Bowers & Wilkins released the Px8 S2, a pair of wireless headphones that aim to be the brand’s best wireless offering. While the Px8 S2’s audio performance marks a clear step forward, the product faces critiques regarding other premium features.
The sound quality is highlighted as a significant improvement over predecessors. The headphones feature 40mm dynamic full range carbon cone drive units, with upgrades to the chassis and motor. Reviewers noted that the Px8 S2 are crisper in tone, sharper, and more detailed than previous models, delivering an enhanced energy, dynamism, and bass power. Overall, the sound quality represents a substantial leap in detail, resolution, and bass power.
However, the upgrades are not uniformly distributed. Key areas that received criticism include the noise-cancelling performance and call quality. The noise-cancellation ability, though noted to reduce cabin and engine noise on flights and public transport, was found to be comparable to the older Px8 model, falling short of competitors like Sony and Bose.
Similarly, the call quality was reported as not being as good as the previous generation.
Other functional changes include a rearranged button placement on the earcup. The Px8 S2 supports advanced wireless codecs, including aptX Adaptive and aptX Lossless, requiring compatible smartphones for full ‘lossless performance.’ Furthermore, the inclusion of USB-C audio was viewed as a positive addition.
Regarding longevity and connectivity, the wireless performance is deemed strong, utilizing aptX Adaptive to maintain soundstage integrity under interference without connection breaks. While the manufacturer claims a 30-hour battery life, testing indicated a lower average of about 25 hours.
In conclusion, while the sound quality makes the Px8 S2 a ‘qualified success’ and a true advancement over the original Px8, the lack of substantial gains in noise-cancellation and call quality prevents it from achieving the status of an outstanding all-rounder.
Source: Trusted Reviews