Review: Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin (Smart Edition) – A Modern Audio Icon

In a world overflowing with smart technology, the humble speaker has undergone a remarkable transformation. No longer just a conduit for sound, today’s smart speakers are integral hubs for entertainment, connectivity, and home control, evolving from utilitarian gadgets into sophisticated lifestyle statements. Among these, the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Smart Edition stands out, promising not just exceptional audio but an aesthetic presence that demands attention. But does this iconic design, infused with smart capabilities, truly deliver an experience worthy of its premium tag?

This comprehensive review will delve deep into the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Smart Edition, exploring its breathtaking design, dissecting its unparalleled sound performance, evaluating its smart features and connectivity options, and ultimately, helping you determine if this high-fidelity marvel is the perfect centerpiece for your smart home audio ecosystem.

Understanding the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Smart Edition

What is a Smart Speaker and How Does the Zeppelin Fit In?

A smart speaker is more than just a device that plays music; it integrates voice assistant technology, allowing users to control playback, manage smart home devices, get information, and more, all through verbal commands. The Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Smart Edition takes this concept to a new level, merging the convenience of a smart speaker with the uncompromising audio fidelity that Bowers & Wilkins is renowned for. It’s designed for discerning listeners who seek both intelligence and acoustical excellence in one elegant package.

Evolution of the Zeppelin Lineage

The Zeppelin’s journey began in 2007 as a groundbreaking iPod dock, instantly recognizable for its distinctive elliptical shape. Each subsequent iteration has evolved, adapting to the changing landscape of digital audio by shedding the physical dock and embracing wireless streaming. The latest Smart Edition, often referred to as the 2021 model, is a complete redesign that brings enhanced connectivity, improved internal components, and integrated smart assistant capabilities, firmly planting it in the modern era of connected audio.

Bowers & Wilkins: A Legacy of Audio Excellence

For decades, Bowers & Wilkins has been synonymous with high-end audio, pushing the boundaries of sound engineering and design. From professional studio monitors to revered home theater systems, their commitment to pure, unadulterated sound has earned them a formidable reputation among audiophiles. The Zeppelin Smart Edition carries this legacy forward, aiming to deliver a powerful and precise sound signature in a single, integrated unit.

Design and Aesthetics: A Statement Piece

Iconic Design and Build Quality

The Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Smart Edition is, without a doubt, a visual masterpiece. Its iconic elliptical silhouette is instantly recognizable, reimagined with cleaner lines and a premium finish that exudes sophistication. Measuring approximately 210mm in height, 650mm in width, and 194mm in depth, and weighing a substantial 6.5kg, it’s a large and weighty speaker designed not to blend in, but to stand out as a sculptural element in any room. The blend of high-quality fabrics and polished metal accents speaks to its premium build, ensuring it feels as luxurious as it looks. An integrated adjustable LED light underneath creates a subtle glow, giving the impression that the Zeppelin is gracefully floating, further enhancing its modern and unique aesthetic.

Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Smart Edition iconic design overview

Placement and Presence

Unlike many utilitarian smart speakers that are designed to disappear into the background, the Zeppelin Smart Edition is meant to be showcased. Its size and striking design make it an ideal centerpiece for a living room, a statement piece on a credenza, or a focal point in a home office. While it demands a stable surface due to its weight, its presence elevates the decor, turning a functional audio device into a work of art that seamlessly integrates with modern interior design.

Unparalleled Sound Performance

Audio Architecture and Components

Underneath its striking exterior, the Zeppelin Smart Edition houses a meticulously engineered acoustic system designed for breathtaking sound. It features a sophisticated 2.1 channel setup: two 1-inch double-dome tweeters deliver crisp, detailed highs; two 3.5-inch FST (Fixed Suspension Transducer) midrange drivers provide clear and articulate vocals; and a single, beefy 6-inch woven composite subwoofer anchors the sound with deep, resonant bass. Powering this array is a robust 240-watt amplification system, with 40 watts dedicated to each tweeter and midrange, and a formidable 80 watts reserved for the subwoofer. Advanced Digital Signal Processing (DSP) and Dynamic EQ work in harmony to optimize performance, ensuring the drivers operate within their optimal range for a consistently rich and balanced sound.

Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin internal audio components diagram

Sound Signature and Clarity

The sound quality of the Zeppelin Smart Edition is, by most accounts, exceptional. It delivers a powerful audio performance characterized by a surprisingly wide and well-defined soundstage for a single-unit speaker. The bass is rich, deep, and well-controlled without being overwhelming, providing a solid foundation for all genres of music. Treble is detailed and sparkling, revealing subtle nuances, while the mid-range is where the Zeppelin truly shines, particularly with vocals, which are rendered with remarkable clarity and presence.

The speaker supports high-resolution audio up to 24-bit/96kHz, allowing you to experience your favorite tracks with incredible fidelity from services like Tidal and Qobuz. The Bowers & Wilkins Music app also offers adjustable bass and treble EQ settings, enabling users to fine-tune the sound to their personal preference or room acoustics. Whether you’re streaming a delicate classical piece or a high-energy electronic track, the Zeppelin handles it with insight and dynamic prowess, making it one of the most aurally impressive smart speakers available.

Smart Features and Connectivity

Alexa Integration: Voice Control at its Core

The “Smart Edition” moniker primarily refers to its integrated Amazon Alexa voice assistant. This allows users to control music playback, ask questions, set reminders, and manage other Alexa-compatible smart home devices simply using voice commands. For those already invested in the Alexa ecosystem, the Zeppelin offers seamless integration and adds a premium audio dimension to their smart home.

However, it’s important to note a few specific points regarding Alexa. The Zeppelin exclusively supports Amazon Alexa, meaning there’s no option for Google Assistant or Apple’s Siri. Additionally, while Alexa handles many commands smoothly, some reviewers have noted an occasional oddity where Alexa’s voice control over the volume makes too large a jump, potentially requiring manual adjustment via the app. The microphone is also solely for voice assistant interaction and cannot be used for phone calls, a feature found in some other smart speakers.

Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin with Alexa voice control in action

Seamless Streaming and Connectivity Options

The Zeppelin is built for the modern streaming era, offering a comprehensive suite of wireless connectivity options. It supports Apple AirPlay 2, allowing effortless streaming from Apple devices and integration into Apple HomeKit multi-room setups. Bluetooth aptX Adaptive ensures high-quality wireless streaming from a wide range of devices, while Spotify Connect provides direct access to your Spotify playlists.

The dedicated Bowers & Wilkins Music app serves as a central hub for controlling the speaker and accessing a variety of streaming services directly. Through the app, you can link accounts from popular platforms such as Tidal, Qobuz, Deezer (for high-resolution streams), TuneIn, Last.fm, SoundCloud, NTS for global radio, and DASH for commercial-free stations. While the selection is good, some users might find it slightly less comprehensive than the widest-ranging ecosystems, though B&W is expected to add UPnP support for servers soon. For multi-room audio enthusiasts, the Zeppelin is designed to integrate into a cohesive whole-house system with other Bowers & Wilkins Formation wireless speakers, pending an imminent software update.

A notable omission for some users, particularly those with legacy audio equipment, is the complete lack of traditional wired audio inputs (like RCA, optical, or a 3.5mm auxiliary jack). The only physical connection beyond the power cord is a USB-C port, which can be used for a wired network connection if Wi-Fi isn’t preferred.

User Experience: Setup and Everyday Use

Initial Setup Process

Setting up the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Smart Edition is generally a straightforward process. Once plugged in, the speaker enters pairing mode, and the Bowers & Wilkins Music app (available for iOS and Android) guides you through the rest. Most users report a “breeze” of a setup, with the app quickly discovering and connecting to the speaker. However, a few accounts mention encountering some initial setup frustrations, which might require a bit of patience or troubleshooting. The app is essential for the initial configuration, including connecting to your Wi-Fi network and enabling Alexa.

Bowers & Wilkins Music App interface on a smartphone controlling Zeppelin

Navigating the B&W Music App

Once set up, the Bowers & Wilkins Music app becomes your primary interface for controlling the Zeppelin beyond voice commands. The app is generally praised for being attractive, intuitive, and user-friendly. It allows you to browse and play music from your linked streaming services, adjust volume, and fine-tune the speaker’s sound profile using its built-in bass and treble EQ controls. It also serves as the hub for managing multi-room setups if you have other compatible B&W Formation products. For daily operation, the app complements Alexa, offering tactile control when voice isn’t convenient or precise enough.

