Picture this: you’re on a bustling city street, but all you hear is your favorite song in crystal-clear quality. That’s the magic Bowers & Wilkins aims to deliver with their Px8 Wireless Headphones. But do these high-end cans truly hit the mark, or are they just another pretty face in the headphone market? Let’s unpack the details.
Our Top Pick
Design and Build Quality
First Impressions
The Px8 headphones are a sight to behold. Wrapped in luxurious Nappa leather with aluminum accents, they exude sophistication. The ear cups swivel flat, making them easy to slip into the included fabric-coated shell case—a thoughtful touch for travelers.
Comfort Level
Slip these on, and it’s like resting your head on a plush leather couch. The memory foam ear pads provide a snug yet gentle fit, suitable for extended listening sessions. However, at 320 grams, they do have some heft, which might become noticeable during marathon listening sessions.
Features and Specifications
Audio Drivers
At the heart of the Px8 are 40mm Carbon Cone drivers, inspired by B&W’s high-end loudspeakers. These drivers aim to reduce distortion and deliver precise high-frequency details, promising an immersive audio experience.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)
Equipped with six microphones, the Px8’s ANC system actively monitors and adapts to your environment, aiming to silence unwanted noise. Whether you’re on a plane or in a noisy café, these headphones strive to keep distractions at bay.
Connectivity Options
The Px8 supports Bluetooth 5.2 with aptX Adaptive, AAC, and SBC codecs, ensuring high-quality wireless audio. For those who prefer a wired connection, there’s a USB-C and a 3.5mm audio jack, offering flexibility across devices.
Battery Life
With up to 30 hours of playback, the Px8 is designed to keep your tunes going all day. And if you’re in a rush, a quick 15-minute charge provides up to seven hours of listening—a handy feature for the forgetful charger.
Controls and User Interface
Physical buttons on the right ear cup handle power, volume, and playback controls. A user-selectable button on the left ear cup, customizable via the Bowers & Wilkins Music app, adds a layer of personalization.
Sound Quality
Sound Profile
The Px8 Wireless Headphones delivers a sound that’s both clear and detailed. Bass notes are tight and controlled, mids are rich, and highs are crisp without being harsh. However, some users have noted that at lower volumes, the energy and sparkle of the music can diminish slightly.
Soundstage and Imaging
These headphones create an intimate soundstage, making you feel as if you’re in the room with the musicians. Instrument separation is commendable, allowing you to pick out individual elements in complex tracks.
Frequency Response
The Px8 handles bass, midrange, and treble with finesse. Bass is punchy yet refined, mids are natural, and treble is detailed without straying into sibilance. This balanced tuning caters to a wide range of music genres.
Active Noise Cancellation Performance
Effectiveness
The ANC on the Px8 effectively reduces ambient noise, making it suitable for various environments. While it may not completely silence the rumble of a jet engine, it significantly diminishes background distractions, allowing for an immersive listening experience.
Transparency Mode
Need to hear what’s happening around you? The Transparency Mode lets external sounds in, so you can stay aware of your surroundings without removing the headphones.
Connectivity and App Integration
Bluetooth Performance
The Bluetooth 5.2 connection is stable and offers a decent range, allowing you to move freely without audio dropouts. Multipoint pairing is supported, so you can connect to your phone and laptop simultaneously—a boon for multitaskers.
Companion App
The Bowers & Wilkins Music app provides firmware updates and basic sound customization options. While the app offers bass and treble adjustments, some users might find the lack of a full equalizer limiting.
Battery Life and Charging
Real-World Usage
In everyday use, the Px8’s battery life lives up to its 30-hour claim, even with ANC engaged. This endurance ensures you won’t be left in silence during long trips or extended work sessions.
Charging Time
A full charge takes approximately three hours. However, the quick-charge feature is a lifesaver, offering several hours of playback with just a short charging session.
Bowers & Wilkins Px8
Elevate your audio experience with unparalleled luxury and sound precision.
Conclusion
The Bowers & Wilkins Px8 Wireless Headphones offer a blend of luxury design and high-quality sound. While they come at a premium price, they cater to audiophiles seeking both style and substance.
However, competitors like the Sony WH-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones provide strong alternatives, each with its own set of advantages. Your choice ultimately depends on your priorities, be it design, sound quality, noise cancellation, or budget.
FAQs
What codecs do the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 support?
The Px8 supports Bluetooth 5.2 with aptX Adaptive, AAC, and SBC codecs, ensuring high-quality wireless audio.
Can the Px8 be used wired without battery power?
Yes, the Px8 can be used in wired mode via the USB-C or 3.5mm audio jack, even when the battery is depleted.
How effective is the ANC in various environments?
The Px8’s ANC effectively reduces ambient noise in environments like offices, public transport, and outdoor settings, though it may not completely silence louder noises.
Is there a companion app for sound customization?
Yes, the Bowers & Wilkins Music app provides firmware updates and basic sound customization options, including bass and treble adjustments.
What is the warranty period for the Px8 headphones?
The Px8 typically comes with a two-year warranty, covering manufacturing defects and issues arising under normal use conditions.
