Top Headphone Shop
Most audiophiles tend to like audiophile wired headphones over wireless but with the changing marketplace and the growing need for everything to be wireless in consumer electronics – there is more and more pressure to make audiophile grade headphones. Never has this been more true than today.
The number of players in the product category is nearly unlimited. The biggest companies in the consumer electronics world are spending millions upon millions per pair of audiophile headphones in development to get to a product that is worthy of mainstream AND audiophile acceptance. This isn’t such an easy feat to accomplish in terms of sound but what about the issue of vanity and fashion? With mainstream consumers, concepts like color, fabrics, durability, fit-and-feel all come before sound.
Is there hope of finding great audiophile headphones that are over-the-ear wireless that have the type of sound that you expect from your best wired headphones? The short answer is “yes” but make no mistake – it will take you some time and a little research to find the perfect over-the-ear wireless headphones for you. They all have their perks and most have downsides too.
Here’s a list of some of our favorites for your consideration on a pros and cons basis.
Apple AirPods Max ($549)
Pros:
- Incredible industrial design (shocker, right)
- They make their own driver (amazing)
- The coolest headphone case in the business.
- Five awesome, two-tone colors
- Great noise cancelation
- Good bass (not too boomy)
- Easy to use (one button and one dial)
- Easy pairing with any Apple product
- Siri (on demand at any time)
Cons:
- Boomy mid-bass performance (bad for vocals)
- Tight fit on larger heads
Pros:
- Great noise canceling (Bose and Sony are the best but many are chasing them these days)
- Excellent industrial design
- Very durable
- Open midrange sound (great for vocals)
Cons:
- These headphones have a bright top end.
- There are only two colors offered
Pros:
- Great industrial design.
- USB-C inputs (for powering up) versus Lightening or Micro options.
- Good case
- Lots of cool colors
- Great battery performance
Cons:
- Lousy bass performance (very unlike their loudspeakers)
Sennheiser Momentum 4 ($349)
Pros:
- A great value.
- Best overall sound in the category of over-the-ear wireless headphones.
- Audiophile heritage.
- German design (but likely made in Asia)
Cons:
- These headphones, like the Apple’s have a tight fit on larger heads
- There aren’t as many tricky technical features as the R&D money goes into the sound first, second and last at Sennheiser.
We hope this gets you off to a good start with your wireless, over-the-hear headphone journey.
In today’s fast-paced world, music and sound quality are more important than ever. Whether you’re an audiophile, a casual listener, a gamer, or a professional in the music industry, having the right pair of headphones can make all the difference. That’s why finding the perfect headphone shop is crucial. This guide explores what makes a headphone shop the best, top headphone stores globally, and how to choose the right shop for your needs.
What Makes a Headphone Shop Stand Out?
Not all headphone shops are created equal. The best stores offer a unique blend of high-quality products, knowledgeable staff, excellent customer service, and competitive pricing. Here are some key factors that define a top headphone shop:
1. Wide Selection of Brands and Models
A top-notch headphone shop should stock a vast array of brands, including Bose, Sony, Sennheiser, Audio-Technica, Beyerdynamic, AKG, and more. It should cater to different categories like noise-canceling headphones, studio monitors, wireless earbuds, and gaming headsets.
2. Knowledgeable Staff and Expert Guidance
A good headphone store employs audio experts who understand sound quality, impedance, frequency response, and driver technology. They should help customers make informed decisions based on their preferences.
3. In-Store Testing and Demo Units
Top headphone shops allow customers to test different models before purchasing. A demo station provides a hands-on experience, ensuring buyers get the best match for their needs.
4. Competitive Pricing and Discounts
Price is a significant factor when shopping for headphones. A great store offers reasonable prices, price-matching options, seasonal discounts, and membership deals to enhance affordability.
5. Warranty and After-Sales Service
A top headphone shop provides warranty coverage, repair services, and return policies. Customer satisfaction should be their priority.
