPads.

revista-gadget.es

01/03/2013

Summary of the review

Bowers & Wilkins Z2 Speakers - Gadget Magazine

The Revista Gadget video review highlights the Bowers & Wilkins Z2 as a compact, elegantly designed wireless audio system featuring seamless Apple AirPlay integration and a Lightning connector for iPhone 5 and newer devices. While praised for its aesthetics, the Z2 faces limitations including an awkward, egg-shaped remote, lack of iPad docking compatibility, and no native, high-quality streaming support for non-Apple devices.

telegraaf.nl

10/05/2013

Summary of the review

Bowers & Wilkins Z2 Review

The De Telegraaf review highlights the Bowers & Wilkins Z2 as an elegant, minimalist wireless speaker dock, praising its subtle design, capacitive touch controls, and impressive, room-filling sound. While offering clear audio, the review notes cons including a strong, exclusive focus on Apple devices, reliance on AirPlay over Bluetooth, and a lack of additional features like a display screen.

nwtv.nl

07/06/2013

Summary of the review

Review: Bowers & Wilkins Z2 NWTV

The NWTV review of the Bowers & Wilkins Z2 praises the audio system for its sleek, high-quality visual design and beautiful sound reproduction, combining an integrated Apple Lightning dock with wireless AirPlay connectivity. While highlighted for its impressive aesthetic and audio fidelity, the review also notes significant cons, specifically regarding connectivity flaws and minor design or operational shortcomings.

Bowers & Wilkins Z2 Review | 130 Data compared

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