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In a world where music has become an integral part of our daily lives, the need for high-quality headphones has never been greater. Bowers & Wilkins, a British audio equipment company renowned for its premium speakers and headphones, has recently launched the PX7 headphones. With the PX7, Bowers & Wilkins promises a stunning audio experience that combines cutting-edge technology, sleek design, and exceptional comfort. In this review, we will delve into the features and performance of the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 headphones and provide an honest assessment of their worthiness for your consideration.
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 product information:
History
Bowers & Wilkins, a British company founded by John Bowers in 1966, is known for producing high-quality audio equipment, including speakers, headphones, and home theater systems. The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 is one of the company’s over-ear headphone models, offering a blend of comfort, audio quality, and active noise cancellation (ANC). Here’s a brief history of the origin and creation of these headphones:
- Bowers & Wilkins’ Early Years: Bowers & Wilkins initially focused on producing loudspeakers, with a dedication to creating innovative designs and delivering exceptional sound quality. Over the years, the company expanded its product lineup to include various audio equipment, such as home theater systems and headphones.
- Entry into Headphones Market: In 2010, Bowers & Wilkins entered the headphones market with the introduction of the P5, an on-ear model that aimed to provide users with the same high-quality audio experience the company was known for in its speaker systems. The P5 gained popularity for its combination of luxurious design, comfort, and sound quality.
- Focus on Noise Cancellation: As the demand for noise-canceling headphones grew, Bowers & Wilkins began incorporating this feature into its headphone lineup. The company aimed to create headphones that combined its legendary sound quality with effective noise cancellation, allowing users to enjoy an immersive listening experience in various environments.
- Bowers & Wilkins PX Series: In 2017, Bowers & Wilkins introduced the PX series, a new line of headphones designed to offer adaptive noise cancellation, exceptional sound quality, and comfort. The original Bowers & Wilkins PX combined the company’s audio expertise with innovative noise-canceling technology, quickly gaining popularity among audiophiles and casual listeners alike.
- Bowers & Wilkins PX7: In 2019, Bowers & Wilkins unveiled the PX7, building upon the success of the original PX model. The PX7 featured improved active noise cancellation, 43.6mm custom drivers for enhanced audio quality, and a comfortable design with memory foam ear cushions. The headphones also incorporated a woven carbon fiber composite material in the headband, making them lightweight and durable. The PX7 offered up to 30 hours of battery life and supported fast charging, providing six hours of playback with just a 15-minute charge.
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 headphones showcase the company’s commitment to providing high-quality audio products that cater to the diverse needs of users. By combining its expertise in audio technology with advanced noise cancellation and a focus on comfort and durability, Bowers & Wilkins has created a versatile headphone model that appeals to both casual listeners and audiophiles alike.
Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Year of manufacture | 2020 |
| Company | Bowers & Wilkins |
| Official website | https://www.bowerswilkins.com/ |
| Fit Type | Over-ear |
| Item Dimensions | 8.1 x 6.9 x 3.7 inches |
| Item Weight | 0.81 lbs |
| Special Features | Adaptive noise cancellation, Ambient pass-through, Voice assistant integration, Wear detection, Smart pause, 3.5mm audio jack |
| Driver size | 43.6mm |
| Frequency response | 10Hz – 30kHz |
| Impedance | 20 ohms |
| Bluetooth version | 5.0 |
| Bluetooth range | Up to 33 feet (10 meters) |
| ANC modes | 3 (Low, High, and Auto) |
| Audio codec | aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, aptX Classic, AAC, SBC |
| Battery life | Up to 30 hours (with ANC), up to 45 hours (without ANC) |
| Charging time | 3 hours |
| Quick charging | 15 minutes for 6 hours of playback |
| Controls | Touch controls, Voice assistant button |
| Price | $349.99 |
What is included in the delivery set?
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 headphones come with the following items in the delivery set:
- Bowers & Wilkins PX7 headphones
- 1.2m USB-C to USB-A cable for charging and firmware updates
- 1.2m 3.5mm audio cable for wired listening
- Soft carrying case for storage and transport
- Quick start guide and documentation
*Please note that the exact contents of the delivery set may vary depending on the region and retailer.
