The flagship centre channel of the 800 Series Diamond D5, for the 801 D5 and 802 D5.
The HTM81 D5 is the largest centre in the range, with mid and bass units sized like those of the 802 D5.
The Bowers & Wilkins HTM81 D5 comes as a single unit and combines two large Aerofoil units, a decoupled Continuum for the mid band and the Diamond dome in its Solid Body Tweeter-on-Top. It matches the 801 D5 and 802 D5. There are three finishes: Stealth Black, Warm White and Dark Walnut, with Leather by Connolly trim. The FS-HTM D5 stand is sold separately.
Key features
- Three-way vented design: 25 mm Diamond tweeter, 150 mm Continuum FST midrange, two 200 mm Aerofoil bass drivers
- Frequency response 28 Hz-28 kHz (±3 dB), 20 Hz-35 kHz at -6 dB; sensitivity 90 dB
- Nominal impedance 8 ohms (3.0-ohm minimum); recommended amplifier 50-500 W
- Width 846 mm; height 334 mm with tweeter; depth 363 mm with grille and terminals
- Weight 33.4 kg; bi-wire terminals
How it is built
The high-frequency unit sits in its own housing on top of the box, as across the series, and moves its first break-up mode to 70 kHz. The mid driver works with Biomimetic Suspension and an Anti-Resonance plug, flanked by the bass cones: matching the 802 D5 helps tonal continuity between channels. Matrix bracing, Flowport, crossover and internal wiring with higher-grade cables and connectors have been updated.
Below the screen
Width and weight matter: before buying, check the free space available, including the tweeter that rises at the top, and the load rating of the supporting surface. Leave room behind for cables. As an alternative to furniture, a dedicated stand is offered in Black or Warm Titanium.
Align the face of the centre with that of the main speakers and angle it towards the listening seat, so that voices stay tied to the image. Where space is tighter, or the fronts are 803 D5 or 804 D5, the HTM82 D5 is the model to choose. The grille is black on the dark finishes and grey on the light one.
