The Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin 2021, often referred to as the Zeppelin 2021, marked a significant refresh for B&W’s iconic wireless speaker, re-establishing its presence in the premium home audio market. It isn’t just a speaker. it’s a statement piece, blending high-fidelity audio with a distinctive design that pays homage to its predecessors while embracing modern connectivity. If you’re looking for a wireless speaker that delivers superb sound quality, boasts a striking aesthetic, and offers seamless smart features, the 2021 Zeppelin is a strong contender. It delivers a rich, detailed, and expansive soundstage that belies its all-in-one form factor, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize both sonic performance and design elegance in their living spaces. This iteration reintroduced features like built-in Alexa, hi-res audio support, and a more versatile streaming platform, making it a compelling option for discerning audiophiles and design enthusiasts alike.
Here’s a comparison of the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin 2021 alongside other notable audio devices in its class:
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Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin 2021
- Key Features: Iconic airship design, built-in Alexa, hi-res audio support, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, aptX Adaptive Bluetooth, 2x 1-inch double-dome tweeters, 2x 3.5-inch FST midrange drivers, 1x 6-inch subwoofer, 240W total output.
- Average Price: Around $799.
- Pros: Exceptional sound quality with strong bass and clear highs, striking design, versatile connectivity options, smart assistant integration, premium build.
- Cons: High price point, no multi-room audio with other brands primarily B&W Formation ecosystem, physical controls are minimal, large footprint might not suit all spaces.
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- Key Features: Spatial Audio support, Trueplay tuning, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, line-in, voice control Sonos Voice Control, Alexa, six drivers including two up-firing for Dolby Atmos.
- Average Price: Around $449.
- Pros: Excellent spatial audio experience, robust multi-room capabilities within the Sonos ecosystem, versatile connectivity, compact design for its sound output.
- Cons: Spatial audio content is still growing, no Google Assistant support, less striking design compared to Zeppelin.
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- Key Features: Compact size, extreme power for its size 600W peak, ADH amplification, SAM processing, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Bluetooth, optical input.
- Average Price: Around $1,600.
- Pros: Astonishingly powerful and clear sound from a small footprint, unique and futuristic design, deep impactful bass.
- Cons: Very expensive, polarizing design, limited physical controls, single-speaker setup for most users.
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- Key Features: High-resolution audio streaming up to 32-bit/384kHz, HDMI ARC, AirPlay 2, Chromecast built-in, Spotify Connect, Tidal, Bluetooth, multi-room, sleek aluminum chassis.
- Average Price: Around $1,799.
- Pros: Superb audiophile-grade sound, extensive connectivity, premium build quality, intuitive control app, multi-room integration.
- Cons: Very high price, large and heavy, not as visually distinctive as the Zeppelin for some.
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- Key Features: Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos, S7 chip, room sensing technology, Thread and Matter support for smart home, Siri integration, Apple Podcast optimization.
- Average Price: Around $299.
- Pros: Seamless integration with Apple ecosystem, excellent sound for its size and price, strong smart home hub capabilities, good voice assistant performance.
- Cons: Limited to Apple Podcast and AirPlay for best experience, fewer connectivity options no Bluetooth input for example, less powerful than Zeppelin.
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Formation Wedge Bowers & Wilkins
- Key Features: B&W Formation wireless tech, hi-res streaming, unique elliptical design, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, 1-inch double dome tweeters, 3.5-inch FST midrange drivers, 6-inch subwoofer, 240W total.
- Average Price: Around $999.
- Pros: Similar sound signature to Zeppelin, excellent multi-room with Formation products, striking design, detailed sound.
- Cons: More expensive than Zeppelin, design might be less universally appealing than Zeppelin’s iconic shape, specific to B&W Formation ecosystem.
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- Key Features: Multi-room audio, AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Bluetooth 5.0, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, RCA input, sub out, five dedicated presets.
- Average Price: Around $400.
- Pros: Excellent value for money, robust multi-room functionality, good sound quality, versatile connectivity, classic aesthetic.
- Cons: Not as powerful or detailed as the Zeppelin or Naim, build quality is good but not premium like B&W.
The Return of an Icon: What the 2021 Zeppelin Brings to the Table
The Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin 2021 marked a triumphant return for an audio icon, transforming from an iPod dock into a fully-fledged, modern wireless smart speaker. This wasn’t just a minor refresh.