What about design, materials, assembly?
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 headphones feature a sleek and modern design with a sturdy and durable construction. The earcups and headband are made of a combination of high-quality materials, including carbon fiber composite arms, soft leather padding, and ballistic nylon fabric. The earcups are attached to the headband via a metal hinge, which allows for a comfortable and secure fit.
The assembly of the headphones is done with great attention to detail, resulting in a premium and luxurious look and feel. The earcups can be swiveled and folded flat for easy storage and transport, and the earpads are removable and replaceable for easy maintenance. The touch controls on the earcups are seamlessly integrated into the design and offer intuitive and responsive operation.
Overall, the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 headphones are designed with both form and function in mind, using high-quality materials and meticulous assembly to provide a premium audio experience.
What about ergonomics and usability Bowers & Wilkins PX7?
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 headphones are designed with ergonomics and usability in mind, offering a comfortable and intuitive user experience. The over-ear design of the earcups provides a secure and comfortable fit, even during extended listening sessions. The earpads are made of soft memory foam and covered with luxurious leather, which provides excellent noise isolation and helps to prevent sound leakage.
The touch controls on the earcups are easy to use and offer a range of functionalities, including play/pause, track skipping, volume control, and ANC mode selection. The headphones also feature wear detection, which automatically pauses the music when you take off the headphones and resumes playback when you put them back on. This feature is particularly useful when you need to briefly interrupt your listening without having to manually pause and resume the music.
The headphones also offer voice assistant integration, allowing you to access your favorite voice assistant with a simple button press. The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 headphones also come with a 3.5mm audio cable, which allows for wired listening when Bluetooth connectivity is not available.
Overall, the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 headphones are designed with usability and convenience in mind, offering a comfortable and intuitive listening experience with a range of features that cater to the needs of modern listeners.
What about connection, control and software?
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 headphones offer a variety of connection options, controls, and software features to provide a versatile and customizable listening experience.
The headphones feature Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, which provides a stable and seamless connection to your devices. They also support multiple Bluetooth codecs, including aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, aptX Classic, AAC, and SBC, which ensures that you can enjoy high-quality audio regardless of your device or streaming service. The Bluetooth range is up to 33 feet (10 meters), providing plenty of room for movement while listening to your music.
The touch controls on the earcups provide easy access to a range of functions, including music playback, volume control, ANC mode selection, and voice assistant integration. The controls are intuitive and responsive, allowing you to adjust the headphones’ settings without having to take them off.
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 headphones also come with a companion app called Bowers & Wilkins Headphones, which allows you to customize the headphones’ settings to your preferences. The app offers a range of features, including an equalizer, firmware updates, and the ability to toggle the ambient pass-through mode. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices.
Overall, the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 headphones offer a range of connection options, controls, and software features that provide a versatile and customizable listening experience.
How’s the sound quality?
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 headphones offer an exceptional sound quality that is clear, balanced, and immersive. The headphones feature large 43.6mm drivers that provide a wide frequency response range of 10Hz to 30kHz, which ensures that you can hear every detail of your music.
The headphones also feature adaptive noise cancellation (ANC) technology, which intelligently analyzes and blocks out external noise to create a more immersive listening experience. The ANC has three different modes – low, high, and auto – which provide varying levels of noise cancellation depending on your surroundings.
The headphones support multiple Bluetooth codecs, including aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, aptX Classic, AAC, and SBC, which ensures that you can enjoy high-quality audio regardless of your device or streaming service. The audio quality is consistent across all codecs, providing a balanced and clear soundstage that delivers crisp highs, detailed mids, and deep, punchy bass.
Overall, the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 headphones deliver exceptional sound quality that is clear, balanced, and immersive, making them a great choice for audiophiles and music lovers alike.
What about the energy efficiency and battery life?
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 headphones are designed to be energy-efficient and offer an impressive battery life. The headphones feature a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that provides up to 30 hours of listening time with ANC turned on and up to 45 hours with ANC turned off. This means that you can listen to your music all day without worrying about running out of battery.