Best Headphone Shops Around the World
Here’s a list of some of the best headphone stores worldwide where you can find top-tier audio products.
1. Audio46 (New York, USA)
A haven for audiophiles, Audio46 offers a wide range of high-end headphones, amplifiers, and accessories. They stock premium brands and provide in-store testing.
2. Jaben Audio (Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia)
Jaben is a leading headphone specialist store in Asia, known for its excellent collection of earphones, DACs, and amplifiers. The staff is highly knowledgeable, making it a great place for enthusiasts.
3. Yodobashi Camera (Japan)
If you’re in Japan, Yodobashi Camera is a must-visit. It has an extensive electronics section with dedicated headphone demo stations where you can test and compare models.
4. Custom Cable (London, UK)
Custom Cable is a trusted name in the UK, offering premium headphones, custom in-ear monitors, and high-fidelity audio equipment. They provide excellent service and expert advice.
5. Stereophile Sound & Vision (Australia)
Based in Australia, this shop specializes in high-end audio equipment, including top-quality headphones. It’s a favorite among serious audiophiles.
How to Choose the Right Headphone Shop for You
When selecting a headphone shop, consider the following factors to ensure you get the best experience:
1. Location and Accessibility
If you prefer an in-store experience, choose a shop that’s easily accessible. However, if you’re open to online shopping, check for reputable e-commerce platforms.
2. Product Range
Ensure the store offers a variety of headphone types, including wired, wireless, over-ear, in-ear, and open-back models.
3. Customer Reviews and Ratings
Read reviews and ratings to gauge the store’s reputation. A shop with high ratings and positive feedback is more likely to offer great service.
4. Return Policies and Warranties
Check the return and exchange policies before making a purchase. A good shop offers easy returns and comprehensive warranties.
5. Price and Promotions
Compare prices across different stores and look for promotions, discounts, and bundled deals.
Sennheiser has long been a dominant name in the audio industry, delivering high-quality headphones and sound equipment that cater to casual listeners and audiophiles alike. The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless, priced at $349, is the latest iteration of the popular Momentum series, featuring premium sound quality, impressive battery life, and enhanced noise cancellation. This article explores the features, design, performance, battery life, and overall value of the Momentum 4 Wireless headphones, helping you decide if they are the right choice for you.
Design and Build Quality
The Sennheiser Momentum 4 sports a modern and minimalistic design, a significant departure from its predecessor, the Momentum 3. While the leather-wrapped earcups and metal arms of the Momentum 3 exuded a classic, vintage charm, the Momentum 4 embraces a more contemporary look with a focus on comfort and practicality.
Key Design Features:
Lightweight Construction: The Momentum 4 weighs approximately 293g, making it comfortable for extended listening sessions.
Fabric-Covered Headband: A soft fabric padding on the headband ensures a comfortable fit without excessive pressure on the head.
Rotatable Earcups: The earcups can be folded flat for easy storage in the included carrying case.
Memory Foam Earpads: The earcups are designed with plush memory foam cushions for enhanced comfort and passive noise isolation.
Touch Controls: A touch-sensitive panel on the right earcup allows for seamless control of playback, volume, and calls.
While the design shift may disappoint fans of the Momentum 3’s retro aesthetics, the Momentum 4 prioritizes functionality and comfort, making it an excellent choice for long-term use.
Sound Quality: Audiophile-Grade Performance
Sennheiser is known for its top-tier sound quality, and the Momentum 4 lives up to that reputation. The headphones are equipped with 42mm dynamic drivers that deliver an exceptionally balanced and immersive listening experience.
Sound Signature:
Rich Bass: The low-end is punchy but not overwhelming, offering a well-balanced bass response that doesn’t overshadow the mids and highs.
Detailed Mids: Vocals and instruments sound clear and natural, making the headphones ideal for genres like rock, classical, and jazz.
Crisp Highs: The treble is detailed without being too harsh, ensuring a pleasant listening experience for extended periods.
