Questions & Answers for Bowers & Wilkins MM-1 Speakers

Yes they will. See specs.
The MM-1 are basically a USB soundcard and speakers built in one.

• Answered by Tom W
• Mar 29, 2010
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The MM-1's have two inputs, USB from a computer and a 3.5mm analog aux input. I have not found an optical to USB converter, so I think that leaves you to buy a standard Digital to Analog Converter (DAC). Depending on the DAC you will need to find a cable with a 3.5mm plug on one end to plug into the aux input on the MM-1. Most DAC's I've seen have a pair of RCA plugs for the analog output. You can find RCA to 3.5mm (mini plug) cables easily enough, and they are available in the Apple Store. DAC's price range is fairly cheap (around $20) to very expensive ($1000's). If you are investing in the MM-1's I would get a fairly decent DAC, but your budget will be your guide and you can always upgrade that later if you are not entirely satisfied with the sound.

• Answered by Mark N from Nottingham
• Mar 26, 2012
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Do the focals have USB input (and thus an internal DAC)? I don't see anything listed about that from what I've read, so if not I would make the move in a heartbeat.

B&W made a VERY smart move by taking control of the DAC in these speakers. Why rely on a $5 DAC in the computer itself to feed quality signal to a $500 pair of well designed speakers?!? Doesn't make sense to me.

My vote is for the B&W switch.

• Answered by Tim S from Skaneateles Falls
• Apr 28, 2010
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The Focal XS 2.1 speakers offer considerably more bass response for a hundred dollars more. They also have a built-in dock for quick charging or listening to your iPod library. They are, however, not as sonically nor acoustically clear as the MM-1s. Though they cannot achieve uncomfortable levels, the Focals are much, much more powerful due much to their massive subwoofer. If your main intentions are acoustic or jazz soundscapes in a tiny room, the MM-1s are desirable. If you plan on watching movies as well as music and want some major punch to your computer entertainment center, the Focals are better because their satellite speakers are still pretty slim on the desk.

• Answered by Jeffrey S from Indianapolis
• Mar 24, 2010
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Yes they will work with an iPad, either going through the USB or AUX port.

If you want to connect your iPad via USB, you'll have to get the iPad Camera Connecter Kit, which includes a USB adapter.

That adapter will allow you to run a USB cable from your iPad, to the MM-1's.

I did this and noticed a huge difference in sound quality, because USB allows you to take advantage of B&W's DAC chip.

• Answered by Sam I from Farmers Branch
• Aug 25, 2010
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Yes the speakers are magnetically shielded and can be placed close to your Mac.

• Answered by Frazer H from Worthing
• Mar 4, 2010
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I have my iPhone dock next to the speaker and their is no interference.

• Answered by Michael S
• Mar 8, 2010
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From specs:
"Power input voltage: 100V - 240V ac 50/60Hz on external power supply, 16V DC on product"
You would just need a cheap plug adaptor (not the expensive converter).

• Answered by Michael S from Holden
• May 14, 2010
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I have them hooked up to a non powered usb and they work.

• Answered by Daniel K from Daly City
• Apr 28, 2010
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