The headphones also feature quick charging, which allows you to get up to 6 hours of playback time with just 15 minutes of charging. The full charging time is around 3 hours, and you can charge the headphones via the included USB-C to USB-A cable.
The headphones also feature smart power management, which helps to optimize the battery life by automatically turning off the headphones when they are not in use. The headphones also feature wear detection, which automatically pauses the music when you take off the headphones and resumes playback when you put them back on. These features help to extend the battery life and ensure that you can enjoy your music for longer.
Overall, the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 headphones offer impressive energy efficiency and battery life, making them a great choice for anyone looking for headphones that can keep up with their busy lifestyle.
Comparison & Review:
What are similar headphones in features and cost?
Here are five similar headphones in features and cost to the Bowers & Wilkins PX7:
- Sony WH-1000XM4: These headphones offer similar features to the PX7, including adaptive noise cancellation, touch controls, and voice assistant integration. They also offer a long battery life of up to 30 hours and a similar price point.
- Bose QuietComfort 35 II: These headphones are known for their exceptional noise cancellation and comfortable fit, and they offer a range of features including touch controls and voice assistant integration. They have a similar price point to the PX7 and a battery life of up to 20 hours.
- Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless: These headphones offer a sleek design and a range of features, including touch controls and voice assistant integration. They also offer noise cancellation and a long battery life of up to 17 hours. They are priced similarly to the PX7.
- Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H9: These headphones offer a premium design and a range of features, including touch controls and noise cancellation. They have a long battery life of up to 25 hours and a similar price point to the PX7.
Compare with similar items
| Specification | Bowers & Wilkins PX7 | Sony WH-1000XM4 | Bose QuietComfort 35 II |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year of manufacture | 2020 | 2020 | 2017 |
| Company | Bowers & Wilkins | Sony | Bose |
| Official website | https://www.bowerswilkins.com/ | https://www.sony.com/ | https://www.bose.com/ |
| Fit Type | Over-ear | Over-ear | Over-ear |
| Item Dimensions | 8.1 x 6.9 x 3.7 inches | 7.27 x 2.94 x 9.94 inches | 3.2 x 6.7 x 7.1 inches |
| Item Weight | 0.81 lbs | 0.63 lbs | 0.68 lbs |
| Special Features | Adaptive noise cancellation, Ambient pass-through, Voice assistant integration, Wear detection, Smart pause, 3.5mm audio jack | Adaptive noise cancellation, Voice assistant integration, Speak-to-chat, Multi-point connectivity, Wear detection | Active noise cancellation, Voice assistant integration, Audio sharing |
| Driver size | 43.6mm | 40mm | Not specified |
| Frequency response | 10Hz – 30kHz | 4Hz – 40kHz | 20Hz – 20kHz |
| Impedance | 20 ohms | 47 ohms | Not specified |
| Bluetooth version | 5.0 | 5.0 | 4.1 |
| Bluetooth range | Up to 33 feet (10 meters) | Up to 30 feet (10 meters) | Up to 33 feet (10 meters) |
| ANC modes | 3 (Low, High, and Auto) | 2 (Low, High) | 3 (Low, High, Off) |
| Audio codec | aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, aptX Classic, AAC, SBC | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, LDAC | SBC, AAC |
| Battery life | Up to 30 hours (with ANC), up to 45 hours (without ANC) | Up to 30 hours (with ANC), up to 38 hours (without ANC) | Up to 20 hours (with ANC), up to 40 hours (without ANC) |
| Charging time | 3 hours | 3 hours | 2.25 hours |
| Quick charging | 15 minutes for 6 hours of playback | 10 minutes for 5 hours of playback | 15 minutes for 2.5 hours of playback |
| Controls | Touch controls, Voice assistant button | Touch controls, Voice assistant button | Buttons, Voice assistant button |
| Price | $349.99 | $349.99 | $299.99 |
| Specification | Bowers & Wilkins PX7 | Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless | Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H9 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year of manufacture | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 |