Wide Soundstage: The Momentum 4 creates a spacious and immersive soundstage, giving a sense of depth and dimension to music.
Customizable EQ: Through the Sennheiser Smart Control app, users can fine-tune the sound profile with an adjustable equalizer and pre-set sound modes.
Whether you’re listening to hi-fi tracks, streaming from Spotify, or watching movies, the Momentum 4 delivers an exceptional audio experience that rivals high-end audiophile headphones.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Transparency Mode
Noise cancellation is a major selling point for premium wireless headphones, and the Momentum 4 doesn’t disappoint. It features Adaptive ANC, which automatically adjusts the noise-canceling level based on your surroundings.
Noise Cancellation Features:
Effective ANC Performance: Blocks out ambient noises, including chatter, airplane engines, and traffic sounds.
Adaptive Noise Control: Adjusts the level of ANC dynamically based on the environment.
Transparency Mode: Allows external sounds to pass through, making it easy to have conversations without removing the headphones.
Wind Noise Reduction: Filters out wind noise, ensuring clear audio during outdoor use.
While the Sony WH-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra may have slightly better ANC, the Momentum 4 offers a close competition with its high-quality noise cancellation and natural-sounding transparency mode.
Battery Life: Industry-Leading Longevity
One of the standout features of the Momentum 4 is its incredible battery life. Sennheiser claims a staggering 60-hour battery life with ANC turned on, making it one of the longest-lasting wireless headphones in the market.
Battery Highlights:
60 Hours of Playtime: Far surpasses competitors like the Sony WH-1000XM5 (30 hours) and Bose QuietComfort Ultra (24 hours).
Fast Charging: A 10-minute charge provides up to 6 hours of playback.
USB-C Charging: Supports quick and convenient charging via USB-C.
Auto On/Off Feature: The headphones automatically turn off when removed and power back on when worn, saving battery life efficiently.
For frequent travelers or heavy users, the Momentum 4’s battery life is a game-changer, eliminating the need for frequent recharging.
Connectivity and Features
The Momentum 4 is packed with modern connectivity features, ensuring a seamless and convenient user experience.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth 5.2: Provides stable wireless connections with a range of up to 30 feet.
Multipoint Connection: Connects to two devices simultaneously, making it easy to switch between a smartphone and a laptop.
Hi-Res Audio Support: Features aptX Adaptive, AAC, and SBC codecs, ensuring high-quality wireless audio streaming.
Wired Mode: Includes a 3.5mm audio jack for wired listening when needed.
Smart Pause: Automatically pauses playback when you take off the headphones.
These features ensure that the Momentum 4 is a versatile choice for both casual users and audiophiles, whether using Bluetooth or a wired connection.
Microphone and Call Quality
The Momentum 4 comes with four beamforming microphones, designed to enhance voice clarity during phone calls and video conferencing.
Call Performance:
Crystal-Clear Voice Pickup: Ensures clear communication in quiet and noisy environments.
AI Noise Suppression: Reduces background noise for improved call quality.
Wind Noise Reduction: Makes outdoor calls more effective.
While call quality is impressive, it is not as exceptional as the Apple AirPods Max or the Bose QuietComfort Ultra, which specialize in voice clarity and microphone performance.
Bowers & Wilkins (B&W) has long been a respected name in the audio industry, known for delivering high-fidelity sound through its premium range of speakers and headphones. Among its latest offerings, the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2 ($399) stands out as a top-tier wireless noise-canceling headphone designed for audiophiles and casual listeners alike. With its refined design, high-quality audio, and effective noise cancellation, the Px7 S2 aims to compete with other premium models such as the Sony WH-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort 45. In this review, we’ll explore every aspect of the B&W Px7 S2, from its build and design to its audio performance, features, and overall value.
Design & Build Quality
The Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2 follows in the footsteps of its predecessor, the Px7, but with a refined aesthetic and improved ergonomics. The lightweight yet robust construction ensures durability while maintaining a luxurious feel.