It was a re-imagining designed to meet the demands of contemporary audio streaming and smart home integration, while staying true to its design heritage.
It aims to be the center of your living room’s audio experience, providing both high-fidelity sound and a striking visual presence.
Design Evolution: Iconic Form Meets Modern Function
The Zeppelin’s distinctive blimp-like silhouette has always been its signature, and the 2021 model retains this instantly recognizable shape.
However, this iteration subtle but significant changes that enhance both its aesthetics and acoustic performance.
- Maintaining the Signature Silhouette: The basic form factor remains, making it unmistakably a Zeppelin. This iconic shape isn’t just for show. it’s acoustically optimized to minimize internal reflections and standing waves, helping to deliver a clearer, more expansive sound.
- Premium Materials and Finish: B&W continues its tradition of using high-quality materials. The 2021 Zeppelin features a sleek, dark grey or light grey finish that integrates well into various home decors. The acoustic fabric covering the drivers is meticulously applied, giving it a premium feel. The integrated stand is discreet yet robust, ensuring stability.
- Fabric Choice: The speaker grille is wrapped in a high-quality Kvadrat fabric, known for its durability and acoustic transparency. This detail alone speaks volumes about the attention to detail.
- Hidden Controls: The physical controls are subtly placed on the rear, maintaining the clean lines of the front profile. This minimalist approach allows the design to speak for itself.
- No Longer an iPod Dock: Crucially, the prominent iPod dock that defined earlier Zeppelins is gone. This change streamlines the design, making it more versatile and relevant for a world dominated by wireless streaming. Its absence underscores its shift towards being a purely connected device, rather than a physical media player extension.
Audio Performance: A Soundstage to Behold
Bowers & Wilkins built its reputation on exceptional audio quality, and the 2021 Zeppelin lives up to that legacy.
It’s engineered to deliver a room-filling, detailed, and dynamic sound that rivals many dedicated stereo systems.
- Driver Configuration and Power: The Zeppelin 2021 features a sophisticated driver array, meticulously positioned for optimal sound dispersion.
- Tweeters: Two 1-inch double-dome tweeters, derived from B&W’s acclaimed 600 Series Anniversary Edition speakers, handle the high frequencies, ensuring crisp and detailed treble. Their decoupled design minimizes vibration interference.
- Midrange Drivers: Two 3.5-inch FST Fixed Suspension Transducer midrange drivers are responsible for vocal clarity and instrument definition. FST technology, also found in B&W’s high-end speakers, helps to deliver a more precise and dynamic midrange.
- Subwoofer: A single, centrally mounted 6-inch subwoofer provides powerful and articulate bass. Its large excursion capabilities allow for deep, resonant lows without distortion, even at higher volumes.
- Total Output: The system boasts a formidable 240W of total amplification, ensuring plenty of headroom for dynamic peaks and room-filling sound.
- Hi-Res Audio Support: The Zeppelin supports high-resolution audio, allowing listeners to enjoy their podcast at its best possible quality. This means it can handle files up to 24-bit/96kHz, offering a more nuanced and detailed listening experience than standard CD quality.
- Digital Signal Processing DSP: Advanced DSP is employed to optimize the sound for the Zeppelin’s unique form factor and driver placement. This ensures a balanced frequency response and a wide, immersive soundstage.
- Dynamic and Detailed Sound Profile: Expect a sound that is both powerful and refined. The bass is deep and impactful but never muddy, while the midrange is clear and present, making vocals sound natural. High frequencies are extended and airy, without being harsh. The overall presentation is dynamic, capable of handling a wide range of podcastal genres with aplomb. It’s particularly adept at conveying the depth and spaciousness of recordings.
Connectivity and Streaming: The Modern Hub
The 2021 Zeppelin fully embraces the wireless era, offering a comprehensive suite of connectivity options that make it incredibly versatile for streaming podcast from various sources.
- AirPlay 2: For Apple users, AirPlay 2 provides seamless streaming from iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple TV. It also enables multi-room audio with other AirPlay 2-compatible devices. This is a significant advantage for those heavily invested in the Apple ecosystem.
