Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2 vs. Px8: A Detailed Comparison

When it comes to premium wireless headphones, Bowers & Wilkins is a brand known for delivering exceptional sound quality and luxury design. The Px7 S2 and Px8 are two of their top-tier models, both featuring active noise cancellation (ANC), high-resolution audio performance, and long battery life. However, there are key differences in sound quality, materials, and price, making it essential to choose the right model based on your needs. In this comparison, we will break down their design, audio performance, noise cancellation, battery life, and overall value to help you make the best decision.

Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2 Over-Ear Headphones

The Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2 over-ear headphones are a solid choice for audiophiles looking for top-tier sound quality and advanced noise cancellation. The redesigned acoustic system, paired with an angled drive unit and powerful motor, delivers remarkable audio clarity. These headphones are equipped with active noise cancellation that effectively blocks external noise, making them ideal for use in busy environments. The addition of two external adjustable microphones enhances voice clarity, making them a strong option for calls. The Bowers & Wilkins Music App is a convenient feature, allowing users to adjust sound settings and ANC modes with ease, providing a personalized listening experience.

In terms of design, the Px7 S2 is both stylish and comfortable, using premium materials like lightweight polymer arms, technical fabrics, and plush ear cushions that ensure comfort even during extended wear. Battery life is impressive, offering up to 30 hours of playback on a full charge and a quick charge feature that delivers 7 hours of use from just 15 minutes.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

1. Advanced noise cancellation for superior audio clarity.
2. Improved microphone arrangement for better call quality.
3. 30-hour battery life with a 2-hour full charge.
4. 15-minute quick charge for 7 hours of playback.
5. Customizable sound settings via the Bowers & Wilkins Music App.

Pros:

1. Exceptional sound quality with clear, detailed audio.
2. Effective noise cancellation for immersive listening.
3. Comfortable design with premium materials.
4. Long battery life and quick charge feature.
5. Easy setup and sound customization via the app.

Cons:

1. Heavier feel on the head for some users.

Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Headphones

The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Over-Ear Wireless Headphones are a premium offering with industry-leading audio performance. The headphones feature a newly designed acoustic system and an ultra-high-resolution carbon drive unit, delivering detailed and clear sound. The advanced active noise cancellation technology effectively blocks unwanted noise, ensuring an immersive listening experience. The adjustable external microphones improve call quality significantly, making these headphones a solid choice for both music and voice calls. The Bowers & Wilkins Music App enhances usability by allowing easy customization of sound settings and noise cancellation modes, making it simple to tailor your listening experience.

Comfort and design are also key highlights of the Px8 headphones. Made with soft Nappa leather and lightweight aluminum arms, they provide a luxurious feel and excellent comfort for extended wear. The battery life is impressive, offering 30 hours of playback with a full charge, and the quick-charge feature gives 7 hours of use from just 15 minutes of charging.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

1. Ultra-high-resolution carbon drive unit for industry-leading audio clarity.
2. Advanced active noise cancellation with adjustable external microphones.
3. Premium Nappa leather and lightweight aluminum construction for comfort.
4. 30 hours battery life with a 2-hour charge and 7 hours from a 15-minute quick charge.
5. Customizable settings through the Bowers & Wilkins Music App.

Pros:

1. Exceptional sound quality with high clarity and detailed imaging.
2. Effective noise cancellation for immersive listening.
3. Luxurious design with comfortable Nappa leather ear cups.
4. Long battery life and quick charge feature.
5. Easy setup and customization through the Bowers & Wilkins app.

Cons:

1. High price point may not justify the value for everyone.

Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2 vs. Px8: Detailed Comparison

Bowers & Wilkins is known for its high-end audio products, and both the Px7 S2 and Px8 over-ear wireless headphones deliver premium sound, effective noise cancellation, and luxurious designs. However, there are some key differences that set these two models apart.

Design & Comfort

Both headphones feature an over-ear design aimed at providing maximum comfort for long listening sessions. However, the Px8 takes luxury a step further, using soft Nappa leather and lightweight aluminum arms for a more refined look and feel. In contrast, the Px7 S2, while still premium, features high-quality technical fabrics and polymer arms, making it slightly less extravagant but still comfortable.

In terms of weight, the Px8 is slightly heavier, likely due to its metal components, while the Px7 S2 is a bit lighter. Both models have well-cushioned ear cups, but users with sensitivity to heavier headphones might find the Px7 S2 more comfortable for prolonged use.

Feature	B&W Px7 S2	B&W Px8
Materials	Technical fabric, polymer arms	Soft Nappa leather, lightweight aluminum
Weight	Lighter for longer comfort	Slightly heavier due to premium materials
Ear Cushions	Comfortable, well-padded	Even softer with luxurious finish

Sound Quality

When it comes to audio performance, the Px8 is the clear winner. It features an ultra-high-resolution carbon drive unit, which significantly enhances clarity and soundstage. This results in more refined treble, deeper bass, and an overall more immersive listening experience. The Px7 S2, while still delivering excellent sound, uses a less advanced driver system. It offers great clarity and balance, but the Px8 has a noticeable edge in detail and precision.

