Firstly, the Bowers & Wilkins system exhibits zero distortion, even at the upper limits of its volume range. Where other systems might falter and introduce unwanted noise at high volumes, the B&W in the 2020 M8 Competition remains crystal clear. This pristine clarity extends across the entire frequency spectrum, ensuring a clean and pure audio reproduction regardless of volume.
Secondly, the sheer volume capability of the B&W system is astounding. It reaches levels that are genuinely “too loud” for comfortable listening, indicating a substantial headroom and power reserve. This impressive volume isn’t just about loudness; it signifies the system’s ability to fill the car with rich, immersive sound without strain.
The mids and highs are where the Bowers & Wilkins truly shines. The definition and crispness are superb, rendering intricate details in music with remarkable fidelity. The clarity is so exceptional that it reveals nuances in tracks you might have never noticed before. This high-definition audio experience has even inspired me to consider adding a JL Audio 12” subwoofer in the trunk. Remarkably, the B&W system is so well-balanced and capable that it can seamlessly integrate with aftermarket bass augmentation without being overshadowed, promising a perfect sonic equilibrium.
The only minor caveat, as noted, is that the bass, while incredibly deep and punchy at lower volumes, can seem to dissipate slightly when pushing the system to 75-100% of its maximum output. However, this isn’t due to any weakness in the bass speaker itself. Instead, it’s a characteristic of high-powered bass frequencies demanding more airspace to fully develop at extreme volumes within the confines of the car’s speaker enclosure. To be clear, there is no speaker distortion; the system is simply revealing the acoustic limitations of the stock enclosure at very high volumes. My solution is indeed to add a JL Audio 12W6 subwoofer in a high-output JL enclosure, powered by a JL XD600-1 amplifier, installed in the trunk. This upgrade, while representing an additional $2,000 investment, promises an end result so overwhelmingly impressive that it’s an irresistible prospect for a true audiophile seeking the ultimate audio experience in their 2020 M8 Competition.
