Bowers & Wilkins’ latest flagship headphones, the PX8 S2, deliver an impressive audio experience, but their hefty price tag—$799 (£629)—leaves many potential buyers questioning their value. This second-generation model represents a notable upgrade from its predecessor, and while it excels in sound quality and design, it faces stiff competition in a market already brimming with premium noise-canceling headphones.
A Step Up in Sound and Design
The PX8 S2 builds upon the foundation of previous Bowers & Wilkins headphones, incorporating a slimmer design and a slightly more comfortable fit compared to the original PX8. At the heart of these headphones are redesigned 40mm dynamic full-range carbon cone drivers, paired with a high-performance digital signal processor (DSP) and a dedicated amplifier/DAC. Bowers & Wilkins claims these enhancements result in their best-sounding headphones ever created, offering “true 24-bit audio connection” and refined sound reproduction. Independent testing shows they consistently outperform the Sony WH-1000XM6 and the step-down PX7 S3 models.
The upgrades extend beyond internal components, with a striking design incorporating a Napa leather finish and a new, exposed cable that runs along the aluminum arm mechanism. Furthermore, both ear cushions and the headband are replaceable—though installation requires a “trained service engineer,” a less-than-ideal solution compared to the ease of magnetic replacements found in Apple’s AirPods Max.
Performance and Features
The PX8 S2 performs admirably across various categories. Noise canceling, while not surpassing the industry-leading Sony WH-1000XM6 or the upcoming Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones, has been significantly improved over earlier Bowers & Wilkins models. The pass-through/transparency mode also provides a natural-sounding awareness of the surroundings.
Voice-calling quality has seen a considerable boost thanks to the addition of eight microphones (four in each ear cup), an improvement over the six found in the previous model. Callers reported clear voice transmission and effective background noise reduction.
The headphones offer a suite of connectivity options, including Bluetooth 5.3 with Qualcomm aptX Lossless technology, USB-C audio, and the ability to pair with two devices simultaneously via multipoint connectivity. A USB-C to 3.5mm cable is included, allowing for wired listening via a headphone port. Firmware updates are planned for later in the year, bringing support for spatial audio and Bluetooth LE Audio with Auracast broadcast functionality.
Key Specifications at a Glance
- Weight: 310 grams (10.9 ounces)
- Drivers: Redesigned 40mm dynamic full-range carbon cone
- Microphones: Eight (four per ear cup)
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3 (aptX Lossless), USB-C audio
- Battery Life: Up to 30 hours playback (15-minute charge for 7 hours)
- Color Options: Onyx black, warm stone
- Price: $799
The Bottom Line
The Bowers & Wilkins PX8 S2 headphones represent a compelling blend of premium sound quality, refined design, and modern features. However, the $799 price tag places them firmly in the luxury segment, and potential buyers should carefully consider whether the sonic improvements justify the significant investment compared to competitive offerings from Sony and Bose. While they deliver an exceptional listening experience, the price remains a considerable barrier to entry, especially given the need for a professional technician to replace ear cushions and the headband.