- Spotify Connect: This feature allows Spotify Premium users to control podcast playback directly from the Spotify app, using the Zeppelin as the output device. It’s a convenient and widely used streaming protocol.
- Bluetooth with aptX Adaptive: While Wi-Fi is the preferred method for optimal sound quality, Bluetooth is included for universal compatibility. The inclusion of aptX Adaptive ensures high-quality Bluetooth streaming for compatible devices, minimizing latency and maximizing audio fidelity.
- Bowers & Wilkins Podcast App: The dedicated B&W Podcast app is the central control hub for the Zeppelin.
- Streaming Services Integration: The app integrates directly with popular streaming services such as Tidal, Deezer, Qobuz, and TuneIn radio, allowing users to browse and play podcast without leaving the app. This creates a unified and convenient listening experience.
- Device Control and Updates: The app is also used for initial setup, firmware updates, and basic sound adjustments. It provides a user-friendly interface for managing your Zeppelin.
Smart Features: Alexa Built-In
Integrating a smart assistant elevates the Zeppelin from just a speaker to a truly smart home device.
The 2021 model includes Amazon Alexa built-in, offering convenient voice control for podcast playback and more.
- Hands-Free Control: With Alexa, you can use voice commands to play podcast, skip tracks, adjust volume, ask questions, set timers, and control other smart home devices. This hands-free operation adds a layer of convenience to the listening experience.
- Integrated Microphones: The Zeppelin incorporates far-field microphones designed to pick up voice commands even from across the room or when podcast is playing.
- Privacy Controls: For users concerned about privacy, the Zeppelin includes a physical button to disable the microphone, ensuring that Alexa is only listening when you want it to. This is a crucial feature for many privacy-conscious consumers.
- Limitations Compared to Dedicated Smart Speakers: While Alexa integration is a significant plus, it’s worth noting that the Zeppelin’s Alexa functionality might not be as comprehensive as a dedicated Amazon Echo device. It’s primarily focused on podcast control and basic smart home commands, rather than advanced inter-device communication or calling features.
Placement and Setup: Getting the Best Out of Your Zeppelin
While the Zeppelin is an all-in-one unit, proper placement and initial setup can significantly impact its sound performance and user experience.
It’s not a set-it-and-forget-it device if you want to optimize its sonic potential.
- Optimal Room Placement: Due to its powerful bass response and wide sound dispersion, the Zeppelin benefits from being placed on a solid surface, away from corners or walls that might cause excessive bass resonance.
- Height and Surface: Ideally, place it at ear level when seated, or on a sturdy piece of furniture that won’t vibrate. A bookshelf or a dedicated audio stand are good choices.
- Clear Space: Ensure there’s clear space around the speaker to allow the sound to propagate freely, maximizing the stereo image and soundstage.
- Initial Setup Process: The setup is largely guided by the Bowers & Wilkins Podcast app.
- Power On and Connect: Plug in the Zeppelin and wait for it to boot up.
- App Discovery: Open the B&W Podcast app, which should discover the Zeppelin on your network.
- Wi-Fi Configuration: Follow the on-screen prompts to connect the Zeppelin to your home Wi-Fi network. This is crucial for all its streaming and smart features.
- Alexa Integration Optional: If you wish to use Alexa, the app will guide you through linking your Amazon account.
- Firmware Updates: It’s highly recommended to check for and install any available firmware updates during the initial setup process to ensure optimal performance and access to the latest features.
- Power Requirements: The Zeppelin is a mains-powered device and requires a constant power supply. It does not have an internal battery. This reinforces its role as a stationary home audio system.
The Zeppelin Ecosystem: A Standalone Star or Multi-Room Player?
The 2021 Zeppelin is primarily designed as a standalone, premium wireless speaker.
However, for those already invested in Bowers & Wilkins’ wireless multi-room ecosystem, it offers some intriguing possibilities.
- Designed as a Solo Performer: The Zeppelin excels as a single-unit audio solution for a living room, bedroom, or office. Its soundstage is broad enough to fill most average-sized rooms with high-quality sound, making it a compelling alternative to a traditional stereo setup where space or aesthetics are a concern.
