Bowers & Wilkins (B&W) has launched the Px8 S2, the new flagship in B&W's lineup of headphones. It's a wireless over-ear model equipped with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and features numerous improvements over its predecessor, the Px8. Buyers can choose from two versions.
Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2: audiophile sound wherever you are
According to the designers, the PX8 S2 is the most advanced headphone B&W has ever produced. It sits above the acclaimed Px7 S3 and is the successor to the Px8 .
The new model builds on the Px8's design, but is slimmer, more refined, and covered in luxurious nappa leather on every surface. Even the housing is more compact, making the headphones easier to use. Available in Onyx Black or Warm Stone, the headphones feature a new, visible cable detail within the aluminum arm structure. Importantly, the ear pads and headband can be replaced by trained service technicians, ensuring long-lasting enjoyment.
The real technical leap, according to the company, comes from the placement of the 40mm Carbon Cone drivers, now supported by a redesigned chassis, voice coil, suspension, and magnet. The drivers are angled towards the listener's ear for improved imaging and stereo spatiality, while a dedicated discrete amplifier promises greater scale and energy than ever before.
B&W Px8 S2: wireless and wired connectivity
Wireless performance has also been improved. In addition to aptX Adaptive, the Px8 S2 also supports Qualcomm’s new aptX Lossless codec, which enables 24-bit/96 kHz playback from compatible sources. High-resolution streaming from services such as Qobuz and Tidal is supported directly through the B&W Music app, while analogue 3.5mm and digital USB-C connections are also present. Both cables are included in the carrying case.
Ambient Noise Cancellation (ANC) is provided by a refined system, derived from the Px7 S3, with eight microphones strategically placed around each earcup. These work together to cancel out ambient noise without affecting the musicality of the presentation, while ADI Pure Voice processing ensures excellent sound quality.
B&W Px8 S2: operation and battery capacity
Battery life remains impressive at 30 hours with ANC enabled, while a quick 15-minute charge delivers up to seven hours of listening time. Controls are handled via both physical buttons and the Music app, which now offers a five-band EQ in addition to the brand's standard “True Sound” tuning. A revised control layout makes physical interaction more intuitive, with the Quick Action button allowing the user to switch between ANC modes or activate voice assistants.
Future-proofing is also promised, with support for spatial audio coming via an over-the-air update later this year, followed by Bluetooth LE Audio with Auracast.
The Px8 S2 is available now for a price of $729.
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