Is it just me or does this model change over frequency drive you crazy as well?

Here we have the 603 given a great review to only have it months later replaced by, what, an improved model? Maybe?

The American Automotive industry model of style over substance with new models every year is so "engineering challenged" it is hardy worth mentioning. Can we not make an auto design that just needs slight tweeking rather that a full liposuction/facelift and little engineering improvement.

I know tooling wears out and maybe the thought is: "we have to make new tools anyway, lets just remake the thing in the process". To me ususally "new and improved" means we found a way to make it cheaper and charge the same or more. After all, we all want improvement except we have to wait for JA to measure it and for the Phile staff to listen to it and remark about the "improvement", if they hear any.

You are probably right. I am also dismayed to see the small model 303 gone. If many other companies can make money and sell $300/pair bookshelf speakers surely B&W can as well.

Things are a changin!

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If many other companies can make money and sell $300/pair bookshelf speakers surely B&W can as well.

Maybe B&W don't consider $300/pair speakers "audiophile grade" and not worthy of their name.

There are a number of speakers in their line that I would not consider "audiophile grade". If JM Labs can do it, certainly the folks at B&W can...but that only applies if they want to. They have every right to make any marketing decision they want.

Just think if some college student bought a pair of 303's and upon graduation, got a nice job, bought a real nice MC SACD player and used the 303's in the rear and bought some 600's or 700's with a center channel because he was a loyal B&W customer and liked their "house sound", that would be some great marketing...or not...now.

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There are a number of speakers in their line that I would not consider "audiophile grade".

Correct you are, Jim. I have heard the 600 series and they were nice, but...This is the first I've heard of the 683 & 684. Are they any better than the rest of the 600 line?
As for "audiophile grade"...it could be considered all a matter of reference (to what a person is use to listening to).

I just saw the model change on the B&W site this week. No dealer has them here that I am aware of...yet. I will do some more checking today.

Jim,

What B&W site did you go to? I went www.bwspeaker.com but there was no listing for the 683 or 684.

I found it, Jim, at www.bowers-wilkins.com.

Thanks anyway.