Bowers & Wilkins 800 Series Diamond D5: Fifth Generation of the Reference Loudspeaker
Bowers & Wilkins has unveiled the fifth generation of its flagship 800 Series Diamond, now carrying the D5 designation. Announced at High End Vienna 2026, the new range spans seven models — three floorstanders, two stand-mounts, and two centre-channel variants — and introduces a comprehensive set of mechanical and acoustic upgrades while keeping the same fundamental design philosophy intact.
What’s New in the D5
The headline addition is Space Frame Bracing: an integrated network of aluminium extrusions fitted inside the existing Matrix cabinet bracing system. Where the Matrix structure traditionally connects opposing wall panels with bitumen-damped fibre, the D5 adds aluminium profiles specifically around the driver mounting zones, stiffening the area most susceptible to structural vibration from the bass and midrange drivers.
The top panel has been redesigned in aluminium with a greater number of fixing points and reinforced ribs — improvements that B&W says increase mechanical stability for both the tweeter module and the midrange enclosure.
Aluminium Midrange Enclosure for the 804 D5
The 804 D5 receives a notable upgrade: a dedicated aluminium enclosure for its FST (Fixed Suspension Transducer) midrange driver, which retains the Continuum cone material introduced in the D4 generation. The aluminium housing provides a stiffer, better-damped mounting compared to the composite enclosure used in previous generations. Across the full range, the diamond dome tweeters have been fitted with updated protective grilles, and drive units for the mid-bass and bass drivers have been revised. Crossovers use new circuit layouts mounted on aluminium plates secured with M8 and M4 bolts — a more rigid installation than the previous generation.
Updated Bases and Finishes
All floorstanding models receive redesigned aluminium bases with additional internal damping and improved coupling between the base geometry and the cabinet shape. Spikes and rollers are now fully concealed beneath the base plate. The 800 D5 range is offered in four finishes: Hidden Black, Warm White, Satin Walnut Light, and Satin Walnut Dark.
Full Range and European Pricing
| Model | Type | Price (pair, EU) |
|---|---|---|
| 801 D5 | Floorstander, 3-way | €50,000 |
| 802 D5 | Floorstander, 3-way | €37,000 |
| 803 D5 | Floorstander, 3-way | €30,000 |
| 804 D5 | Floorstander, 3-way | €18,000 |
| 805 D5 | Stand-mount, 2-way | €12,000 |
| HTM81 D5 | Centre channel | €12,000 each |
| HTM82 D5 | Centre channel | €10,000 each |
Matching stands for the 805 D5 (FS-805 D5) are priced at €1,800 per pair. The 800 Series Diamond D5 goes on sale on 9 September 2026.