Value Proposition: Is the Zeppelin Smart Edition Worth It?

Pricing and Competition

Priced around $799 to $899 USD, the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Smart Edition sits firmly at the premium end of the smart speaker market. This places it in direct competition with other high-fidelity wireless speakers that also offer smart features, such as top-tier models from Sonos, Apple’s HomePod Max (though with different assistant ecosystems), and other audiophile-grade all-in-one systems. While its price is substantial, it reflects its luxurious design, advanced audio components, and the Bowers & Wilkins brand prestige.

Pros and Cons Summary

Pros:

• Stunning, iconic design: A true statement piece for any modern home.
• Exceptional sound quality: Powerful, detailed, and balanced audio with hi-res support.
• Built-in Amazon Alexa: Convenient voice control for music and smart home.
• Comprehensive wireless connectivity: AirPlay 2, Bluetooth aptX Adaptive, Spotify Connect.
• Bowers & Wilkins Music app: Intuitive control and EQ adjustments.
• Multi-room capability: Integrates with B&W Formation ecosystem.

Cons:

• Premium price: A significant investment.
• Alexa-only voice assistant: No support for Google Assistant or Siri.
• No wired audio inputs: Limits connectivity with traditional audio sources.
• Some reports of initial setup quirks: Might not be completely seamless for everyone.
• Alexa volume control can be jumpy: Minor annoyance for precise adjustments.

Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Smart Edition in a luxury setting

Maximizing Your Zeppelin Experience

Optimal Placement for Acoustics

To truly unlock the Zeppelin’s acoustic potential, consider its placement carefully. As a single-unit stereo speaker, giving it some space from walls can help in creating a wider soundstage and preventing bass build-up. Placing it on a sturdy surface at ear level when seated can also enhance the listening experience. Experiment with different positions in your room to find the sweet spot where the sound is most balanced and immersive.

Software Updates and Maintenance

Like all smart devices, the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin benefits from regular software updates. These updates often bring performance enhancements, bug fixes, and sometimes new features or streaming service integrations. Ensure your speaker’s firmware is kept current through the B&W Music app to maintain optimal performance and security. For physical maintenance, a gentle wipe with a soft, dry cloth will keep its premium finish looking pristine.

Conclusion

The Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Smart Edition is a testament to what happens when iconic design meets cutting-edge audio technology and smart functionality. It delivers a truly stellar listening experience wrapped in an aesthetically breathtaking package that serves as a focal point in any room. While its premium price tag and reliance solely on Amazon Alexa might be considerations for some, for those who prioritize exceptional sound, exquisite design, and seamless Alexa integration, the Zeppelin offers a compelling proposition that few can match.

If you’re seeking a high-fidelity smart speaker that transcends mere utility to become a statement of style and sound, the Zeppelin Smart Edition should be at the top of your list. Does its blend of luxury and performance align with your vision for the ultimate smart home audio experience?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Smart Edition?

Does the B&W Zeppelin have Google Assistant or Siri?

No, the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Smart Edition exclusively features built-in Amazon Alexa. It does not support Google Assistant or Apple’s Siri, so users must be comfortable with the Alexa ecosystem.

Can I use the B&W Zeppelin in a multi-room setup?

Yes, the Zeppelin Smart Edition is designed to be compatible with multi-room audio systems through Apple AirPlay 2 and is also intended to integrate seamlessly with other Bowers & Wilkins Formation wireless speakers via a future software update to the B&W Music app.

What streaming services are supported?

Through the Bowers & Wilkins Music app, the Zeppelin supports direct integration with services like Tidal, Qobuz, Deezer (for hi-res audio), Spotify Connect, TuneIn, Last.fm, SoundCloud, NTS, and DASH. It also allows streaming from any app via AirPlay 2 or Bluetooth.

Are there any wired inputs on the Zeppelin?

The Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Smart Edition does not include traditional wired audio inputs such as RCA, optical, or a 3.5mm auxiliary jack. Its only physical data port is a USB-C connection, which can be used for a wired network connection.