For audiophiles, the Px8 is worth the extra cost, as it provides a richer and more dynamic sound. However, the Px7 S2 still delivers high-quality audio that will satisfy most users who are not seeking absolute perfection.

Feature	B&W Px7 S2	B&W Px8
Driver Type	Standard optimized acoustic system	Ultra-high-resolution carbon drive unit
Sound Clarity	Excellent, balanced sound	Superior clarity, more refined soundstage
Bass & Treble	Well-balanced, slightly warm	Deep bass, crystal-clear highs

Noise Cancellation & Call Quality

Both models come with active noise cancellation (ANC), but the Px8’s ANC is slightly more advanced. It features an optimized noise-canceling algorithm that does a better job at blocking external sounds, making it ideal for noisy environments. That said, the Px7 S2’s noise cancellation is still excellent and more than capable for commuting or office use.

Both headphones feature two adjustable external microphones that improve voice clarity for calls. Users generally report better voice pickup with the Px8, making it a better option for those who take frequent calls in noisy settings.

Feature	B&W Px7 S2	B&W Px8
Noise Cancellation	Excellent but slightly behind Px8	Superior, better noise isolation
Microphone Setup	Two external mics, good call quality	Two external mics, even clearer calls

Battery Life & Charging

Battery life is an area where both models perform equally well. Both the Px7 S2 and Px8 offer 30 hours of battery life on a full charge, making them ideal for long trips. Additionally, both models support quick charging, providing 7 hours of playback from just 15 minutes of charging.

Since there is no significant difference in battery performance, neither model has an advantage in this category.

Feature	B&W Px7 S2	B&W Px8
Battery Life	30 hours	30 hours
Quick Charge	7 hours in 15 minutes	7 hours in 15 minutes

Value & Price

Price is one of the most significant differences between these two models. The Px8 is considerably more expensive than the Px7 S2, largely due to its ultra-premium materials and enhanced sound performance. While the Px8 justifies its price with better sound clarity, ANC, and build quality, the Px7 S2 remains a strong contender for those who want high-quality headphones without spending top dollar.

If luxury and top-tier sound quality are priorities, the Px8 is worth the investment. However, for users who want an excellent balance of performance and price, the Px7 S2 is the better deal.

Feature	B&W Px7 S2	B&W Px8
Price	More affordable	Expensive, luxury-tier
Value for Money	Excellent value	Best for audiophiles & luxury lovers

FAQs

What are the main differences between the Px7 S2 and Px8?

The biggest differences are in sound quality, materials, and price. The Px8 features ultra-high-resolution carbon drivers, which provide more refined audio clarity compared to the Px7 S2. Additionally, the Px8 uses luxurious materials like Nappa leather and lightweight aluminum arms, whereas the Px7 S2 has high-quality technical fabrics and polymer arms. The Px8 is more expensive, but it offers a superior listening experience and a more premium design.

Which model has better noise cancellation?

Both headphones offer active noise cancellation (ANC), but the Px8 has a more advanced noise-canceling algorithm. This allows it to block external noise more effectively, making it the better option for those who frequently travel or work in noisy environments. However, the Px7 S2 still provides excellent ANC that will satisfy most users.

How do the battery lives compare?

Both the Px7 S2 and Px8 have the same battery life—30 hours on a full charge. They also support quick charging, giving 7 hours of playback from just 15 minutes of charging. If battery life is a major concern, you won’t find any difference between these two models.

Are the Px8 worth the higher price?

If sound quality and luxury materials are your priority, then the Px8 is worth the investment. The carbon drivers produce superior clarity and depth, and the premium Nappa leather build adds an extra layer of comfort and sophistication. However, if you’re looking for great performance at a better value, the Px7 S2 is an excellent alternative that still delivers high-end audio without the premium price tag.

Which one is better for long listening sessions?

Both models are comfortable for extended use, but the Px8 is slightly heavier due to its metal components. If weight is a concern, the Px7 S2 might be more comfortable for longer sessions. However, both models have well-cushioned ear cups and an ergonomic fit, ensuring comfort over extended periods.

Both models offer excellent features, but the Px8 is for those who want the absolute best, while the Px7 S2 provides fantastic quality at a more affordable price. If budget is not a concern, the Px8 is the superior choice, but for those looking for high-quality wireless headphones at a better value, the Px7 S2 remains a fantastic option.

Conclusion

Both the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2 and Px8 deliver an impressive listening experience with top-tier noise cancellation, long battery life, and premium build quality. The Px8 stands out with its ultra-high-resolution carbon drivers, superior ANC, and luxurious materials, making it the ideal choice for audiophiles and those who appreciate fine craftsmanship. However, it comes at a significantly higher price.

On the other hand, the Px7 S2 provides excellent performance at a more reasonable cost, making it a great option for those who want high-end sound without the luxury price tag. If budget is not a concern and you want the absolute best, the Px8 is worth it. But if you’re looking for great value with premium sound and noise cancellation, the Px7 S2 remains an outstanding choice.