| Company | Bowers & Wilkins | Sennheiser | Bang & Olufsen |
| Official website | https://www.bowerswilkins.com/ | https://en-us.sennheiser.com/ | https://www.bang-olufsen.com/ |
| Fit Type | Over-ear | Over-ear | Over-ear |
| Item Dimensions | 8.1 x 6.9 x 3.7 inches | 7.7 x 6.9 x 2.8 inches | 7.7 x 7.6 x 1.9 inches |
| Item Weight | 0.81 lbs | 0.64 lbs | 0.77 lbs |
| Special Features | Adaptive noise cancellation, Ambient pass-through, Voice assistant integration, Wear detection, Smart pause, 3.5mm audio jack | Active noise cancellation, Transparent hearing, Tile integration, Voice assistant integration | Active noise cancellation, Transparency mode, Voice assistant integration |
| Driver size | 43.6mm | Not specified | 40mm |
| Frequency response | 10Hz – 30kHz | 6Hz – 22kHz | 20Hz – 22kHz |
| Impedance | 20 ohms | Not specified | Not specified |
| Bluetooth version | 5.0 | 5.0 | 4.2 |
| Bluetooth range | Up to 33 feet (10 meters) | Up to 33 feet (10 meters) | Up to 121 feet (37 meters) |
| ANC modes | 3 (Low, High, and Auto) | 3 (Max, Anti-Wind, Anti-Pressure) | 2 (Quiet, Transparency) |
| Audio codec | aptX Adaptive, aptX HD, aptX Classic, AAC, SBC | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX Low Latency, aptX Adaptive | SBC, AAC, aptX |
| Battery life | Up to 30 hours (with ANC), up to 45 hours (without ANC) | Up to 17 hours (with ANC) | Up to 25 hours (with ANC) |
| Charging time | 3 hours | 3 hours | 2.5 hours |
| Quick charging | 15 minutes for 6 hours of playback | Not specified | 3 hours for 5 hours of playback |
| Controls | Touch controls, Voice assistant button | Touch controls, Physical buttons, Voice assistant button | Touch controls, Physical buttons, Voice assistant button |
| Price | $349.99 | $399.95 | $500.00 |
How do Bowers & Wilkins PX7 users describe their experience with these headphones?
Overall, Bowers & Wilkins PX7 users have had positive experiences with these headphones. Here are some common themes in user reviews:
- Sound quality: Many users have praised the sound quality of the PX7, noting that the headphones offer clear, detailed sound and powerful bass.
- Comfort: Users have found the headphones to be comfortable to wear for extended periods of time, thanks to the soft earcups and padded headband.
- Noise cancellation: The PX7’s noise cancellation feature has received praise from many users, who have found that it effectively blocks out outside noise and allows them to focus on their music.
- Build quality: Users have noted that the headphones feel well-built and durable, with a sturdy metal frame and high-quality materials.
- Design: Many users have complimented the stylish design of the headphones, noting that they look sleek and modern.
- Controls: The touch controls on the PX7 have received mixed reviews, with some users finding them intuitive and easy to use, while others have had difficulty getting them to work properly.
- Battery life: Users have generally been satisfied with the battery life of the PX7, which can last up to 30 hours with ANC turned on.
Overall, users have had a positive experience with the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 headphones, with many praising the sound quality, comfort, and noise cancellation performance of the headphones.
Conclusions
The Bowers & Wilkins PX7 are over-ear wireless headphones that were released in 2020. They feature advanced noise-cancellation technology and a 43.6mm driver that produces high-quality sound. The headphones are designed with comfort in mind, featuring soft earcups and a padded headband. They also offer a range of special features, including ambient pass-through, wear detection, and smart pause. The PX7 has a battery life of up to 30 hours with ANC turned on and can be fully charged in just 3 hours. Overall, the Bowers & Wilkins PX7 headphones are a high-quality and stylish option for those looking for a premium listening experience.
Our Review
Bowers & Wilkins PX7 Basic questions, basic answers:
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What cars use Bowers and Wilkins?
A little off the subject of headphones, but let’s respond.
Bowers & Wilkins audio systems are used by several high-end car manufacturers, including:
1. BMW – Bowers & Wilkins audio systems are available in select models of BMW cars, such as the 7 Series, 8 Series, and X7.