Materials & Aesthetics
The Px7 S2 features a sleek and modern design, available in three colors: Black, Blue, and Gray. The ear cups are covered in a premium fabric material, providing a more elegant look compared to the plastic-heavy designs of many competitors. The memory foam ear cushions ensure a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions, while the headband is padded and reinforced for durability.
Comfort & Fit
Comfort is crucial for over-ear headphones, especially for long listening periods. The Px7 S2 excels in this aspect:
Lightweight (307g) compared to its predecessor
Well-balanced clamping force, preventing discomfort during long sessions
Pivoting ear cups, allowing for better adjustment
The Px7 S2 is designed for extended wear, making it an excellent choice for frequent travelers and audiophiles who enjoy long music sessions.
Sound Quality
Audio Drivers & Tuning
Bowers & Wilkins has always been about premium audio quality, and the Px7 S2 delivers on this front. Featuring custom-designed 40mm dynamic drivers, the sound profile is warm, detailed, and highly immersive.
Key Sound Features:
Rich, detailed bass response
Clear mids, perfect for vocals and instrumentals
Crisp highs without being harsh
Sound Signature
B&W has fine-tuned the Px7 S2 to cater to a wide range of listeners:
Bass: Deep and impactful, without overwhelming the mids
Mids: Well-balanced, allowing vocals and instruments to shine
Highs: Sparkling and clear, ensuring a crisp listening experience
Unlike some competitors that emphasize bass artificially, Bowers & Wilkins takes a more natural approach to sound, delivering an accurate yet engaging listening experience.
Codec Support & Connectivity
The Px7 S2 supports high-resolution audio codecs:
AptX Adaptive & AptX HD (for high-quality Bluetooth streaming)
AAC & SBC (for universal compatibility)
This ensures excellent audio quality over wireless connections, making it an ideal choice for audiophiles who demand pristine sound.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) & Transparency Mode
One of the standout features of the Px7 S2 is its Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), designed to rival the best in the market. B&W has implemented a sophisticated system that effectively reduces ambient noise without affecting audio quality.
Noise Cancelling Performance
The Px7 S2’s ANC technology utilizes multiple microphones to analyze and cancel out external sounds.
Excellent performance against low-frequency sounds (e.g., airplane noise, air conditioning)
Decent handling of mid and high frequencies (e.g., office chatter, keyboard clicks)
Minimal impact on audio quality when ANC is enabled
While it doesn’t completely eliminate external noise as effectively as Bose’s QuietComfort series, it performs exceptionally well and maintains B&W’s signature high-fidelity sound even with ANC turned on.
Transparency Mode
For users who need to stay aware of their surroundings, the Transparency Mode amplifies external sounds:
Allows natural conversations without removing the headphones
Good for walking in busy areas or listening to announcements
Easily adjustable via the B&W Music app
This makes the Px7 S2 a versatile companion for both travel and daily commuting.
Battery Life & Charging
Battery Performance
Battery life is crucial for wireless headphones, and the Px7 S2 delivers 30 hours of playtime on a single charge with ANC enabled, placing it on par with competitors.
Key Battery Features:
30 hours of battery life (with ANC enabled)
7 hours of playback with just a 15-minute charge
USB-C fast charging
For most users, this means several days of use on a single charge, making the Px7 S2 ideal for travel and daily commutes.
Controls & Features
The Px7 S2 offers both physical buttons and app-based controls for ease of use.
Physical Controls
Unlike many competitors shifting to touch controls, Bowers & Wilkins retains physical buttons for reliability:
Power/Bluetooth pairing button
Volume up/down buttons
Multi-function button (play/pause, skip tracks, answer calls)
ANC/Transparency mode toggle
These buttons are intuitive and well-placed, ensuring easy operation even without looking.
Bowers & Wilkins Music App
The B&W Music app provides additional customization options:
EQ adjustments to fine-tune sound preferences
Noise cancellation settings
Battery level monitoring
Firmware updates
While not as feature-rich as some competitors, the app enhances the overall user experience.
