The Bowers & Wilkins Panorama 3 is a compact, wall-mountable soundbar system with built-in subwoofers and Atmos-capable processing. It focuses on a low-profile silhouette and seamless TV integration via HDMI eARC, while delivering spatial cues with a decoupled tweeter/midrange array and two up-firing drivers. It supports multiroom streaming, AirPlay 2, and Alexa, but its value is tempered by discontinuation concerns and limited long-term update life. More details await if you proceed.
Design and Build: Aesthetics and Practicality
The Panorama 3 presents a low-profile silhouette that prioritizes discreet integration alongside strong build quality.
The design emphasizes practicality through compact dimensions and integrated subwoofers, reducing footprint without sacrificing bass.
Materials are described as premium, with attention to tactile consistency and seamless transitions between components.
Build aesthetics align with modern interiors, delivering a restrained visual presence that avoids conspicuous branding.
Connectivity hardware and mounting provisions reinforce the design practicality, enabling flexible installation.
Attention to fit and finish underpins perceived reliability, while the aesthetic restraint supports timeless appeal.
Sound Performance: Atmos, Clarity, and Imaging
Atmos capabilities are realized through two dedicated up-firing drivers and a decoupled tweeter/midrange array, delivering spatial cues that align with typical ceiling reflections and scene depth. The Atmos performance is delineated by precise elevation cues and coherent layering, with forward-firing chassis preserving center imaging even in complex mixes.
Imaging accuracy remains solid across dynamic ranges, though scale and height cues can feel restrained compared with premium Atmos systems. Treble remains lucid, midrange tonal balance is measured, and bass integration is stable through the built-in subs. Overall, Atmos performance supports credible ambient effects while preserving dialog clarity and structural soundstage integrity.
Connectivity and Smart Features: Streaming and Control
How do streaming capabilities and control options cohere with the Panorama 3’s overall usability? The soundbar supports HDMI eARC for reliable TV integration and broad codec compatibility, reducing setup friction.
Multiroom streaming via the B&W app and supported services (TIDAL, Qobuz, Spotify Connect) enable seamless playback across zones.
Built‑in Alexa and AirPlay 2 provide voice and wireless control, though ecosystem reliance remains evident.
Remote ergonomics are practical, with a compact, tactile remote and straightforward button layout; however, its proximity to other devices can complicate line‑of‑sight operation.
Soundbar ventilation remains unobtrusive, preserving aesthetics while preventing thermal constraints.
Setup and Integration: TV, Apps, and Installation
Setting up the Panorama 3 centers on streamlined TV integration and straightforward app-based control. The process prioritizes HDMI eARC for high-quality audio return and easy TV pairing, reducing setup friction. App-driven configuration supports 24-bit streaming and multiroom expectations, with the B&W app guiding room calibration and source selection. The installation practicality emphasizes a low-profile chassis, built-in subwoofers, and included wall-mount brackets, aiding discrete placement. Time-to-first-audio is minimized through automatic device detection and consistent control schemas across Alexa, AirPlay 2, and Spotify Connect. Overall, setup integration remains efficient, with rapid operational readiness and predictable performance aligned to contemporary living room layouts.
Value and Longevity: Pros, Cons, and Discontinued Status
Value and longevity considerations place the Panorama 3 as a mixed bag: it delivers strong multiroom sound, built-in subwoofers, and Atmos-capable processing, yet its discontinued status and relatively high price temper long-term value.
From a technical lens, the bar’s 3.1.2 configuration and 13 drivers support precise imaging, while HDMI eARC and voice control enable cohesive integration.
Pros include compact enclosure and seamless streaming; cons center on diminishing support life and limited resale windows.
Customer reviews reflect mixed satisfaction, citing consistent performance but frustration over discontinued status.
In valuation terms, long-term ownership depends on ecosystem commitment, update continuity, and perceived upgrade risk.
Conclusion
In sum, the Panorama 3 delivers refined, space-efficient cinema and music performance through coherent 3.1.2 channel design, integrated subs, and Elevation drivers that convincingly imply verticality. Its strengths—impressive imaging, robust Atmos playback, and broad connectivity—are tempered by its discontinued status, premium price, and a non-modular footprint that limits future upgrades. For buyers seeking a single, stylish soundbar with authentic B&W voicing and strong streaming options, it remains a compelling, albeit legacy, solution.
