Audio T Verdict
The Bowers & Wilkins FS-M-1 stands provide the compact M-1 speakers with an elegant, purpose-built floorstanding support.
They raise the speakers to a more suitable listening height while routing the speaker cable through the supporting columns, creating a far cleaner installation than a visible cable hanging from a generic stand.
The speakers connect directly to the stand’s integrated mounting system, but compatibility is limited to the current M-1 design introduced in 2012. Earlier M-1 speakers use a different mounting arrangement.
Bowers & Wilkins FS-M-1 Speaker Stands
The FS-M-1 is the dedicated floor stand for the current-generation Bowers & Wilkins M-1 satellite speaker.
Its slim supporting column, compact floor base and concealed cable route complement the M-1’s discreet design while positioning the speaker more effectively for stereo and home cinema listening.
The stands are supplied as a pair and are available in Matte Black and Matte White to match the current M-1 speaker finishes.
Speakers Are Not Included
The FS-M-1 package contains a pair of floor stands and the associated assembly hardware.
Bowers & Wilkins M-1 satellite speakers are sold separately.
Designed Specifically for the M-1
The FS-M-1 is not a generic platform-style speaker stand.
Its upper mounting assembly connects directly to the M-1’s integrated support system, replacing the speaker’s supplied table-stand base.
This creates a secure and visually coordinated installation without requiring a large top plate, adhesive pads or a separate universal speaker bracket.
Current-Generation Compatibility
The FS-M-1 is designed for the revised Bowers & Wilkins M-1 speaker introduced in 2012 and still sold in the current Mini Theatre range.
It is not compatible with the original, earlier-generation M-1 speaker because the cabinet and mounting arrangements are different.
Owners of older M-1 speakers should confirm their exact model before ordering.
Check Your M-1 Before Ordering
The compatible current M-1 is available in Matte Black or Matte White and uses the swivelling support fitted to its table stand and wall bracket.
Compatibility should not be assumed solely because the speaker carries the M-1 name. Contact Audio T if you are unsure which version you own.
Improved Listening Height
The FS-M-1 raises the compact speaker away from low television furniture, shelves and other nearby surfaces.
Placing a speaker closer to seated ear height can improve treble clarity, dialogue focus and stereo imaging.
Audio T lists the stand height as 956mm, creating a practical position for the M-1 in many conventional seating arrangements.
The final acoustic result will still depend on the listener’s seat height, room layout and distance from the speakers.
Cleaner Stereo Placement
Using floor stands gives considerably more freedom when positioning a pair of M-1 speakers for stereo listening.
The speakers can be moved away from furniture and placed symmetrically around the main listening position without requiring suitable shelves on both sides of the room.
A useful starting point is to position the left and right speakers so that they and the listener form a broad triangle, then make small adjustments to spacing and angle.
Home Cinema Front Speakers
The stands can support M-1 speakers used for the front left and right channels of a compact home cinema system.
Position the speakers on either side of the screen at a similar height and distance from the principal seating position.
The centre-channel M-1 can remain on its table stand, attach to the wall or be reconfigured horizontally above or below the television.
Surround-Speaker Use
The FS-M-1 can also support M-1 speakers used as side or rear surround channels where wall mounting is undesirable.
Floor stands make it easier to adjust speaker position without drilling into walls and can be particularly useful in rented homes or rooms where the seating arrangement may change.
The stands should be placed outside busy walkways and positioned so that the speaker cables do not create a trip hazard.
Concealed Speaker-Cable Routing
Speaker cable can be routed through the stand’s central column.
The cable enters at the base, travels through the stand and connects to the integrated M-1 mounting assembly at the top.
This keeps most of the cable hidden and avoids a visible wire hanging down behind the speaker.
The cable should be installed before the speaker is attached and before the stand is placed in its final position.
Route the Cable During Assembly
Feed the required speaker cable through the stand before fitting the M-1 to the upper mounting assembly.
Leave enough cable at the base to reach the amplifier without tension, but avoid excessive loose cable that could create a trip hazard.
Integrated M-1 Connection
The M-1 uses an integrated connection system across its table stand, wall bracket and dedicated floor stand.