Call Quality & Microphone Performance
The Px7 S2 features an improved microphone array for crystal-clear voice calls. The six-microphone setup ensures good voice clarity even in noisy environments:
Clear voice pickup for phone and video calls
Effective noise suppression for background sounds
Stable connectivity with minimal dropouts
While not as industry-leading as some dedicated headsets, it performs well for everyday use.
Bowers & Wilkins (B&W) has long been a respected name in the audio industry, known for delivering high-fidelity sound through its premium range of speakers and headphones. Among its latest offerings, the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2 ($399) stands out as a top-tier wireless noise-canceling headphone designed for audiophiles and casual listeners alike. With its refined design, high-quality audio, and effective noise cancellation, the Px7 S2 aims to compete with other premium models such as the Sony WH-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort 45. In this review, we’ll explore every aspect of the B&W Px7 S2, from its build and design to its audio performance, features, and overall value.
Design & Build Quality
The Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2 follows in the footsteps of its predecessor, the Px7, but with a refined aesthetic and improved ergonomics. The lightweight yet robust construction ensures durability while maintaining a luxurious feel.
Materials & Aesthetics
The Px7 S2 features a sleek and modern design, available in three colors: Black, Blue, and Gray. The ear cups are covered in a premium fabric material, providing a more elegant look compared to the plastic-heavy designs of many competitors. The memory foam ear cushions ensure a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions, while the headband is padded and reinforced for durability.
Comfort & Fit
Comfort is crucial for over-ear headphones, especially for long listening periods. The Px7 S2 excels in this aspect:
Lightweight (307g) compared to its predecessor
Well-balanced clamping force, preventing discomfort during long sessions
Pivoting ear cups, allowing for better adjustment
The Px7 S2 is designed for extended wear, making it an excellent choice for frequent travelers and audiophiles who enjoy long music sessions.
Sound Quality
Audio Drivers & Tuning
Bowers & Wilkins has always been about premium audio quality, and the Px7 S2 delivers on this front. Featuring custom-designed 40mm dynamic drivers, the sound profile is warm, detailed, and highly immersive.
Key Sound Features:
Rich, detailed bass response
Clear mids, perfect for vocals and instrumentals
Crisp highs without being harsh
Sound Signature
B&W has fine-tuned the Px7 S2 to cater to a wide range of listeners:
Bass: Deep and impactful, without overwhelming the mids
Mids: Well-balanced, allowing vocals and instruments to shine
Highs: Sparkling and clear, ensuring a crisp listening experience
Unlike some competitors that emphasize bass artificially, Bowers & Wilkins takes a more natural approach to sound, delivering an accurate yet engaging listening experience.
Codec Support & Connectivity
The Px7 S2 supports high-resolution audio codecs:
AptX Adaptive & AptX HD (for high-quality Bluetooth streaming)
AAC & SBC (for universal compatibility)
This ensures excellent audio quality over wireless connections, making it an ideal choice for audiophiles who demand pristine sound.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) & Transparency Mode
One of the standout features of the Px7 S2 is its Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), designed to rival the best in the market. B&W has implemented a sophisticated system that effectively reduces ambient noise without affecting audio quality.
Noise Cancelling Performance
The Px7 S2’s ANC technology utilizes multiple microphones to analyze and cancel out external sounds.
Excellent performance against low-frequency sounds (e.g., airplane noise, air conditioning)
Decent handling of mid and high frequencies (e.g., office chatter, keyboard clicks)
Minimal impact on audio quality when ANC is enabled
While it doesn’t completely eliminate external noise as effectively as Bose’s QuietComfort series, it performs exceptionally well and maintains B&W’s signature high-fidelity sound even with ANC turned on.
Transparency Mode
For users who need to stay aware of their surroundings, the Transparency Mode amplifies external sounds:
Allows natural conversations without removing the headphones
Good for walking in busy areas or listening to announcements
Easily adjustable via the B&W Music app
This makes the Px7 S2 a versatile companion for both travel and daily commuting.