2. Volvo – Bowers & Wilkins is the exclusive audio partner for Volvo, and their audio systems are available in all current models.
3. McLaren – Bowers & Wilkins audio systems are available as an option in select McLaren supercars, such as the 570S and 720S.
4. Maserati – Bowers & Wilkins audio systems are available in select models of Maserati cars, such as the Quattroporte and Levante.
5. Jaguar – Bowers & Wilkins audio systems are available in select models of Jaguar cars, such as the F-PACE, XE, and XF.
6. Land Rover – Bowers & Wilkins audio systems are available as an option in select Land Rover models, such as the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport. -
Are Bowers & Wilkins British?
Yes, Bowers & Wilkins is a British company. The company was founded in Worthing, West Sussex, England in 1966 by John Bowers and Peter Hayward, and it is still headquartered in the UK today. Bowers & Wilkins is known for its high-end audio products, including speakers, headphones, and home audio systems, and it has received numerous awards and accolades for its innovative designs and superior sound quality.
Last Updated on September 9, 2023
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2 comments
Embark with me on an auditory journey, where the PX7s, crafted by Bowers & Wilkins, emerge not merely as headphones but as sculptors of an immersive sonic landscape.
From the vantage point of a music producer, historically tethered to the revered ATH-M50Xs in the studio, I sought a wireless, ANC-enabled counterpart for my mobile musical endeavors. My quest led me through a myriad of contenders, yet here resides my synthesis.
The PX7s serenade the soul with an impeccably accurate and voluptuous low end; a rounded, punchy, and clearly defined bass that effortlessly usurps competitors, such as the much-hyped Sony XM4s, whose low frequencies seemed, to my ears, plastic and artificially inflated. My erstwhile companion, the wired Bose QC-25, while competent, pales in comparison to the robust and vibrant bass of the PX7s.
As we ascend to the higher frequency spectrum, the PX7s continue to enchant with detailed and segregated sound, positioning hi-hats and upper frequency instruments with meticulous precision within the mix. A gentle caress to the ears, devoid of the harshness found in some of its overly crisp competitors.
The mids, while exact, could perhaps entertain a subtle elevation in the central range. A minor quibble from a producer not enamored with saturated mids. The PX7s, with their precise low-mid reproduction, effortlessly sidestep the muddiness encountered with other brands.
Venturing into the soundstage, it is expansive, enveloping, and brilliantly balanced, presumably a testament to those formidable 43 or 44mm drivers.
Foregoing an extensive diatribe on specifications, let’s touch upon controls. A delight for those, like myself, who prefer tactile feedback over gesture controls. The buttons are intuitive, though initial encounters did see some accidental presses during removal.
Regarding ANC, it is competent, though not revolutionary. The XM4s and Bose 700s exhibit superior performance, particularly with lower “hum” frequencies. Nevertheless, the PX7s avoid the ANC ear pressure often felt with the Bose, providing a more comfortable listening experience.
Battery life, reputedly around 30 hours, is so enduring that it scarcely warrants concern. Note: a depleted battery negates the wired audio connection functionality.
The accompanying app, while basic, facilitates effortless device connection and switching between two simultaneously connected devices. A slight hiccup: persistent sound issues (clicks and pops) when pausing and resuming broadcasts or music streaming on certain devices, such as my iMac or Sony smart TV, warrant attention from B&W.
While some might covet an equalizer within the app, the stellar sound quality of the PX7s renders it superfluous for me, unless one frequently listens to poorly mixed tracks.
Concluding with build quality, the PX7s are a masterpiece of design. My choice, the black carbon special edition, boasts carbon fibre, high-quality (and replaceable) ear cushions, metal earcups, and a distinct, robust aesthetic. Their competitors seem plastic and cheap by comparison. The accompanying case is not only visually appealing but also robustly protective.
For the 249 EUR price tag, the PX7s delivered an unparalleled audio experience, and without hesitation, I would procure them again. For in this price range, no alternative even grazes the hem of its acoustic brilliance.
Wow. Thank you for such an extensive review.