With the arrival of B&W PX8 Royal Burgundy, the PX8 headphones benefit from a modified audio setting for ultra-fast response across the entire frequency range and incredibly low distortion, for an even richer result in terms of sound details, dynamics and realism, all for ever more naturalness.
Bowers & Wilkins PX8, adaptive active noise reduction and design
The rest of the specifications remain unchanged, including the same noise reduction platform, with a total of four dedicated microphones: two measure the output of the speakers, two react to the ambient environment of the outside world. Voice recording is still provided via two additional microphones.
In terms of design, we observe a cast aluminum arm structure with a shiny diamond-cut edge on each elliptical plate of the brand logo. Ear cups, memory foam cushions and headband are trimmed in Nappa leather. Two other finishes are therefore still available: black leather or beige leather.
Bowers & Wilkins PX8, the acoustic package
The audio quality ensured by generous 40 mm cellulose fiber drivers developed by the team already responsible for the 800 Series Diamond speakers (which equip the Abbey Road studios) is still required. The cone-shaped drivers are inspired by the carbon dome tweeters used in Bowers & Wilkins' 700 Series loudspeaker range, for ultra-fast response and exceptionally low distortion across the entire frequency range.
Bowers & Wilkins PX8, Bluetooth APT-X Adaptive
APT‑X Adaptive Bluetooth technology with low latency (less than 80 ms) is still available, characterized by a variable bandwidth between 280 kbps and 480 kbps. The APT-X algorithms have been revised to offer superior sound quality to those of APT-X HD, for audiophile-style listening. The 24-bit Hi-Res Audio certification is also required, thanks to the powerful onboard DSP. Note the USB-C and 3.5mm analog cable connection, included in the carrying case.
Bowers & Wilkins PX8, autonomy
The battery life is 30 hours and a quick charge function allows up to 7 hours of listening time for just 15 minutes of charging. Charging is associated with a USB-C connector, which can also be used for a wired connection.
Finally, the launch of the B&W PX8 series last year was accompanied by an update to the Bowers & Wilkins Music application, allowing PX8 users to stream the music of their choice from the Deezer, Qobuz and Tidal platforms, directly from their mobile device.
Available immediately. Indicative price: 699 euros.
Reminder of the key features of the Bowers & Wilkins PX8:
• Type: closed dynamic over-ear headphones
• Speaker(s): 40 mm full-range diaphragm
• Answer in frequency: 10 Hz-30 kHz
• Harmonic distortion rate (THD): 0.1%
• Impedance: 33 ohms
• Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.2
• Bluetooth profiles supported: A2DP/AVRCP/HFP/HSP
• Codecs: SBC/AAC/APT-X HD/APT-X Adaptive
• Certification: Hi-Res Audio
• Functions: Ambient Pass- Trough and Wear Sensors
• Active noise reduction: yes, adaptive mode selected automatically depending on ambient noise
• Battery life: 30 hours with active noise reduction, 7 hours with 15 minutes of charging
• Charging time: 2 hours• Other(s): USB-C cables
• Weight: 320 g