Battery Life & Charging
Battery Performance
Battery life is crucial for wireless headphones, and the Px7 S2 delivers 30 hours of playtime on a single charge with ANC enabled, placing it on par with competitors.
Key Battery Features:
30 hours of battery life (with ANC enabled)
7 hours of playback with just a 15-minute charge
USB-C fast charging
For most users, this means several days of use on a single charge, making the Px7 S2 ideal for travel and daily commutes.
Controls & Features
The Px7 S2 offers both physical buttons and app-based controls for ease of use.
Physical Controls
Unlike many competitors shifting to touch controls, Bowers & Wilkins retains physical buttons for reliability:
Power/Bluetooth pairing button
Volume up/down buttons
Multi-function button (play/pause, skip tracks, answer calls)
ANC/Transparency mode toggle
These buttons are intuitive and well-placed, ensuring easy operation even without looking.
Bowers & Wilkins Music App
The B&W Music app provides additional customization options:
EQ adjustments to fine-tune sound preferences
Noise cancellation settings
Battery level monitoring
Firmware updates
While not as feature-rich as some competitors, the app enhances the overall user experience.
Call Quality & Microphone Performance
The Px7 S2 features an improved microphone array for crystal-clear voice calls. The six-microphone setup ensures good voice clarity even in noisy environments:
Clear voice pickup for phone and video calls
Effective noise suppression for background sounds
Stable connectivity with minimal dropouts
While not as industry-leading as some dedicated headsets, it performs well for everyday use.
Bowers & Wilkins (B&W) has long been a respected name in the audio industry, known for delivering high-fidelity sound through its premium range of speakers and headphones. Among its latest offerings, the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2 ($399) stands out as a top-tier wireless noise-canceling headphone designed for audiophiles and casual listeners alike. With its refined design, high-quality audio, and effective noise cancellation, the Px7 S2 aims to compete with other premium models such as the Sony WH-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort 45. In this review, we’ll explore every aspect of the B&W Px7 S2, from its build and design to its audio performance, features, and overall value.
Design & Build Quality
The Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2 follows in the footsteps of its predecessor, the Px7, but with a refined aesthetic and improved ergonomics. The lightweight yet robust construction ensures durability while maintaining a luxurious feel.
Materials & Aesthetics
The Px7 S2 features a sleek and modern design, available in three colors: Black, Blue, and Gray. The ear cups are covered in a premium fabric material, providing a more elegant look compared to the plastic-heavy designs of many competitors. The memory foam ear cushions ensure a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions, while the headband is padded and reinforced for durability.
Comfort & Fit
Comfort is crucial for over-ear headphones, especially for long listening periods. The Px7 S2 excels in this aspect:
Lightweight (307g) compared to its predecessor
Well-balanced clamping force, preventing discomfort during long sessions
Pivoting ear cups, allowing for better adjustment
The Px7 S2 is designed for extended wear, making it an excellent choice for frequent travelers and audiophiles who enjoy long music sessions.
Sound Quality
Audio Drivers & Tuning
Bowers & Wilkins has always been about premium audio quality, and the Px7 S2 delivers on this front. Featuring custom-designed 40mm dynamic drivers, the sound profile is warm, detailed, and highly immersive.
Key Sound Features:
Rich, detailed bass response
Clear mids, perfect for vocals and instrumentals
Crisp highs without being harsh
Sound Signature
B&W has fine-tuned the Px7 S2 to cater to a wide range of listeners:
Bass: Deep and impactful, without overwhelming the mids
Mids: Well-balanced, allowing vocals and instruments to shine
Highs: Sparkling and clear, ensuring a crisp listening experience
Unlike some competitors that emphasize bass artificially, Bowers & Wilkins takes a more natural approach to sound, delivering an accurate yet engaging listening experience.
