Bowers & Wilkins DB2D

Martins Hi-Fi is the second oldest Bowers & Wilkins dealer in the world — and the DB2D represents one of the most accomplished subwoofers Bowers & Wilkins have ever produced. Built around technology developed for the flagship 800 Series Diamond loudspeakers, the DB2D sets a new standard for what a premium subwoofer can achieve in both dedicated home cinema and serious two-channel listening.

Aerofoil Cone Technology

The DB2D is built around two opposing 10-inch Aerofoil cone drivers — the identical units found in the 800 D3 flagship speakers. The Aerofoil cone is a profiled composite construction, varying in thickness across its surface to eliminate the resonant breakup modes that afflict conventional cone designs. The result is a driver that moves with extraordinary precision — delivering bass that is not merely powerful, but composed and articulate at every dynamic level.

The dual opposed configuration is no accident. By mounting the drivers in opposition, the DB2D cancels the cabinet vibrations that a single driver would otherwise generate — reducing distortion and allowing the enclosure itself to contribute nothing unwanted to the sound. The cabinet is engineered to be inert, and the drivers are free to do their work without interference.

1000 Watts and Intelligent DSP

A high-efficiency 1000-watt amplifier drives the DB2D — an output that ensures the drivers are never starved of current, even at the lowest frequencies and highest dynamic peaks. But raw power alone does not define the DB2D's character. Bowers & Wilkins pair that amplifier with an intelligent DSP system, designed to optimise bass performance in the specific acoustic conditions of your room.

Room correction is handled through a dedicated mobile app — compatible with both iOS and Android — which incorporates a room EQ system requiring no separate microphone kit. Setup is therefore straightforward, and the results are calibrated to the space rather than applied as a generic correction.

Who Is It For?

The DB2D is for listeners who refuse to compromise. It has the power and scale to anchor a serious home cinema system, yet the precision and timing to integrate seamlessly with a high-quality stereo setup — adding genuine low-frequency weight without disturbing the integrity of the original recording. If you are building a system around 800 Series speakers or any other high-resolution loudspeakers, the DB2D is the subwoofer that belongs with them. Those considering the smaller Bowers & Wilkins DB4S or the larger DB1D will find the DB2D occupies a commanding position in the range.

Buying from Martins Hi-Fi

Martins Hi-Fi has been in Norwich since 1968. Elizabeth Gould runs the business today, and we stock only brands we have heard properly and stand behind. As the second oldest Bowers & Wilkins dealer in the world, we have a depth of experience with the brand that very few retailers can match. Dave, Chris, or Tim will be happy to demonstrate the DB2D in our Norwich showroom — and to advise on integration with your existing system, whether stereo or home cinema.

Contact us at info@martinshifi.co.uk, call 01603 627010, or WhatsApp on 07554 687137. You can read more about how we work on our Why Martins Hi-Fi page. We are at 85–91 Ber Street, Norwich, NR1 3EY.