Have you ever considered that a piece of audio history might exist in your home? Well Bowers & Wilkins is making that possible in the 801 Abbey Road Limited Edition— which is a beautiful tribute to its 45-year partnership with the famous Abbey Road Studios. This is not a speaker, it’s a breathing piece of sonic history.
The origin story: 1980 pitch at Abbey Road
In 1980, John Bowers, brought the original 801 loudspeaker, into Abbey Road Studios. The engineers were so impressed with the original 801’s accuracy that it was the first studio in the world to make the 801 their full-time loudspeaker of choice. This breakthrough moment kicked off a 45-year relationship that has now spanned 6 generations of 800 Series loudspeakers.
Inside the 801 D4 Signature platform
Released in June 2023, the 801 D4 Signature, is B&W’s flagship floorstander. It takes the iconic Nautilus inside but presents in a more conventional design— which integrates easily into home-related settings while still producing reference-level performance.
Why Abbey Road adds magic
Abbey Road Studios is famous, and it is legendary. It is home to The Beatles, Pink Floyd, Adele, and so many productions, and its control rooms have relied on B&W’s 800 Series for many decades. This history gives soul to the new edition.
Historical Influence Materials
The Abbey Road Edition is covered in retro walnut veneer reminiscent of instruments and studio decorations, coupled with red Connolly leather trim that harkens back to the famous chairs in Studio Two.
Unique design features of the Abbey Road Edition
- The back plate that identifies each of the 140 limited pairs,
- A handcrafted book detailing the last 45 years, packed with never-before-seen photos,
- The works use the same vaned drivers as the standard 801 D4 Signature works: diamond dome tweeter, Continuum cone mid-range, dual Aerofoil bass.
A mere 140 pairs – a collector’s dream
The Abbey Road Editions are an extremely limited time audio collectors item, as there are only 140 piano models. The exclusivity of your Abbey Road Editions is defined by the numbered plate – which makes them unique to you!
What is included in the package?
The package includes:
- The speakers,
- A uniquely designed book covering the history of the brands,
- Very high-end accessories paying homage to both luxury audio and studio heritage.
Price: $70,000 per pair
The price is set at $70, 000, which is $10,000 over the price of the standard 801 D4 Signature, due to the nature of the special finish, the limited quantity of speakers, and the added collectables.
Technical tweaks and acoustic enhancements
Sources at Bowers & Wilkins say the Abbey Road edition is virtually identical to the 801 D4 Signature, with a few tweaks—a more powerful bass magnet, new bass port design for quieter airflow, improved top plate to dampen resonance, tweeter grille optimized for more open sound.
Who is this speaker for?
These audio products are more than products, they’re heirlooms:
- Audiophiles craving studio level clarity
- Collectors who prefer rarity and visual intrigue
- Music pros who want Abbey Road level monitoring in their lounge
- Design lovers who appreciate finely refined finishes and British craftsmanship
Comparing with the standard 801 D4 Signature
While the innards of these two models are the same, the Abbey Road Edition provides an emotional and aesthetic value in its particular materials, limitedness, and storytelling experience that just pulls you in!
How to order and availability
If you’re considering ordering a pair now, the 801 D4 Signature Abbey Road Edition is now available, either from Bowers & Wilkins directly or an authorized dealer. However, because there are only 140 pairs available, if you’re seriously considering a pair, I suspect there will be a waitlist.
Listening experience
Now, imagine your favorite performance, such as Abbey Road recorded Beatles or Pink Floyd, being performed to you with fastidious resolution! As mentioned, the 801’s ability to articulate hall acoustics, small harmonics, and positioning of instruments was like watching a high def concert through perfectly transparent glass!
Why this release matters
It is not just about making history—it is a bold statement of what purpose-built audio devices can do. Like a vintage wine in a custom bottle, the Abbey Road Edition combines pedigree sound with cultural heritage contained in a luxury designed British package.
Final thoughts
The 801 Abbey Road Limited Edition is more than a speaker–it is a time capsule connecting the listener, the recording, technology, and art. With record inspired design, few in production, and archival design sensibility, it is aimed at someone who views listening as participatory, and heritage, as part of their home.
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