Codec Support & Connectivity
The Px7 S2 supports high-resolution audio codecs:
AptX Adaptive & AptX HD (for high-quality Bluetooth streaming)
AAC & SBC (for universal compatibility)
This ensures excellent audio quality over wireless connections, making it an ideal choice for audiophiles who demand pristine sound.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) & Transparency Mode
One of the standout features of the Px7 S2 is its Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), designed to rival the best in the market. B&W has implemented a sophisticated system that effectively reduces ambient noise without affecting audio quality.
Noise Cancelling Performance
The Px7 S2’s ANC technology utilizes multiple microphones to analyze and cancel out external sounds.
Excellent performance against low-frequency sounds (e.g., airplane noise, air conditioning)
Decent handling of mid and high frequencies (e.g., office chatter, keyboard clicks)
Minimal impact on audio quality when ANC is enabled
While it doesn’t completely eliminate external noise as effectively as Bose’s QuietComfort series, it performs exceptionally well and maintains B&W’s signature high-fidelity sound even with ANC turned on.
Transparency Mode
For users who need to stay aware of their surroundings, the Transparency Mode amplifies external sounds:
Allows natural conversations without removing the headphones
Good for walking in busy areas or listening to announcements
Easily adjustable via the B&W Music app
This makes the Px7 S2 a versatile companion for both travel and daily commuting.
Battery Life & Charging
Battery Performance
Battery life is crucial for wireless headphones, and the Px7 S2 delivers 30 hours of playtime on a single charge with ANC enabled, placing it on par with competitors.
Key Battery Features:
30 hours of battery life (with ANC enabled)
7 hours of playback with just a 15-minute charge
USB-C fast charging
For most users, this means several days of use on a single charge, making the Px7 S2 ideal for travel and daily commutes.
Controls & Features
The Px7 S2 offers both physical buttons and app-based controls for ease of use.
Physical Controls
Unlike many competitors shifting to touch controls, Bowers & Wilkins retains physical buttons for reliability:
Power/Bluetooth pairing button
Volume up/down buttons
Multi-function button (play/pause, skip tracks, answer calls)
ANC/Transparency mode toggle
These buttons are intuitive and well-placed, ensuring easy operation even without looking.
Bowers & Wilkins Music App
The B&W Music app provides additional customization options:
EQ adjustments to fine-tune sound preferences
Noise cancellation settings
Battery level monitoring
Firmware updates
While not as feature-rich as some competitors, the app enhances the overall user experience.
Call Quality & Microphone Performance
The Px7 S2 features an improved microphone array for crystal-clear voice calls. The six-microphone setup ensures good voice clarity even in noisy environments:
Clear voice pickup for phone and video calls
Effective noise suppression for background sounds
Stable connectivity with minimal dropouts
While not as industry-leading as some dedicated headsets, it performs well for everyday use.
Bowers & Wilkins (B&W) has long been a respected name in the audio industry, known for delivering high-fidelity sound through its premium range of speakers and headphones. Among its latest offerings, the Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2 ($399) stands out as a top-tier wireless noise-canceling headphone designed for audiophiles and casual listeners alike. With its refined design, high-quality audio, and effective noise cancellation, the Px7 S2 aims to compete with other premium models such as the Sony WH-1000XM5 and Bose QuietComfort 45. In this review, we’ll explore every aspect of the B&W Px7 S2, from its build and design to its audio performance, features, and overall value.
Design & Build Quality
The Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2 follows in the footsteps of its predecessor, the Px7, but with a refined aesthetic and improved ergonomics. The lightweight yet robust construction ensures durability while maintaining a luxurious feel.
Materials & Aesthetics
The Px7 S2 features a sleek and modern design, available in three colors: Black, Blue, and Gray. The ear cups are covered in a premium fabric material, providing a more elegant look compared to the plastic-heavy designs of many competitors. The memory foam ear cushions ensure a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions, while the headband is padded and reinforced for durability.