The speaker cable connects within the mounting assembly rather than to conventional visible terminals on the rear of the speaker cabinet.
Once assembled correctly, the support transfers the audio signal into the M-1 while retaining the clean appearance of the speaker.
All amplification should be switched off before the speaker cable or M-1 is connected.
Speaker Orientation
The M-1 mounting system allows the speaker to be used in portrait or landscape orientation when assembled according to the official instructions.
Portrait orientation is the usual choice for front left, front right and surround channels.
Landscape positioning may be useful in specialist installations, although both speakers in a stereo pair should normally use the same orientation.
The speaker’s rotatable front badge can be aligned with the selected position.
Follow the Assembly Sequence Carefully
The M-1 mounting assembly contains internal electrical connections as well as mechanical fixings.
Use the official instructions when removing the original table-stand base and attaching the speaker to the FS-M-1. Do not force or twist the speaker into position.
Speaker Angle
The M-1’s mounting architecture allows the speaker to be directed towards the listening position.
Both speakers in a stereo pair should normally use a similar angle so their tonal balance and arrival time remain consistent.
Small adjustments can improve the central stereo image, dialogue clarity and coverage across a wider seating area.
Stable Floor Positioning
Each stand should be placed on a firm, level surface where it cannot rock or lean.
Make sure the complete base rests securely on the floor and is not partly supported by an uneven rug edge, loose floor covering or cable.
The FS-M-1 uses a compact base suited to the small M-1 speaker, but the complete assembly can still tip if it is struck, pulled or climbed upon.
Positioning the Stands
A useful starting point is to:
- Place both stands at a similar distance from the main listening seat
- Position the speakers symmetrically around the screen or listening area
- Avoid placing either stand tightly into a room corner
- Direct both speakers towards the listening position
- Keep the bases clear of doors and frequently used walkways
- Route the cables so they cannot be pulled or tripped over
- Check that each stand remains level and stable
- Make small positioning adjustments and listen again
The ideal spacing and angle will depend on whether the M-1 speakers are being used for stereo, front-channel or surround duties.
Using the Stands with a Subwoofer
A pair of stand-mounted M-1 speakers can be used alone in a smaller stereo system or partnered with a powered subwoofer for greater scale and bass extension.
The Bowers & Wilkins ASW608 is used with five M-1 speakers in the current MT-50 compact home cinema system.
Correct crossover, level and phase settings will help the subwoofer blend with the M-1 speakers rather than sounding like a separate source of bass.
Assembly
The FS-M-1 stands require assembly before use.
The bases, supporting columns, upper mounting assemblies and supplied hardware should be fitted together in the sequence shown in the official Bowers & Wilkins instructions.
Assemble the stands on a clean, soft surface to protect their finish from tools, grit and sharp objects.
Complete one stand at a time and check the cable route before attaching the M-1 speaker.
Keep the M-1 Adjustment Tool
The Torx adjustment key supplied with the M-1 is normally stored beneath the rubber mat on its original table-stand base.
Remove and retain this tool before dismantling the table stand, as it may be required when transferring the speaker to its floor stand.
Attaching the Speakers
Support the M-1 carefully while aligning it with the upper mounting assembly.
Make sure the cable and internal connection are positioned correctly and are not trapped or strained.
Tighten the relevant fixings only as instructed. Excessive force could damage the mounting system, cabinet or internal connection.
Moving the Stands
Disconnect the speaker cable before moving the stands any significant distance.
Lift each stand by supporting its base and column rather than pulling on the M-1 speaker or its swivelling mount.
Do not drag the stand across wooden, tiled or laminate flooring.
Where practical, remove the M-1 speaker before transporting or repacking the stand.
Household Safety
Position the FS-M-1 stands where they are unlikely to be knocked, pulled or used for support.
Take particular care in homes with young children, pets or narrow walkways.
Speaker cables should be routed close to the wall or beneath suitable cable protection so they cannot pull the stands off balance.
The direct mounting system secures the speaker to the stand but cannot prevent the complete assembly from tipping if sufficient force is applied.