- Integration with Formation Limited: While not explicitly part of the Formation multi-room system at launch in the same seamless way as Formation products, the Zeppelin can function in a multi-room setup via AirPlay 2 with other AirPlay 2-compatible devices. For B&W’s proprietary Formation ecosystem, the integration might be more limited to future updates or specific use cases.
- Formation Compatibility: Some users might confuse the Zeppelin with Formation products like the Formation Wedge or Formation Bar. While they share B&W’s sonic signature, the Zeppelin typically operates more as a standalone streaming device, whereas Formation products are built specifically for a proprietary mesh network for multi-room synchronization. It’s important to clarify this for potential buyers.
- No Stereo Pairing Typically: Unlike some other wireless speakers e.g., Sonos, the Zeppelin is not designed to be stereo-paired with another Zeppelin for a true left/right stereo image. Its design and driver array are optimized for a single-unit wide soundstage. This isn’t a drawback, but a design choice emphasizing its all-in-one nature.
Value Proposition: Is the Zeppelin Worth the Investment?
The Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin 2021 sits squarely in the premium segment of the wireless speaker market.
Its price tag requires consideration, but its features and performance often justify the cost for the right user.
- Premium Price, Premium Performance: At its price point, the Zeppelin isn’t for the budget-conscious. However, it delivers a level of audio fidelity, design sophistication, and smart features that genuinely set it apart from cheaper alternatives. You’re paying for Bowers & Wilkins’ acoustic engineering expertise and a distinctive piece of industrial design.
- Target Audience: It’s ideal for:
- Design-conscious individuals: Those who value aesthetics as much as audio quality and want a statement piece for their home.
- Audiophiles seeking simplicity: Listeners who appreciate high-quality sound but prefer an all-in-one solution over complex component systems.
- Apple ecosystem users: The strong AirPlay 2 integration makes it a natural fit.
- Anyone wanting a substantial upgrade: If you’re moving from a basic Bluetooth speaker and want a significant leap in sound quality, the Zeppelin delivers.
- Longevity and Brand Reputation: Bowers & Wilkins has a long-standing reputation for building durable, high-performance audio equipment. While specific product longevity varies, B&W products are generally built to last, and the prospect of OTA updates means the Zeppelin should remain relevant for years to come.
- Comparison to Alternatives: When compared to rivals like the Naim Mu-so 2nd Generation or Devialet Phantom Reactor 600, the Zeppelin offers competitive sound quality at a potentially more accessible price point for the features it provides, while still maintaining a unique design identity. The Sonos Era 300 offers spatial audio, but the Zeppelin still wins on pure audiophile sound quality and design.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin 2021?
The Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin 2021 is a premium wireless smart speaker, an updated version of B&W’s iconic Zeppelin series, designed to deliver high-fidelity audio and smart home integration with a distinctive aesthetic.
When was the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin 2021 released?
The Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin 2021 was officially released in October 2021.
How much does the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin 2021 cost?
The average price for the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin 2021 is around $799, though prices may vary slightly by retailer. Hp Stream 14 2021 Review
What connectivity options does the Zeppelin 2021 offer?
The Zeppelin 2021 offers Wi-Fi for AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, and the B&W Podcast app’s integrated services, Bluetooth with aptX Adaptive, and a physical Ethernet port.
Does the Zeppelin 2021 have an auxiliary input?
No, the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin 2021 does not include a traditional 3.5mm auxiliary input.
It focuses solely on wireless and network-based audio sources.
Can I connect a turntable to the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin 2021?
No, the Zeppelin 2021 lacks a dedicated analog input RCA or 3.5mm for direct connection to a turntable.
You would need an external pre-amp with a digital output like optical or USB and a compatible adapter, or a network audio player that can stream from your turntable setup.
Does the Zeppelin 2021 support multi-room audio?
Yes, the Zeppelin 2021 supports multi-room audio primarily through AirPlay 2, allowing it to play synchronized podcast with other AirPlay 2-compatible devices.
Is Amazon Alexa built into the Zeppelin 2021?
Yes, Amazon Alexa is built into the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin 2021, enabling hands-free voice control.
Can I disable the microphone on the Zeppelin 2021 for privacy?
Yes, there is a physical button on the Zeppelin 2021 to disable the microphone for privacy, ensuring Alexa is not listening.
What streaming services are integrated with the B&W Podcast app for the Zeppelin?
