Active 1
Active loudspeaker system
Product Summary
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Behind the John Bowers Active 1 is a simple but demanding concept: to achieve large 
loudspeakers performance from comparatively small enclosures. And these compact 
cabinets should be basically convenient in style, to integrate happily into home 
environments where space is at a premium.
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During the two-year research and development programme, our augmented design 
concept. This unique experienced group of engineers had at their disposal the most 
sophisticated tools and instrumentation, including in-house computer laser interferometry.
Technical highlights
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The Active 1 has three drive units: two 150mm bass drivers, high frequency transducer 
employing diminishing sound-source polyamide dome.
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Both bass/midrange drivers incorporate an advanced motor system with edge-wound 
copper ribbon on Kapton formers - giving superior transient and power-handling 
capabilities.
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The totally rigid enclosure is built in a laminate of particle board and bitumous pads and is 
critically cross-braced. The electronics are housed in an isolated compartment at the back.
B&W Loudspeakers Ltd reserves the right to amend details of the specifications without notice in line with technical developments. E & OE. All trademarks
acknowledged.
www.bwspeakers.com
Drive Units Three, vertically in-line with electronic inter-unit time-
delay correction.
Bass/bass midrange transducers
Diaphragm: 150mm dia bextrene cone heavily 
damped with pva compounds. 
Voice coil: edgewound ribbon on kapton former 
giving safe operating temperatures up to 250˚C.
High frequency transducer
Diaphragm:26mm dia. special polymide, laser 
optimised to give diminishing radiating area with 
increasing frequency.
Frequency Response
Power consumption
Dimensions
Net Weight 
Finish
Free-field at 2m at centre of listening 
window. Bass control ‘+’: ±2dB 45Hz 
to 18Hz 
Off mode: 4W 
On mode: zero drive 120W
full drive 400W 
Height: 626mm. 860mm with stand  
Depth: 355mm. 400mm with grille 
Width: 256mm 
30kg 
Black Ash, Natural Oak, Walnut 
Limited edition: Special lacquered finish