“`html Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Pro Edition “`

Overview

Expert’s Rating

Our Verdict

Although the Zeppelin Pro Edition is on the expensive side, it stands out as one of the top AirPlay speakers for Apple devices. It delivers excellent sound with flexible connectivity options, including both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Its only minor drawback is the absence of wired inputs for older audio equipment.

Price When Reviewed

$799

Best Prices Today: Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Pro Edition

$799

Bowers & Wilkins, renowned for their premium Bluetooth headphones and earbuds, is also popular among Apple users for their Zeppelin speakers, first launched in 2007. The earlier models had a 30-pin connector for iPods, but later versions went fully wireless, incorporating Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and AirPlay to maximize compatibility with Apple products.

Check out how the Zeppelin Pro stacks up against other speakers we’ve reviewed: Best AirPlay speakers for iPhone.

The current Zeppelin model, last updated in 2021, remains available but will soon be replaced by the new Zeppelin Pro Edition, launched at the end of 2024. Both models look nearly identical and share the same price point of $799/£699, so be sure to select the correct model when purchasing.

The Zeppelin Pro Edition retains the classic design, measuring 210 x 650 x 194mm and weighing 6.6kg, similar to its predecessors. It comes in a dark Space Grey, resembling the latest MacBook Air models, and Solar Gold with a bronzed finish. Its size and price point indicate it’s intended as the main speaker in a home audio setup, and it excels in delivering high-quality sound.

Unlike many single-piece speaker systems like Apple’s HomePod, the Zeppelin Pro Edition offers a full stereo experience, with separate left and right audio channels and a dedicated subwoofer for lower frequencies. The 150mm subwoofer is centrally located, flanked by 90mm mid-range woofers, and two 25mm tweeters for high frequencies. Bowers & Wilkins claims the woofers and tweeters have been redesigned for this edition to enhance sound quality further.

The Zeppelin Pro Edition, like its predecessors, supports Bluetooth with AAC for Apple devices and aptX Adaptive for Android. However, Amazon Alexa has been removed as it was not widely used. Apple users benefit from Wi-Fi support with AirPlay 2, enabling wireless audio streaming from any Apple device app over a home network.

Additionally, the Zeppelin Pro supports Spotify Connect, and the B&W Music app allows connectivity with other streaming services like Tidal and Amazon Music. The app offers bass and treble controls, though it lacks the ability to create and save custom EQ presets. The LED light color at the speaker’s base can also be changed, adding a touch of personalization.

AirPlay offers more bandwidth for high-quality audio files, and the Zeppelin Pro Edition shines with the 2022 high-res remix of The Beatles’ Eleanor Rigby on Apple Music. It captures the sharp string stabs with dramatic precision, inspired by the film Psycho’s soundtrack, while also highlighting the deep, rich cello tones that enhance the song’s melancholy. The speaker also clearly brings out the harmonies in Lennon and McCartney’s vocals.

In contrast, Sturgill Simpson’s Sing Along blends rock and dance music seamlessly, handled effortlessly by the Zeppelin Pro. The deep guitar riffs resonate with weight, and the powerful 240-watt amp fills the room at around 70% volume. The electronic keyboard sounds are light and engaging, getting you dancing. The only downside is the lack of wired inputs, limiting connectivity with older audio equipment like CD players or Hi-Fi systems.

Should You Buy Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Pro Edition?

The Zeppelin Pro Edition is a large and costly AirPlay speaker, making it excessive if you only need a small speaker for a shelf. However, it proves its worth as a robust, high-quality stereo speaker that can be the centerpiece of your home music system. Its AirPlay 2 support makes it a perfect match for Apple devices and other AirPlay speakers like Apple’s HomePod.