The B&W Podcast app integrates popular streaming services like Spotify Connect, Tidal, Deezer, Qobuz, and TuneIn radio. Sony Bravia Xr 75X95J Review
What is the power output of the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin 2021?
The Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin 2021 features a total of 240W of amplification.
What type of drivers are in the Zeppelin 2021?
The Zeppelin 2021 features two 1-inch double-dome tweeters, two 3.5-inch FST midrange drivers, and one 6-inch subwoofer.
Does the Zeppelin 2021 support high-resolution audio?
Yes, the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin 2021 supports high-resolution audio streaming up to 24-bit/96kHz.
Is the Zeppelin 2021 battery-powered or mains-powered?
The Zeppelin 2021 is a mains-powered device and requires a constant electrical connection. it does not have an internal battery.
Can I stereo pair two Zeppelin 2021 speakers?
No, the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin 2021 is designed as an all-in-one speaker and does not support stereo pairing with another Zeppelin unit.
How do I set up the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin 2021?
Setup for the Zeppelin 2021 is primarily done through the Bowers & Wilkins Podcast app, which guides you through connecting to Wi-Fi and integrating streaming services.
What are the color options for the Zeppelin 2021?
The Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin 2021 is typically available in dark grey and light grey finishes.
Is the Zeppelin 2021 compatible with Google Assistant?
No, the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin 2021 does not have Google Assistant built-in. It exclusively features Amazon Alexa.
Does the Zeppelin 2021 have an HDMI ARC input?
No, the Zeppelin 2021 does not have an HDMI ARC input, meaning it’s not designed to connect directly to a TV for audio in the same way a soundbar would.
How does the sound quality of the Zeppelin 2021 compare to previous models?
The Zeppelin 2021 features upgraded drivers and advanced digital signal processing compared to its predecessors, offering a more refined, powerful, and detailed sound profile. Anker Nebula Solar Portable Review
Is the Zeppelin 2021 suitable for large rooms?
Yes, with its 240W of power and sophisticated driver array, the Zeppelin 2021 is capable of filling large rooms with high-quality, dynamic sound.
Can I control the Zeppelin 2021 without the B&W Podcast app?
Yes, you can control basic playback play/pause, volume via physical buttons on the unit, and use AirPlay 2 or Spotify Connect from their respective apps, but full setup and advanced features require the B&W Podcast app.
Does the Zeppelin 2021 receive firmware updates?
Yes, the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin 2021 is designed to receive over-the-air OTA firmware updates, which can add new features and improve performance over time.
What is aptX Adaptive Bluetooth?
AptX Adaptive is a high-quality Bluetooth codec that offers improved audio fidelity, lower latency, and better resilience to interference compared to standard Bluetooth codecs, optimizing the wireless streaming experience.
Can the Zeppelin 2021 be wall-mounted?
No, the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin 2021 is designed to be a freestanding unit and does not offer wall-mounting options. It has an integrated base.
Is the Zeppelin 2021 part of the Bowers & Wilkins Formation ecosystem?
While it shares some underlying technology and can integrate via AirPlay 2, the Zeppelin 2021 typically operates as a standalone wireless speaker rather than a fully integrated Formation product, which uses B&W’s proprietary mesh network for multi-room.
Does the Zeppelin 2021 support Apple Podcast directly?
While the B&W Podcast app doesn’t have native Apple Podcast integration, you can stream Apple Podcast to the Zeppelin via AirPlay 2 from an Apple device.
What is the primary advantage of the Zeppelin 2021’s design?
Beyond its iconic aesthetics, the Zeppelin’s unique shape is acoustically optimized to minimize internal reflections and standing waves, contributing to its clear and expansive soundstage.
How does the Zeppelin 2021 compare to a Sonos Era 300?
The Zeppelin 2021 generally offers a more audiophile-grade, traditional stereo soundstage and a more distinctive design, while the Sonos Era 300 focuses on spatial audio, deep Sonos ecosystem integration, and multi-room flexibility.
What is the warranty for the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin 2021?
Typically, Bowers & Wilkins products come with a 2-year limited warranty, but it’s always best to check with the specific retailer or B&W’s official website for the most accurate and up-to-date warranty information. Wd Blue Sn570 Review
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