Not Mass Loadable
The FS-M-1 is a slim, integrated stand designed around the M-1’s cable route and mounting system.
Bowers & Wilkins does not specify a user-fillable chamber for sand or proprietary stand filler.
Do not attempt to pour filling material into the column, as it may obstruct the cable route or damage the integrated connection system.
Finish Options
The FS-M-1 is available in:
The two finishes are designed to match the current Matte Black and Matte White M-1 speakers.
Finish availability should be confirmed when ordering.
Key Features
- Dedicated floor stands for the current Bowers & Wilkins M-1
- Compatible with the M-1 design introduced in 2012
- Not compatible with the original earlier-generation M-1
- Supplied as a pair
- Speakers sold separately
- Integrated M-1 mounting arrangement
- Concealed speaker-cable routing through the supporting column
- Integrated electrical connection at the speaker mount
- Supports suitable portrait or landscape M-1 positioning
- Raises the speaker to a more suitable listening height
- Published stand height of 956mm
- Compact floorstanding footprint
- Suitable for stereo and home cinema systems
- Matte Black or Matte White finish
- Assembly required
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the FS-M-1 stands supplied as a pair?
Yes. The package contains two floor stands for a pair of M-1 speakers.
Are the M-1 speakers included?
No. The speakers are sold separately.
Which M-1 speakers fit these stands?
They are designed for the current Bowers & Wilkins M-1 introduced in 2012 and available in Matte Black or Matte White.
Do they fit the original M-1?
No. The earlier M-1 uses a different mounting system and is not compatible with the current FS-M-1 stands.
Why does the Audio T address include “2012”?
The date distinguishes the compatible current-generation M-1 from the original model. The official product name is FS-M-1 Speaker Stands.
How high are the stands?
Audio T lists the stand height as 956mm.
Can the speaker cable be hidden?
Yes. Speaker cable routes through the central column and connects to the integrated M-1 mounting assembly.
Should the cable be fitted before the speaker?
Yes. Route and connect the cable during assembly before securing the M-1 to the upper mounting system.
Can the M-1 be used vertically on the stand?
Yes. Portrait orientation is the conventional position for stereo, front-channel and surround use.
Can the M-1 be mounted horizontally?
The M-1 mounting architecture supports landscape positioning when configured according to the official instructions. Both speakers in a stereo pair should normally use the same orientation.
Can the speaker be angled towards the listener?
Yes. The M-1’s swivelling mounting system allows its direction to be adjusted during setup.
Do the stands improve sound quality?
They can improve placement by raising the speakers and allowing them to be positioned independently of furniture. The final result will depend on the room, speaker spacing, angle and system setup.
Can the stands be used for front home cinema speakers?
Yes. They are suitable for M-1 speakers used as the front left and right channels of a compact home cinema system.
Can they be used for surround speakers?
Yes. They can support M-1 side or rear surround speakers where wall mounting is unsuitable.
Can the stand columns be filled with sand?
No user-fillable chamber is specified. Filling material could obstruct the cable route or damage the internal mounting system.
Do the stands require assembly?
Yes. The bases, columns and upper mounting assemblies must be fitted together following the supplied instructions.
What tool is required to remove the M-1 table stand?
The M-1 includes a Torx adjustment key stored beneath the rubber mat on its table-stand base. Keep this tool when transferring the speaker to the floor stand.
Can the stands be used with another speaker brand?
No. Their mounting and connection system is designed specifically for the compatible Bowers & Wilkins M-1.
What finishes are available?
The FS-M-1 stands are available in Matte Black and Matte White.
What warranty is included?
Audio T currently lists a five-year manufacturer’s warranty. Cover remains subject to the applicable Bowers & Wilkins terms, proof of purchase and your UK statutory rights.
Related Bowers & Wilkins Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Current-generation M-1 compatibility advice
- Stereo and home cinema speaker-placement guidance
- Help transferring M-1 speakers from table stands
- Concealed speaker-cable routing advice
- AV receiver and amplifier matching
- Subwoofer and bass-management guidance
- Complete compact home cinema system planning
- Assembly and setup support
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store for help matching the Bowers & Wilkins FS-M-1 stands with your M-1 speakers.