Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2: sleeker design, stronger ANC, and Spatial Audio in a luxury over‑ear package
Bowers & Wilkins has introduced the Px8 S2, a premium wireless over‑ear headphone that builds on the 2022 Px8 with a slimmer silhouette, upgraded acoustics, and smarter noise cancellation. The result aims to deliver a more comfortable fit, cleaner sound, and clearer calls—without sacrificing the brand’s signature craftsmanship.
Design and comfort refinements
The Px8 S2 retains the iconic aesthetic of its predecessor but trims the profile for a lighter, more streamlined feel. A reworked headband improves durability and long‑wear comfort, while plush memory‑foam earcups and aluminum arms underscore the high‑end build. The exterior is finished in soft nappa leather, and both ear cushions and headband pads can be replaced to extend longevity. Color options include Onyx Black and Warm Stone.
Acoustic upgrades for cleaner, more detailed sound
Inside, custom 40 mm carbon fiber diaphragms return, now paired with a redesigned driver chassis, updated suspension, and stronger magnets for lower distortion and greater control. A dedicated headphone amplifier and refined DSP further optimize clarity and dynamics. Wireless audio support covers aptX Adaptive (up to 24‑bit/96 kHz) and aptX Lossless, with LC3 and Auracast slated to arrive via an over‑the‑air software update.
Better ANC and call clarity with more microphones
Active noise cancellation takes a notable step forward. The Px8 S2 moves from six to eight microphones, repositioned for improved noise sensing and voice pickup. Combined with the brand’s ADI PureVoice processing, users should hear crisper calls and fewer distractions in challenging environments.
Immersive Spatial Audio
Following the company’s first Spatial Audio implementation on an earlier model, the Px8 S2 adds its own take on 3D listening with proprietary decoding and processing. The goal is a more engaging soundstage that keeps vocals and instruments precisely placed.
Smart features and app control
The Bowers & Wilkins Music app handles firmware updates, EQ, and tuning preferences. A 5‑band equalizer lets listeners tailor the sound, or switch to True Sound mode for the intended voicing.
Battery life, charging, and travel‑friendly extras
Battery life remains rated at up to 30 hours with ANC enabled. A quick 15‑minute charge yields up to 7 hours of playback—ideal for last‑minute top‑ups. The earcups fold flat into a protective carrying case, which includes a dedicated compartment for the USB‑C to 3.5 mm cable and a USB‑C to USB‑C cable.
Pricing and availability
The Px8 S2 are positioned above the original Px8, with pricing at €729 in Europe, $799 in the US, and £629 in the UK. They are available now in Onyx Black and Warm Stone.
Quick spec highlights
– Slimmer, more comfortable design with reinforced headband
– Nappa leather finish, aluminum arms, memory‑foam earcups
– Replaceable ear cushions and headband pads
– Custom 40 mm carbon fiber drivers with new chassis, suspension, and magnets
– Dedicated amplifier and refined DSP; lower distortion tuning
– aptX Adaptive (up to 24‑bit/96 kHz) and aptX Lossless support
– LC3 and Auracast to arrive via OTA update
– Eight microphones for improved ANC and call clarity with ADI PureVoice
– Spatial Audio with proprietary processing
– Up to 30 hours battery life with ANC; 15‑minute fast charge for up to 7 hours
– Fold‑flat design with hard case and both USB‑C to 3.5 mm and USB‑C to USB‑C cables
If you’re looking for a luxury noise‑cancelling headphone that blends premium materials with modern codecs, Spatial Audio, and class‑leading comfort, the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 S2 move the series decisively forward.