Comfort & Fit
Comfort is crucial for over-ear headphones, especially for long listening periods. The Px7 S2 excels in this aspect:
Lightweight (307g) compared to its predecessor
Well-balanced clamping force, preventing discomfort during long sessions
Pivoting ear cups, allowing for better adjustment
The Px7 S2 is designed for extended wear, making it an excellent choice for frequent travelers and audiophiles who enjoy long music sessions.
Sound Quality
Audio Drivers & Tuning
Bowers & Wilkins has always been about premium audio quality, and the Px7 S2 delivers on this front. Featuring custom-designed 40mm dynamic drivers, the sound profile is warm, detailed, and highly immersive.
Key Sound Features:
Rich, detailed bass response
Clear mids, perfect for vocals and instrumentals
Crisp highs without being harsh
Sound Signature
B&W has fine-tuned the Px7 S2 to cater to a wide range of listeners:
Bass: Deep and impactful, without overwhelming the mids
Mids: Well-balanced, allowing vocals and instruments to shine
Highs: Sparkling and clear, ensuring a crisp listening experience
Unlike some competitors that emphasize bass artificially, Bowers & Wilkins takes a more natural approach to sound, delivering an accurate yet engaging listening experience.
Codec Support & Connectivity
The Px7 S2 supports high-resolution audio codecs:
AptX Adaptive & AptX HD (for high-quality Bluetooth streaming)
AAC & SBC (for universal compatibility)
This ensures excellent audio quality over wireless connections, making it an ideal choice for audiophiles who demand pristine sound.
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) & Transparency Mode
One of the standout features of the Px7 S2 is its Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), designed to rival the best in the market. B&W has implemented a sophisticated system that effectively reduces ambient noise without affecting audio quality.
Noise Cancelling Performance
The Px7 S2’s ANC technology utilizes multiple microphones to analyze and cancel out external sounds.
Excellent performance against low-frequency sounds (e.g., airplane noise, air conditioning)
Decent handling of mid and high frequencies (e.g., office chatter, keyboard clicks)
Minimal impact on audio quality when ANC is enabled
While it doesn’t completely eliminate external noise as effectively as Bose’s QuietComfort series, it performs exceptionally well and maintains B&W’s signature high-fidelity sound even with ANC turned on.
Transparency Mode
For users who need to stay aware of their surroundings, the Transparency Mode amplifies external sounds:
Allows natural conversations without removing the headphones
Good for walking in busy areas or listening to announcements
Easily adjustable via the B&W Music app
This makes the Px7 S2 a versatile companion for both travel and daily commuting.
Battery Life & Charging
Battery Performance
Battery life is crucial for wireless headphones, and the Px7 S2 delivers 30 hours of playtime on a single charge with ANC enabled, placing it on par with competitors.
Key Battery Features:
30 hours of battery life (with ANC enabled)
7 hours of playback with just a 15-minute charge
USB-C fast charging
For most users, this means several days of use on a single charge, making the Px7 S2 ideal for travel and daily commutes.
Controls & Features
The Px7 S2 offers both physical buttons and app-based controls for ease of use.
Physical Controls
Unlike many competitors shifting to touch controls, Bowers & Wilkins retains physical buttons for reliability:
Power/Bluetooth pairing button
Volume up/down buttons
Multi-function button (play/pause, skip tracks, answer calls)
ANC/Transparency mode toggle
These buttons are intuitive and well-placed, ensuring easy operation even without looking.
Bowers & Wilkins Music App
The B&W Music app provides additional customization options:
EQ adjustments to fine-tune sound preferences
Noise cancellation settings
Battery level monitoring
Firmware updates
While not as feature-rich as some competitors, the app enhances the overall user experience.
Call Quality & Microphone Performance
The Px7 S2 features an improved microphone array for crystal-clear voice calls. The six-microphone setup ensures good voice clarity even in noisy environments:
Clear voice pickup for phone and video calls
Effective noise suppression for background sounds
Stable connectivity with minimal dropouts
While not as industry-leading as some dedicated headsets, it performs well for everyday use.